EGW WritingsEphesians 3

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 111, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 111, 1906, par. 5

“For this cause, I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, if ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; ... which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power. Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” [Ephesians 3:1-3, 5-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 89, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 16

Those who strive for the Spirit of God will be rewarded in accordance with the promise, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] My brethren and sisters, will you not awake out of sleep? Will you not pray and watch unto prayer? Through the power that Jesus gives, we can be more than conquerors. But we cannot manufacture this power. Only through the Spirit of God can we receive it. We need a deep insight into the nature of Christ and into the mystery of His love “that passeth knowledge.” [Ephesians 3:19.] We are to live in the warm, genial rays of the Sun of righteousness. Nothing but His loving compassion, His divine grace, His almighty power can enable us to baffle the relentless foe and subdue the opposition of the human heart. What is our strength?—The joy of the Lord. Let the melting love of Christ fill the heart, and we are softened and subdued, prepared to receive the power that He has for us.

18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 23

Paul passed over this ground. He writes, “For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of the Lord Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, if ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to you-ward; how that by revelation He made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.” [Ephesians 3:1-6.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]

MR No. 345—Ellen G. White Statements About Her Work

5MR 453.2

My heart is drawn out to write upon Ephesians 3. I read this over and over and how very precious are these words.—Manuscript 222, 1902. (Diary, August to September, 1902.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 157, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 157, 1899, par. 4

The third chapter of Ephesians is full of instruction. Paul would have us understand his teaching. “How that by revelation,” he says, “he made known unto me the mystery; (which I write afore in few words; whereby when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ;) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy prophets and apostles by the Spirit, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body, and partakers of his promise by Christ in the gospel.” [Verses 3-6.]

14LtMs, Ms 157, 1899, par. 5

“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto all the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Verses 8-11.]

14LtMs, Ms 157, 1899, par. 6

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth are named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages world without end.” [Verses 14-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 85, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 85, 1900, par. 19

The third chapter of Ephesians speaks distinctly regarding the work that is to be done in the world at the present time, the work which will magnify the truth by exerting a sanctifying, cleansing, refining influence. The church of God is the dearest object He has on this earth. It is not composed merely of ministers of the gospel, but of all who are united by faith to Christ, through belief of the truth that works by love and purifies the soul. By them the work of the gospel is to be accomplished. All who embrace the truth are to be children of God, members of one family.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 68, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 68, 1900, par. 21

The whole of the third chapter of Ephesians is a lesson for all teachers, for all ministers of the gospel, and for all who occupy responsible positions in the work of God. And when their imperfections of character are manifest in spirit or in action, setting a wrong example in their families, in the school, in the church, or in the world, unless they become converted, they should be advised to take up some other calling where they will not in character act the spirit of the unbeliever and lead others in the wrong direction.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 92, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 92, 1901, par. 9

Read and ponder the third chapter of Ephesians. Let its noble truth take hold upon your soul. This chapter reveals the work that is to be done for everyone who is saved. Christ is to be revealed in us and by us and through us.

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 222, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 222, 1902, par. 12

Thank the Lord I have had the great blessing come to me of sleep. I fell asleep while writing [and slept] from half-past eight o’clock until half-past three o’clock a.m. My heart is drawn out to write upon Ephesians 3. I read this over and over, and how very precious are these words.

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 22 (1907)

Ms 129, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 129, 1907, par. 32

We are to grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. In the third of Ephesians we read:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 67, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 67, 1907, par. 16

The third chapter of Ephesians contains a lesson for all teachers, for ministers of the gospel, and for all who occupy positions of responsibility in the work of God. When imperfections of character are manifest in those who should be ensamples to the flock, those who set a wrong example in the school, in the church, in the world—wherever they may be—should be advised to take up some other work where they will not lead others in a wrong direction.

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 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 41, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 30

And the apostle desires “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, ... to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:[9], 10. R. V.

7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 33

Such is the import of His own words when, for the last time teaching in the temple, He said, looking forward to His approaching sacrifice, “now is the judgment of this world; now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all unto me.” [John 12:31, 32.] “Will draw all unto me”—not only earth, but heaven, for of Him “The whole family in heaven and earth is named.” Ephesians 3:15.

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 40, 1896

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.

11LtMs, Lt 40, 1896, par. 11

This subject is not exhausted, but I must close now in order to get my letter into the mail. You shall have more of the same next month. But I entreat you to have courage in the Lord. Divine strength is ours, and let us talk courage and strength and faith. Read the third chapter of Ephesians. Practice the instruction given. Bear a living testimony for God under all circumstances.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 94, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 14

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height, and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]

13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 16

The fourth chapter of Ephesians is a continuation of the subject in chapter three. “I therefore the prisoner of the Lord beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called.” [Ephesians 4:1.] If we would do this, remembering that God works with other minds as well as with ours, that He carries on His work by different gifts and appointments, if we would give others credit for being worked by the Holy Spirit, there would not be so much jealousy, so much sensitiveness, because we are not appreciated and given room to act.

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 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)

Lt 204, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 204, 1899, par. 15

The third chapter of Ephesians also contains most important lessons for every one of our institutions. Paul writes, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ, to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verses 8-10.] Sanctified ministry calls for self-denial. The cross must be uplifted, and its place in the gospel work shown. Human influence is to draw its efficacy from the One who is able to save and keep saved all who recognize their dependence on Him. By the union of church members with Christ and with each other the transforming power of the gospel is to be diffused throughout the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 36, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 21

“Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power. Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:1-3, 5-11.]

19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 23

The end is near, and the message contained in the third chapter of Ephesians is the message that I am bidden to give to believers. A worldwide message is to be borne. The situation has been laid open before me. We are now to take hold of God in earnest. The Voice said, “Lift up your voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.] They are hindering the proclamation of the last message of warning to the world.

19LtMs, Ms 36, 1904, par. 25

Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians was: “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knoweth, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:16-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 60, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 60, 1906, par. 10

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly, above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout the ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:1-3, 5-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 179, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 1

“For this cause I, Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,”—He can well say that. It was the preaching to the Gentiles that made him a prisoner. “If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery: (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.” [Ephesians 3:1-5.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 3

“That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel.” The middle wall of partition He hath granted us, we might say, was broken down. “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power.” [Verses 6, 7.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 6

“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” [Verse 8.] Well, what does that mean? Why, it is riches that you may continue and continue to search for, and have more and still more. God wants us to be in a position that we can say, “Here, Lord, I am, take me as I am, cleanse me from all impurity, I want to be cleansed, I want to be washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb.”

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 7

“And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verses 9, 10.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 12

“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verse 10.] Now that is a point I want you to fix in your mind. I want the Holy Spirit to put it there, and the Holy Spirit can do this if you will open the way for the Holy Spirit to work upon your mind.

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 15

Now why cannot we take the promise of Jesus Christ? Why cannot we believe it? God wants us to encourage faith. He wants us to believe. Well then, we shall understand “to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose.” [Ephesians 3:10, 11.] Now you can see this was purposed from the beginning for every child of God, that they were to receive “according to the eternal purpose which he purposed” in Christ Jesus our Lord (all this fulness, all this greatness of experience). [Verse 11.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 16

“In whom we have boldness”—well, what does that mean? A self-confidence? No; a boldness in the Word, because we have placed ourselves in that humble position before God, and therefore we have access to Jesus Christ. Humble yourselves, and I am lifted up. Well, what is the lifting up? It is that confidence, that boldness, that courage, that we must have. Reach up your hands heavenward, and let everyone know that you purpose in your conversation, in your well-ordered and godly character, that you can glorify the God of heaven, “in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Verses 12-14.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 17

I have met persons who have professed to believe in Christ, who for years have been in an uncertain position as to whether or not we should bow our knees to Christ in prayer. Well, you can see how some stumble over little things. Well, here it is just as plain: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man.” [Verses 14-16.] What is that? Why, we have here an abiding Christ, and “if ye abide in me, and my words abide in you,” He says, “ye shall go forth and bring forth much fruit.” [John 15:7, 16, 5.] Well, that is just what we want to do.

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 18

“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love (now you see how full the language is), may be able to comprehend with all saints what the breadth, and length, and depth, and height.” [Ephesians 3:16-18.]

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 20

“And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Verse 19.] Can we comprehend that—“filled with all the fulness of God”? Who is it now that will come and say, “What do you think? What shall I do? I do not feel as I want to feel.” Why, you just take that, and put it right in their hand, and tell them there is somebody that has told them all about how to get that feeling. It is by faith in Jesus Christ. It is the inner man that is strengthened, that you can take hold of that power, as Moses lifted up his hands; and as his hands were uplifted, Israel prevailed. We want to prevail as Israel. We want to have our minds drawn to God and to heaven. We want His righteousness, we want His truth wrought in us, and we want to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know that His going forth is prepared as the morning.

16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, par. 22

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think”—now, you should take that into consideration, “above all that we ask or think.” [Verses 14-20.] That is, after you have thought of your many wants, and ask God to give wisdom and to help you in every point, you are to say, “What I fail, what I fail to present in asking, give to me according to my necessities.” “Above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Verses 20, 21.]

The Upward Look

The Gospel Is Powerful, October 22

UL 309.1

Ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery. Ephesians 3:2, 3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 51, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 51, 1902, par. 10

Paul writes, “Ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to you-ward; how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; ... which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel.” [Ephesians 3:2, 3, 5, 6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 84b, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 84b, 1897, par. 8

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:4. And this whole chapter will, if the heart is receptive, be as precious a lesson as we can learn.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 16—The Gospel Message in Antioch

AA 159.2

Thus the Lord had given Paul his commission to enter the broad missionary field of the Gentile world. To prepare him for this extensive and difficult work, God had brought him into close connection with Himself and had opened before his enraptured vision views of the beauty and glory of heaven. To him had been given the ministry of making known “the mystery” which had been “kept secret since the world began” (Romans 16:25),—“the mystery of His will” (Ephesians 1:9), “which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof,” declares Paul, “I was made a minister.... Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 3:5-11.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 2—The Training of the Twelve

AA 19.3

The Saviour longed to unfold to His disciples the truth regarding the breaking down of the “middle wall of partition” between Israel and the other nations—the truth that “the Gentiles should be fellow heirs” with the Jews and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.” Ephesians 2:14; 3:6. This truth was revealed in part at the time when He rewarded the faith of the centurion at Capernaum, and also when He preached the gospel to the inhabitants of Sychar. Still more plainly was it revealed on the occasion of His visit to Phoenicia, when He healed the daughter of the Canaanite woman. These experiences helped the disciples to understand that among those whom many regarded as unworthy of salvation, there were souls hungering for the light of truth.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 43—Barriers Broken Down

DA 402.2

Jesus longed to unfold the deep mysteries of the truth which had been hid for ages, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs with the Jews, and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.” Ephesians 3:6. This truth the disciples were slow to learn, and the divine Teacher gave them lesson upon lesson. In rewarding the faith of the centurion at Capernaum, and preaching the gospel to the inhabitants of Sychar, He had already given evidence that He did not share the intolerance of the Jews. But the Samaritans had some knowledge of God; and the centurion had shown kindness to Israel. Now Jesus brought the disciples in contact with a heathen, whom they regarded as having no reason above any of her people, to expect favor from Him. He would give an example of how such a one should be treated. The disciples had thought that He dispensed too freely the gifts of His grace. He would show that His love was not to be circumscribed to race or nation.

From Trials to Triumph

No “Wall” Between Jews and Gentiles

TT 13.2

The Saviour longed to unfold to His disciples the truth that “the Gentiles should be fellow heirs” with the Jews and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.” Ephesians 3:6. He rewarded the faith of the centurion at Capernaum; He preached to the inhabitants of Sychar; and on His visit to Phoenicia, He healed the daughter of the Canaanite woman. Among those whom many regarded as unworthy of salvation, there were souls hungering for truth.

From Heaven With Love

Faith in Christ Gives Her a Tremendous Argument

HLv 269.3

Jesus longed to unfold the deep mysteries of the truth, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs with the Jews, and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel.” Ephesians 3:6. In rewarding the faith of the centurion at Capernaum and preaching to the inhabitants of Sychar, He had already given evidence that He did not share the intolerance of the Jews. But now Jesus brought the disciples in contact with a heathen, whom they regarded as having no reason to expect favor from Him. He would show that His love was not to be circumscribed to race or nation.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Majesty of Heaven, September 18

JNN 276.7

The Saviour longed to unfold to His disciples the truth regarding the breaking down of the “middle wall of partition” between Israel and the other nations—the truth that “the Gentiles should be fellow heirs” with the Jews and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel” (Ephesians 2:14; 3:6).—The Acts of the Apostles, 18, 19.

Selected Messages Book 3

The Clothes Seventh-day Adventist Ministers Wear

3SM 249.1

Ephesians 3:6, 7: “That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power.”

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 16—Dramatic Success at Antioch

TT 85.2

Thus the Lord had given Paul his commission to enter the missionary field of the Gentile world, to make known “the mystery” which had been “kept secret since the world began” (Romans 16:25), “that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof,” declares Paul, “I was made a minister... . Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Ephesians 3:6-8.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 76—Manners and Dress of Ministers

2T 609.1

Ephesians 3:6, 7 : “That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel: whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power.”

2T 609.3

“And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” Verse 9. This does not refer merely to the words that roll off the tongue; it is not merely to be eloquent in speaking and praying; but it is to make known Christ, to have Christ in us, and make Him known to those that hear.

The Review and Herald

May 30, 1871

RH May 30, 1871, par. 1

Ephesians 3:6, 7: “That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel; whereof I was made a minister according to the gift of the grace of God, given unto me by the effectual working of his power.”

RH May 30, 1871, par. 3

“And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” Verse 9. It is not merely the words that roll off your tongue, it is not merely to be eloquent in speaking and praying, but it is to make known Christ, to have Christ in you, and make him known to those that hear.

Testimony for the Church — No. 20

Address to Ministers

T20 49.2

Ephesians 3:6, 7: “That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel; whereof I was made a minister according to the gift of the grace of God, given unto me by the effectual working of his power.”

T20 50.2

“And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” Verse 9. It is not merely the words that roll off your tongue, it is not merely to be eloquent in speaking and praying, but it is to make known Christ, to have Christ in you, and make him known to those that hear.

In Heavenly Places

Before the Heavenly Universe, November 10

HP 321.2

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 shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 3:7). This kindness He expects us to bring into our dealings with one another....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 3, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 8

“Wherefore I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me whom am the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world has been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:7-11.]

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 9

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Verses 14-21.]

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

MR No. 1002—The Baker Letter

13MR 26.2

Our religious history should not be tame and common place, but an experience marked by the grace and decided working of the power of God with our efforts. Please read Ephesians 3:7-21. Read carefully and prayerfully; for this is for you, and for me, and for every minister in every Conference, whether they have or have not been formally ordained to the work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 8, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 38

Our religious history should not be tame and common place, but an experience marked by the grace and decided working of the power of God with our efforts. Please read Ephesians 3:7-21. Read carefully and prayerfully, for this is for you, and for me, and for every minister in every conference, whether they have or have not been formally ordained to the work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 125, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 125, 1903, par. 6

The first chapters of this epistle are words of commendation. Mark the outflowing of the apostle’s love in the words: “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Jesus Christ our Lord: in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” [Ephesians 3:7-21.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Unsearchable Riches, June 28

AG 187.1

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Ephesians 3:8.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 14—A Seeker for Truth

AA 134.2

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

Ye Shall Receive Power

Living Water to Be Shared, January 11

YRP 19.3

It was the same spirit of love and self-sacrifice which dwelt in Christ that impelled the apostle Paul to his manifold labors. “I am debtor,” he says, “both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise” (Romans 1:14). “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8).

A New Life (Revival and Beyond)

No Room for Boasting

NL 15.1

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed: “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6). It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone” (Isaiah 6:3, 5). Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4, margin; Ephesians 3:8). It was the beloved John, who leaned on Jesus’ breast and beheld His glory, that fell as one dead before the feet of the angel (Revelation 1:17).

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Reflecting God’s Glory

2TT 327.2

As the plan of redemption begins and ends with a gift so it is to be carried forward. The same spirit of sacrifice which purchased salvation for us will dwell in the hearts of all who become partakers of the heavenly gift. Says the apostle Peter: “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10. Said Jesus to His disciples as He sent them forth: “Freely ye have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8. In him who is fully in sympathy with Christ there can be nothing selfish or exclusive. He who drinks of the living water will find that it is “in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:14. The Spirit of Christ within him is like a spring welling up in the desert, flowing to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish, eager to drink of the water of life. It was the same spirit of love and self-sacrifice which dwelt in Christ that impelled the apostle Paul to his manifold labors. “I am debtor,” he says, “both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.” Romans 1:14. “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Ephesians 3:8.

From Trials to Triumph

Frail, Tempted Humans Are the Messengers

TT 71.4

The angel was not commissioned to tell Cornelius the story of the cross. A man subject to human frailties and temptations was to tell him of the crucified and risen Saviour. As His representatives God does not choose angels, but human beings, men of like passions with those they seek to save. Christ took humanity that He might reach humanity. A divine-human Saviour was needed to bring salvation to the world. And to men and women has been committed the sacred trust of making known “the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Ephesians 3:8. The Lord brings those who are seeking for truth into touch with fellow beings who know the truth. Those who have received light are to impart it to those in darkness. Humanity is made the working agency through which the gospel exercises its transforming power.

True Revival

No Room for Boasting

TR 24.1

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed: “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6). It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone” (Isaiah 6:3, 5). Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4, margin; Ephesians 3:8). It was the beloved John, who leaned on Jesus’ breast and beheld His glory, that fell as one dead before the feet of the angel (Revelation 1:17).

In Heavenly Places

Every Man Our Neighbor, November 9

HP 320.1

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Ephesians 3:8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 66, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 66, 1901, par. 35

Many young men and women now engaged in secular labor will feel earnestly stirred to give themselves to the service of God, to become channels of light. Some will feel a burden to enter the canvassing field and will become able evangelists. Let these be given an opportunity to obtain an education for the work of God. And let all God’s workers help and cheer and encourage one another with their prayers and faithful conversation, impressing one another with the dignity and responsibility of the work in which they are engaged. All missionary work is sacred. Said Paul, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” [Ephesians 3:8.]

Lift Him Up

The Plan of Redemption a Gift, September 21

LHU 278.4

As the plan of redemption begins and ends with a gift, so it is to be carried forward. The same spirit of sacrifice which purchased salvation for us will dwell in the hearts of all who become partakers of the heavenly gift. Says the apostle Peter: “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” Said Jesus to His disciples as He sent them forth: “Freely ye have received, freely give.” In him who is fully in sympathy with Christ there can be nothing selfish or exclusive. He who drinks of the living water will find that it is “in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” The Spirit of Christ within him is like a spring welling up in the desert, flowing to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life. It was the same spirit of love and self-sacrifice which dwelt in Christ that impelled the apostle Paul to his manifold labors. “I am debtor,” he says, “both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise” (Romans 1:14). “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8) (Testimonies for the Church 5:730, 731).

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 907—Ellen G. White Letters To J. H. Kellogg

11MR 312.3

I beseech you to make an unreserved surrender to God, and to make it now, just now. When you make this surrender you will have an experience entirely different from the experience that you have had for many years. Then you will be able to say with the apostle Paul, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8). “I delight in the law of God after the inward man” (Romans 7:22).

Maranatha

No Room for Boasting, August 15

Mar 235.4

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed: “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6). It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone” (Isaiah 6:3, 5). Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4, margin; Ephesians 3:8). It was the beloved John, who leaned on Jesus’ breast and beheld His glory, that fell as one dead before the feet of the angel (Revelation 1:17).

Reflecting Christ

The Truly Sanctified Feel Unworthy, March 18

RC 91.4

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed: “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6). It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone” (Isaiah 6:3, 5). Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4, margin; Ephesians 3:8)....

That I May Know Him

Holiness a Companion of Humility, June 18

TMK 175.3

True holiness and humility are inseparable. The nearer the soul comes to God, the more completely is it humbled and subdued. When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed, “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6). It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone” (Isaiah 6:3, 5). Daniel, when visited by the holy messenger, says, “My comeliness was turned in me into corruption” (Daniel 10:8). Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things that it was not lawful for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints” (Ephesians 3:8). It was the beloved John, who leaned on Jesus’ breast and beheld His glory, who fell as one dead before the angel. The more closely and continuously we behold our Saviour, the less shall we see to approve in ourselves.25The Review and Herald, December 20, 1881.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 1—God’s Purpose in the Church

6T 13.1

Even these words fail of expressing the greatness and the glory of God’s purpose to be accomplished through His people. Not to this world only but to the universe are we to make manifest the principles of His kingdom. The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be [made] known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:8-10.

The Kress Collection

God’s Design in Establishing Sanitariums

KC 14.6

Even these words fail of reaching the greatness and the glory of God’s purpose to be accomplished through his people. Not to this world only, but to the universe, are we to make manifest the principles of His kingdom. The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ: and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ, to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:8-10.

Australasian Union Conference Record

June 1, 1900

AUCR June 1, 1900, par. 46

The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit says: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ: and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be (made) known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:8-10.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

To Represent God’s Character

2TT 367.2

Even these words fail of expressing the greatness and the glory of God’s purpose to be accomplished through His people. Not to this world only but to the universe are we to make manifest the principles of His kingdom. The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be [made] known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:8-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 166, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 166, 1899, par. 19

Even these words fail of reaching the greatness and the glory of God’s purpose to be accomplished through His people. Not to this world only, but to the universe are we to make manifest the principles of His kingdom. The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be (made) (R.V.) known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:8-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 69, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, par. 4

Speaking of the mystery “which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God,” Paul says, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery; ... to the intent that now unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Ephesians 3:8-10.] Not only to those living in this world, but to the principalities and powers in heavenly places is the church on this earth to reveal the glory of God.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 909—Attending and Acting in Theatrical Performances

11MR 338.2

Paul declared: [Ephesians 3:8-11 quoted]. To make known “unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places ... the manifold wisdom of God.” Righteousness is made known in that manifold wisdom, for nothing that is unrighteous can be wise. The wisdom of God and the power of God are waiting every human agency. God desires that we shall put to the tax every spiritual nerve and muscle, that we shall strive for an entrance into that city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. All who win eternal life will arm themselves for the conflict against every influence that would obstruct the way. They must bring their minds up to noble and elevated thoughts. While they offer humble prayer to God, they are to search to know what is truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 78, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 78, 1896, par. 37

As individuals, and as members of the church of God, we need to realize the special work which has been committed to us. Paul writes to Timothy, “Take heed unto thyself, and to the doctrine. Continue in them for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:16.] We have a very important work before us. “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints,” writes Paul, “is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ. To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places, might be known to the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose, which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 58a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 13

Paul declared: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold riches of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 14

“To make known to principalities and powers in heavenly places the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verse 10.] Righteousness is made known in that manifold wisdom, for nothing that is unrighteous can be wise. The wisdom of God and the power of God is waiting every human agency. God desires that we shall put to the tax every spiritual nerve and muscle, that we shall strive for an entrance into that city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. All who win eternal life will arm themselves for the conflict against every influence that would obstruct the way. They must bring their minds up to noble and elevated thoughts. While they offer humble prayer to God they are to search to know what is truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 19, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 19, 1899, par. 37

“Compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” [Luke 14:23.] What a message for the ministers of Christ! Our Lord now removes the veil and proclaims the supper His own. The time will come when those who refuse the invitation would give all for another opportunity. But He will not allow one of them to taste of His supper. Paul declares, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose, which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 130, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 130, 1902, par. 31

“Unto me who am less than the least of all saints,” writes the great apostle to the Gentiles, “is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 159, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 159, 1902, par. 12

Christ’s life is a perfect revelation of God’s character. What then is our duty, Paul tells us. Christ revealed Himself to Paul as he was persecuting the saints, and he declared, “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.” [Acts 26:19.] Henceforth his one desire was to preach Christ and Him crucified. Writing to the Ephesians, he says, “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 416, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, par. 9

“As truly as I live, saith the Lord, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord.” [Numbers 14:21.] The apostle Paul counted it his highest privilege that he could have a part in bringing about that blessed state. He writes: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be made known in the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 61b, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 8

In the evening, Professor Prescott spoke from Ephesians 3:8-12 on the subject of the divine-human family. This was a interesting meeting. Elder Corliss spoke Sabbath forenoon. The Lord strengthened me to speak to the people assembled under the tent Sabbath afternoon from Luke 21:34-36. I was happily disappointed to see so many people; quite a number not of our faith were present. They listened with interest. I felt deeply our need of the Holy Spirit to be manifested to human hearts.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC 471.1

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed: “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” Job 42:6. It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone.” Isaiah 6:3, 5. Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints.” 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, margin; Ephesians 3:8. It was the beloved John, who leaned on Jesus’ breast and beheld His glory, that fell as one dead before the feet of the angel. Revelation 1:17.

GC 476.2

Again he writes of his desire that the brethren at Ephesus might come to understand the height of the Christian’s privilege. He opens before them, in the most comprehensive language, the marvelous power and knowledge that they might possess as sons and daughters of the Most High. It was theirs “to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man,” to be “rooted and grounded in love,” to “comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” But the prayer of the apostle reaches the climax of privilege when he prays that “ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC88 471.1

When Job heard the voice of the Lord out of the whirlwind, he exclaimed, “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” [Job 42:6.] It was when Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord, and heard the cherubim crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts,” that he cried out, “Woe is me! for I am undone.” [Isaiah 6:3, 5.] Paul, after he was caught up into the third heaven, and heard things which it was not possible for a man to utter, speaks of himself as “less than the least of all saints.” [2 Corinthians 12:2-4 (Margin); Ephesians 3:8.] It was the beloved John, that leaned on Jesus’ breast, and beheld his glory, who fell as one dead before the feet of the angel. [Revelation 22:8.]

GC88 476.2

Again he writes of his desire that the brethren at Ephesus might come to understand the height of the Christian’s privilege. He opens before them, in the most comprehensive language, the marvelous power and knowledge that they might possess as sons and daughters of the Most High. It was theirs “to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man,” to be “rooted and grounded in love,” to “comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” But the prayer of the apostle reaches the climax of privilege when he prays that “ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” [Ephesians 3:16-19.]

The Sanctified Life

Paul’s Prayer for the Church

SL 84.1

In his letter to the church at Ephesus, Paul sets before them the “mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19), the “unsearchable riches of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8), and then assures them of his earnest prayers for their spiritual prosperity:

SL 84.2

“I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ...that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:14-19).

Reflecting Christ

Paul Emphasizes Sanctification, March 25

RC 98.2

In his letter to the church at Ephesus, Paul sets before them the “mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19), the “unsearchable riches of Christ” (chap. 3:8), and then assures them of his earnest prayers for their spiritual prosperity:

RC 98.3

“I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ... that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (verses 14-19).

That I May Know Him

Unlock the Storehouse! January 1

TMK 7.1

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Ephesians 3:8.

TMK 7.4

Jehovah Immanuel—He “in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,” in whom dwells “all the fulness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:3, 9)—to be brought into sympathy with Him, to know Him, to possess Him, as the heart opens more and more to receive His attributes; to know His love and power, to possess the unsearchable riches of Christ, to comprehend more and more “what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:18, 19)—“this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord” (Isaiah 54:17).2Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 34, 35.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Personal Ministry

GW 186.1

The work of the gospel minister is “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” [Ephesians 3:9.] If one entering upon this work chooses the least self-sacrificing part, contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the work of personal ministry for some one else to do, his labors will not be acceptable to God. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed personal labor; and he has mistaken his calling who, having entered the ministry, is unwilling to do the personal work that the care of the flock demands.

That I May Know Him

Mysteries Yet to Be Unfolded, December 25

TMK 365.1

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ. Ephesians 3:9.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 51—A Faithful Under-Shepherd

AA 527.1

The work of the gospel minister is “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” Ephesians 3:9. If one entering upon this work chooses the least self-sacrificing part, contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the work of personal ministry for someone else, his labors will not be acceptable to God. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed, personal labor; and he has mistaken his calling who, entering upon the ministry, is unwilling to do the personal work that the care of the flock demands.

My Life Today

Why the Great Controversy Was Permitted, December 30

ML 368.1

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God. Ephesians 3:9, 10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 200, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 200, 1899, par. 10

Our only hope for victory is in God; therefore our power and efficiency must come from God. He alone can do the work that is essential for the saving of the soul, and “make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Ephesians 3:9, 10.]

14LtMs, Lt 200, 1899, par. 11

What is “the fellowship of the mystery”? [Verse 9.] We want clear, sharp, critical spiritual intelligence, that we may comprehend this mystery, which words cannot possibly explain. Through faith in Christ, Gentiles and Jews were to be united in the bonds of Christian fellowship and communion. The foundation principles of this mystery are the love and wisdom which through belief of the truth make those who are at variance one in Christ, hid with Him in God. “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. ... Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17, 20-23.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]

MR No. 1317—The Home Life

18MR 121.3

The gospel—how precious it is! How important that it be presented to all! Rightly received, rightly understood, it makes all who receive it children of God, members of one family, giving them free access to Him as their Father. Those who receive the gospel are not self-centered. They love one another with an unselfish love. They allow nothing to bring in contention and strife. All heaven is pleased to aid them in their effort “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord” [Ephesians 3:9-11].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1509—Commentary on the Epistle to the Ephesians; Medical Work to Be Connected to the Church

21MR 54.1

We hope that the blessing of God will attend you because you walk humbly with God, yoked up with Christ, that He will spare your life to accomplish a work that will be as enduring as eternity. The apostle teaches us God’s purpose when He calls the gospel “the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Ephesians 3:9-11).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 43b, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 43b, 1891, par. 4

When the world was created by Jesus Christ through the power of God, Satan tempted Eve and she sinned, and she tempted Adam and he sinned. Then was the divine council from the beginning of the world hid in God. Ephesians 3:9-11. “And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God. According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 72, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 72, 1897, par. 7

The Lamb of God taketh away the sin of the world. He giveth the grace of His Spirit. O what love, what matchless love! Creation was originated in the purpose of God to glorify Himself in the redemption of the fallen race. “The mystery which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:9-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 126, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 126, 1898, par. 13

We hope that the blessing of God will attend you because you walk humbly with God, yoked up with Christ, that He will spare your life to accomplish a work that will be as enduring as eternity. The apostle teaches us God’s purpose when he calls the gospel “the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:9-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 161, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 161, 1902, par. 5

The gospel—how precious it is! how important that it be presented to all. Rightly received, rightly understood, it makes all who receive it children of God, members of one family, giving them free access to Him as their Father. Those who receive the gospel are not self-centered. They love one another with an unselfish love. They allow nothing to bring in contention and strife. All heaven is pleased to aid them in their effort “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:9-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 142, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 142, 1899, par. 11

To the church is given the work of making known to the world: “what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Ephesians 3:9, 10.]

14LtMs, Ms 142, 1899, par. 12

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Paul continues, “of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height, and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye night be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, to him be glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages, world without end.” [Verses 14-21.] This promise is for us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 222, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 222, 1903, par. 5

The truth that works by love and purifies the soul is to be cherished. We are to shun as we would the leprosy all spiritualistic ideas of God. There are mysteries that God has not revealed to human minds. Human beings would not know how to handle the Lord’s treasures of wisdom without tarnishing His glory. We are to understand, as diligent students, that which God has revealed. Paul speaks of the mystery “which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God;” and of the purpose of its revelation, saying: “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be made known by the church the manifold wisdom of God according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord; in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:9-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 45, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 45, 1892, par. 8

This prayer has seemed of great significance to me, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done in earth as it is done in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] All heaven is engaged in the work of preparing a people to stand in the day of the Lord’s preparation. The connection of heaven with earth seems very close. “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church, the manifold wisdom of God.” [Ephesians 3:10.] The restoring powers through the transforming grace upon the human agent is of highest value.

God’s Amazing Grace

The World Is Waiting, November 26

AG 338.2

The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the principalities and powers in heavenly places” (Ephesians 3:10), the final and full display of the love of God....

Reflecting Christ

God’s Church to Reflect His Glory, July 1

RC 196.2

The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the principalities and powers in heavenly places” (Ephesians 3:10), the final and full display of the love of God.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 1—God’s Purpose for His Church

AA 9.1

The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the principalities and powers in heavenly places,” the final and full display of the love of God. Ephesians 3:10.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 1—God’s Purpose for His Church

TT 9.1

The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. Its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. Through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the principalities and powers in heavenly places,” the final and full display of the love of God. Ephesians 3:10.

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.

Homeward Bound

God’s Fortress, August 2

HB 239.2

The church is God’s appointed agency for our salvation. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the principalities and powers in heavenly places,” the final and full display of the love of God. (Ephesians 3:10.)

That I May Know Him

The Fulfillment of God’s Purpose, December 27

TMK 367.1

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 3:10, 11.

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.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 51, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 51, 1890, par. 38

Let the church arise to her exalted privileges, and let each of its members stand in his place to represent the life and the character of Jesus Christ. He said, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. He devoted Himself wholly and entirely to the work of the redemption of the world. “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 3:10, 11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 158, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 28

We need individually a deeper experience. Then we shall have peace with God and shall be able to make known “the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ.” [Ephesians 3:10, 11.]

Bible Training School

December 1, 1907

BTS December 1, 1907, par. 2

And the apostle declares, “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, ... to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church, the manifold wisdom of God.” Ephesians 3:10 R. V.

BTS December 1, 1907, par. 4

Not only man but angels will ascribe honor and glory to the Redeemer, for even they are secure only through the sufferings of the Son of God. It is through the efficacy of the cross that the inhabitants of unfallen worlds have been guarded from apostasy. It is this that has effectually unveiled the deceptions of Satan and refuted his claims. Not only those that are washed by the blood of Christ, but also the holy angels, are drawn to him by his crowning act of giving his life for the sins of the world. God’s dealing with the rebellion of Satan is justified before the universe. The justice and mercy of God are fully vindicated, so that, through all eternity, rebellion will never again arise. Such is the import of His own words when for the last time teaching in the temple He said, looking forward to His approaching sacrifice, “Now is the judgment of this world; now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” Will draw all unto me—not only earth, but heaven; for of him “the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” Ephesians 3:15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 27, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 21

“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known, by the church, the manifold wisdom of God. According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:10, 11.] This eternal purpose embodied, before the universe, glory of divine love in the salvation of man. Charged with His <exalted> mission, Jesus came into the world as the visible representative of the invisible God. He said to Philip, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” “Henceforth ye know the Father, and hath seen him.” [John 14:9, 7.] “I and my Father are one.” [John 10:30.]

7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 26

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” [Ephesians 3:17-19.] It is the privilege and duty of every child of God to obtain day by day a living experience in the religion of Jesus Christ, through a connection with Christ, and [to] go forth in His Spirit, with His mind, as human agents co-operating with the divine, bearing to the world the message of the love of God to man: that Christ is our Advocate, that the bow of promise encircles the throne, that the Lord is waiting to be gracious. This work must not be set aside because it requires self-denial and self-sacrifice. Looking to the Author and Finisher of our faith, we must see there our Pattern. <Study the self-denying, self-sacrificing life of your Pattern. Bring your wants within your means.>

Education

Chapter 35—The School of the Hereafter

Ed 307.5

All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s children. With unutterable delight we shall enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. We shall share the treasures gained through ages upon ages spent in contemplation of God’s handiwork. And the years of eternity, as they roll, will continue to bring more glorious revelations. “Exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20) will be, forever and forever, the impartation of the gifts of God.

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 152.6

All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s children. With unutterable delight we shall enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. We shall share the treasures gained through ages upon ages spent in contemplation of God’s handiwork. And the years of eternity, as they roll, will continue to bring more glorious revelations. “Exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20) will be, forever and forever, the impartation of the gifts of God.

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.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 28—The Reward of Grace

COL 397.2

So God desires us to trust in Him who justifieth the ungodly. His reward is given not according to our merit but according to His own purpose, “which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 3:11. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:5. And for those who trust in Him He will do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20.

God’s Amazing Grace

Accessible to All, March 17

AG 84.1

In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Ephesians 3:12.

In Heavenly Places

Christ the Revelation of God, January 12

HP 18.4

We have access to God through the merits of the name of Christ, and God invites us to bring to Him our trials and temptations; for He understands them all. He would not have us pour out our woes to human ears. Through the blood of Christ we may come to the throne of grace and find grace to help in time of need. We may come with assurance, saying, “My acceptance is in the Beloved.” “For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him” (Ephesians 2:18; Ephesians 3:12).

The Retirement Years

Let Us Encourage One Another

RY 30.1

The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God’s help, His servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” my brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” (Ephesians 3:13) because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in every emergency.—Selected Messages 2:406-408.

Selected Messages Book 2

Courage in the Lord

2SM 407.3

The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God’s help, His servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” my brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” (Ephesians 3:13) because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in every emergency.

2SM 408.2

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” (Ephesians 3:14-21).—The General Conference Bulletin, May 28, 1913, pp. 164, 165.

The General Conference Bulletin

May 28, 1913

GCB May 28, 1913, par. 21

The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appal [appall] us. And yet, with God’s help, his servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” my brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” (Ephesians 3:13) because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; he will go before you by his Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and he will be your helper in every emergency.

GCB May 28, 1913, par. 23

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” (Ephesians 3:14-21).

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

The Promise of Final Triumph

3TT 440.3

The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God’s help, His servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” my brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” (Ephesians 3:13), because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in every emergency.

3TT 441.2

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3:14-21.—The General Conference Bulletin, May 28, 1913, pages 164, 165.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 4, 1913

25LtMs, Ms 4, 1913, par. 21

The work that lies before us is one that will put to the stretch every power of the human being. It will call for the exercise of strong faith and constant vigilance. At times the difficulties that we shall meet will be most disheartening. The very greatness of the task will appall us. And yet, with God’s help, His servants will finally triumph. “Wherefore,” My brethren, “I desire that ye faint not” [Ephesians 3:13] because of the trying experiences that are before you. Jesus will be with you; He will go before you by His Holy Spirit, preparing the way; and He will be your helper in ever emergency.

25LtMs, Ms 4, 1913, par. 23

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” [Verses 14-21.]

Counsels for the Church

God’s Interest in Little Things

CCh 294.3

Both in public and in private worship, it is our privilege to bow on our knees before the Lord when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Acts 9:40; 20:36; 21:5. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. Ezra 9:5. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Daniel 6:10.543Gospel Workers, 178

From Splendor to Shadow

Israel’s Greatest Glory

SS 24.1

Both in public and in private worship it is our privilege to bow on our knees when we offer our petitions to God. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Luke 22:41. His disciples, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Acts 9:40. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father.” Ephesians 3:14. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Daniel 6:10.

God’s Amazing Grace

Come With Reverence, March 24

AG 91.4

Both in public and in private worship, it is our duty*There are instances where Ellen White stood at the desk while offering prayers of consecration during church services. to bow upon our knees before God when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” And of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Stephen “kneeled.” Paul declared: “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 3:14). In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God” (Daniel 6:10). And the invitation of the psalmist is: “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker” (Psalm 95:6).

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Our Attitude in Prayer

GW 178.2

Both in public and in private worship, it is our privilege to bow on our knees before the Lord when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” [Luke 22:41.] Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” [Acts 9:40; 20:36; 21:5.] Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Ephesians 3:14.] In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. [See Ezra 9:5.] Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” [Daniel 6:10.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1510—The Proper Attitude in Prayer

21MR 59.1

I have received letters questioning me in regard to the proper attitude to be taken by a person offering prayer to the Sovereign of the universe. Where have our brethren obtained the idea that they should stand upon their feet when praying to God? One who has been educated for about five years in Battle Creek was asked to lead in prayer before Sister White should speak to the people. But as I beheld him standing upright upon his feet while his lips were about to open in prayer to God, my soul was stirred within me to give him an open rebuke. Calling him by name, I said, “Get down upon your knees.” This is the proper position always. [Luke 22:41; Acts 9:40; 7:59, 60; 20:36; 21:5; Ezra 9:5, 6; Psalm 95:6; Ephesians 3:14, quoted.] And this whole chapter will, if the heart is receptive, be as precious a lesson as we can learn.

Prayer

Chapter 16—Private Prayer

Pr 187.3

It Is Our Privilege to Kneel When in Prayer—Both in public and in private worship it is our privilege to bow on our knees before God when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Acts 9:40. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. See Ezra 9:5. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Daniel 6:10.—(Prophets and Kings, 48.)

Prayer

Chapter 18—Prayer and Worship

Pr 206.1

Both in public and in private worship it is our privilege to bow on our knees before God when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Acts 9:40. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. See Ezra 9:5. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Daniel 6:10.—(Prophets and Kings, 48.)

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 2—The Temple and Its Dedication

PK 48.2

Both in public and in private worship it is our privilege to bow on our knees before God when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.” Acts 9:40. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. See Ezra 9:5. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” Daniel 6:10.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 32—Proper Attitude in Prayer

2SM 312.5

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 3:14). And this whole chapter will, if the heart is receptive, be as precious a lesson as we can learn.

Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1

Chapter 37—The Attitude in Prayer

1NL 119.9

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 3:14. And this whole chapter will, if the heart is receptive, be as precious a lesson as we can learn.

Our High Calling

One With the Church Above, June 10

OHC 167.1

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Ephesians 3:14, 15.

That I May Know Him

One Family in Christ, April 7

TMK 103.1

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Ephesians 3:14, 15.

The Faith I Live By

Lover of All Men, February 28

FLB 65.1

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Ephesians 3:14, 15.

The Upward Look

The Family a Symbol, January 19

UL 33.1

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Ephesians 3:14, 15.

Homeward Bound

Members of the Royal Family, September 7

HB 276.1

For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.—Ephesians 3:14, 15.

Lift Him Up

Think of God Continually, September 8

LHU 265.1

I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:14-16.

Reflecting Christ

Christ’s Purpose to Sanctify and Cleanse the Church, July 19

RC 214.1

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:14-16.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

The Knowledge that Works Transformation

8T 289.5

“For this cause,” Paul says, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Chapter 18—Unity Among Different Nationalities

9T 183.1

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

The Ministry of Healing

The Knowledge That Works Transformation

MH 426.2

“For this cause,” Paul says, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

Testimonies for the Church Regarding the Spirit of Unity

Chapter 1—Unity Among Different Nationalities

SpTB04 6.3

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

The Review and Herald

October 1, 1889

RH October 1, 1889, par. 1

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

One Pattern—Christ Jesus

3TT 381.3

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 71, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, par. 26

“For this cause,” said Paul in writing to the Ephesians, “I bow my knees unto the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:14-19.] All who believe in Jesus Christ, studying His life and voicing His words, will be unable to think of anything that can compare with the excellence of His character; and they will turn from every other representation as dim and imperfect.

In Heavenly Places

Blessings Unlimited, May 31

HP 158.4

To the church at Ephesus Paul wrote: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end” (Ephesians 3:14-21).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 29, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 36

We assembled this morning in the chapel. I gave a morning talk from Ephesians 3:14-21. The Lord gave me much freedom in speaking, and His blessing rested upon me. Oh, that the Lord would impress His people with their high and exalted privilege. Meetings all day of various orders.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 109, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 109, 1893, par. 35

Listen to the words of Paul, “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, the length, the depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” Ephesians 3:14-21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 27, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 27, 1894, par. 27

This is the experience you need, to blend with and make your faith earnest, that it may be effectual to the pulling down of the strongholds of Satan. “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end, Amen.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 43, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 43, 1896, par. 1

How thankful should you and I be that we have Christ as our Saviour. He liveth to make intercession for us; yes, for you and me, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, the length, the depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 2:10; 3:14-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 42, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, par. 33

“We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:10.] “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 12, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 12, 1902, par. 13

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.] Shall we not study the wonderful promises contained in these words? Shall we not appreciate our privileges? Shall we not put far from us all self-love, all desire for the supremacy?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 179, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 179, 1902, par. 23

To the church at Ephesus Paul wrote: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 261, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, par. 12

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]

Spalding and Magan Collection

“Unto Him be Glory.” W. C. W.

SpM 458.3

Elder Starr then asked if she should like to have him pray with her. She replied that she should be very glad to have him pray. He knelt close by her side, so that she could hear well, and after thanking God for his many blessings, in giving to us his truth, and the special part he had enabled Sister White to act in it, he repeated, word for word, very slowly, Paul’s prayer recorded in Ephesians 3:14-21, as follows: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”

The Review and Herald

December 2, 1884

RH December 2, 1884, par. 1

Our General Conference over, we left Battle Creek November 21, to attend a three days’ meeting at Otsego. We rode on the cars to Kalamazoo in company with Eld. Daniels and his wife and Sister McOmber. Bro. Leighton met us there, and took us in his carriage to Otsego, sixteen miles. As we entered the village, we heard the evening bells ringing for meeting, and we were told that there was an appointment for Sister White to speak. I hurried to Bro. Leighton’s house, and back to the church, thinking that if I relied upon my own strength and wisdom I could make excuses and decline; but looking to Jesus for help I opened my Bible, and spoke with great freedom and clearness from Ephesians 3:14-21.

The Review and Herald

June 19, 1888

RH June 19, 1888, par. 1

We came to Fresno, March 16, 1888. The climate is mild, and the city, which has grown very rapidly of late, contains about 10,000 inhabitants. The church here numbers about 100 persons. The present place of worship is a good, comfortable building, but it is altogether too small for the increasing congregation. On Sabbath the house was filled. There were a number of persons present who were not of our faith. I spoke with much freedom from Ephesians 3:14-21. Many precious testimonies were borne in the meeting that followed. We invited those who desired to seek God most earnestly to come forward, and we had a precious season in supplicating the throne of grace. The congregation was composed of men and women of good influence, that, if they meet their responsibilities, will make a strong church.

The Review and Herald

July 5, 1892

RH July 5, 1892, par. 1

Text.—“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” Ephesians 3:14-21.

The Review and Herald

July 1, 1915

RH July 1, 1915, par. 13

Elder Starr then asked if she should like to have him pray with her. She replied that she should be very glad to have him pray. He knelt close by her side, so that she could hear well, and after thanking God for His many blessings, in giving to us His truth, and the special part He had enabled Sister White to act in it, he repeated, word for word, very slowly, Paul’s prayer recorded in Ephesians 3:14-21, As follows: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”

Heaven

Chapter 15—The Earth Made New

Hvn 143.1

Communion With the Faithful of All Ages—There the redeemed shall know, even as also they are known. The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth” (Ephesians 3:15)—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.—The Great Controversy, 677.

Last Day Events

Chapter 20—The Inheritance of the Saints

LDE 298.4

The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth” (Ephesians 3:15)—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.—The Great Controversy, 677 (1911).

The Great Controversy

Chapter 42—The Controversy Ended

GC 677.1

There the redeemed shall know, even as also they are known. The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth” (Ephesians 3:15)—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 42—The Controversy Ended

GC88 677.1

There the redeemed shall “know, even as also they are known.” The loves and sympathies which God himself has planted in the soul, shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages, who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in Heaven and earth,” [Ephesians 3:15.]—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.

The Truth About Angels

When We Get to Heaven

TA 287.3

The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul, shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth” (Ephesians 3:15)—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.—The Great Controversy, 677.

From Here to Forever

The Triumph of God’s Love

HF 410.2

There the loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings and the faithful of all ages, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth”—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed. Ephesians 3:15.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

The Triumph of God’s Love

GrH_c 54.6

There the loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings and the faithful of all ages, the sacred ties that bind together “the whole family in heaven and earth”—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed. Ephesians 3:15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 128, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, par. 19

When conquered, self is hid with Christ in God. It is through the unseen struggles of the “inner man” [Ephesians 3:16] for supremacy, that the world is to be conquered. The crucifixion of fleshly lusts gives the human agent mastery over the devil. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

The Faith I Live By

Strengthened by the Spirit, May 15

FLB 141.1

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

The Upward Look

The Results of Inner Renewal, January 16

UL 30.1

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

Ye Shall Receive Power

A Mind Submissive, October 18

YRP 300.1

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

From the Heart

Strong in Christ, June 4

FH 167.1

That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 124, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 124, 1905, par. 6

Striking its roots deep down into the earth, the tree gains strength to withstand the tempest. So the Christian is to be “rooted and grounded” in the truth, that he may withstand the temptations of the enemy. [Ephesians 3:16, 17.]

Our Father Cares

The Unsearchable Riches of Christ, April 29

OFC 131.1

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

OFC 131.3

Why is it that many who profess to have faith in Christ have no strength to stand against the temptations of the enemy?—It is because they are not strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. The apostle prays “that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19. If we had this experience, we should know something of the cross of Calvary. We would know what it means to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings. The love of Christ would constrain us, and though we would not be able to explain how the love of Christ warmed our hearts, we would manifest His love in fervent devotion to His cause.

Our High Calling

The Unsearchable Riches of Christ, December 25

OHC 365.1

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man. Ephesians 3:16.

OHC 365.3

Why is it that many who profess to have faith in Christ have no strength to stand against the temptations of the enemy?—It is because they are not strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. The apostle prays “that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19. If we had this experience, we should know something of the cross of Calvary. We would know what it means to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings. The love of Christ would constrain us, and though we would not be able to explain how the love of Christ warmed our hearts, we would manifest His love in fervent devotion to His cause.

Counsels on Health

Be Strong in the Lord

CH 593.1

It is so with the soul. The heart is to be carefully kept and guarded. “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:36, 37. Christ must abide in the heart by faith. His word is the bread of life and the water of salvation. Trust in its fullness comes to us through constant communion with God. By eating the flesh and drinking the blood of Christ we gain spiritual strength. Christ supplies the lifeblood of the heart, and Christ and the Holy Spirit give nerve power. Begotten again unto a lively hope, imbued with the quickening power of a new nature, the soul is enabled to rise higher and still higher. Paul’s prayer to God for the Ephesians was, “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19.

The Review and Herald

January 21, 1904

RH January 21, 1904, par. 18

Against this spirit, and against the false religion of sentimentalism, which is equally dangerous, I bear my warning. Take heed, brethren and sisters. Who is your leader—Christ, or the angel who fell from heaven? Are you sound in the faith? My prayer for you all is that God would grant you “according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 87, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 87, 1898, par. 4

This is the truth that is to be proclaimed everywhere. If we only had the leaven of truth in our hearts, we would have for one another the love that Christ had for us. All who know this love are privileged above anything that language can express. To understand it means to understand what Paul meant when he said, “That he would grant you according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man” (through the leaven of truth); “that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height, and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:16-19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 24, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 24, 1900, par. 32

Paul’s prayer to God for the Ephesians was, “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with all might by his spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:16-19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 152, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 152, 1903, par. 24

Against this spirit, and against the false religion of sentimentalism, which is equally dangerous, I bear my warning. Take heed, brethren and sisters. Who is your leader?—Christ, or the angel who fell from heaven? Are you sound in the faith? My prayer for you all is that God “would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:16-19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 145, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 145, 1903, par. 17

Against this spirit, and against the false religion of sentimentalism, which is equally dangerous, I bear my warning. Take heed, brethren and sisters. Who is your leader?—Christ, or the angel who fell from heaven? Are you sound in the faith? My prayer for you all is that God would grant you “according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:16-19.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 817—What Being Saved Means

10MR 294.3

By eating the flesh and drinking the blood of Christ we gain spiritual strength. Christ supplies the lifeblood of the heart, and Christ and the Holy Spirit give nerve power. Begotten again unto a lively hope, imbued with the quickening power of a new nature, the soul is enabled to rise higher and still higher. Paul’s prayer to God for the Ephesians was, “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with all might by His Spirit in the inner man: That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith: that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height: And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:16-19).—Manuscript 24, 1900, 9. (“Words of Instruction to Physicians and Nurses,” April 3, 1900.)

Pacific Union Recorder

December 31, 1903

PUR December 31, 1903, par. 18

Against this spirit, and against the false religion of sentimentalism, which is equally dangerous, I bear my warning. Take heed, brethren and sisters. Who is your leader?—Christ, or the angel who fell from heaven? Are you sound in the faith? My prayer for you all is that God would grant you “according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19.

Reflecting Christ

“Be Filled With all the Fulness of God,” July 20

RC 215.1

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ. Ephesians 3:17-19.

RC 215.3

Again he writes of his desire that the brethren at Ephesus might come to understand the height of the Christian’s privilege. He opens before them, in the most comprehensive language, the marvelous power and knowledge that they might possess as sons and daughters of the Most High. It was theirs “to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man,” to be “rooted and grounded in love,” to “comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” But the prayer of the apostle reaches the climax of privilege when he prays that “ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:16-19).

Selected Messages Book 2

No Excuse for Relaxing Self-Discipline

2SM 222.2

Christ is the ladder that Jacob saw, whose base rests upon the earth, and whose topmost round reaches into the highest heaven; and round after round, you must mount this ladder until you reach the everlasting kingdom. There is no excuse for becoming more like Satan, more like human nature. God has set before us the height of the Christian’s privilege, and it is “to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:16-19).—The Review and Herald, October 1, 1889.

The Retirement Years

Age No Excuse for Relaxing Self-Discipline

RY 67.2

Christ is the ladder that Jacob saw, whose base rests upon the earth, and whose topmost round reaches into the highest heaven; and round after round, you must mount this ladder until you reach the everlasting kingdom. There is no excuse for becoming more like Satan, more like human nature. God has set before us the height of the Christian’s privilege, and it is “to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:16-19).—Selected Messages 2:222, 223.

Letters from Ellen G. White to Sanitarium Workers

Words of Instruction to Physicians and Nurses

SpTB15 22.5

It is so with the soul. The heart is to be carefully kept and guarded. “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Christ must abide in the heart by faith. His Word is the bread of life and the water of salvation. Trust in its fullness comes to us through constant communion with God. By eating the flesh and drinking the blood of Christ we gain spiritual strength. Christ supplies the life blood of the heart, and Christ and the Holy Spirit give nerve power. Begotten again into a lively hope, imbued with the quickening power of a new nature, the soul is enabled to rise higher and still higher. Paul’s prayer to God for the Ephesians was, “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with all might by His spirit in the inner soul; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, the length, the depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:16-19.