EGW Writings2 Timothy 4

Maranatha

Judgment at the Second Advent, October 11

Mar 292.1

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom. 2 Timothy 4:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 1a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 1a, 1890, par. 26

God demands homage which He has not received from Elder Daniels—homage in words, in actions. Let him remember that he is to give an account to God, who will “judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom.” [2 Timothy 4:1.] If our convictions of duty are honestly met, faithfulness becomes the great law of life, impressing, improving and molding every principle and phase of character.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 82, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, par. 68

Sister White: Yes. One thing, I think you are not plain enough to come out and say what should be before the very persons themselves. I think you shrink from that. I know you do; and therefore things go as they should not go. They do not seem to—well, they look at it as a weakness in your managing. When something is wrong, that wrong must be remedied before the healing can come from the wrong; and there is a lack of carrying out the principles of faithful rebuking and reproving and correcting. All these things have to be done. You remember the charge given to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, ... preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1.] Well, this work must be done. It is not a pleasant work, I want to tell you—not a pleasant work at all. But still, these duties must not be neglected. It is doing a serious injury to a person to allow them to go on in a high-headed way, in a style of their own; for it is confirming in them a spirit which ought to be repressed in any of the workers or in any of the students who are trying to learn. That spirit will be met. Why? Because it was never met in their childhood. In church capacity it is very hard to do anything with those who were in their youth left to have their own way, carry out their own plans, and consult their own wishes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 48, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 48, 1888, par. 13

Timothy was a young man, yet Paul, his father in the gospel, gave him this counsel: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] And he further instructed him: “Charge them that are rich in this world that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” [1 Timothy 6:17-19.] And he concludes thus: “O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so-called; which some professing have erred concerning the faith.” [Verses 20, 21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 63, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 63, 1890, par. 6

The great apostle Paul has given in his charge to Timothy—his charge in his dying testimony—a most solemn charge to all who have any connection with the Word of God, to teach to others that Word in pureness, in knowledge, in faith unfeigned: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.” (2 Timothy 4:1, 2.) This is the solemn charge given to all who have a part to act as Christ’s ambassadors.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 28, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 28, 1890, par. 22

The solemn charge of Paul to Timothy is, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] God’s servants have a work of this kind to do; but if the people do not heed the counsel and reproof of the Lord’s messenger but push straight on in their stubbornness, they reject the Lord in the person of His servant, and great blindness will come upon them. I hope and pray that you will receive instruction; for no greater evidence can be given that a wrong spirit has the control of mind and judgment than that you will not receive counsel from the Lord’s ambassadors.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 9, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 26

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 3:16-4:2.] Keep close to your work; let not any device turn you from it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 3, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 25

The minister will meet wrongs that will seem to defy correction. They will be made aware of sins that seem to be covered, that will need to be exposed on the right hand and on the left. The prophet says, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness and forsook not the ordinance of their God:” “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [Isaiah 58:1, 2; 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12a, 1893, par. 21

But while some under correction will acknowledge that they have been an injury to the cause, there are others that will charge the one who has manifested true friendship by pointing out their wrongs with having an unkind spirit, and will either be impudent or disrespectful to the reprover, or will put on the disguise of injured innocence. This martyr-like appearance is a specious hypocrisy and is calculated to deceive those who are easily blinded, who are always ready to sympathize with the wrongdoer. The respect due to the servant of God who dared not be untrue to his position of trust, but accepted and acted upon the charge given him of the Lord, is not given. Let such evil-workers read the charge that is given to those in positions of trust: “I charge thee, therefore, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] This charge means that the worker for God is to bring closely home the warnings, reproofs, and lessons of God’s Word to see whether the wrongdoer will hear or whether he will forbear.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12b, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12b, 1893, par. 8

God abhors the course of all such workers. It is loathsome in His sight. When some of these have been cautioned and reproved, they will charge the one who has been their true friend with having a hard unkind spirit. They have either been impudent and disrespectful to the one upon whom was laid the burden of reproof, or they have put on the disguise of injured, abused innocence, a martyr-like appearance, which is a specious of hypocrisy to deceive those who are easily blinded, who are most always ready to sympathize with the wrongdoers. And [no respect is given to] the servant of God who dared not be untrue to his position of trust, but accepted <it as a> solemn charge, as a part of his work, “I charge thee, therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2], which means to bring closely to bear upon individual cases, the warnings and reproofs and lessons in the work of God, whether the wrongdoer will hear or forbear.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 103, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 103, 1894, par. 2

You have a solemn, sacred message to bear to the people. “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] But my brother, these grand and elevated truths are to be brought into the practical life. Soul, body, and spirit are to be transformed, and the influence of truth will be brought into immediate contact with all the little things of life and will supply the grand, powerful incentives to holiness and the broad principles that are the foundation of Christianity. I feel a deep interest that you shall not make any mistake.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 97, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 97, 1896, par. 16

While you can appear to see and recognize all that is praise-worthy in those who will not obey God instead of their inclinations, so some one must reprove and exhort these erring ones, who greatly dishonor God by their unchristian example. “I charge thee therefore,” wrote Paul to Timothy, “before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word.” You are not to follow your own impulse. To every soul that lives and is in danger of losing eternal life by not giving his heart in obedience to Jesus Christ, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 31, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 31, 1897, par. 4

The charge given to Timothy was, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] And this charge is for all who are acting a part in the ministry, who are following the example of Christ. They must snatch the opportunities as they come. Let all be fully prepared to disseminate the light by word and by pamphlet. There should be hundreds of little tracts scattered as the leaves as autumn.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

The Minister’s Responsibility

GW 30.1

“I charge thee therefore,” Paul wrote to Timothy, “before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 203, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 203, 1899, par. 8

The meetings have been excellent. Our ministers have carried out Paul’s charge to Timothy, “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] The Word has been preached, and many people have heard it. Grey haired men say, “I never knew before I came to this tent that such things were in the Bible. I never read my Bible so much before.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 25, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 25, 1899, par. 9

This is a wonderful mission field in which to work. Seek to be at peace with your brethren. But that peace must not be secured by failing to do the work which Paul the apostle charged Timothy to do: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 82a, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, par. 70

Sister White: Yes. One thing, I think you are not plain enough to come out and say what should be before the very persons themselves. I think you shrink from that. I know you do; and therefore things go as they should not go. They do not seem to—well, they look at it as a weakness in your managing. When something is wrong, that wrong must be remedied before the healing can come from the wrong; and there is a lack of carrying out the principles of faithful rebuking and reproving and correcting. All these things have to be done. You remember the charge given to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ ... preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] Well, this work must be done. It is not a pleasant work, I want to tell you—not a pleasant work at all. But still, these duties must not be neglected. It is doing a serious injury to a person to allow them to go on in a high-headed way, in a style of their own, for it is confirming in them a spirit which ought to be repressed in any of the workers or in any of the students who are trying to learn. That spirit will be met. Why? Because it was never met in their childhood. In church capacity it is very hard to do anything with those who were in their youth left to have their own way, carry out their own plans, and consult their own wishes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 37, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 37, 1902, par. 20

Listen to Paul’s charge to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing in His kingdom: Preach the Word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

“Preach the Word”

GW 147.1

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

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

MR No. 1417—Literature To Be Circulated Like Leaves of Autumn; “Exclusive” Principles To Be Eliminated

19MR 378.3

The charge given to Timothy was, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2]. This charge is for all who are acting a part in the ministry, [all] who are following the example of Christ. They must snatch the opportunities as they come. Let all be fully prepared to disseminate the light by word and by pamphlet. There should be hundreds of little tracts scattered as the leaves of autumn.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

An Unchanging Promise

8T 17.4

To the minister of the gospel God has given the work of guiding to Christ those who have wandered from the narrow way. He is to be wise and earnest in his efforts. At the end of each year he should be able to look back and see souls saved as the result of his labors. Some he is to save with fear, “pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh,” “holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught.” Jude 23; Titus 1:9. Paul’s charge to Timothy comes to the ministers of today: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ; ...Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 60—Practical Godliness

VSS 346.1

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2].

To Be Like Jesus

Now Is the Time to Work for Christ, September 8

BLJ 266.1

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 2 Timothy 4:1, 2, NKJV.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Timothy, September 28

YRP 280.1

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 24, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 24, 1885, par. 46

Brother Matteson gave an appropriate discourse. After the discourse Brother Albert Vuilleumier was ordained. Elder Lowe first prayed in English and then Brother D. T. Bourdeau in French, and then the ministers united in laying on of hands. Brother Whitney gave the charge: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 8, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, par. 10

That which in the councils of heaven the Father and the Son deemed essential for the salvation of man was defined from eternity by infinite truths which finite beings cannot fail to comprehend. Revelations have been made for their instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may glorify his own life and the lives of his fellow men, not only by the possession of truth, but by communicating it. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. I charge you therefore before the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, preach the word; be instant in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears.” [2 Timothy 3:16-4:3.]

This Day With God

Study to Be Approved, April 20

TDG 119.3

Let the men who are engaged in the solemn work of bearing the last message to the world, heed the exhortation of Paul, “Preach the Word.” Not the science of phrenology, or the productions from human speculations, but listen to the words of inspiration addressed to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables” (2 Timothy 4:1-4)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 34

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 92, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 92, 1894, par. 3

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears, and they shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables.” [2 Timothy 4:1-4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 3, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 19

But if we would work in unison with Christ, we must make the best use of the means which the Lord has provided. We must study the Scriptures and receive the messages which God shall send to us. The Lord has charged His messengers with the solemn charge: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” [2 Timothy 4:1-4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 59, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 59, 1898, par. 18

Then comes the solemn charge: “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” [2 Timothy 4:1-4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 95, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 95, 1898, par. 7

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but will of their own lusts heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” [2 Timothy 4:1-4.]

13LtMs, Ms 95, 1898, par. 16

What a waste of time and paper there is in repeating the sentiments of supposed great men, and which they have advanced as worth dwelling upon. As followers of Christ we are to bear in mind Paul’s charge to Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] We are to bring from the Word things new and old, that those who are seeking for the truth may find it. Says the apostle: “I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ: that in everything ye are enriched in him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge: even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Corinthians 1:4-7.]

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Engaging in Secular Business

GW92 195.3

Ministers should have no separate interest aside from the great work of leading souls to the truth. Their energies are all needed here. They should not engage in traffic of any kind, or in any business aside from this one great work. The solemn charge given to Timothy rests will equal weight upon them, laying upon them the most solemn obligations and most fearful responsibilities: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2, 5.]

GW92 196.1

Wrong habits of life have lessened our mental and physical sensibilities, and all the strength we can acquire by right living, and placing ourselves in the best relation to health and life, should be devoted unreservedly to the work which God has assigned us. We cannot afford to use the few enfeebled, crippled energies which we possess, in serving tables, or mingling merchandise with the work God has committed to us. Every faculty of mind and body is now needed. The work of God requires this, and no separate business can be engaged in aside from this great work, without taking time, and strength of mind and body, and thus lessening the vigor and force of our labor in the cause of God. Ministers who do this will not have all that time for meditation and prayer, and all that strength and clearness of mind which they should have to understand the cases of those who need help, and to be prepared to “be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] A word fitly spoken at the right time may save some poor, erring, doubting soul. Paul exhorted Timothy, “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.” [1 Timothy 4:15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 29, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 29, 1893, par. 9

Those who seek wisdom in the study of the world’s authors are not drinking from the pure fountain flowing from the throne of God. “Will a man leave the snow of Lebanon which cometh from the rock of the field? Or shall the cold flowing waters that come from another place be forsaken? Because my people hath forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused them to stumble in their ways from the ancient paths, to walk in paths, in a way not cast up.” Jeremiah 18:14, 15. Let the men who are engaged in the solemn work of bearing the last message to the world heed the exhortation of Paul: “Preach the Word.” Not the science of phrenology, or the productions from human speculations; but listen to the words of inspiration addressed to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, (the people) having itching ears, and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:1-4.

8LtMs, Ms 29, 1893, par. 10

Now hear the words addressed to the messengers who bear the God-given message to the people in those last days: “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 192, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, par. 8

My brethren who have the truth for these last days, bear in mind the words of the apostle Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy [4:]1-4. Whether the times be favorable or adverse, wherever there is an opportunity, press in; and when there is no opening, use every means possible to make one. Present the truth. The judge standeth before the door. Sinners are all around you. Speak to them the Word of God. Lose not a chance, [miss] no opportunity to let the light of heaven shine through the human instrument. If the opportunity does not come to you, make your opportunity. Every soul is precious.

16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, par. 9

We need to understand the whole description given by the apostle and benefit by the warnings given. Now, just now in 1901, how careful should the church be that they have the light and the oil, which God alone can give, to burn, to send forth divine truth and knowledge of what is truth. We have a message to bear to the fallen churches. Those who know the truth are to bear to them the Word of the Lord, for many precious souls are in the churches. Every way possible should be improved to flash Bible light before the people. For Christ’s sake, sow beside all waters, for you know not what shall prosper, this or that. “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.” They will run for teachers to oppose the present Bible truth with their endless theories. “And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [Verses 3-5.]

Conflict and Courage

Passing the Torch, December 7

CC 347.1

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.

CC 347.2

In this his last letter to Timothy, Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal, pointing out the duties devolving on him as a minister of Christ.... Paul bids him preach the word, not the sayings and customs of men; to be ready to witness for God whenever opportunity should present itself—before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, whether in safety or exposed to hardship and peril, reproach and loss.

CC 347.3

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin and even to rebuke with sharpness those who were guilty of gross evils. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” He was to reveal the patience and love of Christ....

CC 347.4

To hate and reprove sin, and at the same time to show pity and tenderness for the sinner, is a difficult attainment. The more earnest our own efforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, the more acute will be our perception of sin and the more decided our disapproval of any deviation from the right. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must also be careful not to lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is need of showing Christlike patience and love for the erring one, but there is also danger of showing so great toleration for his error that he will look upon himself as undeserving of reproof....

CC 347.5

With the growing contempt for God’s law there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring. What can be done to correct these alarming evils? The answer is found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “Preach the word.” In the Bible are found the only safe principles of action. It is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom.16Ibid., 501-506.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]

MR No. 163—Fanaticism and Side Issues

3MR 30.1

In this age of error, of daydreaming and reverie, we need to learn the first principles of the doctrine of Christ. Let us strive to be able to say with the apostle, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:16. The Lord calls upon us to follow high and noble principles. We must let the principles of the third angel’s message stand out clear and distinct. The great pillars of our faith will hold all the weight that can be placed upon them. Young men must be educated to keep within the bounds of “It is written.” Paul writes, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” That time has come. I present the word of warning: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” [2 Timothy 4:1-5].—Manuscript 82, 1894.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1472—Construction Progress at Avondale; Counsel to Edson: The Work of Elder Haskell; The Burden of False Brethren

20MR 231.4

“I charge thee therefore,” he writes, “before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” [2 Timothy 4:1-5].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1486—The Danger of Rejecting Light

20MR 317.6

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” [2 Timothy 4:1-5].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1490—Minds to Be Spiritual, Not Carnal: The Cross to Be Central in Preaching; Fanaticism and Trivial Ideas to Be Avoided

20MR 339.2

What should we teach? The answer to this question is found in Paul’s dying charge to Timothy, his son in the Gospel: [2 Timothy 4:1-5, quoted].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1535—Warning Against J. H. Kellogg and His Book, The Living Temple

21MR 174.5

“You are not to honor any man unless his works testify that God honors him, and that he is under the Lord’s keeping power. You have unmistakable evidence that one amongst you, whom in the past I have greatly honored, has greatly dishonored Me, and has made decided efforts to glorify himself. With legal bonds he has bound up the interests of My cause. These bonds must be broken, and you must use your influence to see that they are broken. My work is not to be manipulated by men. It must not be subjected to any ambitious devisings. The medical missionary work has been deteriorating, because the spirit that has controlled in it is not a pure, holy spirit, but a spirit that for years has been seeking to exalt itself against My messengers. [1 Timothy 4:1, 2; 2 Timothy 4:1-5, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 76, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 76, 1893, par. 46

The Christlike method of preaching practical piety and true godliness is in such marked contrast to the lives and characters of professed Christians that they turn away their ears from hearing the truth. The dying charge of Paul to Timothy was, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears: and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 82, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 82, 1894, par. 17

Young men must be educated to keep within the bounds of “It is written.” Paul writes, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” That time has come. I present the word of warning: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 105, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 105, 1894, par. 17

When the pure word of God is presented just as it reads to worldly professors of religion, they do not relish it, but turn from truths to fables. But shall the voice of warning be silent because men do not regard it with favor? God forbid. Just before his death, Paul gave the charge to Timothy, reining him up before the judgment, where he would be condemned or rewarded for the deeds done in the body, and said, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing, preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine; for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.] If such a solemn responsibility rests upon those who preach the word, does not an equal responsibility rest upon those who hear the word? Should they not receive the word preached, obeying it as the voice of God to them, being not forgetful hearers but doers of the word? “The entrance of thy words giveth light, it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] If you close the ear to the instruction given you from God’s word, if you close the door of the heart to divine knowledge, you cannot possibly understand the will of God, or be taught of God. Unless we search the Scriptures as Christ has commanded us to do, we shall fail to know and understand the will of God. We can only know what is truth by searching for it as for hidden treasure. Why is the word of life so much neglected when it means so much to every individual? It is to be a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 144, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 144, 1897, par. 24

The charge given to Timothy comes sounding down along the line to our time: “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season and out of season; reprove; rebuke; exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from hearing the truth, and shall be turned into fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 149a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 149a, 1897, par. 19

Elder Haskell gives the Bible studies, and he makes everything so plain, so simple that every mind can take it in. How many times I have wished that you were here to listen to the precious words from the lips of the servant of God. All who listen to his words of presentation of the Word, setting before the minds truth in its simplicity, are conscious they are favored. They are learning the “It is written” and how to use the Word of God. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] Then how important that we all shall appreciate the study of the Scriptures as calculated to make the student wise unto salvation. Precious Word! We are safe only as we eat and digest it. The charge of the apostle to his son Timothy is appropriate for all who claim to believe the truth. 2 Timothy 4:1-5. I am so thankful to God for the prosperity that has marked the work done on the school grounds. We are surprised at the number of the students already here, and others will be coming in.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 149, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 149, 1897, par. 21

How important then that we appreciate the study of the Scriptures as calculated to make the student wise unto salvation. Precious Word! We are safe only as we eat and digest it. The charge of the apostle Paul to Timothy is appropriate for all who claim to know the truth. “I charge thee therefore,” he writes, “before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing in his kingdom; preach the word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 56, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 53

Paul gave this solemn charge to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word, be instant in season, out of season: reprove, rebuke, with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine: but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 64, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 64, 1898, par. 16

“I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing in his kingdom, Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season: reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lust shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 89, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 26

Again he says in his charge to Timothy: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God: and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts will they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 3:16-4:5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 36, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 36, 1900, par. 6

My mind is still weighed down. The importance of the canvassing work is kept before me. Those who have gained an experience in this work have a special duty to perform in teaching others. Canvassers and ministers have their appointed work to do. Paul wrote to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things ... do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 21, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, par. 1

I am awakened this morning at one o’clock with a message to bear to my brethren in America. I seemed to be in a meeting where there were a large number of ministers. The Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and I said, I have a message from the Lord to you. “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 70, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, par. 25

What should we teach? The answer to this question is found in Paul’s dying charge to Timothy, his son in the Gospel: “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when men will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, par. 29

I warn my brethren in the educational work not to allow the threads of fanaticism to be interwoven with the church school work. Preach and teach the words of eternal life. In establishing church schools, do not move uncertainly. Let the foundation of your building be solid rock, not shifting sand. Before you attempt to educate, be sure that you have a message bearing the divine credentials. No one can teach others of God who does not first learn in the school of Christ. Leave out everything which will divert the mind from the truth as it is in Jesus. “Preach the Word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 128, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 128, 1903, par. 3

The apostle Paul gives to Timothy a most solemn charge: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

18LtMs, Ms 128, 1903, par. 5

Gospel medical missionary workers, as faithful representatives of their Leader, are to bear a message from God. If among this class of workers there should be found those who are not sanctified through the truth; those who are unable to work the works of truth and righteousness, who in word and act dishonor the truth and lower the standard that should always be elevated to represent the medical missionary work in its purity, then faithful work is to be done by God’s ministers. Like Timothy, they are to “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 128a, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 128a, 1903, par. 3

The apostle Paul gives to Timothy a most solemn charge: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

18LtMs, Ms 128a, 1903, par. 5

Gospel medical missionary workers, as faithful representatives of their Leader, are to bear a message from God. If among this class of workers there should be found those who are not sanctified through the truth; those who are unable to work the works of truth and righteousness, but who in word and act dishonor the truth and lower the standard that should be elevated to represent the medical missionary work in its purity, then faithful work is to be done by God’s ministers. Like Timothy, they are to “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 279, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, par. 6

“‘The Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter time some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron.’ [1 Timothy 4:1, 2.] ‘I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.’ [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 193, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 193, 1905, par. 7

“Continue thou in the things which thou hast heard, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17; 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 130, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 130, 1906, par. 40

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 160, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 160, 1906, par. 10

I am aroused to exhort our people, “Preach the Word.” Paul’s charge to Timothy is appropriate for this particular time. “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Faithfulness in Service

GW 16.3

The Lord sends His ministers to hold forth the word of life, to preach, not “philosophy and vain deceit,” nor “science falsely so called,” but the gospel, “the power of God unto salvation.” [Colossians 2:8; 1 Timothy 6:20; Romans 1:16.] “I charge thee therefore,” Paul wrote to Timothy, “before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.] In this charge every minister has his work outlined,—a work that he can do only through the fulfilment of the promise that Jesus gave to His disciples, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end.” [Matthew 28:20.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1091—Preach God’s Word, Not Fanciful, Imaginary Doctrines

14MR 60.2

Paul writes, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables” [2 Timothy 4:1-4]. That time has come. I present the word of warning: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” [Verse 5].

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

MR No. 1385—Diary—The Canvassing Work

19MR 153.1

January 10—My mind is still weighed down. The importance of the canvassing work is kept before me. Those who have gained an experience in this work have a special duty to perform in teaching others. Canvassers and ministers have their appointed work to do. Paul wrote to Timothy: [2 Timothy 4:1-5, quoted].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1186—Wrongdoing to be Condemned; Righteousness to be Exalted

16MR 2.1

The apostle Paul gives to Timothy a most solemn charge: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” [2 Timothy 4:1-5].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 22, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 22, 1906, par. 5

“I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] If all men had been true and faithful to Dr. Kellogg, he might have been, yes, would have been in a far different position religiously from what he is now in. There was a work to be done under the influence of the Holy Spirit, to arrest a growing unbelief and infidelity, which was making itself felt. But words were not spoken by Dr. Kellogg’s associates to arrest and prevent this growing infidelity.

21LtMs, Lt 22, 1906, par. 8

“But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto them also that love His appearing.” [Verses 1-8.]

21LtMs, Lt 22, 1906, par. 9

Observe this solemn charge, and compare it with other scriptures. There is great importance in the words of this charge. Impressive are the words: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [Verses 1, 2.] Men who are in danger are not to be left to their own will, and their own ways, to exercise their unsanctified devising. Men whom the Lord has used in the ministry of His Word and in the science of combating disease are to exercise full faith in dealing with the sick, praying and talking with them, following Bible methods, and in the wisdom of God acting the part of an evangelist. Our physicians in every sanitarium are to give full proof of their genuine conversion. They are to be instant in season, out of season. The enemy is close beside them, to make impressions on their minds; therefore the greatest faithfulness is required. There are those who have been under the control of teachers having itching ears, and they will not endure sound doctrines. But suffering often softens the hard, unimpressible mind, turning it to serious things; and under suffering such ones may in our sanitariums be turned away from fables to the truth, if their cases are wisely managed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 207, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 207, 1899, par. 8

There are living upon our earth, men who have passed the age of four score and ten. The natural results of old age are seen in their feebleness. But they believe God, and God loves them. The seal of God is upon them, and they will be among the number of whom the Lord has said, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.” [Revelation 14:13.] With Paul they can say, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:7, 8.] There are many whose gray hairs God honors because they have fought a good fight and kept the faith.

14LtMs, Lt 207, 1899, par. 14

The Lord Jesus did not bring forth any of the cheap suppositions that some who claim to be teachers are manufacturing. There can be no value in the fables that are composed by guess work to make an impression on minds. Young men must be educated to keep within the bounds of “It is written.” Paul writes, “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned to fables.” That time has come. I present the word of warning: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 61, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 61, 1896, par. 4

My brother, you need to examine more closely the discourses you present to the people. The object of your ministerial labors is not to amuse. It is not to convey information alone, not merely to convince the intellect. The preaching of the Word should appeal to the intellect and impart knowledge, but it comprises much more than this. The heart of the minister must reach the hearts of the hearers. You have adopted a style of preaching that does not have a right influence. It has become a habit with you to cheapen your discourses by the relating of anecdotes. The impression thus made upon the hearers is not a savor of life unto life. You should not bring amusing stories into your preaching. You need, and the people need, pure provender, thoroughly winnowed from all that is not food. “Preach the word,” was the charge that Paul gave to Timothy, and this is your commission. [2 Timothy 4:2.]

11LtMs, Lt 61, 1896, par. 12

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. ... Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:1-6, 8.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

MR No. 137—How To Relate To Civil Authorities, Especially in Regard to the Sabbath

2MR 195.2

We must stand on the platform of eternal truth. As laborers together with God, we are not to hurl thunderbolts at those in error but uplift Christ before them, and bid them behold the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world. We are not to storm their ears with prejudice, because this is not the way to break down prejudice. Paul, the faithful witness for Christ, gave this dying charge to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:1-8.] Read also 1 Timothy 3:10-16, and 2:1-12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 46, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 46, 1898, par. 24

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine: but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure affliction, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:1-8.] Read also 1 Timothy 3:10-16; 2:1-12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 190, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, par. 1

Spoke in the tent at Los Angeles to a large audience in regard to the duty of parents to their children. I spoke one hour Friday morning at quarter before six. I could but urge on the parents the necessity of the education of their children, for this is the very foundation stone for the building of the character. This is the great, important work for the parents in their home life. In no way can this work be neglected. The Holy Spirit [speaks] in warnings and reproof. [See] 2 Timothy 4:1-8. There is the plan of God, the ministry of His Word. Study His Word with prayerful diligence. Show your consecration to God’s Word. Obedience, virtue, prudence, and piety are to be presented from the Scriptures as the obligation of every human being. Each has an accountability to God. This needs to be urged upon the consciences of men.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

The Minister’s Relationship to God’s Word

Text: 2 Timothy 4:1-11

1SAT 64.1

Let us see what [the Word says] further: “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing” [2 Timothy 4:6-8].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 13, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 2

Text: 2 Timothy 4:1-11.

5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 11

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them that love his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:6-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 36, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 1

“Make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:5.]

17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 15

To every minister and to every teacher is given the charge that Paul gave to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 16

The apostle Paul suffered from unworthy men. Pleading for true fellow laborers to be sent to him, he wrote: “Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: for Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry. ... Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever.” [Verses 9-11, 14-18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 149, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 13

“I charge thee therefore before the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine; for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts will they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth; and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 15

“I am now ready to be offered,” the apostle Paul declared as his warfare drew to its close; “the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course; I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but to all them also that love His appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:6-8.]

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 16

“Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me: for Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia; Titus unto Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is profitable to me for the ministry. And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.” [Verses 9-12.]

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 17

“Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. At my first answer, no man stood with me; but all men forsook me. I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding, the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” [Verses 14-18.]

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 18

This letter was written to Timotheus, the first bishop of the church at Ephesus, after Paul had been brought the second time before Nero to witness with his life to the faith he held. In placing on record this account of his trials through men who turned from the faith, Paul speaks words which should encourage our hearts as we pass over the same ground. We are having trials to encounter similar to those that Paul met. There are some who were once with us as teachers, but who are now denying the faith and are working against the truth they once advocated. In this experience we are not to lose our faith and confidence in God. It is the privilege of each to be able to say, “The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” [Verse 18.]

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 49—Paul’s Last Letter

AA 498.1

From the judgment hall of Caesar, Paul returned to his cell, realizing that he had gained for himself only a brief respite. He knew that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But he knew also that for a time truth had triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucified and risen Saviour before the vast crowd who had listened to him, was in itself a victory. That day a work had begun which would grow and strengthen, and which Nero and all other enemies of Christ would seek in vain to hinder or destroy.

AA 498.2

Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowing that at a word or a nod from Nero his life might be sacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy and determined to send for him. To Timothy had been committed the care of the church at Ephesus, and he had therefore been left behind when Paul made his last journey to Rome. Paul and Timothy were bound together by an affection unusually deep and strong. Since his conversion, Timothy had shared Paul’s labors and sufferings, and the friendship between the two had grown stronger, deeper, and more sacred, until all that a son could be to a loved and honored father, Timothy was to the aged, toilworn apostle. It is little wonder that in his loneliness and solitude, Paul longed to see him.

AA 499.1

Under the most favorable circumstances several months must pass before Timothy could reach Rome from Asia Minor. Paul knew that his life was uncertain, and he feared that Timothy might arrive too late to see him. He had important counsel and instruction for the young man, to whom so great responsibility had been entrusted; and while urging him to come without delay, he dictated the dying testimony that he might not be spared to utter. His soul filled with loving solicitude for his son in the gospel and for the church under his care, Paul sought to impress Timothy with the importance of fidelity to his sacred trust.

AA 499.2

Paul began his letter with the salutation: “To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day.”

AA 499.3

The apostle then urged upon Timothy the necessity of steadfastness in the faith. “I put thee in remembrance,” he wrote, “that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God.” Paul entreated Timothy to remember that he had been called “with a holy calling” to proclaim the power of Him who had “brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: whereunto,” he declared, “I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day.”

AA 500.1

Through his long term of service, Paul had never faltered in his allegiance to his Saviour. Wherever he was—whether before scowling Pharisees, or Roman authorities; before the furious mob at Lystra, or the convicted sinners in the Macedonian dungeon; whether reasoning with the panic-stricken sailors on the shipwrecked vessel, or standing alone before Nero to plead for his life—he had never been ashamed of the cause he was advocating. The one great purpose of his Christian life had been to serve Him whose name had once filled him with contempt; and from this purpose no opposition or persecution had been able to turn him aside. His faith, made strong by effort and pure by sacrifice, upheld and strengthened him.

AA 500.2

“Thou therefore, my son,” Paul continued, “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

AA 501.1

The true minister of God will not shun hardship or responsibility. From the Source that never fails those who sincerely seek for divine power, he draws strength that enables him to meet and overcome temptation, and to perform the duties that God places upon him. The nature of the grace that he receives, enlarges his capacity to know God and His Son. His soul goes out in longing desire to do acceptable service for the Master. And as he advances in the Christian pathway he becomes “strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” This grace enables him to be a faithful witness of the things that he has heard. He does not despise or neglect the knowledge that he has received from God, but commits this knowledge to faithful men, who in their turn teach others.

AA 501.2

In this his last letter to Timothy, Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal, pointing out the duties devolving on him as a minister of Christ. “Study to show thyself approved unto God,” the apostle wrote, “a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”

AA 502.1

The apostle warned Timothy against the false teachers who would seek to gain entrance into the church. “This know also,” he declared, “that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy; ... having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

AA 502.2

“Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse,” he continued, “deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.... All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” God has provided abundant means for successful warfare against the evil that is in the world. The Bible is the armory where we may equip for the struggle. Our loins must be girt about with truth. Our breastplate must be righteousness. The shield of faith must be in our hand, the helmet of salvation on our brow; and with the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, we are to cut our way through the obstructions and entanglements of sin.

AA 502.3

Paul knew that there was before the church a time of great peril. He knew that faithful, earnest work would have to be done by those left in charge of the churches; and he wrote to Timothy, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”

AA 503.1

This solemn charge to one so zealous and faithful as was Timothy is a strong testimony to the importance and responsibility of the work of the gospel minister. Summoning Timothy before the bar of God, Paul bids him preach the word, not the sayings and customs of men; to be ready to witness for God whenever opportunity should present itself—before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, whether in safety or exposed to hardship and peril, reproach and loss.

AA 503.2

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin and even to rebuke with sharpness those who were guilty of gross evils. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” He was to reveal the patience and love of Christ, explaining and enforcing his reproofs by the truths of the word.

AA 503.3

To hate and reprove sin, and at the same time to show pity and tenderness for the sinner, is a difficult attainment. The more earnest our own efforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, the more acute will be our perception of sin and the more decided our disapproval of any deviation from the right. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must also be careful not to lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is need of showing Christlike patience and love for the erring one, but there is also danger of showing so great toleration for his error that he will look upon himself as undeserving of reproof, and will reject it as uncalled for and unjust.

AA 504.1

Ministers of the gospel sometimes do great harm by allowing their forbearance toward the erring to degenerate into toleration of sins and even participation in them. Thus they are led to excuse and palliate that which God condemns, and after a time they become so blinded as to commend the very ones whom God commands them to reprove. He who has blunted his spiritual perceptions by sinful leniency toward those whom God condemns, will erelong commit a greater sin by severity and harshness toward those whom God approves.

AA 504.2

By the pride of human wisdom, by contempt for the influence of the Holy Spirit, and by disrelish for the truths of God’s word, many who profess to be Christians, and who feel competent to teach others, will be led to turn away from the requirements of God. Paul declared to Timothy, “The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

AA 504.3

The apostle does not here refer to the openly irreligious, but to the professing Christians who make inclination their guide, and thus become enslaved by self. Such are willing to listen to those doctrines only that do not rebuke their sins or condemn their pleasure-loving course. They are offended by the plain words of the faithful servants of Christ and choose teachers who praise and flatter them. And among professing ministers there are those who preach the opinions of men instead of the word of God. Unfaithful to their trust, they lead astray those who look to them for spiritual guidance.

AA 505.1

In the precepts of His holy law, God has given a perfect rule of life; and He has declared that until the close of time this law, unchanged in a single jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim upon human beings. Christ came to magnify the law and make it honorable. He showed that it is based upon the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God. In the Sermon on the Mount He showed how its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

AA 505.2

The law, obeyed, leads men to deny “ungodliness and worldly lusts,” and to “live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” Titus 2:12. But the enemy of all righteousness has taken the world captive and has led men and women to disobey the law. As Paul foresaw, multitudes have turned from the plain, searching truths of God’s word and have chosen teachers who present to them the fables they desire. Many among both ministers and people are trampling under their feet the commandments of God. Thus the Creator of the world is insulted, and Satan laughs in triumph at the success of his devices.

AA 506.1

With the growing contempt for God’s law there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can be done to correct these alarming evils? The answer is found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “Preach the word.” In the Bible are found the only safe principles of action. It is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom. It opens to man’s understanding the great problems of life, and to all who heed its precepts it will prove an unerring guide, keeping them from wasting their lives in misdirected effort.

AA 506.2

God has made known His will, and it is folly for man to question that which has gone out of His lips. After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there can be no doubtful questions for man to settle, no wavering possibilities for him to adjust. All that is required of him is a frank, earnest concurrence in the expressed will of God. Obedience is the highest dictate of reason as well as of conscience.

AA 506.3

Paul continued his charge: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” Paul was about to finish his course, and he desired Timothy to take his place, guarding the church from the fables and heresies by which the enemy, in various ways, would endeavor to lead them from the simplicity of the gospel. He admonished him to shun all temporal pursuits and entanglements that would prevent him from giving himself wholly to his work for God; to endure with cheerfulness the opposition, reproach, and persecution to which his faithfulness would expose him; to make full proof of his ministry by employing every means within his reach of doing good to those for whom Christ died.

AA 507.1

Paul’s life was an exemplification of the truths he taught, and herein lay his power. His heart was filled with a deep, abiding sense of his responsibility, and he labored in close communion with Him who is the fountain of justice, mercy, and truth. He clung to the cross of Christ as his only guarantee of success. The love of the Saviour was the undying motive that upheld him in his conflicts with self and in his struggles against evil as in the service of Christ he pressed forward against the unfriendliness of the world and the opposition of his enemies.

AA 507.2

What the church needs in these days of peril is an army of workers who, like Paul, have educated themselves for usefulness, who have a deep experience in the things of God, and who are filled with earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacrificing men are needed; men who will not shun trial and responsibility; men who are brave and true; men in whose hearts Christ is formed “the hope of glory,” and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the word.” For want of such workers the cause of God languishes, and fatal errors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

AA 507.3

As the faithful, toilworn standard-bearers are offering up their lives for the truth’s sake, who will come forward to take their place? Will our young men accept the holy trust at the hands of their fathers? Are they preparing to fill the vacancies made by the death of the faithful? Will the apostle’s charge be heeded, the call to duty be heard, amidst the incitements to selfishness and ambition that allure the youth?

AA 508.1

Paul concluded his letter with personal messages to different ones and again repeated the urgent request that Timothy come to him soon, if possible before the winter. He spoke of his loneliness, caused by the desertion of some of his friends and the necessary absence of others; and lest Timothy should hesitate, fearing that the church at Ephesus might need his labors, Paul stated that he had already dispatched Tychicus to fill the vacancy.

AA 508.2

After speaking of the scene of his trial before Nero, the desertion of his brethren, and the sustaining grace of a covenant-keeping God, Paul closed his letter by commending his beloved Timothy to the guardianship of the Chief Shepherd, who, though the undershepherds might be stricken down, would still care for His flock.

Loma Linda Messages

E. G. White to J. A. Burden, Oct. 11, 1909 (B.-132-’09)

LLM 448.5

Let none think that they can pass safely through the perils of these last days, while puffed up with self-sufficiency. Some would unsettle minds by urging the carrying out of false plans. False theories are taught as truth, and I am charged to meet these errors decidedly. We should heed the instruction found in the third and fourth chapters of second Timothy, especially the solemn charge given by Paul to Timothy:

The Present Truth (UK)

November 7, 1895

PrT November 7, 1895, par. 7

But the masses of the people turn away their ears from hearing the truth, and are turned unto fables. The Apostle Paul declared, looking down to the last days, “The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine.” 2 Tim. iv. 3. That time has fully come. The multitudes do not want Bible truth, because it interferes with the desires of the sinful, world-loving heart; and Satan supplies the deceptions which they love.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 49—Paul Pours Out His Heart in His Last Letter

TT 262.1

From the judgment hall Paul returned to his cell, realizing that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But for a time truth had triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucified and risen Saviour before that vast crowd was in itself a victory. That day a work had begun which would grow and which Nero and all other enemies of Christ would seek in vain to destroy.

TT 262.2

Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowing that at a word from Nero his life might be sacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy and determined to send for him. Timothy had been left at Ephesus when Paul made his last journey to Rome. Timothy had shared Paul’s labors and sufferings, and their friendship had grown deeper and more sacred until Timothy was to Paul all that a son could be to an honored father. In his loneliness, Paul longed to see him.

TT 262.3

Under the most favorable circumstances, several months must pass before Timothy could reach Rome from Asia Minor. Paul knew that his life was uncertain, and while urging him to come without delay, he dictated the testimony that he might not be spared to utter. His soul was filled with loving solicitude for his son in the gospel and for the church under his care.

TT 262.4

The apostle urged Timothy: “Rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control. Do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel in the power of God.” “Therefore I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am sure that He is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.”

TT 263.1

Through his long service Paul had never faltered in his allegiance to his Saviour. Before scowling Pharisees or Roman authorities, or the convicted sinners in the Macedonian dungeon, reasoning with panic-stricken sailors on the shipwrecked vessel, or standing alone before Nero—he had never been ashamed of the cause he was advocating. No opposition or persecution had been able to turn him aside.

TT 263.2

“You then, my son,” Paul continued, “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus... . Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

TT 263.3

The true minister of God will not shun hardship. From the Source that never fails, he draws strength to overcome temptation and to perform the duties God places upon him. His soul goes out in longing desire to do acceptable service. “The grace that is in Christ Jesus” enables him to be a faithful witness of the things he has heard. He commits this knowledge to faithful men, who in their turn teach others.

TT 263.4

In this letter Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” “Shun youthful passions and aim at righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with stupid, senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.” Be “an apt teacher, forbearing, correcting ... opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth.”

TT 264.1

The apostle warned Timothy against false teachers who would seek entrance into the church: “Understand this, that in the last days there will come times of stress. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ... holding the form of religion but denying the power of it. Avoid such people.”

TT 264.2

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation... . All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” The Bible is the armory where we may equip for the struggle. The shield of faith must be in our hand; and with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, we are to cut our way through the obstructions and entanglements of sin.

TT 264.3

Paul knew that faithful, earnest work would have to be done in the churches, and he wrote to Timothy: “Preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching.” Summoning Timothy before the bar of God, Paul bade him to be ready to witness for God before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, in safety or hardship and peril.

TT 264.4

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine” (KJV), explaining his reproofs by the Word.

TT 264.5

To hate sin and at the same time show tenderness for the sinner, is difficult. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must not lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is danger of showing so great toleration for error that the erring one will look on himself as undeserving of reproof.

TT 265.1

Ministers of the gospel sometimes allow their forbearance toward the erring to degenerate into toleration of sins, and even participation in them. They excuse that which God condemns, and after a time become so blinded as to commend the ones whom God commands them to reprove. He who has blunted his spiritual perceptions by sinful leniency toward those whom God condemns, will erelong commit a greater sin by severity and harshness toward those whom God approves.

TT 265.2

By the pride of human wisdom and by disrelish for the truths of God’s Word, many who feel competent to teach others will turn away from the requirements of God. “The time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own likings, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander into myths.”

TT 265.3

The apostle here refers to professing Christians who make inclination their guide, and thus become enslaved by self. Such are willing to listen only to doctrines that do not rebuke sin or condemn their pleasure-loving course. They choose teachers who flatter them. And among professing ministers there are those who preach the opinions of men instead of the Word of God.

TT 265.4

God has declared that until the close of time His holy law, unchanged in jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim on human beings. Christ came to show that it is based on the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God.

TT 265.5

But the enemy of all righteousness has led men and women to disobey the law. As Paul foresaw, multitudes have chosen teachers who present fables. Many, both ministers and people, are trampling under their feet the commandments of God. The Creator is insulted, and Satan laughs in triumph at his success.

TT 266.1

With contempt for God’s law, there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can be done to correct these evils? The answer is, “Preach the Word.” The Bible is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom. It will guide all who heed its precepts, keeping them from wasting their lives in misdirected effort.

TT 266.2

After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there can be no doubtful questions for man to settle. All that is required is obedience.

TT 266.3

Paul was about to finish his course, and he desired Timothy to take his place, guarding the church from fables and heresies. He admonished him to shun all pursuits and entanglements that would prevent him from giving himself wholly to his work for God; to endure with cheerfulness the opposition, reproach, and persecution; to make full proof of his ministry.

TT 266.4

Paul clung to the cross as his only guarantee of success. The love of the Saviour was the motive that upheld him in his conflicts with self and in his struggles against the unfriendliness of the world and the opposition of his enemies.

TT 266.5

In these days of peril the church needs an army of workers who have educated themselves for usefulness and who have a deep experience in the things of God. Men are needed who will not shun trial and responsibility, who are brave and true, and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the Word.” For want of such workers, fatal errors, like deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

TT 267.1

Will young men accept the holy trust? Will the apostle’s charge be heeded, the call to duty be heard, amidst the incitements to selfishness and ambition?

TT 267.2

Paul concluded his letter with the urgent request that Timothy come soon, if possible before winter. He spoke of his loneliness and stated that he had dispatched Tychicus to Ephesus. After speaking of his trial before Nero, the desertion of his brethren, and the sustaining grace of God, Paul closed by commending his beloved Timothy to the Chief Shepherd, who, though the undershepherds might be stricken down, would still care for His flock.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 3, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 3, 1882, par. 18

“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 2-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 147, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 147, 1904, par. 5

It is Sabbath day. I am this day seventy-seven years old. I have thinking to do and I have reason to thank the Lord that He has spared my life. I am pleased that the Lord has favored me with His encouraging grace. I have been sick for more than one week with influenza. Have kept my room much of the time. I have been repenting during this more than a week of suffering. My throat and lungs have oft been under congestion, my cough is hard and dry; expectorate but little. My labors have been quite taxing, and the Lord has greatly blessed me. During the night season we were in counsel. After we were planning what we should do, there was One who spoke with clearness and laid out the work that, while my life is spared, we shall secure a home for myself and workers, that W. C. White’s time and energies need not be divorced from the work being carried forward and upward. The special energies and capabilities are to be exercised to get out the books that are essential for this last time. We were to place ourselves in the very best possible position for health and for clear, bright spirituality. Faith and works are needed now in clear, distinct lines. While light is being given amid the moral darkness, we must gather every distinct ray of light that will substantiate the truth, bearing aloft the banner for these last days—the third angel’s message. The churches need to be set in order, the door of unbelief to be closed. The seducing power of Satan we are told will increase in such proportions that if it is possible he will deceive the very elect. Some are not making straight paths for their feet, and in consequence the weak will be turned out of the way. Let every soul take the warning. 2 Corinthians 1:6, 15-18; 11:14; Galatians 6:1-9; Ephesians 4:1-32; Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Timothy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 400, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 400, 1906, par. 7

By way of contrast the apostle presents the opposite condition of morals that will exist among those who are faithful in their service for God. “Thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured.” Then for our encouragement he sounds the glad word, “Out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [Verses 10-17.] Read also Paul’s solemn charge to Timothy in the fourth chapter of Second Timothy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 132, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 132, 1909, par. 10

Let none think that they can pass safely through the perils of these last days, while puffed up with self-sufficiency. Some would unsettle minds by urging the carrying out of false plans. False theories are taught as truth, and I am charged to meet these errors decidedly. We should heed the instruction found in the third and fourth chapters of Second Timothy, especially the solemn charge given by Paul to Timothy:

24LtMs, Lt 132, 1909, par. 12

“I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:1-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 62, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 62, 1911, par. 6

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

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 2—“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”

COL 40.3

Instead of discussing erroneous theories, or seeking to combat the opponents of the gospel, follow the example of Christ. Let fresh truths from God’s treasure house flash into life. “Preach the word.” “Sow beside all waters.” “Be instant in season, out of season.” “He that hath My word, let him speak My word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord.” “Every word of God is pure.... Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” 2 Timothy 4:2; Isaiah 32:20; Jeremiah 23:28; Proverbs 30:5, 6.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Remission of Sins

GW 502.1

“Whosesoever sins ye remit,” said Christ, “they are remitted; ...and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” [John 20:23.] Christ here gives no liberty for any man to pass judgment upon others. In the sermon on the mount He forbade this. It is the prerogative of God. But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty, to warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort,” the Lord says, “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1109—“Preach the Word”; Be on Guard Against Fanaticism; Take No Rash Action Against Anna Phillips’ Writings

14MR 187.1

If we work to create an excitement of feeling, we shall have all we want, and more than we can possibly know how to manage. Calmly and clearly “preach the word” [2 Timothy 4:2]. We must not regard it as our work to create an excitement. The Holy Spirit of God alone can create a healthy enthusiasm. Let God work, and let the human agent walk softly before Him, watching, waiting, praying, looking unto Jesus every moment, led and controlled by the precious Spirit which is light and life.

Maranatha

Sunday Missionary Work, June 19

Mar 178.1

Preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching. 2 Timothy 4:2, R.S.V.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke

PK 142.1

Would that every minister might realize the sacredness of his office and the holiness of his work, and show the courage that Elijah showed! As divinely appointed messengers, ministers are in a position of awful responsibility. They are to “reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering.” 2 Timothy 4:2. In Christ’s stead they are to labor as stewards of the mysteries of heaven, encouraging the obedient and warning the disobedient. With them worldly policy is to have no weight. Never are they to swerve from the path in which Jesus has bidden them walk. They are to go forward in faith, remembering that they are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. They are not to speak their own words, but words which One greater than the potentates of earth has bidden them speak. Their message is to be, “Thus saith the Lord.” God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the Baptist—men who will bear His message with faithfulness, regardless of the consequences; men who will speak the truth bravely, though it call for the sacrifice of all they have.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 21—Fanciful or Speculative Teachings

1SM 173.2

To my ministering brethren I would say, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Do not bring to the foundation wood, and hay, and stubble—your own surmisings and speculations, which can benefit no one.

Selected Messages Book 2

“Nothing Objectionable” an Unsound Basis for Acceptance

2SM 95.2

If we work to create an excitement of feeling, we shall have all we want, and more than we can possibly know how to manage. Calmly and clearly “preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2). We must not regard it as our work to create an excitement. The Holy Spirit of God alone can create a healthy enthusiasm. Let God work, and let the human agent walk softly before Him, watching, waiting, praying, looking unto Jesus every moment, led and controlled by the precious Spirit which is light and life.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Chapter 6—Our Publications

9T 62.2

There is danger of entering into commercialism and becoming so engrossed in worldly business that the truths of the word of God in their purity and power will not be brought into the life. The love of trade and gain is becoming more and more prevalent. My brethren, let your souls be truly converted. If ever there was a time when we needed to understand our responsibilities, it is now, when truth is fallen in the streets and equity cannot enter. Satan has come down with great power to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; and everything that can be shaken will be shaken, and those things that cannot be shaken will remain. The Lord is coming very soon, and we are entering into scenes of calamity. Satanic agencies, though unseen, are working to destroy human life. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall see of His grace and salvation. Christ is coming to establish His kingdom on the earth. Let our tongues be sanctified and used to glorify Him. Let us work now as we have never worked before. We are exhorted to “be instant in season, out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:2. We are to make openings for the presentation of the truth. We are to improve every opportunity of drawing souls to Christ.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 84—“Peace Be Unto You”

DA 805.4

“Whosesoever sins ye remit,” said Christ, “they are remitted; ... and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” Christ here gives no liberty for any man to pass judgment upon others. In the Sermon on the Mount He forbade this. It is the prerogative of God. But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty, to warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort,” the Lord says, “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. Deal faithfully with wrongdoing. Warn every soul that is in danger. Leave none to deceive themselves. Call sin by its right name. Declare what God has said in regard to lying, Sabbathbreaking, stealing, idolatry, and every other evil. “They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:21. If they persist in sin, the judgment you have declared from God’s word is pronounced upon them in heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown Christ; the church must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dishonors her Lord. She must say about sin what God says about it. She must deal with it as God directs, and her action is ratified in heaven. He who despises the authority of the church despises the authority of Christ Himself.

The Faith I Live By

Speculations About the Future Life, December 26

FLB 366.4

“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:2. Do not bring to the foundation wood, and hay, and stubble—your own surmisings and speculations, which can benefit no one.

This Day With God

Promise of His Presence, February 10

TDG 49.1

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 19—The Measure of Forgiveness

COL 248.3

In his charge to Timothy, Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “Be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. And to Titus he writes, “There are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers.... Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith.” Titus 1:10-13.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Gift of Speech, July 7

YRP 197.1

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 115—The Vision at Salamanca

1888 947.1

God has a living testimony, not a tame, lifeless, sermonizing. Men in responsible positions are not to study to meet the world’s plans, to cater to the world’s ideas, to speak smooth words and prophesy deceit. The Comforter—the Holy Spirit of God whom Christ said the Father would send in His name—with unsparing lips reproves the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2.

The Colporteur Evangelist

Danger of Commercialism

CEv 101.3

There is danger of entering into commercialism and becoming so engrossed in worldly business that the truths of the word of God in their purity and power will not be brought into the life. The love of trade and gain is becoming more and more prevalent. My brethren, let your souls be truly converted. If ever there was a time when we needed to understand our responsibilities, it is now, when truth is fallen in the streets and equity cannot enter. Satan has come down with great power to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; and everything that can be shaken will be shaken, and those things that cannot be shaken will remain. The Lord is coming very soon, and we are entering into scenes of calamity. Satanic agencies, though unseen, are working to destroy human life. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall see of His grace and salvation. Christ is coming to establish His kingdom on the earth. Let our tongues be sanctified and used to glorify Him. Let us work now as we have never worked before. We are exhorted to “be instant in season, out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:2. We are to make openings for the presentation of the truth. We are to improve every opportunity of drawing souls to Christ.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

To Go Everywhere

3TT 312.3

The Lord is coming very soon, and we are entering into scenes of calamity. Satanic agencies, though unseen, are working to destroy human life. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall see of His grace and salvation. Christ is coming to establish His kingdom on the earth. Let our tongues be sanctified and used to glorify Him. Let us work now as we have never worked before. We are exhorted to “be instant in season, out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:2. We are to make openings for the presentation of the truth. We are to improve every opportunity of drawing souls to Christ.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Despisers of Reproof

1TT 342.2

Those whom God has set apart as ministers of righteousness have solemn responsibilities laid upon them to reprove the sins of the people. Paul commanded Titus: “These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” Titus 2:15. There are ever those who will despise the one who dares to reprove sin; but there are times when reproof must be given. Paul directs Titus to rebuke a certain class sharply, that they may be sound in the faith. Men and women who, with their different organizations, are brought together in church capacity have peculiarities and faults. As these are developed, they will require reproof. If those who are placed in important positions never reproved, never rebuked, there would soon be a demoralized condition of things that would greatly dishonor God. But how shall the reproof be given? Let the apostle answer: “With all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. Principle should be brought to bear upon the one who needs reproof, but never should the wrongs of God’s people be passed by indifferently.

1TT 343.1

There will be men and women who despise reproof and whose feelings will ever rise up against it. It is not pleasant to be told of our wrongs. In almost every case where reproof is necessary, there will be some who entirely overlook the fact that the Spirit of the Lord has been grieved and His cause reproached. These will pity those who deserved reproof, because personal feelings have been hurt. All this unsanctified sympathy places the sympathizers where they are sharers in the guilt of the one reproved. In nine cases out of ten if the one reproved had been left under a sense of his wrongs, he might have been helped to see them and thereby have been reformed. But meddlesome, unsanctified sympathizers place altogether a wrong construction upon the motives of the reprover and the nature of the reproof given, and by sympathizing with the one reproved lead him to feel that he has been really abused; and his feelings rise up in rebellion against the one who has only done his duty. Those who faithfully discharge their unpleasant duties under a sense of their accountability to God will receive His blessing. God requires His servants to be always in earnest to do His will. In the apostle’s charge to Timothy he exhorts him to “preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” Verse 2.

From Splendor to Shadow

Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke

SS 74.3

Would that every minister might show the courage that Elijah showed! Ministers are to “convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching.” 2 Timothy 4:2, RSV. In Christ’s stead they are to encourage the obedient and warn the disobedient. With them worldly policy is to have no weight. They are to go forward in faith. They are not to speak their own words, but their message is to be, “Thus saith the Lord.” God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the Baptist—men who will bear His message regardless of consequences; men who will speak the truth though it call for the sacrifice of all they have.

From the Heart

Reject Speculation, November 23

FH 339.1

Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. 2 Timothy 4:2.

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

Lt 8, 1859

1EGWLM 706.3

Sabbath our meetings were interesting and profitable. James preached twice. Brother Hutchins talked quite freely. I bore my testimony with some freedom. Sunday, meetings commenced with a conference and prayer meeting. It was a good season. I talked—gave some little description of the sufferings of Christ. There were one hundred twenty-five present. James preached from this text: “Preach the Word.” 2 Tim 4:2. He was very clear and free. Those who heard him said they never heard the subject made so plain before. James divided his subject and finished in the afternoon. There were one hundred-fifty present. James was blessed of the Lord with liberty again. I had some freedom in exhorting at the close of the discourse.

Homeward Bound

A Transcript of God’s Will, January 6

HB 21.4

With the growing contempt for God’s law there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can be done to correct these alarming evils? The answer is found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “Preach the word.” (2 Timothy 4:2.) In the Bible are found the only safe principles of action. It is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom. It opens to our understanding the great problems of life, and to all who heed its precepts it will prove an unerring guide, keeping them from wasting their lives in misdirected effort.

Colporteur Ministry

Chapter 2—A Work Second to None

CM 9.1

To Understand Our Responsibility—There is danger of entering into commercialism and becoming so engrossed in worldly business that the truths of the word of God in their purity and power will not be brought into the life. The love of trade and gain is becoming more and more prevalent. My brethren, let your souls be truly converted. If ever there was a time when we needed to understand our responsibilities, it is now, when truth is fallen in the streets and equity cannot enter. Satan has come down with great power to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; and everything that can be shaken will be shaken, and those things that cannot be shaken will remain. The Lord is coming very soon, and we are entering into scenes of calamity. Satanic agencies, though unseen, are working to destroy human life. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall see of His grace and salvation. Christ is coming to establish His kingdom on the earth. Let our tongues be sanctified and used to glorify Him. Let us work now as we have never worked before. We are exhorted to “be instant in season, out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:2. We are to make openings for the presentation of the truth. We are to improve every opportunity of drawing souls to Christ.

Homeward Bound

Prove Yourself, July 12

HB 217.1

Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.—2 Timothy 4:2.

Homeward Bound

Duty of the Church, August 15

HB 252.3

“Whosesoever sins ye remit,” said Christ, “they are remitted; . . . and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” Christ here gives no liberty for anyone to pass judgment upon others. In the Sermon on the Mount He forbade this. It is the prerogative of God. But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty, to warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort,” the Lord says, “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” (2 Timothy 4:2.) Deal faithfully with wrongdoing. Warn every soul that is in danger. Leave none to deceive themselves. Call sin by its right name. Declare what God has said in regard to lying, Sabbathbreaking, stealing, idolatry, and every other evil. “They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:21.) If they persist in sin, the judgment you have declared from God’s word is pronounced upon them in heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown Christ; the church must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dishonors her Lord. She must say about sin what God says about it. She must deal with it as God directs, and her action is ratified in heaven. Anyone who despises the authority of the church despises the authority of Christ Himself.

With God at Dawn

Preach the Word, October 23

WGD 298.1

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 8, 1859

1LtMs, Lt 8, 1859, par. 5

Sabbath our meetings were interesting and profitable. James preached twice. Brother Hutchins talked quite freely. I bore my testimony with some freedom. Sunday, meetings commenced with a conference and prayer meeting. It was a good season. I talked—gave some little description of the sufferings of Christ. There were one hundred twenty-five present. James preached from this text: “Preach the Word.” 2 Timothy 4:2. He was very clear and free. Those who heard him said they never heard the subject made so plain before. James divided his subject and finished in the afternoon. There were one hundred-fifty present. James was blessed of the Lord with liberty again. I had some freedom in exhorting at the close of the discourse.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 7, 1859

1LtMs, Ms 7, 1859, par. 18

Mother White is quite ill with dysentery. Took her to our own house to nurse her up. Husband preached twice today. The truth was set forth in a clear, powerful manner. His text was, “Preach the Word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

1LtMs, Ms 7, 1859, par. 24

Large congregation. Good attention. Tent full. Some women with their rich silks and satins sit upon the ground just inside of the curtain. I preached from this text, “Preach the Word.” [Verse 2.]

1LtMs, Ms 7, 1859, par. 44

Prayer meeting in the morn. The church bore their testimony. Were quite free. As the people were collecting together, I exhorted the people. James preached in the morning, “Preach the Word,” etc. [2 Timothy 4:2.] In the afternoon finished the discourse. He was very clear. Many thought it was the most forcible discourse on the Sabbath they ever heard. The sofa was placed on the platform, on one side of the stand, and Sister Hutchins and self took our seats upon it. At the close of the afternoon discourse I again bore my testimony. Had some liberty. In the eve James preached again; dwelt upon the Lawgiver; was quite clear and free. There were about 175 present. Again I exhorted the people. Was free. The Lord gave me free utterance and when the series of meetings closed we felt we had done what we could. After the meeting closed, had some conversation with Sister Dana; related the wonderful dealings of God with me in past time.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 30, 1876

3LtMs, Lt 30, 1876, par. 6

Notwithstanding, I have had a very trying crisis and suffered extremely with nervous prostration, strangely unexpected and unaccountable to me. But I am now of the opinion that my much writing had brought me in a condition where I should have been very sick had I remained at home. Three days have I suffered with the most distressing headache. I am weak yet improved. Your father and I bowed together yesterday and prayed the Lord to give me strength to speak to the people. I spoke twice after dinner, and felt better than in the morning. Father is now speaking (10 o’clock) on the text “Preach the Word, etc.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] There will be after the discourse three or four ordained.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 40, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 103

God has a living testimony, not a tame, lifeless sermonizing. Men in responsible positions are not to study to meet the world’s plans, to cater to the world’s ideas, to speak smooth words and prophesy deceit. The Comforter—the Holy Spirit of God whom Christ said the Father would send in His name—with unsparing lips reproves the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. [John 14:26; 16:8.] “Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 92, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 92, 1891, par. 5

There is a work to be wrought in the heart of each one, that you may not sow tares. When the lips of the watchman are touched with a live coal from off the altar by the Lord of hosts, the trumpet will give a certain sound, very different from the sound we have hitherto heard. God has a living testimony for the world. This tame, lifeless sermonizing is not after God’s order. I appeal to you, men in responsible positions, do not seek to meet the world’s standard, to catch the world’s ideas. Do not speak smooth things, prophesying deceit. The Comforter, the Holy Spirit of God, whom “the Father shall send in my name,” said Christ, “shall convince the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment.” [John 14:26; 16:8.] The ministers of the Lord are to “reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Faithfulness in Reproving Sin

GW92 82.1

Ministers should be faithful watchmen, seeing the evil and warning the people. Their dangers must be set before them continually, and pressed home upon them. The exhortation given to Timothy was, “Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] ...

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 59a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 59a, 1893, par. 6

“Be instant in season and out of season” is ringing in my ears, to gather in a harvest of souls. [2 Timothy 4:2.] Truth must be proclaimed from the fullness of a believing heart and reveal that he is earnest and means what he says, and I have no doubts as to the issue of there being something broader and more costly, than has as yet been put forth. I cannot sleep nights. Supplications are constantly ascending from my heart day and night to the throne of grace for the Lord to send money and workers; but now I am beginning to think I must go back to America and stir up our people, for they are altogether to nigh-sighted [nearsighted]. They cannot see the wants afar off, where there is not scarcely a thing to show or give character to the work. I am contemplating the matter as to what shall be done. I may soon be on my way to America, for I am very far from accepting the situation that all the means, or nearly all, is used in America, where the truth has every possible advantage to be known. But here we cannot make even the first move in our cities.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 68, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 68, 1894, par. 11

If we work to create an excitement of feeling, we shall have all we want, and more than we can possibly know how to manage. Calmly and clearly “preach the word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] We must not regard it as our work to create an excitement. The Holy Spirit of God alone can create a healthy enthusiasm. Let God work, and let the human agent walk softly before Him, watching, waiting, praying, looking unto Jesus every moment, led and controlled by the precious Spirit which is light and life.

9LtMs, Lt 68, 1894, par. 15

God help us to move soundly, solidly, because we are eating and drinking the flesh and blood of the Son of God. “Preach the Word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] Compared with the Word, everything else is weakness itself. The Word of God is the weapon of our warfare. Educate, train the people to be doers of the Word, and they will then abide in Christ, and Christ will abide in them. Then they will discern the delusions of Satan; they will not be ignorant of his devices.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 38, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 38, 1894, par. 1

Your letter is received, and I would be glad to satisfy your mind on every point, but that is not in my power. While I can speak to you in words of warning, you may ask many questions that it is not my duty or in my power to answer. I can tell you and all our teachers of faith and doctrine, Stick to the Word. “Preach the Word; be instant in season and out of season: reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] But never, never make a place for A. T. Jones. Guard this point jealously. Do not even once take any advantage to employ ridicule or to bring against any person or any position a railing accusation. It is plainly revealed in the Word that this is not God’s plan.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 80, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 80, 1894, par. 36

“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt.” [Colossians 4:6.] I entreat our ministering brethren to “preach the Word” in short discourses that can be easily understood. [2 Timothy 4:2.] Carry your message with you in house to house labor, and roll upon men and women the responsibility, not only of hearing the Word, but of practicing it, and of communicating it to others. In harmony with Jesus’s instruction, the early disciples went everywhere telling of Christ and His resurrection from the dead. Every conversation should be seasoned with the grace of God, and all lightness, all joking, should be excluded. The Lord is at hand. Be cheerful, be thankful, but be not light and <trifling, cheap and> jovial.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 127, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 127, 1895, par. 17

Well, another point: Are you willing I should publish your books here in this country if I should see they would do good? I think it is just what the people need here, and I would use all the means coming from the sale in this country to build churches and to aid in the various ways that are demanded. Please let me know as soon as you decide this matter. I can help you to matter, and you can help me. I wish you were here. I cannot see why it is not your duty to come here and let others stand in the place you purposed in the South. Now, I do not ask you to come unless you shall yourself see light in this matter, but I want you, oh so much! I want you, if the Lord will. Where are my helpers coming from in bookmaking? Not that I want you to give yourself to this work exclusively, for the ministry is your field. Keep out of financial enterprises. Your strength is not there. “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] This is your work. In doing this you will have special help from God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 20, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 20, 1896, par. 19

Christ is saying to us, “Come unto me. Right counsel and sound judgment belong to me. I have understanding and strength for you.” By faith we must rest in Christ, remembering the words of one who inspired by God to write, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.” [Psalm 18:35.] Ask God that He will give you much of the oil of His grace. Carefully consider every word, whether it be written or spoken. “Preach the word; be instant in season and out of season,” using only the weapon which Christ used—“It is written.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 146, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 146, 1897, par. 8

Be sure to give your brethren no occasion to cherish feelings of distrust and suspicion, and justify the course taken toward you and others in methods of dealing. Walk with your eye fixed on Jesus. I would be glad to have you connect with the work in Australia if it is God’s will; but if not, I will say, “Thy will, O Lord, not mine, be done.” [See Luke 22:42.] Let your soul be stayed upon God, and whenever the light shines directing you here, come, and we will welcome you. But, my children, keep fast hold of Christ’s hand, and walk in the light as He is in the light. He has a work for you to do, and He has told you what it is—“preach the Word; be instant in season, and out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 134, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 134, 1899, par. 10

Ministers and men in responsible places are altogether too officious. Move from between God and the people, and let them view God as the all-sufficient One, and the minister as the delegated servant. Your work is to preach the Word, “to be instant in season, out of season, to reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] When the church shall come in close relationship with Christ, then they will find that which they have lost—“their first love.” [Revelation 2:4.] They will not be causing trials in the church by their wrong course of action. They will not draw upon the minister’s strength and vitality to keep them converted. If they are not bound by strong cords of love to Christ, all the ministry in the world will not help them. They will not feel that the minister of God must be continually preaching to them lest they be lost, but they will themselves work to help others, and every church member will become a living stone to emit light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 38, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 38, 1903, par. 16

Please read to your fellow workers such parts of this letter as you think will be a help to them. I feel deeply in earnest. There is a great work to be done in many places. The Lord will be with you as long as you will be with Him. When you are tried, as you will be, do not retaliate. The one who does wrong shall himself suffer for the wrong that he hath done. Do not become discouraged. There is at the present time a dearth of means. We must walk and work by faith, not by sight. The Lord will test and prove His people, and He will open ways whereby His truth shall be wonderfully advanced. The charge of Paul to Timothy, I repeat to you: “Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] May God bless you, and give you strength to walk wisely in safe paths.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 64, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 64, 1903, par. 18

They must be men of knowledge, able to instruct others. How can they speak clearly and intelligently if they have no time nor opportunity to commune with God, to seek Him in earnest prayer? They must obtain their wisdom from God. They are to be “instant in season and out of season,” always prepared for whatever they may be called to do. [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 28, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 28, 1904, par. 10

To my ministering brethren I would say, “Preach the word. Be instant in season and out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] Do not bring to the foundation wood, and hay, and stubble—your own surmisings and speculations, which can benefit no one.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 242, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 242, 1906, par. 5

“Your letter is received, and I would be glad to satisfy your mind on every point, but that is not in my power. While I can speak to you in words of warning, you may ask many questions that it is not my duty or in my power to answer. I can tell you, and all our teachers of faith and doctrine, Stick to the Word. ‘Preach the Word, be instant in season, and out of season: reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.’ [2 Timothy 4:2.] But never, never make a place for A. T. Jones. Guard this point jealously. Do not even once take any advantage to employ ridicule or to bring against any person or any position a railing accusation. It is plainly revealed in the Word, that this is not God’s plan.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 230, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, par. 9

The Lord understands all about His work in the world; He knows every secret that we must wait for the future to unfold. At this time He calls upon His people to become truly converted. To those who are engaged in a work of controversy, He says, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] The human agent is not to look to man to learn his duty. He is to place his strength and dependence on the strength and power of the One who can lead him from victory unto victory. The righteousness of Christ is to be our strength, our frontguard and our rearward.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 53, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 53, 1908, par. 5

There is danger of our brethren entering into commercialism and becoming so engrossed in worldly business, that the truths of the Word of God in their purity and power are not brought into the life. The love of trade and gain is becoming more and more prevalent. My brethren, let your souls be truly converted. If ever there was a time when we needed to understand our responsibilities, it is now, when truth is fallen in the streets and equity cannot enter. Satan has come down with great power, to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; and everything that can be shaken will be shaken, and those things that cannot be shaken will remain. The Lord is coming very soon, and we are entering into scenes of calamity. Satanic agencies, though unseen, are working to destroy human life. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we shall see of His grace and salvation. Christ is coming to establish His kingdom on the earth. Let our tongues be sanctified and used to glorify Him. Let us work now as we have never worked before. We are exhorted to “be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] We are to make openings for the presentation of the truth. We are to improve every opportunity of drawing souls to Christ.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Manner of Labor

GW92 274.1

“Be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] To be “instant in season,” is to be alert to the privileges of the house and hour of worship and to the time when men are conversing on the topics of religion. And “out of season,” when you are at the fireside, in the field, by the way-side, in the market, seek to be ready to turn the thoughts of men, in a suitable and wise manner, to the great themes of the Bible. With tender and fervent spirit urge the claims of God upon the soul. Many, many precious opportunities are allowed to slip by unimproved, because men are persuaded that it is out of season. But who knows what might be the effect of a wise appeal to the conscience, by using the word of God that will accomplish that for which God has given it? It is written, “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.” [Ecclesiastes 11:6.] He who is sowing seeds of eternal truth may bear a burdened heart, and send up prayers with supplication and tears, but he will come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Humility and Faithfulness in Laborers

GW92 449.1

The apostle Paul felt the importance of faithfulness. He says of his own ministry in Christ, “whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.] And he exhorts Timothy, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] This is in accordance with the word which through the prophet Isaiah the Lord has spoken to the watchmen on the walls of Zion: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.]

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Paul, The Apostle to the Gentiles

GW 61.2

What the church needs in these days of peril, is an army of workers who, like Paul, have educated themselves for usefulness, who have a deep experience in the things of God, and who are filled with earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacrificing men are needed; men who are brave and true; men in whose hearts Christ is formed, “the hope of glory,” [Colossians 1:27.] and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] For the want of such workers the cause of God languishes, and fatal errors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

A Warning Against False Teaching

GW 305.1

At this time we need in the cause of God spiritual-minded men, men who are firm in principle, and who have a clear understanding of the truth. I have been instructed that it is not new and fanciful doctrines nor human suppositions which the people need, but the testimony of men who know and practice the truth, men who understand and obey the charge given to Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1057—The Need to Stand Firmly, but Kindly, for Truth

13MR 319.1

I cannot hold my peace and let the flock of God be misled. But I beseech you not to let a drive be made against our brother, for this would not be right. Stand in defense of the truth; exalt the truth. God has given the erring one every encouragement to turn fully to Him. Our brother has been following his perverted judgment, and his soul has been lifted up unto vanity; but he should not be personally attacked, because it is not the right thing to do to open these opposition charges before the world. Keep to the affirmative of truth, as did Paul in his charge to Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears” [2 Timothy 4:2, 3].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 48, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 52

I beseech you to take Christ with you as you go to your churches. “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.” [2 Timothy 4:2, 3.] Many are unwilling to have their way crossed. Now, it is not by following your own way that you will enter heaven; it is by choosing God’s way. Will you take it? It is not your spirit that is going into heaven; it is Christ’s spirit. Will you have it? Jesus 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, and will sup with him, and he with me.” [Revelation 3:20.] Then I ask, How is it that so many of you are saying you do not know whether you are accepted of God or not; that you want to find Jesus? Don’t you know whether you have opened the door? Don’t you know whether you have invited him in? If you have not, invite him now. Don’t wait a moment. Open the door, and let Jesus in.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 30, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 30, 1906, par. 3

“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.” [2 Timothy 4:2, 3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 80, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 80, 1896, par. 9

Paul charged Timothy, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine; for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from hearing the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” [2 Timothy 4:2-4.] We meet this class wherever we go. When such opposers will seek to draw the attention of the people, preach the Word, present Bible arguments. That is advocating truth. Let the light of the Word shine forth in undimmed luster. The truth made plain and clear in contrast with error. Light discovers darkness and exposes human fallacies, plans, and assumptions.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 34, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 34, 1906, par. 25

The injunction of the apostle to Timothy was, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them; for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” 1 Timothy 4:16. Again Paul urges upon Timothy, “Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:2-4. This is being fulfilled in this very time, and will those who believe now be ensnared?

Counsels for the Church

Warning Against Sensational Religion

CCh 325.5

I have been instructed that it is not new and fanciful doctrines which the people need. They do not need human suppositions. They need the testimony of men who know and practice the truth, men who understand and obey the charge given to Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:2-5.

Pacific Union Recorder

December 31, 1903

PUR December 31, 1903, par. 1

I have been instructed to say that it is not new and fanciful doctrines which the people of God need. They do not need suppositions, which can not be sustained by the Word of God. They need the testimony of men who know the truth, men who understand and obey the charge given to Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:2-5.