EGW WritingsColossians 2
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 2
Read Colossians 2 in the BibleColossians 2:8-18
Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Modern Spiritualism
1TT 95.1
I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern spiritualism: (Colossians 2:8): “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel, it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”1TT 95.2
Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in His teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves, to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Special warning is given in (verse 18): “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.”Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 80—Satan’s Science of Self-exaltation
2MCP 723.2
Not Found in Christ’s Teachings—I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern spiritualism: Colossians 2:8: “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”...2MCP 723.4
Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in His teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves, to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Special warning is given in verse 18: “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.”—Testimonies for the Church 1:297 (1862).Colossians 2:8-19
Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b
Philosophy and Vain Deceit
4bSG 87.1
I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern Spiritualism. Colossians 2:8. “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel, it is almost sure to lose its balance, and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works, that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in his teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Especial warning is given in Verse 18. “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” The teachers of Spiritualism will come in a pleasing, bewitching manner to deceive you, and if you listen to their fables you are beguiled by the enemy of righteousness, and will surely lose your reward. When once the fascinating influence of the arch deceiver overcomes you, you are poisoned, and its deadly influence adulterates and destroys your faith in Christ’s being the Son of God, and you cease to rely on the merits of his blood. Those deceived by this philosophy are beguiled of their reward through the deceptions of Satan. They rely upon their own merits, exercise voluntary humility, are willing to even make sacrifices, and debase themselves, and yield their minds to the belief of supreme non-sense, receiving the most absurd ideas through those whom they believe to be their dead friends. Satan has so blinded their eyes, and perverted their judgment, that they perceive not the evil. They follow out the instructions purporting to be from their dead friends, now angels in a higher sphere. Satan has chosen the most certain, fascinating delusion, calculated to take hold of the sympathies of those who have laid their loved ones in the grave. Evil angels assume the form of these loved ones, and relate incidents connected with their lives, and perform acts which their friends performed while living. In this way they deceive, and lead the relatives of the dead to believe their deceased friends are angels hovering about them, and communing with them, which they regard with a certain idolatry. What they may say has greater influence over them than the word of God. These evil angels who assume to be dead friends will either utterly reject God’s word as idle tales, or if it suits their purpose best, will select the vital portions which testify of Christ and point out the way to Heaven, and change the plain statements of the word of God to suit their own corrupt nature, and ruin souls. All may, with due attention to the word of God, be convinced if they will of this soul-destroying delusion. The word of God declares in positive terms that “the dead know not anything.” Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6. “For the living know that they shall die; but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion forever in anything that is done under the sun.”4bSG 90.2
The most licentious and corrupt are highly flattered by these Satanic spirits, which they believe to be the spirits of their dead friends, and they are “vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds.” Colossians 2:19. “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God,” they deny Him who ministers strength to the body, that every member may increase with the increase of God.The Review and Herald
February 18, 1862
RH February 18, 1862, par. 14
I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern Spiritualism. Colossians 2:8: “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works, that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in his teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Especial warning is given in verse 18: “Let no men beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” The teachers of Spiritualism will come in a pleasing, bewitching manner to deceive you, and if you listen to their fables you are beguiled by the enemy of righteousness, and will surely lose your reward. When once the fascinating influence of the arch deceiver overcomes you, you are poisoned, and its deadly influence adulterates and destroys your faith in Christ’s being the Son of God, and you cease to rely on the merits of his blood. Those deceived by this philosophy are beguiled of their reward through the deceptions of Satan. They rely upon their own merits, exercise voluntary humility, are willing to even make sacrifices, and debase themselves, and yield their minds to the belief of supreme nonsense, receiving the most absurd ideas through those whom they believe to be their dead friends. Satan has so blinded their eyes and perverted their judgment that they perceive not the evil. They follow out the instructions purporting to be from their dead friends, now angels in a higher sphere. Satan has chosen the most certain, fascinating delusion, calculated to take hold of the sympathies of those who have laid their loved ones in the grave. Evil angels assume the form of these loved ones, and relate incidents connected with their lives, and perform acts which their friends performed while living. In this way they deceive and lead the relatives of the dead to believe their deceased friends are angels hovering about them, and communing with them, which they regard with a certain idolatry. What they may say has greater influence over them than the word of God. These evil angels who assume to be dead friends will either utterly reject God’s word as idle tales, or if it suits their purpose best will select the vital portions which testify of Christ and point out the way to heaven, and change the plain statements of the word of God to suit their own corrupt nature, and ruin souls. All may, with due attention to the word of God, be convinced if they will of this soul-destroying delusion. The word of God declares in positive terms that “the dead know not anything.” Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6: “For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion forever in anything that is done under the sun.”RH February 18, 1862, par. 17
The most licentious and corrupt are highly flattered by these Satanic spirits, which they believe to be the spirits of their dead friends, and they are “vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds.” Colossians 2:19: “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God,” they deny Him who ministers strength to the body, that every member may increase with the increase of God.Testimony for the Church — No. 7
“Philosophy and Vain Deceit”
T07 57.1
I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern Spiritualism. Colossians 2:8. “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works, that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in his teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Especial warning is given in verse 18. “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” The teachers of Spiritualism will come in a pleasing, bewitching manner to deceive you, and if you listen to their fables you are beguiled by the enemy of righteousness, and will surely lose your reward. When once the fascinating influence of the arch deceiver overcomes you, you are poisoned, and its deadly influence adulterates and destroys your faith in Christ’s being the Son of God, and you cease to rely on the merits of his blood. Those deceived by this philosophy are beguiled of their reward through the deceptions of Satan. They rely upon their own merits, exercise voluntary humility, are willing to even make sacrifices, and debase themselves, and yield their minds to the belief of supreme nonsense, receiving the most absurd ideas through those whom they believe to be their dead friends. Satan has so blinded their eyes and perverted their judgment that they perceive not the evil. They follow out the instructions purporting to be from their dead friends, now angels in a higher sphere. Satan has chosen the most certain, fascinating delusion, calculated to take hold of the sympathies of those who have laid their loved ones in the grave. Evil angels assume the form of these loved ones, and relate incidents connected with their lives, and perform acts which their friends performed while living. In this way they deceive and lead the relatives of the dead to believe their deceased friends are angels hovering about them, and communing with them, which they regard with a certain idolatry. What they may say has greater influence over them than the word of God. These evil angels who assume to be dead friends will either utterly reject God’s word as idle tales, or if it suits their purpose best will select the vital portions which testify of Christ and point out the way to heaven, and change the plain statements of the word of God to suit their own corrupt nature, and ruin souls. All may, with due attention to the word of God, be convinced if they will of this soul-destroying delusion. The word of God declares in positive terms that “the dead know not anything.” Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6. “For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion forever in anything that is done under the sun.”T07 61.1
The most licentious and corrupt are highly flattered by these Satanic spirits, which they believe to be the spirits of their dead friends, and they are “vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds.” Colossians 2:19 “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God,” they deny Him who ministers strength to the body, that every member may increase with the increase of God.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 61—Philosophy and Vain Deceit
1T 297.1
I was directed to this scripture as especially applying to modern spiritualism: Colossians 2:8: “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Thousands, I was shown, have been spoiled through the philosophy of phrenology and animal magnetism, and have been driven into infidelity. If the mind commences to run in this channel, it is almost sure to lose its balance and be controlled by a demon. “Vain deceit” fills the minds of poor mortals. They think there is such power in themselves to accomplish great works that they realize no necessity of a higher power. Their principles and faith are “after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Jesus has not taught them this philosophy. Nothing of the kind can be found in His teachings. He did not direct the minds of poor mortals to themselves, to a power which they possessed. He was ever directing their minds to God, the Creator of the universe, as the source of their strength and wisdom. Special warning is given in verse 18: “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.”1T 300.2
The most licentious and corrupt are highly flattered by these Satanic spirits, which they believe to be the spirits of their dead friends, and they are vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds. Colossians 2:19: “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God,” they deny Him who ministers strength to the body, that every member may increase with the increase of God.Colossians 2:9
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 48—“Not by Might, nor by Power”
PK 597.2
The second temple was honored, not with the cloud of Jehovah’s glory, but with the presence of the One in whom dwelt “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”—God Himself “manifest in the flesh.” Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16. In being honored with the personal presence of Christ during His earthly ministry, and in this alone, did the second temple exceed the first in glory. The “Desire of all nations” had indeed come to His temple, when the Man of Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts.From Splendor to Shadow
The True Glory of the Second Temple
SS 308.3
The second temple was honored, not with the cloud of God’s glory, but with the presence of the One in whom dwelt “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”—God “manifest in the flesh.” Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16. In this alone did the second temple exceed the first in glory. The “Desire of all nations” had indeed come to His temple, when the Man of Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 53, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 53, 1890, par. 40
We should be filled with thanksgiving that Jesus came to reveal the Father. He rolled back the cloud of thick darkness, the hellish shadow of Satan which intercepted between man and God, and revealed Him to the world as light and love. He stands before the world as the representation of the Father. “In him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.] He was the express image of His person. The perfections of God are seen in the excellencies of Christ. His divinity was clothed with humanity, that He might speak to the human heart and place His divine impress upon the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 21, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 21, 1891, par. 12
The law and the gospel, revealed in the Word, are to be preached to the people, for the law and the gospel, blended, will convict of sin. God’s law, while condemning sin, points to the gospel, revealing Jesus Christ, in whom “dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.] The glory of the gospel reflects light upon the Jewish age, giving significance to the whole Jewish economy of types and shadows. Thus both the law and the gospel are blended. In no discourse are they to be divorced.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 72, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 72, 1895, par. 14
“I am the bread of life.” [Verse 35.] The doing of the words of Christ will give eternal life to the soul. The constant eating of the Word and practicing the teaching of the Word is eternal life to all who eat His Word. [They] will be eating His flesh and drinking His blood and an important union is formed between every soul and Christ through the perfect unity with His spirit in perfect obedience to His Word. All such will show that the Word of God is obeyed. Pride and selfishness are killed. The soul, body, and spirit are brought into perfect subjection to Jesus Christ. The once-polluted habitations of pride and selfishness are purified, cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ, and the testimony of [Paul and] John is voiced by them: “In him dwelleth the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.] “And of his fulness have we all received, and grace for grace.” [John 1:16.] As they receive the grace from Christ they impart that grace, and by imparting, increase of grace is the return. If they do not impart that grace the supply is not continued. Branches of the living vine will be distinguished as a healthy branch. “If any man eat me even he shall live by me.” [John 6:57.] The life is hid with Christ in God. “Because I live, ye shall live also.” [John 14:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 19, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 19, 1897, par. 43
The Lord understand all the defects in human character. He desires to save man. It is for this purpose that He came to the world. In Him is all sufficiency. In Him dwells all the “fulness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.] The defective characters that remain thus when One is among them who came to the world for the express purpose of taking away the sin of the world, make manifest that they do not appreciate the attributes of Christ sufficiently to hunger and thirst after righteousness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 153, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 153, 1898, par. 20
“In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of our sins.” [Colossians 1:14.] This is the great practical truth which must be stamped upon the soul. It is of the greatest importance that all should comprehend the greatness and power of the truth to those who receive it. “In him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.]Reflecting Christ
Christ the Channel of Saving Grace, January 31
RC 45.1
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Colossians 2:9.Reflecting Christ
God’s Law of Love Perfected in Us, February 28
RC 73.5
Jesus said, Be perfect as your Father is perfect. If you are the children of God you are partakers of His nature, and you cannot but be like Him. Every child lives by the life of his father. If you are God’s children, begotten by His Spirit, you live by the life of God. In Christ dwells “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9); and the life of Jesus is made manifest “in our mortal flesh” (2 Corinthians 4:11). That life in you will produce the same character and manifest the same works as it did in Him. Thus you will be in harmony with every precept of His law; for “the law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul” (Psalm 19:7, margin). Through love “the righteousness of the law” will be “fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:4).—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 76-78.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 42—The Revelation of God
1SM 295.2
Those who think they can obtain a knowledge of God aside from His Representative, whom the Word declares is “the express image of his person” (Hebrews 1:3), will need to become fools in their own estimation before they can be wise. It is impossible to gain a perfect knowledge of God from nature alone; for nature itself is imperfect. In its imperfection it cannot represent God, it cannot reveal the character of God in its moral perfection. But Christ came as a personal Saviour to the world. He represented a personal God. As a personal Saviour, He ascended on high; and He will come again as He ascended to heaven—a personal Saviour. He is the express image of the Father’s person. “In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).That I May Know Him
Christ Our Divine Ransom, March 5
TMK 70.2
“In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9). Men need to understand that Deity suffered and sank under the agonies of Calvary. Yet Jesus Christ, whom God gave for the ransom of the world, purchased the church with His own blood. The Majesty of heaven was made to suffer at the hands of religious zealots, who claimed to be the most enlightened people upon the face of the earth.That I May Know Him
Fullness of the Godhead, November 30
TMK 340.4
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14). This is the great practical truth which must be stamped upon the soul. It is of the greatest importance that all should comprehend the greatness and power of the truth to those who receive it. “In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).38Manuscript 153, 1898.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”—Matthew 5:48.
MB 77.5
Jesus said, Be perfect as your Father is perfect. If you are the children of God you are partakers of His nature, and you cannot but be like Him. Every child lives by the life of his father. If you are God’s children, begotten by His Spirit, you live by the life of God. In Christ dwells “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9); and the life of Jesus is made manifest “in our mortal flesh” (2 Corinthians 4:11). That life in you will produce the same character and manifest the same works as it did in Him. Thus you will be in harmony with every precept of His law; for “the law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul.” Psalm 19:7 , margin. Through love “the righteousness of the law” will be “fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:4.Colossians 2:9-10
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.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 18—“He Must Increase”
DA 181.1
So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We cannot discern the character of God, or accept Christ by faith, unless we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this the Holy Spirit is given without measure. In Christ “dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and in Him ye are made full.” Colossians 2:9, 10, R. V.Ye Shall Receive Power
A Spiritual Fight, December 1
YRP 344.3
The Lord Jesus acts through the Holy Spirit; for it is His representative. Through it He infuses spiritual life into the soul, quickening its energies for good, cleansing it from moral defilement, and giving it a fitness for His kingdom. Jesus has large blessings to bestow, rich gifts to distribute among men. He is the wonderful Counselor, infinite in wisdom and strength; and if we will acknowledge the power of His Spirit, and submit to be molded by it, we shall stand complete in Him. What a thought is this! In Christ “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:9, 10).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 23, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 21
“Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also. And from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.” [Verses 5-7.] He is the express image of His Father’s person. “In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Ye are complete in him who is the head of all principality and power.” [Colossians 2:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 266, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 266, 1903, par. 21
“Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that He might be Lord both of the dead and living.” [Romans 14:9.] “In Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 38, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 38, 1904, par. 95
God’s Word to us is: “I am the almighty God; walk before Me, and be ye perfect. Ye shall be holy unto Me; for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other peoples, that ye should be Mine.” [Genesis 17:1; Leviticus 20:26.] “Ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:20.] “For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power;” “who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” [Colossians 2:9, 10; Titus 2:14.]God’s Amazing Grace
Christ’s Representative, July 7
AG 196.4
The Lord Jesus acts through the Holy Spirit; for it is His representative. Through it He infuses spiritual life into the soul, quickening its energies for good, cleansing it from moral defilement, and giving it a fitness for His kingdom. Jesus has large blessings to bestow, rich gifts to distribute among men. He is the wonderful Counselor, infinite in wisdom and strength; and if we will acknowledge the power of His Spirit, and submit to be molded by it, we shall stand complete in Him. What a thought is this! In Christ “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:9, 10). Never will the human heart know happiness until it is submitted to be molded by the Spirit of God. The Spirit conforms the renewed soul to the model, Jesus Christ. Through the influence of the Spirit, enmity against God is changed into faith and love, and pride into humility. The soul perceives the beauty of truth, and Christ is honored in excellence and perfection of character. As these changes are effected, angels break out in rapturous song, and God and Christ rejoice over souls fashioned after the divine similitude.19Messages to Young People, 55, 56.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Complete Saviour, May 4
JNN 135.1
For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.—Colossians 2:9, 10Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
The Experience of John the Baptist
GW 57.1
In this glory of Christ all His followers are to share. The Saviour could say, “I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.” [John 5:30.] And John declared, “God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We can discern the character of God, and accept Christ by faith, only as we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. And to all who do this, the Holy Spirit is given without measure. In Christ “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:9, 10.]Maranatha
“Behold the Lamb of God,” April 19
Mar 117.6
The soul of the prophet, emptied of self, was filled with the light of the Divine.... He bore witness to the Saviour’s glory.... In this glory of Christ, all His followers are to share.... We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We can discern the character of God, and accept Christ by faith, only as we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this, the Holy Spirit is given without measure. In Christ “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him.” Colossians 2:9, 10.34Testimonies for the Church 8:333, 334.Our High Calling
Spirit Given on Condition, May 25
OHC 151.5
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,” and this command is also a promise of its fulfillment. It was the good pleasure of the Father that in Christ should “all the fulness” dwell; and “in him ye are made full” (Colossians 2:9, 10, R.V.).49The Review and Herald, November 5, 1908.Our High Calling
Christ’s Representative, May 26
OHC 152.4
The Lord Jesus acts through the Holy Spirit; for it is His representative. Through it He infuses spiritual life into the soul, quickening its energies for good, cleansing from moral defilement, and giving it a fitness for His kingdom. Jesus has large blessings to bestow, rich gifts to distribute among men. He is the wonderful Counselor, infinite in wisdom and strength; and if we will acknowledge the power of His Spirit, and submit to be molded by it, we shall stand complete in Him. What a thought is this! In Christ “dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him.” Colossians 2:9, 10.Our High Calling
Aim High! December 24
OHC 364.1
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9, 10.Sons and Daughters of God
By Abiding in Christ, the Source of Power, October 2
SD 282.1
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9, 10.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Experience of John the Baptist
8T 334.2
In this glory of Christ all His followers are to share. The Saviour could say: “I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.” John 5:30. “And,” declared John, “the Father giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We can discern the character of God, and accept Christ by faith, only as we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this, the Holy Spirit is given without measure. In Christ “dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him.” Colossians 2:9, 10.Colossians 2:9-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 140, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 9
The lawyer asked, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Christ lays the burden right on that lawyer, who had been studying that point for some time. But there were enemies, waiting, hoping to grasp some word so that they could condemn the Lord, and He laid it right on them: “Thou shalt love the Lord ... with all thy mind.” [Luke 10:25-27.] That takes the whole man. Then what? What kind of a world would we have if we keep the commandments of God? It would be next to heaven. We are preparing to enter the gates that shall be thrown open to the saints, who are welcomed into the city of God, to enjoy what? Eternal life—a life that measures with the life of God. Therefore it is of the highest consequence to us that we understand the science of salvation in this world, that we take right hold upon the powers that God has given. “For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” [Colossians 2:9.]21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 13
And then it says: “And ye are complete in Him.” Well, let us aim for that completeness—“which is the head of all principality and power”—complete in Him. [Colossians 2:10.] If you are complete in Him, you still stand on the highest level of Christian influence. You will have a power that will come from above, that will give you that grace that will represent the spirit of heaven, that will represent the Spirit of Christ. Don’t let us deny Him by our lips, by our voice, by our attitude. God help us now, right at the last, living in the close of the last days of this earth’s history, to feel that it is important that we have made our calling and our election sure.21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 14
We want to meet every one of you in the heavenly courts. We want to see this large company that shall enter in through the gates into the city and shall have a right unto the tree of life. Why? Because they have kept all the commandments. They have kept the law of God; they have kept His Sabbath, which is the day that He has enjoined upon all them that believe, and that have kept all His commandments. We are to enter right into the spirit of heaven. “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [Matthew 25:34.] That kingdom we want. “In whom also ye are circumcised with circumcision made without hands—circumcision of Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 2:11.] His Spirit has taken possession of mind and eyes and heart and soul and strength. What a world we should have, if this were only carried out!21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 15
“Buried with Him in baptism where—having forgiven you all trespasses.” [Verses 12, 13.]21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 21
Now what we need is this perfection that is mentioned here. “And ye are complete in”—yourself? No. “In Him.” Our whole trust is in Him. Colossians 2:10. I am so very glad of the possibility. Are you glad? Are you going to wrestle for victories? Satan will oppose your way; he will tempt you upon your weakest points. Now, you want to make the weakest the strongest. When you are aggravated by words that you think ought not to be spoken, do not respond. Silence is eloquence, and it will stop the raid that is made against you so much sooner than if you begin to try to explain. Just stop right where you are.Colossians 2:10
Counsels on Health
The Bible Your Counselor
CH 369.3
Many of the books piled up in the great libraries of earth confuse the mind more than they aid the understanding. Yet men spend large sums of money in the purchase of such books and years in their study, when they have within their reach a Book containing the words of Him who is the Alpha and Omega of wisdom. The time spent in a study of these books might better be spent in gaining a knowledge of Him whom to know aright is life eternal. Those only who gain this knowledge will at last hear the words, “Ye are complete in Him.” Colossians 2:10.Medical Ministry
Development of Experience
MM 74.2
To those who with steadfast perseverance strive to reveal the attributes of Christ, angels are commissioned to give enlarged views of His character and work, His power and grace and love. Thus they become partakers of His nature, and day by day grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. The sanctification of the Spirit is seen in thought, word, and deed. Their ministry is life and salvation to all with whom they associate. Of such ones it is declared, “Ye are complete in Him.” Colossians 2:10.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 485-491Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 4—Spiritual Influences and the Mind
1MCP 27.1
Religion and Health—Personal religion is of the highest importance. John wrote to Gaius, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth” (3 John 2). Health of body depends largely upon health of soul; therefore whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God. Personal religion is revealed by the deportment, the words, and the actions. It causes growth, till at last perfection claims the commendation of the Lord, “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10)— Letter 117, 1901Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 13—Food for the Mind
1MCP 108.3
Some Books Confuse the Mind—Many of the books piled up in the great libraries of earth confuse the mind more than they aid the understanding. Yet men spend large sums of money in the purchase of such books, and years in their study, when they have within their reach a Book containing the words of Him who is the Alpha and Omega of wisdom. The time spent in a study of these books might better be spent in gaining a knowledge of Him whom to know aright is life eternal. Those only who gain this knowledge will at last hear the words, “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10).—(Pamphlet) Words of Counsel, 1903. (Counsels on Health, 369.)Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 37—Principles of Study and Learning
1MCP 358.4
Learning is good. The wisdom of Solomon is desirable; but the wisdom of a greater than Solomon is far more desirable and essential. Through the learning in our schools we cannot reach Christ, but we can through Christ reach the highest end of the ladder in science; for the word of inspiration says, “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10). Our first business is to see and acknowledge God, and then He will direct our path.—Letter 120, 1896.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.Our Father Cares
Christ Has Power for Us, October 22
OFC 307.1
And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10.Our High Calling
What Is Faith? April 21
OHC 117.3
The acceptance of Christ’s atonement is the groundwork of true faith.... Those who will look long enough into the divine mirror to see and despise their sins, their unlikeness to the meek and lowly Jesus, will have strength to overcome. All who truly believe will confess and forsake their sins. They will cooperate with Christ in the work of bringing their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong under the control of the divine will, so that sin shall not have dominion over them. Looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith, they will be changed into His likeness. They will grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus.... Those who truly believe, who confess and forsake their sins, will grow more and more like Christ, until of them it can in heaven be said, “Ye are complete in him.” Colossians 2:10.49Letter 21, 1901.Reflecting Christ
We Are Complete in Christ, March 3
RC 76.5
Perfection through our own good works we can never attain. The soul who sees Jesus by faith repudiates his own righteousness. He sees himself as incomplete, his repentance insufficient, his strongest faith but feebleness, his most costly sacrifice as meager, and he sinks in humility at the foot of the cross. But a voice speaks to him from the oracles of God’s Word. In amazement he hears the message, “Ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:10). Now all is at rest in his soul. No longer must he strive to find some worthiness in himself, some meritorious deed by which to gain the favor of God.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 20—Words from a Heavenly Instructor
6T 166.2
Pointing to the Bible he said: “The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are to be combined in the work of fitting a people to stand in the day of the Lord. Earnestly improve your present opportunities. Make the word of the living God your lessonbook. If this had always been done, students lost to the cause of God would now be missionaries. Jehovah is the only true God, and He is to be reverenced and worshiped. Those who respect the words of infidel authors and lead students to look upon these books as essential in their education lessen their faith in God. The tone, the spirit, the influence of these books is deleterious to those who depend on them for knowledge. Influences have been brought to bear upon the students that have led them to look away from Christ, the Light of the world, and evil angels rejoice that those who profess to know God deny Him as He has been thus denied in our schools. The Sun of Righteousness has been shining upon the church to dispel the darkness and to call the attention of God’s people to the preparation essential for those who would shine as lights in the world. Those who receive this light will comprehend it; those who do not receive it will walk in darkness, knowing not at what they stumble. The soul is never safe unless it is under the divine guidance. Then it will be led into all truth. The word of Christ will fall with living power upon obedient hearts; and through the application of divine truth the perfect image of God will be reproduced, and in heaven it will be said: ‘Ye are complete in Him.’” Colossians 2:10.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Spiritual Growth
CT 491.2
To those who with steadfast perseverance strive to reveal the attributes of Christ, angels are commissioned to give enlarged views of His character and work, His power and grace and love. Thus they become partakers of His nature, and day by day grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. The sanctification of the Spirit is seen in thought, word, and deed. Their ministry is life and salvation to all with whom they associate. Of such ones it is declared, “Ye are complete in Him.” Colossians 2:10.That I May Know Him
The Science of Holiness, May 5
TMK 131.6
It is our lifework to be reaching forward to the perfection of Christian character, striving constantly for conformity to God’s will. Day by day we are to press upward, ever upward, until of us it can be said, “Ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:10).6Ibid.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.The Upward Look
Christ Has Power for Us, August 12
UL 238.1
And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10.The Upward Look
Get Acquainted With God, August 22
UL 248.4
Lose no time in becoming acquainted with the principles that the children of God must follow. We are here to copy the character of Christ, to become familiar with His gentleness, His lowliness. This will place us where our record will be, “Ye are complete in him.” (Colossians 2:10). By patience, kindness, forbearance, we are to show that we are not of the world, that day by day we are learning the lessons that will fit us to enter the higher school.This Day With God
Cherish the Spirit of Happiness, August 17
TDG 238.6
In the night season I have been praying much for a greater realization of my Saviour’s love. Although I never lose His love from my heart, nevertheless I greatly desire that it shall increase more and more, until of me it can be said, “Ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:10).Ye Shall Receive Power
Complete in Him, February 22
YRP 61.1
And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10.Ye Shall Receive Power
The Salt of the Earth, June 3
YRP 163.4
If you respond to the drawing of Jesus, you will not fail to have an influence on somebody through the beauty and power of the grace of Christ. Let us behold Him and become changed into the image of Him in whom dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and realize that we are accepted in the Beloved, “complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power” (Colossians 2:10).—Bible Echo, February 15, 1892.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Words From a Heavenly Instructor
2TT 433.1
Pointing to the Bible he said: “The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are to be combined in the work of fitting a people to stand in the day of the Lord. Earnestly improve your present opportunities. Make the word of the living God your lessonbook. If this had always been done, students lost to the cause of God would now be missionaries. Jehovah is the only true God, and He is to be reverenced and worshiped. Those who respect the words of infidel authors and lead students to look upon these books as essential in their education lessen their faith in God. The tone, the spirit, the influence of these books is deleterious to those who depend on them for knowledge. Influences have been brought to bear upon the students that have led them to look away from Christ, the Light of the world, and evil angels rejoice that those who profess to know God deny Him as He has been thus denied in our schools. The Sun of Righteousness has been shining upon the church to dispel the darkness and to call the attention of God’s people to the preparation essential for those who would shine as lights in the world. Those who receive this light will comprehend it; those who do not receive it will walk in darkness, knowing not at what they stumble. The soul is never safe unless it is under the divine guidance. Then it will be led into all truth. The word of Christ will fall with living power upon obedient hearts; and through the application of divine truth the perfect image of God will be reproduced, and in heaven it will be said: ‘Ye are complete in Him.’” Colossians 2:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 15, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 15, 1887, par. 13
We are to look unto Jesus, who is the author and the finisher of our faith, in order that by beholding we may become changed into His image, from character to character. We are not always to retain the same mold of character, but more and more to reflect the image of Jesus, that we may lead men away from self and out of self to become one with Christ. “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] Our completeness is in Jesus Christ. He is our pattern.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 25, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 25, 1891, par. 2
We must not talk and think and magnify the power of Satan, but talk of the confidence we have in Jesus Christ. Let the love, the inexpressible love, of Jesus so be presented in our own minds and cherished that we can communicate it to the other minds, and clear away all their distrust, and lay hold of the riches of the grace of Christ, and we “are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] He has arisen, and over the rent sepulchre of Joseph He proclaims, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 103, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 103, 1893, par. 17
Parents, for your own sakes, for the sake of your children, and for the sake of the One who died that you might become sons of God, walk humble before Him. Keep your characters pure and elevated. Do not allow opportunities for service to pass by unappreciated and unimproved. Grow up into Christ, your living Head, that you may be “complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] Do not allow your children to become careless and loose in their habits. As you educate them in harmony with God’s will, you yourselves will learn valuable lessons. Will you not avail yourselves of the opportunity granted to make yourselves and your children physically, mentally, and morally what God designs you to be?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 31a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 31a, 1893, par. 10
The Lord has not withdrawn His Holy Spirit from those who have not accepted the truth. In the way the truth has been presented to those not of our faith, it has tasted so strongly of the dish that it was not palatable, and was rejected, and the truth was stigmatized and made of none effect by the spirit developed, as being the cause of the unchristian representation. Every one who believes is to be a savor of life unto life. His influence is to be fragrant and pure and undefiled, and purified from selfishness. Oh, to be accepted in the Beloved! What a work! “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 33, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 33, 1894, par. 5
We are nearing the end of this earth’s history. We have only a short time now in which to perfect Christian character. But those who love Jesus will love those who are the purchase of His blood. Far more patience must be exercised, more earnest efforts must be made to save the erring. Man cannot change his own heart or atone for his own sins. He cannot remove one spot or stain of sin from the character. Human merit cannot elevate the soul and make men fit to meet the favor of God. Salvation is out of and away from ourselves. Salvation is by Jesus Christ, for He alone is our righteousness. Would that every one would cease to look to himself for merit. We are to find in Jesus Christ all we need, and by co-operating with Him we shall be complete in Him. “Ye are complete in Him,” not having your own righteousness, but having His merits, His righteousness. [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 14, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 14, 1895, par. 15
All who choose to be satisfied with a low standard, when by diligent application they might reach a higher standard, will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. Some of the students sent from Australia have given evidence that they know not their calling. They know not their own value. They have been bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God; they are not owners of themselves. They are redeemed by the life of God’s dear Son, whether they have accepted and appreciated their emancipation or not. Will such young men and young women fold their hands and rest satisfied? Will they urge their way heavenward, until it can be said of them, “Ye are complete in him”? [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 141a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 141a, 1896, par. 13
Let the students take the love and fear of God with them into their school life. This is wisdom more precious than words can express. Connected with God, it can be said of them, as of Daniel, God gave him wisdom and knowledge in all mysteries. Learning is good. The wisdom of Solomon is desirable; but the wisdom of a greater than Solomon is far more desirable and essential. Through the learning in our schools we cannot reach Christ, but we can through Christ reach the highest end of the ladder in science, for the Word of inspiration says, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] Our first business is to see and acknowledge God, and then He will direct our path.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 69, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 69, 1896, par. 33
In simple, humble faith cast your care upon Jesus, and you will have rest and peace. Abide under the shadow of the cross of the crucified Redeemer. Banish ingratitude, for, if cherished, it will kill the love of God in your heart. Rest in the assurance that you are in the hands of God. He will take care of you. Can you not trust your life, your character, your all, in the hands of the faithful, loving Jehovah? It is His desire that you should both perfect a Christian character, and by yielding yourself into His keeping, you may be “complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 141, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 141, 1896, par. 20
Let the students take the love and fear of God with them into their school life. This is wisdom more precious than words can express. Connected with God it can be said of them as of Daniel, God gave him wisdom and knowledge in all mysteries. Learning is good, the wisdom of Solomon is desirable; but the wisdom of a greater than Solomon is far more desirable and essential. We cannot go to Christ through learning in our schools, but we can, through Christ reach the highest round of the ladder in science, for the Word of inspiration says, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] The very first business is to see and acknowledge God, and then He will direct your path.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 145, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 145, 1897, par. 27
The flood of corruption that is sweeping over our world is the result of the misuse and abuse of the human machinery. Men, women, and children should be educated to labor with their hands. Then the brain will not be overtaxed, to the detriment of the whole organism. Time is a talent, to be wisely employed. The voice is a talent, to be used in communicating knowledge that will make men pure, holy, and refined. The tongue should be educated to speak in such a manner that God will be magnified. “Lord, increase my faith,” will be the prayer of the true child of God. [Luke 17:5.] “Deliver me from evil thoughts and perverse actions.” Thus he is enabled to say with boldness, “Behold, God is my salvation: I will trust and not be afraid. For the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.” [Isaiah 12:2.] Completeness of Christian character is possible. How? “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 69, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 21
I send you this epistle because I know that you have need of all that I have written to you. I pray that the Holy Spirit will work you, and produce in you a character that the books of heaven may reveal as “complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 148, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 148, 1897, par. 10
I told the people that the Lord was not glorified in their deficiency and dwarfed spirituality. The Lord would have every soul complete—in himself?—no: complete in Jesus Christ. “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] It was the whole sacrifice that our Redeemer made for us, and it is an entire, whole offering that is made in our behalf. As it was a whole spotless offering that was given to save the fallen race, it was a whole and full salvation procured for my soul. This was done that every human being might render soul, spirit, heart, and affections to God. God will not accept a divided heart. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.Faith and Works
A Truth Hard to Grasp
FW 108.1
Beholding the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world, he finds the peace of Christ; for pardon is written against his name, and he accepts the Word of God, “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10). How hard is it for humanity, long accustomed to cherish doubt, to grasp this great truth! But what peace it brings to the soul, what vital life! In looking to ourselves for righteousness, by which to find acceptance with God, we look to the wrong place, “for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). We are to look to Jesus; for “we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). You are to find your completeness by beholding the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 121, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 121, 1898, par. 14
Let self be entrusted to the Lord, for without Him we can do nothing. We must feel our dependence and our comfort and our exceeding great reward. I love the Lord. I know this. I delight to commune with God in the night season. Oh, let us be imbued with the Spirit of Christ. We must have this Spirit. It must mold and fashion our hearts, and then in the heavenly courts it will be written of us, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] We must not dwell upon our own imperfections, nor upon the imperfections of others. We have no time for this. We must keep our own souls in the love of God. There must be a giving up before there is a taking in.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 157, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 157, 1898, par. 5
The main purpose of life should be to understand and appreciate the high honor conferred upon us. Christian conformity means entire conformity of man’s will to the will of God. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] This is the standard God designs all His followers to reach. The standard is that of Christlikeness. “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] This is the only way that a perfect character can be obtained.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 89, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 33
Paul asks, “Is Christ divided?” [1 Corinthians 1:13.] Have we not one spiritual Head? When my heart is overwhelmed, then pray, “Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.” [Psalm 61:2.] Precious is His all atoning sacrifice, His blood shed in our behalf. Precious is His all-atoning merits, precious His sanctifying righteousness. Precious is His infinite fullness and sufficiency. “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] “And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [John 1:16.] All other foundation is shifting sand. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, male nor female. We are all one in Christ Jesus, and Christ is our head.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 63, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 41
The little things become great in accordance with the attention given them. The one talent is not to be wrapped in a napkin and hidden in the earth. Do what you can for the Master. “He that is faithful in that which is least” will be “faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] The Master will use every talent that we consecrate to Him. Your worth is determined by the faithfulness with which you do the little things. Every one needs in the details of daily life to learn to build for time and for eternity. Then at last there will be written against his name in the books of heaven the most precious commendation, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 20, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 20, 1899, par. 7
The material for the building is plainly specified in the first chapter of Second Peter. Man is to work constantly on the plan of addition, and God works on the plan of multiplication. Thus man grows in spirituality, in experience, until he presents to the world, to angels, and to men, such a perfection of character that in the heavenly courts the words are spoken, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] God has originated and proclaimed the principles on which both divine and human agencies are to combine in all spiritual achievements as well as temporal matters. They are to be linked together in all human pursuits, in mechanical and agricultural labors, in mercantile and scientific enterprises.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 102, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 102, 1899, par. 7
He who beholds Jesus, realizing what He is to us and what we are to Him, will be diligent. He will live on the plan of addition, adding to his faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience, and to patience godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness charity. This is a process of growth. He who co-operates with Christ will not be found tomorrow where he is today. Every day he will follow on to know the Lord, that he may know that his going forth is prepared as the morning. Of those who live in this way it will be written at last, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 83, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 83, 1899, par. 1
In the plan of redemption a place is allotted to every soul, and each one is to take the place assigned him and do the work appointed him. The work of God’s people may and will be varied, but one Spirit is the mover in it all. God calls upon the members of His church to receive the Holy Spirit, to come together in unity and brotherly sympathy, to bind their interests together in love. Christian unity is a mighty agency. When God’s chosen people are of one mind, barriers of selfishness will disappear as by magic, and many, many more souls will be converted, because of the unity which exists among believers. There is one body and one Spirit. Those who have been building territorial lines of distinction, barriers of color and caste, might better take these down much faster than they put them up. Man is to obey the Word of God declared in the seventeenth chapter of John. He is to be one with his fellow man and with Christ, and in Christ one with God. Then of him can be spoken the words, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 16a, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 16a, 1899, par. 12
The apostle Paul declares, “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] The material for the building is plainly specified in the words, “Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:5-8.] Here we are shown how we may co-operate with God. Man is to work constantly upon the plan of addition, while God works on the plan of multiplication. Thus man grows in spirituality, until he presents to the world, to angels, and to men such perfection of character that in the heavenly courts the words are spoken, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 198, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 39
We are not living up to our privileges unless we expect much, receive much, and impart much. It is only under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit that we can do this. The Lord is dishonored when those who call themselves by His name give him only a half-hearted service. Christians are to grow in grace. It is our privilege to develop characters that will endure through all eternity. Those who strive, in Christ’s name and strength, for full Christian development of character, will accomplish much. They will be enabled to hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end. It is our privilege so to live that each day the record in the books of heaven will declare, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]God’s Amazing Grace
Undivided Occupancy, March 30
AG 97.6
The blessing of grace is given to men that the heavenly universe and the fallen world may see as they could not otherwise, the perfection of Christ’s character. The Great Physician came to our world to show men and women that through His grace they may so live that in the great day of God they can receive the precious testimony, “Ye are complete in him” (Colossians 2:10).70Counsels on Health, 591-593.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 196, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 196, 1901, par. 27
It is our privilege to be partakers of the divine nature, but in order to be this, we must watch vigilantly against sin. Appearance is nothing, pretense is nothing, in God’s sight. He marks with pleasure the sincerity of real reformation, shown in a life of purity and righteousness. Nothing short of such a life will He accept from His workers. Whatever our position, we are to strive earnestly to live the Christ-life. The truth must dwell in the heart, ennobling and sanctifying the life. Christ was without guile, and His human workers must be as He was. They must be closely united to Him, that they may work to the glory of God. Then their record in the books of heaven will be, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 81a, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, par. 18
The Lord wants every one who goes to London to stand where he can say, We are brethren. I am willing to learn every day, that I may be so educated that it may be said of me, “Ye are complete in Christ.” [See Colossians 2:10.] God wants those at the heart of the work to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice. Do not look over to London and say, “Be ye warmed and be ye clothed and be ye fed,” while neglecting to do those things which will relieve their necessities. [See James 2:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 21, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 21, 1901, par. 43
Those who truly believe, who confess and forsake their sins, will grow more and more like Christ until of them it can in heaven be said, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 84, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, par. 33
While obtaining our education, we have the inestimable privilege of sitting at the feet of Jesus, and at last of having it written in the books of heaven, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] O, precious, precious Saviour, who has given us all of these opportunities, that we may win eternal life! May God help every one of you to take these words to heart and meditate upon them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 117, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 117, 1901, par. 11
Personal religion is of the highest importance. John wrote to Gaius, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” [3 John 2.] Health of body depends largely upon health of soul; therefore whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God. Personal religion is revealed by the deportment, the words, and the actions. It causes growth, till at last perfection claims the commendation of the Lord, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 11, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 11, 1902, par. 3
We bear the name of Christian. Let us be true to this name. Christ declared, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Those who obey His Word are accounted as friends of God. We should be very careful not to grasp so many responsibilities that we shall weave into the web our individual misconceptions, because we have an incorrect idea of what constitutes principle. If we did fewer of the things that are not essential, and gave more time to those things that stablish, strengthen, and settle the mind and heart, we should grow to the full stature of men and women in Christ, and God would say of us, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 82, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 82, 1902, par. 1
I look upon you as one of my children in the Lord. Although for years my acquaintance with you has been limited, yet I have always had a deep interest in you. My mind has been drawn out in earnest prayer that you shall, by continual growth in grace, succeed in reaching that state of perfection that will enable God to say of you, “Ye are complete in him who is the head of all principalities and powers.” [Colossians 2:10.]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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 127, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 127, 1902, par. 8
This Scripture embraces much. We shall all lose a great deal, if we are not learners all the time. In the school of Christ, we can never be graduated. When we are promoted to the upper grade, we shall take with us all the true knowledge that we have learned in this life. All the learning that we have gained in becoming acquainted with God, and in being brought into sacred nearness to Him in the work of saving souls, we shall carry with us, and this will give us just that much of a start in the school above. In the education that we are now obtaining, line upon line, precept upon precept, we are just beginning to understand something about God’s requirements of us. But we fall far short of reaching the high standard that we should reach. Instead of thinking that we have already attained perfection of knowledge, constantly we are to reach forward to attain more wisdom and grace; constantly we are to endeavor to secure a more full understanding of what God requires of us, so that in the heavenly courts it can be said of us, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 96, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 96, 1902, par. 29
This very day the Lord desires us to reach a higher standard than we have ever reached in the past. Day by day we are to advance upward, ever upward, until it can be said of us as a people, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 4, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 4, 1902, par. 10
God is no respecter of persons. Those that honor Him, He will honor. Of those who obey His commandments it is written, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] They co-operate with Him in the work of soul-saving. God says to them, “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” [Jude 20-25.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 155, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 155, 1902, par. 34
How long will it be before we yield our wills to the will of God? It took a fearfully severe experience to lead Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge Jehovah as the supreme Ruler. God is waiting for us to give ourselves to him. Then He will mold and fashion the perverse human mind into His own likeness, taking the things of Christ and showing them to us. And as we behold the beauty of the Saviour’s character, we shall grow more and more like Him, until at last God can speak to us the words, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 275, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 275, 1903, par. 41
Christ invites our physicians to become acquainted with Him. When they respond to His invitation, they will know that they receive the things they ask for. Their minds will be enlightened by wisdom from above. Constantly beholding the Saviour, they will become more and more like Him, till at last it can be said of them in the heavenly courts, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] Christ has pledged Himself to give His disciples what they ask for in His name. As they labor in harmony with Him, they can ask Him to aid them in every time of need.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 77, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 77, 1903, par. 1
This morning I have read over the letters I have written you, and I will now write a letter to you both. Do not for one moment think of separating. See how much of the precious graces of the Spirit you can each bring into your lives. Soon we shall see the King in His beauty. In this life we are to get a fitting up that will enable us to act a part in the future life. Remember that the eye of Christ is upon you both. He says, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Study His life and follow His example. Never give way to your feelings, but move from a consciousness that Christ is your only hope. Commune with Him. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] Take your position on the side of God. See in the beauty and perfection of His created works a revelation of His power and goodness and majesty. He desires to form in each of you a character like His own perfect character, that your record in the books of heaven may be, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 114, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 114, 1903, par. 51
The Lord is coming soon. We have but little time in which to prepare for His coming. Every day, the record of our life for that day is recorded in the books of heaven. At the judgment, may those books say of every one here, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 241, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 241, 1903, par. 3
Many of the books piled up in the great libraries of earth confuse the mind more than they aid the understanding! Yet men spend large sums of money in the purchase of such books, and years in their study, when they have within their reach a book containing the words of Him who is the Alpha and Omega of wisdom. The time spent in a study of these books might better be spent in gaining a knowledge of Him whom to know aright is life eternal. Those only who gain this knowledge will at last hear the words, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 185, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 185, 1903, par. 7
In the night season I have been praying much for a greater realization of my Saviour’s love. Although I never lose His love from my heart, nevertheless I greatly desire that it shall increase more and more, until it can be said, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 91, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 43
By receiving to impart, we shall become laborers together with God. Then He will work in and through us according to His good pleasure. Students, if you realize that you are to be laborers together with Him, you will not stoop to frivolity; all your work will be done thoroughly and conscientiously. You are standing on a high platform: you are God’s husbandry, God’s building; and therefore you are to bring into your character building no rotten timbers or other imperfect material. All things are open to Him with whom we have to do. Let us so conduct ourselves that at last it may be said of us, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]In Heavenly Places
“Complete in Him,” February 29
HP 66.1
And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 89, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 17
Let us thank God every day for the blessings that are ours. If the human agent will humble himself before God, realizing how inappropriate it is for him to cherish a feeling of self-sufficiency, realizing his utter inability to do the work that needs to be done in order for his soul to be purified, casting away, making of no account, his own righteousness, Christ will engrave His own image upon his soul. He will put His hand to the work of creating him anew and will continue the work until he is “complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 31, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 31, 1903, par. 12
Lose no time in becoming acquainted with the principles that the children of God must follow. We are here to copy the character of Christ, to become familiar with His gentleness, His lowliness. This will place us where our record will be, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] By patience, kindness, forbearance, we are to show that we are not of the world, that day by day we are learning the lessons that will fit us to enter the higher school. When God’s redeemed ones are called to heaven, they will not leave behind the advancement they have made in this life by beholding Christ. They will go on, learning more and still more of God. They will carry their spiritual attainments into the courts above, leaving nothing of heavenly origin in this world. As the books of heaven are opened, each overcomer is assigned his lot and place in heaven, in accordance with the advancement he has made in this life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 14, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 14, 1904, par. 8
In word and deed the physicians and nurses in our medical institutions are to say, so plainly that it cannot be misunderstood, “God is in this place,” to save, not to destroy. Christ invites our physicians to become acquainted with Him. When they respond to His invitation, they will know that they receive the things they ask for. Their minds will be enlightened by wisdom from above. Constantly beholding the Saviour, they will become more and more like Him, till at last it can be said of them in the heavenly courts, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] Christ has pledged Himself to give His disciples what they ask for in His name. As they labor in harmony with Him, they can ask Him to aid them in every time of need.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 127, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 127, 1905, par. 19
“Love for men brought Christ to our world. Without the new birth, you cannot be counted as one of whom God can say, ‘Ye are complete in Him.’ [Colossians 2:10.] Without an entire transformation of character, you will never see God. Genuine religious life is to you a fable. O that thou hadst known, even thou in this thy day the things which belong to thy peace! Then your light would have sprung forth as the morning.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Uniting Stone, September 12
JNN 270.5
Paul asks, “Is Christ divided?” (1 Corinthians 1:13). Have we not one spiritual Head? When my heart is overwhelmed, then pray, “Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I” (Psalm 61:2). Precious is His all atoning sacrifice, His blood shed in our behalf. Precious is His all-atoning merits, precious His sanctifying righteousness. Precious is His infinite fullness and sufficiency. “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10). “And of His fulness have all we received, and grace for grace” (John 1:16). All other foundation is shifting sand. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, male nor female. We are all one in Christ Jesus, and Christ is our Head.—Manuscript 89, 1898.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 883—All-Round Christian Education
11MR 174.4
Completeness of Christian character is possible. How? “Ye are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10).—Letter 145, 1897, pp. 3, 6, 9, 10. (To W. C. White, August 15, 1897.)Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1412—The Case of J. H. Kellogg; Christ, the Great Medical Missionary; Physicians to Labor as Christ Labored
19MR 365.1
Christ invites our physicians to become acquainted with Him. When they respond to His invitation, they will know that they receive the things they ask for. Their minds will be enlightened by wisdom from above. Constantly beholding the Saviour, they will become more and more like Him, till at last it can be said of them in the heavenly courts, “Ye are complete in Him” [Colossians 2:10]. Christ has pledged Himself to give His disciples what they ask for in His name. As they labor in harmony with Him, they can ask Him to aid them in every time of need.—Letter 275, 1903.Colossians 2:12
The Faith I Live By
Baptism and the Passion of Christ, October 24
FLB 303.1
Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Colossians 2:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 5, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 5, 1895, par. 8
Christ came to earth to be the Sin-bearer, to suffer for man’s transgression, not to save men in their sins, but as the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. Those that He led from the grave were as jewels gathered from the earth. Before they ascended to heaven, they went into Jerusalem and appeared unto many, and declared that Christ had risen from the dead, and that “we be risen with him.” [Colossians 2:12.] The sacred fact of the resurrection was attested by many infallible proofs.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 162, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 162, 1907, par. 1
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:1-4. “Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12.Colossians 2:12-13
Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1030—A Challenge to Consecrate, Decentralize, and Evangelize
13MR 217.3
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses” [Colossians 2:12, 13].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 73, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 73, 1901, par. 9
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven all your iniquities.” [Colossians 2:12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 102, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 102, 1903, par. 4
I know that you will often be disappointed. But you must not become discouraged. Commit the keeping of your souls to God, as unto a faithful Creator. This means much more than many realize. Show that you realize that at your baptism, in the presence of the heavenly universe, you pledged yourselves to be separate from the world, separate from its theories, customs, and practices. You have been “buried with Him in baptism wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.” [Colossians 2:12.] You were baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. These three great powers are pledged to be your efficiency, if you will continue to present yourself as an offering to God. “And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all your trespasses.” [Verse 13.] “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory. ... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things, put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” [Colossians 3:1-4, 12-17.] Will you not make earnest efforts to obey this instruction? We must seek the Lord daily if we would become the excellent of the earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 143, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 143, 1905, par. 3
This instruction calls for careful thought and prayerful self-examination. Those who submit to the sacred rite of baptism pledge themselves, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, to live the life of Christ. They are not to foster the natural temperament or cherish natural inclinations. They have been buried with Christ in baptism, “Wherein also,” the apostle declares, “ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins, and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him having forgiven you all your trespasses.” [Colossians 2:12, 13.]Colossians 2:12-17
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!Colossians 2:14
Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 32—The Law and the Covenants
PP 365.1
There are many who try to blend these two systems, using the texts that speak of the ceremonial law to prove that the moral law has been abolished; but this is a perversion of the Scriptures. The distinction between the two systems is broad and clear. The ceremonial system was made up of symbols pointing to Christ, to His sacrifice and His priesthood. This ritual law, with its sacrifices and ordinances, was to be performed by the Hebrews until type met antitype in the death of Christ, the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. Then all the sacrificial offerings were to cease. It is this law that Christ “took ... out of the way, nailing it to His cross.” Colossians 2:14. But concerning the law of Ten Commandments the psalmist declares, “Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.” Psalm 119:89. And Christ Himself says, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law.... Verily I say unto you”—making the assertion as emphatic as possible—“Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:17, 18. Here He teaches, not merely what the claims of God’s law had been, and were then, but that these claims should hold as long as the heavens and the earth remain. The law of God is as immutable as His throne. It will maintain its claims upon mankind in all ages.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3
Spiritual Gifts
3SG 11.1
This promise cannot be restricted to the lifetime of the chosen twelve, nor to the Christians of the first century, for it extends to the end of the world [aion] age. “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world,” to the end of the Christian age. If it be said that the Jewish age is her meant, we reply, that dispensation closed with the death of Christ, forty-two days before this commission was given. We give two passages as proof. Colossians 2:14. “Blotting out the hand-writing of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.” Daniel 9:27. “In the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and oblation to cease.” This prophecy was fulfilled at the death of the Messiah, in the middle of the last of the seventy weeks. There the Jewish typical sacrifices ceased to be of any virtue, when the great antitypical sacrifice was offered. Christ gave this commission just before His ascension, Mark 16:19, which was at least forty-two days after His crucifixion.From Eternity Past
Two Laws: Moral and Ceremonial
EP 255.3
Many try to blend these two systems, using the texts that speak of the ceremonial law to prove that the moral law has been abolished, but this is a perversion of the Scriptures. The ceremonial system was made up of symbols pointing to Christ, to His sacrifice and priesthood. This ritual law with its sacrifices and ordinances was to be performed by the Hebrews until type met antitype in the death of Christ. Then all the sacrificial offerings were to cease. It is this law that Christ “took ... out of the way, nailing it to His cross.” Colossians 2:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 51, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 51, 1901, par. 8
“And he gave to Moses when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai two tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verse 18.] Never could this be blotted out; for it was written, engraved in stone, with the finger of God. It was never against us, because God declared that we were to obey His commandments as a perpetual covenant. At His death Christ blotted out the handwriting that was against us, “and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.” [Colossians 2:14.] In every ceremony, in every sacrifice, His death had been prefigured. He was the foundation of the sacrificial system, which was to last till in His death type should meet antitype. He “abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” [Ephesians 2:15-20.]Colossians 2:15
Sons and Daughters of God
The Cross Unmasks Satan’s Government, August 25
SD 244.1
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he [Christ] made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:15.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 16—In His Temple
DA 165.5
“In three days I will raise it up.” In the Saviour’s death the powers of darkness seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Jesus came forth a conqueror. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them.” Colossians 2:15. By virtue of His death and resurrection He became the minister of the “true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 8:2. Men reared the Jewish tabernacle; men builded the Jewish temple; but the sanctuary above, of which the earthly was a type, was built by no human architect. “Behold the Man whose name is The Branch; ... He shall build the temple of the Lord; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a priest upon His throne.” Zechariah 6:12, 13.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Temple Services Lost Their Significance
CIHS 65.1
“In three days I will raise it up.” In the Saviour’s death the powers of darkness seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Jesus came forth a conqueror. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them.” Colossians 2:15. By virtue of His death and resurrection He became the minister of the “true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 8:2. Men reared the Jewish tabernacle; men builded the Jewish temple; but the sanctuary above, of which the earthly was a type, was built by no human architect. “Behold the Man whose name is The Branch;...He shall build the temple of the Lord; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a priest upon His throne.” Zechariah 6:12, 13.Homeward Bound
Lucifer Exposed, February 7
HB 54.1
Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.—Colossians 2:15.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 197, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 197, 1903, par. 8
Christ was crucified, and in His death the powers of hell seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Christ came forth a conqueror. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them.” [Colossians 2:15.] By virtue of His death and resurrection, He became the minister of the “true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched and not man.” [Hebrews 8:2.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Conqueror, February 19
JNN 58.4
“In three days I will raise it up.” In the Saviour’s death the powers of darkness seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Jesus came forth a conqueror. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them” (Colossians 2:15). By virtue of His death and resurrection He became the minister of the “true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man” (Hebrews 8:2). Human beings reared the Jewish tabernacle; humans builded the Jewish temple; but the sanctuary above, of which the earthly was a type, was built by no human architect. “Behold the Man whose name is The Branch.... He shall build the temple of the Lord; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a priest upon His throne” (Zechariah 6:12, 13).—The Desire of Ages, 165, 166.Colossians 2:16
The Review and Herald
January 7, 1896
RH January 7, 1896, par. 14
On every side we hear discussion of the subjects presented at the camp-meeting. One day as Elder Corliss stepped out of a train, the guard [conductor] stopped him with the request that he explain Colossians 2:16. They stopped, and as the crowd rushed by, the explanation was given, and from Leviticus 23:37, 38 it was shown that there were sabbaths besides the Sabbath of the Lord. Earnest requests have been sent in that some of the addresses be given in the Melbourne town hall.Colossians 2:17-19
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 28—Unity in our Work
6T 235.2
In Colossians we read: “The body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:17-19. Our work in all its lines is to demonstrate the influence of the cross. The work of God in the plan of salvation is not to be done in any disjointed way. It is not to operate at random. The plan that provided the influence of the cross provided also the methods of its diffusion. This method is simple in its principles and comprehensive in its plain, distinct lines. Part is connected with part in perfect order and relation.The Kress Collection
The Medical Missionary Work and the Gospel Ministry
KC 15.2
In Colossians we read, “The body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:17-19. Our work in all its lines is to demonstrate the influence of the cross. The work of God in the plan of salvation is not to be done in any disjointed way. It is not to operate at random. The plan that provided the influence of the cross provided also the method of its diffusion. This method is simple in its principles and comprehensive in its plain, distinct lines. Part is connected with part in perfect order and relation.The Kress Collection
The Medical Missionary Work and Gospel Ministry
KC 99.3
In Colossians we read, “The body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:17-19. Our work in all its lines is to demonstrate the influence of the cross. The work of God in the plan of salvation is not to be done in any disjointed way. It is not to operate at random. The plan that provided the influence of the cross provided also the methods of its diffusion. This method is simple in its principles and comprehensive in its plain distinct lines. Part is connected with part in perfect order and relation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 204, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 204, 1899, par. 7
In Colossians we read, “The body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body, by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” [Colossians 2:17-19.] The gospel ministry is to demonstrate the influence of the cross. The work of God in the plan of salvation is not to be done in any disjointed way; it is not to operate at random. The plan which provided the influence of the cross provided also the method of its diffusion. This method is simple in its principles and comprehensive in its plain, distinct lines. Part is connected with part in perfect order and relation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 167, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 167, 1899, par. 2
In Colossians we read, “The body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and a worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” Colossians 2:17-19. Our work in all its lines is to demonstrate the influence of the cross. The work of God in the plan of salvation is not to be done in any disjointed way. It is not to operate at random. The plan that provided the influence of the cross provided also the methods of its diffusion. This method is simple in its principles and comprehensive in its plain, distinct lines. Part is connected with part in perfect order and relation.Colossians 2:18
Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Venturing on Satan’s Ground
1TT 97.2
In this degenerate age, Satan holds control over those who depart from the right and venture upon his ground. He exercises his power upon such in an alarming manner. I was directed to these words: “Intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” Colossians 2:18. Some, I was shown, gratify their curiosity and tamper with the devil. They have no real faith in spiritualism and would start back with horror at the idea of being mediums. Yet they venture and place themselves in a position where Satan can exercise his power upon them. Such do not mean to enter deep into this work, but they know not what they are doing. They are venturing on the devil’s ground and are tempting him to control them. This powerful destroyer considers them his lawful prey and exercises his power upon them, and that against their will. When they wish to control themselves they cannot. They yielded their minds to Satan, and he will not release his claims, but holds them captive. No power can deliver the ensnared soul but the power of God in answer to the earnest prayers of His faithful followers.Colossians 2:19
Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Our Only Safety
1TT 98.2
The most licentious and corrupt are highly flattered by these satanic spirits, which they believe to be the spirits of their dead friends, and they are vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds. (Colossians 2:19): “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God,” they deny Him who ministers strength to the body, that every member may increase with the increase of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 136, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 136, 1900, par. 16
The Lord has been greatly dishonored by the spirit and attitude of the head physicians in our sanitariums [in] placing themselves first, so managing matters that they reveal a spirit entirely opposed to the prayer of Christ. There must be a continual striving for unity. We can do nothing to advance the work till Christ dwells in our hearts by faith, till His truth is our spiritual food, and we reach the highest attainment which the prayer of Christ enables us to reach. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verse 23.] To the physicians, managers, and directors in the sanitariums, I would say, On this subject of unity you cannot be too urgent. Everything which savors of selfishness in striving for the power of mastery is an offense to God. On this subject Paul writes, “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” [Colossians 2:19.] This symbolizes the relation which those in every line of work in our sanitariums should sustain to one another. And it is written also for the laborers in the gospel ministry. These are not set to pick and choose, receive or discard, the laborers as they will be inclined to do if they follow the suggestions of their hereditary and cultivated traits of character. The members of Christ’s body have not all the same office, but the different members are to be united to one Head, and each member is to be respected and is to do <his or her> individual work under the one Head.Colossians 2:20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 21, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 21, 1882, par. 9
And as we near the close of time, the demarcation between the children of light and the children of darkness will be more and more decided. They will be more and more at variance. This difference is expressed in the words of Christ, “born again,” “created anew in Christ,” “dead to the world and alive unto God.” [John 3:3; Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 2:20; Romans 6:11.] These are the walls of separation that divide the heavenly from the earthly and describe the difference between those who belong to the world and those who are chosen out of it, who are elect, precious in the sight of God.Colossians 2:21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 22, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 22, 1874, par. 3
This liquid poison is used more freely here in California than in any other state. Vineyards are plentiful. Wine and liquor can be manufactured at little expense. I rejoice that my sons are strictly temperate. Whenever you have the opportunity, sign the pledge. Even if you have already done so, put your hand and name to the pledge although you may not feel that you are yourself in the least danger. I would not object to placing my name to fifty pledges if in so doing I could influence one wavering soul that might be in danger of indulging in the social glass. We have a testimony to bear upon temperance. Wherever in our journeys we go we see men of station, talents, and ability who have felt secure in their “moderate drinking,” as they called it, but who, by moderate drinking, have educated themselves to become common drunkards. “Touch not, taste not, handle not” [Colossians 2:21], is the safe path for all to travel. Total abstinence would do great and wonderful things for society. It is the moderate use of the dangerous article which makes drunkards.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Colossians 2:8-10
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 99, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 99, 1903, par. 7
Much more may be done than has been done to secure an all-round education in physical and intellectual accomplishments. Let every student with an eye single to the glory of God, taking for his motto, “I study for time, and for eternity.” If he studies with the right purpose, he will be successful. “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy or vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the Head of all principality and power.” [Colossians 2:8-10.]