EGW WritingsEphesians 2
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Ephesians 2 in the BibleEphesians 2:1-6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 1, 1878
3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 6
Many of the church at Ligonier are yet in the bondage of Satan. They have never passed from death unto life; they have never felt the offensive character of sin. God has promised forgiveness to all who turn unto Him with hearty repentance and true faith. But those who have hitherto exerted the greatest influence in the church are strangers even to repentance. They have never known what a broken and contrite heart is. They are spiritually blind. While professedly accepting the truth, they have grasped a mere shadow and know nothing of the privileges and the liberty of the sons of God. Those who have become the children of God will give to the world some evidence of the fact. A change takes place in the disposition and character—a change from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God. The apostle says to the Ephesians: “You hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” “God who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1, 4-6.] But the class to whom I refer know nothing of such a change. They do not even comprehend the language. The child of God is easily distinguished from a presumptuous self-deceiver. The fruit of the Spirit is not a boisterous, noisy, boasting, self-confidence, but a humble joy that leads to the abasement of self.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 18a, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 18a, 1891, par. 7
“We then as workers together with him, beseech you that you receive not the grace of God in vain.” [2 Corinthians 6:1.] “And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sin; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” “But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1, 2, 4-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 194, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 194, 1900, par. 2
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: ... but God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:1, 2, 4-6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 89, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 25
“And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times part, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” [Ephesians 2:1-3.]18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 29
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Verses 4-6.]Maranatha
High Spiritual State Attainable, August 5
Mar 225.7
We need not retain one sinful propensity.... [Ephesians 2:1-6 quoted.] ...Our Father Cares
High Spiritual State Attainable, December 18
OFC 364.7
We need not retain one sinful propensity.... [Ephesians 2:1-6 quoted.] ...Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 2, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 2, 1895, par. 13
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sin: wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind: and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sin, hath quickened us together with Christ, (By grace ye are saved:) and hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-6.]Ephesians 2:1-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 106, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 106, 1896, par. 11
But why should we heed the tempter, when God has promised, “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that worketh in the children of disobedience. ... But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together, with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ.” [Ephesians 2:1, 2, 4-7.] Not in our sins, but from our sins are we saved. Through Christ we have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Hope, faith, and peace are within our reach through His merits.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 12, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 12, 1897, par. 30
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins: wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of his world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace are ye saved); and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-7.] Can this Scripture be applied to you? Here the same formation of character is presented to us as was presented to Nicodemus in the words, “Ye must be born again.” [John 3:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 42, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 42, 1898, par. 16
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins, wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God who is rich in mercy, by his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-7.]13LtMs, Lt 42, 1898, par. 18
Brother Irwin, take hold of the work of health reform. If any of the ministers have the idea that the medical missionary work is gaining undue preponderance, let them take the men who have been working in these lines with them into their fields of labor, two here and two there. Let the ministers receive these medical missionaries as they would receive Christ, and see what work they can do. I do not think they will find them dwarfs in religious experience. See if, in this way, you cannot bring some of heaven’s vital current into the churches. See if there is not a class who will grasp the education they need so much, and see if they will not bear the testimony, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (not aside from Christ,) (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together (not in independent atoms,) in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Verses 4-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 27, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 27, 1900, par. 5
I want this Scripture to be applicable to Andrew: “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of the world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-7.]Ephesians 2:1-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 18, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 18, 1894, par. 1
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins: Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” [Ephesians 2:1, 2.] When they were dead in trespasses and sins they walked according to the power of this world. Who is that? Jesus? No. It is the enemy of God. It is Satan, the prince of the power of the air. “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us.” [Verse 4.] Everyone who has tasted of the love of God and the power of the world to come, praise Him for this rich and glorious assurance of His promise.9LtMs, Ms 18, 1894, par. 2
“Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved through faith): And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Verses 5, 6.] Now what is it for? What are these blessings so richly bestowed on us for? For we are dead in trespasses and sin. But the chain was long enough for His love to reach to the very lowest depths of human woe and misery. It is in Jesus Christ that we have this blessing. What is it all for? “That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness to us through Christ Jesus.” [Verse 7.]9LtMs, Ms 18, 1894, par. 5
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:8.] We cannot even manufacture faith ourselves. “It is the gift of God.” The whole of our salvation comes through the gift of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. How glad I am. It comes from such a source that we cannot doubt it. And He is “the author”—does it stop there? Does it stop there? “The author and finisher of our faith.” [Hebrews 12:2.] Thank God! He attends us every step of the way through, if we are willing to be saved in Christ’s appointed way, through obedience to His requirements. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 104, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 104, 1893, par. 9
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we had our conversation in times past in the lusts of the flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins hath quickened us together with Christ. (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-6, 8.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 863—Christian Unity
11MR 49.3
We see that which the Lord requires of us. Shall we not put our pride and our dignity where it shall not be so easily bruised and wounded? Shall we not lay it all at the feet of Christ? Shall we not allow our minds to be sharpened by the Holy Spirit, that we may not act like children in our association with one another, but as Christ’s brave soldiers, going without the camp and bearing the reproach for His sake? “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34, 35). Shall we not, at the beginning of the year 1897, covenant with God that we will not be like the children of the wicked one, pettish, envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings, but like the tree that is known by its good fruit? Then by our unity and love for one another all men will understand that we are Christians. Shall we not cherish love, rather than strife and malice and hatred? [John 15:7-14 and Ephesians 2:1-8 quoted.]Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 82, 1898
2SAT 116.2
The apostle Paul says: [Ephesians 2:1-8, quoted].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 158, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 158, 1896, par. 5
Sunday evening, October 4, I spoke by appointment in the Ashfield church which was full of interested listeners. W. C. White escorted me to the meeting and was by appointment to attend a business meeting at Parramatta. I was left alone to conduct the meeting. A brother, elder of the church, gave out the hymns. I opened the meeting by prayer, and the Lord again gave me a most solemn message to bear to those assembled. Light came in, pouring its bright beams into my soul, and the power of God was upon me. I was speaking in reference to the short period of time in which we have to work. I read from Ephesians 2:1-8. I know that Jesus Christ was in our midst. I know that His heavenly angels were present. I felt their presence. The atmosphere seemed holy, and how I longed that everyone should breathe it in!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 39, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, par. 14
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom ye all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 79, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 79, 1897, par. 21
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lust of the flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 82, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 8
The apostle Paul says, “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lust of the flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind: and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace ye are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 11, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 11, 1899, par. 10
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]Ephesians 2:1-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 121, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 121, 1901, par. 12
“You hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins, wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ; ... and hath raised us up together; and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast.” [Ephesians 2:1-9.]Ephesians 2:1-10
Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 875—Appeal for Spiritual Ministers
11MR 102.1
[Ephesians 2:1-10; 6:10-13, quoted.] God is represented as weighing the characters, actions, and motives of men. Christ said to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). He is speaking the same words to those who know not the spirit that moves them to action. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hannah, the mother of Samuel, said, “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed” (1 Samuel 2:3). David says, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity” (Psalm 62:9). Isaiah declares, “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just” (Isaiah 26:7). And Solomon writes, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits” (Proverbs 16:2).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 16, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 16, 1895, par. 1
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he hath loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:1-10.]10LtMs, Ms 16, 1895, par. 5
Christ has promised that if we yoke up with Him we shall find peace and comfort and hope, and we know that it is true. He wants every one to be saved. “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” “God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” [John 3:16, 17.] Do we not want to be saved? We must not build our hopes upon a foundation that shall be swept away. Do we want a life that shall measure with the life of God? “By grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves.” [Ephesians 2:8.] Even when we were dead in trespasses and sins, God provided a way whereby we should be raised up and sit in heavenly places with Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come we might show forth the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness to us. Any one that does not appreciate this kindness and love, which God has bestowed upon him, is robbing his soul of heaven’s richest blessings.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 393, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, par. 3
The Son of God came to our world, and took humanity upon Himself, that fallen men and women might have the privileges of the children of God. “You hath He quickened that were dead in trespasses and sins,” the apostle writes, “wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air; the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith He hath loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved), and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace, in His kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast; for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works; which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:1-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 38, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 1
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-6.]16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 2
God desires His children to show the world what it means to sit together in heavenly places in Christ, “that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Verse 7.] This kindness He expects us to bring into our dealings with one another.16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 3
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Verses 8-10.]Ephesians 2:1-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 230, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, par. 23
“Wherefore remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” [Ephesians 2:1-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 36, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 1
“And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” [Ephesians 2:1-3.]19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 3
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Verses 4-7.]19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 5
Without Christ we can do nothing worthy of commendation. “By grace are ye saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast.” [Verses 8, 9.]19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 7
“We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Verse 10.] Those who obey these words will not do the works of Satan, causing dissension and strife. They will show what a belief of the truth has done for them.19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 8
“Wherefore remember,” Paul says, “that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is made by hands; that at that time”—when the light broke into the darkened chambers of the soul—“ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenant of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world; but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” [Verses 11-13.]19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 9
The apostle desired those to whom he was writing to remember that they must reveal in their lives the glorious change wrought in them by Christ’s transforming grace. They were to be lights in the world, by their purified, sanctified characters exerting an influence over and above the influence of satanic agencies. They were ever to remember the words, “Not of yourselves.” [Verse 8.] They could not change their own sinful hearts. And when by their efforts souls were led from the ranks of Satan to take their stand with Christ, they were not to take any credit to themselves for the transformation wrought.Ephesians 2:1-19
Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
Diary, Tramelan, Switzerland, May 22, 1886
3MR 235.1
Ephesians 2:1-19; 4:1-6. Now if we had a most splendid temple and our hearts were not right it would amount to nothing. Our greatest anxiety should be in regard to our spiritual condition. We must educate our children that God meets with His people and direct their thoughts heavenward.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 49, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 49, 1886, par. 16
Ephesians 2:1-19; 4:1-6. Now if we had a most splendid temple and our hearts were not right, it would amount to nothing. Our greatest anxiety should be in regard to our spiritual condition. We must educate our children that God meets with His people and direct their thoughts heavenward.Ephesians 2:1-22
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 21—Bethesda and the Sanhedrin
DA 203.2
Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. There are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” Ephesians 2:1. He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.DA 209.1
Israel had chosen their own ways. They had not builded according to the pattern; but Christ, the true temple for God’s indwelling, molded every detail of His earthly life in harmony with God’s ideal. He said, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. So our characters are to be builded “for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:22. And we are to “make all things according to the pattern,” even Him who “suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” Hebrews 8:5; 1 Peter 2:21.DA 209.3
The Saviour continued: “What things soever He [the Father] doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.... As the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom He will.” The Sadducees held that there would be no resurrection of the body; but Jesus tells them that one of the greatest works of His Father is raising the dead, and that He Himself has power to do the same work. “The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.” The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead. Christ declares that even now the power which gives life to the dead is among them, and they are to behold its manifestation. This same resurrection power is that which gives life to the soul “dead in trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1. That spirit of life in Christ Jesus, “the power of His resurrection,” sets men “free from the law of sin and death.” Philippians 3:10; Romans 8:2. The dominion of evil is broken, and through faith the soul is kept from sin. He who opens his heart to the Spirit of Christ becomes a partaker of that mighty power which shall bring forth his body from the grave.The Medical Missionary
May 1, 1899
MMis May 1, 1899, par. 8
Study carefully the first chapter of Ephesians, and let your understanding become enlightened. If you would build for time and for eternity, obey the laws of health. Place yourself in right relation to God as his property, caring for the wonderful husbandry and building of God. In nowise is this to be neglected. Ephesians 2:1-10, 19-22.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 116, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 116, 1898, par. 11
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ... Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens 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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:1-10, 19-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 56, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 56, 1902, par. 19
“In Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having 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; 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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:13-22.]17LtMs, Lt 56, 1902, par. 21
“You hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Verses 1-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 270, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 270, 1903, par. 15
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:1-10.]18LtMs, Lt 270, 1903, par. 17
“He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us.” “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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verses 14, 18-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 141, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 141, 1899, par. 6
“That in the ages to come, he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness to us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ... Now therefore we are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens of the saints, and of the household of light; and are built upon the foundations of the apostle and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together, groweth into an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:1, 2, 4-10, 19-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 25, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 25, 1888, par. 4
Tuesday morning spoke at the sanitarium from Ephesians.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 63, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 41
Encourage the human agent to look to and seek for wisdom from God in most earnest prayer, then he will learn as no human voice or human counsel can teach him the way of the Lord. He will see [how] the transgression of the law caused the price of the blood of the Son of the infinite God to redeem him. He will hate the sins that wounded Jesus. He will preserve a contrite heart as he views Jesus as a compassionate tender High Priest. Please read Ephesians the second and third chapters. Here is a lesson for us all to study. Philippians 2:1-16; Colossians 1:25-29; Hebrews 2:17, 18. This whole chapter is of great importance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 9, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 9, 1896, par. 11
All need to experience the converting power of truth. Then men who are in the service of God in their several positions of trust will learn of Christ as superior. Having men who are their equals under their direction, they must begin at the beginning and have the heart right with God through the deep, new, creating power of His grace. Then every man will study the interests of the man with whom he is associated, and the spirit of kindness and Christian love exercised by the men in authority will be reflected back upon others. “All the building, fitly framed together” will grow “unto a holy temple in the Lord.” [Ephesians 2:21.] The church would become a living representation of Christ. The world would not so often be encouraged in its ungodly deeds by the example of men who claim to believe the truth and to be followers of Jesus Christ, but who hold the truth in unrighteousness because they are not daily converted, heart and soul, to the truth.11LtMs, Lt 9, 1896, par. 12
With many spiritual life is not a living, active principle, because they are not in communion with the living God. I entreat of you to read (Ephesians 2), for this chapter was pointed out to me as applicable to you. Also read chapter 4:1-3 and chapter 6. Supposing all who are associated together in the Office study this chapter. Here is presented the duty of servants: “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eye service, as men pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.” [Verses 5-9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 58, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 58, 1898, par. 18
The present term of school will, we sincerely hope, be in advance of the first term, as far as higher education is concerned. The Bible studies will be most intensely interesting. Students are to be taught to understand that Book which should ever be presented as the Book to study. The assertion that there are dark, mysterious, and incomprehensible things in the Word, things hard to be understood, perplexing and uncertain, is a false one. Please read the first, second, and third chapters of Ephesians.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 105, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, par. 20
My Instructor read the second chapter of Ephesians and then made a strong appeal that every effort should be made to guard against connecting with the institutions, to be established in Washington, men who have not a deep and thorough knowledge of the truth. There is danger of bringing in men who seem to be well qualified for some lines of work, but who, before they are placed in important positions in the work of God, need to show in their lives an entire reformation of character. In every business transaction there is to be a strict observance of the Word of God, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Leviticus 19:18.]19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, par. 21
“And you did He make alive, when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins, ... doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.” [Ephesians 2:1, 3.] This evil spirit will reveal itself in every one who has not been made alive through the power of Christ. But we cannot allow this influence to work as leaven in any of our educational centers.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 61a, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 61a, 1906, par. 33
These words I was speaking before a perplexed company just before I called upon them to take their stand on the right side. If some one chooses another position, let him alone. Labor for the class of people who have never had the evidences of truth. So long as men hold fast to men, and believe men in the place of the Word of God, you cannot help them. You are working against principalities and powers, as is represented in Ephesians.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 190, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 190, 1899, par. 8
W. C. White opened the meeting with prayer. Surely the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. He poured out his petition with great fervor, making his supplications unto God to receive this humble home of worship from His people, who had done what they could to aid in building it with money and work. Surely the Lord did manifest Himself to us and His blessing came upon us in rich currents of love. I spoke to the people from Ephesians. The Lord gave me freedom.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 186, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 186, 1899, par. 14
I find myself comfortably resting in Sister Tuxford’s pleasant room, but it pains me to see every space filled with little knickknacks and pictures of faces. Oh, I wish it were not so. I wish it were otherwise. We had our season of prayer in the parlor and the Lord was very nigh unto us. Elder Haskell spoke to the people at Summer Hill in the forenoon. A horse and carriage was hired for us, that we could attend the meeting one mile and a half from Summer Hill without my being under the necessity of riding in the train. I was surprised to see the house full at Summer Hill, and the Lord helped me to speak. I read (Ephesians 1) and portions of the second chapter and the Lord gave me words to speak to the interested listeners. I am thankful, so thankful, that the Lord manifests His power and His grace unto His commandment-keeping people. Many testimonies were borne and the Spirit of the Lord was in the meeting. A solemn sense of the presence of God was in the meeting.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 80, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 80, 1902, par. 1
I have read your last letter to me, and the copy of your letter to Brother Shireman. I hope that Brother Shireman will listen to the counsel of his brethren. This will be his safety and his strength. The Lord has not qualified any one of us to bear the burden of the work alone. He has associated together men of different minds, that they may counsel with and assist one another. In this way the deficiency in the experience and the abilities of one is supplied by the experience and the abilities of another. We should all study carefully the instruction given in Corinthians and Ephesians regarding our relation to one another as members of the body of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 59, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 10
The second chapter of Ephesians was also presented as containing instructive lessons for those who are not working in harmony. The apostle says: “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having 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.17LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 11
“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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verses 4-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 189, 1903
St. Helena, California
Sabbath Morning, June 20, 1903
Previously unpublished.
(Talk by Mrs. E. G. White, St. Helena Sanitarium Chapel)
18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 1
[First portion missing.]18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 2
Now this is all blended, and we want, every soul of us, to improve the talents that God has given us, our capabilities. We want to be advancing in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and what did He do? He laid off His royal robe, He laid off His royal crown, He stepped down from His position of height and dignity, He kept that dignity, and yet He stepped down from the magisterial throne, the Majesty of heaven, the King of Glory, and clothed His divinity with humanity.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 3
How and why? Why, He must come now to stand at the head of humanity, that humanity might touch humanity. He was the Son of humanity. The Son of God condescended to become the Son of humanity, that He might encircle the human race with His long human arm. With His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 4
Why did He not bring with Him the cloud of angels? Why did He not have legions of angels that should encircle right around Him, to let them all understand who He was, that He was the ruler over angels in the heavenly courts? But, no. He must stand as humanity stands, to bear the afflictions that humanity bore; to be tempted in all points like as humanity is tempted. And then what? Why, then He understands the affliction of humanity. When He was crucified, suffering the most shameful death. He was both mocked and derided, and the heavenly host watching the scene. How quickly they would have broken their ranks and dispersed all His persecutors; but, no. The death He bore for us makes it possible for us to be partakers of the divine nature. He was partaker of human nature, and all judgment is to be given into His hand.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 5
I look and see how difficult it is for us to bear the trials and disappointments of this life. Certainly we have to have these trials, and if we bear them correctly, if we bear them as children of God, just as surely shall we stand before God on vantage-ground, because we remember that Christ has passed over the ground before us and left us His example.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 6
Now we want to work the works of Christ. He was the great Medical Missionary that stood in our world. He went from place to place, and they would bring the sick, and He would heal them; and then they would beg of Him, Oh, stay with us, stay with us. We want you with us. But no, He said, I must go to other cities and other towns; and I must preach the gospel to all people. Well, that is just what we have to do.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 7
We cannot sit down in a do-nothing position, thinking that we will enter the courts of the Lord. We have been carried at every step, and have been comforted and encouraged, and will we feel it our privilege to feel just as bad as we can feel when any difficulty comes? We have no right to feeling that way. Why? Because we have a big hope in the gospel; because we have a Friend at court; we have a risen Saviour that proclaimed over the rest sepulcher of Joseph, I am the resurrection and the life.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 8
Now Christ came to our earth as a babe in Bethlehem, coming up as a child, and testifying against the lie of Satan that it was not possible for any man of the fallen race to overcome and become spotless, and keep God’s Commandments. But Christ took human nature, and kept the commandments of God. It is some consequence to us what behavior we have in this life, in this world. It is of very great consequence to us what character we are forming, what kind of a building we are making.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 9
We must be in a position before God that we shall imitate the life of Christ. How many search the Scriptures as they ought to search them? How many put in the place of the Scriptures foolish reading, and when they want to be conversant with the Scriptures, why, get as much of it as you can by heart, in their memory, but that is not enough. You want to make the application of it to the soul. It is a life-and-death question with us. It is nothing to be trifled with.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 10
If you enter heaven, you will never set your stakes that you are going to be worldly, and you are going to have all the conveniences, and you are going to have all that you desire in this life, and then you will have a transport to the future immortal life. No, you will do just as Christ did. “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. So shall he be My disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.] The Lord of life and glory humbled Himself, and the Lord requires that everyone that shall enter in through the gates into the city of God shall be a partaker with Christ of His self-denial and of His self-sacrifice. And what then? A crown of life will He bestow upon everyone that will live the life of self-denial and self-sacrifice.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 11
We have an individual, personal work to carry on for ourselves. We want to learn all that it is possible for us to learn as to how to perfect Christian character. Every one of us have had talents given us. Every man, every living soul, has talents that have been entrusted to him from God. He is to improve those talents to the very best account, and he is to bring all the sunshine, all the pleasantness, all the agreeableness of the person in words, in speech; for that is a talent. There are to be no cross speeches, no hasty, passionate speeches.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 12
Every one of us, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, is to have a fitness of character that we shall bring joy, and that we shall bring happiness into the lives of others. No man (and that means no woman; it covers both) liveth unto himself. And yet we have, every one of us, our part to act in the great firm. Here is God’s firm in the world, and we must act our part if we shall have the city of God for our mansions—shall have mansions there.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 13
Just before He left His people, Christ did not talk of His sufferings, and of what He had to endure and the agony; He did not present that before His disciples; but He told them the bare facts, that He was to be tried and be crucified. But, He said, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me.” [John 14:1.]18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 14
If we work right away from Christ, and do not try to assimilate to Christ here, and we do not try to make things pleasant, and to bring heaven right into our homes here below, we are neglecting the duty of every family that lives on the face of the earth. Do you think every family had obeyed the commandments of God, you would hear of bloodshed, that you would hear of robbery, that you would hear next of God’s punishments that come upon the earth, as they will come, as they have come? God is in earnest with us. He invites us to come to Him, and He says if we come to Him, He will in no wise cast us out.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 15
[Portion missing because of change of transcribers.]18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 16
Be determined that you will have it, and then you that you can use your talent of speech to the glory of God. The very consciousness that you are trying to obey Christ will be health to your soul. But the sense that you commit sin is just a scourge to you. Those sins are always scourges; but leave off your sins, return to Christ. He will give you health, He will give you health of mind, He will give you physical strength, He will give you mental power. He will give you that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 17
Well, don’t any one of you think that God is going to hire you here below to do some great work and give you the very highest wages to do that work. He does not employ you in any such a way. If there is a place that you can come in to fill, go into that place, and then you say, I will do the very best I can in every place where I am placed, but I want to have the good works of mercy. I want the good works of the love of God to attend all that I shall do.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 18
I want a living connection with the Lamb of God, who said, If you follow Me, deny thyself, take up thy cross, and follow Me. This is the very thing that we have to do—deny self, and lift these crosses that seem to us to be awfully belittling to our dignity. Well, we had to do it in order to build these institutes. We had to do it in order to provide schools, so that we might educate the youth. We had to do it in order to have publishing houses, where the truth might be prepared and go out to the people. God calls only for every self-denying and helping hand that will unite with Him in self-sacrifice. For our sakes He became poor, and you are called and invited for His sake to be willing to become poor, and that you may indeed deny self in order that you may be a partaker with Christ of His sufferings.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 19
Now we invite those that are here, the nurses that are about the sick, to carry pleasantness, carry peace in your countenance. Pray to God that He will help you that when you will come to the sick there will be a reviving as they look at your pleasantness. A pleasant look, a pleasant word will go a great ways. Well, we want to be what?—God’s missionary helping hands. All who unite as gospel missionaries in this world will have to deny self, and take up the cross. Well, we have got to do this. It is the only way, and there is a world to save. God help us, is my prayer. God help us.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 20
I have just begun to say a few words to you; but I want to tell you, the Lord is in earnest with us. He is in earnest with us. You never can begin to suffer nor to understand the depth and breadth of the humiliation that our Saviour went through. There is no one of us that can ever go through that. And then the priests and the rulers stood, while He was hanging in agony on the cross, saying Oh, if you are the Son of man, come down, and we will believe on you. But no, no, He was to bear all this suffering in our behalf, that no one that lives on the face of the earth can say He never suffered as I suffered; He doesn’t know how to suffer; He doesn’t know how to pity us; for He never suffered as I suffered.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 21
But He has gone through every phase of temptation, every phase of suffering, and I want you to have sympathy with my Lord. I want you to have that love for Him that you will try to imitate His life of character; because He wants you. He wants to put a crown of glory on your heads. He wants to throw back the gates of the city of God, that all the nations that have kept the truth may enter in. He pronounces His blessing upon them as they enter in, and they cast at His feet their glittering crowns that He has placed upon their heads, and they touch the golden harps, and fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 22
Well, I love Him; I love Him, because He first loved me. I love Him, because He took me right out of my despair and He set me at eleven years of age to praise His name. I have followed on in His footsteps just as fast as I could, in order that I might have a home with Him in His kingdom. I do not say that I am perfect in Christian character; but I am following on; I am trying to attain. I shall strive to attain every day, I hope, in this life, to know more of Christ, to know still more of Christ, so that He can say, Well done, of all that enter in, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Well, now, that is what He wants us all to do.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 23
I mean to be there. I want you to be there. I will praise Him here on the earth. We have too little praise and thanksgiving and honor that we bestow upon God, and had we not better begin to praise Him; had we not better begin to honor and glorify Him? Shall we not thank Him here upon the earth? God help us that we may honor God by praising Him. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. Now let us every one strive to be overcomers.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 24
Just a verse I want to read here. Ephesians 2:16, 17 quoted. Now we calculate we will do just the same—everyone will help some other one.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 25
“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.” Verses 18, 19. He is speaking to the brethren that are right before Him.18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 26
“And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Verses 20-22. “Together.” Now you see they are fitly framed, every one matches the work of the other and “groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord, in whom all parts are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 27
Now here are the buildings; here are the personalities; and these personalities are to be the habitation of God in the Spirit. And when you have the grace of Christ in the heart, you will have that peace that is beyond any comparison. You will have peace and light and joy and happiness, and, at last, everlasting life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 109, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 109, 1899, par. 20
Again he says: “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit which now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast, for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God had before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:1-6, 8-10.]14LtMs, Ms 109, 1899, par. 21
“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 cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the spirit.” [Verses 16-22.]14LtMs, Ms 109, 1899, par. 25
No advice or sanction is given in the Word of God to those who believe the third angel’s message to lead them to suppose that they can draw apart. This you may settle with yourselves forever. It is the devisings of unsanctified minds that would encourage a state of disunion. The sophistry of men may appear right in their own eyes, but it is not truth and righteousness. “In Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; ... that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross.” Christ is the uniting link in the golden chain which binds believers together in God. There must be no separating in this great testing time. The people of God are, “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 cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord.” [Ephesians 2:13, 14, 16, 19-21.]14LtMs, Ms 109, 1899, par. 26
The children of God constitute one united whole in Christ, who presents His cross as the center of attraction. All who believe are one in Him. Human feelings will lead men to take the work into their own hands and the building thus becomes disproportionate. The Lord therefore employs a variety of gifts to make the building symmetrical. Not one feature of the truth is to be hidden or made of little account. God cannot be glorified unless the building, “fitly framed together, groweth into an holy temple in the Lord.” [Verse 21.] A great subject is here comprehended, and those who understand the truth for this time must take heed how they hear and build and how they educate others to practice.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 56, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 34
“And you hath he quickened,” said Paul to the Ephesians, “who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom we all had our conversation in times past, in the lust of the flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. For God, who is rich in mercy for the great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved): and hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that is the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ.” [Ephesians 2:1-7.]13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 36
“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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth into an holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:14, 17-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 200, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 200, 1908, par. 7
To one party who had been working on the side of the enemy, these words were spoken: “And you hath He quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Jesus Christ.” [Ephesians 2:1-7.]23LtMs, Lt 200, 1908, par. 10
“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ... Now therefore we 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; in whom the building fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:8-10, 19-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 139, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 139, 1898, par. 47
“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit which now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lust of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, with his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]13LtMs, Lt 139, 1898, par. 48
“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; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom we also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verses 19-22.] This is the provision God has made for man. But in the divine plan the co-operation of divine energy and human endeavor is required.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 94, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 9
Then the words of the apostle will be applicable, “And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast.” [Ephesians 2:1-9.]13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 10
Thoughts of self-exaltation are not to be cherished, but subdued and cut away from the religious experience. All our good works are dependent on a power outside of ourselves. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Verse 10.] Everything of earth which attracts and absorbs the mind, diverting the moral powers from Him who is the source and strength of all genuine religious experience, counterworks Christ’s purpose of purifying and elevating the human soul.13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 11
“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 cornerstone.” [Verses 18-20.] As saints of God we are to be builded together to compose a holy temple for God. As there are different materials in a building, each article representing the parts united together, so it is with the church of God. Christ is the foundation and cornerstone which unites all the parts of the building. Every human being who has consecrated himself to Christ has his place in the building. He is connected with others to make the building, the church, a perfect whole. But he is not the head or foundation. Christ is to be all and in all.13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 12
Self, and selfish customs, habits, and thoughts, will wrestle for the mastery. But self must be overcome. The symmetry of the building cannot be as the Master Builder designs unless every part fills its appointed place. United together in peace, the members of the church make a complete whole, “and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verses 20-22.]Ephesians 2:2
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 17, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 17, 1893, par. 13
One may say, If I were wealthy what I would do for the cause. How do you know that you could stand the test? Your inquiry should be, Is it well with my soul? Christ has conquered, he has made the way open. We must overcome through the merits of Jesus Christ. 1 John 2:1. How thankful I am for this. Christ came because Satan’s power was so great. Ephesians 2:2. The Majesty of heaven came to bear the test in our behalf. He redeemed Adam’s disgraceful failure. With His divine arm He grasped the throne of the Infinite One.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 10a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 10a, 1898, par. 11
Men need to wake up on this subject. Says the apostle, “If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” [Romans 8:13.] To live after the flesh is to allow the sensual appetites to rule the being. “In time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” [Ephesians 2:2.]Ephesians 2:2-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 70, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 70, 1893, par. 3
If the affections center upon minor objects, we show before the heavenly angels, before the world, that God is not supreme with us. “Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:2-6, 8.]Ephesians 2:3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 38, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 38, 1893, par. 12
Messages are coming to us from the servants of Jesus. Warnings are given to awaken the people from their carnal security, and they are exhorted to examine their own faith and hope to see if it is in accordance with the Word of God. The warning is addressed to the people, “Be not high-minded, but fear.” [Romans 11:20.] Paul writes to the Hebrews, “Let us therefore fear, lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.” [Hebrews 4:1.] “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” [Romans 8:13.] To live after the flesh is to allow the appetites and passions of the flesh to rule us, to let our tongues and our tastes run in the same way as do those of the unbelieving world. Self is the idol we worship. “Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” [Ephesians 2:3.]Ephesians 2:4-5
Our Father Cares
We Are Objects of Infinite Love, October 31
OFC 316.1
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ. Ephesians 2:4, 5.The Upward Look
We Are Objects of Infinite Love, December 29
UL 377.1
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ. Ephesians 2:4, 5.Ephesians 2:4-6
In Heavenly Places
“In Heavenly Places”—Our Exalted Privilege, January 1
HP 7.1
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 147, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 147, 1896, par. 3
My dear children, my heart goes out to you with great tenderness. I would be glad to see you, my children. Eight thousand miles of the waters of the Pacific Ocean lie between us but, thank God, we can send up our prayers to our heavenly Father. We are made near through Jesus Christ. He that is precious to your soul is also very precious to my soul. Oh Edson, I love you as my son, I love Emma as my daughter, but I have a stronger love than any natural ties can be. We are made one on Christ Jesus. We may never meet again, “but God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved,) and hath raised us together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:4-6.] Blessed hope! I am so thankful that the Lord will accept my children through the merits of Jesus Christ to be laborers together with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 125, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 125, 1896, par. 6
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith he hath loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved); and hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:4-6.] What a wonderful work the Lord is willing to do for you if you will give up your own will to the will of Him who has paid the price of redemption. All you have to do is to seek the Lord while He may be found, to call upon Him while He is near. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 96, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 96, 1897, par. 1
You are dear to the heart of God. He loves you and will not leave you to perish. I know His everlasting arms are beneath thee. Am writing letter for you. John 14:1, 27, 18; Hebrews 2:17, 18; Ephesians 2:4-6; 1 John 1:9.Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1002—The Baker Letter
13MR 25.3
When a minister is appointed to a certain work, he is not to consider that he must ask the president of the conference how many days he shall labor in a certain locality, but he must seek wisdom from One who has appointed him his work, One who promised to give wisdom and unerring judgment, who giveth liberally and upbraideth not. He must carefully consider every part of the vineyard apportioned to him, and discern by the grace given what he shall do, and what he shall not do. Circumstances will arise, which, if carefully studied, with humility and faith, seeking wisdom of God, will make you a wise and successful laborer [Ephesians 1:17, 19, quoted.] Read this whole chapter, my brother. The prayer of Paul was for the Ephesians that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, might give unto them the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. [Ephesians 1:19; 2:4-6, quoted.]Reflecting Christ
Contemplating Heavenly Things, October 31
RC 318.1
God ... hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-6.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Neglect by the Ministry
6T 299.4
Why, I inquire, are some of our ministerial brethren so far behind in proclaiming the exalted theme of temperance? My brethren, the word given to you is: “Take hold of the work of health reform; go forward.” If you think that the medical missionary work is assuming undue proportions, take the men who have been working in these lines with you into your fields of labor, two here and two there. Receive these medical missionaries as you would receive Christ, and see what work they can do. You will not find them dwarfs in religious experience. See if in this way you cannot bring much of heaven’s vital current into the churches. See if there are not some who will grasp the education they so much need, and bear the testimony: “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-6. Our great need is unity, perfect oneness in God’s work.That I May Know Him
True Christian Culture, July 11
TMK 198.1
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-6.This Day With God
Imitating the Pattern, October 9
TDG 291.1
God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-6.The Review and Herald
January 14, 1902
RH January 14, 1902, par. 4
Why, I inquire, are some of our ministerial brethren so far behind in proclaiming the exalted theme of temperance? My brethren, the word given to you is, “Take hold of the work of health reform; go forward.” If you think that the medical missionary work is assuming undue proportions, take the men who have been working in these lines with you into your fields of labor, two here, and two there. Receive these medical missionaries as you would receive Christ, and see what work they can do. You will not find them dwarfs in religious experience. See if in this way you cannot bring much of heaven’s vital current into the churches. See if there are not some who will grasp the education they so much need, and bear the testimony, “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved), and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-6. Our great need is unity, perfect oneness in God’s work.Ephesians 2:4-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 8, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 36
The prayer of Paul was for the Ephesians that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, might give unto them the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe? “According to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in heavenly places.” [Verses 17, 19, 20.] “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sin, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:4-6.]10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 37
This is, and has been, your privilege, and the privilege of every shepherd of the flock. As the shepherd is to go after the lost sheep, he is not to have merely a casual interest, but an earnest travail for souls. This calls for most earnest heart searching, most earnest, prayerful seeking for God, in order that we may know him and the power of his grace. “That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us, through Christ Jesus.” [Verse 7.]God’s Amazing Grace
Unsearchable Riches, June 28
AG 187.4
“God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7).My Life Today
The Exceeding Riches of His Grace, April 6
ML 100.1
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7.Bible Training School
December 1, 1907
BTS December 1, 1907, par. 1
The working out of the great plan of redemption, as manifest in the history of this world, is not only to man, but to angels, a revelation of the Father. Here is seen the work of Satan in the degradation and ruin of the race by sin, and, on the other hand, the work of God in man’s recovery and uplifting through the grace of Christ. Every soul that develops a righteous character and withstands the power of the wicked one is a testimony to the falsehood of Satan’s charges against divine government. Through the eternal ages the exaltation of the redeemed will be a testimony to God’s love and mercy. This is set forth in the touching and beautiful words of the apostle Paul. He says that “we are a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men.” 1 Corinthians 4:9. “God who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness toward us, through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Inestimable Gift
2TT 326.2
“God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 41, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 29
Through the eternal ages the exaltation of the redeemed will be a testimony to God’s love and mercy. This is set forth in the touching and beautiful words of the apostle Paul. He says that “we are a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men.” 1 Corinthians 4:9. “God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 2:4-7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 45, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 45, 1902, par. 4
We need to lay hold on the promises of God’s Word, appropriating them to ourselves. “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace.” [Ephesians 2:4-7.] Grace, rich grace, is for us. Let us not allow our unbelief to keep us in a state of hesitancy and cause us to lose the blessing that we might have gained. God’s grace is given to those who will appreciate and use it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 49, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 49, 1902, par. 2
“According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 1:4; 2:4-7.]Ephesians 2:4-8
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 7—Like Unto Leaven
COL 98.2
The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:4-8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 48, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 48, 1895, par. 8
When the human being receives daily spiritual food from God, a blessed union is formed between earthly and heavenly intelligences. The believer is sustained by the life of Christ, as the branch is nourished by the sap which flows through the parent stock. Continually he receives blessings from the hand of God, and continually he imparts them. “God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work,” “being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” [2 Corinthians 9:8, 11.] “God, who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved,) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:4-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 177, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 177, 1897, par. 100
There is not any excuse for our unbelief, not any excuse for a feeble, dwarfed spirituality. We must grow in grace, grow in spiritual knowledge, grow in greater intelligence. Our resources are simply without limit, for when God gave Christ, the great gift of heaven, He gave all the treasures of heaven. Then let us honor God who hath made every provision for us that we shall not falter, that we shall not fail or be discouraged. Let us press forward. The mark of the prize of the high calling is before us. “Being justified freely”—not stintedly—“by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:24. Ephesians 2:4-8. Titus 3:5-8.Ephesians 2:4-10
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 69, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 69, 1901, par. 19
There is hope for us in God. He is faithful who has promised. His purpose for us will be fulfilled if we but do our part. “God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:4-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 24, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 24, 1905, par. 9
“God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He has loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:4-10.] Not outside of them, seeking spot and stain in some one else, in order to vindicate one’s own superiority. Those who do this are in need of genuine conversion. They are accusers of the brethren, and unless they are converted, they will never help any one. They have lost their first love; and unless they repent, their candlestick will be moved out of its place. Let them work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, remembering that it is God who works in them, to will and to do of His good pleasure.Ephesians 2:4-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 17, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 17, 1899, par. 11
“Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenant of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world; but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” [Ephesians 2:4-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 116, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 116, 1903, par. 19
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made with hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenant of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. But now in Jesus Christ ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” [Ephesians 2:4-13.]Ephesians 2:4-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 108, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 108, 1899, par. 4
All these gifts are to be blended in the work of building upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets. Jesus Christ Himself is the chief corner stone, “in whom all the building fitly framed together, groweth into an holy temple in the Lord.” [Ephesians 2:20, 21.] “Fitly framed together.” Study these words, and seek to understand all that they comprehend. “Fitly framed together,” each acting his respective part unitedly. Thus we grow “into an holy temple in the Lord.” Have a care how you build. Take heed to the admonitions of the Lord. We are to work unitedly to one end, “till we all come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:13.]14LtMs, Ms 108, 1899, par. 5
“For by grace are ye saved, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast.” Whence comes our power to work? “We are his workmanship, created in Jesus Christ unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ... God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, ... and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:8-10, 4-6.]14LtMs, Ms 108, 1899, par. 27
But there is love in our churches. There are those who love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves. Their prayers and their alms come up before God as a memorial. The Lord does not lose sight of them. He is watching those who are walking in the light as fast as they receive the light. They are the objects of His special care. The law of Christ’s kingdom is in every respect to be carried out in this world. The inspired apostle declares, “Ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints and of the household of God.” [Ephesians 2:19.] “For our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour our Lord Jesus Christ, who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his most glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.” [Philippians 3:20, 21.]Ephesians 2:4-22
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 142, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 142, 1899, par. 6
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ... 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; in whom the whole building fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord, in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:4-10, 19-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 12, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 5
God has a purpose for each one. “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:4-10.] In these words Christ shows us what we may become in striving to fulfil God’s purpose for us.17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 6
“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 cornerstone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verses 18-22.]Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers
Chapter 54—The Preciousness of Christ to His Followers
TM 387.1
I felt sorry when I read your letter breathing so depressed a spirit. Read Ephesians 2:4-22. This scripture has been given me for you. Read it carefully, as you never read it before. It is full of instruction. Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith means the contemplation of Christ, beholding Christ, ever cherishing the dear Saviour as our very best and honored Friend, so that we would not in any action grieve and offend Him. We have always this promise to comfort and help us: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”Special Testimonies for Ministers and Workers—No. 9
Chapter 8—The Preciousness of Christ toHis Followers
SpTA09 75.1
I felt sorry when I read your letter breathing so depressed a spirit. Read Ephesians 2:4-22. This scripture has been given me for you. Read it carefully, as you never read it before. It is full of instruction. Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith means the contemplation of Christ, beholding Christ, ever cherishing the dear Saviour as our very best and honored friend, so that we would not in any action grieve and offend him. We have always this promise to comfort and help us, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 40, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 40, 1896, par. 1
I am uncertain where to address Sister Wessels Senior. I am under the impression that you wrote me that she had returned to South Africa. I send the enclosed letter to you for her. You may read it before giving it to her, then I need not repeat to you that which I have written. I shall send a copy to Battle Creek also, so that wherever she is, she may receive it. I felt sorry when I read your letter breathing so depressed a spirit. Read Ephesians 2:4-22. This Scripture has been given me for you. Read it carefully, as you never read it before. It is full of instruction. Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith means the contemplation of Christ, beholding Christ, ever cherishing the dear Saviour as our very best and honored Friend, so that we would not in any action grieve and offend Him. We have always this promise to comfort and help us, “For by grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Verse 8.]11LtMs, Lt 40, 1896, par. 2
Bear in mind, the time will never come when the hellish shadow of Satan will not be cast athwart our pathway to obstruct our faith and eclipse the light emanating from the presence of Jesus, the Sun of Righteousness. Our faith must not stagger, but cleave through that shadow. We have an experience that is not to be buried in the darkness of doubt. Our faith is not in feeling, but in truth. The inspired apostle speaks of our being built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone. The church of Christ is represented as being builded for “an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Verse 22.] If we are rooted and grounded in love, we shall be “able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love of God, which passeth knowledge.” [Ephesians 3:18, 19.] O, precious possibilities and encouragement! In the human heart cleansed from all moral impurity dwells the precious Saviour, ennobling, sanctifying the whole nature, and making the man a temple for the Holy Spirit.Ephesians 2:5
Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Abrahamic—The Covenant of Grace
1MR 110.1
Now my sister, if it were not possible for human beings under the Abrahamic covenant to keep the commandments of God, every soul of us is lost. The Abrahamic covenant is the covenant of grace. “By grace ye are saved” (Ephesians 2:5). “He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name” (John 1:11, 12). Disobedient children? No, obedient to all His commandments. If it were not possible for us to be commandment keepers, then why does He make the obedience to His commandments the proof that we love Him? Letter 16, 1892, pp. 2, 3. (To Brother and Sister Holland, November 10, 1892).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 8
Now my sister, if it were not possible for human beings under the Abrahamic covenant to keep the commandments of God, every soul of us is lost. The Abrahamic covenant is the covenant of grace. “By grace ye are saved.” [Ephesians 2:5.] “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:11, 12.] Disobedient children? No, obedient to all His commandments.Ephesians 2:6
In Heavenly Places
“In Heavenly Places”
HP 6.1
“In heavenly places”—can it beThis glorious promise is for me?
Raised up by Heaven’s boundless might,
To sit with Christ in realms of light
In heavenly places?
HP 6.2
O wondrous love, that paid the priceRedemption claimed, by sacrifice
Of God’s own Son! What bitter cup
My Saviour drank to lift me up
To heavenly places!
HP 6.3
Up from a life defiled by sin,Washed in His blood, made pure within,
Robed in His righteousness, freed of blame,
Fitted to bear my Saviour’s name
In heavenly places.
HP 6.4
Joint heir with Christ, I sit with Him,I walk and talk and work with Him;
Above this world, sin’s battlefield,
I rest in Him, His truth my shield,
In heavenly places—
In Christ Jesus.
—Bessie Mount
Our High Calling
“I Tasted the Lord’s Goodness,” November 15
OHC 325.4
Christ says, I am at thy right hand to help thee. What more could we in our weakness desire? Shall we go to one another with all our troubles, telling human beings the temptations we have and how weak we are? The Saviour is standing at our right hand, offering to lift us up, that we may “sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:6. But so often we turn away from Him and His promises, and tell our troubles to those who, like ourselves, are but mortal, with troubles which only Christ can bear.... Let us no longer dishonor God by turning from Him to human inefficiency....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 91, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, par. 11
We accept too low a standard of spirituality. If we would grasp the hand of infinite power, we would reach a much higher standard. Christ says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] What more could we in our weakness desire? Shall we go to one another with all our troubles, telling human beings the temptations we have and how weak we are? The Saviour is standing at our right hand, offering to lift us up, that we may “sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:6.] But so often we turn away from Him and His promises, and tell our troubles to those who, like ourselves, are but mortal, with troubles which only Christ can bear.Ephesians 2:6-7
Education
Chapter 35—The School of the Hereafter
Ed 308.4
Even now, “unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places” is “made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God.” And He “hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places: ... that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 3:10, R.V.; 2:6, 7.Heaven
Chapter 16—Heaven Is a School
Hvn 154.1
Even now, “unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places” is “made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God.” And He “hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places: ... that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 3:10, RV; 2:6, 7.Ephesians 2:7
God’s Amazing Grace
The Reaping, November 25
AG 337.1
That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:7.From Heaven With Love
Treated As We Deserve
HLv 15.4
The exaltation of the redeemed will be an eternal testimony to God’s mercy. “In the ages to come” He will “show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” in order that “the manifold wisdom of God” might be made known to “the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 2:7; 3:10, RV.From Heaven With Love
Sacrifice Rewarded
HLv 158.4
Before asking them to leave their fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter’s boat had been richly repaid. He who is “rich unto all that call upon Him,” has said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.” Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded Peter’s service. And every sacrifice made in His ministry will be recompensed. See Ephesians 3:20; 2:7.From Splendor to Shadow
The Gospel to All the World
SS 166.1
Today this prophecy is meeting rapid fulfillment. Soon the gospel message will have been proclaimed to all nations. Men and women from every kindred, tongue, and people are being “accepted in the Beloved,” “that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 1:6; 2:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 16a, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 16a, 1899, par. 13
The plan of redemption was arranged in the counsels between the Father and the Son. Then Christ pledged Himself to render an account for man if he proved disloyal. He pledged Himself to make an atonement which would unite every believing soul to God. He who lays his sins upon the Substitute and Surety, thus becoming a partaker of the divine nature, can unite with the apostle in saying, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places.” “That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 1:3; 2:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 18, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 18, 1902, par. 8
To save fallen man, a love that passeth all understanding was revealed. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son (wonderful, wonderful condescension!), that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] God spared not His only begotten Son, but delivered Him up as a ransom for us and for a world lying in sin and ignorance. Let all who teach the truth and all who accept it adore God and magnify His name for “the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:7.] Justice and mercy were reconciled by Christ’s sacrifice for man’s salvation. At the cross Mercy and Truth met together; Righteousness and Peace embraced each other. Through the sacrifice of Christ, Mercy is reaching out, offering to cleanse man from his unrighteousness. Thus is fulfilled the everlasting purpose of God. Man may accept this great gift and co-operate with God, his own will being conformed to God’s will.In Heavenly Places
A Love Born of Mercy, January 6
HP 12.5
The plan of redemption was arranged in the counsels between the Father and the Son. Then Christ pledged Himself to render an account for man if he proved disloyal. He pledged Himself to make an atonement which would unite every believing soul to God. He who lays his sins upon the substitute and surety ... can unite with the apostle in saying: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places.” “That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 1:3; Ephesians 2:7).Maranatha
Our Study in Ages to Come, December 23
Mar 365.1
That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:7.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 26—“Behold Your God!”
PK 313.3
Today this prophecy is meeting rapid fulfillment. The missionary activities of the church of God on earth are bearing rich fruitage, and soon the gospel message will have been proclaimed to all nations. “To the praise of the glory of His grace,” men and women from every kindred, tongue, and people are being made “accepted in the Beloved,” “that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 1:6; 2:7. “Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be His glorious name forever: and let the whole earth be filled with His glory.” Psalm 72:18, 19.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 1—“God With Us”
DA 26.1
Of His people God says, “They shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon His land. For how great is His goodness, and how great is His beauty!” Zechariah 9:16, 17. The exaltation of the redeemed will be an eternal testimony to God’s mercy. “In the ages to come,” He will “show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” “To the intent that ... unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known ... the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 2:7; 3:10, 11, R. V.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 25—The Call by the Sea
DA 249.1
Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter’s boat for the work of the gospel had been richly repaid. He who is “rich unto all that call upon Him,” has said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.” Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded the disciple’s service. And every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to “the exceeding riches of His grace.” Ephesians 3:20; 2:7.The Upward Look
Our Study Now and in the Hereafter, March 30
UL 103.1
That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace. Ephesians 2:7.This Day With God
Guide Book to Salvation, April 28
TDG 127.3
The Word of God is the great educating book. But while many claim to respect it, they place other books before it. The human reason is exalted above the divine. Must I speak out plainly, and bear a decided testimony? Had the Word of God been regarded as it ever should have been—as the voice of God to men, the source of all wisdom, all truth, all higher education—children, youth, and parents would have made it not only their study, but their teacher and their guide, that “in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:7)....The Review and Herald
March 18, 1915
RH March 18, 1915, par. 10
Today this prophecy is meeting rapid fulfillment. The missionary activities of the church of God on earth are bearing rich fruitage, and soon the gospel message will have been proclaimed to all nations. “To the praise of the glory of his grace,” men and women from every kindred, tongue, and people are being made “accepted in the Beloved,” “that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 1:6; 2:7. “Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name forever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory.” Psalm 72:18, 19.Ephesians 2:7-10
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 50, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 22
The Word of God is the great educating book. But while many claim to respect it, they place other books before it. The human reason is exalted above the divine. Must I speak out plainly, and bear a decided testimony? Had the Word of God been regarded as it ever should have been—as the voice of God to men, the source of all wisdom, all truth, all higher education—children, youth, and parents would have made it not only their study, but their teacher and their guide, that “in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:7-10.]13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 23
“In the ages to come.” [Verse 7.] What a history those ages will unfold. How can the children of the world endure to look into the heights and depths of that eternity called by the apostle “the ages to come”? What can be known about those ages to come? The Bible is the text book, and it is to be searched diligently—not as we would read a book among many books. It must be to us the book that meets the wants of the soul. This book will make the man who studies and obeys it wise unto salvation. As food cannot nourish the body unless it be eaten and digested, neither can the Word of the living God profit the soul unless it be received as the teacher in higher educational lines, as above all human productions; unless its principles be obeyed because it is the wisdom of God.Ephesians 2:8
Christ Triumphant
All May Know God the Father, August 2
CTr 221.1
For by grace are ye saved through faith; ... it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8.Our Father Cares
A Working Faith, June 11
OFC 174.2
It is one thing to read and teach the Bible, and another thing to have by practice its life-giving, sanctifying principles engrafted on the soul.... “By grace are ye saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). The mind should be educated to exercise faith rather than to cherish doubt, suspicion, and jealousy. We are too prone to regard obstacles as impossibilities. To have faith in the promises of God, to go forward by faith, pressing on without being governed by circumstances, is a lesson hard to learn. Yet it is a positive necessity that every child of God should learn this lesson. The grace of God through Christ is ever to be cherished, for it is given us as the only way of approaching God....Reflecting Christ
Obedience, the Fruit of Faith, September 17
RC 274.4
The so-called faith in Christ which professes to release men from the obligation of obedience to God is not faith, but presumption. “By grace are ye saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8). But “faith, if it hath not works, is dead” (James 2:17). Jesus said of Himself before He came to earth, “I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart” (Psalm 40:8). And just before He ascended again to heaven, He declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 15:10). The Scriptures says, “Hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments” (1 John 2:3)....Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 62—Justified by Faith
1SM 394.2
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus” (Romans 3:24-26). “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). [John 1:14-16 quoted.]Selected Messages Book 2
Exalting Christ
2SM 170.2
Every soul who truly accepts Christ by faith will walk in humility of heart. There will be no exalting of self; but Christ will be exalted as the One on whom the hope of eternal life depends. “By grace are ye saved through faith” (Ephesians 2:8), the apostle Paul declared. And it is the grace of Christ in us that makes us His witnesses. We can be overcomers only by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of our testimony. By a well-ordered life and a godly conversation, we become lights in the church and in the world. Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned. Those who drink most deeply of the waters of salvation will reveal most fully the meekness and lowliness of Christ.Steps to Christ
Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship
SC 61.2
That so-called faith in Christ which professes to release men from the obligation of obedience to God, is not faith, but presumption. “By grace are ye saved through faith.” But “faith, if it hath not works, is dead.” Ephesians 2:8; James 2:17. Jesus said of Himself before He came to earth, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. And just before He ascended again to heaven He declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10. The Scripture says, “Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.... He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk even as He walked.” 1 John 2:3-6. “Because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21.The Upward Look
Receiving His Righteousness, February 19
UL 64.1
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8.This Day With God
Every Step of the Way, March 4
TDG 72.1
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8.TDG 72.2
We cannot even manufacture faith ourselves. “It is the gift of God: (Ephesians 2:8). The whole of our salvation comes through the gift of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. How glad I am. It comes from such a source that we cannot doubt it. And He is “the author”—does it stop there? Does it stop there? “The author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). Thank God. He attends us every step of the way through, if we are willing to be saved in Christ’s appointed way, through obedience to His requirements. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). What does this mean? Is it a contradiction? Let us see what the last of it says. “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” (verses 12, 13). Praise God. Now who will be discouraged? Who is going to faint? It is not committed to us, weak, feeble mortals to work out our own salvation in our own line. It is Christ that worketh in you. And this is the privilege of every son and daughter of Adam. But we are to work. We are not to be idle. We are put here in this world to work. We are not put here to fold our arms.—Manuscript 18, March 4, 1894, “Laborers Together With God.”To Be Like Jesus
Obedience Through Grace, February 9
BLJ 48.1
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8, NKJV.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
Amazing Grace
NL 25.2
“Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus” (Romans 3:24-26). “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). [John 1:14-16 quoted.]Faith and Works
Supernatural Power for Supernatural Works
FW 27.2
“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). Here is truth that will unfold the subject to your mind if you do not close it to the rays of light. Eternal life is an infinite gift. This places it outside the possibility of our earning it, because it is infinite. It must necessarily be a gift. As a gift it must be received by faith, and gratitude and praise be offered to God. Solid faith will not lead anyone away into fanaticism or into acting the slothful servant. It is the bewitching power of Satan that leads men to look to themselves in the place of looking to Jesus. The righteousness of Christ must go before us if the glory of the Lord becomes our rereward. If we do God’s will, we may accept large blessings as God’s free gift, but not because of any merit in us; this is of no value. Do the work of Christ, and you will honor God and come off more than conquerors through Him that has loved us and given His life for us, that we should have life and salvation in Jesus Christ.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Danger of False Ideas on Justification by Faith
1888 820.1
“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8. Here is truth that will unfold the subject to your mind if you do not close it to the rays of light. Eternal life is an infinite gift. This places it outside the possibility of our earning it, because it is infinite. It must necessarily be a gift. As a gift it must be received by faith, and gratitude and praise be offered to God. Solid faith will not lead any one away into fanaticism or into acting the slothful servant. It is the bewitching power of Satan that leads men to look to themselves in the place of looking to Jesus. The righteousness of Christ must go before us if the glory of the Lord becomes our reward. If we do God’s will we may accept large blessings as God’s free gift, but not because of any merit in us; this is of no value. Do the work of Christ, and you will honor God and come off more than conquerors through Him that has loved us and given His life for us, that we should have life and salvation in Jesus Christ.True Revival
Amazing Grace
TR 33.2
“Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus” (Romans 3:24-26). “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). [John 1:14-16 quoted.]From the Heart
The Purpose of Grace, October 9
FH 294.1
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8.Homeward Bound
Grace From the Saviour, March 29
HB 106.1
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.—Ephesians 2:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 36, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 36, 1890, par. 28
“By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8. Here is truth that will unfold the subject to your mind if you do not close it to the rays of light. Eternal life is an infinite gift. This places it outside the possibility of our earning it, because it is infinite. It must necessarily be a gift. As a gift it must be received by faith, and gratitude and praise be offered to God. Solid faith will not lead any one away into fanaticism or into acting the slothful servant. It is the bewitching power of Satan that leads men to look to themselves in the place of looking to Jesus. The righteousness of Christ must go before us if the glory of the Lord becomes our rereward. If we do God’s will we may accept large blessings as God’s free gift, but not because of any merit in us; this is of no value. Do the work of Christ, and you will honor God and come off more than conquerors through Him that has loved us and given His life for us, that we should have life and salvation in Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 19, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 19, 1890, par. 3
Through faith, irrespective of feeling, Jesus, the Author of our salvation, the Finisher of our faith, will by His precious grace strengthen the moral powers, and the sinner may reckon himself “to be dead unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ.” [Romans 6:11.] Simple faith, with the love of Christ in the soul, unites the believer to God. While toiling in battle as a faithful soldier of Christ, he has the sympathy of the whole loyal universe. The ministering angels are round about him to aid in the conflict, so that he may boldly say, “The Lord is my helper,” “the Lord is my strength and my shield;” I shall not be overcome. [Hebrews 13:6; Psalm 28:7.] “By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:8.]God’s Amazing Grace
Renewed to Abraham, May 5
AG 133.5
If it were not possible for human beings under the Abrahamic covenant to keep the commandments of God, every soul of us is lost. The Abrahamic covenant is the covenant of grace. “By grace are ye saved” (Ephesians 2:8). Disobedient children? No, obedient to all His commandments.18SDA Bible Commentary 1:1092.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 69, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 20
The Lord has given to you the privilege of receiving Him by a living, earnest, working faith. Then you may promote the glory of God. You need the new birth of soul. Then your words, your passionate impulses would not be a dark denial of Him. “By grace are ye saved.” [Ephesians 2:8.] This is what the Lord is hungry to do for us poor, defective human beings. He has shown how much He values man in that He gave Jesus to our world to a life of poverty, of sorrow and of death. Our faith in Jesus Christ will work by love and purify the soul. He offers His Spirit day by day to be our sufficiency. We are not only to burn as a dim taper, we are to shine so that others may be led to glorify God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 179, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 179, 1897, par. 19
“By grace are ye saved through faith.” Ephesians 2:8. We need a living, acting, increasing faith and zeal. The whole life is to be consecrated to God. We must bring earnestness into our works. The Lord will accept of no divided service. Each day we live we are deciding our future eternal destiny. Solemn thought. Let not Satan steal a march upon us. We are to be always abounding in the work of our Lord, knowing that our labor is not in vain in the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 58, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 58, 1902, par. 10
Let no one think that he can purchase heaven by making gifts to God’s work. No gift any human being might make, however large, could atone for his own sins or the sins of another. God’s grace is exercised to save to the uttermost all who come to Him. There is no point on which divine honor is more jealous or more uncompromising. “By grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:8.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Ephesians 2:1
God’s Amazing Grace
Wages or Gift? November 1
AG 313.3
By nature we are alienated from God. The Holy Spirit describes our condition in such words as these: “Dead in trespasses and sins;” “the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint;” “no soundness in it” (Ephesians 2:1; Isaiah 1:5, 6). We are held fast in the snare of Satan, “taken captive by him at his will” (2 Timothy 2:26). God desires to heal us, to set us free. But since this requires an entire transformation, a renewing of our whole nature, we must yield ourselves wholly to Him.Homeward Bound
The Greatest Battle We Face, March 7
HB 84.2
The whole heart must be yielded to God, or the change can never be wrought in us by which we are to be restored to His likeness. By nature we are alienated from God. The Holy Spirit describes our condition in such words as these: “Dead in trespasses and sins;” “the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint;” “no soundness in it.” We are held fast in the snare of Satan, “taken captive by him at his will.” (Ephesians 2:1; Isaiah 1:5, 6; 2 Timothy 2:26.) God desires to heal us, to set us free. But since this requires an entire transformation, a renewing of our whole nature, we must yield ourselves wholly to Him.Homeward Bound
Spiritual Healing, March 13
HB 90.1
And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins.—Ephesians 2:1.HB 90.5
Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. There are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24, margin.) Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” (John 5:6.) He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” (Ephesians 2:1.) He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.—The Desire of Ages, 202, 203.Homeward Bound
In Safe Paths, April 6
HB 115.3
The Saviour continued: “What things soever He [the Father] doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. . . . As the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom He will.” The Sadducees held that there would be no resurrection of the body; but Jesus tells them that one of the greatest works of His Father is raising the dead, and that He Himself has power to do the same work. “The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.” The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead. Christ declares that even now the power which gives life to the dead is among them, and they are to behold its manifestation. This same resurrection power is that which gives life to the soul “dead in trespasses and sins.” (Ephesians 2:1.) That spirit of life in Christ Jesus, “the power of His resurrection,” sets us “free from the law of sin and death.” (Philippians 3:10; Romans 8:2.) The dominion of evil is broken, and through faith the soul is kept from sin. All who open their hearts to the Spirit of Christ become partakers of that mighty power which shall bring forth their bodies from the grave. . . .Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 87, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 87, 1898, par. 20
Today the Lord Jesus is working His miracles. The hardened dead hear His voice and live. “You hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” [Ephesians 2:1.] In the remarkable conversions that take place in this age of the world, we may trace the finger of God. Shall we then fold our hands and do nothing? We are under obligation to God to show an interest in those around us. Your neighbor may be yielding to the temptation to destroy himself by liquor drinking and tobacco using. He may be burning up his vital organs by fiery stimulant. He is pursuing this course to the ruination of himself and his wife and children, who have no success in trying to stay the feet that are travelling the road to perdition. God calls upon you to work in His vineyard, to do all in your power to save your fellow creatures.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 160, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 160, 1903, par. 14
“You hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” [Ephesians 2:1.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on His name.” [John 1:12.] But we cannot be accepted while we continue to transgress. We are brought to God through Christ only as we accept the obligation resting on us to obey the law and are renewed in the spirit of our mind. “Wherefore,” Paul writes, “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 15:58.]18LtMs, Lt 160, 1903, par. 16
“And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” [Ephesians 2:1.] Christ will give us the vivifying influence of His Holy Spirit. This is what you both need, else you will never see the kingdom of God. When you are converted, you will see Christ as your sin-pardoning Saviour.18LtMs, Lt 160, 1903, par. 29
My brother and sister, your two lives are worth more than a thousand worlds if of you it can in the heavenly courts be said, “They are dead, and their lives are hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:3.] “You hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” [Ephesians 2:1.] It is yours to say, “I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” [Galatians 2:20.] The richest of heaven’s blessings are ours through the gospel of our Redeemer. We may rise to our high privileges. Shall we not make a determined effort to live wholly for God?Lift Him Up
He Is Always Near, March 14
LHU 87.4
By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. Many realize their helplessness; they are longing for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God, and are striving to obtain it. But in vain. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24, margin). Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe the Saviour’s word. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses” (Ephesians 2:1)....Jesus, Name Above All Names
Honored of the Angels, February 13
JNN 52.3
The Saviour continued: “What things soever He [the Father] doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.... As the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom He will.” The Sadducees held that there would be no resurrection of the body; but Jesus tells them that one of the greatest works of His Father is raising the dead, and that He Himself has power to do the same work. “The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.” The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead. Christ declares that even now the power which gives life to the dead is among them, and they are to behold its manifestation. This same resurrection power is that which gives life to the soul “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). That spirit of life in Christ Jesus, “the power of His resurrection,” sets humans “free from the law of sin and death” (Philippians 3:10; Romans 8:2). The dominion of evil is broken, and through faith the soul is kept from sin. He who opens his heart to the Spirit of Christ becomes a partaker of that mighty power which shall bring forth his body from the grave.Steps to Christ
Chapter 5—Consecration
SC 43.2
The whole heart must be yielded to God, or the change can never be wrought in us by which we are to be restored to His likeness. By nature we are alienated from God. The Holy Spirit describes our condition in such words as these: “Dead in trespasses and sins;” “the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint;” “no soundness in it.” We are held fast in the snare of Satan, “taken captive by him at his will.” Ephesians 2:1; Isaiah 1:5, 6; 2 Timothy 2:26. God desires to heal us, to set us free. But since this requires an entire transformation, a renewing of our whole nature, we must yield ourselves wholly to Him.The Faith I Live By
Our Helpless Condition in Sin, March 22
FLB 87.3
By nature we are alienated from God. The Holy Spirit describes our condition in such words as these: “Dead in trespasses and sins;” “the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint”; “no soundness in it.” We are held fast in the snare of Satan; “taken captive by him at his will.” Ephesians 2:1; Isaiah 1:5, 6; 2 Timothy 2:26. God desires to heal us, to set us free. But since this requires an entire transformation, a renewing of our whole nature, we must yield ourselves wholly to Him.The Ministry of Healing
“Wilt Thou Be Made Whole?”
MH 84.4
By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. Many realize their helplessness; they are longing for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God, and are striving to obtain it. But in vain. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe the Saviour’s word. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” Ephesians 2:1. He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 106—Peril of Trusting in the Wisdom of Men
1888 844.1
We meet instability now in every church. But few members emit light; but few are living stones. The unconverted need Christ lifted up before them, expressing His love for fallen men by giving His life to save them from eternal ruin. I tell you, those professing to believe the truth must be converted for men are dead in trespasses and sins. Ephesians 2:1From Heaven With Love
The Secret of Spiritual Healing
HLv 128.4
Do not wait to feel whole. Believe His word, and put your will on the side of Christ. In acting on His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil which binds both soul and body, Christ is able to deliver. He will impart life to the soul “dead in trespasses.” Ephesians 2:1.