EGW WritingsActs 16
Ellen G. White
Read Acts 16 in the BibleActs 16:1-6
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 20—Exalting the Cross
AA 201.1
After spending some time in ministry at Antioch, Paul proposed to his fellow worker that they set forth on another missionary journey. “Let us go again,” he said to Barnabas, “and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.”AA 201.2
Both Paul and Barnabas had a tender regard for those who had recently accepted the gospel message under their ministry, and they longed to see them once more. This solicitude Paul never lost. Even when in distant mission fields, far from the scene of his earlier labors, he continued to bear upon his heart the burden of urging these converts to remain faithful, “perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1. Constantly he tried to help them to become self-reliant, growing Christians, strong in faith, ardent in zeal, and wholehearted in their consecration to God and to the work of advancing His kingdom.AA 202.1
Barnabas was ready to go with Paul, but wished to take with them Mark, who had again decided to devote himself to the ministry. To this Paul objected. He “thought not good to take ... with them” one who during their first missionary journey had left them in a time of need. He was not inclined to excuse Mark’s weakness in deserting the work for the safety and comforts of home. He urged that one with so little stamina was unfitted for a work requiring patience, self-denial, bravery, devotion, faith, and a willingness to sacrifice, if need be, even life itself. So sharp was the contention that Paul and Barnabas separated, the latter following out his convictions and taking Mark with him. “So Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; and Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.”AA 202.2
Journeying through Syria and Cilicia, where they strengthened the church, Paul and Silas at length reached Derbe and Lystra in the province of Lycaonia. It was at Lystra that Paul had been stoned, yet we find him again on the scene of his former danger. He was anxious to see how those who through his labors had accepted the gospel were enduring the test of trial. He was not disappointed, for he found that the Lystrian believers had remained firm in the face of violent opposition.AA 202.3
Here Paul again met Timothy, who had witnessed his sufferings at the close of his first visit to Lystra and upon whose mind the impression then made had deepened with the passing of time until he was convinced that it was his duty to give himself fully to the work of the ministry. His heart was knit with the heart of Paul, and he longed to share the apostle’s labors by assisting as the way might open.AA 203.1
Silas, Paul’s companion in labor, was a tried worker, gifted with the spirit of prophecy; but the work to be done was so great that there was need of training more laborers for active service. In Timothy Paul saw one who appreciated the sacredness of the work of a minister; who was not appalled at the prospect of suffering and persecution; and who was willing to be taught. Yet the apostle did not venture to take the responsibility of giving Timothy, an untried youth, a training in the gospel ministry, without first fully satisfying himself in regard to his character and his past life.AA 203.2
Timothy’s father was a Greek and his mother a Jewess. From a child he had known the Scriptures. The piety that he saw in his home life was sound and sensible. The faith of his mother and his grandmother in the sacred oracles was to him a constant reminder of the blessing in doing God’s will. The word of God was the rule by which these two godly women had guided Timothy. The spiritual power of the lessons that he had received from them kept him pure in speech and unsullied by the evil influences with which he was surrounded. Thus his home instructors had co-operated with God in preparing him to bear burdens.AA 203.3
Paul saw that Timothy was faithful, steadfast, and true, and he chose him as a companion in labor and travel. Those who had taught Timothy in his childhood were rewarded by seeing the son of their care linked in close fellowship with the great apostle. Timothy was a mere youth when he was chosen by God to be a teacher, but his principles had been so established by his early education that he was fitted to take his place as Paul’s helper. And though young, he bore his responsibilities with Christian meekness.AA 204.1
As a precautionary measure, Paul wisely advised Timothy to be circumcised—not that God required it, but in order to remove from the minds of the Jews that which might be an objection to Timothy’s ministration. In his work Paul was to journey from city to city, in many lands, and often he would have opportunity to preach Christ in Jewish synagogues, as well as in other places of assembly. If it should be known that one of his companions in labor was uncircumcised, his work might be greatly hindered by the prejudice and bigotry of the Jews. Everywhere the apostle met determined opposition and severe persecution. He desired to bring to his Jewish brethren, as well as to the Gentiles, a knowledge of the gospel, and therefore he sought, so far as was consistent with the faith, to remove every pretext for opposition. Yet while he conceded this much to Jewish prejudice, he believed and taught circumcision or uncircumcision to be nothing and the gospel of Christ everything.AA 204.2
Paul loved Timothy, his “own son in the faith.” 1 Timothy 1:2. The great apostle often drew the younger disciple out, questioning him in regard to Scripture history, and as they traveled from place to place, he carefully taught him how to do successful work. Both Paul and Silas, in all their association with Timothy, sought to deepen the impression that had already been made upon his mind, of the sacred, serious nature of the work of the gospel minister.AA 205.1
In his work, Timothy constantly sought Paul’s advice and instruction. He did not move from impulse, but exercised consideration and calm thought, inquiring at every step, Is this the way of the Lord? The Holy Spirit found in him one who could be molded and fashioned as a temple for the indwelling of the divine Presence.AA 205.2
As the lessons of the Bible are wrought into the daily life, they have a deep and lasting influence upon the character. These lessons Timothy learned and practiced. He had no specially brilliant talents, but his work was valuable because he used his God-given abilities in the Master’s service. His knowledge of experimental piety distinguished him from other believers and gave him influence.AA 205.3
Those who labor for souls must attain to a deeper, fuller, clearer knowledge of God than can be gained by ordinary effort. They must throw all their energies into the work of the Master. They are engaged in a high and holy calling, and if they gain souls for their hire they must lay firm hold upon God, daily receiving grace and power from the Source of all blessing. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Titus 2:11-14.AA 205.4
Before pressing forward into new territory, Paul and his companions visited the churches that had been established in Pisidia and the regions round about. “As they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem. And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.”AA 206.1
The apostle Paul felt a deep responsibility for those converted under his labors. Above all things, he longed that they should be faithful, “that I may rejoice in the day of Christ,” he said, “that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.” Philippians 2:16. He trembled for the result of his ministry. He felt that even his own salvation might be imperiled if he should fail of fulfilling his duty and the church should fail of co-operating with him in the work of saving souls. He knew that preaching alone would not suffice to educate the believers to hold forth the word of life. He knew that line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, they must be taught to advance in the work of Christ.AA 206.2
It is a universal principle that whenever one refuses to use his God-given powers, these powers decay and perish. Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Hence the apostle’s fear that he might fail of presenting every man perfect in Christ. Paul’s hope of heaven grew dim when he contemplated any failure on his part that would result in giving the church the mold of the human instead of the divine. His knowledge, his eloquence, his miracles, his view of eternal scenes when caught up to the third heaven—all would be unavailing if through unfaithfulness in his work those for whom he labored should fail of the grace of God. And so, by word of mouth and by letter, he pleaded with those who had accepted Christ, to pursue a course that would enable them to be “blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, ... as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life.” Philippians 2:15, 16.AA 207.1
Every true minister feels a heavy responsibility for the spiritual advancement of the believers entrusted to his care, a longing desire that they shall be laborers together with God. He realizes that upon the faithful performance of his God-given work depends in a large degree the well-being of the church. Earnestly and untiringly he seeks to inspire the believers with a desire to win souls for Christ, remembering that every addition to the church should be one more agency for the carrying out of the plan of redemption.AA 207.2
Having visited the churches in Pisidia and the neighboring region, Paul and Silas, with Timothy, pressed on into “Phrygia and the region of Galatia,” where with mighty power they proclaimed the glad tidings of salvation. The Galatians were given up to the worship of idols; but, as the apostles preached to them, they rejoiced in the message that promised freedom from the thralldom of sin. Paul and his fellow workers proclaimed the doctrine of righteousness by faith in the atoning sacrifice of Christ. They presented Christ as the one who, seeing the helpless condition of the fallen race, came to redeem men and women by living a life of obedience to God’s law and by paying the penalty of disobedience. And in the light of the cross many who had never before known of the true God, began to comprehend the greatness of the Father’s love.AA 208.1
Thus the Galatians were taught the fundamental truths concerning “God the Father” and “our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.” “By the hearing of faith” they received the Spirit of God and became “the children of God by faith in Christ.” Galatians 1:3, 4; 3:2, 26.AA 208.2
Paul’s manner of life while among the Galatians was such that he could afterward say, “I beseech you, be as I am.” Galatians 4:12. His lips had been touched with a live coal from off the altar, and he was enabled to rise above bodily infirmities and to present Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. Those who heard him knew that he had been with Jesus. Endued with power from on high, he was able to compare spiritual things with spiritual and to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts were broken by his presentation of the love of God, as revealed in the sacrifice of His only-begotten Son, and many were led to inquire, What must I do to be saved?AA 208.3
This method of presenting the gospel characterized the labors of the apostle throughout his ministry among the Gentiles. Always he kept before them the cross of Calvary. “We preach not ourselves,” he declared in the later years of his experience, “but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:5, 6.AA 209.1
The consecrated messengers who in the early days of Christianity carried to a perishing world the glad tidings of salvation, allowed no thought of self-exaltation to mar their presentation of Christ and Him crucified. They coveted neither authority nor pre-eminence. Hiding self in the Saviour, they exalted the great plan of salvation, and the life of Christ, the Author and Finisher of this plan. Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever, was the burden of their teaching.AA 209.2
If those who today are teaching the word of God, would uplift the cross of Christ higher and still higher, their ministry would be far more successful. If sinners can be led to give one earnest look at the cross, if they can obtain a full view of the crucified Saviour, they will realize the depth of God’s compassion and the sinfulness of sin.AA 209.3
Christ’s death proves God’s great love for man. It is our pledge of salvation. To remove the cross from the Christian would be like blotting the sun from the sky. The cross brings us near to God, reconciling us to Him. With the relenting compassion of a father’s love, Jehovah looks upon the suffering that His Son endured in order to save the race from eternal death, and accepts us in the Beloved.AA 209.4
Without the cross, man could have no union with the Father. On it depends our every hope. From it shines the light of the Saviour’s love, and when at the foot of the cross the sinner looks up to the One who died to save him, he may rejoice with fullness of joy, for his sins are pardoned. Kneeling in faith at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can attain.AA 210.1
Through the cross we learn that the heavenly Father loves us with a love that is infinite. Can we wonder that Paul exclaimed, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ”? Galatians 6:14. It is our privilege also to glory in the cross, our privilege to give ourselves wholly to Him who gave Himself for us. Then, with the light that streams from Calvary shining in our faces, we may go forth to reveal this light to those in darkness.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 20—Paul’s Secret: Exalt the Cross
TT 107.1
After spending some time at Antioch, Paul proposed to his fellow worker Barnabas, “Come, let us return and visit the brethren in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.”TT 107.2
Both Paul and Barnabas had a tender regard for those who had accepted the gospel under their ministry, and they longed to see them once more. Even when far from the scene of his earlier labors, Paul tried to help these converts become strong in faith and wholehearted in their consecration to God.TT 107.3
Barnabas was ready to go, but wished to take Mark with them. Paul objected. He “thought best not to take with them” one who had left them during their first missionary journey for the safety and comforts of home. He urged that one with so little stamina was unfitted for a work requiring self-denial, bravery, faith, and a willingness to sacrifice even life itself. So sharp was the contention that “Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed.”TT 107.4
Paul and Silas at length reached Derbe and Lystra. It was at Lystra that Paul had been stoned, yet he was anxious to see how those who had accepted the gospel were enduring trial. He was not disappointed, for the Lystrian believers had remained firm in the face of violent opposition.TT 107.5
Here Paul again met Timothy, who was convinced that it was his duty to give himself fully to the work of the ministry. He longed to share the apostle’s labors. Silas, Paul’s companion, was a tried worker, gifted with the spirit of prophecy; but the work was so great that there was need of more laborers. In Timothy Paul saw one who appreciated the sacredness of the work and was not appalled at the prospect of persecution. Yet the apostle did not venture to take Timothy, an untried youth, without fully satisfying himself in regard to his character and past life.TT 108.1
From a child Timothy had known the Scriptures. The faith of his mother and grandmother was a constant reminder of the blessing in doing God’s will. The lessons he had received from them kept him pure in speech and unsullied by the evil influences which surrounded him. Thus his home instructors had cooperated with God in preparing him to bear burdens.TT 108.2
Paul saw that Timothy was steadfast, and he chose him as a companion in labor and travel. Those who had taught Timothy in childhood were rewarded by seeing him linked with the great apostle. Timothy was a mere youth, but he was fitted to take his place as Paul’s helper. Though young, he bore his responsibilities with Christian meekness.TT 108.3
Paul wisely advised Timothy to be circumcised in order to remove from the minds of the Jews that which might be an objection to Timothy’s ministry. If it should be known that one of his companions was uncircumcised, his work might be hindered by prejudice and bigotry. He desired to bring to his Jewish brethren, as well as to Gentiles, a knowledge of the gospel and sought to remove every pretext for opposition. Yet while he conceded this much to Jewish prejudice, he believed and taught circumcision or uncircumcision to be nothing, and the gospel of Christ everything.TT 109.1
Timothy constantly sought Paul’s advice and instruction. He exercised consideration and calm thought, inquiring at every step, Is this the way of the Lord? The Holy Spirit found in him one who could be molded and fashioned as a temple for the indwelling of the divine Presence.TT 109.2
Timothy had no specially brilliant talents, but his knowledge of experimental piety gave him influence. Those who labor for souls must throw all their energies into the work; they must lay firm hold on God, daily receiving grace and power.TT 109.3
Before pressing into new territory, Paul and his companions visited the churches in Pisidia and regions round about. “They delivered to them for observance the decisions which had been reached by the apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem. So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.”TT 109.4
The apostle Paul felt a deep responsibility for those converted under his labors. He knew that preaching alone would not suffice to educate the believers to hold forth the word of life. He knew that line upon line, here a little and there a little, they must be taught to advance in the work of Christ.TT 109.6
Every true minister feels a heavy responsibility for the believers entrusted to his care, that they shall be laborers together with God. Upon his work depends in a large degree the well-being of the church. Earnestly he seeks to inspire believers to win souls, remembering that every addition to the church should be one more agency for carrying out the plan of redemption.TT 110.3
Throughout his ministry among the Gentiles, the apostle kept before them the cross of Calvary. The consecrated messengers who carried to a perishing world the glad tidings of salvation allowed no self-exaltation to mar their presentation of Christ and Him crucified. They coveted neither authority nor preeminence. Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever, was the burden of their teaching.TT 111.1
If those who today teach the Word of God would uplift the cross of Christ higher, their ministry would be far more successful. Christ’s death proves God’s love for man. It is our pledge of salvation. To remove the cross from the Christian would be like blotting the sun from the sky. The cross brings us near to God, reconciling us to Him.TT 111.2
From the cross shines the light of the Saviour’s love, and when the sinner looks up to the One who died to save him, he may rejoice, for his sins are pardoned. Kneeling in faith at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can attain.From Trials to Triumph
How Two Women Trained a Man of God
TT 108.4
Paul loved Timothy, “my own son in the faith.” 1 Timothy 1:2. As they traveled, he carefully taught him how to do successful work, to deepen the impression already made on his mind of the sacred nature of the work of the gospel minister.TT 109.5
Whenever one refuses to use his God-given powers, these powers decay. Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Paul’s knowledge, his eloquence, his miracles—all would be unavailing if through unfaithfulness in his work those for whom he labored should fail of the grace of God. And so he pleaded with those who had accepted Christ to be “blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, ... holding fast the word of life.” Philippians 2:15, 16, RSV.From Trials to Triumph
The Cross and Righteousness by Faith
TT 110.1
Having visited the churches in Pisidia, Paul and Silas, with Timothy, pressed on into Phrygia and Galatia, where they proclaimed the glad tidings. The Galatians were given up to the worship of idols, but they rejoiced in the message that promised freedom from the thralldom of sin. Paul and his fellow workers proclaimed the doctrine of righteousness by faith in the atoning sacrifice of Christ. Seeing the helpless condition of the fallen race, Christ came to redeem men and women by living a life of obedience to God’s law and by paying the penalty of disobedience. In the light of the cross many began to comprehend the greatness of the Father’s love. “By the hearing of faith,” they received the Spirit of God and became “the children of God, by faith in Christ.” Galatians 3:2, 26.TT 110.2
Paul’s life among the Galatians was such that he could afterward say, “I beseech you, be as I am.” Galatians 4:12. He was enabled to rise above bodily infirmities and present Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. Those who heard him knew he had been with Jesus. He was able to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts were broken by his presentation of the love of God revealed in the sacrifice of His only-begotten Son.TT 111.3
Can we wonder that Paul exclaimed, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ”? Galatians 6:14. It is our privilege also to glory in the cross. Then with the light that streams from Calvary shining in our faces, we may go forth to reveal this light to those in darkness.Acts 16:1-40
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 5, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 5, 1895, par. 2
We have great reason to praise God that we have the inspired record that is given us in the book of Acts, a narrative of the works of the apostles. We have the sure word of inspiration respecting the foundation of the Christian church. The Acts of the Apostles is full of instruction and light and knowledge. As Christ’s disciples living down in the last days, in the very close of earth’s history, we have the same work to do to prepare for Christ’s second coming as they had in developing the Christian church.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 100, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 100, 1909, par. 13
The whole of the book of Acts should receive careful study. It is full of precious instruction; it records experiences in evangelistic work, the teachings of which we need in our work today. This is wonderful history; it deals with the highest education, which the students in our schools are to receive.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 72, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 72, 1911, par. 2
Recently I have been very much occupied in the work of closing up my book on the Acts of the Apostles. I think that my part of this work is about finished.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 4, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 4, 1911, par. 2
I am thankful that I can remain at home for a time, where I can be close to my helpers. Since you left, I have been very fully employed in the preparation of matter for the Life of Paul. We are trying to bring out scriptural evidences of truth, and these, we believe, will be appreciated by our people. I have been anxious to bring into this book much matter that will be of special help to our workers who may be called upon to pass through experiences similar to those that came to the early Christian church. There is, in the history of the Acts of the Apostles, much that, if appropriated in the daily life, will inspire our brethren and sisters with a desire to seek for a higher spiritual life and for greater power, and for wisdom to co-operate with heavenly intelligences in the salvation of souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 56, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 56, 1911, par. 7
While preparing the book on the Acts of the Apostles, the Lord has kept my mind in perfect peace. This book will soon be ready for publication. When this book is ready for publication, if the Lord sees fit to let me rest, I shall say Amen, and Amen. If the Lord spares my life, I will continue to write and to bear my testimony in the congregation of the people, as the Lord shall give me strength and guidance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 66, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 66, 1911, par. 7
I long for strength to do the work that must be done at this time. I would speak daily at this Long Beach camp-meeting if I could; but I have not strength to do this. I dare not consume all my strength in this meeting; for there is other important work before me. Lately I have given considerable time and effort to the work of completing the book on the Acts of the Apostles. This book is now nearly finished, and I am very thankful for this.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 243, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 243, 1899, par. 9
I would be greatly pleased could you unite with us in Australia in our work. You would understand [the work] better that anyone we could get to help me in getting out my testimonies which the people need so much. If I had more help, I would now begin to write, and finish up the New Testament history and then take up the Old Testament history. Which do you think would be the best—the revision of the Life of Paul and the Apostles from Acts through to Revelation, or the Old Testament from Solomon down to Malachi? I would be so pleased if I could have your help. Willie is called off on so many business matters that I cannot hope to have much of his time and careful planning.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 53, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4
In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 40, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 1
Luke, the writer of the book of Acts, and Theophilus, to whom it is addressed, had been pleasantly associated. From Luke, Theophilus had received much instruction and great light. Luke had been Theophilus’ teacher, and he still felt a responsibility to direct and instruct him and to sustain and protect him in his work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 244a, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 244a, 1906, par. 14
In the record of the Acts of the Apostles, we see the disciples of Jesus manifesting a Christlike activity in medical missionary work. All their efforts were put forth in the strength of the divine united with the human. Like a stream, which may be traced back to its source, their medical missionary work was so genuine that it could easily be traced back to the Great Medical Missionary. In the work of the Lord’s agencies, the one Chief Agent is recognized as the real, actuating force.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 218, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 218, 1906, par. 13
In the record of the Acts of the Apostles, we see the disciples of Jesus manifesting a Christlike activity in medical missionary work. All their efforts were put forth in the strength of the divine united with the human. Like a stream, which may be traced back to its source, their medical missionary work was so genuine that it could easily be traced back to the Great Medical Missionary. In the work of the Lord’s agencies, the one Chief Agent is recognized as the real, actuating force.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 170, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, par. 9
Let those who desire to be refreshed in mind and instructed in the truth study the history of the early church during and immediately follow the day of Pentecost. Study carefully in the book of Acts the experiences of Paul and the other apostles; for God’s people in our day must pass through similar experiences.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 124, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 124, 1909, par. 23
Let our brethren study carefully the book of Acts and see what was accomplished by the labor of the apostles through the power of the Holy Spirit. As we consecrate ourselves to the work that must be done for these last days, angels from heaven will co-operate with us. They will make the impression upon the minds of those for whom we labor, and many will be brought to a knowledge of the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 113, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, par. 6
Read Acts and learn the lessons brought to view in the first chapter and following chapters, especially the first chapter. This whole history is of importance to the setting of things in order. We need to encourage a special work to be done.Acts 16:3
The Review and Herald
May 4, 1911
RH May 4, 1911, par. 19
The apostle adapted himself to the customs and to the prejudices of those for whom he labored. This is illustrated by his course in the circumcision of Timothy. Paul was at that time on a mission to the churches, carrying with him the decision of the council at Jerusalem that this rite should not be urged upon the gentile converts. But when he decided to take with him Timothy, whose father was a Greek, he “took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters.” Acts 16:3. Had this not been done, he would have found no opportunity to preach the gospel to the Jews, who were so zealous for the ceremonial law that at one time they sought to kill Paul, merely because they thought he had taken a Greek into the temple.Acts 16:5
Christian Leadership
Loyalty
ChL 10.3
Paul’s Loyalty Established Faith of Churches—Throughout his ministry, Paul had looked to God for direct guidance. At the same time, he had been very careful to labor in harmony with the decisions of the general council at Jerusalem, and as a result the churches were “established in the faith, and increased in number daily.” Acts 16:5. And now, notwithstanding the lack of sympathy shown him by some, he found comfort in the consciousness that he had done his duty in encouraging in his converts a spirit of loyalty, generosity, and brotherly love, as revealed on this occasion in the liberal contributions which he was enabled to place before the Jewish elders.—The Acts of the Apostles, 402.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 38—Paul a Prisoner
AA 402.2
Throughout his ministry, Paul had looked to God for direct guidance. At the same time, he had been very careful to labor in harmony with the decisions of the general council at Jerusalem, and as a result the churches were “established in the faith, and increased in number daily.” Acts 16:5. And now, notwithstanding the lack of sympathy shown him by some, he found comfort in the consciousness that he had done his duty in encouraging in his converts a spirit of loyalty, generosity, and brotherly love, as revealed on this occasion in the liberal contributions which he was enabled to place before the Jewish elders.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 38—Paul’s Brethren Give Him Bad Advice
TT 210.3
Paul had taught the people “not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” 1 Corinthians 2:4. He had looked to God for direct guidance, yet he had been careful to labor in harmony with the decisions of the general council at Jerusalem. As a result, the churches were “established in the faith and increased in number daily.” Acts 16:5. Notwithstanding the lack of sympathy shown him by some, he had encouraged in his converts a spirit of loyalty, generosity, and brotherly love, as revealed in the liberal contributions he placed before the Jewish elders.Acts 16:6-7
The Acts of the Apostles
Preface
AA v.3
The abruptness with which the book of Acts closes is not accidental; it deliberately suggests that the thrilling narrative is unfinished, and that the acts of God through the Spirit are to have their sequel throughout the Christian dispensation—each successive generation adding a chapter full of beauty and power to the one that preceded it. The acts recorded in this remarkable book are in the truestsense the acts of the Spirit, for in apostolic times it was the Holy Ghost who appeared as the counselor and helper of the Christian leaders. At Pentecost the praying disciples were filled with the Spirit and preached the gospel with power. The seven men chosen as deacons were “full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom.” Acts 6:3. It was the Holy Spirit who led in the ordination of Saul (Acts 9:17); in the acceptance of Gentiles into church fellowship (Acts 10:44-47); in the separation of Barnabas and Saul for missionary work (Acts 13:2-4); in the Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15:28); and in Paul’s missionary journeys (Acts 16:6, 7). Another time when the church suffered intensely at the hands of Roman and Jewish persecutors, it was the Spirit who sustained the believers and kept them from error.Acts 16:7-40
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 21—In the Regions Beyond
AA 211.1
The time had come for the gospel to be proclaimed beyond the confines of Asia Minor. The way was preparing for Paul and his fellow workers to cross over into Europe. At Troas, on the borders of the Mediterranean Sea, “a vision appeared to Paul in the night: There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.”AA 211.2
The call was imperative, admitting of no delay. “After he had seen the vision,” declares Luke, who accompanied Paul and Silas and Timothy on the journey across to Europe, “immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; and from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony.”AA 212.1
“On the Sabbath,” Luke continues, “we went out of the city by a riverside, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshiped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened.” Lydia received the truth gladly. She and her household were converted and baptized, and she entreated the apostles to make her house their home.AA 212.2
As the messengers of the cross went about their work of teaching, a woman possessed of a spirit of divination followed them, crying, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days.”AA 212.3
This woman was a special agent of Satan and had brought to her masters much gain by soothsaying. Her influence had helped to strengthen idolatry. Satan knew that his kingdom was being invaded, and he resorted to this means of opposing the work of God, hoping to mingle his sophistry with the truths taught by those who were proclaiming the gospel message. The words of recommendation uttered by this woman were an injury to the cause of truth, distracting the minds of the people from the teachings of the apostles and bringing disrepute upon the gospel, and by them many were led to believe that the men who spoke with the Spirit and power of God were actuated by the same spirit as this emissary of Satan.AA 212.4
For some time the apostles endured this opposition; then under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost Paul commanded the evil spirit to leave the woman. Her immediate silence testified that the apostles were the servants of God and that the demon had acknowledged them to be such and had obeyed their command.AA 213.1
Dispossessed of the evil spirit and restored to her right mind, the woman chose to become a follower of Christ. Then her masters were alarmed for their craft. They saw that all hope of receiving money from her divinations and soothsayings was at an end and that their source of income would soon be entirely cut off if the apostles were allowed to continue the work of the gospel.AA 213.2
Many others in the city were interested in gaining money through satanic delusions, and these, fearing the influence of a power that could so effectually stop their work, raised a mighty cry against the servants of God. They brought the apostles before the magistrates with the charge: “These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, and teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.”AA 213.3
Stirred by a frenzy of excitement, the multitude rose against the disciples. A mob spirit prevailed and was sanctioned by the authorities, who tore the outer garments from the apostles and commanded that they should be scourged. “And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely: who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.”AA 213.4
The apostles suffered extreme torture because of the painful position in which they were left, but they did not murmur. Instead, in the utter darkness and desolation of the dungeon, they encouraged each other by words of prayer and sang praises to God because they were found worthy to suffer shame for His sake. Their hearts were cheered by a deep and earnest love for the cause of their Redeemer. Paul thought of the persecution he had been instrumental in bringing upon the disciples of Christ, and he rejoiced that his eyes had been opened to see, and his heart to feel, the power of the glorious truths which once he despised.AA 214.1
With astonishment the other prisoners heard the sound of prayer and singing issuing from the inner prison. They had been accustomed to hear shrieks and moans, cursing and swearing, breaking the silence of the night; but never before had they heard words of prayer and praise ascending from that gloomy cell. Guards and prisoners marveled and asked themselves who these men could be, who, cold, hungry, and tortured, could yet rejoice.AA 214.2
Meanwhile the magistrates returned to their homes, congratulating themselves that by prompt and decisive measures they had quelled a tumult. But on the way they heard further particulars concerning the character and work of the men they had sentenced to scourging and imprisonment. They saw the woman who had been freed from satanic influence and were struck by the change in her countenance and demeanor. In the past she had caused the city much trouble; now she was quiet and peaceable. As they realized that in all probability they had visited upon two innocent men the rigorous penalty of the Roman law they were indignant with themselves and decided that in the morning they would command that the apostles be privately released and escorted from the city, beyond the danger of violence from the mob.AA 215.1
But while men were cruel and vindictive, or criminally negligent of the solemn responsibilities devolving upon them, God had not forgotten to be gracious to His servants. All heaven was interested in the men who were suffering for Christ’s sake, and angels were sent to visit the prison. At their tread the earth trembled. The heavily bolted prison doors were thrown open; the chains and fetters fell from the hands and feet of the prisoners; and a bright light flooded the prison.AA 215.2
The keeper of the jail had heard with amazement the prayers and songs of the imprisoned apostles. When they were led in, he had seen their swollen and bleeding wounds, and had himself caused their feet to be fastened in the stocks. He had expected to hear from them bitter groans and imprecations, but he heard instead songs of joy and praise. With these sounds in his ears the jailer had fallen into a sleep from which he was awakened by the earthquake and the shaking of the prison walls.AA 215.3
Starting up in alarm, he saw with dismay that all the prison doors were open, and the fear flashed upon him that the prisoners had escaped. He remembered with what explicit charge Paul and Silas had been entrusted to his care the night before, and he was certain that death would be the penalty of his apparent unfaithfulness. In the bitterness of his spirit he felt that it was better for him to die by his own hand than to submit to a disgraceful execution. Drawing his sword, he was about to kill himself, when Paul’s voice was heard in the words of cheer, “Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.” Every man was in his place, restrained by the power of God exerted through one fellow prisoner.AA 216.1
The severity with which the jailer had treated the apostles had not aroused their resentment. Paul and Silas had the spirit of Christ, not the spirit of revenge. Their hearts, filled with the love of the Saviour, had no room for malice against their persecutors.AA 216.2
The jailer dropped his sword and, calling for lights, hastened into the inner dungeon. He would see what manner of men these were who repaid with kindness the cruelty with which they had been treated. Reaching the place where the apostles were, and casting himself before them, he asked their forgiveness. Then, bringing them out into the open court, he inquired, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”AA 216.3
The jailer had trembled as he beheld the wrath of God manifested in the earthquake; when he thought that the prisoners had escaped he had been ready to die by his own hand; but now all these things seemed of little consequence compared with the new, strange dread that agitated his mind, and his desire to possess the tranquillity and cheerfulness shown by the apostles under suffering and abuse. He saw in their countenances the light of heaven; he knew that God had interposed in a miraculous manner to save their lives; and with peculiar force the words of the spirit-possessed woman came to his mind: “These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation.”AA 217.1
With deep humility he asked the apostles to show him the way of life. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house,” they answered; and “they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.” The jailer then washed the wounds of the apostles and ministered to them, after which he was baptized by them, with all his household. A sanctifying influence diffused itself among the inmates of the prison, and the minds of all were opened to listen to the truths spoken by the apostles. They were convinced that the God whom these men served had miraculously released them from bondage.AA 217.2
The citizens of Philippi had been greatly terrified by the earthquake, and when in the morning the officers of the prison told the magistrates of what had occurred during the night, they were alarmed and sent the sergeants to liberate the apostles. But Paul declared, “They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.”AA 217.3
The apostles were Roman citizens, and it was unlawful to scourge a Roman, save for the most flagrant crime, or to deprive him of his liberty without a fair trial. Paul and Silas had been publicly imprisoned, and they now refused to be privately released without the proper explanation on the part of the magistrates.AA 217.4
When this word was brought to the authorities, they were alarmed for fear that the apostles would complain to the emperor, and going at once to the prison, they apologized to Paul and Silas for the injustice and cruelty done them and personally conducted them out of the prison, entreating them to depart from the city. The magistrates feared the apostles’ influence over the people, and they also feared the Power that had interposed in behalf of these innocent men.AA 218.1
Acting upon the instruction given by Christ, the apostles would not urge their presence where it was not desired. “They went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.”AA 218.2
The apostles did not regard as in vain their labors in Philippi. They had met much opposition and persecution; but the intervention of Providence in their behalf, and the conversion of the jailer and his household, more than atoned for the disgrace and suffering they had endured. The news of their unjust imprisonment and miraculous deliverance became known through all that region, and this brought the work of the apostles to the notice of a large number who otherwise would not have been reached.AA 218.3
Paul’s labors at Philippi resulted in the establishment of a church whose membership steadily increased. His zeal and devotion, and, above all, his willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake, exerted a deep and lasting influence upon the converts. They prized the precious truths for which the apostles had sacrificed so much, and gave themselves with wholehearted devotion to the cause of their Redeemer.AA 218.4
That this church did not escape persecution is shown by an expression in Paul’s letter to them. He says, “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me.” Yet such was their steadfastness in the faith that he declares, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:29, 30, 3-5.AA 219.1
Terrible is the struggle that takes place between the forces of good and of evil in important centers where the messengers of truth are called upon to labor. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood,” declares Paul, “but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Ephesians 6:12. Till the close of time there will be a conflict between the church of God and those who are under the control of evil angels.AA 219.2
The early Christians were often called to meet the powers of darkness face to face. By sophistry and by persecution the enemy endeavored to turn them from the true faith. At the present time, when the end of all things earthly is rapidly approaching, Satan is putting forth desperate efforts to ensnare the world. He is devising many plans to occupy minds and to divert attention from the truths essential to salvation. In every city his agencies are busily organizing into parties those who are opposed to the law of God. The archdeceiver is at work to introduce elements of confusion and rebellion, and men are being fired with a zeal that is not according to knowledge.AA 220.1
Wickedness is reaching a height never before attained, and yet many ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” But God’s faithful messengers are to go steadily forward with their work. Clothed with the panoply of heaven, they are to advance fearlessly and victoriously, never ceasing their warfare until every soul within their reach shall have received the message of truth for this time.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 21—Angels Open a Philippian Prison
TT 112.1
The time had come for the gospel to be proclaimed in Europe. At Troas “a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing beseeching him and saying, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’”TT 112.2
The call was imperative. “When he had seen the vision,” declares Luke, who accompanied Paul, Silas, and Timothy to Europe, “immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them... . Therefore ... we made ... voyage ... to Philippi.”TT 112.3
“On the Sabbath,” Luke continues, “we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart.” Lydia and her household received the truth gladly and were baptized.TT 112.4
As the messengers of the cross went about their work, a woman followed them, crying, “‘These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.’ And this she did for many days.” This woman was a special agent of Satan and had brought her masters much gain by soothsaying. Satan knew his kingdom was invaded, and he hoped to mingle his sophistry with the truths taught by those proclaiming the gospel. The words of recommendation uttered by this woman were an injury to the cause of truth, bringing disrepute on the gospel; and by them many were led to believe that the apostles were actuated by the same spirit as this emissary of Satan.TT 113.1
For some time the apostles endured this. Then Paul commanded the evil spirit to leave the woman. Her immediate silence testified that the demon acknowledged the apostles to be the servants of God. Dispossessed of the evil spirit and restored to her right mind, the woman chose to follow Christ. Then her masters were alarmed. All hope of receiving money from her divinations was at an end. Their income would soon be entirely cut off if the apostles were allowed to continue.TT 113.2
Many others in the city were interested in gaining money through satanic delusions, and these brought the servants of God before the magistrates with the charge: “These men are Jews and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs which it is not lawful for us Romans to accept or practice.”TT 113.3
A mob spirit prevailed, and the authorities commanded that the apostles should be scourged. “They threw them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.”TT 113.4
The apostles suffered extreme torture, but they did not murmur. Instead, in the darkness of the dungeon, they encouraged each other and sang praises to God. Their hearts were cheered by a deep love for their Redeemer. Paul thought of the persecution he had brought on the disciples of Christ and rejoiced that his heart had been opened to feel the power of the glorious truths which once he despised.TT 113.5
With astonishment the other prisoners heard the sound of prayer and singing from the inner prison. They had been accustomed to hear shrieks, moans, and swearing, but never words of prayer and praise from the gloomy cell. Guards and prisoners marveled. Who could these men be, who, cold, hungry, and tortured, could yet rejoice?TT 114.1
On the way to their homes the magistrates heard further particulars concerning the men they had sentenced to scourging and imprisonment. They saw the woman who had been freed from satanic influence and were struck by the change in her countenance and demeanor. Now she was quiet and peaceable. They were indignant with themselves and decided that in the morning they would command that the apostles be privately released and escorted from the city, beyond danger from the mob.TT 114.2
But while men were criminally negligent of their solemn responsibilities, God had not forgotten His servants who were suffering for Christ’s sake. Angels were sent to the prison. At their tread the earth trembled. The heavily bolted prison doors were thrown open, the chains and fetters fell from the prisoners, and a bright light flooded the prison.TT 114.3
The keeper of the jail had heard the prayers and songs of the imprisoned apostles. He had seen their swollen, bleeding wounds, and had himself caused their feet to be fastened in the stocks. He had expected to hear bitter groans and imprecations, but heard instead songs of joy. With these sounds in his ears the jailer had fallen asleep.TT 114.4
He was awakened by the earthquake and the shaking of prison walls. In alarm he saw that all the prison doors were open, and the fear flashed on him that the prisoners had escaped. Paul and Silas had been entrusted to his care the night before, and he was certain that death would be the penalty of his apparent unfaithfulness. It was better to die by his own hand than submit to a disgraceful execution.TT 114.5
He was about to kill himself when Paul’s voice was heard, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” Every man was in place, restrained by the power of God. The apostles had not resented the severe treatment by the jailer. Filled with the love of the Saviour, they had no room for malice.TT 115.1
The jailer, calling for lights, hastened into the inner dungeon. What manner of men were these who repaid cruelty with kindness? Casting himself before the apostles, he asked their forgiveness. Then, bringing them out into the open court, he inquired, “Men, what must I do to be saved?”TT 115.2
All things seemed of little consequence compared with his desire to possess the tranquillity and cheerfulness shown by the apostles under abuse. He saw in their countenances the light of heaven, and with peculiar force the words of the woman came to his mind: “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” He asked the disciples to show him the way of life.TT 115.3
“Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household,” the apostles answered. And “they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all that were in his house.” The jailer then washed the wounds of the apostles and was baptized by them, with all his household. The minds of the inmates of the prison were opened to listen to the apostles. The God whom these men served had miraculously released them from bondage.TT 115.4
The citizens of Philippi had been terrified by the earthquake, and when in the morning the officers of the prison told the magistrates of what had occurred during the night, they sent the sergeants to liberate the apostles. But Paul declared, “They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and do they now cast us out secretly? No! let them come themselves and take us out.”TT 116.1
It was unlawful to scourge a Roman, save for flagrant crime, or to deprive him of liberty without a trial. Paul and Silas, publicly imprisoned, now refused to be privately released without proper explanation on the part of the magistrates.TT 116.2
The authorities were alarmed. Would the apostles complain to the emperor? Going at once to the prison, they apologized to Paul and Silas and personally conducted them out of the prison. They feared the apostles’ influence over the people, and they also feared the Power that had interposed in their behalf.TT 116.3
The apostles would not urge their presence where it was not desired. “They went out of the prison, and visited Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they exhorted them and departed.”TT 116.4
The apostles had met opposition and persecution in Philippi, but the conversion of the jailer and his household more than atoned for the disgrace and suffering they had endured. The news of their unjust imprisonment and miraculous deliverance became known through all that region and brought the work of the apostles to the notice of a large number who otherwise would not have been reached.TT 117.1
The early Christians were often called to meet the powers of darkness face to face. At the present time, when the end of all things earthly is rapidly approaching, Satan is devising many plans to occupy minds and divert attention from the truths essential to salvation. In every city his agencies are busily organizing those opposed to the law of God. The archdeceiver is at work to introduce elements of confusion and rebellion.TT 117.2
Wickedness is reaching a height never before attained, and yet many ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” But clothed with the panoply of heaven, God’s faithful messengers are to advance fearlessly and victoriously, never ceasing their warfare until every soul within their reach shall have received the message of truth for this time.From Trials to Triumph
Paul’s Example Became a Lasting Influence
TT 116.5
Paul’s labors at Philippi resulted in a church whose membership steadily increased. His willingness to suffer for Christ exerted a lasting influence on the converts. They gave themselves with wholehearted devotion to the cause of their Redeemer. Such was their steadfastness in the faith that Paul declared, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:3-5.TT 116.6
Terrible is the struggle that takes place between the forces of good and evil. “We are not contending against flesh and blood,” declares Paul, “but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness.” Ephesians 6:12, RSV. Till the close of time there will be conflict between the church and those who are under the control of evil angels.Acts 16:9
Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Answering the Macedonian Cry
2TT 328.2
Never was there greater need of earnest, self-sacrificing labor in the cause of Christ than now, when the hours of probation are fast closing and the last message of mercy is to be given to the world. My soul is stirred within me as the Macedonian cry comes from every direction, from the cities and villages of our own land, from across the Atlantic and the broad Pacific, and from the islands of the sea: “Come over, ... and help us.” Acts 16:9. Brethren and sisters, will you answer the cry? saying: “We will do our best, both in sending you missionaries and money. We will deny ourselves in the embellishment of our houses, in the adornment of our persons, and in the gratification of appetite. We will give the means entrusted to us into the cause of God, and we will devote ourselves also unreservedly to His work.” The wants of the cause are laid before us; the empty treasuries appeal to us most pathetically for help. One dollar now is of more value to the work than ten dollars will be at some future period.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 31, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 31, 1894, par. 36
The Macedonian cry is coming from every quarter of the world, and men are saying, “Come over and help us” [Acts 16:9], and why is there not a decided response? Thousands ought to be constrained by the Spirit of Christ to follow the example of Him who has given His life for the life of the world. Why decline to make decided self-denying efforts in order to instruct those who know not the truth for this time? The chief Missionary came to our world, and He has gone before us to show us the way in which we should work. No one can mark out a precise line for those who would be witnesses for Christ. Those who have means are doubly responsible, for the means has been entrusted to them of God, and they are to feel their accountability to forward the work of God in its various branches.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 43a, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 19
Well, here is God’s money. How much better to say, Here I see that man eating his house in liquor, eating the very substance, which should go to his family in smoking. Now you are taking this portion which my brother uses, or my brethren, and you are putting it into God’s treasury. And then there is a meeting house to be built; here is a church to be organized; here is a company sending the Macedonian cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] In our cities you could send scores of laborers and support them in the field if man would only sacrifice the idol of tobacco. Professed Christians stand off in their slavery and say, I can’t overcome it. No, I cannot, but through Jesus Christ you can overcome; through the merits of the blood of Christ you can sweep away this deadly evil which is corrupting our earth and corrupting our youth; and parents are giving their appetites and passions as an inheritance to their children, and they are weaker in moral power than they themselves are to resist the contaminating influence that is upon our earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 132, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 132, 1897, par. 11
Missionaries are planting the standard of truth in foreign lands. Publications must be multiplied, and scattered like the leaves of autumn. These silent messengers are enlightening and molding the minds of thousands in every country and in every clime. As a people, we come far short of moving forward as fast as the providence of God opens the way. He has given us the command, “Go forward.” [Exodus 14:15.] Thousands are thirsting for living truth. The Macedonian cry is coming to us from every direction, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] We look about us, and inquire, “Who will go?” One and another may respond, “Here am I, Lord, send me, I long to do something for my Master.” [See Isaiah 6:8.] But to do this requires money.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 92, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 92, 1897, par. 20
In all New South Wales we have but one minister. We have no money to pay for ministers. What does this mean? Fields are opening all around us, but there is no one to fill the places. For miles around they are sending for ministers to come to baptisms. People are accepting the truth through reading Great Controversy. One, writing, says, “I wish to be baptized. My father, two daughters, one son, and my neighbors are interested. Will you send a minister? Some of my neighbors have received the truth, and wish to be baptized.” Here about one hundred and fifty miles from Sydney we hear the Macedonian cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] But what can we do?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 7a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 7a, 1897, par. 7
Now you can see why I must use the income from my books to the best advantage for advancing the work here. I see so many things that must be done in order to make even a beginning, to raise the standard in these new fields. From every direction I hear the Macedonian cry for help, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] I also have calls to assist young people to attend school, and also to open primary schools in different localities, where the children may be educated. This is work that must be done.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 118, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 15
Three hundred miles from Sydney, the Macedonian cry comes to us, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] One letter received from a young man twenty-two years of age says, “We are poor, but we have a minister. We had the loan of Great Controversy, and in that book we found that we are not keeping the right day, that the seventh day is the Sabbath, and not the first day of the week.” The eldest son began to keep the Sabbath. Then his two sisters and three brothers came into the truth. The opposition from the father was very strong. Some of their neighbors were interested, and they thought would embrace the truth and be baptized. He said they were all paying tithes, and he would pay part of his fare if a minister could be sent.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 128, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 128, 1898, par. 8
The people of this place and the surrounding suburbs are as sheep without a shepherd. Before we went to Queensland, there were represented to me different parties in the different suburbs, and I seemed to hear the Macedonian cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] The words were spoken, “There are scattered sheep without a shepherd.” [See Mark 6:34.] If we could have workers and means sufficient to carry forward the work which the situation of the people demands, we should have churches established in all these central colonies. Some cities like Brisbane, scattered over a large territory, should have two small churches to accommodate the people. To this end we mean to work. May the Lord help the churches now established to become lightbearers to the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 189, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 189, 1899, par. 5
I feel sure that this is one of the places from which came such importunate appeals for help. The words I heard were, “Come and help us.” [See Acts 16:9.] Then One who looked upon them with pity said, “They are as sheep having no shepherd.” [Matthew 9:36.] The shepherds do not feed the sheep. From the light God has given me, the work in Maitland must be carried on perseveringly, for the Lord has many precious souls to be saved there. And the way is prepared for us. We have a policeman attending all the meetings he possibly can. He says he never heard such teachings, and yet they are all in the Bible. He is completely ignorant of the meaning of the Word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 192, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 192, 1899, par. 17
I see a great work to be done in Maitland. This field seems to open before us as the most favorable of any field we have entered in Australia. There are many churches of all orders, but the spiritual life and health seems to have departed from them. The ministers entertain their people with the African war. This people was presented to me as a people hungry for that spiritual food they did not receive. One year ago companies were presented before me. There were large companies and small companies, and some of these companies seemed to be the most intelligent and earnest people, and I was informed by my teacher that the Lord loved all of these souls. Of some He said, “They shall be witnesses of the truth. They will receive light to impart light.” I was shown small settlements and a poorer class of people, humble laborers, and they must have help. Some were trying to search the Scriptures, but were perplexed and could not understand, and they were saying, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 203, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 203, 1899, par. 5
The Lord gave me freedom in speaking, and I beheld before me the faces of many of those presented to me in a dream, calling, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Before Christ left His disciples, He commissioned them to preach the gospel to all nations, tongues, and peoples. He knew that the gospel was the hope of mankind. He died to relieve the spiritual necessities of the fallen race. He hears their every sigh, knows their every longing for salvation. He declared, “And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] For the joy that was set before Him, He died on the cross. The Son of the living God became a sin-offering for the world. In that act the heart of Christ was given to the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 22a, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 22a, 1889, par. 5
We must also consider the great demand there is for means to be invested in the vital interests of the cause of God in the new fields opening in every direction. Not only are there calls for labor in different parts of our own country and especially in our large cities, but from Europe the Macedonian cry is heard, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Is it wise then to create new burdens for God’s servants to carry? Should the Mount Vernon Sanitarium be allowed to cripple other branches of the work? Is God pleased with your inventions? Is it in His order to have this institution brought into existence to consume means, to require time and perplexing thought, when there is already an institution accessible and when there is so much work pressing upon us that has more direct reference to the salvation of souls?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 194, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 194, 1899, par. 11
If I had never been convinced that Cooranbong was the place selected by God for our school, and as an important missionary center, I should have no doubt now. O how deeply was this matter impressed upon my mind one year ago, when I was considering whether I should be able to attend the camp meeting in Brisbane, Queensland. In the night season there was presented before me large and small companies. Some were in prayer. Some were trying to read their Bibles, and could not understand them. With perplexed minds and sorrowful hearts they were saying, “Who can explain the Scriptures to us?” Others with outstretched arms were saying, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] One stood by my side and said, These are as ignorant of the truth for this time and its important relation to them as if they had not the Word of God. They are as sheep without a shepherd. The shepherds feed themselves, but feed not the flock with pure provender, thoroughly winnowed from the chaff. I have a people here. Seek for them. Open My Word to them line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. These are as children in understanding; therefore be not discouraged at their slow efforts to take in the truth. The husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and the latter rain.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 25, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 25, 1899, par. 13
The members of the church of God in every place are organized in order that they may do their work intelligently in church capacity. They must realize the fact that if they constitute members of Christ’s body, of His flesh and of His blood, they are to receive from the living head capabilities, light, and efficiency to bless the world. Missionary responsibilities are to be studied, information is to be obtained and seriously considered. What can the church do in this time of peril and obligation, as the Macedonian cry comes from every quarter, “Come over and help us”? [Acts 16:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 212, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 212, 1900, par. 11
There is in every city and every suburb a work to be done in presenting the last message to a fallen world. And while we are trying to work these destitute fields at our door, the cry comes from far-off lands, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] These are not so easily reached, and perhaps not so ready for the harvest as fields nearer our sight; but they must not be neglected. We want to push the triumphs of the cross. Our watch word is to be: Onward, Ever Onward. Our burden for the “regions beyond” [2 Corinthians 10:16] can never be laid down until the whole earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 90, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 90, 1900, par. 32
There have been represented to me companies of people, some larger in numbers and some smaller, who were anxiously thirsting for more spiritual light and great knowledge of the Scriptures. Some were praying most earnestly; others, with out-reaching hands, were looking imploring, saying, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Others were weeping and praying for the truth to come to them, and a messenger from heaven said, “These are sheep that have no shepherd. They are not fed with the Bread of Life.” I thank God that quite a number have been converted. That is good fruit. And precious souls are hungering for more truth—souls who have heard, received, and are rejoicing in the truth. My heart is weighted down with the burden of souls. May God help us is my most earnest prayer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 58, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 58, 1902, par. 4
We are living in a most important and solemn time. On every side there stand open doors for the entrance of the truth. From every country is heard the call, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] There is a work to do in our large cities. The higher classes are to hear the message of warning. This work takes means. Hall rent is high, and there are many other expenses. But because of this, shall the work be left undone? Shall those of our people who own houses besides the one they occupy leave these houses unsold, when by selling them, and investing the means in the Lord’s work, they could prepare the way for His coming? Shall we retain our possessions till the angel of mercy ceases to plead and the door is shut?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 147, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 147, 1902, par. 11
The world is looking on with gratification at the disunion among Christians. Infidelity is well pleased. God calls for a change among His people. Agents of mercy are needed, not merely in a few places, but throughout the world. Men and women in this field should be preparing for service in distant lands. From every country is heard the cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Rich and poor are calling for light. Money and workers are needed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 242, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 242, 1902, par. 1
We are standing on the verge of the eternal world. Before us there lies a great work—the work of giving the last warning message to the world. The present is a time of overwhelming iniquity. The world needs to see in Christians an evidence of the power of Christianity. There should be many, many more at work in the Lord’s service, clothed with holy zeal, filled with a power proportionate to the importance of the message they are proclaiming. Not merely in a few places, but throughout the world, messengers of mercy are needed. From every country is heard the cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Rich and poor are calling for light. Money and workers are needed. Thousands of men and women are standing on the brink of perdition. Do you see them, many of them lost, eternally lost, while professing Christians sleep the sleep of indifference?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 3a, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 3a, 1903, par. 14
This world is our training school. Here we are to learn how to exercise the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. To those who receive Him Christ gives power to become the sons of God. Here we are to prepare for the higher grade, the school above. If we live the life of Christ in this world we shall be ready to unite with the loyal and true in the higher school. I do not want any one to withhold gifts from foreign fields, but I do urge our people no longer to dishonor God by leaving untouched fields such as New York and other large cities. No longer refuse to listen to the call, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] In America thousands of people die every day without having heard the last warning message.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 150, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 150, 1903, par. 1
The Lord’s people are not to tie up the means He has entrusted to them by the purchase of land or buildings in the city. Rather are they to sell that they have and place in the Lord’s storehouse the means that they can spare. For this means, needy, unworked fields are calling. From many lands is sounding the cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 157, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 157, 1903, par. 2
In every part of the world a message is to be proclaimed in the power of the Spirit. Not with tame, lifeless utterance is it to be given, but with clear, decided, stirring tones. Hundreds are waiting for the warning to escape for their lives and lay hold on the hope set before them in the gospel. The world needs to see in Christians an evidence of the power of Christianity. There should be many more at work in the Lord’s service, clothed with holy zeal, filled with a power proportionate to the importance of the message they proclaim. Not merely in a few places, but throughout the world, messengers of mercy are needed. From every country is heard the cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Rich and poor are calling for light. Thousands of men and women are standing on the brink of perdition. Do you see them, many of them lost, eternally lost, while professing Christians sleep the sleep of indifference?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 22, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 22, 1889, par. 6
It is not the most important part of an enterprise to erect a building in which to treat the sick; there is still a necessity of securing wise, competent, discreet managers, and of securing proper facilities to make a complete success of the institution. In our experience with the [Battle Creek] Sanitarium and the [Rural] Health Retreat, we have learned how difficult a thing it is to secure all these essential things. It takes years to equip an institution and to place it in good running order. We cannot find everywhere men like Dr. [J. H.] Kellogg to manage such institutions. It is a heavy load for someone to carry, to undertake the management of an enterprise like that and make it a success. This affair in Mount Vernon seems still more unadvised when you see what a great demand there is for both men and means in matters of vital interest connected with the cause of truth. There are new fields opening up on every side. Not only from home but also from foreign fields, the Macedonian cry is heard, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] Would it be wise to allow this enterprise in Mount Vernon to cripple other and more important branches of the work? Is God pleased with such inventions? Is it in His order that this institution has been brought into existence to consume means and time and to perplex the servants of God, hindering them from working for the salvation of souls, when there is already an institution to do the work for which this has professedly been established? If such an institution is not run wisely, it will only work against the truth.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Chief Missionary, February 1
JNN 40.1
And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”—Acts 16:9Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 10, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 10, 1889, par. 9
This is a conference where advancement will be made, but O, the want of workers! How my heart aches as I think of it. Calls for help come from every quarter. The Macedonian cry is coming in, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] We need to offer up most earnest prayer that the Lord will send laborers into His vineyard. He can Himself make a selection in His divine wisdom that will put our wisdom in the shade, but whatever God does we want to accept willingly. It is a solemn time; we are trying to the best of our ability to impress the people with the weight of their responsibility. Oh, for the baptism of the Holy Spirit to come upon the workers that they may represent Jesus Christ in all their labors. Oh, why is there so great weakness now when we need strength and power to save souls that are perishing around us. There is a world to be reached, a world to be tested, and who shall be able to stand?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 2, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 2, 1891, par. 12
May the Lord arouse His people to action is my prayer. There is need for every individual member of the church to arouse to work for Jesus. The calls are coming in from every clime, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] “The Spirit and the Bride say Come, and let him that is athirst come, and whosoever will, let him come and take of the waters of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.] There is our work laid out in a comprehensive manner for the diffusion of the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 77, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 77, 1893, par. 48
A great work is before us. There are a few who carry the heavy burden of responsibility. They feel that God has committed to our American churches a solemn trust in the message of truth to be given to the world. From all nations the Macedonian cry is heard, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] God in His providence has opened fields before us, and if the human agents cooperated with the divine agencies, many souls may be made partakers of a pure and saving faith. For years the appeal has been made, but the Lord’s professed people have been sleeping over their allotted work, and it remains almost untouched.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 79, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 79, 1893, par. 5
Ministers are needed. The Macedonian cry is coming in from different places, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] There should be missionaries in all these fields; and there is no reason, that the Lord will accept, why there are not. Those who have the truth should have a deep interest for the souls of their fellow men and labor unselfishly for their salvation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 83, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 83, 1893, par. 3
Friday we can do but little. Tired, very tired with the pressure of the writing we have felt constrained to prepare to [send] in this mail, just gone on its way across the broad waters to America. Again it bears from us the Macedonian cry, “Come over and help us.” [Acts 16:9.] We have implored that means should be sent to us whereby we can obtain facilities wherewith to work. We have not had means, neither have we had workers. The Lord give us patience and courage that will not fail us when sorely tempted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 1, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 1, 1894, par. 4
We see that there is a large work to be done. On every side the Macedonian cry is heard, “Come over and help us” [Acts 16:9], but poverty of means and of workers hedges up the way. Brother Collins is now at work at Leightheart trying to sell our smaller publications. While at Dora Creek, he found many excellent souls scattered all through that region. He was asked to take a part in a newly built little church near the sawmill, which we passed on our way to get the oranges. He said that he gave Bible readings and that all were deeply interested. Those who have little money bought Steps to Christ and other small books. Here is another field to be worked, and we believe a church will be raised up if the right kind of labor is put forth. But poverty is found everywhere. Many would like to have the books who cannot purchase them, and I am going to create a fund so that those who cannot buy may have the books free of charge. If they cannot have the living preacher, they must have the silent messenger of truth. If you see those who would consider it a privilege to contribute to this fund, please accept and forward their donations. You may thus become a missionary in doing a good work. Tell the people that I invited them to aid me in this missionary project. I will invest twenty-five dollars to start this fund. The Lord is soon to come, and oh how few are being warned! How few are being placed in the living channel of light! We must all do what we can.Acts 16:14-15
Reflecting Christ
Lydia’s Hospitality, November 25
RC 343.1
A certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, ... heard us.... And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us. Acts 16:14, 15.Acts 16:14-40
Daughters of God
Lydia
DG 72.5
Lydia was a merchant woman from Thyatira who traded in expensive purple cloth. She also was a worshiper of God and extended her hospitality to the disciples.DG 73.1
The time had come for the gospel to be proclaimed beyond the confines of Asia Minor.... The call was imperative, admitting of no delay.... [said Luke,] “We came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; and from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony.”DG 73.2
“On the Sabbath,” Luke continues, “we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened.” Lydia received the truth gladly. She and her household were converted and baptized, and she entreated the apostles to make her house their home.—The Acts of the Apostles, 211, 212 (1911).DG 73.3
God’s Spirit can only enlighten the understanding of those who are willing to be enlightened. We read that God opened the ears of Lydia, so that she attended to the message spoken by Paul. To declare the whole counsel of God and all that was essential for Lydia to receive—this was the part Paul was to act in her conversion; and then the God of all grace exercised His power, leading the soul in the right way. God and the human agent cooperated, and the work was wholly successful.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 6:1062 (1900).DG 73.4
Acting upon the instruction given by Christ, the apostles would not urge their presence where it was not desired. “They went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.”—The Acts of the Apostles, 218 (1911).Acts 16:16-18
From Here to Forever
Guardian Angels
HF 318.1
For the sake of obtaining supernatural power, some welcomed the satanic influence. These of course had no conflict with the demons. Of this class were those who possessed the spirit of divination—Simon Magus, Elymas the sorcerer, and the damsel who followed Paul and Silas at Philippi. See Acts 8:9, 18; 13:8; 16:16-18.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Evil Angels Oppose God’s Plans
GrH_c 8.2
For the sake of obtaining supernatural power, some welcomed the satanic influence. These of course had no conflict with the demons. Of this class were those who possessed the spirit of divination—Simon Magus, Elymas the sorcerer, and the damsel who followed Paul and Silas at Philippi. See Acts 8:9, 18; 13:8; 16:16-18.Acts 16:17
Reflecting Christ
True Religion Needed in the Church Today, July 23
RC 218.1
These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. Acts 16:17.Acts 16:17-34
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 66, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 66, 1905, par. 29
What we need at this meeting is to settle in to the living principles of present truth. Satan is creeping in with his sophistry to undermine the principles of our faith. You remember how when Paul and Silas were teaching in a certain place, a woman met them and cried, saying, “These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation.” [Acts 16:17.] This woman was possessed with a spirit of divination and by soothsaying brought her masters much gain. Her influence had helped to strengthen idolatry.20LtMs, Ms 66, 1905, par. 30
“But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out that same hour.” [Verse 18.]20LtMs, Ms 66, 1905, par. 37
“And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptized, he and all his straightway. And when he had brought them into the house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.” [Verses 26-34.] It looked as if their effort had been a failure, when they were in jail, with their feet in the stocks. But their effort resulted in the conversion of the jailer and all his household.Acts 16:25-26
Reflecting Christ
Though Suffering, Paul and Silas Sing, November 24
RC 342.1
At midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. Acts 16:25, 26.Acts 16:28
Education
Paul, Joyful in Service
Ed 66.4
See him in the dungeon at Philippi, where, despite his pain-racked body, his song of praise breaks the silence of midnight. After the earthquake has opened the prison doors, his voice is again heard, in words of cheer to the heathen jailer, “Do thyself no harm: for we are all here” (Acts 16:28)—every man in his place, restrained by the presence of one fellow prisoner. And the jailer, convicted of the reality of that faith which sustains Paul, inquires the way of salvation, and with his whole household unites with the persecuted band of Christ’s disciples.Acts 16:28-37
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 26, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 26, 1894, par. 23
Heaven’s army approaches, and to their tread earth begins to quake. The jailers knew that those that kept the prison when Peter escaped were put to death. As the doors open Paul did not say to the frightened jailer that it would be good enough for [him] to be put to death, but he [did] say, “Do thyself no harm.” [Acts 16:28.] Then the jailer comes in and acknowledges the power of God and asks forgiveness for his cruelty and says, What shall I do to be saved? He does give himself to God. [He] wash the backs of Paul and Silas and put them in as comfortable a position as possible.9LtMs, Ms 26, 1894, par. 24
There was a desire on the part of the officers that Paul and Silas should quietly leave the jail; but Paul says No, you have scourged us and though uncondemned, you have imprisoned us; now take us out yourselves. [Verse 37.] That God lives today [who] wrought for Paul and Silas. May God help us to establish the fear of God in our homes. God help us that we may make straight paths for our feet. May God help us to help one another and the Lord of Hosts will be with us and give us victory.Acts 16:30
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 35—Approaching Doom
PK 435.2
God’s plan is not to send messengers who will please and flatter sinners; He delivers no messages of peace to lull the unsanctified into carnal security. Instead, He lays heavy burdens upon the conscience of the wrongdoer and pierces his soul with sharp arrows of conviction. Ministering angels present to him the fearful judgments of God, to deepen the sense of need and to prompt the agonizing cry, “What must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:30. But the Hand that humbles to the dust, rebukes sin, and puts pride and ambition to shame, is the Hand that lifts up the penitent, stricken one. With deepest sympathy He who permits the chastisement to fall, inquires, “What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 40, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 40, 1892, par. 12
The Holy Spirit goes on convicting the sinner, piling up his condemnation, until the powers of the soul awaken and exclaim, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The divine Spirit, working with the human agent, has drawn the sinner, condemned by the law, to Jesus Christ. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. All heaven is waiting and ready to co-operate with the human agent to expel sin from the soul and supply the vacuum with the Holy Spirit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 33, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 33, 1895, par. 15
Now do not please Satan and glorify him by carrying a sad, mournful countenance. Now is the time, when the furnace fire kindles about your soul, to reveal your confidence, your trust in Jesus. I wish I could say something, dear afflicted one, that shall lead you to repose in Jesus Christ trustingly. The Bible places the responsibility of our happiness upon ourselves. We are to look to the light of life. Our usefulness depends on our own course of action. When any afflicted ones inquire earnestly, “What must I do to be saved?” the answer comes, “Come, suffering ones, come to Christ just as you are. Him that cometh I will in no wise cast out.” [See Acts 16:30; John 6:37.] Do not then refuse the drawing of His Spirit. He wants to make you happy even in this life. Resist not the Spirit of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 61b, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 17
God has given us individually capabilities and talents to use and improve by use, not merely to keep our minds upon common-place matters, but to elevate the mind to dwell upon eternal things. The mind will narrow or expand in just that degree that you shall treat it. If it is set upon the teaching of the Scriptures to understand and know God, the study [being] earnest and sincere, the mind will be strengthened by the research, particularly of truth that treats upon [the question], “What shall I do to be saved?” [See Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 73, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 73, 1896, par. 2
Because you have not changed, do not entertain the idea that you have no changes to make, that your practices were entirely as they should be. If your habits and opinions are stereotyped, then the Lord cannot lead you to advanced, purifying reforms. You, my brother and sister, have a serious question to ask daily, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The Lord Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] We are to follow on step by step to know the Lord, that we may know His goings forth are prepared as the morning. “Follow thou me.” [John 21:22.] “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 37
The arch adversary is cheating your soul out of peace and hope and faith and joy in Jesus Christ. If you lose heaven it will be because you have been determined to have your own way at all hazards. If you would look at yourself with one half the keenness that you look at the motives and mistakes of others, you would be filled with terror, and would cry out, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Cast your helpless soul on Christ, and become, as it were, a little child. When tempted to criticize, seal your lips. Utter not a word before you ask God to help you and strengthen you by His grace. O, it is such a terrible thing to use the tongue and voice wrongly. These talents are given us by God to be used only to His glory.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 80, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 80, 1896, par. 10
We thank God Adelaide has been especially visited with the light and the truth, and the question of vital importance has been asked by some precious souls, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Our work is to make the plan of salvation simple and forcible by pointing souls “to the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Lift Him up “who hath loved us and died for us.” [See Revelation 1:5.] Let it be breathed in every prayer and sung in every anthem.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 22, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 22, 1896, par. 16
The church which Christ has established needs to inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] God requires humble, contrite hearts, that tremble at His Word. Where is the preparation of the work of God to be obtained? Where? At the throne of grace. Man’s will and heart must be yielded to God’s will and way. Men are altogether too officious in trying to lift up and exalt themselves. All who do this will be found the last and least of all. It is only from the divine altar that we can receive the celestial torch, which, when received, will give us a full view of our incompetence, and reveal to us the dignity and glory of Christ. When this is seen, God places us under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and it will lead us into all truth. It will take of the things of Christ, the words that fell from His lips, and convey them into the heart that is obedient to the will of God, that it may receive the perfect image of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 78, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, par. 5
How can teachers urge that duties be practiced when they have shunned these duties all their lives? Let not one young person accept a class to teach who will only give their students lip talk. Children can discern the right ring in the voice, and the words and spirit of the teacher. It is the children’s due that the teacher have a real, individual, genuine, solid experience so that on Sabbath they can speak in a reverent, sacred, softened tone of the precious Saviour’s love and His great interest in all for whom He has given His sacred life. Make your sentences short and forcible for the scholars. Oh, that I could write words that all can feel and experience themselves because they long to understand “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 51a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 51a, 1897, par. 13
Belshazzar had been given many opportunities for knowing and doing the will of God. He had seen his grandfather Nebuchadnezzar banished from the society of men. He had seen the reason and intellect, in which the proud king gloried, taken away by the One who gave it. He had seen the king driven from the kingdom, and made the companion of the beasts of the field. But Belshazzar’s love of amusement and self-glorification had effaced the lessons he should never have forgotten. He committed sins similar to those that had brought such signal judgments on Nebuchadnezzar. He wasted the opportunities graciously granted him, neglecting to use the means within his reach for becoming acquainted with truth. “What must I do to be saved?” was a question that the great but foolish king passed by indifferently. [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 84, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 84, 1897, par. 14
“The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] But the Word must first enter the heart; then it will work outward. The question is often asked by really anxious souls, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The only answer is, Never make it necessary for some one to be constantly looking upon you in order to ensure faithful work. When you realize that the eye of God is constantly upon you, for your good, you will say in everything I will do my best, that the Lord may write concerning me, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] This is true in temporal matters. Into every action of life we are to weave faithfulness and loyalty, cultivating the attributes that will enable us to do this work. He who thus works from principle will find his reward, for those who can correctly estimate faithful service will say, Come up higher. I want you to take charge in a place of greater responsibility.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 13—Importance of Receiving the Holy Spirit
1SM 111.1
As these words were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away and mingled with the scoffers. Others, with tears, all broken in heart, made confession to those whom they had bruised and wounded. They did not think of maintaining their own dignity, but asked at every step, “What must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30). The answer was, “Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.” Words were spoken which rebuked spiritual pride. This God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. Seek the Lord, all ye who are ministers of His. Seek Him while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 55:7).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 153a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 153a, 1897, par. 19
Dear children, watch unto prayer. Then you will know that you do know that your life is hid with Christ in God. Those who live in these last days are to be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. There is no time now for levity, self-indulgence, and stupidity in the understanding of the work we have to do. Activity and devotion are united; work and piety blend. There is to be appropriate strength given for daily duties, which is derived from the worshiping of God in the beauty of holiness. The lamp must burn, which is impossible unless it is fed with holy oil. And the oil which is so precious is efficacious only as it is communicated by reflecting light upon the pathway of others. Busy activity is to be proportioned with devotional exercises in worship and diligent, cheerful ministry to the needy souls whose inquiry is, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 77, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 77, 1899, par. 23
It was not alone by dying on the cross that Christ accomplished His work of saving men. The ignominy and suffering and humiliation was a part of His mission. “He was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed.” [Isaiah 53:5.] This penalty Christ bore for the sins of the transgressor; He has borne the punishment for every man and for this reason He can ransom every soul, however fallen his condition, if he will accept the law of God as his standard of righteousness. He who sees the guilt of his transgression, and sees the infinite sacrifice made in his behalf will not continue in sin. He asks, “What must I do to be saved?” and is pointed to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. [Acts 16:30; John 1:29.] He accepts the truth as it is in Jesus and commences his life of loyalty to God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 187, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, par. 4
The physician, who has received wisdom from above, who knows that Christ is his personal Saviour, because he has himself been led to the Refuge, knows how to deal with the trembling, guilty, sin-sick souls who turn to him for help. He can respond to the inquiry, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] He can tell the story of the Redeemer’s love. He can speak savingly of the power of repentance and faith in Christ. As he stands by the bedside of the sick, striving to speak words that will be helpful to the sufferer, the Lord will work with him and through him. As the mind of the sufferer is fastened on the mighty Healer, he understands what it means to have the peace of Christ; and the melody of spiritual health and joy is used as the helping hand of God in restoring the health of the body.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 41, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 41, 1902, par. 33
In the first place, let all connected with the establishment of this sanitarium make a most through study of the object for which it is to be established. Is it to be in every sense a memorial for the Lord? Is it to be a means of awakening conviction in regard to the nature of sin? Is it to be a means of saving souls from death—souls who through conversion will show a reformation in the life-practice, thus answering the question, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 174, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 174, 1902, par. 31
You need to be converted. You need to ask in humility and contrition, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The whole powers of your being need to be called into earnest effort for the salvation of your soul. As you cast yourself on Christ, you are fulfilling His purpose for you. You are no longer a law to yourself. But no violence is done to your will and your freedom of action. The mind is brought under the authority of a new law. But it is the royal law of liberty. The whole being is surrendered to God. The heart is transformed by the Spirit’s power.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 71, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 71, 1903, par. 11
“The precious light that the Lord has given in reproof and warning is to be given to His people. Errors will be corrected by the messages given to the erring. The Spirit of the Lord will be in the message, and doubts existing in many minds will be swept away. The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the message given. Many will read with eagerness the messages reproving wrong, that they may learn what they must do to be saved. From all directions will come the cry, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ [Acts 16:30.] Light will dawn upon the understanding, and the Spirit of God will make an impression on minds as Bible truth is clearly and simply presented in the messages that since 1846 God has been sending His people. These messages are to find their place in hearts, and then transformation will take place.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 14, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 14, 1903, par. 13
In Josiah’s day the Word of the Lord was as binding and should have been as strictly enforced as at the time it was spoken. And today it is as binding as it was then. God is always true to His Word. What should we do—we who have had great light? The law has been kept constantly before us. Time and again we have heard it preached. The Lord’s anger is kindled against His people because of their disregard of His Word. Conviction of soul should send us in penitence to the foot of the cross, there to pray with the whole heart, saying, “What shall we do to be saved? Wherewithal shall we come before the Lord?” [See Acts 16:30; Micah 6:6.] My brethren, inquire quickly, before it is too late.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 73, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 73, 1903, par. 7
Those who have treated the light that the Lord has given as a common thing will not be benefitted by the instruction presented. There are those who will misinterpret the messages that God has given, in accordance with their spiritual blindness. Some will yield their faith and will deny the truth of the messages, pointing to them as falsehoods. Some will hold them up to ridicule, working against the light that God has been giving for years, and some who are weak in the faith will thus be led astray. But others will be greatly helped by the messages. Though not personally addressed, they will be corrected and will be led to shun the evils specified. Their errors will be reproved by the warnings given to the erring. The Spirit of the Lord will be in the instruction, and doubts existing in many minds will be swept away. The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the messages given, as Scripture is explained by Scripture. Many will read with eagerness the messages reproving wrong, that they may learn what they may do to be saved. From all directions will come the cry, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Light will dawn upon the understanding, and the Spirit will make an impression on minds, as Bible truth is clearly and simply presented in the messages that since 1846 God has been sending His people. These messages are to find their place in hearts, and transformation will take place.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 180, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 180, 1903, par. 29
To the anxious inquiry “What must I do to be saved?” the answer comes, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.” Thus answered the lawyer when, in reply to his inquiry, Christ said, “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” [Acts 16:30; Luke 10:25-27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 17, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 17, 1905, par. 2
Often ask yourselves the question, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Then search your Bibles, and pray earnestly for the impartation of the Holy Spirit, that you may understand the truth as it is in Jesus.20LtMs, Lt 17, 1905, par. 9
The Lord wants wise men and women, acting in the capacity of nurses, to comfort and help the sick and suffering. Through the ministrations of these nurses, those who have heretofore taken no interest in religious things will be led to ask, “What must I do to be saved?” [Verse 30.] The sick will be led to Christ by the patient attention of nurses who anticipate their wants and who bow in prayer and ask the great medical missionary to look with compassion upon the sufferer and to let the soothing influence of His grace be felt and His restoring power be exercised.From Splendor to Shadow
How God Tries to Save Us
SS 226.2
God’s plan is not to send messengers who will please and flatter sinners. Instead, He lays heavy burdens on the conscience of the wrongdoer to prompt the agonizing cry, “What must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:30. But the Hand that humbles to the dust is the Hand that lifts up the penitent one. He who permits the chastisement to fall inquires, “What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?” Mark 10:51.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 41, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 41, 1905, par. 6
A representation then passed before me. I was standing before a large number of people, bearing a message, clear, solemn, and of decidedly urgent importance. I was saying, Will not the considerations presented in the Word of God move upon your hearts, leading you to see and realize your peril. You are called by the name of Christ. But when the solemn conviction of the Spirit of God shall impress your souls, the works done will be of a very different character from what they now are. Testimonies will be borne that will cause unbelievers to tremble, and with painful earnestness to inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] Will not men have less confidence in the words and suggestions of men who are not worked by the Spirit of God? Will they not search the Scriptures with intense earnestness, that they may know what God saith in His Word. The days in which we are living are emphatically the last days of this earth’s history. Shall we not, in view of what is written in the inspired Word, decide to work for God and eternity? All around us there are unconverted men and women. Satan is working most zealously to deceive if possible the very elect. There needs to be brought into the life, into the words and deeds of those who are entrusted with responsibilities in the Lord’s work, a decided power from above. Many in the world are looking on to see what representation is being made by the people who claim to have advanced truth to proclaim. We are to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. We are to search the Word of God with diligence and earnestness. We are to proclaim the affirmative points of our faith, which have been so repeatedly confirmed by the manifestations of the Holy Spirit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 348, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, par. 8
If the minister’s lips are touched with a coal from off the altar, he will lift up Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. When the heart of the speaker is sanctified through the truth, his words will be living realities to himself and others. Those who hear him will know that he has been with God and has drawn near to Him in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon him, his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he will be able to compare spiritual things with spiritual. Power will be given him to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts will be broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many will inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 348a, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, par. 8
If the minister’s lips are touched with a live coal from off the altar, he will lift up Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. When the heart of the speaker is sanctified through the truth, his words will be living realities to himself and others. Those who hear him will know that he has been with God, and has drawn near to Him in effectual, fervent prayer. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon him, his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he will be able to compare spiritual things with spiritual. Power will be given him to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts will be broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many will inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 115, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 66
“As these words were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away and mingled with the scoffers. Others, with tears, all broken in heart, made confession to those whom they had bruised and wounded. They did not think of maintaining their own dignity, but asked at every step, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ [Acts 16:30.] The answer was, ‘Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.’ [See Acts 3:19; 1 Timothy 5:24.] Words were spoken which rebuked spiritual pride. This God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. Seek the Lord, all ye who are ministers of Him. Seek Him while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. ‘Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.’” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 1, 1875, par. 8
Men are demanded in these times who will not betray the truth, who will [not] yield to any guide but God. The trumpet must give a certain sound, clear and sharp. The sound of warning and alarm must be given. God has a message designed to arouse the people, and words of solemn importance must be spoken in no hesitating manner. The time of night must be sounded. The cry must be lifted, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” [Isaiah 21:12.] Clear and distinct the truth must come to the people in the Spirit and power of God that the church and the world may be aroused from their carnal slumbers. Men must be led to inquire with solemn interest, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] False, unfaithful shepherds are crying “Peace and safety” to soothe the consciences of those who need to be alarmed for their souls’ sake. The voice and pen of God’s faithful servants must be employed, that those who are at ease may be aroused with the warning, “For when they shall cry, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] None will escape, save those who watch and keep their garments white.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 67, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 67, 1886, par. 4
The Lord blessed me in speaking. The hall was well filled. Many were obliged to stand, yet they all listened with attention; and I do hope the words spoken may set some to thinking and inquiring, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] If I had not felt the power of the Lord sustaining, I should have felt discouraged. But for the thought that this would be the sowing of seed which would bring forth good fruit, I should not have had any hope that our labors were producing results. But I was sustained in bearing the straight testimony. I had the assurance that Christ was by my side, inspiring my heart to utter the very message He gave me, and I was encouraged by Christ’s presence. I felt a signal manifestation of His rich grace and the interesting coincidences evidenced that the Lord Jesus was in the assembly.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 70, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 70, 1886, par. 22
In a dream not long previous to this writing, a large congregation was before me, and I was talking with you who were assembled. I talked, wept, and prayed; but some seemed to be as unimpressible as the granite rocks. Then there was a mighty revealing of the Spirit of God. Jesus walked through the midst of us, touching one, and another, and still another, and how their faces lighted up! They praised God with joyful hearts. But some poor souls were passed by. Light was shining everywhere, but they shrank away into dark corners and did not try to come to the light, and Jesus looked upon them with pity. Others rushed from the darkness as though it were life or death with them, and the cry went forth as I never heard it before, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] It seemed as though the people were reined up for final judgment. There was confession of sins; there was rejoicing over sins forgiven. But all did not participate. Some had not been walking in company with Jesus, but apart from Him, and therefore did not realize His presence, but seemed to think it was not Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 12, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 55
We have to meet men in our day who are giving false interpretations of the Scriptures, who wrest the Word of God from its true meaning, and misapply its utterances, <as you have done and are continuing to do;> and we are in constant need of wisdom to know when to speak and when to keep silent. But there is always perfect safety in talking of the hope of eternal life. And when the heart is all melted and subdued by the love of Jesus, the inquiry will be, “Lord, what must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] It is not our words that have the greatest influence, it is the love of Jesus in the soul. This will melt the heart, and then it is in a condition for the seeds of truth to be planted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 10a, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 10a, 1892, par. 7
How much means are spent for things that are mere idols. Things that engross the thoughts and affections, little ornaments that require attention to be kept free from dust and placed in order. The moments spent in arranging these little idols might be spent in speaking a word in season to some soul, awakening an interest to inquire, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] These little things take the time that should be devoted to prayer, seeking the Lord, and grasping by faith the promises. How decided are these words, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praise of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [1 Peter 2:9.] There is a joyous tide of spiritual health that comes from these souls who have Jesus formed within.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 3, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 20
The heart must be stirred with [the] co-operative energy of the Holy Spirit; then standing in full view of the cross of Calvary by faith, the minister can communicate to others the divine inspiration of his theme. From a full treasure house he can bring forth things new and old which will stir the hearts of his hearers, and convicted, they will cry out, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] If the minister steps from the pulpit and separates himself from the people without making a special personal effort for those who have been touched by the love of Christ, he has lost an opportunity which he will never recover.Acts 16:30-31
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 97, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 97, 1895, par. 55
I pray most earnestly that the Lord Jesus will reveal Himself to you. Come to Him just as you are, give yourself to Him, grasp His promises by living faith, and He will be to you all that you desire. To one inquiring, “What must I do to be saved?” I answer, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” [Acts 16:30, 31.] Do not for one moment doubt that He will save you just as you are if you only come to Him. He said to the Jews, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Let not this be said of you and your wife.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 146, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 146, 1899, par. 8
When Christ’s ambassadors present the gospel in its simplicity, and the hearers respond to the Word presented, nothing is so gratifying to the heart of Infinite Love than for these souls to come to Him confessing their sins and giving expressing to their faith and <to the> truth; for He delights to impart to them His righteousness. When the question comes from the anxious soul, “What shall I do to be saved?” the answer returns, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, and thou shalt be saved.” [See Acts 16:30, 31.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 97, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 97, 1899, par. 29
Sin has divorced man from God. Christ alone can bring him back. He has bridged the gulf that sin made, and He declares, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [Verse 6.] Paul sought to lead all to understand that the gospel is the knowledge of a personal Saviour. The answer to the question, “What must I do to be saved?” is, Believe in Christ as your personal Saviour. [Acts 16:30, 31.]Acts 16:31
God’s Amazing Grace
Felt in the Home, August 6
AG 226.1
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Acts 16:31.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 1, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, par. 10
My brethren and sisters, I am instructed to say to you, That which is needed in this year of 1909 is true higher education—that which will make God’s will supreme in the lives of men and women. I ask you to seek to understand what the true higher education means to you individually. It means to follow the Word of God implicitly; it means to walk in Christ’s footsteps, to practice His virtues. Higher education means to give up selfishness and to devote the life to the service of God. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” [Acts 16:31.] There is peace only in the path of perfect obedience.Acts 16:37
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 98a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 27
The great apostle to the Gentiles was testified against falsely. At Philippi, unsustained by law and justice, he showed his enemies that they had treated him and his brethren shamefully. “They have beaten us openly and uncondemned, being Romans; and now do they thrust us out privily? Nay verily, but let them come themselves and fetch us.” [Acts 16:37.] And yet this same man writes, “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” [1 Timothy 1:15.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Acts 16:1-5
Conflict and Courage
While You Are Young, December 4
CC 344.1
Don’t let people look down on you because you are young; see that they look up to you because you are an example to them in your speech and behavior, in your love and faith and sincerity. 1 Timothy 4:12, Phillips.CC 344.2
He [Timothy] was a mere lad when chosen by God as a teacher; but so fixed were his principles by a correct education that he was fitted for this important position. He bore his responsibilities with Christlike meekness. He was faithful, steadfast, and true, and Paul selected him to be his companion in labor and travel. Lest Timothy should meet with slights because of his youthfulness, Paul wrote to him, “Let no man despise thy youth.” He could safely do this, because Timothy was not self-sufficient, but continually sought guidance.CC 344.3
There are many youth who move from impulse rather than from judgment. But Timothy inquired at every step, “Is this the way of the Lord?” He had no specially brilliant talents, but he consecrated all his abilities to the service of God, and this made his work valuable. The Lord found in him a mind that He could mold and fashion for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.CC 344.4
God will use the youth today as He used Timothy, if they will submit to His guidance. It is your privilege to be God’s missionaries. He calls upon you to work for your companions. Seek out those you know to be in danger, and in the love of Christ try to help them. How are they to know the Saviour unless they see His virtues in His followers? 7The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:915.CC 344.5
The highest aim of our youth should not be to strain after something novel. There was none of this in the mind and work of Timothy. They should bear in mind that, in the hands of the enemy of all good, knowledge alone may be a power to destroy them. It was a very intellectual being, one who occupied a high position among the angelic throng, that finally became a rebel; and many a mind of superior intellectual attainments is now being led captive by his power. The youth should place themselves under the teaching of the Holy Scriptures, and weave them into their daily thoughts and practical life. Then they will possess the attributes classed as highest in the heavenly courts.8The Youth’s Instructor, May 5, 1898.