EGW WritingsColossians 1
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 2
Read Colossians 1 in the BibleColossians 1:15
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 43, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 43, 1897, par. 7
And with clearness and power did Christ set forth the attributes of God. He is “the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person,” even “the image of the invisible God.” [Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:15.] Yet He humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant. Our Redeemer is a perfect revelation of the Godhead; and it is of importance that as His disciples, we understand through Him God’s relation to us. He is the world’s great Teacher. And what we know of God through Him is the measure of our acquaintance with a practical knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 250, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 250, 1903, par. 3
Neither Christ nor the apostles taught the doctrines that are found in Living Temple. They taught clearly the truth of the existence of a personal God. Paul speaks of Christ as “the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” [Colossians 1:15.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Head of Humanity, April 25
JNN 125.1
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.—Colossians 1:15Colossians 1:15-17
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 77, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 77, 1899, par. 19
Christ is “the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible, and invisible; whether they be thrones or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” [Colossians 1:15-17.] This first chapter of Colossians is a wonderful chapter to enlighten the mind as to the truth as it is in Jesus. If we will study it, we will understand how it is that Christ has made it possible for man, fallen through disobedience and transgression, to keep all the commandments of God.Colossians 1:16
Lift Him Up
God’s Love Expressed in Creation, February 5
LHU 50.1
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him. Colossians 1:16.LHU 50.5
The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Colossians 1:16). Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of his person,” “the brightness of his glory,” “upholding all things by the word of his power,” holds supremacy over them all (Hebrews 1:3)....Homeward Bound
The Sabbath Created by Christ, June 15
HB 188.1
For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible.—Colossians 1:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 256, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 256, 1906, par. 9
“The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. ‘By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him, and for Him.’ [Colossians 1:16.] Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence, and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the ‘express image of His person,’ ‘the brightness of His glory,’ ‘upholding all things by the word of His power,’ holds supremacy over them all. [Hebrews 1:3.] ‘A glorious high throne from the beginning,’ was the place of His sanctuary; ‘a scepter of righteousness,’ the scepter of His kingdom. [Jeremiah 17:12; Hebrews 1:8.] ‘Honor and majesty are before Him. Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.’ [Psalm 96:6.] Mercy and truth go before His face. ...Jesus, Name Above All Names
Co-Worker, March 17
JNN 85.4
The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him” (Colossians 1:16). Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all (Hebrews 1:3). “A glorious high throne from the beginning,” was the place of His sanctuary (Jeremiah 17:12); “a scepter of righteousness,” the scepter of His kingdom (Hebrews 1:8). “Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His sanctuary” (Psalm 96:6).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 33, 34.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 1—Why was Sin Permitted?
PP 34.2
The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him.” Colossians 1:16. Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all. Hebrews 1:3. “A glorious high throne from the beginning,” was the place of His sanctuary (Jeremiah 17:12); “a scepter of righteousness,” the scepter of His kingdom. Hebrews 1:8. “Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.” Psalm 96:6. Mercy and truth go before His face. Psalm 89:14.That I May Know Him
Christ the Eternal Word, January 5
TMK 11.3
The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Colossians 1:16). Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence, and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of his person,” “the brightness of his glory,” “upholding all things by the word of his power,” holds supremacy over them all (Hebrews 1:3).10Patriarchs and Prophets, 34.The Great Controversy
Chapter 29—The Origin of Evil
GC 493.1
Before the entrance of evil there was peace and joy throughout the universe. All was in perfect harmony with the Creator’s will. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. Christ the Word, the Only Begotten of God, was one with the eternal Father,—one in nature, in character, and in purpose,—the only being in all the universe that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God. By Christ the Father wrought in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, that are in heaven, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers” (Colossians 1:16); and to Christ, equally with the Father, all heaven gave allegiance.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 29—The Origin of Evil
GC88 493.1
Before the entrance of evil, there was peace and joy throughout the universe. All was in perfect harmony with the Creator’s will. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. Christ the Word, the only begotten of God, was one with the eternal Father,—one in nature, in character, and in purpose,—the only being in all the universe that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God. By Christ, the Father wrought in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By him were all things created, that are in Heaven, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers;” [Colossians 1:16.] and to Christ, equally with the Father, all Heaven gave allegiance.From Eternity Past
Chapter 1—Why Was Sin Permitted?
EP 9.4
The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers.” Colossians 1:16. Angels are God’s ministers speeding to execute His will. But the Son, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all. See Hebrews 1:3, 8.From Here to Forever
Chapter 29—Why Was Sin Permitted?
HF 304.3
Before the entrance of evil there was peace and joy throughout the universe. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. Christ the Only Begotten of God was one with the eternal Father in nature, in character, and in purpose—the only being that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God. “By him were all things created, that are in heaven, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers.” Colossians 1:16.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Chapter 1—Why Is There Suffering?
GrH_c 1.3
Before the entrance of evil there was peace and joy throughout the universe. Love for God was supreme, love for one another impartial. Christ the Only Begotten of God was one with the eternal Father in nature, in character, and in purpose—the only being that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God. “By him were all things created, that are in heaven,... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers.” Colossians 1:16.The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all created beings depended on their accord with its principles of righteousness. God takes no pleasure in forced allegiance, and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service.Colossians 1:16-17
Education
Chapter 14—Science and the Bible
Ed 132.1
The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, declares of Christ that “all things have been created through Him, and unto Him; and He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16, 17, R.V., margin. The hand that sustains the worlds in space, the hand that holds in their orderly arrangement and tireless activity all things throughout the universe of God, is the hand that was nailed to the cross for us.Colossians 1:16-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 107, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 107, 1897, par. 21
“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible or invisible, whether they be thrones or principalities or powers; all things were created by him, and for him. And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. ... For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell.” [Colossians 1:16, 17, 19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 266, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 266, 1903, par. 20
“The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hands.” [John 3:35.] “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell.” [Colossians 1:19.] “God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” [Philippians 2:9-11.] “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him, and for Him; and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” [Colossians 1:16, 17.]Colossians 1:16-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 124, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 1
“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by him and for him; and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace through the blood of the cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.” [Colossians 1:16-20.]Colossians 1:17
The Faith I Live By
All Nature Upheld by God, January 22
FLB 28.1
And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. Colossians 1:17.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Great Center, November 9
JNN 330.1
And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.—Colossians 1:17Colossians 1:17-27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 114, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 114, 1898, par. 6
“If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven, ... even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but which is now made manifest in his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” [Colossians 1:17-23, 26, 27.]Colossians 1:18
Lift Him Up
The Head of the Church, October 1
LHU 288.1
He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the first born from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18.From the Heart
A Perfected Church, November 26
FH 342.1
And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18.Colossians 1:19
Education
Chapter 4—Relation of Education to Redemption
Ed 30.2
In the highest sense the work of education and the work of redemption are one, for in education, as in redemption, “other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” “It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Him should all the fullness dwell.” 1 Corinthians 3:11; Colossians 1:19, R.V.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 96, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 96, 1904, par. 1
Christ’s words and acts while He was on this earth were as revelation of divine truth. They gave evidence that He had come direct from the most excellent glory; but the glory itself was concealed. His actions spoke louder than words, inspiring faith in hearts that had been dead in trespasses and sins. It was His work to reveal the Father. And in the doing of this work He went steadily forward, constantly performing deeds of mercy and compassion, His energy never abating, never flagging. “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell.” [Colossians 1:19.]God’s Amazing Grace
Exile From Heaven’s Throne, June 1
AG 160.2
In order to fully realize the value of salvation, it is necessary to understand what it cost. In consequence of limited ideas of the sufferings of Christ, many place a low estimate upon the great work of the atonement. The glorious plan of man’s salvation was brought about through the infinite love of God the Father. In this divine plan is seen the most marvelous manifestation of the love of God to the fallen race. Such love as is manifested in the gift of God’s beloved Son amazed the holy angels. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). This Saviour was the brightness of His Father’s glory and the express image of His person. He possessed divine majesty, perfection, and excellence. He was equal with God. “It pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell” (Colossians 1:19)....God’s Amazing Grace
Giving and Receiving, July 24
AG 213.3
The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draft, and as you impart you will receive in richer and more abundant measure. Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love. The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” ... To Jesus, who emptied Himself for the salvation of lost humanity, the Holy Spirit was given without measure. So it will be given to every follower of Christ when the whole heart is surrendered for His indwelling. Our Lord Himself has given the command, “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18), and this command is also a promise of its fulfillment. It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fullness dwell,” and “in him ye are made full” (Colossians 1:19, R.V.; 2:10, R.V.).66Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 20, 21.Our Father Cares
Filled With His Righteousness, March 10
OFC 81.6
The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” Romans 5:9, 10.... It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fulness dwell,” and “in him ye are made full.” Colossians 1:19, R.V.; 2:10, R.V.The Faith I Live By
Filled With His Righteousness, April 13
FLB 109.6
The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” Romans 5:9, 10.... It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fulness dwell,” and “in him ye are made full.” Colossians 1:19, R.V.; 2:10, R.V.50Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 18-21.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”—Matthew 5:6.
MB 20.3
“Give, and it shall be given unto you” (Luke 6:38); for the word of God is “a fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams of Lebanon” (Song of Solomon 4:15). The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draft, and as you impart you will receive in richer and more abundant measure. Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love. The continual cry of the heart is, “More of Thee,” and ever the Spirit’s answer is, “Much more.” Romans 5:9, 10. For our God delights to do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20. To Jesus, who emptied Himself for the salvation of lost humanity, the Holy Spirit was given without measure. So it will be given to every follower of Christ when the whole heart is surrendered for His indwelling. Our Lord Himself has given the command, “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18), and this command is also a promise of its fulfillment. It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fullness dwell,” and “in Him ye are made full.” Colossians 1:19 , R.V.; 2:10, R.V.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Sufferings of Christ
1TT 219.1
In order to fully realize the value of salvation, it is necessary to understand what it cost. In consequence of limited ideas of the sufferings of Christ, many place a low estimate upon the great work of the atonement. The glorious plan of man’s salvation was brought about through the infinite love of God the Father. In this divine plan is seen the most marvelous manifestation of the love of God to the fallen race. Such love as is manifested in the gift of God’s beloved Son amazed the holy angels. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. This Saviour was the brightness of His Father’s glory and the express image of His person. He possessed divine majesty, perfection, and excellence. He was equal with God. “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell.” Colossians 1:19. “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:6-8.Colossians 1:19-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 21, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 21, 1890, par. 14
In the sacrifice of Christ for our world, His mediation is made visible. This is the evidence of things unseen and makes faith the gift of God. “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace by the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven.” [Colossians 1:19, 20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 255, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, par. 29
It is the knowledge of God which inspires the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. As this knowledge is received, the mind is drawn out to God in holy desire. The transformation of human character is the great work which God designed to accomplish by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son. He purposed that thus, by the blood of Christ, fallen human beings should be brought nigh to Him. “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell; having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself.” [Colossians 1:19, 20.] By those who seek God in truth, Christ crucified is discerned to be the power of God and the wisdom of God. Through the Word, by the gospel of His Son, God wins the hearts of rebels, who, by yielding to the sophistry of Satan, have become separated from heaven. Through Christ He obtains access to the hearts of those who are out of the way and brings them back to their original faith, to see the goodness and love of God. He brings them nigh, that through His Word they may become acquainted with the Son of God and with the Father. The life of Christ is seen as it is—full of goodness, mercy, and love.Colossians 1:19-29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 127, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 27
“For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; and, having made peace by the blood of the cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometimes alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight; if ye continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God, which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints, to whom God would make known what is the riches of this glory among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:19-29.]Colossians 1:21-22
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Requiring Obedience
CT 152.2
The teacher should bring true self-respect into all that he does. He should not allow himself to be quick-tempered. He should not punish harshly children that are in need of reform. Let him understand that self must be kept in subjection. He should never forget that over him is a divine Teacher, whose pupil he is, and under whose control he is ever to be. As the teacher humbles the heart before God, it will be softened and subdued by the thought of his own shortcomings. He will realize something of the meaning of the words, “You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in His sight.” Colossians 1:21, 22.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 2, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 2, 1895, par. 14
But while we are saved through grace, the apostle presents the part that we are to act. He says, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, (lest you become an influence to lead others astray) for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] In these Scriptures is presented the co-working of God with man and man with God. How important it is that the work shall go forward harmoniously, so that, as a result, the perfection of Christian character may be obtained through the union of the human and the divine. Where this co-operation is found, these words are appropriate, “And you that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled,” that He may “present you holy, and unblamable, and unreprovable in his sight.” [Colossians 1:21, 22.] Let every soul remember that the Christian armor cannot be laid aside for one moment. We are called upon to keep up the warfare, to resist Satan, to “watch and pray.” [Mark 13:33.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 67, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, par. 7
Teachers are not to allow themselves to be quick-tempered. They should not manifest temper. They should not punish harshly the children that are in need of reform. Let the teacher first know and understand that self must be kept in subjection. Think of the boundless love Christ has bestowed on human beings. Never forget that over you there is a divine Teacher, whose subject you are, and under whose control you are ever to be. Humble the heart before God. It will be softened and subdued by the thought of the riches God has bestowed on His children. You will realize something of the meaning of the words, “You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.” [Colossians 1:21, 22.]Colossians 1:21-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 141, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 141, 1899, par. 9
What is the work which the Lord requires of us? The apostle Paul answers this question: “You that were sometime alienated and enemies in your minds by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in his sight: if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard. ... Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known the riches of this glory among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:21-23, 26-28.] This work God calls on us to do.Colossians 1:21-29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 384, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, par. 12
All the profession of faith will not save one soul unless he continues in the faith. Matthew 10:16, 17. We have had demonstrated how much confidence can be placed in men, even men who have occupied positions of trust, if they are not under the sanctification of the Spirit of God. Verse 18. These chapters we had better consider. The Lord has signified He will be with us as long as we will be with Him. Colossians 1:21, 23-29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 67, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 67, 1898, par. 32
And how shall the work be carried forward? The apostle Paul says, “You, who were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in his sight: if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel which ye have heard, and which was preached unto every creature under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church whereof I am made a minister according to the dispensation of God which is given me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid for ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:21-29.]Colossians 1:23
Maranatha
Hastening Our Lord’s Return, January 11
Mar 19.2
In the prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction Christ said, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” This prophecy will again be fulfilled. The abounding iniquity of that day finds its counterpart in this generation. So with the prediction in regard to the preaching of the gospel. Before the fall of Jerusalem, Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, declared that the gospel was preached to “every creature which is under heaven.” Colossians 1:23. So now, before the coming of the Son of man, the everlasting gospel is to be preached “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” Revelation 14:6, 14. God “hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world.” Acts 17:31. Christ tells us when that day shall be ushered in. He does not say that all the world will be converted, but that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God. 2 Peter 3:12, margin. Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in power and great glory.14The Desire of Ages, 633, 634.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 69—On the Mount of Olives
DA 633.3
In the prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction Christ said, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” This prophecy will again be fulfilled. The abounding iniquity of that day finds its counterpart in this generation. So with the prediction in regard to the preaching of the gospel. Before the fall of Jerusalem, Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, declared that the gospel was preached to “every creature which is under heaven.” Colossians 1:23. So now, before the coming of the Son of man, the everlasting gospel is to be preached “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” Revelation 14:6, 14. God “hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world.” Acts 17:31. Christ tells us when that day shall be ushered in. He does not say that all the world will be converted, but that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God. 2 Peter 3:12, margin. Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in power and great glory.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 69—Signs of the Second Coming of Christ
HLv 426.1
Christ said, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Before the fall of Jerusalem, Paul declared that the gospel was preached to “every creature which is under heaven.” Colossians 1:23. So now, the everlasting gospel is to be preached “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” Revelation 14:6. Christ does not say that all the world will be converted, but that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God. See 2 Peter 3:12. Had the church done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and Jesus would have come.Homeward Bound
The Gospel to the World, February 21
HB 68.4
In the prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction Christ said, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” This prophecy will again be fulfilled. The abounding iniquity of that day finds its counterpart in this generation. So with the prediction in regard to the preaching of the gospel. Before the fall of Jerusalem, Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, declared that the gospel was preached to “every creature which is under heaven.” (Colossians 1:23.) So now, before the coming of the Son of man, the everlasting gospel is to be preached “to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” (Revelation 14:6, 14.) God “hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world.” (Acts 17:31.) Christ tells us when that day shall be ushered in. He does not say that all the world will be converted, but that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God. (2 Peter 3:12, margin.) Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in power and great glory. . . .Colossians 1:24
Christ’s Object Lessons
The Lost Sheep
COL 191.1
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 3:1. And Christ says, “As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (John 17:18)—to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, ... for His body’s sake, which is the church.” Colossians 1:24. Every soul whom Christ has rescued is called to work in His name for the saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel. Is it not neglected today by those who profess to be Christ’s followers?The General Conference Bulletin
December 1, 1895
GCB December 1, 1895, par. 19
“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us.” “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” And Jesus says, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world,”—to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, ...for his body’s sake, which is the church.” 1 John 3:1; John 3:16; 17:18; Colossians 1:24. To every soul whom Christ has rescued from the pit of sin, be he old or young, parent or child, he has committed a trust to work in his name for the saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel, even by the shepherds of the flock. Is it not neglected today among those who profess to be followers of Christ?Radiant Religion
Because of My Love for His Church, April 3
RRe 95.1
Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for His body’s sake, which is the church. Colossians 1:24.Colossians 1:24-29
Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1185—The European Missionary Council
15MR 347.1
Brother D. T. Bourdeau spoke in the early morning meeting. In the afternoon I spoke to the people from Colossians 1:24-29. I felt great weakness before going into the desk. I pleaded most earnestly with God in prayer to help me and to bless the people in a special manner. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me and upon the people. I was followed by three interpreters, German, French, and Danish, but this did not embarrass me in the least. The heavenly angels were in our midst. I was blessed in speaking, the people blessed in hearing. I cannot see but that my message is having a better impression than on the minds of my American brethren and sisters.15MR 361.3
I warn my brethren, Keep your partition walls down. In all your efforts as God’s workmen, “preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus” (Colossians 1:28). This can be done only by striving according to His workings which worketh in you mightily. God knows just how to meet the peculiarities of the different nationalities. Do not, my brethren, interpose yourselves between the work and God, for God knows better than you how to reach these men and women, and He will clothe His message to this people with that power which will reach their hearts and unite them with us in warning the world by giving the trumpet a certain sound. Men are not infallible, and we are not to bend to men’s fallibility and human judgment.Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]
Excerpts from the E. G. White Diary
2MR 118.1
Colossians 1:24-29. The Lord gave me freedom and power in addressing the people. There is indeed a work to be done for them, and if the Lord will use me as an instrument to arouse them from the irreligious state they are in I will praise His holy name. I presented before them the great need of those who teach in word and in doctrine to take heed to themselves to be very circumspect in their course of action, and in word and example seek to elevate the people to correct views and correct practices by their own habits and customs, and to be sure that in no way they belittle the requirements of God—especially the fourth commandment, which enjoins the observance of the Sabbath.The Voice in Speech and Song
God’s Modern Messenger
VSS 399.2
Sermon onColossians 1:24-29—Brother D. T. Bourdeau spoke in the early morning meeting. In the afternoon I spoke to the people from Colossians 1:24-29. I felt great weakness before going into the desk. I pleaded most earnestly with God in prayer to help me and to bless the people in a special manner. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me and upon the people. I was followed by three interpreters—German, French, and Danish—but this did not embarrass me in the least. The heavenly angels were in our midst. I was blessed in speaking, the people blessed in hearing. I cannot see but that my message is having a better impression than on the minds of my American brethren and sisters.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 27, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 27, 1885, par. 9
Colossians 1:24-29. The Lord gave me freedom and power in addressing the people. There is indeed a work to be done for them; and if the Lord will use me as an instrument to arouse them from the irreligious state they are in, I will praise His holy name. I presented before them the great need of those who teach in word and in doctrine to take heed to themselves to be very circumspect in their course of action and in word and example seek to elevate the people to correct views and correct practices by their own habits and customs and to be sure that in no way they belittle the requirements of God—especially the fourth commandment, which enjoins the observance of the Sabbath.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 23, 1885
4LtMs, Lt 23, 1885, par. 7
Brother D. T. Bourdeau spoke in the early morning meeting. In the afternoon I spoke to the people from Colossians 1:24-29. I felt great weakness before going into the desk. I pleaded most earnestly with God in prayer to help me and to bless the people in a special manner. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me and upon the people. I was followed by three interpreters: German, French, and Danish, but this did not embarrass me in the least. The heavenly angels were in our midst. I was blessed in speaking, the people blessed in hearing. I cannot see but that my message is having a better impression than on the minds of my American brethren and sisters.4LtMs, Lt 23, 1885, par. 40
I warn my brethren, Keep your partition walls down. In all your efforts as God’s workmen, “preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 1:28. This can only be done by striving according to His working, which worketh in you mightily. God knows just how to meet the peculiarities of the different nationalities. Do not, my brethren, interpose yourselves between the work and God, for God knows better than you how to reach these men and women, and He will clothe His message to this people with that power which will reach their hearts and unite them with us in warning the world by giving the trumpet a certain sound. Men are not infallible, and we are not to bend to men’s fallibility and human judgment.Colossians 1:25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 7, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 7, 1891, par. 51
The meaning of the words, “I am made a minister,” is too little comprehended. [Colossians 1:25.] Those who preach the Word of life to others should be weighted with the Spirit of Christ, as was Paul. If the minister goes to his work light-loaded, if he carries no burden for the people, he shows that he has mistaken his calling. He has not that spirit of intercession and consecration to God that would enable him to receive light from God. Those who work for God must feed upon Christ, for spiritually they are built up from what they eat. If Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, they have wisdom from God, not only to eat of Christ, but to feed the flock of God in due season, giving to every man his portion. By such, the flock of God will be fed from the Word of God, which is Spirit and Life.Colossians 1:25-29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 6, 1883
4LtMs, Lt 6, 1883, par. 14
Such a showing in your conference testifies that you are not laboring as the apostle Paul labored: “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Does the Word leave this mark in us? If not, then we do not bear the divine credentials. “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man, in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 1:25-28.4LtMs, Lt 6, 1883, par. 15
Here is something that is of more importance than every earthly consideration. Men are to be educated; men are to be taught in all wisdom. Have these ministers that connection with God, that separation from the world and worldly ambition and worldly lust? Have they that close walk with their God that by faith they can give the right mold to the ones for whom they labor? “Whereunto,” says Paul, “I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Verse 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 67, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 67, 1895, par. 2
The work of the minister is not finished when he leaves the pulpit. I have had presented before me the wrong of criticizing ministers, and have also had presented before me the necessity of thoroughness in dealing with those who need instruction both in our churches and schools. The duty of the gospel minister is plainly revealed in the Word of God. “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:25-28.]10LtMs, Ms 67, 1895, par. 3
The qualifications of a minister should be just what Paul represents it to be, and were they thus qualified, we should see efficiency and fullness of labor, and every man presented perfect in Christ Jesus. “Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Verse 29.] [The] minister should be free from every unnecessary temporal perplexity, in order that he might give himself up to that culture that is essential for him who is handling sacred things.10LtMs, Ms 67, 1895, par. 11
He who accepts the position of being a mouthpiece for God should consider it highly essential that he present the truth with all the grace and intelligence that he can acquire through discipline of the mind, and in such a manner that the truth shall loose nothing by his presentation. Let no one consider it a little thing to speak in a thick voice and clumsy manner, or to pitch the voice in a high unnatural key, and talk loud and long, and thus abuse the organs of speech given of God, and make himself unacceptable to the people. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] Let every man have Christ abiding in him, “the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, ... in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:27, 28.]The Review and Herald
June 4, 1889
RH June 4, 1889, par. 1
Text: “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:25-29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 7, 1868
1LtMs, Ms 7, 1868, par. 12
In order to accomplish the work God requires of ministers, they need to be qualified for the position. The Apostle Paul, writing to the Colossians, in speaking of his ministry, says: “Whereof I am made a minister according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the Word of God, even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints, to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you the hope of glory. Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 16a, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 16a, 1885, par. 89
I spoke from Colossians [1?]:25-29. The Lord blessed me in speaking and the people in hearing. The power of God rested upon me and upon the people. I was enabled to speak without embarrassment while two interpreters followed me in French and German, and Brother Oyen gave it in Danish to his reporter.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 29, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 38
Spoke from Colossians 1:25-29. I felt deeply the importance of this subject, and the Lord helped me to speak very plainly in love to my brethren. These words were reported. Good testimonies were borne by D. T. Bourdeau, Wilbur Whitney, and several others. D. T. Bourdeau spoke decidedly to the point.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 48, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 48, 1888, par. 7
“I am made a minister (of the church), according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29.]5LtMs, Lt 48, 1888, par. 11
Heretofore you have aimed to please your hearers, when at all times and in all places you should have had an eye single to the glory of God. Faithful warnings, reproofs, and corrections are often required in the formation of a church that every man may be “perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Verse 28.] When those for whom you labor see that you will not sanction a wrong act, that you will not do imperfect work for the Master, it will inspire them with confidence in you as a faithful sentinel of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 13, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 72
I read in the first chapter of Colossians, beginning at the twenty-fifth verse, “Wherefore I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Now, Gentiles represent the world. What is it that we are to do? We are to “make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the world, which is Christ in you the hope of glory, whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Verses 25-29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 9, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 28
The precious, saving truth has been buried under a mass of words. In every discourse let it stand out clear and prominent, that there may be no mistaking what saith the Lord. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.” [Verse 15.] “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” [1 Thessalonians 2:4.] “Sanctify the Lord of Hosts Himself; let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.] See Colossians 1:25-29; Acts 20:19-21, 26, 27.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 78, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 78, 1893, par. 7
The apostle Paul has presented before us the nature of the work that was manifested in him through the grace of Christ. See Colossians 1:25-29. He who really possess the grace that is of heavenly origin, which alone is of value, will show himself a man of discretion, a Christian gentleman, kind and sympathetic. No man who has the true ideal of a perfect character in the sight of God will fail to manifest the sympathy and tenderness of Christ.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Trust in God
GW92 422.3
Paul thus speaks of the ministry of the new covenant: “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29.] What a responsibility is this! A work is here brought to view that is more laborious than merely preaching the word; it is to represent Christ in our character, to be living epistles, known and read of all men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 63, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 41
Encourage the human agent to look to and seek for wisdom from God in most earnest prayer, then he will learn as no human voice or human counsel can teach him the way of the Lord. He will see [how] the transgression of the law caused the price of the blood of the Son of the infinite God to redeem him. He will hate the sins that wounded Jesus. He will preserve a contrite heart as he views Jesus as a compassionate tender High Priest. Please read Ephesians the second and third chapters. Here is a lesson for us all to study. Philippians 2:1-16; Colossians 1:25-29; Hebrews 2:17, 18. This whole chapter is of great importance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 148, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 148, 1897, par. 2
“Whereof I am made a minister,” writes Paul of the gospel, “according to the dispensation of God, which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the mastery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29.] A solemn responsibility tests upon the men who teach God’s Word. They are not to try to work the Holy Spirit; they are themselves to be worked by the Holy Spirit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 107, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 107, 1898, par. 1
“Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God: even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29.]13LtMs, Ms 107, 1898, par. 19
The man who accepts the position of being mouthpiece for God should consider it highly essential that he present the truth with all the grace and intelligence he can, that the truth may lose nothing in his presentation of it to the people. Those who consider it a little thing to speak with an imperfect utterance dishonor God. God is not glorified when His servants, in holding forth the Word of life, pitch their voices to a high key, and talk in loud, unnatural tones. By so doing they abuse the organs of speech. God enjoins us, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] “For we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 48a, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 48a, 1900, par. 16
Read (Colossians 1:25-29), chapter 2:12-17. That which ye sow ye shall also reap. It becomes us to know what kind of a crop we are sowing, whether tares or wheat. Do not pervert the true moral standard of the gospel. It is only in the deepest sense of our ruin that we learn to love Christ sincerely, and cherish proper gratitude to Him who gave His life for us. There is danger, decided danger to any soul, to pursue a wrong course and harm the flock of God either by precept or example. Those who live the more closely to the example given in the life of Christ are those who walk in greatest humility and humbleness of mind. O what lessons yourself and others will have to learn!Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Paul, The Apostle to the Gentiles
GW 59.3
Paul never forgot the responsibility resting on him as a minister of Christ; or that if souls were lost through unfaithfulness on his part, God would hold him accountable. “I take you to record this day,” he declared, “that I am pure from the blood of all men.” [Acts 20:26.] “Whereof I am made a minister,” he said of the gospel, “according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:25-29]GW 61.2
What the church needs in these days of peril, is an army of workers who, like Paul, have educated themselves for usefulness, who have a deep experience in the things of God, and who are filled with earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacrificing men are needed; men who are brave and true; men in whose hearts Christ is formed, “the hope of glory,” [Colossians 1:27.] and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] For the want of such workers the cause of God languishes, and fatal errors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 933—The Christian Life
12MR 50.1
[Romans 5:1-6; Colossians 1:25-29, quoted.] A solemn responsibility rests upon the men who teach God’s Word. They are not to try to work the Holy Spirit; they are themselves to be worked by the Holy Spirit.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 34—A Consecrated Ministry
AA 368.2
Paul never forgot the responsibility resting on him as a minister of Christ, or that if souls were lost through unfaithfulness on his part, God would hold him accountable. “Whereof I am made a minister,” he declared of the gospel, “according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:25-29.Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
The Ministry
1SAT 292.1
[Colossians 1:25-29, quoted.]1SAT 298.3
The man who accepts the position of being [a] mouthpiece for God should consider it highly essential that he present the truth with all the grace and intelligence he can, that the truth may lose nothing in his presentation of it to the people. Those who consider it a little thing to speak with an imperfect utterance, dishonor God. God is not glorified when His servants, in holding forth the word of life pitch their voices to a high key, and talk in loud, unnatural tones. By so doing they abuse the organs of speech. God enjoins us, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” [Matthew 5:48]. “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus” [Colossians 1:28].Colossians 1:26
Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1017—Treasure Hid in a Field
13MR 132.2
How few realize that the Bible is the great instrument of God’s government through probationary time. This Word is the direct unveiling of truth. It is spoken of as “the mystery which hath been hid from ages” [Colossians 1:26]. We need a far greater knowledge of the Word of God than we now have. A man may go through every grade for acquiring scholastic knowledge; he may devote all his capabilities to book learning; but unless he has the knowledge of God, unless he understands and practices the laws which govern his being, he will destroy himself by erroneous habits, by using tobacco, tea, coffee, and strong drink. Thus he thinks to brace himself up, but instead he loses his power of self-appreciation. He uses his brain too much. He loses his self-control. He cannot reason acutely upon the matters that concern him most. He is reckless and irrational in his treatment of his body.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 34—The Word Made Flesh
1SM 246.3
The doctrine of the incarnation of Christ in human flesh is a mystery, “even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations” (Colossians 1:26). It is the great and profound mystery of godliness. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Christ took upon Himself human nature, a nature inferior to His heavenly nature. Nothing so shows the wonderful condescension of God as this. He “so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16). John presents this wonderful subject with such simplicity that all may grasp the ideas set forth, and be enlightened.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 48, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 48, 1898, par. 15
How few realize that the Bible is the great instrument of God’s government through probationary time. This Word is the direct unveiling of truth. It is spoken of as “the mystery which has been hidden for ages.” [Colossians 1:26.] We need a far greater knowledge of the Word of God than we now have. A man may go through every grade for acquiring scholastic knowledge. He may devote all his capabilities to book learning; but unless he has the knowledge of God, unless he understands and practices the laws which govern his being, he will destroy himself by erroneous habits, by using tobacco, tea, coffee, and strong drink. Thus he thinks to brace himself up, but instead, he loses his power of self-appreciation. He uses his brain too much. He loses his self-control. He cannot reason acutely upon the matters that concern him most. He is reckless and irrational in his treatment of his body.Colossians 1:26-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 121, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 121, 1899, par. 39
Writing to the Colossians, Paul speaks of “the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:26-28.] Holiness to the Lord is required in all who come nigh God in service. Self-exaltation is to find no place in the heart. Devotion to self cannot exist in the life that is ruled by Christ. By selfishness Christ is dishonored, and He can never bless those whom it controls.Colossians 1:27
A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 16—Careers
CSA 67.3
In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found—witnessing, and ever as we witness learning anew “the riches of the glory of this mystery;” “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27. 102Education, 309.My Life Today
Christ in Me the Hope of Glory, October 24
ML 301.1
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27.Our Father Cares
Superficial Knowledge Not Enough, May 1
OFC 133.1
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27.Our High Calling
A Strong Fortress of Truth, August 29
OHC 247.1
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27.Sons and Daughters of God
Christ in You the Hope of Glory, October 30
SD 310.1
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27.That I May Know Him
Superficial Knowledge Not Enough, January 4
TMK 10.1
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27.That I May Know Him
A Heavenly Partnership, April 27
TMK 123.2
All heaven enters into copartnership with those who come to Christ for eternal life, submitting themselves to Him as those who have made a surrender of all to God. God requires His servants to stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel, striving in His power to keep the principles of truth pure and uncorrupted. They must never step aside from the path of self-denial and humility which every true Christian must travel. As they thus cooperate with God, Christ is formed within, “the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). Clad in His meekness and lowliness they find their highest joy in doing His service. Earthly ambition gives way to a desire to serve the Master.To Be Like Jesus
Bible Holiness Is Our Great Need, July 14
BLJ 208.1
To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27, NKJV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 13, 1892, par. 12
The privileges, the blessings, of the child of God are represented by the apostle in the following language: “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” [Colossians 1:27.] When we realize that our hope of glory is Christ, that we are complete in Him, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. The apostle further says that he ceased not to pray, “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in heavenly places.” [Ephesians 1:17-20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 20, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 20, 1893, par. 13
May the Lord pour upon us the spirit of true labor, to seek and to save that which is lost. Let us seek power from God. Let us work with determined effort. We are to work in Christ’s lines. In the recovering of lost, perishing souls, it is not man that effects the work of saving souls, it is God who labors with him. God works and man works. “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] We must work in different ways and devise different methods, and let God work in us to the revealing of truth and Himself as the sin pardoning Saviour. Again I urge [that] the sanctified qualification of every soul be brought into working order. Let your light shine, let truth triumph. We must awake. We must pray. We must never rest until we are imbued with the Spirit of God. Christ must be formed within, “the hope of glory.” [Colossians 1:27.] It is time to awake out of sleep and have our lamps trimmed and burning. May God give us wisdom to work intelligently.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 68, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 68, 1896, par. 14
If Christ were formed within, “the hope of glory,” we would seek with all our power to bring solid timbers into our character-building. [Colossians 1:27.] If we were clad in the garments of Christ’s righteousness, clad in meekness and lowliness, we would find our highest joy in talking about Christ. And daily we would enjoy the sense of His converting power upon our souls. No time would be devoted to talking of the defects of others, no inclination would be felt to stir up strife. Instead, we would dwell upon the best characteristics of those for whom Christ has died.Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
Christ’s Office Magnified
CET 246.1
The incarnation of Jesus Christ, the divine son of God, “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” is the great theme of the gospel. “In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him.” Colossians 1:27; 2:9, 10. The acceptance or rejection of this vital truth is one of the divinely appointed tests of one who claims to have the gift of prophecy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 151, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, par. 5
My brethren and sisters, I present before you Christ, who is to be to us an abiding Presence. “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” will keep the soul fresh and sweet. [Colossians 1:27.] Christ was God’s gift to a perishing world. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] Let everyone be assured that it is by receiving this life-saving Gift that we secure eternal life. This is our life-insurance policy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 68, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 68, 1903, par. 18
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth. ... And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [Verses 17, 19.] Those who cease to follow worldly practices, and choose to stand in the world as Christ’s followers, will understand the mystery of godliness—Christ within, “the hope of glory.” [Colossians 1:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 139, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 43
Let all our assemblies be stirred by the old heart-searching truths of the gospel. These truths will bring conviction to souls. Say to those assembled, “When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth? Be warned, be entreated to arise from lethargy, and remove this self-complacent spirit.” [See Luke 18:8.] When true faith is exercised, the Spirit of God will mold and fashion the soul that it may become a pure and holy place, a dwelling place for God. When Christ is “formed within, the hope of glory,” a new life is imparted. [Colossians 1:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 174, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 174, 1905, par. 11
I have come to the narrative in our history when two buildings are now, through much labor, prepared to begin their work in Los Angeles and in Paradise Valley. These places need the very best kind of work done in them, and they can only be a success as their dependence is placed in the Lord God of Israel. We are now to feel that to us are committed the oracles of God, and we must make it our very first work to adorn the doctrine we claim to believe, with a well-ordered life and godly conversation. Self, yes, the self of every soul must no longer strive for the mastery. Christ’s character in us must appear as the one altogether perfect in every respect, and His children are to grow up into Christ their living Head. His mind must be revealed through the mind and behaviour of His witnesses. Self must be exercised in good works after the example given in the life of Christ. There is to be no striving for the mastery. Oh, how my mind is drawn out and exercised in regard to the work to be done! And if self will be hid with Christ in God, then all the pettishness of self will die, and Christ, with all the excellencies of His character, will be formed within, “the hope of glory.” [Colossians 1:27.] Holy angels in heaven are gazing with pitiful eyes upon the company of workers struggling among themselves to do something, but not laying hold of the One who declared in His resurrected body, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.]Education
Chapter 18—Mysteries of the Bible
Ed 171.4
This experience is the highest evidence of the divine authorship of the Bible. We receive God’s word as food for the soul, through the same evidence by which we receive bread as food for the body. Bread supplies the need of our nature; we know by experience that it produces blood and bone and brain. Apply the same test to the Bible; when its principles have actually become the elements of character, what has been the result? what changes have been made in the life? “Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. In its power, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have been transformed into the image of God. This change is itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the word. We cannot understand it; we can only believe, as declared by the Scriptures, it is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.Education
Chapter 35—The School of the Hereafter
Ed 309.1
In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found—witnessing, and ever as we witness learning anew “the riches of the glory of this mystery;” “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.God’s Amazing Grace
To Break Bad Habits, April 9
AG 107.2
Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have become transformed into the image of God. This change is in itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the Word. We cannot understand it; we can only believe, as declared by the Scriptures, it is “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27)....God’s Amazing Grace
Eden Life Renewed, December 20
AG 362.7
In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found—witnessing, and ever as we witness learning anew “the riches of the glory of this mystery;” “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).37Education, 307-309.Heaven
Chapter 16—Heaven Is a School
Hvn 154.3
In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found—witnessing, and ever as we witness learning anew “the riches of the glory of this mystery;” “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.In Heavenly Places
The Christian’s All in All, February 28
HP 65.6
The privileges, the blessings, of the child of God are represented by the apostle in the following language: “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). When we realize that our hope of glory is Christ, that we are complete in Him, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.43Manuscript 13, 1892.Colossians 1:27-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 41, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 41, 1899, par. 17
To us “God would make known what is the riches of the glory of his mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory, whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:27, 28.] “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but now are the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly Beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your conversation honest among the Gentiles, that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” [1 Peter 2:9-12.] “Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor.” [Ephesians 5:1, 2.]Colossians 1:27-29
Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 61—Christ the Center of the Message
1SM 386.1
When God’s people are one in the unity of the Spirit, all of Phariseeism, all of self-righteousness, which was the sin of the Jewish nation, will be expelled from all hearts. The mold of Christ will be upon each individual member of His body, and His people will be new bottles into which He can pour His new wine, and the new wine will not break the bottles. God will make known the mystery which hath been hidden for ages. He will make known what are the “riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27) [verses 28, 29 also quoted].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 97, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 97, 1893, par. 2
“Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” “Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 4:12; 1:27-29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 84, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 84, 1894, par. 9
When the church of God are one in the unity of the Spirit, all of Pharisaism, all of self-righteousness, which was the sin of the Jewish nation, will be expelled from all hearts. The mold of Christ will be upon each individual member of His body, and His people will be new bottles into which He can pour His new wine, and the new wine will not break the bottles. God will make known the mystery which hath been hidden for ages. He will make known what are the “riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:27-29.]Colossians 1:28
Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Thoroughness
GW 369.2
The minister has no sanction for confining his labors to the pulpit, leaving his hearers unhelped by personal effort. He should seek to understand the nature of the difficulties in the minds of the people. He should talk and pray with those who are interested, giving them wise instruction, to the end that he “may present every man perfect in Christ.” [Colossians 1:28.] His Bible teaching should have a directness and force that will send conviction home to the conscience. The people know so little of the Bible that practical, definite lessons should be given concerning the nature of sin and its remedy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 10, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 10, 1888, par. 2
The plans which have been suggested by our brother, we believe to be sound, and if we will practice something in this line in the several churches, we shall find that those churches which carry out a system of labor will be living churches, for a working church is a living church. But here comes in the difficulty. There needs to be ability to educate properly, to teach how the different members shall have their part in the work. Everyone who is set as a leader in the church, or a minister who has charge in the churches, should consider this a part of his work. Now, how is it possible for them to neglect this part of the work and yet to be able to fulfill the direction that is given in the Bible by Paul to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus”? [Colossians 1:28.] This is the very work that is devolving on the teacher. It is to try to educate, educate, educate, by precept and example; and if we can get a church in working order and if we can teach them how to work in this very line, you will find that these workers will have a special interest.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 43, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 43, 1894, par. 10
There is need now of the most efficient kind of labor to be done from house to house. The popular ministers will not let our work go forward and they remain silent. The wisdom of God is needed now. “Lo, I send ye forth,” said Christ, “as lambs among wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” [Luke 10:3; Matthew 10:16.] We want to be able to say as did Paul, “Whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:28.] God requires that His stewards be found faithful. We want to meet many precious souls in the kingdom, presenting them to Christ as trophies of the power of the Saviour’s love. In much love to you and yours.Colossians 1:28-29
Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Humility and Faithfulness in Laborers
GW92 449.1
The apostle Paul felt the importance of faithfulness. He says of his own ministry in Christ, “whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.] And he exhorts Timothy, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] This is in accordance with the word which through the prophet Isaiah the Lord has spoken to the watchmen on the walls of Zion: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 76, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 76, 1900, par. 12
The qualifications of a minister are represented by Paul in Colossians 1:28, 29. The gospel minister should possess such efficiency, such fullness of labor, that “he may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” “Whereunto,” says Paul, “I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” The minister should have every freedom essential from unnecessary temporal perplexities. He should preserve physical health by exercising his muscles as well as his brain. Earnest self-culture is essential in the minister of the gospel, for he is handling sacred things. His dress should be in accordance with his work, neat and comely, but not rich and extravagant.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2
Chapter 76—Manners and Dress of Ministers
2T 609.4
“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom,” not as novices, not in ignorance, “that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:28, 29. It is the work of God, the grace from God, realized and felt, gracing the life and actions, which is to make a sensible impression upon those that hear.The Voice in Speech and Song
Chapter 60—Practical Godliness
VSS 346.3
We are to present Christ to the people, following the words of the apostle, where he says, “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily” [Colossians 1:28, 29]. Was it essential for Paul to have this experience? Read carefully his words, and see if it is safe for any of the ministers of Christ to shape their life according to any lower standard of godliness.—Letter 3, 1892.The Review and Herald
May 30, 1871
RH May 30, 1871, par. 4
“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom,” not novices, not in ignorance, “that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:28, 29. It is the work of God, the grace from God, that is to be realized and felt, that is to grace the life and actions, which is to make a sensible impression upon those that hear.From Trials to Triumph
The Peril of Side Businesses
TT 193.3
Paul never forgot that if souls were lost through unfaithfulness on his part, God would hold him accountable. Christ “we proclaim, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man mature [perfect, KJV] in Christ. For this I toil, striving with all the energy which He mightily inspires within me.” Colossians 1:28, 29, RSV.Testimony for the Church — No. 20
Address to Ministers
T20 50.3
“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom,” not novices, not in ignorance, “that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:28, 29. It is the work of God, the grace from God, that is to be realized and felt, that is to grace the life and actions, which is to make a sensible impression upon those that hear.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 3, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 3, 1885, par. 23
We stand on the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecy is fast fulfilling. A new life is descending from on high and taking possession of God’s people. Some souls will have to advance fast or they will have to be left far behind in darkness. The judgment is hastening. The Word of God is rebuking, warning, and entreating men to reach the Bible standard, but Satan has brought about such a condition of things in our churches that it will be most difficult to bring them to their senses and arouse them to see their God-given responsibilities. If they will with real contrition of heart confess their sins, they may, through watchfulness and prayer, come off conquerors. But they must look beyond earthly gain, away from worldly advantages, to the great beyond. They must hesitate at no sacrifice for Christ’s sake, who has paid for them the penalty of the law transgressed. We are now living in the solemn period of the antitypical day of atonement. In the type, the sins of the people were, on the atonement day, to be called to mind and repented of. It was a time of humiliation and affliction of soul. The greatest care was enjoined, that every part of the service be attended to with becoming reverence, lest the anger of the Lord be displayed. The high priest was required to make the most careful and solemn preparation, and he must guard himself with the utmost diligence from all contamination. How much more, while the antitypical atonement is going on in heaven, should those who minister in sacred things be holy. “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.] Said Christ, “I sanctify Myself that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] Those who are sent to the people in Christ’s stead should be men of God, pure in life, pure in conversation, ensamples to the flock. They have a solemn work before them, “warning every man and teaching every man, in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” “Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 46, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 46, 1891, par. 18
I have seen the sinfulness of an overflux of sympathy and love for those who are not the obedient children of the commandments of God, while there is not a correspondingly greater degree for those who are seeking to obey and serve the Lord Jesus. Laborers together with God are exhorted to warn every man and to teach every man in all wisdom, that they “may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus, whereunto I also labor, striving according to the working which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.] Here is the conscientious faithful work to be done by the followers of Christ. Colossians 2:2, 3. The Word of God abounds with admonitions and injunctions how Christians should treat Christians. Read Galatians 6:1. If there are mistakes made, they are to be treated with all patience and earnest effort to lead them to see the mistakes and correct them; for the unfallen universe of heaven is interested in these souls struggling for eternal life, beset with temptations, and Satan upon their track to oppose every effort they may make to overcome.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 3, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 27
We are to present Christ to the people, following the words of the apostle where he says, “Whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.] Was it essential for Paul to have this experience? Read carefully his words, and see if it is safe for any of the ministers of Christ to shape their life according to any lower standard of Godliness.Colossians 1:29
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Strive to enter in at the strait gate.”—Luke 13:24.
MB 143.3
The warfare which we are to wage is the “good fight of faith.” “I also labor,” said the apostle Paul, “striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:29.To Be Like Jesus
Regularity and Promptness Are Religious Duties, March 7
BLJ 75.1
To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1:29, NKJV.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Colossians 1:14-29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 27, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 27, 1889, par. 10
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” Colossians 1:14-17.6LtMs, Ms 27, 1889, par. 13
“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:25-29.Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1427—Reflections While Crossing the Pacific
20MR 26.5
All our activities, all our business arrangements, should be in perfect accord with the Lord’s commands. The laws of God’s kingdom must be obeyed by the subjects of that kingdom. Our zeal for the advancement of God’s kingdom is to mark us as faithful subjects of the cross of Christ. God can trust as His representatives those who implicitly obey him. [Colossians 1:14-23, quoted.]20MR 26.6
This is a representation of the work that God expects to see accomplished as the result of all missionary effort. “According to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you,” Paul continues, “to fulfil the word of God.” [Colossians 1:26-29, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 82, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 82, 1900, par. 19
“For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometimes alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in his sight; if ye continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister.” [Colossians 1:14-23.]15LtMs, Ms 82, 1900, par. 21
“According to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you,” Paul continues, “to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints; to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working which worketh in me mightily.” [Verses 25-29.]