EGW WritingsActs 2

Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 2

Acts 2:13

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 76, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 76, 1886, par. 6

I cannot sanction your course. I cannot see that while you were working to correct evils, as you might have done, that you should stop the work. If this is the way you manage when God sends good, be assured the revivals will be rare. When the Spirit of God comes, it will be called “fanaticism,” as on the day of Pentecost. “These men are filled with new wine,” was the saying of those who took no decided interest in the work. [Acts 2:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 27, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 27, 1894, par. 30

The baptism of the Holy Ghost as on the day of Pentecost will lead to a revival of true religion, and to the <visitation of angels and the> performance of many wonderful works. Heavenly intelligences will come among us, and men will speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Spirit of God. But should the Lord work upon men as He did on and after the day of Pentecost, many who now claim to believe the truth would know so very little of the operation of the Holy Spirit that they would cry, “Beware of fanaticism.” They would say of those who were filled with the Spirit, “These men are drunk with new wine.” [Acts 2:13.]

Acts 2:13-16

Ye Shall Receive Power

To Unexpected People, November 9

YRP 322.1

But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel. Acts 2:14-16.

YRP 322.2

The baptism of the Holy Ghost as on the day of Pentecost will lead to a revival of true religion and to the performance of many wonderful works. Heavenly intelligences will come among us, and men will speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Spirit of God. But should the Lord work upon men as He did on and after the day of Pentecost, many who now claim to believe the truth would know so very little of the operation of the Holy Spirit that they would cry, “Beware of fanaticism.” They would say of those who were filled with the Spirit, “These men are full of new wine” (Acts 2:13).

Acts 2:16-18

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

Ms 4, 1849

“This is that which was spoken of by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on my servants, and on my handmaidens, I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy.”2

Acts 2:16-18. Joel’s prophecy provided Adventists with a biblical basis for acceptance of the prophetic gift in the “last days,” and was seen to be partially fulfilled in Ellen White’s experience.

Acts 2:17

A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White

Preface

ExV 2.4

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams, &C.” Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28.

Christ Triumphant

The Power That Shook the World, October 22

CTr 302.1

I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. Acts 2:17.

Early Writings

Preface to First Edition of “Experience and Views”

EW vi.3

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: And your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” Acts 2:17 (CF. Joel 2:28.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 85, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 85, 1886, par. 27

One intelligent-looking gentleman, a Dane, arose and made remarks like this: he said he had not found much good in Copenhagen. He had not visited Copenhagen for nine years, but he praised the Lord that he was permitted to be in this meeting. He had never heard such wonderful things before. He thought the time had come that is spoken of by the prophet, “I will pour out of My spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” [Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17.]

Acts 2:17-18

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

Restored in the Last Days

CET 242.2

But the scriptures, while foretelling this dreadful apostasy, also plainly teach that just before the second coming of Christ, many will be rescued from the darkness of error and superstition. Once more the earth is to be lightened by the glory of God. The pure truths of the Bible are to shine forth. And in this time of heavenly illumination marking the approaching end of the age, the gifts of the Spirit are again to be manifest in the true church. “It shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy.” Acts 2:17, 18; Joel 2:28, 29.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3

Spiritual Gifts

3SG 19.2

Again, those who by unbelief quench the Spirit in these last days will be illy prepared to share in the great blessings which God promises by the prophet Joel, quoted by Peter, Acts 2:17, 18. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons andyour daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; and on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.” The “Former Rain” was given on the day of Pentecost, and enjoyed by the early Christians, to cause the Gospel seed to germinate and take root. The “Latter Rain” is coming to ripen the golden harvest for the garner of God. Take care, dear reader, lest unbelief in you quench the Spirit, and shut you away from this great blessing designed for “them that believe.”

Acts 2:17-21

Maranatha

Intolerance and Persecution, January 23

Mar 31.4

“Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God....” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC 611.2

The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC88 611.1

The work will be similar to that of the day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close, for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord; his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:3.] “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God; for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” [Joel 2:23.] “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Acts 2:17, 21.] The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are “the times of refreshing” to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [in the investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send Jesus.” [Acts 3:19, 20.]

The Three Angels’ Messages

Historical setting

3AM 134.2

Acts 2:17-39

Patriarchs and Prophets

Introduction

PP 20.1

To show how this promise was to be fulfilled to the church, the apostle Paul, in two of his epistles, presents formal declaration that certain gifts of the Spirit have been placed in the Church for its edification and instruction to the end of time. 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4:8-13; Matthew 28:20 Nor is this all: a number of clear and explicit prophecies declare that in the last days there will be a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and that the church at the time of Christ’s appearing will have had, during its closing experience, “the testimony of Jesus,” which is the spirit of prophecy. Acts 2:17-20, 39; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Revelation 12:17; Revelation 19:10. In these facts we see an evidence of God’s care and love for His people; for the presence of the Holy Spirit as a comforter, teacher, and guide, not only in its ordinary, but in its extraordinary, methods of operation, certainly is needed by the church as it enters the perils of the last days, more than in any other part of its experience.

PP 23.1

On the Day of Pentecost the disciples were thus endued with power from on high. But this promise of Christ’s was not, any more than the prophecy of Joel, confined to that occasion. For He gave them the same promise in another form by assuring them that He would be with them always, even to the end of the world. Matthew 28:20. Mark tells us in what sense and what manner the Lord was to be with them. He says, “And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” Mark 16:20. And Peter, on the Day of Pentecost, testified concerning the perpetuity of this operation of the Spirit which they had witnessed. When the convicted Jews said unto the apostles, “What shall we do?” Peter answered, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:37-39. This certainly provides for the operation of the Holy Spirit in the church, even in its special manifestations, to all coming time, as long as mercy shall invite men to accept the pardoning love of Christ.

Acts 2:19

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 8—After the Flood

PP 110.1

“I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke.” Acts 2:19. “And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.” “And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent.” Revelation 16:18, 20, 21.

Acts 2:22-23

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 9, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 25

The ignorance of the Jews was inexcusable, and involved a fearful responsibility. They had had sufficient evidence. God gives sufficient evidence to every soul. He does not promise to remove every doubt, but He gives a reason for faith. It was not the work of the Holy Spirit to make men believe. Hear the message of the apostle Peter on the day of Pentecost: “Ye men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you, by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain.” [Acts 2:22, 23.] “Ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; and killed the Prince of Life, whom God hath raised from the dead: whereof we are witnesses.” [Acts 3:14, 15.]

Acts 2:22-24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 161, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 161, 1899, par. 7

Peter speaking of this says, “Ye men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.” [Acts 2:22-24.] This history of the Jews is a warning to men who live in these times, for it is the future history of the religious world.

Acts 2:22-36

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 69, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 69, 1897, par. 51

After the day of Pentecost special miracles were wrought, but the Jews who had rejected Christ walked in darkness. When called up before them, Peter’s testimony was decided and unhesitating. He did not address the Jewish people in a timid, trembling style. “ye men of Israel,” he said, “hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and sings, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know, him, being delivered by the determinate counsel, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. ... This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens, but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thy foes thy footstool. Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made this same Jesus whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ.” [Acts 2:22, 23, 32-36.]

Acts 2:25

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 9, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 9, 1893, par. 14

You have, my dear brother in Christ, not cultivated spirituality and grown in grace. Self in you must die. Self-importance must be laid in the dust. O, remember that God is a present God, and that you have a fearful account to render at His bar unless your sins are washed away in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. You should be able to say, “I have seen the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” [Psalm 16:8; Acts 2:25.] You must be renewed, transformed, converted, and your whole life should be ordered and fashioned after the likeness of Christ. God has given you capabilities and talents to use wholly to His glory. God will not accept a divided half-and-half service.

Acts 2:25-26

Radiant Religion

In Communion with His Father, February 25

RRe 58.1

David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope. Acts 2:25, 26.

Acts 2:25-39

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 25a, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 25a, 1891, par. 27

Money-getting is the reward of a certain class of ability. But who gave these talents? It was God: and He gave them to be used for His glory. The same infinite One who gave Jesus Christ to our world, “Who for our sakes became poor that we, through his poverty, might be made rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] Then what is the position of the follower of Christ? “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me, so shall he be my disciple.” [See Luke 9:23.] Who are following Christ? Who are His true and loyal workers? Those who have the anointing of the Holy Spirit are alone safe to handle sacred things. We are embraced in the promise, “For the promise is unto you and to your children, and all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.] With David they may say, “I put the Lord always before my face: he is on my right hand, I shall not be moved.” [Psalm 16:8; Acts 2:25.]

Acts 2:25-47

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 12, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 7

“David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance.” [Acts 2:25-28.] Do not these words show us the blessings to be gained by exercising faith in Christ?

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 8

“Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad.” [Verse 26.] This is to be our experience. Why are we so depressed? Why are so many in constant fear lest they shall not be placed first, lest they shall not receive due recognition and praise? Why is there so much strife for the supremacy? Why are there so many evil surmisings? Does not this explain why some Christians have so little to say in regard to their hope and joy in the Lord? Can those who have such an experience say, “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved”? [Verse 25.]

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 10

“Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance.” [Acts 2:28.] To the humble, contrite soul the Lord makes known the ways of life and peace and joy. Christ is always before the face of those in whose hearts truth is enthroned. “Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad.” [Verse 26.] The tongue is so glad that it sings the praises of the Lord. It is never heard exalting self or disparaging others.

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 16

“Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance.” [Acts 2:28.] Those who offer acceptable service to God must understand their part of the work and must do it in patience and hope. They must work unselfishly, remembering the needs of their fellow workers, and doing all in their power to help them.

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 24

Read the words that were spoken by Peter on the day of Pentecost. Bearing witness of Christ, he concluded by saying: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.” [Acts 2:36.]

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 25

“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” [Verses 37-42.] Read the whole chapter. “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Verses 46, 47.]

Acts 2:28

Radiant Religion

We Shall Be Joyful to See His Countenance, December 17

RRe 353.1

Thou hast made known to Me the ways of life; Thou shalt make Me full of joy with Thy countenance. Acts 2:28.

Acts 2:29-34

The Faith I Live By

Man a Mere Mortal, June 17

FLB 174.7

Peter, on the day of Pentecost, declared that the patriarch David “is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.” “For David is not ascended into the heavens.” Acts 2:29, 34. The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection, proves that the righteous do not go to heaven at death. It is only through the resurrection, and by virtue of the fact that Christ has risen, that David can at last sit at the right hand of God.40The Great Controversy, 545, 546.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 33—The First Great Deception

GC 546.2

Peter on the Day of Pentecost declared that the patriarch David “is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day.” “For David is not ascended into the heavens.” Acts 2:29, 34. The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection proves that the righteous do not go to heaven at death. It is only through the resurrection, and by virtue of the fact that Christ has risen, that David can at last sit at the right hand of God.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 33—The First Great Deception

GC88 546.3

Peter, on the day of Pentecost, declared that the patriarch David “is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day.” “For David is not ascended into the heavens.” [Acts 2:29, 34.] The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection, proves that the righteous do not go to Heaven at death. It is only through the resurrection, and by virtue of the fact that Christ has risen, that David can at last sit at the right hand of God.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 28—The First Great Deception

4SP 366.1

Peter, speaking through the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, said: “Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day.” “For David is not ascended into the heavens.” [Acts 2:29, 34.] The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection proves that the righteous do not go to Heaven at death. It is only through the resurrection, and by virtue of the fact that Christ has risen, that David can at last sit at the right hand of God.

From Here to Forever

The First Resurrection

HF 336.1

Peter on the day of Pentecost declared that David “is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day.” “For David is not ascended into the heavens.” Acts 2:29, 34. The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection proves that the righteous do not go to heaven at death.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

The End of Suffering

GrH_c 18.5

Acts 2:30

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1

Chapter 37—Oath Taking

1T 202.3

I saw that if there is anyone on earth who can consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. He lives in the light of God’s countenance. He grows strong in His strength. And when matters of importance must be decided by law, there is no one who can so well appeal to God as the Christian. I was bidden by the angel to notice that God swears by Himself. Genesis 22:16; Hebrews 6:13, 17. He swore to Abraham (Genesis 26:3), to Isaac (Psalm 105:9; Jeremiah 11:5), and to David (Psalm 132:11; Acts 2:30). God required of the children of Israel an oath between man and man. Exodus 22:10, 11. Jesus submitted to the oath in the hour of His trial. The high priest said unto Him: “I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Christ, the Son of God.” Jesus said unto him: “Thou hast said.” If Jesus in His teachings to His disciples referred to the judicial oath, He would have reproved the high priest, and there enforced His teachings, for the good of His followers present. Satan has been pleased that some have viewed oath taking in a wrong light; for it has given him opportunity to oppress them and take from them their Lord’s money. The stewards of God must be more wise, lay their plans, and prepare themselves to withstand Satan’s devices; for he is to make greater efforts than ever before.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b

Surety, Oath-Taking, etc

4bSG 43.3

And I saw if there was any one on earth who could consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. He lives in the light of God’s countenance. He grows strong in his strength. And when matters of importance must be decided by law, there is no one who can so well appeal to God as the Christian. I was bid by the angel to notice that God sware by himself. Genesis 22:16; Hebrews 6:13, 17. He sware to Abraham, Genesis 26:3, to Isaac, Psalm 105:9; Jeremiah 11:5, and to David, Psalm 132:11; Acts 2:30. God required of the children of Israel an oath between man and man. Exodus 22:10, 11. Jesus submitted to the oath in the hour of his trial. The high priest said unto him, “I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus said unto him, Thou hast said.” If Jesus meant the judicial oath in his teachings to his disciples, he would have reproved the high priest, and there enforced his teachings for the good of his followers present.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Oath Taking

1TT 73.2

I saw that if there is anyone on earth who can consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. He lives in the light of God’s countenance. He grows strong in His strength. And when matters of importance must be decided by law, there is no one who can so well appeal to God as the Christian. I was bidden by the angel to notice that God swears by Himself. Genesis 22:16; Hebrews 6:13, 17. He swore to Abraham (Genesis 26:3), to Isaac (Psalm 105:9; Jeremiah 11:5), and to David Psalm 132:11; Acts 2:30. God required of the children of Israel an oath between man and man. Exodus 22:10, 11. Jesus submitted to the oath in the hour of His trial. The high priest said unto Him: “I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Christ, the Son of God.” Jesus said unto him: “Thou hast said.” Matthew 26:63, 64. If Jesus in His teachings to His disciples referred to the judicial oath, He would have reproved the high priest, and there enforced His teachings, for the good of His followers present. Satan has been pleased that some have viewed oath taking in a wrong light; for it has given him the opportunity to oppress them and take from them their Lord’s money. The stewards of God must be more wise, lay their plans, and prepare themselves to withstand Satan’s devices; for he is to make greater efforts than ever before.

Testimony for the Church — No. 5

Testimony for the Church

T05 24.1

And I saw if there was any one on earth who could consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. He lives in the light of God’s countenance. He grows strong in His strength. And when matters of importance must be decided by law, there is no one who can so well appeal to God as the Christian. I was bid by the angel to notice, that God swear by himself. Genesis 22:16; Hebrews 6:13, 17. He swore to Abraham, [Genesis 26:3,] to Isaac, [Psalm 105:9; Jeremiah 11:5,] and to David, [Psalm 132:11; Acts 2:30.] God required of the children of Israel an oath between man and man. Exodus 22:10, 11. Jesus submitted to the oath in the hour of his trial. The high priest said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus said unto him, Thou hast said. If Jesus meant the judicial oath in his teachings to his disciples, he would have reproved the high priest, and there enforced his teachings for the good of his followers present. Satan has been pleased to have some view oath-taking in a wrong light, for it has given him opportunities to oppress them, and take from them their Lord’s money.

Acts 2:32-47

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 45, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 7

When the human agent puts himself in living connection with God, the Holy Spirit will work in him “both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:13.] A vital connection is kept up between the church in heaven and the church on earth, and it is manifest that we are God’s husbandry, God’s building. It has been a mistake to have so many meetings in Battle Creek. One third of the time spent in ministerial institutes would have accomplished more toward the salvation of souls, because the ministers would have gone out from these meetings freighted with the precious light which had been shining from the Word of God. Time would have been given for the laborers to set the truth before thousands in destitute fields. Many who have never heard the truth as it is in Jesus would have been convicted and converted, and as a result many souls would have been added to the church, of “such as should be saved.” [Acts 2:47.]

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 28

The promise “Greater things than these shall ye do, because I go to my Father,” was fulfilled. [John 14:12.] Christ, the Messiah, had come. The Saviour of the world had died that all might have life, eternal life. It was no more a matter of faith with them that He was a teacher sent of God. They realized that although He was clothed with humanity, He was of divine origin. With what burning language they clothed their ideas as they addressed the multitude on the day of Pentecost. They declared that “This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we are all witnesses. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this (the baptism of the Holy Ghost) which ye now see and hear ... Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. [Acts 2:32, 33, 36.]

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 29

“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call ... And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Verses 37-39, 46, 47.]

Acts 2:36

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 16—The Gospel Message in Antioch

AA 165.2

Prominent among the apostles who engaged in this work were Peter, James, and John, who felt confident that God had appointed them to preach Christ among their countrymen at home. Faithfully and wisely they labored, testifying of the things they had seen and heard, and appealing to “a more sure word of prophecy” (2 Peter 1:19), in an effort to persuade “the house of Israel ... that God hath made that same Jesus, whom” the Jews “crucified, both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 16—Dramatic Success at Antioch

TT 88.1

Peter, James, and John felt confident that God had appointed them to preach Christ among their countrymen at home. Faithfully and wisely they testified of what they had seen and heard, appealing to the “more sure word of prophecy” (2 Peter 1:19) to persuade “the house of Israel ... that God hath made that same Jesus ... both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 318, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, par. 11

We need to have a broader view of the Saviour as “Lord and Christ.” [Acts 2:36.] “All power” is given to Him to give to those who claim to believe in His name. [Matthew 28:18.] We do not half acknowledge His right to our homage and obedience and to our increasing faith in Him.

Acts 2:37-38

Steps to Christ

Chapter 3—Repentance

SC 23.1

How shall a man be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous? It is only through Christ that we can be brought into harmony with God, with holiness; but how are we to come to Christ? Many are asking the same question as did the multitude on the Day of Pentecost, when, convicted of sin, they cried out, “What shall we do?” The first word of Peter’s answer was, “Repent.” Acts 2:37, 38. At another time, shortly after, he said, “Repent, ... and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” Acts 3:19.

To Be Like Jesus

Repentant Souls Hate Sin and Love Righteousness, December 9

BLJ 361.1

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:37, 38, NKJV.

BLJ 361.2

How shall a person be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous? It is only through Christ that we can be brought into harmony with God, with holiness; but how are we to come to Christ? Many are asking the same question as did the multitude on the day of Pentecost, when, convicted of sin, they cried out, “What shall we do?” The first word of Peter’s answer was “Repent” (Acts 2:37, 38). At another time, shortly after, he said, “Repent ..., and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19).

Homeward Bound

Repentance Is ...! March 19

HB 96.2

How shall anyone be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous? It is only through Christ that we can be brought into harmony with God, with holiness; but how are we to come to Christ? Many are asking the same question as did the multitude on the Day of Pentecost, when, convicted of sin, they cried out, “What shall we do?” The first word of Peter’s answer was, “Repent.” (Acts 2:37, 38.) At another time, shortly after, he said, “Repent, . . . and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” (Acts 3:19.)

Acts 2:38

The Faith I Live By

The Gift of God to You, February 16

FLB 53.1

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38.

Acts 2:38-39

The Great Controversy

Introduction

GC ix.2

After the wonderful manifestation of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, Peter exhorted the people to repentance and baptism in the name of Christ, for the remission of their sins; and he said: “Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:38, 39.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Author’s Preface

GC88 f.2

After the wonderful manifestation of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, Peter exhorted the people to repentance and baptism in the name of Christ, for the remission of their sins; and he said, “Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:38, 39.

From Here to Forever

Lifting the Veil on the Future

HF 11.2

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 48, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 48, 1890, par. 15

(Acts 2:38, 39): Peter speaking to the people under the inspiration of the Spirit of God said, “And ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” This promise embraces every son and daughter of Adam who will obey the drawing of the Spirit of God. The manifestation of the Holy Spirit we had in this meeting. When the heart is emptied of self, then there is no obstruction and the Spirit of the Lord will come into the heart. We may claim the promise individually. We are to open the door of the heart and receive the fulness of the Holy Spirit, clothed with salvation as with a garment, then the ministry of the Word will be with power.

Acts 2:39

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

MR No. 1002—The Baker Letter

13MR 14.1

In the night season I was conversing with you. I had a message for you, and was presenting that message. You were cast down and feeling discouraged. I said to you, The Lord has bidden me speak to Bro. and Sr. Baker. You are considering your work as almost a failure, but if one soul holds fast to truth, and endures unto the end, your work cannot be pronounced a failure. If one mother has been turned from her disloyalty to obedience, you may rejoice. The mother who follows on to know the Lord will teach her children to follow in her footsteps. The promise is to fathers, mothers and their children. (Acts 2:39) These dear children received from Adam an inheritance of disobedience, of guilt and death. The Lord has given to the world Jesus Christ, and His work was to restore to the world the moral image of God in man, and to reshape the character.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Mighty General of the Armies of Heaven, April 17

JNN 117.3

Humanity’s weakness shall find supernatural strength and help in every stern conflict to do the deeds of Omnipotence, and perseverance in faith and perfect trust in God will ensure success. While the vast confederacy of evil is arrayed against them He bids them to be brave and strong and fight valiantly, for they have a heaven to win, and they have more than an angel in their ranks, the mighty General of armies leads on the armies of heaven. As on the occasion of the taking of Jericho, not one of the armies of Israel could boast of exercising their finite strength to overthrow the walls of this city, but the Captain of the Lord’s Host planned that battle in the greatest simplicity, that the Lord God alone should receive the glory and human beings should not be exalted. God has promised us all power. “For the promise is unto you and your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:39).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 10—Missionary Work at Home and Abroad

8T 56.3

God’s field is the world. Jesus said to His disciples: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:47. Peter said to the believers: “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:39.

Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903

Chapter 7—Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church

PH151 33.1

God’s field is the world. Jesus said to His disciples: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:47. Peter said to the believers, “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:39.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 79, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 79, 1893, par. 13

This is the work, and we as individuals are required to do our part. And we have God’s pledged word that He will do His part in our necessities. “But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and in Samaria and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “For the promise is unto you and your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 1:8; 2:39.] We find that Palmerston and Wellington have been poorly worked.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 51, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 51, 1895, par. 10

Men’s weakness shall find supernatural strength and help in every stern conflict to do the deeds of Omnipotence, and perseverance in faith and perfect trust in God will ensure success. While the vast confederacy of evil is arrayed against them He bids them to be brave and strong and fight valiantly, for they have a heaven to win, and they have more than an angel in their ranks, the mighty General of armies leads on the armies of heaven. As on the occasion of the taking of Jericho, not one of the armies of Israel could boast of exercising their finite strength to overthrow the walls of this city, but the Captain of the Lord’s Host planned that battle in the greatest simplicity, that the Lord God alone should receive the glory and man should not be exalted. God has promised us all power. “For the promise is unto you and your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 5, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 5, 1895, par. 5

And Peter said to the believers, “The promise is unto you, and your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.] And the Lord said, “I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; And I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.” [Hosea 2:23.] “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the ends of the earth.” [Isaiah 49:6.] Something has been done in foreign countries, and something in home missions; but altogether too much territory has been left unworked. The work is too much centralized. The interests in Battle Creek are overgrown, and this means the robbing of other parts of facilities which they should have had.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 144, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 144, 1897, par. 9

Let those who are worried and troubled because efforts are not constantly put forth to enlarge the church of which they are members read Christ’s words. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] “For the promise is unto you and to your children,” Peter declared, “and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.]

Acts 2:39-40

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 3, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, par. 3

A great and solemn responsibility rests upon all parents to instruct their children so that they shall form characters which God will approve. The Lord Himself has prepared the way for parents, giving them special light by which they may understand the claims of His law. This light must be appreciated by parents as coming from the Lord for the saving of both themselves and their children. God has given us His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. But our faith in Him must be more than a casual faith; it must be definite, not founded on feeling, nor depending on sight, but established upon the Word of God. Although we cannot always see, we may always believe that Jesus Christ is our personal Saviour, that He saves us from sin and transgression, but not in sin. “For the promise,” Peter testifies, “is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” [Acts 2:39, 40.]

Acts 2:41

Radiant Religion

And Be Baptized, November 13

RRe 319.1

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 60, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 60, 1906, par. 17

The disciples obeyed the divine injunction. While they were engaged in prayer, being of one accord in one place, the Holy Spirit came upon them as a rushing, mighty wind and filled all the house where they were sitting. Peter was reanointed with the Holy Unction from on high. So wonderful was the outpouring of the Spirit that “the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.” [Acts 2:41.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 34, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 34, 1909, par. 11

God’s people are to be constantly reaching up to Him in prayer. It was after the early disciples had spent ten days in supplication, after all differences had been put away, and they had united in deep heart-searching, and in confession and putting away of sins, and in drawing together in holy fellowship, that the Holy Ghost came upon them, and the promise of Christ was fulfilled. There was a wonderful outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Suddenly there came from heaven the sound as of a rushing, mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. “And the same day there was added to them about three thousand souls.” [Acts 2:41.]

Acts 2:41-42

Ye Shall Receive Power

A Special Bestowal of Spiritual Grace, November 4

YRP 317.1

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. Acts 2:41, 42.

Acts 2:42-47

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 130, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 130, 1906, par. 31

What commission has Christ given just before His ascension? (Matthew 28:19, 20): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” What shall we teach the people? “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” (Acts 2:42, 43): “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.” Verses 44-47. This is the teaching that will come from men who are imbued with the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:43-45

Ye Shall Receive Power

Selfishness and Dishonesty Swept Away, November 25

YRP 338.1

And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. Acts 2:43-45.

Acts 2:44

Homeward Bound

God’s Spirit and Unity in the Church, August 23

HB 260.1

Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common.—Acts 2:44.

Acts 2:44-47

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 10, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 10, 1903, par. 11

When the Holy Ghost came upon the early disciples, and three thousand people were converted in one day, there was love and fellowship in the Christian church. “All that believed were together, and had all things in common; ... and they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Acts 2:44, 46, 47.] They lived in the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. But after a time, the evil leaven of criticism and fault-finding was introduced into the church, finally resulting in their leaving their first love.

Acts 2:46

Reflecting Christ

Christ Filled His Disciples’ Thoughts, January 28

RC 42.3

Under the training of Christ the disciples had been led to feel their need of the Spirit. Under the Spirit’s teaching, they received the final qualification, and went forth to their lifework. No longer were they ignorant and uncultured. No longer were they a collection of independent units or discordant, conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on worldly greatness. They were of “one accord,” “of one heart and of one soul” (Acts 2:46; 4:32). Christ filled their thoughts; the advancement of His kingdom was their aim. In mind and character they had become like their Master, and men “took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.”

Homeward Bound

Christ’s Coronation and Its Results, February 27

HB 74.5

Under the training of Christ the disciples had been led to feel their need of the Spirit. Under the Spirit’s teaching they received the final qualification, and went forth to their lifework. No longer were they ignorant and uncultured. No longer were they a collection of independent units or discordant, conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on worldly greatness. They were of “one accord,” “of one heart and of one soul.” (Acts 2:46; 4:32.) Christ filled their thoughts; the advancement of His kingdom was their aim. In mind and character they had become like their Master. . . .

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 174a, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 174a, 1902, par. 22

After the Holy Spirit fell on the disciples, they were of one mind and one heart. We read, “And they, continuing [missing page] [Acts 2:46.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Lord of Glory, October 26

JNN 315.5

Under the training of Christ the disciples had been led to feel their need of the Spirit. Under the Spirit’s teaching they received the final qualification, and went forth to their lifework. No longer were they ignorant and uncultured. No longer were they a collection of independent units or discordant, conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on worldly greatness. They were of “one accord,” “of one heart and of one soul” (Acts 2:46; 4:32). Christ filled their thoughts; the advancement of His kingdom was their aim. In mind and character they had become like their Master, and people “took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).—The Acts of the Apostles, 44, 45.

Acts 2:46-47

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.”—Matthew 7:12.

MB 137.1

Of the apostolic church, in those bright days when the glory of the risen Christ shone upon them, it is written that no man said “that aught of the things which he possessed was his own.” “Neither was there any among them that lacked.” “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.” “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 4:32, 34, 33; 2:46, 47.

Ye Shall Receive Power

More Consecrated Members, October 28

YRP 310.1

And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. Acts 2:46, 47.

The Time and The Work

Pentecostal Methods

PH120 5.2

After Christ’s early disciples had confessed their sins and righted every wrong,and they were about to begin to carry out the gospel commission, the Holy Ghost came upon them, and great power was with these lowly men and women. Providentially, God had brought together at Jerusalem “devout men out of every nation under heaven.” hearing them speak “the wonderful works of God” in their own language, they were amazed. Many of these were among the number who later said, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” they became believers, and carried the good news to their friends and relatives on their return home, of the apostles we read, “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” Acts 5:42. In this house-to-house labor they undoubtedly enlisted the new converts, “and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. Acts 2:46, 47. Thousands were converted, and, in a comparatively short time, the gospel message was carried to all the world.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Paul Urges Unity and Love

2TT 80.4

When the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the early church, the brethren loved one another. “They ... did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people: and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:46, 47. Those primitive Christians were few in numbers, without wealth or honor, yet they exerted a mighty influence. The light of the world shone out from them. They were a terror to evildoers wherever their character and their doctrines were known. For this cause they were hated by the wicked and persecuted even unto death.

Radiant Religion

New Converts Rejoiced to Eat Bread of Life, March 29

RRe 90.1

They, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. Acts 2:46, 47.

Acts 2:47

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 9—The Pearl

COL 120.1

Then the glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost bounds of the inhabited world. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Believers were reconverted. Sinners united with Christians in seeking the pearl of great price. The prophecy was fulfilled, The weak shall be “as David,” and the house of David “as the angel of the Lord.” Zechariah 12:8. Every Christian saw in his brother the divine similitude of benevolence and love. One interest prevailed. One object swallowed up all others. All hearts beat in harmony. The only ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of Christ’s character, and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom. “The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul.... With great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus; and great grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:32, 33. “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:47. The Spirit of Christ animated the whole congregation; for they had found the pearl of great price.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 21—A Warning Rejected

GC 379.1

The first angel’s message of Revelation 14, announcing the hour of God’s judgment and calling upon men to fear and worship Him, was designed to separate the professed people of God from the corrupting influences of the world and to arouse them to see their true condition of worldliness and backsliding. In this message, God has sent to the church a warning, which, had it been accepted, would have corrected the evils that were shutting them away from Him. Had they received the message from heaven, humbling their hearts before the Lord and seeking in sincerity a preparation to stand in His presence, the Spirit and power of God would have been manifested among them. The church would again have reached that blessed state of unity, faith, and love which existed in apostolic days, when the believers “were of one heart and of one soul,” and “spake the word of God with boldness,” when “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 4:32, 31; 2:47.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 21—A Warning Rejected

GC88 379.1

The first angel’s message of Revelation 14, announcing the hour of God’s Judgment, and calling upon men to fear and worship him, was designed to separate the professed people of God from the corrupting influences of the world, and to arouse them to see their true condition of worldliness and backsliding. In this message, God had sent to the church a warning, which, had it been accepted, would have corrected the evils that were shutting them away from him. Had they received the message from Heaven, humbling their hearts before the Lord, and seeking in sincerity a preparation to stand in his presence, the Spirit and power of God would have been manifested among them. The church would again have reached that blessed state of unity, faith, and love, which existed in apostolic days, when the believers were of “one heart and of one soul,” and “spake the word of God with boldness,” when “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Acts 4:32, 31; 2:47.]

From Here to Forever

The First Angel’s Message

HF 235.2

The first angel’s message of Revelation 14 was designed to separate the professed people of God from corrupting influences. In this message, God sent to the church a warning which, had it been accepted, would have corrected the evils that were shutting them away from Him. Had they received the message, humbling their hearts and seeking a preparation to stand in His presence, the Spirit of God would have been manifested. The church would again have reached that unity, faith, and love of apostolic days, when the believers “were of one heart and of one soul,” and when “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 4:32; 2:47.

Homeward Bound

What God Can Do With You, March 10

HB 87.1

And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.—Acts 2:47.

Homeward Bound

An Example of Church Unity, August 6

HB 243.1

The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.—Acts 2:47.