EGW WritingsExodus 31
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 3
Read Exodus 31 in the BibleExodus 31:1-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 52, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 52, 1903, par. 10
“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name, Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold and silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee; the tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is there upon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle.” [Exodus 31:1-7.]Exodus 31:1-11
Conflict and Courage
Two Hands for God, March 31
CC 96.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.CC 96.2
The Lord gave an important lesson to His people in all ages when to Moses on the mount He gave instruction regarding the building of the tabernacle. In that work He required perfection in every detail. Moses was proficient in all the learning of the Egyptians; he had a knowledge of God, and God’s purposes had been revealed to him in visions; but he did not know how to engrave and embroider.CC 96.3
Israel had been held all their days in the bondage of Egypt, and although there were ingenious men among them, they had not been instructed in the curious arts which were called for in the building of the tabernacle. They knew how to make bricks, but they did not understand how to work in gold or silver. How was the work to be done? ...CC 96.4
Then God Himself explained how the work was to be accomplished. He signified by name the persons He desired to do a certain work. Bezaleel was to be the architect. This man belonged to the tribe of Judah—a tribe that God delighted to honor....CC 96.5
“And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee” (Exodus 31:1-6).50Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 59, 60.CC 96.6
Among the multitude were Egyptians, who had acted as overseers for such work, and thoroughly understood how it should be done. But the work was not dependent upon them. The Lord united with human agencies, giving them wisdom to work skillfully.51The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 1:1108.CC 96.7
Skill in the common arts is a gift from God. He provides both the gift and the wisdom to use the gift aright.52Letter 60, 1907.CC 96.8
In order that the earthly tabernacle might represent the heavenly, it must be perfect in all its parts, and it must be, in every smallest detail, like the pattern in the heavens. So it is with the characters of those who are finally accepted in the sight of heaven.53Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 60.CC 96.9
Let the workmen in the service of God today pray to Him for wisdom and keen foresight, that they may do their work perfectly.54The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 1:1108.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 39, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 39, 1900, par. 6
“And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee; the tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is thereupon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle, and the table and his furniture, and the pure candlestick with all his furniture, and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering with all his furniture, and the laver and his foot, and the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’s office, and the anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy place; according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do.” [Exodus 31:1-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 29, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 29, 1908, par. 13
“And I, behold I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee. The tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is thereupon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle, and the table and his furniture, and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering, with all his furniture, and the pure candlestick with all his furniture, and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering, with all his furniture, and the laver and his foot. And the cloths of service, and the garments of Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons to minister in the priests’ office, and the anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy place: according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do.” [Exodus 31:1-11.]Exodus 31:1-17
Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Temperance
1SAT 224.2
At this time what will be the course of those who claim to fear God and respect His commandments? Will they be carried away by the apparently overwhelming power of the tide of evil? Will they allow themselves to be tempted by the scorn thrown upon God’s law, to think that it makes no difference what day they keep? Shall they not give heed to God’s word: “Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh He rested, and was refreshed” [Exodus 31:14-17].Exodus 31:1-18
Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]
MR No. 289—Sanctification
5MR 121.3
I spoke on Sabbath. These men [non-Adventists holding responsible positions whose wives were church members] were all there, no less than three of them hanging in the balance. The wind blew so that the pulpit had to be moved near to the people to preserve me from taking cold. I had great freedom in speaking, and told them plainly that the Lord Jesus was in our midst. I asked them to turn to Exodus 31—“And the Lord spake unto Moses saying, [Now, said I, listen attentively to what the Lord is saying unto you this day], speak thou unto the children of Israel saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations that ye may know that I am the Lord that did sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore, for it is holy unto you. Every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death. For whosoever doeth any work therein that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” I read to the close of the chapter. Then I asked them if they would turn away from a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” for the sayings of men, when they see that their assertions are entirely contrary to the Word of God. The Word has made the statement “I am the Lord that do sanctify you” if you observe the Sabbath. This is the only true sanctification in the Scriptures—that which comes from God because of obedience to His commandments. Then we may know that the little companies assembled together to worship the Lord on the day which He has blessed and made holy, have a right to claim the rich blessings of Jehovah. He who has declared that His words are spirit and life, should have their faith in strong exercise, that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies.—Letter 8, 1898, pp. 2, 3. (To Sister Josephine Gotzian, February 11, 1898.)From Eternity Past
Truths Taught by Day of Atonement
EP 248.1
Thus the claims of the law, which demanded the life of the sinner, were satisfied. Then in his character of mediator the priest took the sins upon himself, and, leaving the sanctuary, bore with him the burden of Israel’s guilt. He laid his hands upon the head of the scapegoat and confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” As the goat bearing these sins was sent away, they were regarded as forever separated from the people. Such was the service performed “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” Hebrews 8:5.From Eternity Past
The True Heavenly Sanctuary
EP 248.2
The earthly sanctuary was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices”; its two holy places were “patterns of things in the heavens.” Christ, our great High Priest, is “a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2.EP 248.3
The apostle John was granted a view of the temple of God in heaven. He beheld there “seven lamps of fire burning before the throne.” He saw an angel “having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.” Revelation 4:5; 8:3. Here the prophet was permitted to behold the first apartment of the sanctuary in heaven. Again, “the temple of God was opened,” and he looked within the inner veil upon the holy of holies. Here he beheld “the ark of his testament” (Revelation 11:19), represented by the sacred chest constructed by Moses to contain the law of God.EP 248.4
Paul declares that “the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry,” when completed, were “the patterns of things in the heavens.” Hebrews 9:21, 23. And John says that he saw the sanctuary in heaven. That sanctuary, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original. The sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.EP 249.2
After His ascension, our Saviour was to begin His work as our High Priest. “Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” Hebrews 9:24. Christ’s ministration was to consist of two great divisions, each occupying a period of time and having a distinctive place in the heavenly sanctuary. So the typical ministration consisted of two divisions, the daily and the yearly service, and to each a department of the tabernacle was devoted.EP 249.5
In the great day of final award, the dead are to be “judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:12. Then the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus the sanctuary will be freed, or cleansed, from the record of sin. In the type this great work of blotting out of sins was represented by the services of the Day of Atonement, the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 19c, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 19c, 1874, par. 4
What is genuine sanctification? Read Exodus 31. In that chapter we shall understand the term, for God Himself has defined it. The Lord Jesus had given the special directions how to build the tabernacle. As the children of Israel had been compelled to work on the Sabbath, the sacredness of the day was not preserved. As slaves in Egypt, they had largely lost the knowledge of the Sabbath. This is the reason the commandments of God were given in awful grandeur upon Mount Sinai. The Lord would guard His Sabbath in particular, and He knew the people would forget the commandment of the Sabbath, and in their zeal the workman would say, “This work is the Lord’s and under His supervision, and we can do His work without observing the Sabbath.” Therefore God enforced their observance of the Sabbath. He spoke through Moses to the people.2LtMs, Lt 19c, 1874, par. 5
“Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end on communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” Exodus 31:13-18.2LtMs, Lt 19c, 1874, par. 6
Therefore the seventh day was distinguished as God’s memorial and was to be kept holy unto the Lord that the people “may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify” them. [Verse 13.] This is genuine sanctification.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 85, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 85, 1893, par. 10
The parlor at Brother Wilson’s house was full. Several not of our faith were present. The Lord gave me much freedom in speaking in reference to the near approach of the Son of God in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. I impressed upon them the importance of keeping the Sabbath which the Lord instituted in Eden, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy. I presented before them the Sabbath as a sign, as brought before us in the 31st chapter of Exodus. We then had a social meeting. Elder Wilson made appropriate remarks, and there were quite a number who bore a good testimony. We did not return until nearly 11 o’clock.8LtMs, Ms 85, 1893, par. 25
I brought before them the word of the Lord in Exodus 31:12-18. The Sabbath was to be kept holy, “for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.” That which God has made holy will not become unholy through the assertions or inventions of men. Transgression of the Sabbath of the Lord cannot make it unholy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 19, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 19, 1893, par. 7
I spoke, in a house of worship well-filled with believers and unbelievers, from Isaiah 58. I again presented the Sabbath showing its importance, and that it was not to be regarded as a matter of little moment whether they shall decide to obey the light given or reject [it]. I read to them from the 31st chapter of Exodus, where it is plainly stated that the Sabbath is a sign between God and His people throughout their generations forever. And I read and remarked upon the words spoken by Christ, enshrouded in the pillowy cloud, to Moses from Deuteronomy 7:6-9. “For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 11, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 11, 1894, par. 28
The foundation of many generations is the seventh-day Sabbath of the Lord our God. “This is the sign,” He says in the 31st chapter of Exodus, “this is the sign between me and [you] throughout your generations forever.” [Verses 13, 17.] Well now, what is the matter? They have broken it down, and the world has taken the liberty to take a day that has no sacredness, no sanctity, and they all worship that as the Sabbath. It is a spurious sabbath. God does not accept it. And they worship God as though they had not departed from His ordinances, but they have. Shall we accept this child of Papacy? The Protestant world has taken it, the Protestant world has cradled it, the Protestant world has nourished it, but shall we take it as divine, when God says, “Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work.” [Exodus 20:9.] What shall we do? Work at that broken down line of fence “Thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations, and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.” [Isaiah 58:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 198, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 6
When people inquire, “Who are these people?” shall we be ashamed to acknowledge that we are Seventh-day Adventists? “Oh, they are only Seventh-day Adventists!” Are you ashamed of it? Are any of you ashamed of being Adventists? Jesus Christ Himself proclaimed His second advent! Are you ashamed to repeat the proclamation or to be numbered with those who do? Read carefully (Exodus 31) and see if the Sabbath is anything of which we should be ashamed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 132, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 132, 1898, par. 1
The Bible lies at the foundation of all true education. The faithful student finds that Scripture can only be tested by Scripture. There is no contradiction in the Word of God. The entire revelation which Jesus Christ gave to John is rehearsed by Moses in the Exodus, and in the plagues which the Lord brought upon Egypt.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 32, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 32, 1898, par. 15
If the spirit of Satan entered into unsanctified hearts in the days of Christ to counterwork the requirements of God in that generation, it will surely enter into the professed Christian churches in 1898. History will repeat itself. The Sabbath question will be the point of controversy. But the people who obey the commandments of God have no controversy. They take the Word of God for their guide. Read Exodus 31. Every word is of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 60, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 60, 1898, par. 11
The good things have been woven up with the erroneous, the right all tangled up with the wrong. Frances Willard was the one who in sentiment united with Mr. Crafts to influence in every possible way the legislature to protect and exalt Sunday. She had her Bible. She could read the Word of God. She could have known the law of God, proclaimed in awful grandeur from Mount Sinai. She could have read (Exodus 31), where the Lord specifies in plain words the binding claims of His law and the penalty of transgression. She had ability and could have traced out the evidences upon this important subject.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 8, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 8, 1898, par. 6
I spoke on Sabbath. These men were all there, no less than three of them hanging in the balance. The wind blew so that the pulpit had to be moved near to the people to preserve me from taking cold. I had great freedom in speaking, and told them plainly that the Lord Jesus was in our midst. I asked them to turn to (Exodus 31): “And the Lord spake unto Moses saying, (Now, said I, listen attentively to what the Lord is saying unto you this day), Speak thou unto the children of Israel saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep, for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations that ye may know that I am the Lord that do sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore, for it is holy unto you. Every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death, for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” [Verses 12-14.] I read to the close of the chapter.13LtMs, Lt 8, 1898, par. 8
[Those] who have declared that His words are spirit and life should have their faith in strong exercise that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. “Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] If He is there, it is to enlighten and bless. Therefore as we assemble together, we all have a solemn sense of the presence of God, and know that the angels of God are in the assembly. The messengers of the gospel know by experience its truth, power and excellence. It is the hours of the Sabbath that are sacred and sanctified and holy, and every true worshipper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise, “That ye may know I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 82, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 17
“Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever, for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Exodus 31:12-18.]14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 19
The Lord has stated expressly that truth and life are to be found in the path of obedience. Obedience is the waymark all must follow. God has declared that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord. He has exalted this day as a memorial of His work of creation, plainly stating that it is to be a sign between Him and His people throughout their generations. Twice this is repeated in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, and the speaker is Jesus Christ.14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 21
“Through the non-observance of the Sabbath God instituted, I will bring His law into contempt. The words, ‘A sign between me and you throughout your generations’ [verse 13], I will make to serve on the side of my sabbath. Thus the world will become mine. I will be ruler of the earth, prince of the world. I will so control the minds under my power that God’s Sabbath will be an object of contempt. A sign? I will make the observance of the seventh day a sign of disloyalty to the authorities of earth. Human laws will be made so stringent that men and women will not dare to observe the seventh-day Sabbath. For fear of wanting food and clothing they will join with the world in transgressing God’s law; and the earth will be wholly under my dominion.”14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 22
The man of sin has created a false sabbath, and the professed Christian world has adopted this child of the papacy, refusing to obey God. The enemy of all good has turned the signboard round, so that it points to the path of disobedience. He has insulted Jehovah by refusing to obey a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” He has thought to change times and laws, but has he done this? The words of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus are the answer. With His own finger the Lord wrote the commandments upon the tables of stone.14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 23
“In six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested and was refreshed.” [Verses 17, 16.] “Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” The Creator has plainly stated that after making the world in six days, He rested on the seventh [day], sanctifying and blessing this day as a memorial of creation, and giving it to His people as a rest day, “that ye may know,” He says, “that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.] Thus He desires to test their obedience.14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 27
“They that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places; thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words; then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father.” [Isaiah 58:12-14.] Here is presented a people who turn aside their feet from trampling on the fourth commandment. Please read this Scripture in connection with the words found in Exodus 31:12-18.14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 29
What does the Lord require of us? The observance of His Sabbath, “as a perpetual covenant.” [Exodus 31:16.] God wants every family to bear this sign. Thus we may show that we are loyal and true to His commandments. Look at our world, full of disregard for God, in open rebellion against Him who in a moment could extinguish every soul that breathes the breath of life. What has made the world so full of violence? A disregard of God’s law. This was what filled the earth with rebellion and corruption in the days before the flood. See the regard shown today for the spurious Sabbath.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 186, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 186, 1899, par. 2
“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:12, 13. It is the privilege of every soul who keeps the Sabbath to have this assurance of the sign that God accepts us and sanctifies us to Himself to do Him service. What is true sanctification? Obedience to the law of God. He who claims to be sanctified and is not receiving the sign of perfect obedience is not sanctified. He cannot possibly know that which the Lord invites him to know—true sanctification as distinguished from the spurious, so-called sanctification.14LtMs, Ms 186, 1899, par. 3
I spoke in the chapel, reading from (Exodus 31:12-18) and the entire chapter of (Isaiah 58), explaining some in regard to the Sabbath. Then, after making some earnest appeals, I read important writing of testimony upon home religion and practical godliness. I then invited all those who wished to commence the service of God, and to leave their life of sin, to commence now to become Christians and engage in the warfare against the enemy in the place of warring against righteousness and truth, for they could not know what they were about. I then asked them to come to the front seats and thus show their purpose to turn from all their sinful pranks and no longer consent to be sport for the enemy. Twenty-five came forward. We had a season of heartfelt seeking of the Lord. We could not have dismissed the congregation, for it had been pouring down rain. The Lord gave me the spirit of intercession.14LtMs, Ms 186, 1899, par. 7
Brother Haskell spoke to the congregation in the forenoon and my appointment was at three p.m. We had a social meeting. Many took part and the presence of the Lord was with us. I read to them the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, dwelling especially upon the words spoken by Christ enshrouded in the billowy cloud, (verse 12), to the close of the chapter.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 109, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 109, 1899, par. 4
The worker is to feel an interest in every line of work, and if God has given him foresight and capability and knowledge that will help in any of these lines, he is to feel it is his duty to communicate that which he has received. All the workers, in their various occupations, are to train their minds to do the very highest service. The exactitude, skill, tact, wisdom, and perfection, which God required in the building of the earthly tabernacle, He would have brought into every work that shall be done in His service. Workers are to desire mental strength, that they may do everything according to the pattern shown to Moses in the mount. God requires perfection in every line of work that has to do with His service, and the workers must understand this. Read the thirty-first, thirty-fifth, and thirty-sixth chapters of Exodus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 35, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 35, 1900, par. 11
“Six days may work be done, but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between men and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]15LtMs, Ms 35, 1900, par. 17
This is the work before Seventh-day Adventists. They are to give the warnings to all peoples, nations, and tongues, telling them that God has a law which is as much above man-made laws as the heavens are above the earth. This law is to be proclaimed as the law of God’s kingdom. The truth is not to languish upon our lips. Our words must not be words of peace and safety. Say not to the transgressors, It does not matter what you believe. Bear the testing message for this time. Say to the people as Christ said to Moses, “Six days may work be done; but the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.” [Exodus 31:15.]15LtMs, Ms 35, 1900, par. 19
Through Christ Jew and Gentile may enter the spiritual fold. God will receive all who hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end. These are the only ones with whom He will fulfill the covenant mentioned in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, where God declares that the Sabbath is a sign between Him and His people for a perpetual covenant. [Verses 16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 41, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 41, 1900, par. 6
I spoke to the people Sunday afternoon from Luke 12:22-40. The Lord raised me above my weakness and gave me a decided testimony to bear. Sabbath afternoon I read and made remarks from the 58th chapter of Isaiah, reading in connection with this (Exodus 31), where Jesus Christ made to Moses positive requirements which he was to communicate to the whole encampment. Moses spoke through the trumpet; others gave the same words through the trumpets section by section, until the word of the Lord was made known to all that vast congregation. The trumpet gave a certain sound.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 90, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 90, 1900, par. 8
Thank the Lord this Sabbath has passed and the light of truth has been flashing its beams of brightness upon us. We are grateful because we believe every word God has spoken in regard to the creation Sabbath, the seventh day. It is definitely stated in (Exodus 31): “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” This was not Sunday but the Sabbath God instituted in Eden and set apart and sanctified and blessed. All who observe the Sabbath are honoring God and will themselves be honored.15LtMs, Ms 90, 1900, par. 9
That there shall be no misunderstanding in regard to the day the Lord had blessed He says, “Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” Verses 12, 13, 15-17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 33, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 33, 1900, par. 8
God gave His people the Sabbath as a memorial of creation. It was to point to Him as the only true and living God. It was to be a sign between Him and His people, and was to be observed throughout their generations forever. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus definite directions are given in regard to this sign: “The Lord spoke unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doeth sanctify you. ...15LtMs, Ms 33, 1900, par. 9
“Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested and was refreshed.” [Verses 12, 13, 15-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 80, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 80, 1900, par. 4
In the thirty-first chapter [of Exodus] we are given a plain and direct message on this point. “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.] It is no human power or authority that gives this command. It is the Lord Jesus Christ. He does not say, You may do as you please in this matter. He gives a positive command. “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.”15LtMs, Lt 80, 1900, par. 6
“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.” It is set apart as My institution, to be devoted to religious service. “Everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death.” [Verse 14.] Were the death penalty now carried out, it would deter man from wilful transgression. But “because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, the hearts of the sons of men are fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11.] The Lord bears long with His rebellious human family. He gives all an opportunity to learn the truth from His Word. He has given them a probation, during which they are tested and tried. The death penalty is deferred because Christ our Saviour died in man’s behalf, giving sinful human beings another opportunity to return to their loyalty. Those who will not obey the word of God, but rank themselves with transgressors, those who bear the sign of disobedience, doing their own work on the Lord’s holy day, must at last bear the death penalty.15LtMs, Lt 80, 1900, par. 7
“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. ... The children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:14, 16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 162, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 162, 1900, par. 14
By keeping the seventh day in accordance with the directions given in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, we show to those who are united in a confederacy of transgression that we bear God’s sign, that we are loyal subjects of His kingdom, that we acknowledge Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Thus the line of demarcation is plainly drawn between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. God’s people bear a public sign that they honor Him by keeping His commandments. They are cheerful and happy in the assurance that they receive His blessing.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 138, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 138, 1901, par. 17
John writes, “I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:6-8.] How is this done? By forcing men to accept a spurious Sabbath. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we are plainly told which day is the Sabbath of the Lord. The keeping of the Sabbath is declared to be a sign of the loyalty of God’s people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 152, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, par. 29
We profess to be a peculiar people. More than once in the Old Testament Scriptures we read that He has denominated us in a special manner. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we read: “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, par. 30
“And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon the mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 151, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, par. 27
The day that God requires His people to observe is clearly specified not only in this chapter, but in the thirty-first of Exodus. In Exodus we read: “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, par. 28
“And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 22, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, par. 10
The Lord speaks to those who turn away their feet from the Sabbath. This is the Sabbath spoken of in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, which God declares is a sign between Him and His people. By keeping this day holy, we show to the world that we recognize God as the One who created the world in six days, and rested on the seventh. Earnestly and untiringly we are to bear the message given us, lest time shall pass and people be left unwarned.16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, par. 15
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily, my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death; for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 12-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 116, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 116, 1902, par. 28
In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, the Lord, through His servant Moses, gives very important instruction in regard to the observance of the Sabbath day. “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh (not the first; He does not mention the first) is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 12-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 108, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 108, 1902, par. 6
The line of demarcation between our people and the world must ever be kept unmistakably plain. Our platform is the law of God, in which we are enjoined to observe the Sabbath-day; for, as is distinctly stated in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, the observance of the Sabbath is a sign between God and His people. “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep,” He declares: “for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. ... It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 13, 14, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 183, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 183, 1902, par. 2
The seventh day is the Lord’s memorial. This is plainly stated in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, and its proper observance is urged upon us. All this was presented to me, and I was shown the results of keeping our restaurants open on the Sabbath.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 106, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 106, 1902, par. 23
God’s people are to bear His mark—the sign specified in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus. They are to know how to give, in a few words, in plain, simple language the reasons of their faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 169, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 169, 1903, par. 14
The great test that will distinguish those who keep the commandments of God from those who transgress His law is Sabbath observance. In the thirty-first of Exodus we read:18LtMs, Ms 169, 1903, par. 16
“And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communicating with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 188, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 188, 1903, par. 27
Once more the Lord has special words to speak to His people. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we read:18LtMs, Lt 188, 1903, par. 28
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communicating with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 119, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 119, 1903, par. 13
Once more the Lord has special words to speak to His people. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we read:18LtMs, Ms 119, 1903, par. 14
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communicating with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 173, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 173, 1903, par. 15
This is the Sabbath of the Lord. We are this day to honor God in our conversation. Our hearts must be opened in a special manner this day from beginning to the close of the Sabbath, and there must be shining forth from us the bright beams of the Sun of righteousness. I praise the Lord this morning that I feel rested. I slept well during the night. My heart is at peace with God. I have not any inclination to bring sad thoughts and distress upon my soul on this day which God has sanctified and blessed. Exodus (chapter 31) is so expressed as to leave not a shade of doubt in any mind in regard to our duty to keep holy the seventh day.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 11, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 11, 1903, par. 6
We do not make enough of Deuteronomy and Exodus. These books record the dealings of God with Israel. God took the Israelites from slavery and led them through the wilderness to the promised land. They had almost reached the end of their journey. Spies were sent over the Jordan to view the land and bring back a report.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 131, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 131, 1903, par. 8
After the meeting a lady came up to me, and addressing me with cordiality as a friend, asked me with tearful emotion if I thought that she could be saved and not keep the Sabbath. I answered, “My sister, you have the Word of God. This answers your question. Please read the twentieth chapter of Exodus; also the thirty-first chapter, from the twelfth to the eighteenth verses. Then read the last chapter of Revelation. There we find the promise, ‘Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.’ [Revelation 22:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 50, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 50, 1904, par. 35
We are to bear the sign which shows that we are God’s people. What is this sign? We are told very definitely in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus:19LtMs, Ms 50, 1904, par. 36
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verses 12, 13.]19LtMs, Ms 50, 1904, par. 38
“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death; for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” [Exodus 31:14-16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 167, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 8
In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, from the twelfth to the eighteenth verses, you can see what it demonstrated as the day that God gave in Eden for man’s observance. No one should forget that the Sabbath day was the very day that God finished all His work. He rested and was refreshed, and He gave that day to the world. He gave it to His people, and there you will find in the texts that I have given you how strong is the evidence. Then that is why we are Seventh-day Adventists. That is why we are seeking to enlighten the world, that they shall not meet our Lord over His broken law.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 12, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 12, 1904, par. 30
Those who dishonor the Lord’s Sabbath set themselves in opposition to Him and the laws of His kingdom. Read what God has said in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus in regard to the seventh-day Sabbath.19LtMs, Ms 12, 1904, par. 32
“Six days may work be done; but the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath to observe the sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 12-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 170, 1904
Circa 1904
Previously unpublished.
19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 1
I wish to have all who claim to be the denominated people of God, as represented in Exodus 31:12-18, to see that which Jesus Christ, enshrouded in the pillowy cloud, charged Moses to speak to the children of Israel in regard to the importance of the Sabbath, as contained in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 2
While Moses was in the mount, receiving the law from God, satanic suggestions came through the captains and the elders. They looked on the unbelieving side and worked out their purposes to turn their course back to Egypt. Aaron’s experience and responsibilities were very great; not a thread of the speech of the people should have been woven into their present experience after beholding the great majesty and glory of God. [It] was of such greatness and power that they begged Moses to hear the words from God and give it to them, lest they, hearing [God’s] voice, should not live. All had heard the voice of God and trembled, and their hearts failed them as the words given with a loud voice rolled from the mountain covered with smoke and flame.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 3
Moses was afterward brought within that cloud, and God concealed His great glory, [so] that mortal man, by being [a] partaker of the divine nature, could be strengthened to behold of God all that he could endure. Moses was strengthened to hear, and then to give, the whole substance to the whole encampment.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 4
After the law had been given from Sinai, Moses stood with the people to hear the words of the Lord. Then he was commanded to come up into the mount to obtain the specifications of their service and the details of their obligation in service. [He was in the mount] forty days and forty nights. While all Israel, who had been denominated by their own consent as God’s special people, were awaiting the return of Moses, they themselves should have been in humble converse with God, teaching their children the solemn covenant God had made with them if they would be obedient to the words they had listened to from the mount.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 5
In the absence of Moses’ grand and authoritative influence, Aaron and Joshua found that they were deficient to manage that large congregation of more than a million people. Had every man in office been faithful to do his appointed office faithfully and prayerfully, Satan would not have had such power in his deceptive working on the minds of the people. They lost their faith that Moses would come to them again. They talked and they speculated; they had not the right spirit and did not keep their covenant with God as His denominated people, so that God could fulfill His covenant with them.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 6
While the people had this favorable opportunity to meditate and purify their souls from idolatry, Moses was in that cloud talking with God and receiving the Ten Commandments. Forty days was a limited time for God to communicate His judgment and laws in a book. The whole period could have been spent to the greatest profit in meditating upon the commandments spoken to them in a loud voice accompanied with the greatest magnitude of holy grandeur. There was certainly enough for them to talk about and to impress every officer, every prince in Israel, [who were over] the companies of thousands and hundreds and lesser numbers, but they were becoming jealous, envious, and they brought discouragement. They lost their love one for another and their very faith in the covenant made by the Lord. Supposing they were to speedily enter the promised land, they talked of the things which would [result from] their preeminence, when every man should have worked upon the principles involved.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 7
“And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord spake unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel; Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine; and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel. And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him. And all the people answered together, and said, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord.” [Exodus 19:3-8.]19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 8
Here is the first date of that great charter by which Israel was incorporated. The date was “the third month, when the children of Israel were gone forth out of the land of Egypt the same day came they into the wilderness of Sinai. ... they came to the desert of Sinai, and pitched in the wilderness.” [Verses 1, 2.]19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 9
The law had been given in such awful majesty that the people had entreated that the words might come to them through Moses and not direct from the voice of God, for they could not endure it. After [such] manifestation and such power from Sinai, was there not enough for them to solemnly contemplate—to feel their humiliation—because they had talked again and again their unbelief whenever they were tried and proved? How much had they treasured up of all their experience to establish them and make them certain that the Lord was leading them by Moses and the He would establish His servant Moses, that they should believe Him forever?19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 10
One thing I wish to impress upon all minds—that the first power, their Maker, was the One who ordained the covenant between Himself and His people. The people had revealed their weakness and instability; they were not true and loyal to their God. The more humble are the people of God in their own opinion, the more will the Lord Jesus place them in positions of security, to be persons that can be trusted, if they will make God alone their trust.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 11
When the people were alone, while Moses was in the mount, was the very time God was proving their capabilities to be trusted. They took the words of the Lord, given them on condition of faithfulness and perfect obedience, and lifted themselves up into self-importance, as to be depended upon. How many times must the [Lord] be disappointed through the perverse, unsanctified characters the leaders developed? They became lifted up unto vanity and self-importance, and then came emulation and strife.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 12
In the idolatry expressed in making a golden calf, Aaron was the man responsible, receiving the gifts and fashioning the golden calf. The officers and appointed leaders said, “These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made proclamation, and said, Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord. And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings ... and the people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play.” [Exodus 32:4-6.] [They] mingled their sacred services with their apostasy and rebellion against the Lord. Here we see the ill-effects of a rebellious movement. If God had not commanded Moses to come to Him in the mount and then kept him in His presence, the people might have had cause for complaint.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 13
Ministers in responsible positions are to understand that Satan in watching his opportunity to create disturbances through his rebellious [followers] and get advantage thereby. All can see that the enemy of God and Christ stands watching for his opportunity to obtain advantage. How speedily, when the brakes are not [put] on by men whom God has trusted with His work, will fury and violence, deception and idolatrous actions, reveal the true state of a man’s heart. [They are so] influenced and corrupted by the father of lies who is prepared to act with such zeal and such determination that some will consider these men, who lead away from the truth, are the men who have a zeal for God. The responsible men, in responsible places, are the men who are to be true as steel to their trust. Men who will venture to take steps decidedly opposed to the light God as given, when once they start in a path God has forbidden, will lead many in the same way. And then the disorderly elements will be developed. The man who would never had supposed or thought of such things will be influenced and corrupted by such men as ought to know better; they ought to have distinguished between the true and the false. Oh, may God pity His flock, for they are in need of men solid as a rock, who stand unmoved by any of the pretenses Satan may devise! But many go over on Satan’s side and lie in wait to deceive.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 14
Such a multitude was carried down in the wrong course, the few who abhorred the course dared not open their lips; the rebellion ran so high, [they] feared it would arouse a more fierce determination. They walked contrary to God.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 15
Every kind of supposition was set afloat, every deceptive influence working out the reason for Moses’ detention. Men who were not truly and genuinely converted framed groundless reasons in regard to Moses’ continued absence. “Make us gods to go before us,” [they said.] [They were] weary of waiting for the instruction Moses would bring them, when the Lord had given them the very instruction He wanted them to have. They had [promised that] all that the Lord had said they would obey. But here is their self-assurance. The leaders of Israel, when the call [came,] “Make us gods to go before us,” virtually threw off the charter by which Israel was incorporated. When they said, “Make us gods to go before us,” they exchanged the living God for gods created by the apostasy of Israel; in [their] hearts they returned to Egypt. See Acts 7:39, 40.*****
19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 16
We read Exodus 18:13-24. “And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves. And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land.” [Verses 25-27.]19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 17
Moses, having been called of God to redeem Israel from the house of bondage, was not the law-giver. The Lord Jesus Christ was their Redeemer from the house of bondage, through Moses to act as His agent, receiving the words from Christ and ever stating before the people his authority—the words of the law of God: “The Lord saith. ...” Moses was to answer the questions and make known the will of God.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 18
I would speak to those who have had all the privileges to hear and understand and to live the truth. Those who have had great light should have a high sense of their accountability to God to use that light by setting it on a candlestick that it may give light to all that are in the house—in this world. I have a report to leave, for I am not well. I have been made to understand the position of those at Battle Creek who have had great light and are not walking in the light God’s Word has outlined for them. There will not be a vestige of excuse for one or many that have made a failure.19LtMs, Ms 170, 1904, par. 19
I have not been able to sleep since 12 o’clock, but I have a message from the Lord to bear to our people. Present to the people everywhere at this time the perpetuity of the law of Jehovah. Present to them that the only foundation for Sunday observance has its origin not in the Word of God, but in the papal authority. Now let all consider that the time has come to reason from cause to effect. We must, as ministers of the Word, delay not to impress the people more decidedly in defining our authority for keeping the original Sabbath of Jehovah. Please read the word in Genesis.NP
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 191, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 191, 1905, par. 46
Now we want that everything should done by us so that the people that come out to hear, may have food to eat. Christ will be with them, that they may have a hope. You do not need to go to any neighbor and inquire, What shall I do? You have the Word, and then you may inquire, you may go right to the 31st chapter of Exodus and you will find there, from the twelfth verse to the last of the chapter, just why we are keeping the Sabbath. You will find it all stated. It is stated just as plain as ABC why we are keeping the Sabbath, and the result of keeping the Sabbath. “Ye shall know,” God says, “that I am God, that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.] That is why we are keeping the seventh-day Sabbath.20LtMs, Ms 191, 1905, par. 47
There is not one single thread of sanctification placed in Sunday, only the devil makes it a power, that he should intimidate the people that they shall not keep the very day God has given them to keep. Remember, it is the 31st chapter of Exodus, from the 12th to the 18th verse. Then if you will read there, you can trace out the connections with it. It is just as plain as ABC, for He honors it as His everlasting covenant. Does that change? We do not want you to be deceived. We do not want you to come up to the judgment transgressing the law of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 192, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 192, 1905, par. 12
Verse 12. You read the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, beginning with the twelfth verse and you will see what it means to be a restorer of paths to dwell in. “If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath ....” [Isaiah 58] Verses 13, 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 151, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 151, 1905, par. 10
Suppose that for a time the students cannot be sent out as fully accredited physicians. They can work in connection with other physicians; and if they follow the Lord’s guiding, such valuable opportunities will present themselves that they will gain a better experience perhaps than if they had gone out with a diploma. It is the man’s real value that will give him standing room and influence. The nurse or physician who works with the Lord Jesus will gain success. Read the history of the children of Israel as given in the book of Exodus, and let each soul place himself fully on the Lord’s side. The experience of the Israelites is to be considered by the people of God living in these last days.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 154, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 154, 1906, par. 29
We should remember with what awe-inspiring authority God has set apart the sacred Sabbath as a memorial by which men shall acknowledge that He is God and beside Him there is none else. In the closing verses of the thirty-first of Exodus, God speaks; for we read:21LtMs, Lt 154, 1906, par. 30
(Quote Exodus 31:12-18.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 142, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 34
Verse 12 quoted. I might go on, but we want to know whether you have made up your mind to believe in the commandments of God. These commandments you will read in (Exodus 20), and be sure to let it carry you to (Exodus 31), and there you read from the 12th to the last verse.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 65, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 65, 1906, par. 19
Once more the Lord has special words to speak to His people. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we read:21LtMs, Ms 65, 1906, par. 20
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. ... Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communicating with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12, 13, 16-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 146, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 23
These are the commandments of God. Regarding these holy precepts, and particularly the fourth, we read in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus:21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 24
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verses 12, 13.]21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 26
“The Sabbath is a sign”—how long? “Throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. Every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death.” [Verses 13, 14.] The death penalty is not now required, but it was exacted in the days of Israel for Sabbath-breaking. When a man wilfully went before the congregation and gathered up wood to make a fire, or did some other unnecessary work, he did it against the commandment of the Lord and was cut off from the people because of his transgression. God is very particular regarding the observance of His holy law. And although the death penalty is not now exacted, yet there is coming a time when man must answer for every disregard of God’s law. Upon us rests a solemn duty to study how to observe the Sabbath of the Lord our God and to teach others regarding its sacredness.21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 27
“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. Every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” [Verses 14-16.]21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 28
Do you desire to destroy the covenant between yourselves and your God? “A perpetual covenant” means just what it says. “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever;” God declares, “for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 16, 17.] This is our evidence. You will see ere long that there will be those who will become weary of hearing repeated the things that they ought to do but do not desire to do, and they will change the wording of the Bible. We know what the Lord says in Revelation about those who do that. “A perpetual covenant” is a perpetual covenant.21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 58
We are to make preparation right in this world for the future kingdom home in the heavenly courts; and if we do this, we shall certainly have a converting power upon the minds of others; but we are not half converted ourselves. There are those that keep all the Sabbath, but they do not appreciate it; they do not understand its value. It is a sign—a sign between obedience and disobedience. “It is a sign between Me and you through your generations forever.” [Exodus 31:13, 17.] Now, there is no period of time when you can be lax. Well, what can you say to the world in that great day when the judgments will come, and there is such slackness and looseness, that you have not appreciated the Sabbath even that God has given you as a sign between you and Him? He wants that you should be prepared, that He can let His blessing rest upon you. Sweet tempers, heavenly tempers. Be kind, be courteous.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 107, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 107, 1906, par. 10
The importance of obedience was further impressed upon the minds of the Israelites by the Lord Himself, when, as recorded in thirty-first of Exodus, He “spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.21LtMs, Ms 107, 1906, par. 11
“And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.]21LtMs, Ms 107, 1906, par. 12
In the providence of God, these same commandments that were written with the finger of Jehovah and entrusted with the Israelites are now committed to our care. Upon us rests the solemn obligation of proclaiming God’s law to an impenitent world. The final issue will turn on obedience to the Sabbath commandment, which is so plainly enforced by the Lord Himself, “for a perpetual covenant.” [Verse 16.] Men will labor with an intensity from beneath to make of no effect God’s command regarding the observance of the seventh day; but we are not to be influenced by anything that man may do. Our allegiance to the King of kings must ever be made of paramount importance. We cannot afford to be out of harmony with the Creator of the universe.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 17, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 17, 1906, par. 3
If men had studied the Bible, if they had read the book of Exodus, they would have seen that in the proclamation of God’s law, the seventh day was specified as the day that is to be observed as the memorial of creation. In the fourth commandment, the true and living God is shown to be the one who created the world in six days; and the seventh day is pointed out as the day on which God rested, blessing and hallowing it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 185, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 185, 1907, par. 5
And there will be many discouraging things. The helpers may sometimes feel a spirit to rise against this or that or the other. I have found whole institutions nearly ruined by one talking with another, and another talking with another, and stirring up the jealousy and evil surmisings. Now, do not let this come in, because if you do, you are not learning of Christ. What we want is to be preparing for that city—that is out of sight now, but by faith we can view it—that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Now, if we expect a place in that city, we can have it if we will be obedient to the requirements of God. He has given us the special direction to denominate us as His people. In Exodus we read the conditions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 131, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 131, 1907, par. 13
I have read from the record in the second of Genesis and the twentieth of Exodus. Now I will read from the thirty-first chapter of Exodus: “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” [Verses 1-3.]22LtMs, Ms 131, 1907, par. 15
(Verses 12-15): “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be ... cut off from among his people.” “Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death.”22LtMs, Ms 131, 1907, par. 17
(Verse 16): “Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” How long?—“For a perpetual covenant.” Now, my friends, you have evidence of the truth on these points. The Word of the living God is speaking to you. The voice of God is heard, proclaiming the seventh-day Sabbath as “a perpetual covenant.”22LtMs, Ms 131, 1907, par. 18
(Verses 17, 18): “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 38, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 38, 1909, par. 9
In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we are plainly told which is the day that God has sanctified and blessed. It is the Sabbath given in Eden. After God had created the world in six days, He rested on the seventh and was refreshed. And the Lord set apart the seventh day as the rest day of man. We are not left in ignorance concerning this matter. The keeping of the Sabbath is declared to be the sign between God and His people of their loyalty to Him. God has never changed the day of His rest to the first day of the week.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 80, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, par. 4
Read also the thirty-first and thirty-second chapters of Exodus. After Moses, coming down from the mount, found the children of Israel engaged in idolatrous worship, he “stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord’s side? let him come unto me.” [Exodus 32:26.] In this call all were offered an opportunity to repent and take their stand on the Lord’s side, and receive forgiveness. But those who refused to stand by Moses on this occasion met with a fearful end. Read the painful history, and the instruction given afterward by the Lord to Moses, as recorded in the thirty-third and thirty-fourth chapters of Exodus.Manuscript Releases, vol. 4 [Nos. 210-259]
MR No. 241—On Sanctification
4MR 340.5
What is genuine sanctification? Read Exodus 31. In that chapter we shall understand the term, for God Himself has defined it. The Lord Jesus had given the special directions how to build the tabernacle. As the children of Israel had been compelled to work on the Sabbath, the sacredness of the day was not preserved. As slaves in Egypt, they had largely lost the knowledge of the Sabbath. This is the reason the commandments of God were given in awful grandeur upon Mount Sinai. The Lord would guard His Sabbath in particular, and He knew the people would forget the commandment of the Sabbath, and in their zeal the workmen would say, “This work is the Lord’s, and under His supervision, and we can do His work without observing the Sabbath.” Therefore God enforced their observance of the Sabbath. He spoke through Moses to the people.4MR 341.1
“Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Exodus 31:13-18.]—Letter 19c, 1874, p. 2. (Written to her son Willie, April 20, 1874.)Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1560—Strengthening the Cause in the Sydney Area; The Importance of the Seventh-day Sabbath
21MR 293.3
I spoke on Sabbath. These men were all there, no less than three of them hanging in the balance. The wind blew so that the pulpit had to be moved near to the people to preserve me from taking cold. I had great freedom in speaking, and told them plainly that the Lord Jesus was in our midst. I asked them to turn to Exodus 31: “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, [Now, said I, listen attentively to what the Lord is saying unto you this day] Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people” [Exodus 31:12-14]. I read to the close of the chapter.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 30—The Tabernacle and Its Services
PP 343.1
The command was communicated to Moses while in the mount with God, “Let them make Me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them;” and full directions were given for the construction of the tabernacle. By their apostasy the Israelites forfeited the blessing of the divine Presence, and for the time rendered impossible the erection of a sanctuary for God among them. But after they were again taken into favor with Heaven, the great leader proceeded to execute the divine command.PP 343.2
Chosen men were especially endowed by God with skill and wisdom for the construction of the sacred building. God Himself gave to Moses the plan of that structure, with particular directions as to its size and form, the materials to be employed, and every article of furniture which it was to contain. The holy places made with hands were to be “figures of the true,” “patterns of things in the heavens” (Hebrews 9:24, 23)—a miniature representation of the heavenly temple where Christ, our great High Priest, after offering His life as a sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf. God presented before Moses in the mount a view of the heavenly sanctuary, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him. All these directions were carefully recorded by Moses, who communicated them to the leaders of the people.PP 343.3
For the building of the sanctuary great and expensive preparations were necessary; a large amount of the most precious and costly material was required; yet the Lord accepted only freewill offerings. “Of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering” was the divine command repeated by Moses to the congregation. Devotion to God and a spirit of sacrifice were the first requisites in preparing a dwelling place for the Most High.PP 344.1
All the people responded with one accord. “They came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all His service, and for the holy garments. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willinghearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered, offered an offering of gold unto the Lord.”PP 344.2
“And every man with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and rams’ skins dyed red, and sealskins, brought them. Everyone that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the Lord’s offering: and every man, with whom was found acacia wood for any work of the service, brought it.PP 344.3
“And all the women that were wisehearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun, the blue, and the purple, the scarlet, and the fine linen. And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun the goats’ hair.PP 344.4
“And the rulers brought the onyx stones, and the stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate; and the spice, and the oil; for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense.” Exodus 35:23-28, R.V.PP 344.5
While the building of the sanctuary was in progress the people, old and young—men, women, and children—continued to bring their offerings, until those in charge of the work found that they had enough, and even more than could be used. And Moses caused to be proclaimed throughout the camp, “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing.” The murmurings of the Israelites and the visitations of God’s judgments because of their sins are recorded as a warning to after-generations. And their devotion, their zeal and liberality, are an example worthy of imitation. All who love the worship of God and prize the blessing of His sacred presence will manifest the same spirit of sacrifice in preparing a house where He may meet with them. They will desire to bring to the Lord an offering of the very best that they possess. A house built for God should not be left in debt, for He is thereby dishonored. An amount sufficient to accomplish the work should be freely given, that the workmen may be able to say, as did the builders of the tabernacle, “Bring no more offerings.”PP 347.1
The tabernacle was so constructed that it could be taken apart and borne with the Israelites in all their journeyings. It was therefore small, being not more than fifty-five feet in length, and eighteen in breadth and height. Yet it was a magnificent structure. The wood employed for the building and its furniture was that of the acacia tree, which was less subject to decay than any other to be obtained at Sinai. The walls consisted of upright boards, set in silver sockets, and held firm by pillars and connecting bars; and all were overlaid with gold, giving to the building the appearance of solid gold. The roof was formed of four sets of curtains, the innermost of “fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with cherubim of cunning work;” the other three respectively were of goats’ hair, rams’ skins dyed red, and sealskins, so arranged as to afford complete protection.PP 347.2
The building was divided into two apartments by a rich and beautiful curtain, or veil, suspended from gold-plated pillars; and a similar veil closed the entrance of the first apartment. These, like the inner covering, which formed the ceiling, were of the most gorgeous colors, blue, purple, and scarlet, beautifully arranged, while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were cherubim to represent the angelic host who are connected with the work of the heavenly sanctuary and who are ministering spirits to the people of God on earth.PP 347.3
The sacred tent was enclosed in an open space called the court, which was surrounded by hangings, or screens, of fine linen, suspended from pillars of brass. The entrance to this enclosure was at the eastern end. It was closed by curtains of costly material and beautiful workmanship, though inferior to those of the sanctuary. The hangings of the court being only about half as high as the walls of the tabernacle, the building could be plainly seen by the people without. In the court, and nearest the entrance, stood the brazen altar of burnt offering. Upon this altar were consumed all the sacrifices made by fire unto the Lord, and its horns were sprinkled with the atoning blood. Between the altar and the door of the tabernacle was the laver, which was also of brass, made from the mirrors that had been the freewill offering of the women of Israel. At the laver the priests were to wash their hands and their feet whenever they went into the sacred apartments, or approached the altar to offer a burnt offering unto the Lord.PP 348.1
In the first apartment, or holy place, were the table of showbread, the candlestick, or lampstand, and the altar of incense. The table of showbread stood on the north. With its ornamental crown, it was overlaid with pure gold. On this table the priests were each Sabbath to place twelve cakes, arranged in two piles, and sprinkled with frankincense. The loaves that were removed, being accounted holy, were to be eaten by the priests. On the south was the seven-branched candlestick, with its seven lamps. Its branches were ornamented with exquisitely wrought flowers, resembling lilies, and the whole was made from one solid piece of gold. There being no windows in the tabernacle, the lamps were never all extinguished at one time, but shed their light by day and by night. Just before the veil separating the holy place from the most holy and the immediate presence of God, stood the golden altar of incense. Upon this altar the priest was to burn incense every morning and evening; its horns were touched with the blood of the sin offering, and it was sprinkled with blood upon the great Day of Atonement. The fire upon this altar was kindled by God Himself and was sacredly cherished. Day and night the holy incense diffused its fragrance throughout the sacred apartments, and without, far around the tabernacle.PP 348.2
Beyond the inner veil was the holy of holies, where centered the symbolic service of atonement and intercession, and which formed the connecting link between heaven and earth. In this apartment was the ark, a chest of acacia wood, overlaid within and without with gold, and having a crown of gold about the top. It was made as a depository for the tables of stone, upon which God Himself had inscribed the Ten Commandments. Hence it was called the ark of God’s testament, or the ark of the covenant, since the Ten Commandments were the basis of the covenant made between God and Israel.PP 348.3
The cover of the sacred chest was called the mercy seat. This was wrought of one solid piece of gold, and was surmounted by golden cherubim, one standing on each end. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other was folded over the body (see Ezekiel 1:11) in token of reverence and humility. The position of the cherubim, with their faces turned toward each other, and looking reverently downward toward the ark, represented the reverence with which the heavenly host regard the law of God and their interest in the plan of redemption.PP 349.1
Above the mercy seat was the Shekinah, the manifestation of the divine Presence; and from between the cherubim, God made known His will. Divine messages were sometimes communicated to the high priest by a voice from the cloud. Sometimes a light fell upon the angel at the right, to signify approval or acceptance, or a shadow or cloud rested upon the one at the left to reveal disapproval or rejection.PP 349.2
The law of God, enshrined within the ark, was the great rule of righteousness and judgment. That law pronounced death upon the transgressor; but above the law was the mercy seat, upon which the presence of God was revealed, and from which, by virtue of the atonement, pardon was granted to the repentant sinner. Thus in the work of Christ for our redemption, symbolized by the sanctuary service, “mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10.PP 349.3
No language can describe the glory of the scene presented within the sanctuary—the gold-plated walls reflecting the light from the golden candlestick, the brilliant hues of the richly embroidered curtains with their shining angels, the table, and the altar of incense, glittering with gold; beyond the second veil the sacred ark, with its mystic cherubim, and above it the holy Shekinah, the visible manifestation of Jehovah’s presence; all but a dim reflection of the glories of the temple of God in heaven, the great center of the work for man’s redemption.PP 349.4
A period of about half a year was occupied in the building of the tabernacle. When it was completed, Moses examined all the work of the builders, comparing it with the pattern shown him in the mount and the directions he had received from God. “As the Lord had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.” With eager interest the multitudes of Israel crowded around to look upon the sacred structure. While they were contemplating the scene with reverent satisfaction, the pillar of cloud floated over the sanctuary and, descending, enveloped it. “And the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” There was a revealing of the divine majesty, and for a time even Moses could not enter. With deep emotion the people beheld the token that the work of their hands was accepted. There were no loud demonstrations of rejoicing. A solemn awe rested upon all. But the gladness of their hearts welled up in tears of joy, and they murmured low, earnest words of gratitude that God had condescended to abide with them.PP 350.1
By divine direction the tribe of Levi was set apart for the service of the sanctuary. In the earliest times every man was the priest of his own household. In the days of Abraham the priesthood was regarded as the birthright of the eldest son. Now, instead of the first-born of all Israel, the Lord accepted the tribe of Levi for the work of the sanctuary. By this signal honor He manifested His approval of their fidelity, both in adhering to His service and in executing His judgments when Israel apostatized in the worship of the golden calf. The priesthood, however, was restricted to the family of Aaron. Aaron and his sons alone were permitted to minister before the Lord; the rest of the tribe were entrusted with the charge of the tabernacle and its furniture, and they were to attend upon the priests in their ministration, but they were not to sacrifice, to burn incense, or to see the holy things till they were covered.PP 350.2
In accordance with their office, a special dress was appointed for the priests. “Thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, for glory and for beauty,” was the divine direction to Moses. The robe of the common priest was of white linen, and woven in one piece. It extended nearly to the feet and was confined about the waist by a white linen girdle embroidered in blue, purple, and red. A linen turban, or miter, completed his outer costume. Moses at the burning bush was directed to put off his sandals, for the ground whereon he stood was holy. So the priests were not to enter the sanctuary with shoes upon their feet. Particles of dust cleaving to them would desecrate the holy place. They were to leave their shoes in the court before entering the sanctuary, and also to wash both their hands and their feet before ministering in the tabernacle or at the altar of burnt offering. Thus was constantly taught the lesson that all defilement must be put away from those who would approach into the presence of God.PP 350.3
The garments of the high priest were of costly material and beautiful workmanship, befitting his exalted station. In addition to the linen dress of the common priest, he wore a robe of blue, also woven in one piece. Around the skirt it was ornamented with golden bells, and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet. Outside of this was the ephod, a shorter garment of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and white. It was confined by a girdle of the same colors, beautifully wrought. The ephod was sleeveless, and on its gold-embroidered shoulder pieces were set two onyx stones, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.PP 351.1
Over the ephod was the breastplate, the most sacred of the priestly vestments. This was of the same material as the ephod. It was in the form of a square, measuring a span, and was suspended from the shoulders by a cord of blue from golden rings. The border was formed of a variety of precious stones, the same that form the twelve foundations of the City of God. Within the border were twelve stones set in gold, arranged in rows of four, and, like those in the shoulder pieces, engraved with the names of the tribes. The Lord’s direction was, “Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually.” Exodus 28:29. So Christ, the great High Priest, pleading His blood before the Father in the sinner’s behalf, bears upon His heart the name of every repentant, believing soul. Says the psalmist, “I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me.” Psalm 40:17.PP 351.2
At the right and left of the breastplate were two large stones of great brilliancy. These were known as the Urim and Thummim. By them the will of God was made known through the high priest. When questions were brought for decision before the Lord, a halo of light encircling the precious stone at the right was a token of the divine consent or approval, while a cloud shadowing the stone at the left was an evidence of denial or disapprobation.PP 351.3
The miter of the high priest consisted of the white linen turban, having attached to it by a lace of blue, a gold plate bearing the inscription, “Holiness to Jehovah.” Everything connected with the apparel and deportment of the priests was to be such as to impress the beholder with a sense of the holiness of God, the sacredness of His worship, and the purity required of those who came into His presence.PP 351.4
Not only the sanctuary itself, but the ministration of the priests, was to “serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” Hebrews 8:5. Thus it was of great importance; and the Lord, through Moses, gave the most definite and explicit instruction concerning every point of this typical service. The ministration of the sanctuary consisted of two divisions, a daily and a yearly service. The daily service was performed at the altar of burnt offering in the court of the tabernacle and in the holy place; while the yearly service was in the most holy.PP 352.1
No mortal eye but that of the high priest was to look upon the inner apartment of the sanctuary. Only once a year could the priest enter there, and that after the most careful and solemn preparation. With trembling he went in before God, and the people in reverent silence awaited his return, their hearts uplifted in earnest prayer for the divine blessing. Before the mercy seat the high priest made the atonement for Israel; and in the cloud of glory, God met with him. His stay here beyond the accustomed time filled them with fear, lest because of their sins or his own he had been slain by the glory of the Lord.PP 352.2
The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering, the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offerings for individual sins. And there were also offerings for Sabbaths, new moons, and special feasts.PP 352.3
Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar, with its appropriate meat offering, thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to Jehovah, and their constant dependence upon the atoning blood of Christ. God expressly directed that every offering presented for the service of the sanctuary should be “without blemish.” Exodus 12:5. The priests were to examine all animals brought as a sacrifice, and were to reject every one in which a defect was discovered. Only an offering “without blemish” could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as “a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19. The apostle Paul points to these sacrifices as an illustration of what the followers of Christ are to become. He says, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1. We are to give ourselves to the service of God, and we should seek to make the offering as nearly perfect as possible. God will not be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer. Those who love Him with all the heart, will desire to give Him the best service of the life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will.PP 353.1
In the offering of incense the priest was brought more directly into the presence of God than in any other act of the daily ministration. As the inner veil of the sanctuary did not extend to the top of the building, the glory of God, which was manifested above the mercy seat, was partially visible from the first apartment. When the priest offered incense before the Lord, he looked toward the ark; and as the cloud of incense arose, the divine glory descended upon the mercy seat and filled the most holy place, and often so filled both apartments that the priest was obliged to retire to the door of the tabernacle. As in that typical service the priest looked by faith to the mercy seat which he could not see, so the people of God are now to direct their prayers to Christ, their great High Priest, who, unseen by human vision, is pleading in their behalf in the sanctuary above.PP 353.2
The incense, ascending with the prayers of Israel, represents the merits and intercession of Christ, His perfect righteousness, which through faith is imputed to His people, and which can alone make the worship of sinful beings acceptable to God. Before the veil of the most holy place was an altar of perpetual intercession, before the holy, an altar of continual atonement. By blood and by incense God was to be approached—symbols pointing to the great Mediator, through whom sinners may approach Jehovah, and through whom alone mercy and salvation can be granted to the repentant, believing soul.PP 353.3
As the priests morning and evening entered the holy place at the time of incense, the daily sacrifice was ready to be offered upon the altar in the court without. This was a time of intense interest to the worshipers who assembled at the tabernacle. Before entering into the presence of God through the ministration of the priest, they were to engage in earnest searching of heart and confession of sin. They united in silent prayer, with their faces toward the holy place. Thus their petitions ascended with the cloud of incense, while faith laid hold upon the merits of the promised Saviour prefigured by the atoning sacrifice. The hours appointed for the morning and the evening sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed as the set time for worship throughout the Jewish nation. And when in later times the Jews were scattered as captives in distant lands, they still at the appointed hour turned their faces toward Jerusalem and offered up their petitions to the God of Israel. In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. While God condemns a mere round of ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening to seek pardon for sins committed and to present their requests for needed blessings.PP 354.1
The showbread was kept ever before the Lord as a perpetual offering. Thus it was a part of the daily sacrifice. It was called showbread, or “bread of the presence,” because it was ever before the face of the Lord. It was an acknowledgment of man’s dependence upon God for both temporal and spiritual food, and that it is received only through the mediation of Christ. God had fed Israel in the wilderness with bread from heaven, and they were still dependent upon His bounty, both for temporal food and spiritual blessings. Both the manna and the showbread pointed to Christ, the living Bread, who is ever in the presence of God for us. He Himself said, “I am the living Bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:48-51. Frankincense was placed upon the loaves. When the bread was removed every Sabbath, to be replaced by fresh loaves, the frankincense was burned upon the altar as a memorial before God.PP 354.2
The most important part of the daily ministration was the service performed in behalf of individuals. The repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. By his own hand the animal was then slain, and the blood was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary. In some cases the blood was not taken into the holy place; [See Appendix, note 6.] but the flesh was then to be eaten by the priest, as Moses directed the sons of Aaron, saying, “God hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation.” Leviticus 10:17. Both ceremonies alike symbolized the transfer of the sin from the penitent to the sanctuary.PP 355.1
Such was the work that went on day by day throughout the year. The sins of Israel being thus transferred to the sanctuary, the holy places were defiled, and a special work became necessary for the removal of the sins. God commanded that an atonement be made for each of the sacred apartments, as for the altar, to “cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.” Leviticus 16:19.PP 355.2
Once a year, on the great Day of Atonement, the priest entered the most holy place for the cleansing of the sanctuary. The work there performed completed the yearly round of ministration.PP 355.3
On the Day of Atonement two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the tabernacle, and lots were cast upon them, “one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scapegoat.” The goat upon which the first lot fell was to be slain as a sin offering for the people. And the priest was to bring his blood within the veil, and sprinkle it upon the mercy seat. “And he shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins; and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.”PP 355.4
“And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: and the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities into a land not inhabited.” Not until the goat had been thus sent away did the people regard themselves as freed from the burden of their sins. Every man was to afflict his soul while the work of atonement was going forward. All business was laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel spent the day in solemn humiliation before God, with prayer, fasting, and deep searching of heart.PP 355.5
Important truths concerning the atonement were taught the people by this yearly service. In the sin offerings presented during the year, a substitute had been accepted in the sinner’s stead; but the blood of the victim had not made full atonement for the sin. It had only provided a means by which the sin was transferred to the sanctuary. By the offering of blood, the sinner acknowledged the authority of the law, confessed the guilt of his transgression, and expressed his faith in Him who was to take away the sin of the world; but he was not entirely released from the condemnation of the law. On the Day of Atonement the high priest, having taken an offering for the congregation, went into the most holy place with the blood and sprinkled it upon the mercy seat, above the tables of the law. Thus the claims of the law, which demanded the life of the sinner, were satisfied. Then in his character of mediator the priest took the sins upon himself, and, leaving the sanctuary, he bore with him the burden of Israel’s guilt. At the door of the tabernacle he laid his hands upon the head of the scapegoat and confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” And as the goat bearing these sins was sent away, they were, with him, regarded as forever separated from the people. Such was the service performed “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” Hebrews 8:5.PP 356.1
As has been stated, the earthly sanctuary was built by Moses according to the pattern shown him in the mount. It was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” its two holy places were “patterns of things in the heavens;” Christ, our great High Priest, is “a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2. As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the temple of God in heaven, he beheld there “seven lamps of fire burning before the throne.” He saw an angel “having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.” Revelation 4:5; 8:3. Here the prophet was permitted to behold the first apartment of the sanctuary in heaven; and he saw there the “seven lamps of fire” and the “golden altar” represented by the golden candlestick and the altar of incense in the sanctuary on earth. Again, “the temple of God was opened” (Revelation 11:19), and he looked within the inner veil, upon the holy of holies. Here he beheld “the ark of His testament” (Revelation 11:19), represented by the sacred chest constructed by Moses to contain the law of God.PP 357.1
Moses made the earthly sanctuary, “according to the fashion that he had seen.” Paul declares that “the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry,” when completed, were “the patterns of things in the heavens.” Acts 7:44; Hebrews 9:21, 23. And John says that he saw the sanctuary in heaven. That sanctuary, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.PP 357.2
The heavenly temple, the abiding place of the King of kings, where “thousand thousands ministered unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him” (Daniel 7:10), that temple filled with the glory of the eternal throne, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration—no earthly structure could represent its vastness and its glory. Yet important truths concerning the heavenly sanctuary and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were to be taught by the earthly sanctuary and its services.PP 357.3
After His ascension, our Saviour was to begin His work as our High Priest. Says Paul, “Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” Hebrews 9:24. As Christ’s ministration was to consist of two great divisions, each occupying a period of time and having a distinctive place in the heavenly sanctuary, so the typical ministration consisted of two divisions, the daily and the yearly service, and to each a department of the tabernacle was devoted.PP 357.4
As Christ at His ascension appeared in the presence of God to plead His blood in behalf of penitent believers, so the priest in the daily ministration sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice in the holy place in the sinner’s behalf.PP 357.5
The blood of Christ, while it was to release the repentant sinner from the condemnation of the law, was not to cancel the sin; it would stand on record in the sanctuary until the final atonement; so in the type the blood of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the sanctuary until the Day of Atonement.PP 357.6
In the great day of final award, the dead are to be “judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:12. Then by virtue of the atoning blood of Christ, the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus the sanctuary will be freed, or cleansed, from the record of sin. In the type, this great work of atonement, or blotting out of sins, was represented by the services of the Day of Atonement—the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary, which was accomplished by the removal, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, of the sins by which it had been polluted.PP 358.1
As in the final atonement the sins of the truly penitent are to be blotted from the records of heaven, no more to be remembered or come into mind, so in the type they were borne away into the wilderness, forever separated from the congregation.PP 358.2
Since Satan is the originator of sin, the direct instigator of all the sins that caused the death of the Son of God, justice demands that Satan shall suffer the final punishment. Christ’s work for the redemption of men and the purification of the universe from sin will be closed by the removal of sin from the heavenly sanctuary and the placing of these sins upon Satan, who will bear the final penalty. So in the typical service, the yearly round of ministration closed with the purification of the sanctuary, and the confessing of the sins on the head of the scapegoat.PP 358.3
Thus in the ministration of the tabernacle, and of the temple that afterward took its place, the people were taught each day the great truths relative to Christ’s death and ministration, and once each year their minds were carried forward to the closing events of the great controversy between Christ and Satan, the final purification of the universe from sin and sinners.The Story of Redemption
Chapter 19—The Sanctuary
SR 151.1
The tabernacle was made according to the commandment of God. The Lord raised up men and qualified them with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Neither Moses nor those workmen were left to plan the form and workmanship of the building. God Himself devised the plan and gave it to Moses, with particular directions as to its size and form and the materials to be used, and specified every article of furniture which was to be in it. He presented before Moses a miniature model of the heavenly sanctuary and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him in the mount. Moses wrote all the directions in a book and read them to the most influential people.SR 151.2
Then the Lord required the people to bring a free-will offering, to make Him a sanctuary, that He might dwell among them. “And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses. And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all His service, and for the holy garments. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the Lord.”SR 152.1
Great and expensive preparations were necessary. Precious and costly materials must be collected. But the Lord accepted only the free-will offerings. Devotion to the work of God and sacrifice from the heart were first required in preparing a place for God. And while the building of the sanctuary was going on, and the people were bringing their offerings unto Moses, and he was presenting them to the workmen, all the wise men who wrought in the work examined the gifts and decided that the people had brought enough, and even more than they could use. And Moses proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing.”SR 152.2
The repeated murmurings of the Israelites, and the visitations of God’s wrath because of their transgressions, are recorded in sacred history for the benefit of God’s people who should afterward live upon the earth, but more especially to prove a warning to those who should live near the close of time. Also their acts of devotion, their energy and liberality in bringing their free-will offerings to Moses are recorded for the benefit of the people of God. Their example in preparing material for the tabernacle so cheerfully is an example for all who truly love the worship of God. Those who prize the blessing of God’s sacred presence, when preparing a building that He may meet with them, should manifest greater interest and zeal in the sacred work in proportion as they value their heavenly blessings higher than their earthly comforts. They should realize that they are preparing a house for God.SR 153.1
It is of some consequence that a building prepared expressly for God to meet with His people, should be arranged with care—made comfortable, neat, and convenient, for it is to be dedicated to God and presented to Him, and He is to be entreated to abide in that house and make it sacred by His holy presence. Enough should be willingly given to the Lord to liberally accomplish the work, and then the workmen be able to say, Bring no more offerings.SR 153.2
After the building of the tabernacle was completed, Moses examined all the work, and compared it with the pattern, and directions he had received of God, and he saw that every part of it agreed with the pattern; and he blessed the people.SR 153.3
God gave a pattern of the ark to Moses, with special directions how to make it. The ark was made to contain the tables of stone, on which God engraved, with His own finger, the Ten Commandments. It was in form like a chest, and was overlaid and inlaid with pure gold. It was ornamented with crowns of gold round about the top. The cover of this sacred chest was the mercy seat, made of solid gold. On each end of the mercy seat was fixed a cherub of pure, solid gold. Their faces were turned toward each other and were looking reverentially downward toward the mercy seat, which represented all the heavenly angels looking with interest and reverence upon the law of God deposited in the ark in the heavenly sanctuary. These cherubs had wings. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other wing of each angel covered his form. The ark of the earthly sanctuary was the pattern of the true ark in heaven. There, beside the heavenly ark, stand living angels, at either end of the ark, each with one wing overshadowing the mercy seat, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility.SR 154.1
In the earthly ark Moses was required to place the tables of stone. These were called the tables of the testimony; and the ark was called the ark of the testimony, because they contained God’s testimony in the Ten Commandments.SR 154.2
The tabernacle was composed of two apartments, separated by a curtain, or vail. All the furniture of the tabernacle was made of solid gold, or plated with gold. The curtains of the tabernacle were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged, and in these curtains were wrought, with threads of gold and silver, cherubim, which were to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the heavenly sanctuary and who are ministering angels to the saints upon the earth.SR 154.3
Within the second vail was placed the ark of the testimony, and the beautiful and rich curtain was drawn before the sacred ark. This curtain did not reach to the top of the building. The glory of God, which was above the mercy seat, could be seen from both apartments, but in a much less degree from the first apartment.SR 154.4
Directly before the ark, but separated by the curtain, was the golden altar of incense. The fire upon this altar was kindled by the Lord Himself, and was sacredly cherished by feeding it with holy incense, which filled the sanctuary with its fragrant cloud day and night. Its fragrance extended for miles around the tabernacle. When the priest offered the incense before the Lord he looked to the mercy seat. Although he could not see it he knew it was there, and as the incense arose like a cloud, the glory of the Lord descended upon the mercy seat and filled the most holy place and was visible in the holy place, and the glory often so filled both apartments that the priest was unable to officiate and was obliged to stand at the door of the tabernacle.SR 155.1
The priest in the holy place, directing his prayer by faith to the mercy seat, which he could not see, represents the people of God directing their prayers to Christ before the mercy seat in the heavenly sanctuary. They cannot behold their Mediator with the natural eye, but with the eye of faith they see Christ before the mercy seat and direct their prayers to Him, and with assurance claim the benefits of His mediation.SR 155.2
These sacred apartments had no windows to admit light. The candlestick was made of purest gold and was kept burning night and day, and gave light to both apartments. The light of the lamps upon the candlestick reflected upon the boards plated with gold, at the sides of the building, and upon the sacred furniture and upon the curtains of beautiful colors with cherubim wrought with threads of gold and silver, which appearance was glorious beyond description. No language can describe the beauty and loveliness and sacred glory which these apartments presented. The gold in the sanctuary reflected the colors of the curtains, which appeared like the different colors of the rainbow.SR 155.3
Only once a year could the high priest enter into the most holy place, after the most careful and solemn preparation. No mortal eye but that of the high priest could look upon the sacred grandeur of that apartment, because it was the especial dwelling place of God’s visible glory. The high priest always entered it with trembling, while the people waited his return with solemn silence. Their earnest desires were to God for His blessing. Before the mercy seat God conversed with the high priest. If he remained an unusual time in the most holy, the people were often terrified, fearing that because of their sins or some sin of the priest, the glory of the Lord had slain him. But when the sound of the tinkling of the bells upon his garments was heard, they were greatly relieved. He then came forth and blessed the people.SR 156.1
After the work of the tabernacle was finished, “a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” For “the cloud of the Lord was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.”SR 156.2
The tabernacle was constructed so as to be taken to pieces and borne with them in all their journeyings.SR 156.3
The Lord directed the Israelites in all their travels through the wilderness. When it was for the good of the people and the glory of God that they should pitch their tents in a certain place and there abide, God signified His will to them by the pillar of cloud resting low directly over the tabernacle. And there it remained until God would have them journey again. Then the cloud of glory was lifted up high above the tabernacle, and then they journeyed again.SR 157.1
In all their journeyings they observed perfect order. Every tribe bore a standard, with the sign of their father’s house on it, and every tribe was commanded to pitch by their own standard. And when they traveled the different tribes marched in order, every tribe under their own standard. When they rested from their journeyings, the tabernacle was erected, and then the different tribes pitched their tents in order, in just such a position as God commanded, around the tabernacle, at a distance from it.SR 157.2
When the people journeyed, the ark of the covenant was borne before them. “And the cloud of the Lord was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp. And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, Lord, and let Thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate Thee flee before Thee. And when it rested, he said, Return, O Lord, unto the many thousands of Israel.”The Upward Look
True Sanctification, April 20
UL 124.2
What is genuine sanctification? Read Exodus 31. In that chapter we shall understand the term, for God Himself has defined it. The Lord Jesus had given the special directions how to build the tabernacle. As the children of Israel had been compelled to work on the Sabbath, the sacredness of the day was not preserved. As slaves in Egypt, they had largely lost the knowledge of the Sabbath. This is the reason the commandments of God were given in awful grandeur upon Mount Sinai. The Lord would guard His Sabbath in particular, and He knew the people would forget the commandment of the Sabbath, and in their zeal the workmen would say, “This work is the Lord’s, and under His supervision, and we can do His work without observing the Sabbath....” Therefore the seventh day was distinguished as God’s memorial and was to be kept holy unto the Lord that the people “may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify” them. This is genuine sanctification....From Eternity Past
Chapter 30—The Sanctuary: God’s Dwelling Place in Israel
EP 239.1
The command was communicated to Moses while in the mount with God, “Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” Exodus 25:8. Full directions were given for the construction of the tabernacle. By their apostasy, the Israelites forfeited the divine Presence, but after they were again taken into favor with Heaven, the great leader proceeded to execute the divine command.EP 239.2
God Himself gave Moses the plan of that structure, its size and form, the materials to be employed, and every article of furniture it was to contain. The holy places made with hands were “figures of the true,” “patterns of things in the heavens” (Hebrews 9:24, 23), a miniature representation of the heavenly temple where Christ, our great High Priest, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf. God presented before Moses a view of the heavenly sanctuary and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him.EP 239.3
For building the sanctuary, a large amount of the most costly material was required, yet the Lord accepted only freewill offerings.EP 239.4
All the people responded, “every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation... . And they came, both men and women, as many as were willinghearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold.”EP 239.5
While the building of the sanctuary was in progress, men, women, and children continued to bring their offerings, until those in charge of the work found that they had more than could be used. And Moses caused to be proclaimed throughout the camp, “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the sanctuary. So the people were restrained from bringing.” The Israelites’ devotion, zeal, and liberality are an example worthy of imitation. All who love the worship of God will manifest the same spirit of sacrifice in preparing a house where He may meet with them. An amount sufficient to accomplish the work should be freely given, that the workmen may be able to say, as did the builders of the tabernacle, “Bring no more offerings.”EP 240.1
The tabernacle was small, not more than fifty-five feet in length, and eighteen in breadth and height. Yet it was magnificent. The wood was that of the acacia tree, less subject to decay than any other at Sinai. The walls consisted of upright boards, set in silver sockets, and held firm by pillars and connection bars, all overlaid with gold, giving the appearance of solid gold.EP 240.2
The building was divided into two apartments by a beautiful veil, and a similar veil closed the entrance of the first apartment. These were of gorgeous colors—blue, purple, and scarlet—while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were cherubim to represent the angelic host.EP 240.3
The sacred tent was enclosed in an open space called the court. The entrance was at the eastern end, closed by curtains of beautiful workmanship, though inferior to those of the sanctuary. The building could be plainly seen by the people without. In the court stood the brazen altar of burnt offering. On this altar were consumed all the sacrifices made by fire unto the Lord, and its horns were sprinkled with the atoning blood. Between the altar and the door of the tabernacle was the brass laver made from the mirrors that had been the freewill offering of the women of Israel. At the laver the priests were to wash their hands and feet whenever they went into the sacred apartments or approached the altar to offer a burnt offering unto the Lord.EP 241.1
In the first apartment, or holy place, were the table of showbread, the candlestick, and the altar of incense. The table of showbread stood on the north; it was overlaid with pure gold. On this table the priests were each Sabbath to place twelve cakes, arranged in two piles. On the south was the seven-branched candlestick, its branches ornamented with exquisitely wrought flowers, the whole made from one solid piece of gold. The lamps were never all extinguished at one time, but shed their light by day and night.EP 241.2
Just before the veil separating the holy place from the most holy and the immediate presence of God stood the golden altar of incense. Upon this altar the priest was to burn incense every morning and evening; its horns were touched with the blood of the sin offering and sprinkled with blood upon the great Day of Atonement. The fire on this altar was kindled by God Himself. Day and night the holy incense diffused its fragrance throughout the sacred apartments and far around the tabernacle.EP 241.3
Beyond the inner veil was the holy of holies, where centered the symbolic service of atonement and intercession, the connecting link between heaven and earth. In this apartment was the ark, overlaid within and without with gold, a depository for the tables of stone, the Ten Commandments. It was called the ark of God’s testament, the ark of the covenant, since the Ten Commandments were the basis of the covenant made between God and Israel.EP 241.4
The cover of the chest was called the mercy seat. This was wrought of one solid piece of gold, surmounted by golden cherubim on each end. The position of the cherubim, with their faces turned toward each other and looking reverently downward toward the ark, represented the reverence with which the heavenly host regard the law of God and their interest in the plan of redemption.EP 242.1
Above the mercy seat was the Shekinah, the manifestation of the divine Presence. Divine messages were sometimes communicated to the high priest by a voice from the cloud.EP 242.3
No language can describe the glory within the sanctuary. The gold-plated walls reflecting light from the golden candlestick; the table, and altar of incense, glittering with gold; beyond the second veil the sacred ark, and above it the holy Shekinah, the manifestation of Jehovah’s presence—all were but a dim reflection of the glories of the temple of God in heaven, the great center of the work for man’s redemption.EP 242.4
About half a year was occupied in building the tabernacle. When it was completed, Moses examined all the work of the builders. “As the Lord had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.” The multitude of Israel crowded around to look upon the sacred structure. The pillar of cloud floated over the sanctuary, and “the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” There was a revealing of the divine majesty, and for a time even Moses could not enter. With deep emotion the people beheld the token that the work of their hands was accepted. A solemn awe rested upon all. The gladness of their hearts welled up in tears of joy. God had condescended to abide with them.EP 242.5
In the days of Abraham, the priesthood was the birthright of the eldest son. Now, instead of the first-born, the Lord accepted the tribe of Levi for the work of the sanctuary. However, Aaron and his sons alone were permitted to minister before the Lord; the rest of the tribe were entrusted with the charge of the tabernacle and its furniture.EP 243.1
A special dress was appointed for the priests. The robe of the common priest was of white linen, woven in one piece, confined about the waist by a white linen girdle embroidered in blue, purple, and red. A linen turban or miter completed his outer costume. The priests were to leave their shoes in the court before entering the sanctuary, and also to wash both their hands and feet before ministering in the tabernacle. Thus was taught the lesson that all defilement must be put away from those who would approach the presence of God.EP 243.2
The garments of the high priest were of costly material and beautiful workmanship. In addition to the linen dress of the common priest, he wore a robe of blue, also woven in one piece. Around the skirt it was ornamented with golden bells, and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet. The ephod, a shorter garment, was confined by a girdle of the same colors. The ephod was sleeveless, and on its shoulder pieces were set two onyx stones bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.EP 243.4
At the right and left of the breastplate were two large stones known as the Urim and Thummim. When questions were brought before the Lord, a halo of light encircling the stone at the right was a token of divine approval, while a cloud shadowing the stone at the left was evidence of denial.EP 244.1
Everything connected with the apparel and deportment of the priests was to impress the beholder with the holiness of God and the purity required of those who came into His presence.EP 244.3
No mortal eye but that of the high priest was to look upon the inner apartment of the sanctuary. Only once a year could he enter there. The people in reverent silence awaited his return, their hearts uplifted in prayer for the divine blessing. Before the mercy seat the high priest made the atonement for Israel, and in the cloud of glory, God met with him. His stay beyond the accustomed time filled them with fear, lest because of their sins or his own he had been slain by the glory of the Lord.EP 244.4
Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar, symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation and their constant dependence upon the atoning blood of Christ. Only an offering “without blemish” could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as “a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19. The apostle Paul says, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1. Those who love Him with all the heart will desire to give Him the best service of the life, constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with His will.EP 245.1
In the offering of incense the priest was brought more directly into the presence of God than any other act of the daily ministration. The glory of God manifested above the mercy seat was partially visible from the first apartment. When the priest offered incense before the Lord, he looked toward the ark; and as the divine glory descended upon the mercy seat and filled the most holy place, often the priest was obliged to retire to the door of the tabernacle. As the priest looked by faith to the mercy seat which he could not see, so the people of God are now to direct their prayers to Christ, their great High Priest, who is pleading in their behalf in the sanctuary above.EP 245.2
The incense represents the merits and intercession of Christ, His perfect righteousness, which through faith is imputed to His people and which can alone make the worship of sinful beings acceptable to God. By blood and by incense God was to be approached—symbols pointing to the great Mediator through whom alone mercy and salvation can be granted to the repentant soul.EP 245.3
As the priests morning and evening entered the holy place, the daily sacrifice was ready to be offered upon the altar in the court. This was a time of intense interest; the worshipers at the tabernacle were to engage in searching of the heart and confession of sin. Their petitions ascended with the cloud of incense, while faith laid hold upon the merits of the promised Saviour prefigured by the atoning sacrifice. In later times the Jews, scattered as captives in distant lands, still at the appointed hour turned their faces toward Jerusalem and offered their petitions to the God of Israel. In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. God looks with great pleasure upon those who bow morning and evening to seek pardon and present their requests for blessings.EP 246.1
The showbread was a perpetual offering, part of the daily sacrifice. It was ever before the face of the Lord (Exodus 25:30), an acknowledgment of man’s dependence upon God for both temporal and spiritual food, received only through the mediation of Christ. God had fed Israel with bread from heaven, and they were still dependent upon His bounty, both for temporal food and spiritual blessings. Both the manna and the showbread pointed to Christ, the living Bread. He Himself said, “I am the living Bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:48-51. The bread was removed every Sabbath, to be replaced by fresh loaves.EP 246.2
The most important part of the daily ministration was the service in behalf of individuals. The repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. By his own hand the animal was then slain, and the blood was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary. In some cases the blood was not taken into the holy place. (See Appendix, Note 5.) But the flesh was eaten by the priest, as Moses directed, saying, “God hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation.” Leviticus 10:17. Both ceremonies symbolized the transfer of sin from the penitent to the sanctuary.EP 246.3
Such was the work that went on day by day throughout the year. The sins of Israel being thus transferred to the sanctuary, the holy places were defiled, and a special work became necessary for the removal of the sins. God commanded that an atonement be made for each of the sacred apartments, as for the altar, to “cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.” Leviticus 16:19.EP 246.4
Once a year, on the great Day of Atonement, the high priest entered the most holy place for the cleansing of the sanctuary. Two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the tabernacle and lots were cast upon them, “one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scapegoat.” The goat upon which the first lot fell was slain as a sin offering for the people. The priest was to bring his blood within the veil and sprinkle it upon the mercy seat. “And he shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins: and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation.”EP 247.1
“And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: and the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited.” Not until the goat had thus been led away did the people regard themselves as freed from the burden of their sins. Every man was to afflict his soul while the work of atonement was going forward. All business was laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel spent the day in solemn humiliation before God, with prayer, fasting, and deep searching of heart.EP 247.2
Important truths concerning the atonement were taught by this yearly service. In the sin offerings presented during the year, a substitute had been accepted in the sinner’s stead, but the blood of the victim had not made full atonement for the sin. It had only provided a means by which the sin was transferred to the sanctuary. By the offering of blood, the sinner confessed the guilt of his transgression and expressed faith in Him who was to take away the sin of the world. But he was not entirely released from the condemnation of the law. On the Day of Atonement the high priest, having taken an offering for the congregation, went into the most holy place with the blood and sprinkled it upon the mercy seat, above the tables of the law.EP 249.1
Important truths concerning the heavenly sanctuary and the work there carried forward for man’s redemption were to be taught by the earthly sanctuary and its services.EP 249.3
Christ at His ascension appeared in the presence of God to plead His blood in behalf of penitent believers. So the priest in the daily ministration sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice in the holy place in the sinner’s behalf.EP 249.4
The blood of Christ, while it was to release the repentant sinner from the condemnation of the law, was not to conceal the sin; it would stand on record in the sanctuary until the final atonement. So in the type the blood of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the sanctuary until the Day of Atonement.EP 249.6
In the final atonement the sins of the truly penitent are to be blotted from the records of heaven, no more to be remembered or come into mind. So in the type they were borne away into the wilderness, forever separated from the congregation.EP 250.1
Since Satan is the direct instigator of all the sins that caused the death of the Son of God, justice demands that Satan suffer the final punishment. Christ’s work for the redemption of men and the purification of the universe from sin will be closed by placing these sins upon Satan, who will bear the final penalty. So in the typical service, the yearly round of ministration closed with the purification of the sanctuary and the confessing of the sins on the head of the scapegoat.EP 250.2
Thus in the ministration of the tabernacle the people were taught each day the great truths relative to Christ’s death and ministration, and once each year their minds were carried forward to the closing events of the great controversy between Christ and Satan, the final purification of the universe from sin and sinners.From Eternity Past
Two Apartments Symbolize Two Phases of Ministry
EP 242.2
The law of God within the ark was the great rule of righteousness and judgment. That law pronounced death upon the transgressor; but above the law was the mercy seat. By virtue of the atonement, pardon was granted to the repentant sinner. “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10.From Eternity Past
A Dim Reflection of Heavenly Glory
EP 243.3
Over the ephod was the breastplate in the form of a square, suspended from the shoulders by a cord of blue. The border was formed of a variety of precious stones, the same that form the twelve foundations of the City of God. The Lord’s direction was, “Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually.” Exodus 28:29. So Christ, the great High Priest, pleading His blood in the sinner’s behalf, bears upon His heart the name of every repentant, believing soul.From Eternity Past
The Sanctuary Ministry a Foreshadow of Heavenly Things
EP 244.2
Not only the sanctuary but the ministry of the priests was to “serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” Hebrews 8:5. The ministration consisted of two divisions, a daily and a yearly service. The daily service was performed at the altar of burnt offering in the court of the tabernacle and in the holy place, while the yearly service was in the most holy.Exodus 31:2-3
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
The Common Arts
CT 314.1
Skill in the common arts is a gift from God. He provides both the gift and wisdom to use the gift aright. When He desired a work done on the tabernacle He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” Exodus 31:2, 3. Through the prophet Isaiah the Lord said, “Give ye ear, and hear My voice; hearken, and hear My speech. Doth the plowman plow all day to sow? doth he open and break the clods of his ground? When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cumin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rye in their place? For his God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him.This Day With God
Gifts to Fit Our Need, December 2
TDG 345.1
See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. Exodus 31:2, 3.Ye Shall Receive Power
God Can Use Common Skills, July 18
YRP 208.2
Skill in the common arts is a gift from God. He provides both the gift and wisdom to use the gift aright. When He desired a work done on the tabernacle, He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship” (Exodus 31:2, 3). Through the prophet Isaiah the Lord said, “Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech. Doth the plowman plow all day to sow? doth he open and break the clods of his ground?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 60, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, par. 6
Skill in the common arts is a gift from God. He provides both the gift and the wisdom to use the gift aright. When He desired a work done on the tabernacle, He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” [Exodus 31:2, 3.]Exodus 31:2-6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 71, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 6
When the tabernacle was to be erected, the Lord instructed Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, ... and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.” [Exodus 31:2-5.]18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 7
But Bezaleel was not to work alone. God chose another man to stand at his side to help him. “Behold,” He said, “I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise-hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Verse 6.]Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 25—Talents
COL 349.1
It was Christ who gave to the builders of the tabernacle wisdom to execute the most skillful and beautiful workmanship. He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” Exodus 31:2-6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 9, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 9, 1899, par. 17
When preparations were being made for the building of the tabernacle, God said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God in wisdom, and understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning work, to work in gold and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:2-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 260, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 260, 1903, par. 6
When help was required for the building of the tabernacle, the Lord said to Moses: “See, I have called by name Bezaleel ... of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab ... of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise-hearted, I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:2-6.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Heavenly Architect, July 30
JNN 224.4
It was Christ who gave to the builders of the tabernacle wisdom to execute the most skillful and beautiful workmanship. He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee” (Exodus 31:2-6).Exodus 31:2-11
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 82, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 82, 1908, par. 5
In the calling and qualifying of Bezaleel and Aholiab for the work of the tabernacle, we are plainly taught who is the true source of wisdom. The Lord said to Moses, “I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. ... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise-hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee; the tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy-seat that is thereupon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle, and the table and his furniture, and the pure candlestick with all his furniture, [and the altar of incense, and the altar of burnt offering with all his furniture,] and the laver and his foot, and the cloths of service, and the holy garments of Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priests’ office, and the anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy place: according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do.” [Exodus 31:2, 3, 6-11.]Exodus 31:2-17
Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1305—The Message in Revelation
18MR 31.1
“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed” [Exodus 31:2-17].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 69, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, par. 18
“See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God; in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. ... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:2, 3, 6.]19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, par. 26
For forty days Moses was in the mount. While there he received directions for the building of a sanctuary in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. For the third time the observance of the Sabbath was enjoined. “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever,” God declared, “that ye may know that I am Jehovah that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. ... Whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” [Exodus 31:17, 13, 14.]Exodus 31:3
My Life Today
Wisdom for My Work, April 16
ML 110.1
I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. Exodus 31:3.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Opportunities in Commercial Work
7T 161.3
The workmen may think themselves doing only worldly business, when they are engaged in the very work that will call out questions in regard to the faith and principles they hold. If they are of the right spirit they will be able to speak words in season. If the light of heavenly truth and love is in them, it cannot but shine out. The very manner in which they conduct business will make manifest the working of divine principles. Of our workers, the artisans, as of one of old, it may be said: “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” Exodus 31:3.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Exodus 31:1-6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 100, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 100, 1899, par. 10
In Egypt the Israelites had been accustomed to see splendor and grandeur connected with anything kingly. God knew they would not be impressed unless there was some outward display. He let them have this, and gave men of His appointment skill and tact to do the work. Jesus Christ talked with Moses and gave him directions. He told him that He had given men understanding and intelligence. “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. ... And in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:1-3, 6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 44, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 44, 1903, par. 21
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. ... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahismach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:1-3, 6.]Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
The Heavenly Pattern
CT 59.5
“And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” Exodus 31:1-6.Education
Chapter 5—The Education of Israel
Ed 36.5
“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” Exodus 31:1-6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 18, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 17
From the arrangements made for the building of the tabernacle we see from whence man gets his strength, skill, and education. We read, “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahismach, of the tribe of Dan, and in the hearts of all who are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded them.” [Exodus 31:1-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 26, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 26, 1899, par. 44
When these men put in a plea to be remunerated for working in their own human judgment, and closed their ears and eyes to the warnings of the Spirit of God, some would never see clearly again. These men have shown their blindness. They have imperiled the cause, and brought about the withdrawal of the Spirit of God from giving prosperity to His work. All this is the result of the unsanctified inventions of men. Please read Exodus 31:1-6; 21:29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 41, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 41, 1899, par. 13
Please read verses one to six of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, also verses thirty to thirty-five of the thirty-fifth chapter, and verses one to three of the thirty-sixth chapter.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 142, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 142, 1899, par. 7
God employed men to rear the Jewish tabernacle, giving them skill and efficiency for their work. We read, “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, ... and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship, ... And in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:1-6.] “Then wrought Bezaleel ... and every wise hearted man, in whom the Lord has put wisdom and understanding.” [Exodus 36:1.] Thus heavenly intelligences co-operated with the workmen whom God Himself selected. Thus the church on earth must unite with the heavenly intelligences in doing God’s work for this time.