EGW WritingsActs 9

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 142, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 142, 1897, par. 11

“Yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord,” Saul went, not to the lower, ignorant class, but to the highest religionists in the world, the very men who acted a part in putting Christ to death, the men who possessed the spirit and sentiment of Caiaphas and his confederacy. These great men, thought Saul, if they had religious, determined helpers, could certainly put down this little handful of fanatical men. So to the high priest Saul went, “and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.” [Acts 9:1, 2.] Christ permitted this, and many, very many, lost their lives for their belief in Him.

Conflict and Courage

At the Damascus Gate, November 28

CC 338.1

And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? Acts 9:3, 4.

CC 338.2

With the faith and experience of the Galilean disciples who had companied with Jesus were united, in the work of the gospel, the fiery vigor and intellectual power of a rabbi of Jerusalem. A Roman citizen, born in a Gentile city; a Jew, not only by descent but by lifelong training, patriotic devotion, and religious faith; educated in Jerusalem by the most eminent of the rabbis, and instructed in all the laws and traditions of the fathers, Saul of Tarsus shared to the fullest extent the pride and the prejudices of his nation. While still a young man, he became an honored member of the Sanhedrin. He was looked upon as a man of promise, a zealous defender of the ancient faith.

CC 338.3

In the theological schools of Judea the word of God had been set aside for human speculations; it was robbed of its power by the interpretations and traditions of the rabbis.... With their fierce hatred of their Roman oppressors, they cherished the determination to recover by force of arms their national supremacy. The followers of Jesus, whose message of peace was so contrary to their schemes of ambition, they hated and put to death. In this persecution, Saul was one of the most bitter and relentless actors....

CC 338.4

At the gate of Damascus the vision of the Crucified One changed the whole current of his life. The persecutor became a disciple, the teacher a learner. The days of darkness spent in solitude at Damascus were as years in his experience. The Old Testament Scriptures stored in his memory were his study, and Christ his teacher.62Education, 64, 65.

CC 338.5

Paul did not think that he made any real sacrifice when he exchanged Phariseeism for the gospel of Jesus Christ.... When Paul found that he was in a wrong path, he linked himself, according to divine light, with a people he had thought he must wipe from the earth.... He taught Christ and lived Christ, and suffered martyrdom for Christ’s sake.63Manuscript 41, 1894.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 12—From Persecutor to Disciple

AA 112.1

Prominent among the Jewish leaders who became thoroughly aroused by the success attending the proclamation of the gospel, was Saul of Tarsus. A Roman citizen by birth, Saul was nevertheless a Jew by descent and had been educated in Jerusalem by the most eminent of the rabbis. “Of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin,” Saul was “a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Philippians 3:5, 6. He was regarded by the rabbis as a young man of great promise, and high hopes were cherished concerning him as an able and zealous defender of the ancient faith. His elevation to membership in the Sanhedrin council placed him in a position of power.

AA 112.2

Saul had taken a prominent part in the trial and conviction of Stephen, and the striking evidences of God’s presence with the martyr had led Saul to doubt the righteousness of the cause he had espoused against the followers of Jesus. His mind was deeply stirred. In his perplexity he appealed to those in whose wisdom and judgment he had full confidence. The arguments of the priests and rulers finally convinced him that Stephen was a blasphemer, that the Christ whom the martyred disciple had preached was an impostor, and that those ministering in holy office must be right.

AA 113.1

Not without severe trial did Saul come to this conclusion. But in the end his education and prejudices, his respect for his former teachers, and his pride of popularity braced him to rebel against the voice of conscience and the grace of God. And having fully decided that the priests and scribes were right, Saul became very bitter in his opposition to the doctrines taught by the disciples of Jesus. His activity in causing holy men and women to be dragged before tribunals, where some were condemned to imprisonment and some even to death, solely because of their faith in Jesus, brought sadness and gloom to the newly organized church, and caused many to seek safety in flight.

AA 113.2

Those who were driven from Jerusalem by this persecution “went everywhere preaching the word.” Acts 8:4. Among the cities to which they went was Damascus, where the new faith gained many converts.

AA 113.3

The priests and rulers had hoped that by vigilant effort and stern persecution the heresy might be suppressed. Now they felt that they must carry forward in other places the decided measures taken in Jerusalem against the new teaching. For the special work that they desired to have done at Damascus, Saul offered his services. “Breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord,” he “went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.” Thus “with authority and commission from the chief priests” (Acts 26:12), Saul of Tarsus, in the strength and vigor of manhood, and fired with mistaken zeal, set out on that memorable journey, the strange occurrences of which were to change the whole current of his life.

AA 114.1

On the last day of the journey, “at midday,” as the weary travelers neared Damascus, they came within full view of broad stretches of fertile lands, beautiful gardens, and fruitful orchards, watered by cool streams from the surrounding mountains. After the long journey over desolate wastes such scenes were refreshing indeed. While Saul, with his companions, gazed with admiration on the fruitful plain and the fair city below, “suddenly,” as he afterward declared, there shone “round about me and them which journeyed with me” “a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun” (Acts 26:13), too glorious for mortal eyes to bear. Blinded and bewildered, Saul fell prostrate to the ground.

AA 114.2

While the light continued to shine round about them, Saul heard, “a voice speaking ... in the Hebrew tongue” (Acts 26:14), “saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? And he said, Who art Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.”

AA 115.1

Filled with fear, and almost blinded by the intensity of the light, the companions of Saul heard a voice, but saw no man. But Saul understood the words that were spoken, and to him was clearly revealed the One who spoke—even the Son of God. In the glorious Being who stood before him he saw the Crucified One. Upon the soul of the stricken Jew the image of the Saviour’s countenance was imprinted forever. The words spoken struck home to his heart with appalling force. Into the darkened chambers of his mind there poured a flood of light, revealing the ignorance and error of his former life and his present need of the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit.

AA 115.2

Saul now saw that in persecuting the followers of Jesus he had in reality been doing the work of Satan. He saw that his convictions of right and of his own duty had been based largely on his implicit confidence in the priests and rulers. He had believed them when they told him that the story of the resurrection was an artful fabrication of the disciples. Now that Jesus Himself stood revealed, Saul was convinced of the truthfulness of the claims made by the disciples.

AA 115.3

In that hour of heavenly illumination Saul’s mind acted with remarkable rapidity. The prophetic records of Holy Writ were opened to his understanding. He saw that the rejection of Jesus by the Jews, His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, had been foretold by the prophets and proved Him to be the promised Messiah. Stephen’s sermon at the time of his martyrdom was brought forcibly to Saul’s mind, and he realized that the martyr had indeed beheld “the glory of God” when he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.” Acts 7:55, 56. The priests had pronounced these words blasphemy, but Saul now knew them to be truth.

AA 116.1

What a revelation was all this to the persecutor! Now Saul knew for a certainty that the promised Messiah had come to this earth as Jesus of Nazareth and that He had been rejected and crucified by those whom He came to save. He knew also that the Saviour had risen in triumph from the tomb and had ascended into the heavens. In that moment of divine revelation Saul remembered with terror that Stephen, who had borne witness of a crucified and risen Saviour, had been sacrificed by his consent, and that later, through his instrumentality, many other worthy followers of Jesus had met their death by cruel persecution.

AA 116.2

The Saviour had spoken to Saul through Stephen, whose clear reasoning could not be controverted. The learned Jew had seen the face of the martyr reflecting the light of Christ’s glory—appearing as if “it had been the face of an angel.” Acts 6:15. He had witnessed Stephen’s forbearance toward his enemies and his forgiveness of them. He had also witnessed the fortitude and cheerful resignation of many whom he had caused to be tormented and afflicted. He had seen some yield up even their lives with rejoicing for the sake of their faith.

AA 116.3

All these things had appealed loudly to Saul and at times had thrust upon his mind an almost overwhelming conviction that Jesus was the promised Messiah. At such times he had struggled for entire nights against this conviction, and always he had ended the matter by avowing his belief that Jesus was not the Messiah and that His followers were deluded fanatics.

AA 117.1

Now Christ had spoken to Saul with His own voice, saying, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?” And the question, “Who art Thou, Lord?” was answered by the same voice, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” Christ here identifies Himself with His people. In persecuting the followers of Jesus, Saul had struck directly against the Lord of heaven. In falsely accusing and testifying against them, he had falsely accused and testified against the Saviour of the world.

AA 117.2

No doubt entered the mind of Saul that the One who spoke to him was Jesus of Nazareth, the long-looked-for Messiah, the Consolation and Redeemer of Israel. “Trembling and astonished,” he inquired, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.”

AA 117.3

When the glory was withdrawn, and Saul arose from the ground, he found himself totally deprived of sight. The brightness of Christ’s glory had been too intense for his mortal eyes; and when it was removed, the blackness of night settled upon his vision. He believed that this blindness was a punishment from God for his cruel persecution of the followers of Jesus. In terrible darkness he groped about, and his companions, in fear and amazement, “led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.”

AA 117.4

On the morning of that eventful day, Saul had neared Damascus with feelings of self-satisfaction because of the confidence that had been placed in him by the chief priest. To him had been entrusted grave responsibilities. He was commissioned to further the interests of the Jewish religion by checking, if possible, the spread of the new faith in Damascus. He had determined that his mission should be crowned with success and had looked forward with eager anticipation to the experiences that he expected were before him.

AA 118.1

But how unlike his anticipations was his entrance into the city! Stricken with blindness, helpless, tortured by remorse, knowing not what further judgment might be in store for him, he sought out the home of the disciple Judas, where, in solitude, he had ample opportunity for reflection and prayer.

AA 118.2

For three days Saul was “without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.” These days of soul agony were to him as years. Again and again he recalled, with anguish of spirit, the part he had taken in the martyrdom of Stephen. With horror he thought of his guilt in allowing himself to be controlled by the malice and prejudice of the priests and rulers, even when the face of Stephen had been lighted up with the radiance of heaven. In sadness and brokenness of spirit he recounted the many times he had closed his eyes and ears against the most striking evidences and had relentlessly urged on the persecution of the believers in Jesus of Nazareth.

AA 118.3

These days of close self-examination and of heart humiliation were spent in lonely seclusion. The believers, having been given warning of the purpose of Saul in coming to Damascus, feared that he might be acting a part, in order the more readily to deceive them; and they held themselves aloof, refusing him their sympathy. He had no desire to appeal to the unconverted Jews, with whom he had planned to unite in persecuting the believers; for he knew that they would not even listen to his story. Thus he seemed to be shut away from all human sympathy. His only hope of help was in a merciful God, and to Him he appealed in brokenness of heart.

AA 119.1

During the long hours when Saul was shut in with God alone, he recalled many of the passages of Scripture referring to the first advent of Christ. Carefully he traced down the prophecies, with a memory sharpened by the conviction that had taken possession of his mind. As he reflected on the meaning of these prophecies he was astonished at his former blindness of understanding and at the blindness of the Jews in general, which had led to the rejection of Jesus as the promised Messiah. To his enlightened vision all now seemed plain. He knew that his former prejudice and unbelief had clouded his spiritual perception and had prevented him from discerning in Jesus of Nazareth the Messiah of prophecy.

AA 119.2

As Saul yielded himself fully to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, he saw the mistakes of his life and recognized the far-reaching claims of the law of God. He who had been a proud Pharisee, confident that he was justified by his good works, now bowed before God with the humility and simplicity of a little child, confessing his own unworthiness and pleading the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. Saul longed to come into full harmony and communion with the Father and the Son; and in the intensity of his desire for pardon and acceptance he offered up fervent supplications to the throne of grace.

AA 120.1

The prayers of the penitent Pharisee were not in vain. The inmost thoughts and emotions of his heart were transformed by divine grace; and his nobler faculties were brought into harmony with the eternal purposes of God. Christ and His righteousness became to Saul more than the whole world.

AA 120.2

The conversion of Saul is a striking evidence of the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit to convict men of sin. He had verily believed that Jesus of Nazareth had disregarded the law of God and had taught His disciples that it was of no effect. But after his conversion, Saul recognized Jesus as the one who had come into the world for the express purpose of vindicating His Father’s law. He was convinced that Jesus was the originator of the entire Jewish system of sacrifices. He saw that at the crucifixion type had met antitype, that Jesus had fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Redeemer of Israel.

AA 120.3

In the record of the conversion of Saul important principles are given us, which we should ever bear in mind. Saul was brought directly into the presence of Christ. He was one whom Christ intended for a most important work, one who was to be a “chosen vessel” unto Him; yet the Lord did not at once tell him of the work that had been assigned him. He arrested him in his course and convicted him of sin; but when Saul asked, “What wilt Thou have me to do?” the Saviour placed the inquiring Jew in connection with His church, there to obtain a knowledge of God’s will concerning him.

AA 121.1

The marvelous light that illumined the darkness of Saul was the work of the Lord; but there was also a work that was to be done for him by the disciples. Christ had performed the work of revelation and conviction; and now the penitent was in a condition to learn from those whom God had ordained to teach His truth.

AA 121.2

While Saul in solitude at the house of Judas continued in prayer and supplication, the Lord appeared in vision to “a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias,” telling him that Saul of Tarsus was praying and in need of help. “Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight,” the heavenly messenger said, “and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.”

AA 121.3

Ananias could scarcely credit the words of the angel; for the reports of Saul’s bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem had spread far and wide. He presumed to expostulate: “Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Thy name.” But the command was imperative: “Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.”

AA 121.4

Obedient to the direction of the angel, Ananias sought out the man who had but recently breathed out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Jesus; and putting his hands on the head of the penitent sufferer, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

AA 122.1

“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.”

AA 122.2

Thus Jesus gave sanction to the authority of His organized church and placed Saul in connection with His appointed agencies on earth. Christ had now a church as His representative on earth, and to it belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life.

AA 122.3

Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of His recognized followers on earth. Jesus is the friend of sinners, and His heart is touched with their woe. He has all power, both in heaven and on earth; but He respects the means that He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men; He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of light to the world.

AA 122.4

When, in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Saul was given a revelation of the Christ whom he was persecuting, he was placed in direct communication with the church, which is the light of the world. In this case Ananias represents Christ, and also represents Christ’s ministers upon the earth, who are appointed to act in His stead. In Christ’s stead Ananias touches the eyes of Saul, that they may receive sight. In Christ’s stead he places his hands upon him, and, as he prays in Christ’s name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All is done in the name and by the authority of Christ. Christ is the fountain; the church is the channel of communication.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 12—From Saul to Paul: Persecutor to Disciple

TT 60.1

Saul of Tarsus, a Roman citizen by birth, was a Jew by descent and had been educated by eminent rabbis. He was “a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Philippians 3:5, 6. High hopes were cherished concerning him as an able and zealous defender of the ancient faith. His elevation to the Sanhedrin council placed him in a position of power.

TT 60.2

Saul had taken part in the conviction of Stephen, and the striking evidence of God’s presence with the martyr had led him to doubt the cause he had espoused against the followers of Jesus. But the arguments of the priests finally convinced him that Stephen was a blasphemer, that Christ was an impostor, and that those in holy office must be right.

TT 60.3

Saul’s education and prejudice, his respect for his teachers, and his pride braced him to rebel against the voice of conscience. And having decided that the priests and scribes were right, he became bitter in his opposition to the disciples of Jesus. His activity in causing holy men and women to be condemned to imprisonment and even to death brought gloom to the newly organized church and caused many to seek safety in flight.

TT 60.4

Those who were driven from Jerusalem “went everywhere preaching the word.” Acts 8:4. In Damascus the new faith gained many converts.

TT 61.1

The priests and rulers had hoped that by stern persecution the heresy might be suppressed. Now they must carry forward in other places the decided measures taken in Jerusalem against the new teaching. For the special work at Damascus, Saul offered his services. “Breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord,” he “went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.” Thus “with authority and commission from the chief priests” (Acts 26:12), Saul of Tarsus, in the vigor of manhood and fired with mistaken zeal, set out on that memorable journey.

TT 61.2

As the weary travelers neared Damascus, “at midday” they came within view of fertile lands, beautiful gardens, and fruitful orchards, watered by cool streams from the mountains. While Saul gazed with admiration on the fair city below, “suddenly,” as he afterward declared, there shone “round about me and them which journeyed with me” “a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun.” Blinded, Saul fell prostrate to the ground. He heard “a voice speaking ... in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? ... I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” Acts 22:6; 26:13-15.

TT 61.3

Almost blinded by the light, the companions of Saul heard a voice, but saw no man. But Saul understood the words spoken, and in the glorious Being who stood before him he saw the Crucified One. On the soul of the stricken Jew the image of the Saviour’s countenance was imprinted forever. Into the darkened chambers of his mind there poured a flood of light, revealing the error of his former life and his need of the Holy Spirit.

TT 61.4

Saul now saw that he had been doing the work of Satan. He had believed the priests and rulers when they told him that the story of the resurrection was an artful fabrication of the disciples. Now that Jesus Himself stood revealed, he was convinced of the claims made by the disciples.

TT 62.1

In that hour the prophetic records were opened to Saul’s understanding. He saw that the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus had been foretold by the prophets and proved Him to be the Messiah. Stephen’s sermon was brought forcibly to his mind, and he realized that the martyr had indeed beheld “the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God.” Acts 7:55.

TT 62.2

In that moment of divine revelation Saul remembered with terror that Stephen had been sacrificed by his consent and that many other followers of Jesus had met death through his instrumentality. Stephen’s clear reasoning could not be controverted. The learned Jew had seen the face of the martyr as if it had been “the face of an angel.” Acts 6:15. He had witnessed Stephen’s forgiveness of his enemies. He also had witnessed the fortitude and cheerful resignation of many whom he had caused to be tormented. He had seen some yield up even their lives with rejoicing for their faith.

TT 62.3

All these things had at times thrust upon Saul’s mind an almost overwhelming conviction that Jesus was the promised Messiah. At such times he had struggled for entire nights against this conviction. Now Christ had spoken with His own voice, saying, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?” And the question, “Who art Thou, Lord?” was answered by the same voice, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” Christ here identifies Himself with His people. In persecuting the followers of Jesus, Saul had struck directly against the Lord of heaven.

TT 62.4

“Trembling and astonished,” he inquired, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” When Saul arose from the ground, he found himself totally deprived of sight. He believed that this blindness was a punishment from God. In terrible darkness he groped about, and his companions in fear “led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.”

TT 63.1

On the morning of that day, Saul had neared Damascus with feelings of self-satisfaction because of the confidence placed in him by the chief priest. He was to check the spread of the new faith in Damascus and had looked forward with anticipation to the experiences before him.

TT 63.2

But how unlike his anticipations was his entrance into the city! Blind, tortured by remorse, knowing not what judgment might be in store for him, he sought out the home of the disciple Judas, where, in solitude, he had ample opportunity for reflection and prayer.

TT 63.3

For three days Saul was “without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.” Again and again he recalled with anguish his guilt in allowing himself to be controlled by the malice of the priests and rulers, even when the face of Stephen had been lighted up with the radiance of heaven. He recounted the many times he had closed his eyes against evidence and had urged the persecution of believers in Jesus.

TT 63.4

These days of self-examination and humiliation were spent in lonely seclusion. The believers feared that he might be acting a part, in order to deceive them; and they refused him sympathy. He had no desire to appeal to the unconverted Jews, for he knew they would not even listen to his story. Thus his only hope of help was in a merciful God, and to Him he appealed in brokenness of heart. Shut in with God alone, Saul recalled many passages of Scripture referring to the first advent of Christ. As he reflected on the meaning of these prophecies, he was astonished at his former blindness and the blindness of the Jews in general. Prejudice and unbelief had prevented him from discerning in Jesus the Messiah of prophecy.

TT 64.1

As Saul yielded to the Holy Spirit, he saw the mistakes of his life and recognized the far-reaching claims of the law of God. He who had been a proud Pharisee, confident that he was justified by his good works, now bowed before God with humility, confessing his unworthiness and pleading the merits of a crucified Saviour. Saul longed to come into full harmony with the Father and the Son; and in intensity he offered fervent supplications to the throne of grace.

TT 64.2

His prayers were not in vain. The inmost thoughts of his heart were transformed, and his nobler faculties were brought into harmony with the purposes of God. Christ and His righteousness became to Saul more than the whole world.

TT 64.3

He had believed that Jesus had disregarded the law of God and taught His disciples that it was of no effect; but after conversion Saul recognized Jesus as the one who had come into the world for the purpose of vindicating His Father’s law. He was convinced that Jesus was the originator of the Jewish system of sacrifices and that at the crucifixion type had met antitype.

TT 64.4

Saul was one whom Christ intended for a most important work, yet the Lord did not at once tell him of the work that had been assigned him. When Saul asked, “What wilt Thou have me to do?” the Saviour placed him in connection with His church, to obtain God’s will for him. Christ had performed the work of revelation and conviction; now the penitent was to learn from those whom God had ordained to teach His truth.

TT 64.5

While Saul in solitude continued in prayer, the Lord appeared in vision to “a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias.” “Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.”

TT 65.1

Ananias could scarcely credit the words of the angel. “Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Thy name.” But the command was imperative: “Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.”

TT 65.2

Obedient, Ananias sought out the man who had breathed out threatenings against all who believed in Jesus; and putting his hands on the head of the penitent sufferer, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord ... hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.”

TT 65.3

“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.”

TT 65.4

Thus Jesus placed Saul in connection with His appointed agencies on earth. To the organized church belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life.

TT 65.5

Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone, independent of His recognized followers on earth. Jesus is the friend of sinners and has all power, but He respects the means He has ordained for the salvation of men. He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of light to the world.

TT 65.6

When Saul was given a revelation of Christ, he was placed in direct communication with the church. In this case Ananias represented Christ and also Christ’s ministers, who are appointed to act in His stead. In Christ’s stead Ananias touched the eyes of Saul. In Christ’s stead he placed his hands on him, and as he prayed in Christ’s name, Saul received the Holy Spirit. All was done in the name of and by the authority of Christ. Christ is the fountain; the church is the channel of communication.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 46, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 46, 1900, par. 20

“And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.” [Acts 9:1-20.] Read this whole interesting chapter.

The Story of Redemption

Chapter 37—The Conversion of Saul

SR 268.1

The mind of Saul was greatly stirred by the triumphant death of Stephen. He was shaken in his prejudice; but the opinions and arguments of the priests and rulers finally convinced him that Stephen was a blasphemer; that Jesus Christ whom he preached was an imposter, and that those ministering in holy offices must be right. Being a man of decided mind and strong purpose, he became very bitter in his opposition to Christianity, after having once entirely settled in his mind that the views of the priests and scribes were right. His zeal led him to voluntarily engage in persecuting the believers. He caused holy men to be dragged before the councils, and to be imprisoned or condemned to death without evidence of any offense, save their faith in Jesus. Of a similar character, though in a different direction, was the zeal of James and John when they would have called down fire from heaven to consume those who slighted and scorned their Master.

SR 268.2

Saul was about to journey to Damascus on his own business; but he was determined to accomplish a double purpose, by searching out, as he went, all the believers in Christ. For this purpose he obtained letters from the high priest to read in the synagogues, which authorized him to seize all those who were suspected of being believers in Jesus, and to send them by messengers to Jerusalem, there to be tried and punished. He set out on his way, full of the strength and vigor of manhood and the fire of a mistaken zeal.

SR 269.1

As the weary travelers neared Damascus, the eyes of Saul rested with pleasure upon the fertile land, the beautiful gardens, the fruitful orchards, and the cool streams that ran murmuring amid the fresh green shrubbery. It was very refreshing to look upon such a scene after a long, wearisome journey over a desolate waste. While Saul, with his companions, was gazing and admiring, suddenly a light above the brightness of the sun shone round about him, “and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? And he said, Who art Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.”

SR 269.2

The scene was one of the greatest confusion. The companions of Saul were stricken with terror, and almost blinded by the intensity of the light. They heard the voice, but saw no one, and to them all was unintelligible and mysterious. But Saul, lying prostrate upon the ground, understood the words that were spoken, and saw clearly before him the Son of God. One look upon that glorious Being imprinted His image forever upon the soul of the stricken Jew. The words struck home to his heart with appalling force. A flood of light poured in upon the darkened chambers of his mind, revealing his ignorance and error. He saw that, while imagining himself to be zealously serving God in persecuting the followers of Christ, he had in reality been doing the work of Satan.

SR 269.3

He saw his folly in resting his faith upon the assurances of the priests and rulers, whose sacred office had given them great influence over his mind and caused him to believe that the story of the resurrection was an artful fabrication of the disciples of Jesus. Now that Christ was revealed to Saul, the sermon of Stephen was brought forcibly to his mind. Those words which the priests had pronounced blasphemy, now appeared to him as truth and verity. In that time of wonderful illumination his mind acted with remarkable rapidity. He traced down through prophetic history and saw that the rejection of Jesus by the Jews, His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension had been foretold by the prophets, and proved Him to be the promised Messiah. He remembered the words of Stephen: “I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56), and he knew that the dying saint had looked upon the kingdom of glory.

SR 270.1

What a revelation was all this to the persecutor of the believers. Clear but terrible light had broken in upon his soul. Christ was revealed to him as having come to earth in fulfillment of His mission, being rejected, abused, condemned, and crucified by those whom He came to save, and as having risen from the dead and ascended into the heavens. In that terrible moment he remembered that the holy Stephen had been sacrificed by his consent, and that through his instrumentality many worthy saints had met their death by cruel persecution.

SR 270.2

“And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” No doubt entered the mind of Saul that this was the veritable Jesus of Nazareth who spoke to him, and that He was indeed the long-looked-for Messiah, the Consolation and Redeemer of Israel.

SR 271.1

When the effulgent glory was withdrawn, and Saul arose from the earth, he found himself totally deprived of sight. The brightness of Christ’s glory had been too intense for his mortal sight, and when it was removed, the blackness of night settled upon his vision. He believed that his blindness was the punishment of God for his cruel persecution of the followers of Jesus. He groped about in terrible darkness, and his companions, in fear and amazement, led him by the hand into Damascus.

SR 271.2

The answer to Saul’s question is, “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” Jesus sends the inquiring Jew to His church, to obtain from them a knowledge of his duty. Christ performed the work of revelation and conviction; and now the penitent was in a condition to learn of those whom God had ordained to teach His truth. Thus Jesus gave sanction to the authority of His organized church, and placed Saul in connection with His representatives on earth. The light of heavenly illumination deprived Saul of sight, but Jesus, the great Healer, did not at once restore it. All blessings flow from Christ, but He had now established a church as His representative on earth, and to it belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life. The very men whom Saul had purposed to destroy were to be his instructors in the religion he had despised and persecuted.

SR 271.3

The faith of Saul was severely tested during the three days of fasting and prayer at the house of Judas, in Damascus. He was totally blind, and in utter darkness of mind as to what was required of him. He had been directed to go to Damascus, where it would be told him what he was to do. In his uncertainty and distress he cried earnestly to God. “And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of one Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen a vision of a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.”

SR 272.1

Ananias could hardly credit the words of the angel messenger, for Saul’s bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem had spread far and near. He presumed to expostulate; said he, “Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints at Jerusalem. And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Thy name.” But the command to Ananias was imperative: “Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.”

SR 272.2

The disciple, obedient to the direction of the angel, sought out the man who had but recently breathed out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Jesus. He addressed him: “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.”

SR 272.3

Christ here gives an example of His manner of working for the salvation of men. He might have done all this work directly for Saul; but this was not in accordance with His plan. His blessings were to come through the agencies which He had ordained. Saul had something to do in the line of confession to those whose destruction he had meditated; and God had a responsible work for the men to do whom He had authorized to act in His stead.

SR 273.1

Saul becomes a learner of the disciples. In the light of the law he sees himself a sinner. He sees that Jesus, whom in his ignorance he had considered an impostor, is the author and foundation of the religion of God’s people from the days of Adam, and the finisher of the faith now so clear to his enlightened vision; the vindicator of the truth, and the fulfiller of the prophecies. He had regarded Jesus as making of none effect the law of God; but when his spiritual vision was touched by the finger of God, he learned that Christ was the originator of the entire Jewish system of sacrifices; that He came into the world for the express purpose of vindicating His Father’s law; and that in His death the typical law had met its antitype. By the light of the moral law, which he had believed himself to be zealously keeping, Saul saw himself a sinner of sinners.

SR 273.2

Paul was baptized by Ananias in the river of Damascus. He was then strengthened by food, and immediately began to preach Jesus to the believers in the city, the very ones whom he had set out from Jerusalem with the purpose of destroying. He also taught in the synagogues that Jesus who had been put to death was indeed the Son of God. His arguments from prophecy were so conclusive, and his efforts were so attended by the power of God, that the opposing Jews were confounded and unable to answer him. Paul’s rabbinical and Pharisaic education was now to be used to good account in preaching the gospel and in sustaining the cause he had once used every effort to destroy.

SR 274.1

The Jews were thoroughly surprised and confounded by the conversion of Paul. They were aware of his position at Jerusalem, and knew what was his principal errand to Damascus, and that he was armed with a commission from the high priest that authorized him to take the believers in Jesus and to send them as prisoners to Jerusalem; yet now they beheld him preaching the gospel of Jesus, strengthening those who were already its disciples and continually making new converts to the faith he had once so zealously opposed. Paul demonstrated to all who heard him that his change of faith was not from impulse nor fanaticism, but was brought about by overwhelming evidence.

SR 274.2

As he labored in the synagogues his faith grew stronger; his zeal in maintaining that Jesus was the Son of God increased in the face of the fierce opposition of the Jews. He could not remain long in Damascus, for after the Jews had recovered from their surprise at his wonderful conversion and subsequent labors, they turned resolutely from the overwhelming evidence thus brought to bear in favor of the doctrine of Christ. Their astonishment at the conversion of Paul was changed into an intense hatred of him like unto that which they had manifested against Jesus.

SR 274.3

Paul’s life was in peril, and he received a commission from God to leave Damascus for a time. He went into Arabia; and there, in comparative solitude, he had ample opportunity for communion with God and for contemplation. He wished to be alone with God, to search his own heart, to deepen his repentance, and to prepare himself by prayer and study to engage in a work which appeared to him too great and too important for him to undertake. He was an apostle, not chosen of men, but chosen of God, and his work was plainly stated to be among the Gentiles.

SR 275.1

While in Arabia he did not communicate with the apostles; he sought God earnestly with all his heart, determining not to rest till he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted and his great sin pardoned. He would not give up the conflict until he had the assurance that Jesus would be with him in his coming ministry. He was ever to carry about with him in the body the marks of Christ’s glory, in his eyes, which had been blinded by the heavenly light, and he desired also to bear with him constantly the assurance of Christ’s sustaining grace. Paul came into close connection with Heaven, and Jesus communed with him, and established him in his faith, bestowing upon him His wisdom and grace.

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)

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.

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 24 (1909)

Lt 189, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 189, 1909, par. 21

Wake up, brethren, wake up! Let the converting power of God come to your souls else Satan will use you as he did Saul to hunt up souls to be persecuted. Acts 9. This whole chapter is a lesson to us all. There are some who are not converted who will work to do all in their power, as did the satanic agencies in Christ’s day; they crucified the Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. Read the account of Lucifer in Ezekiel 28. Bear in mind that history is to be repeated. A great education in experience does not help if it does not perfect the knowledge of the glory of God to exalt the Lord Jehovah and His only begotten Son Jesus Christ. Lucifer’s act to exalt himself will be a power he can exercise upon just such men as we shall have to deal with in our present and future experience. Read and understand Acts 9.

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 23 (1908)

Ms 17, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 17, 1908, par. 19

We have another record of the Lord’s work through the agency of angels, in the account of Saul’s conversion, recorded in the ninth chapter of Acts. Here again we are led to see the wonderful connection there is between the heavenly agencies and the earthly. Saul, he who had stood by, consenting, at the stoning of Stephen, was not content to leave the people of God undisturbed. “Breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, Saul went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

23LtMs, Ms 17, 1908, par. 28

“And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.” [Verses 1-22.]

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 14 (1899)

Ms 46, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 46, 1899, par. 4

As Saul of Tarsus was on his way to Damascus, breathing out threatening and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, he was arrested in his course. “Suddenly there shone round about him a light from heaven, and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying, unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” [Acts 9:3, 4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 95, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 95, 1899, par. 4

As he was on his way to Damascus to arrest any Christians he could find, “suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest; it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth, and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.” [Acts 9:3-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 8, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 8, 1900, par. 3

“And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man; but they led him by the hand, and they brought him unto Damascus.” [Acts 9:3-8.] This chapter reveals that all heaven is interested in the believing church of God, and that God will open ways before those who will put their trust in Him.

Christ Triumphant

Saul Becomes Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles, October 29

CTr 309.1

And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. Acts 9:4, 5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 99, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 99, 1894, par. 16

Saul was as sincere as a man could possibly be in his false religious ideas. He imprisoned the believers, caused them to be scourged, to be put in the stocks, and to be killed. He consented to the death of Stephen, and took charge of the clothes of those who were stoning him. But the Lord Jesus revealed Himself to Saul and asked him, “Why persecutest thou me?” From his pale and terrified lips came the words, “Who art thou, Lord, and the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” [Acts 9:4, 5.] Saul had been very conscientious in his attitude toward the Christian church, but it was an erroneous conscientiousness that led him to take his stand on Satan’s side instead of on the Lord’s side.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 37, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 37, 1898, par. 15

After His ascension, Christ revealed Himself to Paul. As Paul beheld the glory of His countenance, it was more than he could endure. He was stricken to the earth, and he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” [Acts 9:4, 5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 135, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 135, 1898, par. 11

Paul had a terrible awakening when the light from heaven flashed upon him, and a voice spoke to him and asked, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” The answer came from Saul, “Who art thou, Lord?” And Christ’s answer was, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” Self is left out of the question. “And the Lord said unto him, ‘Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.’” [Acts 9:4-6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 229, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 16

Paul could not stand it. He was an opposer, and as he went to oppose the saints, there was a voice heard, and he was stricken from his horse. Why, he asked, “Who art thou, Lord?” “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.” [Acts 9:5.] And then Christ talked with him. Now, I want to tell you that all he could see was the light and the glory, but not the person, of Christ.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Clay in the Hands of the Potter, February 5

YRP 44.5

Oh, that those whom the Lord has blessed with the treasures of truth would awake and say from the heart, “Lord what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6). Light is increasing to enlighten every soul who will diffuse the light to others.—The General Conference Daily Bulletin, February 4, 1893.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Heart Changed, February 9

YRP 48.4

“The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light” (Luke 11:34). If the eye is single, if it is directed heavenward, the light of heaven will fill the soul, and earthly things will appear insignificant and uninviting. The purpose of the heart will be changed, and the admonition of Jesus will be heeded. You will lay up your treasure in heaven. Your thoughts will be fixed upon the great rewards of eternity. All your plans will be made in reference to the future, immortal life. You will be drawn toward your treasure. You will not study your worldly interest; but in all your pursuits the silent inquiry will be “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6).—The Review and Herald, January 24, 1888.

Ye Shall Receive Power

With a Teachable Disposition, April 11

YRP 110.4

He who has an obedient heart, that is ready to do the will of God, will not only gladly receive truth, but will earnestly seek for truth as for hidden treasure. He will come to the Scriptures with a humble and teachable spirit, seeking to understand how he may walk in the light, and saying, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6). He is ready to sacrifice anything and everything, if required, in order that he may be in harmony with the will of God.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Neighborhood: A Large Field of Work, June 16

YRP 176.4

We have long been looking and waiting for the coming of the Lord; but are we doing all in our power to hasten His coming? “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). While the Lord is ever working, while all heaven is engaged in the work on earth to draw men to Christ and repentance, what are the human agents doing to be channels of light, that they may cooperate with the divine agencies? Are they daily inquiring, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6). Are they practicing self-denial, as did Jesus? Are they deeply stirred, their hearts drawn out in prayer to God that they may be receiving of His grace, the Holy Spirit of God, that they may have wisdom to work with their ability and their means to save souls that are perishing out of Christ?—The Review and Herald, May 16, 1893.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Sanitariums as Missionary Agencies

3TT 367.4

Let the Lord’s work go forward. Let the medical missionary and the educational work go forward. I am sure that this is our great lack,—earnest, devoted, intelligent, capable workers. In every large city there should be a representation of true medical missionary work. Let many now ask: “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. It is the Lord’s purpose that His method of healing without drugs shall be brought into prominence in every large city through our medical institutions. God invests with holy dignity those who go forth farther and still farther, in every place to which it is possible to obtain entrance. Satan will make the work as difficult as possible, but divine power will attend all truehearted workers. Guided by our heavenly Father’s hand, let us go forward, improving every opportunity to extend the work of God.

From Here to Forever

Results of Neglect of Prayer and Bible Study

HF 365.4

The destiny of earth’s teeming multitudes is about to be decided. Every follower of Christ should earnestly inquire: “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. We should now seek a deep and living experience in the things of God. We have not a moment to lose. We are on Satan’s enchanted ground. Sleep not, sentinels of God!

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Results of Neglect of Prayer and Bible Study

GrH_c 33.2

The destiny of earth’s teeming multitudes is about to be decided. Every follower of Christ should earnestly inquire: “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. We should now seek a deep and living experience in the things of God. We have not a moment to lose. We are on Satan’s enchanted ground. Sleep not, sentinels of God!

Homeward Bound

A Channel of Light, August 4

HB 241.1

Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.—Acts 9:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 9, 1873

2LtMs, Lt 9, 1873, par. 15

Let the language of our hearts be, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] It matters not what our position may be or how limited our capacities, we have a work to do for the Master. Our graces are developed and matured by exercise. With the truth of God burning in the soul we cannot be idle. The happiness we shall experience in doing will compensate even in this life for every effort. Those only who have experienced happiness resulting from self-denying effort in the service of Christ can speak of the matter understandingly. It is indeed joy so pure, so deep that language cannot express it.

Counsels on Health

The Work in Large Cities

CH 393.4

Let the Lord’s work go forward. Let the medical missionary and the educational work go forward. I am sure that this is our great lack—earnest, devoted, intelligent, capable workers. In every large city there should be a representation of true medical missionary work. Let many now ask, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. It is the Lord’s purpose that His method of healing without drugs shall be brought into prominence in every large city through our medical institutions. God invests with holy dignity those who go forth farther and still farther, in every place to which it is possible to obtain entrance. Satan will make the work as difficult as possible, but divine power will attend all truehearted workers. Guided by our heavenly Father’s hand, let us go forward, improving every opportunity to extend the work of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 24a, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 24a, 1882, par. 15

“Quit you like men, be strong.” [1 Corinthians 16:13.] Take your eyes and thoughts away from yourself, and let the whole heart be surrendered to God. Ask of Jesus, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Lay yourself, all you have and are, at the cross of Calvary. You can achieve nothing of yourself worth your living in this world, for “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Divine resources are at the command of everyone who shall seek God in a spirit of helpless nothingness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 36, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 36, 1885, par. 28

Christ says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] And then He says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Verse 29.] What are the conditions?—We have to bear the cross. Every morning we are to inquire, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Wherever we are, our prayers should each day ascend to God for light. We are to go to Him for our orders. Thus we learn daily precious lessons in the school of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 44, 1887

5LtMs, Lt 44, 1887, par. 15

We have had altogether too much talk of coming down to the common mind, and there is a careless, irreverent, slip-shod class of men attempting to preach who would better be toiling in the soil than preaching the sacred truth of God. God wants men of mind and of talent who can weight arguments, men who will dig for the truth as for hid treasures. These men will be able to reach not only the common, but the higher classes. Such men will ever be students of the Bible. They will keep their soul alive to the sacredness of the responsibilities of the work. These will make full proof of their ministry. God knows every man according to the fidelity and spirit of consecration with which he fulfills his mission, but there is no place for the slothful in this great work—no place for the self-indulgent and those who are incapable of making life a success in any calling—no place for half-hearted men who are not fervent in spirit to endure hardness, or opposition or reproach, or death for Christ’s sake. The Christian ministry is no place for drones. “Be ye strong, quit ye like men.” [1 Corinthians 16:13.] Ask of Him who suffered reproach, insult, and mockery for your sake, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 16, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 16, 1890, par. 101

All should fear to accept and hold responsibilities without hourly and daily consecration to God, and an entire surrender of their wills to Him. Fear to encounter temptations unless your soul is under the transforming grace of Christ, and you are determined to enquire at every step, Is this the way of the Lord? Ask, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Deal honestly with your own souls and with your Lord. Do not make a move without God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 1a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 1a, 1890, par. 24

I speak to the church in Fresno, For Christ’s sake move intelligently. Do not blunder here when the interest of a church is at stake. I pity Elder Daniels, for the church at Fresno have hurt him by placing him where God should be. His ambition has been fed; indolence, self-indulgence, and a low condition of piety have brought upon him spiritual feebleness and blindness, and he has become unfitted to be a minister of the gospel of Christ. If you place him in that position, you dishonor the cause of God, for he has surely fallen into the snare of the devil. There is only one way of escape; he must be converted; he must do just as he has told others to do—repent, confess, make restitution—or he will never see the kingdom of heaven. He must return to his first love and come out from the darkness of unbelief and skepticism. When he shall have clear convictions once more, when the Holy Spirit shall have dominion over his soul, when love, faith, and childlike simplicity shall be the rule of his life, then he may believe that Christ is dwelling in him, and the people everywhere may believe it too, for they see that he has learned the lessons in the school of Christ. Is this more than God requires? No, no! Christ demands, in return for the blood He has shed, the heaven He has prepared, nothing less than entire consecration. “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” should be the burden of every prayer. [Acts 9:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 16d, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 16d, 1892, par. 19

Oh! that those whom the Lord has blessed with the treasures of truth would awake and say from the heart, “Lord what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Light is increasing to brighten every soul who will diffuse the light to others. God will have His witnesses, [even] if one refuses, if one hardens his heart, if he falls from his first love, if he does not quickly repent, his candlestick will be removed out of his place, and the light which he has enjoyed go out, [and] the heart grow hard and selfish in contact with the world. Indulgence of self, selfish pride, the following of inclination is not at all in harmony with the life and character of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 6, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 6, 1892, par. 15

The Lord will work in this country. And if the living agents who claim to believe the truth refuse to become missionaries [to] practice the gentleness of Christ and cooperate with the leading forces with Christ at their head, they will be dropped out of the work. “God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.” [Matthew 3:9.] But what a loss will the perverted, indolent, professed Christian sustain; what a precious experience they might have obtained had they yoked up with Christ, had they lifted His burdens. O that those whom the Lord has blessed with the treasures of truth would wake from sleep and say from the heart, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.]

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

MR No. 1363—Condescension of Jesus; Unity in Christ; Appeal for an Efficient, Well-Trained Ministry

19MR 28.1

Dear brethren, we need now to carefully consider every plan. We need now to humble our hearts before God. We need now not to wait in a careless attitude, but in an attentive, reverent attitude. “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6]. “Speak, Lord; for Thy servant heareth” [1 Samuel 3:9]. We are living in the most critical period of this earth’s history. We are fully conscious of the great need of workers; but, my brethren, greatly as we need efficient helpers, we must not be careless and allow the work to be cumbered with driftwood. We must draw nigh to God every day, every hour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 99, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 99, 1893, par. 32

We have long been looking and waiting for the coming the Lord; but are we doing all in our power to hasten His coming? “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” [2 Peter 3:9.] While the Lord is ever working, while all heaven is engaged in the work on earth to draw men to Christ and repentance, what are the human agents doing to be channels of light, that they may co-operate with the divine agencies? Are they daily inquiring, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Are they practicing self-denial as did Jesus? Are they deeply stirred, their hearts drawn out in prayer to God that they may be receiving of His grace, the Holy Spirit of God, that they may have wisdom to work with their ability and their means to save souls that are perishing out of Christ?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 10, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 10, 1897, par. 26

Dear brethren, we need now to carefully consider every plan. We need now to humble our hearts before God. We need now not to wait in a careless attitude, but in an attentive, reverent attitude. “Lord, what wouldst thou have me to do?” “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.” [Acts 9:6; 1 Samuel 3:9.] We are living in the most critical period of this earth’s history. We are fully conscious of the great need of workers, but, my brethren, greatly as we need efficient helpers, we must not be careless, and allow the work to be cumbered with driftwood. We must draw nigh to God every day, every hour. In whatever we are called to do, we are to keep the spirit clean and fragrant.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 60, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 60, 1897, par. 2

Brother and Sister Hickox, I have much that I would be pleased to say to you, but you are far away, and I am scarcely able to use the pen. You have surrendered your will to God; continue the surrender, for you will find that self will battle for the supremacy. And if God calls you, as Elijah did Elisha, to leave the yoke of oxen while plowing in the field, be ready to understand the message. Now that you have turned your face unto the Lord, you can in earnestness say, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Labor now to be approved unto God. Keep the eye single to His glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 154, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 154, 1897, par. 9

I shall now leave this matter, trusting that you will be reconciled to the Lord’s will, and to the necessities of the case. I shall be glad, very glad, when the time comes, to accompany Maggie to New Zealand, and visit you in your home with your daughter. I have a great desire to visit Kaeo again, and see our people in the faith, and bear my testimony to them. The Lord is soon coming, and we have no time to lose in getting before the people the last message of mercy to be given to our world. The work will increase more and more in depth and in breadth. There will be an intense interest to the very close of time. Is it not the will of God that we wish to study? It is not my will, but, “What will the Lord have me to do”? [See Acts 9:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 139, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 93

Looking up to heaven in supplication, present yourself to God as His servant, and all that you have as His, saying, “Lord, of thine own we freely give thee.” [See 1 Chronicles 29:14.] Standing in view of the cross of Calvary, and the Son of the infinite God crucified for you, realizing that matchless love, that wonderful display of grace, let your earnest inquiry be, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] He has told you, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 136a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 136a, 1898, par. 8

True faith asks of the Lord, “What wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6] and when the way is marked out by the Master whose we are by creation and redemption, it is prepared to do the will of our Owner, at whatever hardship or sacrifice. We must in faith ask the Lord to point out our path of duty, and then promptly follow, whatever may be the consequence. The present and eternal good of the youth whom we have under our charge must often bring us upon our knees, seeking for counsel of Him who is too wise to err, and too good to leave us helpless in our own wisdom. Study the simplicity of the Scriptures so that you will not fail to make the word understood, by giving line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 9, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 9, 1899, par. 34

There are always two parties in our world. One is ready to hear the call of God, and obey, saying, “What wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] The great anxiety of the other is to discover what is the most pleasant to do. Inclination must be severely tested, for inclination is no evidence of duty. Take everything to God in prayer. Let those who have an experience in the things of God make no hasty decisions in selecting men to fill important positions. Let no man strive to be placed in position, but let everyone be careful in regard to accepting a position of trust. Let them subject themselves to close self-examination. Let them counsel with the experienced followers of God, and seek by earnest prayer to know their duty. Let all be willing to be led and guided by God. Do not think that because you have made mistakes, you are excluded from the work of God. There are many with great opportunities who make great failures.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 238, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 238, 1899, par. 6

If Emma and you come to us, we will try to do all in our power to make you happy. My dear children, I have no urging to do. If you ask the Lord in regard to the matter, then do as you know is your duty. We must take life’s controversies and troubles to His feet, for Christ loves us. His every word and look invite our confidence. We want Jesus and want Him to come into our home and abide with us. He will shape and mold our characters according to His own will, and every day we will be found asking, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] We must not have undue anxiety, but learn the lessons of faith and trust. Let us commit the spiritual health of the soul to Him who hath loved us and given His own precious life that He might make it possible for us to learn of Him who is meek and lowly of heart.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 122, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 122, 1899, par. 64

Let the canvasser go forth with this prayer upon his lips, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Let him labor as in the light of God and in the presence of heavenly angels; let him desire to be approved of God in all things, having an eye single to His glory, and he will not be fruitless in the work which he has undertaken.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 237, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 237, 1899, par. 21

We are so thankful that we find the people are not satisfied with the spiritual food which they receive. The Lord is moving upon minds and they are hungering and thirsting for a knowledge of the Scriptures. The Lord would have His workers go where there are people that are spiritually starving. The church in Battle Creek can arouse and must awake to their God-given responsibilities ere they sleep the sleep of death. In the parable of the unwise virgins they can see their future. Not all can be paid a salary as workers, but there are those who can dedicate a portion of their time for missionary work. For some, after the first step is taken the way opens more clearly as they advance. But they first need the holy kindling in their own hearts before they can have divine wisdom to prepare the way of the Lord. Why cannot more persons inquire, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” and then do it wholeheartedly? [Acts 9:6.]

Our Father Cares

Saul to Paul, July 29

OFC 222.1

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. Acts 9:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 177, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 177, 1899, par. 11

We are thinking of holding a meeting next camp meeting season at Singleton, a town of some importance on the line to Queensland, not a great distance from this place. Our canvassers have already been there. Brother Goodheart, and Brother and Sister James, who were appointed to work in Singleton, report that quite a number are deeply interested in the truth. My heart rejoices to see people who will hear the truth. We must pray, depending on the Holy Spirit to make the impression. I hope to see a good work done in the right way. May the Lord help us to do the part appointed us. When we ask sincerely, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6] let us deal honestly with our own souls, and with Him who has bought us with a price. Let us not move without God. We need the spirit of prayer and supplication, that our souls may be fitted for the work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 43, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 43, 1900, par. 23

If we love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves, we shall glorify God. The love of God is wanting. True love to God cannot exist without true love to our neighbor. When our love to God is shown by pure love to our fellow men, then the earnest constant prayer is, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Then we come under the influence of motives which ennoble and elevate the character far above being a mere creature of impulse, to being more fit candidates for immortality and everlasting life. Then it will be our meat and drink to have every thought and action right. We shall live for the good of others, and answer the end [i.e., purpose] of our creation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 65, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 30

When Christ abides in the church, all quarrels, all dissensions, all discourteous words, all selfish actions, will be repudiated. Each member will ask earnestly, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 76, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 76, 1900, par. 27

The very first work for the teacher is to take heed to himself. His work is a responsible one and deserves careful consideration, and he should study earnestly to know his duty and to criticize his fitness for the work. The burden of the soul should be, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] All who are enlightened in the Scriptures are solemnly pledged to devote themselves actively and unreservedly to the service of Christ, for Jesus has bought them with a price and they should no longer live to themselves but unto God who died for them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 88, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 88, 1900, par. 21

Every true partaker of Christ’s nature and character will be sending his cry to God through Jesus Christ, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] We know not what is before us. Men handling sacred things are not worked by the Holy Spirit. They have tampered with conscience so long that they feel self-sufficient to manage their own cases. Oh, it is no use to try to get along, no use to make a shallow pretense of serving the Lord, when that service is so tainted with selfishness that there is an exhibition of the traits of character which will never pass the narrow road, never enter the strait gate! They are altogether too large in dimensions. Like the spreading vine, grasping rubbish, stones, and stumps, they need too much room. They must have their tendrils cut away, and they must become entwined about the Lord. Then He binds them up with Himself. But they cannot discern their defects and will never be restored until they do have an awakening from their present position. They feel not the need of being broken and of humbling themselves before God. They do not sense how worthless are all their doings without Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 82, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 82, 1900, par. 2

We who are on our way to another country need the presence of God, and those whom we have left behind also need to inquire constantly at the throne of grace, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Those who live in close fellowship with Christ will be promoted by Him to positions of trust. The servant who does the best he can for his master, is admitted to familiar intercourse with the one whose commands he loves to obey. In the faithful discharge of duty we may become one with Christ; <for those who are obeying God’s commands may speak to Him freely.> The one who talks most familiarly with his divine Leader has the most exalted conception of His greatness, and is the most obedient to His commands.

15LtMs, Ms 82, 1900, par. 16

In receiving Christ as our Captain, there must be a complete surrender of the human will to the divine will. The Lord can work out His will through those who have made this surrender, for they give prompt and cheerful obedience to His commands. God expects us to obey without questioning. We are to ask, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Then, though the command may be as stern and startling as that given to Abraham, we are to obey. Abraham’s soul was rent asunder by the command, “Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and offer him for a sacrifice on one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.” [Genesis 22:2.] But he did not hesitate to obey.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 96, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 96, 1900, par. 2

We who are on our way to another country need the presence of God, and those whom we have left behind also need to inquire constantly at the throne of grace, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Those who live in close fellowship with Christ will be promoted by Him to positions of trust. The servant who does the best he can for his Master, is admitted to familiar intercourse with the One whose commands he loves to obey. In the faithful discharge of duty we may become one with Christ, for those who are obeying God’s commands may speak to Him freely. The one who talks most familiarly with his divine Leader has the most exalted conception of His greatness, and is the most obedient to His commands.

15LtMs, Ms 96, 1900, par. 18

In receiving Christ as our Captain there must be a complete surrender of the human will to the divine will. The Lord can work out His will through those who have made this surrender, for they give prompt and cheerful obedience to His commands. God expects us to obey without questioning. We are to ask, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Then, though the command may be as stern and startling as that given to Abraham, we are to obey. Abraham’s soul was rent asunder by the command, “Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and offer him for a sacrifice on one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.” [Genesis 22:2.] But he did not hesitate to obey.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 138, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 138, 1901, par. 15

If the men who heard the message given at the time of the Conference—the most solemn message that could be given—had not been so unimpressible, if in sincerity they had asked, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6] the experience of the past year would have been very different from what it is. But they have not made the track clean behind them. They have not confessed their mistakes, and now they are going over the same ground in many things, following the same wrong course of action, because they have destroyed their spiritual eyesight.

Our High Calling

Joy in Humble Service, June 29

OHC 186.1

Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 57, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, par. 12

For our present and eternal good God has given us temporal and spiritual blessings. He expects and enjoins upon us to become servants of His love, to impart to others the grace He has bestowed upon us. We are to act as His helping hand. No narrow, indolent selfishness is to be cherished. We are to inquire, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Those who love Christ will love the souls for whom He gave His life, and will daily reveal this love. Cherish not a narrow, self-centered religion. Let the members of the church arouse. Christ calls upon them to be earnest, energetic, persevering workers. Those who truly believe in Christ and truly love Him are drawn by Him to act a part in the great, grand work of heaven’s love, giving thanks to God for His unspeakable gift.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 43, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 43, 1902, par. 17

Draw your power from the highest Authority, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will reward you according to your work. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] Remember that you are working for God, not for man. Plead earnestly for power, as you strive to win souls to the truth. Show a constantly increasing devotion to God’s service, and leave with Him the measurement of your work. Confer not with flesh and blood. Lay hold of the promises God has given. Do not complain. With a heart melted with the love of God, work for those who know not the truth. Let your inquiry be, “Lord, what wilt thou have me do?” [Acts 9:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 186, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 186, 1902, par. 11

Religion not only improves, but beautifies the disposition and the character. Christ must be blended with all our thoughts, our feelings, our affections. He must be exemplified in the minutest details of every-day service in the work that He has given us to do. When, in the place of leaning upon human understanding or conforming to worldly maxims, we sit at the feet of Jesus, eagerly drinking in His words, learning of Him, and saying, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6] our natural independence, our self-confidence, our strong self-will will be exchanged for a childlike, submissive, teachable spirit. When we are in right relation to God, we shall recognize Christ’s authority to direct us and His claim to our unquestioning obedience.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 94, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 94, 1902, par. 17

The apostle calls their attention to their fault in this respect, which has become their spiritual infirmity. Their misconceptions gave them an indistinct view of Christ’s power to make His people a praise in the earth. How exactly their condition represents the condition of many of the people of God today, who have had every advantage, every privilege, and who, feeling the burden of God’s work, ought to say with the whole heart, “Here I am, Lord; send me. What wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6; Isaiah 6:8.] But in the place of being teachers, as they might be, they do not fully discern or appreciate the value of Bible truth. They cannot bear the application of the plain requirements of Scripture. They are not a strength to the church. They are only hindrances. Had they thoroughly consecrated themselves to the Lord from their first reception of the truth, surrendering themselves unreservedly to Him, and obeying the call, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” [Mark 8:34], they would have walked in the companionship of Christ, learning His lessons, receiving His divine impress. They would have realized the claims of Christ, and would not have been half Christians and half worldlings, but wholehearted Christians, believing and practicing the Word, enlightened continually, not dwelling on vague generalities, but taking their position fully on the side of Christ, recognizing Him as the Teacher from heaven, whose words they must understand and practice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 104, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 104, 1902, par. 43

Instead of choosing the work most pleasing to us, and refusing to do something that our brethren think we should do, we are to inquire, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Instead of marking out the way that natural inclination prompts us to follow, we are to pray, “Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path.” [Psalm 27:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 35, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 35, 1903, par. 11

O how much we need a more intimate acquaintance with the Lord Jesus. We need to enter into His will and carry out His purposes, saying with the whole heart, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] O how I long to see our churches in a condition different from the condition in which they now are—grieving the Holy Spirit day by day with their lukewarm religious life, a life neither cold nor hot. Christ says, “I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” [Revelation 3:15, 16.] O how greatly Christ would be honored and glorified before irreligious, worldly men and women if His followers were what they claim to be—true Christians, the love of Christ constraining them to make Him known before an idolatrous world, showing the marked contrast between those who serve God and those who serve Him not.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 203, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 203, 1905, par. 8

Let many now ask, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] It is the Lord’s purpose that His method of healing without drugs shall be brought into prominence in every large city through our medical institutions. God invests with holy dignity those who go forth in His power to heal the sick. Let the light shine forth farther and still farther, in every place to which it is possible to obtain entrance. Satan will make the work as difficult as possible, but divine power will attend all true-hearted workers. Guided by our heavenly Father’s hand, let us go forward, improving every opportunity to extend the work of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 54, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 54, 1909, par. 11

Let the question go forth from sincere hearts, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] It is the consecrated vessel, the vessel that is cleansed from pride and selfishness, into which is poured the holy oil. It is the soul into whose heart is daily flowing the love and grace of Christ that can impart in large measure of that grace and that love to others

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Sanitariums as Missionary Agencies

9T 168.4

Let the Lord’s work go forward. Let the medical missionary and the educational work go forward. I am sure that this is our great lack—earnest, devoted, intelligent, capable workers. In every large city there should be a representation of true medical missionary work. Let many now ask: “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. It is the Lord’s purpose that His method of healing without drugs shall be brought into prominence in every large city through our medical institutions. God invests with holy dignity those who go forth farther and still farther, in every place to which it is possible to obtain entrance. Satan will make the work as difficult as possible, but divine power will attend all truehearted workers. Guided by our heavenly Father’s hand, let us go forward, improving every opportunity to extend the work of God.

That I May Know Him

Beware of Satan’s Snares, August 4

TMK 222.4

If the eye is single, if it is directed heavenward, the light of heaven will fill the soul, and earthly things will appear insignificant and uninviting. The purpose of the heart will be changed, and the admonition of Jesus will be heeded. You will lay up your treasure in heaven. Your thoughts will be fixed upon the great reward of eternity. All your plans will be made in reference to the future, immortal life. You will be drawn toward your treasure. You will not study your worldly interest, but in all your pursuits the silent inquiry will be, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6). Bible religion will be woven into your daily life.6The Review and Herald, January 24, 1888.

The Sanctified Life

Meekness a Fruit of the Spirit

SL 15.1

The language of the meek is never that of boasting. Like the child Samuel, they pray, “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:9). When Joshua was placed in the highest position of honor, as commander of Israel, he bade defiance to all the enemies of God. His heart was filled with noble thoughts of his great mission. Yet upon the intimation of a message from Heaven he placed himself in the position of a little child to be directed. “What saith my Lord unto his servant?” (Joshua 5:14), was his response. The first words of Paul after Christ was revealed to him were, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6).

This Day With God

Follow on to Know the Lord, November 9

TDG 322.1

Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9:6.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Directed to the Church for Instruction

1TT 391.3

Paul sees his mistaken zeal and cries out: “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6. Jesus did not then and there tell him, as He might have done, the work that He had assigned him. Paul must receive instruction in the Christian faith and move understandingly. Christ sends him to the very disciples whom he had been so bitterly persecuting, to learn of them. The light of heavenly illumination had taken away Paul’s eyesight; but Jesus, the Great Healer of the blind, does not restore it. He answers the question of Paul in these words: “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” Jesus could not only have healed Paul of his blindness, but He could have forgiven his sins and told him his duty by marking out his future course. From Christ all power and mercies were to flow; but He did not give Paul an experience, in his conversion to truth, independent of His church recently organized upon the earth.

1TT 393.1

An angel is sent to Ananias, directing him to go to a certain house where Saul is praying to be instructed in what he is to do next. Saul’s pride is gone. A little before he was self-confident, thinking he was engaged in a good work for which he should receive a reward; but all is now changed. He is bowed down and humbled to the dust in penitence and shame, and his supplications are fervent for pardon. Said the Lord, through His angel, to Ananias: “Behold, he prayeth.” The angel informed the servant of God that he had revealed to Saul in vision a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him that he might receive his sight. Ananias can scarcely credit the words of the angel, and repeats what he has heard of Saul’s bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem. But the command to Ananias is imperative: “Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Verse 15.

1TT 393.2

Ananias was obedient to the direction of the angel. He laid his hands upon the man who so recently was exercised with a spirit of the deepest hatred, breathing out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Christ. Ananias said to Saul: “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.” Verses 17, 18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 54, 1874

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 68

Paul sees his mistaken zeal and cries out, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” Acts 9:6.

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 69

Jesus did not tell Paul then and there, as He might easily have done, the very work He assigned him. Paul must be instructed in the Christian faith and move understandingly. He sends Paul to the very disciples he had been so bitterly persecuting, to learn of them. The light of heavenly illumination had taken away the eyesight of Paul, but Jesus, the great Healer of the blind, does not restore it. He answers the question of Paul in these words, “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” Acts 9:6.

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 72

The men whom Paul was on his way purposing to destroy were to be his instructors in the very religion he had despised and persecuted. He passed three days without food or sight, making his way to the men whom in his blind zeal he was purposing to destroy. Here Jesus places Paul in connection with His representatives upon the earth. The Lord gave Ananias a vision—a vision to go to a certain house in Damascus and call for Saul of Tarsus, “for, behold, he prayeth.” [Verse 11.]

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 74

[Saul’s] pride is gone. A little before, he was self-confident, thinking he was engaged in a good work for which he should receive a reward; but all is now changed. He is bowed down and humbled to the dust in penitence and shame, and his supplications are fervent for pardon. Said the Lord through His angel to Ananias, “Behold, he prayeth.” [Verse 11.] The angel informed the servant of God that he had revealed to Saul in vision a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 75

Ananias can scarcely credit the words of the angel and repeats what he has heard of Saul’s bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem. But the command to Ananias is imperative: “Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:15.

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 76

Ananias was obedient to the direction of the angel. He laid his hands upon the man who so recently was exercised with a spirit of the deepest hatred, breathing out threatenings against all who preached Christ and all who believed on His name. Ananias said to Saul, “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales; and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.” Acts 9:17, 18.

2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 82

Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and their experience, independent of Christ’s acknowledged body in the world. But this is condemned by Jesus Christ in His teachings, and in the examples [and] facts given to us for our instruction. Here was Paul, one whom Christ was to fit for a most important work, one who was to be a chosen vessel unto Him, brought directly into the presence of Christ. Yet He does not teach him the lessons of truth he must learn. He arrests his course, He convicts him. [When] he asks Christ, “What wilt thou have me to do?” the Saviour does not tell him directly, but places him [for] his direction in connection with His church. They will tell thee what thou must do. [Verse 6.]

Conflict and Courage

Saul to Paul, November 29

CC 339.1

And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. Acts 9:6.

CC 339.2

In the wonderful conversion of Paul we see the miraculous power of God.... Jesus, whose name of all others he most hated and despised, revealed Himself to Paul for the purpose of arresting his mad yet honest career, that He might make this most unpromising instrument a chosen vessel to bear the gospel to the Gentiles.... The light of heavenly illumination had taken away Paul’s eyesight; but Jesus, the Great Healer of the blind, does not restore it. He answers the question of Paul in these words: “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.” Jesus could not only have healed Paul of his blindness, but He could have forgiven his sins and told him his duty by marking out his future course. From Christ all power and mercies were to flow; but He did not give Paul an experience, in his conversion to truth, independent of His church recently organized upon the earth.

CC 339.3

The marvelous light given Paul upon that occasion astonished and confounded him. He was wholly subdued. This part of the work man could not do for Paul, but there was a work still to be accomplished which the servants of Christ could do. Jesus directs him to His agents in the church for a further knowledge of duty. Thus He gives authority and sanction to His organized church. Christ had done the work of revelation and conviction, and now Paul was in a condition to learn of those whom God had ordained to teach the truth. Christ directs Paul to His chosen servants, thus placing him in connection with His church. The very men whom Paul was purposing to destroy were to be his instructors in the very religion that he had despised and persecuted....

CC 339.4

An angel is sent to Ananias, directing him to go to a certain house where Saul is praying to be instructed in what he is to do next.... In Christ’s stead Ananias touches his eyes that they may receive sight; in Christ’s stead he lays his hands upon him, prays in Christ’s name, and Saul receives the Holy Ghost.64Testimonies for the Church 3:429-433.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Paul, The Apostle to the Gentiles

GW 58.2

Before his conversion, Paul was a bitter persecutor of the followers of Christ. But at the gate of Damascus a voice spoke to him, light from heaven shone into his soul, and in the revelation that there came to him, of the Crucified One, he beheld that which changed the whole current of his life. Henceforth love for the Lord of glory, whom he had so relentlessly persecuted in the person of His saints, came before all else. To him had been given the ministry of making known “the mystery” which had been “kept secret since the world began.” [Romans 16:25.] “He is a chosen vessel unto Me,” declared the Angel who appeared to Ananias, “to bear My name before the Gentiles, and Kings, and the children of Israel.” [Acts 9:15.]

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 16—The Gospel Message in Antioch

AA 159.1

Paul’s labors at Antioch, in association with Barnabas, strengthened him in his conviction that the Lord had called him to do a special work for the Gentile world. At the time of Paul’s conversion, the Lord had declared that he was to be made a minister to the Gentiles, “to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:18. The angel that appeared to Ananias had said of Paul, “He is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:15. And Paul himself, later in his Christian experience, while praying in the temple at Jerusalem, had been visited by an angel from heaven, who bade him, “Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.” Acts 22:21.

The Truth About Angels

Paul Leaves Damascus

TA 229.5

Paul’s labors at Antioch, in association with Barnabas, strengthened him in his conviction that the Lord had called him to do a special work for the Gentile world. At the time of Paul’s conversion, the Lord had declared that he was to be made a minister to the Gentiles, “to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive the forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:18. The angel that appeared to Ananias, had said of Paul, “He is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:15. And Paul himself, later in his Christian experience, while praying in the temple at Jerusalem, had been visited by an angel from heaven, who bade him, “Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.” Acts 22:21.—The Acts of the Apostles, 159.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 16—Dramatic Success at Antioch

TT 85.1

Paul’s labors with Barnabas strengthened his conviction that the Lord had called him to work for the Gentile world. At his conversion the Lord had declared that he was to minister to the Gentiles, “to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:18. The angel had said to Ananias, “He is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:15.

Sons and Daughters of God

Paul Blinded so He Would See Christ, March 30

SD 96.1

And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. Acts 9:17.

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.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 13—Days of Preparation

AA 123.1

After his baptism, Paul broke his fast and remained “certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.” Boldly he declared Jesus of Nazareth to be the long-looked-for Messiah, who “died for our sins according to the Scriptures; ... was buried, and ... rose again the third day,” after which He was seen by the Twelve and by others. “And last of all,” Paul added, “He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.” 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4, 8. His arguments from prophecy were so conclusive, and his efforts were so manifestly attended by the power of God, that the Jews were confounded and unable to answer him.

AA 123.2

The news of Paul’s conversion had come to the Jews as a great surprise. He who had journeyed to Damascus “with authority and commission from the chief priests” (Acts 26:12) to apprehend and persecute the believers was now preaching the gospel of a crucified and risen Saviour, strengthening the hands of those who were already its disciples, and continually bringing in new converts to the faith he had once so bitterly opposed.

AA 124.1

Paul had formerly been known as a zealous defender of the Jewish religion and an untiring persecutor of the followers of Jesus. Courageous, independent, persevering, his talents and training would have enabled him to serve in almost any capacity. He could reason with extraordinary clearness, and by his withering sarcasm could place an opponent in no enviable light. And now the Jews saw this young man of unusual promise united with those whom he formerly persecuted, and fearlessly preaching in the name of Jesus.

AA 124.2

A general slain in battle is lost to his army, but his death gives no additional strength to the enemy. But when a man of prominence joins the opposing force, not only are his services lost, but those to whom he joins himself gain a decided advantage. Saul of Tarsus, on his way to Damascus, might easily have been struck dead by the Lord, and much strength would have been withdrawn from the persecuting power. But God in His providence not only spared Saul’s life, but converted him, thus transferring a champion from the side of the enemy to the side of Christ. An eloquent speaker and a severe critic, Paul, with his stern purpose and undaunted courage, possessed the very qualifications needed in the early church.

AA 124.3

As Paul preached Christ in Damascus, all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?” Paul declared that his change of faith had not been prompted by impulse or fanaticism, but had been brought about by overwhelming evidence. In his presentation of the gospel he sought to make plain the prophecies relating to the first advent of Christ. He showed conclusively that these prophecies had been literally fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth. The foundation of his faith was the sure word of prophecy.

AA 125.1

As Paul continued to appeal to his astonished hearers to “repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance” (Acts 26:20), he “increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.” But many hardened their hearts, refusing to respond to his message, and soon their astonishment at his conversion was changed into intense hatred like that which they had shown toward Jesus.

AA 125.2

The opposition grew so fierce that Paul was not allowed to continue his labors at Damascus. A messenger from heaven bade him leave for a time, and he “went into Arabia” (Galatians 1:17), where he found a safe retreat.

AA 125.3

Here, in the solitude of the desert, Paul had ample opportunity for quiet study and meditation. He calmly reviewed his past experience and made sure work of repentance. He sought God with all his heart, resting not until he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted and his sin pardoned. He longed for the assurance that Jesus would be with him in his coming ministry. He emptied his soul of the prejudices and traditions that had hitherto shaped his life, and received instruction from the Source of truth. Jesus communed with him and established him in the faith, bestowing upon him a rich measure of wisdom and grace.

AA 126.1

When the mind of man is brought into communion with the mind of God, the finite with the Infinite, the effect on body and mind and soul is beyond estimate. In such communion is found the highest education. It is God’s own method of development. “Acquaint now thyself with Him” (Job 22:21), is His message to mankind.

AA 126.2

The solemn charge that had been given Paul on the occasion of his interview with Ananias, rested with increasing weight upon his heart. When, in response to the word, “Brother Saul, receive thy sight,” Paul had for the first time looked upon the face of this devout man, Ananias under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit said to him: “The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know His will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:13-16.

AA 126.3

These words were in harmony with the words of Jesus Himself, who, when He arrested Saul on the journey to Damascus, declared: “I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:16-18.

AA 127.1

As he pondered these things in his heart, Paul understood more and more clearly the meaning of his call “to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:1. His call had come, “not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father.” Galatians 1:1. The greatness of the work before him led him to give much study to the Holy Scriptures, in order that he might preach the gospel “not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect,” “but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,” that the faith of all who heard “should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:17; 2:4, 5.

AA 127.2

As Paul searched the Scriptures, he learned that throughout the ages “not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: that no flesh should glory in His presence.” 1 Corinthians 1:26-29. And so, viewing the wisdom of the world in the light of the cross, Paul “determined not to know anything, ... save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2.

AA 128.1

Throughout his later ministry, Paul never lost sight of the Source of his wisdom and strength. Hear him, years afterward, still declaring, “For to me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21. And again: “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, ... that I may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings.” Philippians 3:8-10.

AA 128.2

From Arabia Paul “returned again unto Damascus” (Galatians 1:17), and “preached boldly ... in the name of Jesus.” Unable to withstand the wisdom of his arguments, “the Jews took counsel to kill him.” The gates of the city were diligently guarded day and night to cut off his escape. This crisis led the disciples to seek God earnestly, and finally they “took him by night, and let him down through the wall, lowering him in a basket.” Acts 9:25, R.V.

AA 128.3

After his escape from Damascus, Paul went to Jerusalem, about three years having passed since his conversion. His chief object in making this visit, as he himself declared afterward, was “to see Peter.” Galatians 1:18. Upon arriving in the city where he had once been well known as “Saul the persecutor,” “he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.” It was difficult for them to believe that so bigoted a Pharisee, and one who had done so much to destroy the church, could become a sincere follower of Jesus. “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.”

AA 129.1

Upon hearing this, the disciples received him as one of their number. Soon they had abundant evidence as to the genuineness of his Christian experience. The future apostle to the Gentiles was now in the city where many of his former associates lived, and to these Jewish leaders he longed to make plain the prophecies concerning the Messiah, which had been fulfilled by the advent of the Saviour. Paul felt sure that these teachers in Israel, with whom he had once been so well acquainted, were as sincere and honest as he had been. But he had miscalculated the spirit of his Jewish brethren, and in the hope of their speedy conversion he was doomed to bitter disappointment. Although “he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians,” those who stood at the head of the Jewish church refused to believe, but “went about to slay him.” Sorrow filled his heart. He would willingly have yielded up his life if by that means he might bring some to a knowledge of the truth. With shame he thought of the active part he had taken in the martyrdom of Stephen, and now in his anxiety to wipe out the stain resting upon one so falsely accused, he sought to vindicate the truth for which Stephen had given his life.

AA 130.1

Burdened in behalf of those who refused to believe, Paul was praying in the temple, as he himself afterward testified, when he fell into a trance; whereupon a heavenly messenger appeared before him and said, “Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning Me.” Acts 22:18.

AA 130.2

Paul was inclined to remain at Jerusalem, where he could face the opposition. To him it seemed an act of cowardice to flee, if by remaining he might be able to convince some of the obstinate Jews of the truth of the gospel message, even if to remain should cost him his life. And so he answered, “Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on Thee: and when the blood of Thy martyr Stephen was shed, I was also standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.” But it was not in harmony with the purpose of God that His servant should needlessly expose his life; and the heavenly messenger replied, “Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.” Acts 22:19-21.

AA 130.3

Upon learning of this vision, the brethren hastened Paul’s secret escape from Jerusalem, for fear of his assassination. “They brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.” The departure of Paul suspended for a time the violent opposition of the Jews, and the church had a period of rest, in which many were added to the number of believers.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 13—How God Educated Paul

TT 66.1

Paul remained “certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God,” who “died for our sins according to the Scriptures; ... was buried, and ... rose again the third day.” 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4. His arguments from prophecy were so conclusive that the Jews were confounded and unable to answer him.

TT 66.2

He who had journeyed to Damascus to persecute the believers was now preaching the gospel, strengthening its disciples, and bringing in new converts! Formerly known as a zealous defender of the Jewish religion, Paul could reason with extraordinary clearness, and by his withering sarcasm could place an opponent in no enviable light. Now the Jews saw this young man of unusual promise fearlessly preaching in the name of Jesus.

TT 66.3

A general slain in battle is lost to his army, but his death gives no strength to the enemy. But when a man of prominence joins the opposing forces, they gain a decided advantage. Saul might easily have been struck dead by the Lord, and much strength would have been withdrawn from the persecuting power. But God not only spared Saul’s life but converted him, transferring a champion from the side of the enemy to the side of Christ. An eloquent speaker and a severe critic, Paul, with stern purpose and undaunted courage, possessed the very qualifications needed in the early church.

TT 67.1

All who heard him in Damascus were amazed. He declared that his change of faith had not been prompted by impulse, but by overwhelming evidence. He showed that the prophecies relating to the first advent of Christ had been literally fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth.

TT 67.2

Paul “increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.” But many hardened their hearts, and soon their astonishment at his conversion was changed into intense hatred.

TT 67.3

The opposition grew so fierce that Paul was not allowed to continue at Damascus. He “went into Arabia” (Galatians 1:17), where he found a safe retreat.

TT 67.4

In the solitude of the desert Paul had opportunity for study and meditation. He calmly reviewed his past experience and sought God with all his heart, resting not until he knew for certain that his repentance was accepted and his sin pardoned. Jesus communed with him and established him in the faith, bestowing upon him a rich measure of wisdom and grace. When the mind is brought into communion with the mind of God, the effect on body, mind, and soul is beyond estimate.

TT 69.1

Soon the disciples had abundant evidence as to the genuineness of his experience. The future apostle to the Gentiles was now where his former associates lived, and he longed to make plain to these leaders the prophecies concerning the Messiah. Paul felt sure that these teachers in Israel were as sincere and honest as he had been. But he had miscalculated. Those at the head of the Jewish church refused to believe, but “went about to slay him.”

TT 69.2

Sorrow filled his heart. With shame he thought of the part he had taken in the martyrdom of Stephen, and now he sought to vindicate the truth for which Stephen had given his life.

TT 69.4

Learning of this vision, the brethren hastened Paul’s secret escape. They “brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.” The departure of Paul suspended for a time the violent opposition of the Jews, and many were added to the number of believers.

From Trials to Triumph

Paul’s “University” in the Desert

TT 67.5

Ananias under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit had said to Paul: “The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know His will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth. For thou shalt be His witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:14-16.

TT 67.6

Jesus Himself, when He arrested Saul on the journey to Damascus, declared: “I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:16-18.

TT 68.1

As he pondered these things, Paul understood more clearly his call “to be an apostle of Christ Jesus.” 1 Corinthians 1:1. His call had come “not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father.” Galatians 1:1, RSV. He gave much study to the Scriptures, that he might preach “not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power,” “but in demonstration of the Spirit and power,” that the faith of all who heard “might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:17; 2:4, 5, RSV. Viewing the wisdom of the world in the light of the cross, Paul “decided to know nothing ... except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2, RSV.

TT 68.2

Paul never lost sight of the Source of wisdom and strength. Hear him declare, “For to me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21. “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things.” Philippians 3:8, RSV.

From Trials to Triumph

The Former Persecutor Is Persecuted

TT 68.3

From Arabia Paul “returned again unto Damascus” (Galatians 1:17), and “preached boldly ... in the name of Jesus.” Unable to withstand his arguments, “the Jews took counsel to kill him.” The gates of the city were guarded day and night to cut off his escape. Finally, the disciples “took him by night and let him down over the wall, lowering him in a basket.” RSV.

TT 68.4

After his escape he went to Jerusalem, about three years having passed since his conversion. His chief object was to visit Peter. Galatians 1:18. Upon arriving “he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.” Could so bigoted a Pharisee become a sincere follower of Jesus? “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.”

TT 69.3

Burdened for those who refused to believe, Paul was praying in the temple when a heavenly messenger appeared and said, “Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning Me.” Acts 22:18. To Paul it seemed an act of cowardice to flee. And so he answered: “Lord, they themselves know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believed in Thee. And when the blood of Stephen Thy witness was shed, I also was standing by and approving, and keeping the garments of those who killed him.” But it was not the purpose of God that His servant should needlessly expose his life, and the heavenly messenger replied, “Depart; for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.” Verses 19-21, RSV.

The Story of Redemption

Chapter 38—The Early Ministry of Paul

SR 276.1

Paul now returned to Damascus and preached boldly in the name of Jesus. The Jews could not withstand the wisdom of his arguments, and they therefore counseled together to silence his voice by force—the only argument left to a sinking cause. They decided to assassinate him. The apostle was made acquainted with their purpose. The gates of the city were vigilantly guarded, day and night, to cut off his escape. The anxiety of the disciples drew them to God in prayer; there was little sleeping among them, as they were busy in devising ways and means for the escape of the chosen apostle. Finally they conceived a plan by which he was let down from a window and lowered over the wall in a basket at night. In this humiliating manner Paul made his escape from Damascus.

SR 276.2

He now proceeded to Jerusalem, wishing to become acquainted with the apostles there, and especially with Peter. He was very anxious to meet the Galilean fishermen who had lived, and prayed, and conversed with Christ upon earth. It was with a yearning heart that he desired to meet the chief of apostles. As Paul entered Jerusalem, he regarded with changed views the city and the temple. He now knew that the retributive judgment of God was hanging over them.

SR 276.3

The grief and anger of the Jews because of the conversion of Paul knew no bounds. But he was firm as a rock, and flattered himself that when he related his wonderful experience to his friends, they would change their faith as he had done, and believe on Jesus. He had been strictly conscientious in his opposition to Christ and His followers, and when he was arrested and convicted of his sin, he immediately forsook his evil ways and professed the faith of Jesus. He now fully believed that when his friends and former associates heard the circumstances of his marvelous conversion, and saw how changed he was from the proud Pharisee who persecuted and delivered unto death those who believed in Jesus as the Son of God, they would also become convicted of their error and join the ranks of the believers.

SR 277.1

He attempted to join himself to his brethren, the disciples; but great was his grief and disappointment when he found that they would not receive him as one of their number. They remembered his former persecutions, and suspected him of acting a part to deceive and destroy them. True, they had heard of his wonderful conversion, but as he had immediately retired into Arabia, and they had heard nothing definite of him further, they had not credited the rumor of his great change.

SR 277.2

Barnabas, who had liberally contributed his money to sustain the cause of Christ and to relieve the necessities of the poor, had been acquainted with Paul when he opposed the believers. He now came forward and renewed that acquaintance, heard the testimony of Paul in regard to his miraculous conversion and his experience from that time. He fully believed and received Paul, took him by the hand and led him into the presence of the apostles. He related his experience which he had just heard—that Jesus had personally appeared to Paul while on his way to Damascus; that He had talked with him; that Paul had recovered his sight in answer to the prayers of Ananias, and had afterward maintained that Jesus was the Son of God in the synagogues of that city.

SR 278.1

The apostles no longer hesitated; they could not withstand God. Peter and James, who at that time were the only apostles in Jerusalem, gave the right hand of fellowship to the once fierce persecutor of their faith; and he was now as much beloved and respected as he had formerly been feared and avoided. Here the two grand characters of the new faith met—Peter, one of the chosen companions of Christ while He was upon earth, and Paul, the Pharisee, who, since the ascension of Jesus, had met Him face to face and had talked with Him, and had also seen Him in vision, and the nature of His work in heaven.

SR 278.2

This first interview was of great consequence to both these apostles, but it was of short duration, for Paul was eager to get about his Master’s business. Soon the voice which had so earnestly disputed with Stephen was heard in the same synagogue fearlessly proclaiming that Jesus was the Son of God—advocating the same cause that Stephen had died to vindicate. He related his own wonderful experience, and with a heart filled with yearning for his brethren and former associates, presented the evidences from prophecy, as Stephen had done, that Jesus, who had been crucified, was the Son of God.

SR 278.3

But Paul had miscalculated the spirit of his Jewish brethren. The same fury that had burst forth upon Stephen was visited upon himself. He saw that he must separate from his brethren, and sorrow filled his heart. He would willingly have yielded up his life if by that means they might have been brought to a knowledge of the truth. The Jews began to lay plans to take his life, and the disciples urged him to leave Jerusalem; but he lingered, unwilling to leave the place, and anxious to labor a little longer for his Jewish brethren. He had taken so active a part in the martyrdom of Stephen that he was deeply anxious to wipe out the stain by boldly vindicating the truth which had cost Stephen his life. It looked to him like cowardice to flee from Jerusalem.

SR 279.1

While Paul, braving all the consequences of such a step, was praying earnestly to God in the temple, the Saviour appeared to him in vision, saying, “Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning Me.” Paul even then hesitated to leave Jerusalem without convincing the obstinate Jews of the truth of his faith; he thought that, even if his life should be sacrificed for the truth, it would not more than settle the fearful account which he held against himself for the death of Stephen. He answered, “Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on Thee: and when the blood of Thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.” But the reply was more decided than before: “Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.”

SR 279.2

When the brethren learned of the vision of Paul, and the care which God had over him, their anxiety on his behalf was increased; for they realized that he was indeed a chosen vessel of the Lord, to bear the truth to the Gentiles. They hastened his secret escape from Jerusalem, for fear of his assassination by the Jews. The departure of Paul suspended for a time the violent opposition of the Jews, and the church had a period of rest, in which many were added to the number of believers.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 14—A Seeker for Truth

AA 131.1

In the course of his ministry the apostle Peter visited the believers at Lydda. Here he healed Aeneas, who for eight years had been confined to his bed with palsy. “Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole,” the apostle said; “arise, and make thy bed.” “He arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.”

AA 131.2

At Joppa, which was near Lydda, there lived a woman named Dorcas, whose good deeds had made her greatly beloved. She was a worthy disciple of Jesus, and her life was filled with acts of kindness. She knew who needed comfortable clothing and who needed sympathy, and she freely ministered to the poor and the sorrowful. Her skillful fingers were more active than her tongue.

AA 131.3

“And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died.” The church in Joppa realized their loss, and hearing that Peter was at Lydda, the believers sent messengers to him, “desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.” In view of the life of service that Dorcas had lived, it is little wonder that they mourned, that warm teardrops fell upon the inanimate clay.

AA 132.1

The apostle’s heart was touched with sympathy as he beheld their sorrow. Then, directing that the weeping friends be sent from the room, he kneeled down and prayed fervently to God to restore Dorcas to life and health. Turning to the body, he said, “Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.” Dorcas had been of great service to the church, and God saw fit to bring her back from the land of the enemy, that her skill and energy might still be a blessing to others, and also that by this manifestation of His power the cause of Christ might be strengthened.

AA 132.2

It was while Peter was still at Joppa that he was called by God to take the gospel to Cornelius, in Caesarea.

AA 132.3

Cornelius was a Roman centurion. He was a man of wealth and noble birth, and his position was one of trust and honor. A heathen by birth, training, and education, through contact with the Jews he had gained a knowledge of God, and he worshiped Him with a true heart, showing the sincerity of his faith by compassion to the poor. He was known far and near for his beneficence, and his righteous life made him of good repute among both Jews and Gentiles. His influence was a blessing to all with whom he came in contact. The inspired record describes him as “a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.”

AA 133.1

Believing in God as the Creator of heaven and earth, Cornelius revered Him, acknowledged His authority, and sought His counsel in all the affairs of life. He was faithful to Jehovah in his home life and in his official duties. He had erected the altar of God in his home, for he dared not attempt to carry out his plans or to bear his responsibilities without the help of God.

AA 133.2

Though Cornelius believed the prophecies and was looking for the Messiah to come, he had not a knowledge of the gospel as revealed in the life and death of Christ. He was not a member of the Jewish church and would have been looked upon by the rabbis as a heathen and unclean. But the same Holy Watcher who said of Abraham, “I know him,” knew Cornelius also, and sent a message direct from heaven to him.

AA 133.3

The angel appeared to Cornelius while he was at prayer. As the centurion heard himself addressed by name, he was afraid, yet he knew that the messenger had come from God, and he said, “What is it, Lord?” The angel answered, “Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the seaside.”

AA 133.4

The explicitness of these directions, in which was named even the occupation of the man with whom Peter was staying, shows that Heaven is acquainted with the history and business of men in every station of life. God is familiar with the experience and work of the humble laborer, as well as with that of the king upon his throne.

AA 134.1

“Send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon.” Thus God gave evidence of His regard for the gospel ministry and for His organized church. The angel was not commissioned to tell Cornelius the story of the cross. A man subject, even as the centurion himself, to human frailties and temptations, was to be the one to tell him of the crucified and risen Saviour.

AA 134.2

As His representatives among men, God does not choose angels who have never fallen, but human beings, men of like passions with those they seek to save. Christ took humanity that He might reach humanity. A divine-human Saviour was needed to bring salvation to the world. And to men and women has been committed the sacred trust of making known “the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Ephesians 3:8.

AA 134.3

In His wisdom the Lord brings those who are seeking for truth into touch with fellow beings who know the truth. It is the plan of Heaven that those who have received light shall impart it to those in darkness. Humanity, drawing its efficiency from the great Source of wisdom, is made the instrumentality, the working agency, through which the gospel exercises its transforming power on mind and heart.

AA 134.4

Cornelius was gladly obedient to the vision. When the angel had gone, the centurion “called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; and when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.”

AA 135.1

The angel, after his interview with Cornelius, went to Peter, in Joppa. At the time, Peter was praying upon the housetop of his lodging, and we read that he “became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance.” It was not for physical food alone that Peter hungered. As from the housetop he viewed the city of Joppa and the surrounding country he hungered for the salvation of his countrymen. He had an intense desire to point out to them from the Scriptures the prophecies relating to the sufferings and death of Christ.

AA 135.2

In the vision Peter “saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: wherein were all manner of four-footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.”

AA 135.3

This vision conveyed to Peter both reproof and instruction. It revealed to him the purpose of God—that by the death of Christ the Gentiles should be made fellow heirs with the Jews to the blessings of salvation. As yet none of the disciples had preached the gospel to the Gentiles. In their minds the middle wall of partition, broken down by the death of Christ, still existed, and their labors had been confined to the Jews, for they had looked upon the Gentiles as excluded from the blessings of the gospel. Now the Lord was seeking to teach Peter the world-wide extent of the divine plan.

AA 136.1

Many of the Gentiles had been interested listeners to the preaching of Peter and the other apostles, and many of the Greek Jews had become believers in Christ, but the conversion of Cornelius was to be the first of importance among the Gentiles.

AA 136.2

The time had come for an entirely new phase of work to be entered upon by the church of Christ. The door that many of the Jewish converts had closed against the Gentiles was now to be thrown open. And the Gentiles who accepted the gospel were to be regarded as on an equality with the Jewish disciples, without the necessity of observing the rite of circumcision.

AA 136.3

How carefully the Lord worked to overcome the prejudice against the Gentiles that had been so firmly fixed in Peter’s mind by his Jewish training! By the vision of the sheet and its contents He sought to divest the apostle’s mind of this prejudice and to teach the important truth that in heaven there is no respect of persons; that Jew and Gentile are alike precious in God’s sight; that through Christ the heathen may be made partakers of the blessings and privileges of the gospel.

AA 136.4

While Peter was meditating on the meaning of the vision, the men sent from Cornelius arrived in Joppa and stood before the gate of his lodginghouse. Then the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.”

AA 137.1

To Peter this was a trying command, and it was with reluctance at every step that he undertook the duty laid upon him; but he dared not disobey. He “went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?” They told him of their singular errand, saying, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by a holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.”

AA 137.2

In obedience to the directions just received from God, the apostle promised to go with them. On the following morning he set out for Caesarea, accompanied by six of his brethren. These were to be witnesses of all that he should say or do while visiting the Gentiles, for Peter knew that he would be called to account for so direct a violation of the Jewish teachings.

AA 137.3

As Peter entered the house of the Gentile, Cornelius did not salute him as an ordinary visitor, but as one honored of Heaven and sent to him by God. It is an Eastern custom to bow before a prince or other high dignitary and for children to bow before their parents; but Cornelius, overwhelmed with reverence for the one sent by God to teach him, fell at the apostle’s feet and worshiped him. Peter was horror-stricken, and he lifted the centurion up, saying, “Stand up; I myself also am a man.”

AA 138.1

While the messengers of Cornelius had been gone upon their errand, the centurion “had called together his kinsmen and near friends,” that they as well as he might hear the preaching of the gospel. When Peter arrived, he found a large company eagerly waiting to listen to his words.

AA 138.2

To those assembled, Peter spoke first of the custom of the Jews, saying that it was looked upon as unlawful for Jews to mingle socially with the Gentiles, that to do this involved ceremonial defilement. “Ye know,” he said, “how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath showed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?”

AA 138.3

Cornelius then related his experience and the words of the angel, saying in conclusion, “Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.”

AA 138.4

Peter said, “Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him.”

AA 138.5

Then to that company of attentive hearers the apostle preached Christ—His life, His miracles, His betrayal and crucifixion, His resurrection and ascension, and His work in heaven as man’s representative and advocate. As Peter pointed those present to Jesus as the sinner’s only hope, he himself understood more fully the meaning of the vision he had seen, and his heart glowed with the spirit of the truth that he was presenting.

AA 139.1

Suddenly the discourse was interrupted by the descent of the Holy Spirit. “While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God.

AA 139.2

“Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.”

AA 139.3

Thus was the gospel brought to those who had been strangers and foreigners, making them fellow citizens with the saints, and members of the household of God. The conversion of Cornelius and his household was but the first fruits of a harvest to be gathered in. From this household a wide-spread work of grace was carried on in that heathen city.

AA 139.4

Today God is seeking for souls among the high as well as the lowly. There are many like Cornelius, men whom the Lord desires to connect with His work in the world. Their sympathies are with the Lord’s people, but the ties that bind them to the world hold them firmly. It requires moral courage for them to take their position for Christ. Special efforts should be made for these souls, who are in so great danger, because of their responsibilities and associations.

AA 140.1

God calls for earnest, humble workers, who will carry the gospel to the higher class. There are miracles to be wrought in genuine conversions,—miracles that are not now discerned. The greatest men of this earth are not beyond the power of a wonder-working God. If those who are workers together with Him will be men of opportunity, doing their duty bravely and faithfully, God will convert men who occupy responsible positions, men of intellect and influence. Through the power of the Holy Spirit many will accept the divine principles. Converted to the truth, they will become agencies in the hand of God to communicate the light. They will have a special burden for other souls of this neglected class. Time and money will be consecrated to the work of the Lord, and new efficiency and power will be added to the church.

AA 140.2

Because Cornelius was living in obedience to all the instruction he had received, God so ordered events that he was given more truth. A messenger from the courts of heaven was sent to the Roman officer and to Peter in order that Cornelius might be brought into touch with one who could lead him into greater light.

AA 140.3

There are in our world many who are nearer the kingdom of God than we suppose. In this dark world of sin the Lord has many precious jewels, to whom He will guide His messengers. Everywhere there are those who will take their stand for Christ. Many will prize the wisdom of God above any earthly advantage, and will become faithful light bearers. Constrained by the love of Christ, they will constrain others to come to Him.

AA 141.1

When the brethren in Judea heard that Peter had gone to the house of a Gentile and preached to those assembled, they were surprised and offended. They feared that such a course, which looked to them presumptuous, would have the effect of counteracting his own teaching. When they next saw Peter they met him with severe censure, saying, “Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.”

AA 141.2

Peter laid the whole matter before them. He related his experience in regard to the vision and pleaded that it admonished him to observe no longer the ceremonial distinction of circumcision and uncircumcision, nor to look upon the Gentiles as unclean. He told them of the command given him to go to the Gentiles, of the coming of the messengers, of his journey to Caesarea, and of the meeting with Cornelius. He recounted the substance of his interview with the centurion, in which the latter had told him of the vision by which he had been directed to send for Peter.

AA 141.3

“As I began to speak,” he said, in relating his experience, “the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that He said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as He did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?”

AA 142.1

On hearing this account, the brethren were silenced. Convinced that Peter’s course was in direct fulfillment of the plan of God, and that their prejudices and exclusiveness were utterly contrary to the spirit of the gospel, they glorified God, saying, “Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.”

AA 142.2

Thus, without controversy, prejudice was broken down, the exclusiveness established by the custom of ages was abandoned, and the way was opened for the gospel to be proclaimed to the Gentiles.