EGW WritingsExodus 31

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 14—Commercial Versus Denominational Printing

PM 160.2

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.—Testimonies for the Church 7:161, 162.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Opportunities in Commercial Work

3TT 162.1

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.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 2, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 2, 1898, par. 12

Now, just now, every right effort should be made to bring the minds of men under the influence and power of truth, that our work, our merchandise and hire, shall be holiness unto the Lord. The workmen may rank themselves as doing worldly business, when they are doing the very work that will call out questions. If they are of the right spirit, they will be able to speak a word in season. Thus it may be said of our workers, our artisans, as it was said of those of old, of whom we read, “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 in carving of timbers, to work in all manner of workmanship.” [Exodus 31:3-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 39, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 39, 1899, par. 17

In the past the Book Committee has been composed of men who know nothing of book making. They have assembled in council to consider matters that they knew nothing about. They have voiced the opinions of men who were double minded, who did not conscientiously keep the fear of God before them. The Lord has given direction regarding the carrying forward of His work. Concerning the man He had appointed to do a certain work, He said, “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 wise hearted (who have made the best use of their talents that they might distinguish between the sacred and the common) I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:3, 6.]

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Letter 108, 1898

2SAT 132.5

All work in business lines should be done on scriptural lines. The tact that the Lord has given us should be used not to defraud but to encourage holiness unto the Lord. Of one whom the Lord chose to do a certain work, He said, “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 31:3-5]. Here we have assurance that from God comes the talent of wisdom to do the work He has appointed. Read verses 6-11. There was no need for any man to be exalted in this matter. It was the Holy One of Israel who had commissioned these men to do this work, and who had given them wisdom to accomplish it after His own plan.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 108, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 108, 1898, par. 13

All work in business lines should be done on Scriptural lines. The tact that the Lord has given us should be used not to defraud, but to encourage holiness unto the Lord. Of one whom the Lord chose to do a certain work, He said, “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 31:3-5.] Here we have assurance that from God comes the talent of wisdom to do the work He has appointed. Read verses 6-11. There was no need for any man to be exulted in this matter. It was the Holy One of Israel who had commissioned these men to do this work, and who had given them wisdom to accomplish it after His own plan.

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

MR No. 1517—Dedication of Paradise Valley Sanitarium; Results of the San Francisco Earthquake; Defense of the True Sabbath

21MR 88.3

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: (Quote Exodus 31:12-18.)

21MR 89.2

The patient tenderness with which God instructed the Israelites and prepared them for receiving His law, is revealed in the nineteenth of Exodus: “Ye have seen,” He declared, “what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings.” (Quote verses 4-9.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1403—Calamities and the Great Controversy

19MR 281.3

All these symbolical representations serve a double purpose. From them God’s people learn not only that the physical forces of the earth are under the control of the Creator, but also that under His control are the religious movements of the nations. Especially is this true with reference to the enforcement of Sunday observance. He who gave His people, through His servant Moses, instruction in regard to the sanctity of the Sabbath—as recorded in Exodus 31:11-18—will in the hour of trial preserve those who keep this day as a sign of loyalty to Him. God’s commandment-keeping people believe that He will fulfill His promise to protect them. By actual experience they know that the Lord sanctifies them and grants to them the seal of His approval as commandment keepers. Those who read the Scriptures with an intense desire to know what the Spirit saith unto the churches, know that God lives and reigns.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 153, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 153, 1902, par. 7

All the symbolical representations serve a double purpose. From them God’s people learn not only that the physical forces of the earth are under the control of the Creator, but also that under his control are the religious movements of the nations. Especially is this true with reference to the enforcement of Sunday observance. He who gave His people, through His servant Moses, instruction in regard to the sanctity of the Sabbath—as recorded in (Exodus 31:11-18)—will in the hour of trial preserve those who keep this day as a sign of loyalty to Him. God’s commandment-keeping people believe that He will fulfil His promise to protect them. By actual experience they know that the Lord sanctifies them and grants to them the seal of His approval as commandment keepers. Those who read the Scriptures with an intense desire to know what the Spirit saith unto the churches know that God lives and reigns.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 68, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 68, 1899, par. 11

The Lord would have Seventh-day Adventists remember that they bear the badge of loyalty to God in the observance of the Sabbath which He has sanctified and blessed and honored. “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, Verily, my Sabbaths ye shall keep, for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:12, 13.] Israel was to be stamped with the government mark.

14LtMs, Ms 68, 1899, par. 12

All who keep the Sabbath in truth bear the mark of loyalty to God. They are representatives of his kingdom. Their light is to shine forth to others in good works. We are not merely to observe the Sabbath as a legal matter, we are to be intelligent in regard to its spiritual bearing upon all the transactions of life. God says, “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.] This is sanctification through the truth. When we are thus sanctified, we shall not have a spurious faith, a spurious doctrine, a spurious experience.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 185, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 185, 1899, par. 49

The Lord would have Seventh-day Adventists ever consider that they bear the badge of loyalty to God in the observance of the Sabbath. He has sanctified and blessed and hallowed it. “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 men and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:12, 13. The Sabbath was to be Israel’s sign, stamped with the government mark.

The Three Angels’ Messages

“And receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand”

3AM 89.2

The mark of the beast is the opposite of the seal of God—The sign or seal of God is the observance of the seventh day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of His work of creation. “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.] Here the Sabbath is clearly defined as a sign between God and His people.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

The Opposition of the Enemy

8T 117.3

The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation. “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. Here the Sabbath is clearly designated as a sign between God and His people.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast

3TT 232.2

The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation. “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. Here the Sabbath is clearly designated as a sign between God and His people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 1, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 1, 1897, par. 15

This is the message given by God to be sounded forth in the loud cry of the third angel. The sign or seal of God is the observance of the seventh day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of His work of creation. “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.] Here the Sabbath is clearly defined as a sign between God and His people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 231, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 231, 1899, par. 12

I carry this people on my heart day and night. God is calling for them. “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 my Sabbaths, therefore; for it is holy unto you.” [Exodus 31:12-14.] How can we open the eyes that have so long been blinded? Shall Christ give this plain requirement in vain? Shall He be compelled to say to the people in Maitland and Newcastle, “Ye would not come unto me that ye might have life”? [John 5:40.] What is the life of which He speaks? A life that measures with the life of God. A treasure in the heavens that faileth not.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 28, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 28, 1900, par. 26

“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. Everyone 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.” [Exodus 31:12-15.]

15LtMs, Ms 28, 1900, par. 27

How positive, how definite are these words. By the observance of the seventh day, we may show that we are the people of God. God designed the observance of the Sabbath to be a means of keeping His people separate from the world and of preserving a knowledge of Him. Christ prayed, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whim thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] A right knowledge of God is everything to the human family. Men and women become holy as they gain correct views of their Creator. The observance of the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to God, and a pledge of His power and willingness to sanctify. “That ye may know,” He says, “that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.] This is His covenant of peace with all who obey Him, His pledge that He will do as He has promised.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 93, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 93, 1902, par. 57

Refraining from work on Sunday is not receiving the mark of the beast; and where this will advance the interests of the cause, it should be done. Let us, if advisable, spend this time in missionary effort. God’s mark, or sign, is His Sabbath, as is revealed in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, verses twelve to fifteen. The Lord declares, “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep.” [Verse 13.] This we can do so long as we are at liberty; but if at any time we should be placed in the chain gang, it is possible that we would be compelled to work on the Sabbath, or else suffer the penalty, which may be death. Especially is this true of the colored people. We must take into consideration the conditions as they exist and act like men and women of good judgment. We must learn to use sanctified common sense.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 192, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 192, 1908, par. 6

“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; everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death. ... Six days may work be done, but in the seventh day is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord.” [Exodus 31:12-15.] We see in these words the importance that is given to the seventh-day Sabbath. It is to be held as a heavenly memorial, and its observance is the sign of obedience and loyalty to God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 22, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 22, 1895, par. 21

“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak ye 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.” “Six days may work be done; but the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy unto the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath of the Lord shall surely be put to death.” Has Satan succeeded in removing the sanctity from the day thus distinguished above all others? He has succeeded in putting another day in its stead, but never can he take from it the blessing of the Lord. “Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” [Exodus 31:12, 13, 15, 16.] What can be more positive and clear than these words? And has God changed? He will remain the same through all eternity, but man “has sought out many inventions.” [Ecclesiastes 7:29.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

The Sabbath

9T 212.2

“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. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: everyone 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.” Exodus 31:12-16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 63, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 63, 1897, par. 5

“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 holy 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 unto 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 31:12-16.]

12LtMs, Ms 63, 1897, par. 9

The day God set apart to be kept free from secular labor He designed should be respected in commemoration for His wisdom, power, and goodness in creating the world and man. It was instituted before the Jews were distinguished as a people, and was given to all mankind to keep holy, “that ye may know,” God declares, “that I am the Lord which do sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 183, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 183, 1899, par. 24

I thank the Lord for the good work being done at Newcastle. A church will have to be built very soon, and I was so much pleased to see the people before me listening interestedly, with tears in their eyes, as I tried to impress upon them the necessity of obeying the “Thus saith the Lord” in Exodus 31:12-16. “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations.” Verse 13.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

MR No. 938—Ellen White’s Missionary Visits

12MR 77.1

Sabbath day, what a burden was upon my soul for the A family! We had services. I spoke most earnestly from Isaiah 58, bringing out the Sabbath question, dwelling upon verses 12-14 and on Exodus 31:12, 17. I presented the foundation of the Sunday—its being converted by the Roman power into a sacred day, and how nearly all Christendom had turned from the holy commandment, the fourth precept of the Decalogue—the day upon which the Lord rested, the day He sanctified as the day of His rest. He instituted the seventh day as the Sabbath, the memorial of Creation, that the Lord God should ever be reverenced and worshiped on the seventh day and no servile work should be done therein.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 59, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 59, 1893, par. 20

Sabbath day what a burden was upon my soul for the [Brown] family! We had services. I spoke most earnestly from (Isaiah 58), bringing out the Sabbath question, dwelling upon (verses 12-14) and on Exodus 31:12, 17. I presented the foundation of the Sunday—its being converted by the Roman power into a sacred day, and how nearly all Christendom had turned from the holy commandment, the fourth precept of the Decalogue—the day upon which the Lord rested, the day He sanctified as the day of His rest. He instituted the seventh day as the Sabbath, the memorial of creation, that the Lord God should ever be reverenced and worshiped on the seventh day and no servile work should be done therein.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 77, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 77, 1900, 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.” “It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever.” [Exodus 31:12, 13, 17.]

15LtMs, Ms 77, 1900, par. 8

The word came to them, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep.” [Exodus 31:13.] Though the work on the tabernacle must be carried forward with expedition, the Sabbath must not be employed as a working day. Even the work on the Lord’s house must give way to the sacred observance of the Lord’s rest day. Thus jealous is God for the honor of His memorial of creation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 151, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 151, 1903, par. 3

“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. ... 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 31:12, 13, 17.]

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

MR No. 1010—Counsel to those in Authority

13MR 68.3

The banner of the third angel has inscribed upon it, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” Our institutions have taken a name which sets forth the character of our faith, and of this name we are never to be ashamed. I have been shown that this name means much, and in adopting it we have followed the light given us from heaven. Let us hear what the Lord saith, [Exodus 31:12-13, 17, quoted].

Selected Messages Book 3

Chapter 29—The Sabbath: Guiding Principles in Sabbath Observance

3SM 256.1

The Sabbath a Sign to the World of Loyalty—From the pillar of cloud Jesus “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). The Sabbath is a pledge given by God to man—a sign of the relation existing between the Creator and His created beings. By observing the memorial of the creation of the world in six days and the rest of the Creator on the seventh day, by keeping the Sabbath holy, according to His directions, the Israelites were to declare to the world their loyalty to the only true and living God, the Sovereign of the universe.

3SM 256.3

“Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.... 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 14-17).—Manuscript 122, 1901.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 104, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 104, 1893, par. 13

“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. ... 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.” And now the reason is given. “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 31:12-13, 15-17.] The Sabbath is then a sign between God and his children, and is to be a perpetual memorial of his creative power in making the world, in creating man in six days. “For in six days the Lord made the heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:11.]

8LtMs, Ms 104, 1893, par. 14

Who spoke these words to Moses? No less personage than the Son of God. Did the son of God under the gospel dispensation give a lower standard than he gave to Adam in Eden?—No. What reason could he give to annul the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and change it to the first day of the week, when the seventh day was to be the memorial of his creative power in creating the heavens and the earth, in making man who was to inhabit the earth he had made? He says, “It is a sign between me and you throughout your generations.” [Exodus 31:13.] Are we not the Israel of God through the process of being grafted into the olive tree? Then is not the very day God sanctified and blessed to be observed throughout your generations forever as a memorial of God’s creative works during six days and his rest upon the seventh?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 15, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 26

The banner of the third angel has inscribed upon it, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] Our institutions have taken a name which sets forth the character of our faith, and of this name we are never to be ashamed. I have been shown that this name means much, and in adopting it we have followed the light given us from heaven. Let us hear what the Lord saith, “And 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 doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death: wherefore whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. ... 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 31:12-14, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 31, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 31, 1898, par. 22

The sign of obedience is the observance of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. If men keep the fourth commandment, they will keep all the rest. It was no human voice that spoke to Moses, giving him the Sabbath as a sign. “The Lord spake to 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.” [Exodus 31:12-14.]

13LtMs, Lt 31, 1898, par. 23

The Lord does not leave so important a precept as this without definite specification. “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 15, 16.]

13LtMs, Lt 31, 1898, par. 24

Human philosophy declares that an indefinite period of time was taken in the creation of the world. Does God state the matter thus? No; He says, “It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days (not six indefinite periods of time, for then there would be no possible way for man to observe the day specified in the fourth commandment) the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested and was refreshed.” [Verse 17.] Please read carefully the fifth chapter of Deuteronomy. God says again, “Remember (do not forget) the Sabbath day, to keep it holy ... For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and sanctified it.” [Exodus 20:8, 11.]

13LtMs, Lt 31, 1898, par. 28

There is nothing in the Sabbath that restricts it to any particular class of people. It was given for all mankind. It is to be employed, not in indolence, but in the contemplation of the works of God. This men are to do that they may know “that I am the Lord that do sanctify them.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]

MR No. 1142—Physicians Are Reformers and Are to Follow Christ’s Example; The Sabbath a Sign; The Importance Of Attention to Little Things

15MR 32.1

God has declared that it means much to discard the word of the living God, and accept the assertions of those who seek to change times and laws. [Exodus 31:12-17, quoted.]

15MR 38.4

This physician could not have loved God supremely and his neighbor as himself. He buried principle, and in its place revealed selfishness and an avaricious spirit. The Lord cannot be pleased or His name exalted by any such practice. Every physician who has the sign of God is represented in Exodus 31:13, 17. These are a distinct and holy people unto the Lord.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 6, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 6, 1889, par. 24

We have all the way along known that this battle must come. The two great powers, the prince of darkness and the Prince of Light, will be in close battle, and not one of God’s people who understand the truth, if in the light where God would have them to stand, will teach by precept or example any soul to shirk now. Give them strengthening Bible diet and Bible duty to strengthen and brace the soul for the coming conflict. But there will be need, at this time of men, who have been leaders in this work, keeping step where Jesus leads the way. If they do not walk in the light as Christ leads the way and advance with the increasing light of the third angel’s message, they will surely become blind leaders of the blind. Exodus 31:12-17.

6LtMs, Ms 6, 1889, par. 37

We have all kinds of material to deal with. There are those who will, through hasty, unadvised moves, betray the cause of God into the enemy’s power. There will be men who will seek to be revenged, who will become apostates and betray Christ in the person of His saints. All need to learn discretion; then there is danger on the other hand of being conservative, of giving away to the enemy in concession. Our brethren should be very cautious in this matter for the honor of God. They should make God their fear and their dread. Should this conference make resolutions, and pass them, that it would be right and proper for Seventh-day Adventists to rest on the first day of the week, in order to avoid arrests and what might probably arise if they did not obey the laws, would this be showing that we stand in right relation to God’s holy law? Exodus 31:12-17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 88, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 88, 1897, par. 14

It is for the interest of all to understand what the mark of the beast is, and how they may escape the dread threatenings of God. Why are men not interested to know what constitutes the mark of the beast and his image? It is in direct contrast with the mark of God. “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak ye 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 am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. ... Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy unto 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 31:12-17.]

12LtMs, Ms 88, 1897, par. 22

“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.” [Exodus 31:16, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 21, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 9

“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death; for whosoever doeth any work in therein, that soul shall be cut off from among the people. Six days shall work be done; but the seventh is a Sabbath of rest; holy unto 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 generation for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 76, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 76, 1897, par. 18

“The Lord spoke 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: everyone that defileth 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 78, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 78, 1897, par. 68

The Lord has given directions regarding His Sabbath: “The Lord speak unto Moses saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is 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: everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whoso 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 for ever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 76, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 10

If there were a sudden change in God’s dealings, and disrespect and disobedience of God, the abuse of His mercies, selfishness, robbery toward God, of talents, of means, of the time which He has sanctified and blessed (Exodus 31:12-17), if all transgression of God’s holy law should be immediately followed by death, marked offenses would be shunned with greatest carefulness, and it would seem to human minds perfectly reasonable, when appeals, exhortations, warnings, [and] threatenings, could not deter Satan from working to counterwork a “Thus saith the Lord.” But the Lord draws the children of men by the cords of His love. He wants no unwilling service in His ranks.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 63, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 10

“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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 12

There are great lessons to be learned by all who minister for Christ. The Sabbath mark must be placed upon God’s commandment-keeping people. The Sabbath, if kept in the spirit of true obedience, will show that all God’s commandments are to be practiced, “that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.]

14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 29

In this country the greatest fraud is practiced by the physician. He receives a call to go twenty-five miles. He steps into the cars, and in one or two hours is at his post of duty. He comes in, looks at the patient, tells him to go to the hospital, or perhaps gives him a little liquid in a bottle, and for this charges the patient from five to ten pounds. This is extortion and robbery of the afflicted and is directly opposed to the precepts of the law of God. This physician could not have loved God supremely and his neighbor as himself. He buried principle, and in its place revealed selfishness and an avaricious spirit. The Lord cannot be pleased or His name exalted by any such practice. Every physician who has the sign of God is represented in Exodus 31:13, 17. These are a distinct and holy people unto the Lord.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 255, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 255, 1899, par. 5

“Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, May 23. At home again. Our meetings at Hamilton were excellent. Sabbath Brother Haskell spoke in the morning meeting. I, according to appointment, spoke in the afternoon at three o’clock. There was a good representation of those who have recently come to a knowledge of the truth. After Brother Haskell prayed, my heart was drawn out in earnest supplication for the presence of Jesus in our midst to bless God’s commandment-keeping people, pleading the promise made in Exodus 31:12-17. The Lord has twice said the Sabbath “is a sign between me and you throughout your generations” for a perpetual covenant “that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.] We must have the sanctification of the Spirit.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1389—As It Was in the Days of Noah

19MR 182.3

It is for the interest of all to understand what the mark of the beast is, and how they may escape the dread threatenings of God. Why are men not interested to know what constitutes the mark of the beast and his image? It is in direct contrast with the mark of God. [Exodus 31:12-17, quoted.]

19MR 183.3

He who made the world in six days, rested on the seventh, sanctifying and blessing that day. The Sabbath command designates God as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. [Exodus 20:8-11; 31:16, 17, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 77, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 77, 1899, par. 7

“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; everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among the 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 198, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 34

“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: everyone 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 27, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 27, 1900, par. 33

“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak ye 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. Everyone 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 he rested and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 66, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 66, 1900, par. 7

“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 he rested and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

15LtMs, Lt 66, 1900, par. 8

True sanctification comes through willing obedience. We are distinctly and decidedly taught that the proper observance of the Sabbath brings a knowledge of what constitutes true sanctification. Reputation and even life itself might better be sacrificed than the truth of the Word of God. God declares that when His Sabbath is honored as sacred and holy, it is to His people a sign between Him and them, whereby they may know that He is the Lord that doth sanctify them. “Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.” [Verse 14.] God has set it apart to be devoted to holy service. It is His memorial of creation. By His creative power God is distinguished from all other gods that are worshipped. The Sabbath is a public token by which the world may recognize the true and living God. If they obey Him and reverence His holy day, the Sabbath is a continual sign between Him and them, a pledge that He will recognize and fulfil His covenant.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 29, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 29, 1901, par. 8

God has given a test to all the world. “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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 193, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 193, 1901, par. 20

“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 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 31:12-17.] What language could be plainer or more weighty than this? This is the truth we are to proclaim, trusting in Christ to impress hearts. He is all-powerful, and He has promised to be with His servants unto the end of the world. He will guide and strengthen all who put their trust in Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 128, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 128, 1902, par. 20

Do not the following words point out a denominational people: “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 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Medical Ministry

Essential Qualifications for Management

MM 164.4

Those who act as managers and overseers in our sanitariums are not to make the world’s policy their criterion; for the sign of God, as defined in Exodus 31:12-17, is to be revealed in all its comprehensive meaning. The proper observance of the Sabbath day by all connected with our sanitariums will exert an untold influence for good. Every medical institution established by Seventh-day Adventists is to bear God’s sign before the world prominently, without disguising the facts in any way. We are to voice the message of the third angel flying in the midst of heaven with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to the world. We are to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed, “The Commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [See Sabbath Observance, Section 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 56, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 26

“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 through 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 139, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 16

Now, in these last days of this earth’s history, the commandment-keeping people of God by keeping His law are to make earnest efforts to exalt the Lord God of heaven. The Word of God is specific, marking to a certainty the opposing influences against the seventh-day Sabbath which is the sign of God, and by which the loyalty of His people is tested. “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: 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 19

By observing the Sabbath day wherein God rested, the knowledge of God would be preserved. It is a “sign between Me and you ... that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verse 13.] Those who keep the Sabbath holy as the Lord has specified reveal that they are His peculiar people, and that He who made the heavens and the earth is their God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 132, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 132, 1903, par. 14

“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 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

18LtMs, Ms 132, 1903, par. 15

Do not these words point us out as God’s denominated people? and do they not declare to us that so long as time shall last, we are to cherish the sacred, denominational distinction placed on us? The children of Israel were to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations “for a perpetual covenant.” [Verse 16.] The Sabbath has lost none of its meaning. It is still the sign between God and His people, and it will be so forever.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 81, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 81, 1903, 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

18LtMs, Ms 81, 1903, par. 16

Do not these words point us out as God’s denominated people, and do they not declare to us that so long as time shall last, we are to cherish the sacred, denominational distinction placed on us? The children of Israel were to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations “for a perpetual covenant.” [Verse 16.] The Sabbath has lost none of its meaning. It is still the sign between God and His people and will be so forever.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 2, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 2, 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. 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 162, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 162, 1905, 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; everyone 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 103, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 103, 1908, par. 29

“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 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 He rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 143, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 143, 1909, par. 10

“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 31:12-17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 12a, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, par. 5

“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 Me; 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. 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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 18, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, par. 8

Solemn is the message we have to proclaim. As a people, we should guard against anything that would hinder the progress of this message. With courage and unfailing perseverance, we are to bear the responsibility that has been placed upon us. Faithfully we are to warn the world and exalt the Sabbath of Jehovah—that Sabbath which was instituted in Eden, observed by patriarchs, proclaimed from Sinai’s height, and emphasized at the time of the giving of the two tables of stone to Moses, when “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.” [Exodus 31:12-17.]

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 54—Issues at the Gen. Conf. of 1889

1888 478.1

We have all the way along known that this battle must come and the two great powers, the Prince of Darkness and the Prince of Light, will be in close battle, and not one of God’s people who understand the truth, if in the light where God would have them to stand, will teach by precept or example any soul to shirk now. Give them strengthening Bible diet and Bible duty to strengthen and brace the soul for the coming conflict. But there will be need at this time of men who have been leaders in this work of keeping step where Jesus leads the way. If they do not walk in the light as Christ leads the way and advance with the increasing light of the third angel’s message, they will surely become blind leaders of the blind. (Exodus 31:12-17).

1888 483.1

We have all kinds of material to deal with. There are those who will, through hasty, unadvised moves, betray the cause of God into the enemy’s power. There will be men who will seek to be revenged who will become apostates and betray Christ in the person of His saints. All need to learn discretion; then there is danger on the other hand of being conservative, of giving away to the enemy in concession. Our brethren should be very cautious in this matter for the honor of God. They should make God their fear and their dread. Should this Conference make resolutions and pass them, that it would be right and proper for Seventh-day Adventists to rest on the first day of the week in order to avoid arrests and what might probably arise if they did not obey the laws, would this be showing that we stand in right relation to God’s holy law? Exodus 31:12-17.

The Review and Herald

April 27, 1911

RH April 27, 1911, par. 3

“It is for the interest of all to understand what the mark of the beast is, and how they may escape the dread threatenings of God. Why are men not interested to know what constitutes the mark of the beast? Exodus 31:12-17. The Sabbath question will be the issue in the great conflict in which all the world will act a part. Revelation 13:4-17.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 558—The Law

8MR 99.3

From the pillar of cloud Jesus “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.) The Sabbath is a pledge given by God to man,—a sign of the relation existing between the Creator and His created beings. By observing the memorial of the creation of the world in six days and the rest of the Creator on the seventh day, by keeping the Sabbath holy, according to His directions, the Israelites were to declare to the world their loyalty to the only true and living God, the Sovereign of the universe.

8MR 100.2

“Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore: for it is holy unto you.... 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 31:14-17.)

8MR 100.3

By these words Christ has placed this matter beyond all the sophistry of human conjecture. “And He [Christ] 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 31:18.) Nothing written on those tables could be blotted out. The precious record of the law was placed in the ark of the testament and is still there, safely hidden from the human family. But in God’s appointed time He will bring forth these tables of stone to be a testimony to all the world against the disregard of His commandments and against the idolatrous worship of a counterfeit Sabbath.—Manuscript 122, 1901, 1-4. (“The Law,” November 23, 1901.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 122, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, par. 7

From the pillar of cloud Jesus “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.] The Sabbath is a pledge given by God to man—a sign of the relation existing between the Creator and His created beings. By observing the memorial of the creation of the world in six days, and the rest of the Creator on the seventh day, by keeping the Sabbath holy according to His directions, the Israelites were to declare to the world their loyalty to the only true and living God, the Sovereign of the universe.

16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, par. 9

“Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you. ... 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 14-17.]

16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, par. 10

By these words Christ has placed this matter beyond all the sophistry of human conjecture. “And he (Christ) 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.” [Verse 18.] Nothing written on those tables could be blotted out. The precious record of the law was placed in the ark of the testament and is still there, safely hidden from the human family. But in God’s appointed time He will bring forth these tables of stone to be a testimony to all the world against the disregard of His commandments and against the idolatrous worship of a counterfeit Sabbath.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 117, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, par. 7

We read in Exodus 31:12, 13. We want the truth on every point, because it is not safe for us to accept errors and expect that we are going to have the blessings that will be given to all who obey the truth, when we do not obey it. We want to obey the truth just as it stands.

24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, par. 8

Verse 14. He has given them special directions that they might make no mistake.

24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, par. 9

Verse 15. Because they would be doing that work right in the face, before the Lord, of His specification of what day they were to observe.

24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, par. 10

Verse 16. (For how long?) throughout their generations, etc. verses 17, 18. Now how is that? Why, that they might make no mistake, He has these tables of stone written with the finger of God. And there He has them preserved, that they might ever bear in mind the claims that God has upon them. Well, that is what we want to do.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 125, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, par. 38

Exodus 31:12-15. Whosoever doeth any work on the Sabbath day, where they do it in the face of all the light.

24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, par. 39

Verses 16-18. Now we have the history of Israel. You just read it out of the Book.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 163, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 17

“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: everyone 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 it is 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 31:12-17.]

12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 25

God proclaimed the Sabbath made in Eden as the Sabbath that was to endure forever. Exodus 31:12-18. “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. The Lord did not set his love upon you nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people. But because the Lord love you, and because he would keep the oath which he swore unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations.” [Deuteronomy 7:6-9.]

12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 26

The Sabbath is to be a sign between God and His people. “Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it as a sign between me and you throughout your generations: that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.] This is Bible sanctification.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 51, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 51, 1901, par. 7

“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 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 31:12-17.]

16LtMs, Lt 51, 1901, par. 8

“And he gave to Moses when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai two tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verse 18.] Never could this be blotted out; for it was written, engraved in stone, with the finger of God. It was never against us, because God declared that we were to obey His commandments as a perpetual covenant. At His death Christ blotted out the handwriting that was against us, “and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.” [Colossians 2:14.] In every ceremony, in every sacrifice, His death had been prefigured. He was the foundation of the sacrificial system, which was to last till in His death type should meet antitype. He “abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” [Ephesians 2:15-20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 65, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 31

We are to make plain through our interpreter the solemnity of the binding claims of the seventh-day Sabbath, appointed of God to be observed. Whether our congregation be in number large or small, the light must be given. Through our interpreter—wherever we go we must through our interpreter give the important matter of Bible-testing truth in the third angel’s message, for this is our sign of distinction from the world and our relationship to God. Thus saith the Lord, “Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations. ... 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.” “Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.” Exodus 31:12-17.

4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 48

(Exodus 31:12-18) specifies the definite day God has specified should be kept. I warned them not to venture to trifle with sacred and eternal interests, that they would surely find that they could not trample upon the law of God with impunity, and that God’s holy law was the only unerring standard to judge every soul, to decide the fitness of every character for heaven.

Counsels for the Church

Chapter 2—The Time of The End

CCh 39.5

Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.

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

MR No. 773—Warning Regarding Future Troubles

10MR 4.1

The Sabbath is the sign between God and His people. Please read the last seven verses of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus (verses 12-18). What could be more definite, more decided than this? As a people we are to keep ourselves separate from the world. We are to enter into no confederacy with those upon whom for years the light of truth has been shining, but who have not walked in the light. We are conscientiously to honor God, diligently using every means of keeping in covenant relation with Him, that we may receive His blessings—the blessings so essential for the people who are to be so severely tried.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]

MR No. 192—Ellen G. White Statements Bearing on the Question of the Day Line; Additional Misc. Materials

3MR 254.1

We have the positive word of God in regard to the Sabbath. “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 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 31:12-18.

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

MR No. 1558—Dietary Advice to a Sanitarium Physician; Let the Adventist Light Shine

21MR 288.3

Please read Exodus 31:12-18. Could anything be more positive than this? The Sabbath of the fourth commandment is not to be hidden under a bushel. In all our sanitariums the light on this question is to shine forth. By our methods of work we are to exalt God’s memorial and refrain from lessening the sacred, exalted character of the law of God. We are ever to acknowledge the binding claims of the Sabbath command before all believers and unbelievers. This, God declares, is a sign between Him and us throughout our generations forever.

Maranatha

Satan Personates Christ—1, July 16

Mar 205.5

It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely.53Testimonies for the Church 9:16.

Medical Ministry

Counterfeit Miracles

MM 110.2

God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word, “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.—Testimonies for the Church 9:16.

Our Father Cares

The Only Security, September 5

OFC 260.1

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. Exodus 31:13.

OFC 260.3

It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living Word—“It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world.

Selected Messages Book 2

Miracles in the Closing Conflict

2SM 54.5

It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living Word—“It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 17—Unity and Devotion

2SM 158.1

The Lord has appointed His work to go forward in missionary lines in such a way as to extend the knowledge of the truth for these last days. A deception has certainly been on those who ought to have been wide awake to see the great, grand work to be done by the people who bear God’s sign as represented in Exodus 31:12-18.

Selected Messages Book 3

The Date Line Problem

3SM 318.1

Seventh-day Sabbath Left in No Uncertainty—We have the positive word of God in regard to the Sabbath [Exodus 31:12-18 quoted].

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Chapter 15—The Educational Journal

CW 116.2

Misleading Guideposts—The Lord has called out a people from among men, and has given them great light and knowledge in regard to His word. In Exodus 31:12-18 He declares the relation which they are to sustain to Him. God has not authorized us to exalt men, and keep the minds of students directed toward those who evidently do not bear the signature which He has placed upon His chosen people. “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.” Those who refuse to stand as God’s chosen people, sanctified and made holy through doing His word, are as guideposts pointing in the wrong direction. So also are they who would encourage the youth to study as a pattern the so-called wise men, who have not been wise enough to know God and do His commandments.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Chapter 1—The Last Crisis

9T 16.1

Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.

9T 17.3

“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: everyone 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.” Exodus 31:12-17.

Testimonies to Southern Africa

Miracles in the Closing Conflict

TSA 61.1

It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word,—“It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world.

This Day With God

The Only Security, March 1

TDG 69.1

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. Exodus 31:13.

TDG 69.3

It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living Word—“It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world.

This Day With God

Every Member a Missionary, June 19

TDG 179.4

All the warnings must be given. The truth, Bible truth, is to be proclaimed in our large camp meetings, and the churches can hear the truth. They have the opportunity. All may not desire to hear. Many oppose everything that calls for self-denial. They are not willing to accept the Sabbath. In Exodus 31:12-18 it is clearly marked out in definite lines what God expects from His people, and the decided consequence of rejecting [it] is death. Notwithstanding this, many will refuse obedience because the truth involves self-denial and self-sacrifice.

An Appeal for Missions

The Workers Needed

PH004 16.2

God’s people have a mighty work before them, and it must continually rise to greater preeminence. This work was small at the outset. Only a few were called upon the stage of action to begin the work. But gradually the work has advanced; God has brought it from a small beginning into great importance. His truth was to be defended; for men were placing contempt upon the Sabbath of creation, which God declares to be a sign to distinguish between his people and the unbeliever. (Exodus 31:12-18.) And as often as opposers labored to destroy the work, they were defeated. Truth has gradually asserted itself. Providence and grace have done a wonderful work, and its progress in the future is to be greater than in the past.

The Kress Collection

The Regions Beyond

KC 123.4

All the warnings must be given. The truth, Bible truth, is to be proclaimed in our large camp-meetings, and the churches can hear the truth. They have the opportunity. All may not desire to hear. Many oppose anything that calls for self-denial. They are not willing to accept the Sabbath. In Exodus 31:12-18, is clearly marked out in definite lines what God expects from his people, and the decided consequence of rejecting is death. Notwithstanding this many will refuse obedience because the truth involves self-denial and self-sacrifice.

KC 124.5

For the glory of his own name God will continue to bear with the perversity of men that they may repent, lest his and their enemies shall triumph in their positive destruction. He bears long with their waywardness and folly. He disciplines them, that they should seek him, and if they will humble their hearts before him, he will not bring them to shame, but through their suffering and their turning unto the Lord, he will make them the eternal monuments of his mercy. His almighty power alone can avail in behalf of any human agency through his abiding grace. Wholehearted obedience God requires of his people as their only means of happiness and prosperity. Only through humbling themselves and exalting God by their devotion to him can they find true prosperity. Yet this is the most difficult lesson for them to learn. Christ and his body, the church, are to become one as is represented in John 1:17—Christ and his people united to God the great Head. The ministry, which has been belittled, will be the power and energy of Christ in word and doctrine. These are they whom man despiseth, whom the nation abhorreth, because they bear the sign of the original Sabbath. Exodus 31:12-18. God’s commandment keeping people are made to be a servant to rulers, they are required by man-made laws to disregard the law of God.

Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1

Chapter 7—Unity and Devotion

1NL 21.1

The Lord has appointed His work to go forward in missionary lines in such a way as to extend the knowledge of the truth for these last days. A deception has certainly been on those who ought to have been wide awake to see the great, grand work to be done by the people who bear God’s sign as represented in Exodus 31:12-18.

Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1

Miracles Not the Sign

1NL 50.5

God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word, “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.—Testimonies for the Church 9:16.

The Review and Herald

January 28, 1909

RH January 28, 1909, par. 17

We need to understand clearly the divine requirements that God makes of his people. The law, which is the transcript of his character, no one need fail to understand. The words written by the finger of God on tables of stone so perfectly reveal his will concerning his people that none need make any mistake. The laws of his kingdom were definitely made known, to be afterward revealed to the people of all nations and tongues as the principles of his government. We would do well to study those laws recorded in Exodus 20 and in the thirty-first chapter, verses 12-18.

Manuscript Release No 1033

16. Takoma Park, Maryland, Sabbath, May 20, 1905

MR1033 68.4

One of authority came forward and said solemnly, “Bind up the testimony and seal the law among my disciples.” Then came the reproof, decided, firm, and cutting; “The Sabbath truth is to be proclaimed. It is the truth for these last days.” The words found in Exodus 31:12-18 were repeated with great solemnity.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

A Faithful Few

3TT 284.4

Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: “It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.

3TT 286.4

“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: everyone 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.” Exodus 31:12-17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 92, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 92, 1891, par. 10

This was the very day that the Lord had sanctified and set apart and given to the world as His memorial. This creation Sabbath, given to Moses in Exodus 31:12-18, has shown its importance, which was to keep God, the Creator of the world, ever in the minds of His people. Who was the Speaker? It was Jesus Christ enshrouded in the pillowy cloud. “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou to 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.” “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 16, 17.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 87, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 87, 1893, par. 32

The Lord made the heavens and the earth and rested on the Sabbath, and sanctified the day of His rest—which was the seventh day, not the first. Exodus 20:8-11; 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 110, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 110, 1893, par. 1

The words of God are valid. Exodus 20:8-11: “Remember the sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God,” etc. Verse 11: “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.” [See also] Exodus 20; 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 22, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 22, 1897, par. 12

“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.]

12LtMs, Lt 22, 1897, par. 13

Read these verses, and understand them in a different way than you have heretofore done. Far more sacredness is attached to the Sabbath than we give it, and our neglect in this is the reason why we do not realize its sanctifying power upon our own hearts, or obtain that peace and rest that we should have. We do not realize that it is a day wherein the Lord delights to reveal Himself to His people in a marked manner. Every moment of the Sabbath is consecrated, holy time. On that day all secular, irreligious papers should be put out of sight, that the eyes may not be diverted, that the ears may not hear harsh, discordant words. The Lord would have every one respect the Sabbath. “Ye shall keep the Sabbath,” He says; “for it is holy unto you.” “Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generation, that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verses 14, 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 124, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 124, 1898, par. 2

God brought this work from a small beginning into great importance. His truth was to be defended, for men were placing contempt upon the Sabbath of creation, which God declares to be a sign between His people and the unbeliever. Exodus 31:12-18. And as often as opposers labored to destroy the work, they were defeated. Truth has gradually asserted itself. Providence and grace have done a wonderful work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 139, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 47

God’s people have a mighty work before them, and it must continually rise to greater pre-eminence. This work was small at the outset. Only a few were called upon the [scene] of action to begin the work. But gradually the work has advanced; God has brought it from a small beginning into great importance. His truth was to be defended, for men were placing contempt upon the Sabbath of creation, which God declares to be a sign to distinguish between His people and the unbeliever. Exodus 31:12-18. And as often as opposers labored to destroy the work, they were defeated. Truth has gradually asserted itself. Providence and grace have done a wonderful work, and its progress in the future is to be greater than in the past.

Manuscript Release No. 760

Introductory Note :

MR760 2.4

One of authority came forward and said solemnly, “Bind up the testimony and seal the law among my disciples.” Then came the reproof, decided, firm, and cutting: “The Sabbath truth is to be proclaimed. It is the truth for these last days.” The words found in Exodus 31:12-18 were repeated with great solemnity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 170, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 170, 1899, par. 13

The money of Philip and his mother and Brother and Sister Lindsay was being bound up in worldly schemes. Philip was dishonoring the Sabbath, God’s great memorial of creation. If Brother Philip had taken heed to the works of the Lord in (Exodus 31:12-18), a different state of things would now exist. God has positively declared what He will do in giving large success and blessings to the obedient, those who keep His commandments, and He has plainly specified what He will do to the transgressors of His law, those who cast their influence on the side of the enemies of God. Every jot and tittle of Philip’s influence could have been exercised to the very best account in behalf, not only of his mother’s family, but of relatives and friends, to bring many souls to the knowledge of the truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 89, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 89, 1899, par. 8

I call your attention to the sixth chapter of Isaiah. This chapter reveals much that is impressive. Chapter eight also contains lessons that are of value to every soul who is of understanding: “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” [Verse 16.] Read also Exodus 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 105, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 105, 1899, par. 26

“If thou turn away thy foot form the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, ... then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord, and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth.” [Verses 13, 14.] The work for this time is to make prominent the truths presented in Exodus 31:12-18. And medical missionary work is bound up solidly and inseparably with all God’s commandments, of which the Sabbath is mentioned especially, for it is the great memorial of God’s creation work. Its observance is bound up with the work of restoring the moral image of God in man. This is the ministry God’s people are to carry forward.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 192, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 192, 1899, par. 20

I spoke in the afternoon in regard to keeping the Sabbath. May the Lord bless the words spoken. I presented the subject from Exodus 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 159, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 159, 1899, par. 15

Again, let no man, because he is physician, feel at liberty to do those things which God has said he should not do. He should not travel on the Sabbath because he is a physician unless to relieve suffering humanity. He should plan his work so as to meet God’s requirements and obey the truth. God says, “Verily, my sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations.” [Exodus 31:13.] When there is real suffering to be alleviated, the Sabbath is not desecrated by physicians travelling upon it; but unimportant cases should be deferred till after the Sabbath. God sanctified and blessed the seventh day, and it is to be kept as His sacred memorial.

14LtMs, Ms 159, 1899, par. 16

God created the world in six days, and rested upon the seventh. “Wherefore,” He declared, “the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant.” [Verse 16.] We have established sanitariums because He would not be mingled with those who, though they have had the light, are not willing to come out from the world and let all know that they are Seventh-day Adventists. Those who keep God’s commandments may claim the promises contained in Exodus 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 88, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 88, 1899, par. 21

Are not professing Christians making void the law of God by setting aside the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and exalting in its place the first day of the week? The law of God requires nothing short of unquestioning obedience and spiritual perfection. The words found in (Exodus 31:12-18) make this matter perfectly plain. God there declares, “Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations.” [Verse 13.] Should not those now living in delusion arouse to the true state of things? The time is coming when disobedience will be called by its true name.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 85a, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 85a, 1899, par. 4

The Lord has called out a people from among men, and has given them great light and knowledge in regard to His Word; and in Exodus 31:12-18 He declares the relation they are to sustain to Him. God has not authorized us to exalt men and keep the minds of students directed toward those who do not bear the signature which He has placed upon His chosen people, “that they may know that I am the Lord which doth sanctify them.” [Verse 13.] Those who refuse to stand as God’s chosen people, sanctified and made holy, are as guide posts pointing in the wrong direction, educating the youth to study so-called wise men, who have not been wise to know God and do His commandments. The editors of The Instructor and The Christian Educator are diverting minds from God to man, and advising the study of books written by men who have been disloyal to the God of heaven. Is the Lord pleased by this turning aside of those whom He has made the repositories of sacred truth to inquire of the gods of Ekron? Is He honored, is His name glorified, by the selections which appear in these papers? These periodicals should be devoted to directing and educating those who are carrying the light to men, seeking to prepare a people for the second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven.

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

MR No. 870—Keeping the Sabbath in our Sanitariums

11MR 73.3

Please read Exodus 31:12-18. Could anything be more positive than this? The Sabbath of the fourth commandment is not to be hidden under a bushel. In all our sanitariums the light on this question is to shine forth. By our methods of work we are to exalt God’s memorial. We are ever to acknowledge the binding claims of the Sabbath command. This, God declares, is a sign between Him and us throughout our generations forever.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 85, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 85, 1899, par. 6

The Lord has called out a people from among men, and has given them great light and knowledge in regard to His Word. In Exodus 31:12-18 He declares the relation which they are to sustain to Him. God has not authorized us to exalt men and keep the minds of students directed toward those who evidently do not bear the signature which He has placed upon His chosen people. “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.] Those who refuse to stand as God’s chosen people, sanctified and made holy through doing His Word, are as guideposts pointing in the wrong direction. So also are they who would encourage the youth to study as a pattern the so-called wise men, who have not been wise enough to know God and do His commandments.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 86, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 86, 1900, par. 20

All the warnings must be given. The truth, Bible truth, is to be proclaimed in our large camp meetings, and the churches can hear the truth. They have the opportunity. All may not desire to hear. Many oppose everything that calls for self-denial. They are not willing to accept the Sabbath. In (Exodus 31:12-18) is clearly marked out in definite lines what God expects from His people, and the decided consequence of rejecting [it] is death. Notwithstanding this, many will refuse obedience because the truth involves self-denial and self-sacrifice.

15LtMs, Lt 86, 1900, par. 27

Wholehearted obedience God requires of His people as their only means of happiness and prosperity. Only through humbling themselves and exalting God by their devotion to Him can they find true prosperity. Yet this is the most difficult lesson for them to learn. Christ and His body, the church, are to become one as is represented in (John 17)—Christ in His people united to God the great Head. The ministry, which has been belittled, will be the power and energy of Christ in Word and doctrine. These are they whom man despiseth, whom the nation abhorreth, because they bear the sign of the original Sabbath. Exodus 31:12-18. God’s commandment-keeping people are made to be a servant to rulers, they are required by man-made laws to disregard the law of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 28, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 28, 1900, par. 13

There are only two parties upon the earth—those who stand under the bloodstained banner of Jesus Christ and those who stand under the black banner of rebellion. Those who stand under Christ’s banner bear the sign of obedience spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. Please read this Scripture carefully. In the twelfth chapter of Revelation is represented the last great conflict between the obedient and the disobedient.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 83, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 83, 1900, par. 8

In (Exodus 31:12-18) the Lord declares the observance of the Sabbath to be a sign between Him and His people throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant. The Sabbath is a memorial of creation. As each week we rest upon the Lord’s rest day, we acknowledge before the churches and the world that God is the Creator, that He created the world in six days and rested upon the seventh, blessing and sanctifying this day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 52, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 52, 1900, par. 30

God sends His messengers to enlighten the world that they are not keeping the Ten Commandments given in Eden, and again given to the people whom the Lord delivered from bondage in Egypt. The Lord God stood upon Mount Sinai and in awful grandeur proclaimed His ten holy precepts, that men might understand and obey the commandments of God. In (Exodus 31:12-18) the special requirement of God is presented. The ministers see the force of the truth, but because obedience involves a cross, they will not open their eyes to behold wondrous things out of God’s law.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 48, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 48, 1900, par. 1

“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge?” Isaiah 58:1-3. In this connection, read Exodus 31:12-18. Isaiah 56:1-18 [1-8?], Isaiah 55.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 70, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 70, 1900, par. 12

“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 31:12-18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 95, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 95, 1900, par. 6

I have reason to praise God. I enjoyed sleep of eight hours last night. I feel much invigorated and refreshed. At eleven o’clock our chapel was well-filled. There was a large congregation present and the Lord gave me freedom in speaking to the people. I was glad that the Lord strengthened me to speak and to present the necessity of more careful attention to the observance of the Sabbath. I read Exodus 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 118, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 118, 1900, par. 3

“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.]

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

MR No. 279—The Sabbath

5MR 88.3

Here is the life-insurance policy for every soul that shall strive in the right way and upon the right principles. They shall never fall, but shall have their eternal life insurance papers in the sign given in Exodus 31:12-18, in the observance of the Lord’s Sabbath. This means obedience to all His commandments, for the keeping of the Sabbath which God has sanctified and blessed at Creation, “is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations” “for ever,” “that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” (Verses 13, 17.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 45, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 45, 1900, par. 19

All who love God supremely and keep His commandments will bear the sign of God as brought to view in Exodus 31:12-18. Here is the knowledge of what constitutes true sanctification. “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.]

15LtMs, Ms 45, 1900, par. 24

[Here] is the life insurance policy for every soul that shall strive in the right way and upon the right principles. They shall never fall, but shall have their eternal life insurance papers in the sign given in (Exodus 31:12-18), in the observance of the Lord’s Sabbath. This means obedience to all His commandments, for the keeping of the Sabbath which God has sanctified and blessed at creation, “is a sign between me and you throughout your generations” “forever,” “that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Verses 13, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 29, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 29, 1900, par. 25

The Lord is soon coming, and the great conflict that Satan created in the heavenly courts will be forever decided. Blood-bought souls are ever dear to the Saviour. What these souls want is a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” What is truth? It is revealed in Exodus 31:12-18. “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: everyone 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.

15LtMs, Ms 29, 1900, par. 26

“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 15-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 30, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 30, 1900, par. 4

Here the two parties are plainly brought to view, those who love and fear God, and those who fear Him not. You have been given an exhibition of the two parties. One party is obedient to the holy commandments given by God at the creation of the world and recapitulated from Mount Sinai; the other is disobedient and unholy. God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it as a day of rest, for the performance of spiritual duties. He set it apart from all other days, establishing it as a memorial of the work of creation. It was to be devoted to Him in spiritual service. This day is a day of God’s special appointment. (Exodus 31:12-18) gives the charge concerning this day more definitely, and specifies the Sabbath as a sign between God and His people, that they may know by their obedience to the commandments that He is the Lord who sanctifies them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 14, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, par. 1

The Lord has appointed His work to go forward in missionary lines in such a way as to extend the knowledge of the truth for these last days. A deception has certainly been on those who ought to have been wide awake to see the great, grand work to be done by the people who bear God’s sign as represented in Exodus 31:12-18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 14, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 14, 1901, par. 23

Please read Exodus 31:12-18. Could anything be more positive than this? The Sabbath of the fourth commandment is not to be hidden under a bushel. In all our sanitariums the light on this question is to shine forth. By our methods of work we are to exalt God’s memorial. We are ever to acknowledge the binding claims of the Sabbath command. This, God declares, is a sign between Him and us throughout our generations forever.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 154, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 154, 1902, par. 17

Those who act as managers and overseers in our sanitariums are not to make the world’s policy their criterion; for the sign of God, as defined in (Exodus 31:12-18), is to be revealed in all its comprehensive meaning. The proper observance of the Sabbath day by all connected with our sanitariums will exert an untold influence for good. Every medical institution established by Seventh-day Adventists is to bear God’s sign before the world prominently, without disguising the facts in any way. We are to voice the message of the third angel flying in the midst of heaven with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to the world. We are to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 259, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 259, 1902, par. 4

Supposing that the commandments of God should be illustrated and placed upon the first page of Review and Herald where they can speak to the people, such would be an appropriate illustration. Let such words as are of highest importance come first to the eye and teach the requirements of heaven. (Exodus 31:12-18) should appear in every paper published. (Deuteronomy 6:3-9, 20-25; 7:5-11, 24-26), should also appear.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1104—True Medical Missionary Work, Not Work For Outcasts, to be Emphasized; Value of Camp Meetings

14MR 161.3

There are only two parties upon the earth—those who stand under the blood-stained banner of Jesus Christ and those who stand under the black banner of rebellion. Those who stand under Christ’s banner bear the sign of obedience spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. Please read this Scripture carefully. In the twelfth chapter of Revelation is represented the last great conflict between the obedient and the disobedient. [Revelation 12:17; 13:11-17, quoted].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 169, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 169, 1902, par. 5

Possibly I could not fully describe the impression that was made upon my mind by the statement that our medical institutions are undenominational. As I was considering this matter in the night season, it seemed as if One stood up in the midst of us and pointed us back to the Israelites as an illustration of a distinct people denominated of God. That which made them denominational was the observance of God’s commandments. In the twelfth to the eighteenth verses of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus their distinguishing sign is mentioned. “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep,” the Lord declared: “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. ... It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever.” [Verses 13, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 110, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 110, 1902, par. 21

The Sabbath is the sign between God and His people. Please read the last seven verses of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus. What could be more definite, more decided, than this? As a people we are to keep ourselves separate from the world. We are to enter into no confederacy with those upon whom for years the light of truth has been shining, but who have not walked in the light. We are conscientiously to honor God, diligently using every means of keeping in covenant relation with Him, that we may receive His blessings—the blessings so essential for the people who are to be so severely tried.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 235, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 235, 1902, par. 15

Religion in the home is not a sentiment but a reality—a whole family wearing God’s sign as represented in Exodus 31:12-18. There is a plenty of pretense but we want practical godliness. The Lord presides in the home where religion is lived.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 83, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 83, 1903, par. 19

“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.” [Exodus 31:12-18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 308, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 308, 1903, par. 6

In having these books come to the people, [and their] reading them, a far greater work would be done for the one reading by the angel who had given me the light and bid me write them out quickly; for the enemy was having an influence upon minds that had not investigated the Bible to see what positive [instruction] the great I AM had given to His people in the Word. Exodus, chapter 20. The Lord Himself came upon Sinai’s mount and spoke in awful grandeur His law; again He gave directions that Moses should give to the people. Exodus, chapter 31, verses 12-18. And what could be more positive? Well, these two books were in vindication and magnifying of the law of God. The attention of the people would be called to this subject, and angels of God would impress the minds just as minds have been impressed with the book, Christ’s Object Lessons.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 110, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 59

Apostate Protestantism has accepted the false sabbath instituted by the Roman Catholic Church. They have cradled this child of the papacy. Very soon all who refuse to worship this idol will be forbidden to buy or sell. The advisability of enacting such a law is now being discussed. But the people of God will enter into no controversy with the world over this matter. They will simply take God’s Word for their guide and maintain their allegiance to Him whose commandments they keep. They will obey the words of Jehovah recorded in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, verses twelve to eighteen:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 59, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 59, 1905, par. 4

One of authority came forward and said solemnly, “Bind up the testimony and seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] Then came the reproof, decided, firm, and cutting: “The Sabbath truth is to be proclaimed. It is the truth for these last days.” The words found in (Exodus 31:12-18) were repeated with great solemnity.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1401—Sacredness of the Law and the Sabbath; The Need for Obedience and Reformation

19MR 263.1

Here the two parties are plainly brought to view—those who love and fear God, and those who fear Him not. You have been given an exhibition of the two parties. One party is obedient to the holy commandments given by God at the creation of the world and recapitulated from Mount Sinai; the other is disobedient and unholy. God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it as a day of rest for the performance of spiritual duties. He set it apart from all other days, establishing it as a memorial of the work of creation. It was to be devoted to Him in spiritual service. This day is a day of God’s special appointment. Exodus 31:12-18 gives the charge concerning this day more definitely, and specifies the Sabbath as a sign between God and His people, that they may know by their obedience to the commandments that He is the Lord who sanctifies them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 408, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, par. 5

“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 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 communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Exodus 31:12-18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 161, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, par. 3

The heaviest evidences are to be brought in now on the verity and confirmation of the great test question—Exodus 20 and 31:12-18. Here is the important testing question, and the enemy is trying his best to get minds diverted to make a world of an atom. These words were spoken and are placed in print in Testimonies, Vol. 6, No. 34. In our large meetings—camp-meetings and tent efforts—in or near the large cities, there should be abundance of ministerial help so that one or two ministers will not become overwearied and give the trumpet an uncertain sound. It is high time that the clean, pure, testing truths, that mean life to the receiver, shall be brought to the front in Washington.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 164, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, par. 7

Now this is the highest education that can be given to man. “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 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 31:12-18. Can there be education coming from a higher source than the voice of God, as given in these verses? Read Revelation chapters 3 and 5.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 7 [Nos. 419-525]

MR No. 458—Counsels on Sanitarium Work

7MR 212.3

Those who act as managers and overseers in our sanitariums are not to make the world’s policy their criterion; for the sign of God, as defined in Exodus 31:12-18, is to be revealed in all its comprehensive meaning. The proper observance of the Sabbath day by all connected with our sanitariums will exert an untold influence for good. Every medical institution established by Seventh-day Adventists is to bear God’s sign before the world prominently, without disguising the facts in any way. We are to voice the message of the third angel flying in the midst of heaven with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to the world. We are to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.—Manuscript 154, 1902, 5-7. (“Instruction to Men in Positions of Responsibility,” typed October 24, 1902.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

Importance of Walking in the Path of Obedience

14MR 153.3

On the Sabbath no servile work is to be done. God has given man six days on which to work. He claims the seventh day as His own. On this day men are to worship Him. They are to contemplate the wonderful works of the Creator, praising Him for His goodness and love. By giving them the Sabbath, it was God’s design to preserve among men a clear, definite knowledge of Himself as their Creator. He declares, “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 31:13].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]

MR No. 207—Manuscript Materials Requested for Use in Books and Articles

3MR 424.4

All who keep the Sabbath in truth bear the mark of loyalty to God. They are representatives of His kingdom. Their light is to shine forth to others in good works. We are not merely to observe the Sabbath as a legal matter, we are to be intelligent in regard to its spiritual bearing upon all the transactions of life. God says, “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 31:13. This is sanctification through the truth.

Selected Messages Book 3

Pay Fine if It Will Deliver From the Oppressor

3SM 400.2

Men are inspired by Satan to execute his purposes against God. The Lord has said, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations” (Exodus 31:13). None should disobey this command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another” (Matthew 10:23). If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of Antichrist. If the payment of a fine will deliver our brethren from the hands of these oppressors, let it be paid, rather than to be pressed and made to work on the Sabbath. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty....

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Chapter 27—A Time of Trial Before Us

9T 230.1

The Lord has said: “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.” Exodus 31:13. None should disobey His command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

Counsels for the Church

“O Come Let Us Worship the Lord”

CCh 265.4

The little companies assembled to worship God on His holy day have a right to claim the rich blessing of Jehovah. They should believe that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. Every true worshiper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise: “That ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13.477Testimonies for the Church 6:360, 361

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Sabbath Meetings

6T 360.3

The little companies assembled to worship God on His holy day have a right to claim the rich blessing of Jehovah. They should believe that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. Every true worshiper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise: “That ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13.

The Upward Look

Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves, January 26

UL 40.2

Men are inspired by Satan to execute his purposes against God. The Lord has said, “Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations” (Exodus 31:13). None should disobey this command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another” (Matthew 10:23). If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. If the payment of a fine will deliver our brethren from the hands of these oppressors, let it be paid.... Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

The Upward Look

God Calls for Workers, March 3

UL 76.1

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. Exodus 31:13.

To Be Like Jesus

The Spurious Sabbath a False Signpost, May 11

BLJ 142.1

Speak also to the children of Israel, saying: “Surely My Sabbaths you shall keep, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am the Lord who sanctifies you.” Exodus 31:13, NKJV.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Letter 94a, 1909

2SAT 311.2

A mighty work is to be done by the people who observe the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. The Sabbath truth is to be presented in clear lines. Our platform is to be the law of God. We are to call attention to the Sabbath as the holy of the Lord, honorable. The Sabbath day is set apart by Jehovah as a sign between the Lord and His people. “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep,” He says, “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 31:13).

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Sabbath Meetings

3TT 27.2

The little companies assembled to worship God on His holy day have a right to claim the rich blessing of Jehovah. They should believe that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. Every true worshiper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise: “That ye may know that I am the Lord God that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

The Sabbath Issue

3TT 393.2

The Lord has said: “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.” Exodus 31:13. None should disobey His command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

Homeward Bound

A Perpetual Covenant, June 24

HB 197.4

From the pillar of cloud Christ declared concerning the Sabbath: “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 31:13.) The Sabbath given to the world as the sign of God as the Creator is also the sign of Him as the Sanctifier. The power that created all things is the power that re-creates the soul in His own likeness. To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character. It is received through obedience to those principles that are the transcript of His character. And the Sabbath is the sign of obedience. Those who from the heart obey the fourth commandment will obey the whole law. They are sanctified through obedience.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 26, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 26, 1886, par. 17

The Sabbath of the fourth commandment has not been exalted and honored by some of the members of this church as it should have been. God blessed and sanctified the seventh day and said that during its hours no secular work should be done. He declared that His Sabbath was to be a sign between Him and His people forever, throughout their generations. [Exodus 31:13.] Of the week, God has given us six days on which to labor, but the seventh He has reserved for Himself. And to spend the hours of this day in doing our own work is to rob Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 24, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 24, 1891, par. 64

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock.” [Matthew 7:24.] The character of the Christian will be positive and stable; it will be monumental, commemorating the great truths of the Bible, that others may be benefited by the sign of obedience he carries. “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” [John 14:15.] The Sabbath of the fourth commandment “is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 67, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 67, 1893, par. 10

This day was to be ever observed in commemoration of creation, testifying through eternal ages that God was the only living, true God who created the heavens and the earth and rested on the seventh day. It was to be observed and to be “a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13. The statement is made, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign.” Let us remember this is spoken by God to all created intelligences. Therefore we are Seventh-day Adventists.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 11b, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 11b, 1894, par. 27

“Why do you always talk about the Sabbath?” so many ask. “Why do you talk about Christ?” Suppose a fence enclosing a valuable field of yours should be broken down in one part. Which part of that fence would receive the most of your attention? Would it be the part that was secure? No; the breach would be that which would occupy your time and thought until the enclosure was secure again. It is so with the law of God. The Sabbath of the law of God is the breach in the wall. It has been broken down. “The foundation of many generations” is the seventh day Sabbath. [Isaiah 58:12, 13.] “This is the sign,” God says, “between me and thee throughout your generations.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 20, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 41

Are you on the side of Christ or the side of Satan? Are you disdaining the Word of God or are you building up the foundations of many generations that you may be called in the heavenly courts, “the repairer of the breach, the restorer of paths to dwell in”—the repairer of the breach that the man of sin has made in the law. [Isaiah 58:12.] God says, “The Sabbath shall be a sign between me and thee throughout thy generations.” [Exodus 31:13.] We want you to think of these things. We want you to have an eye single to the glory of God. God has given you reasoning powers and if they are corrupted by beer or wine or anything else you cannot help to restore the image of God in the human agent.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 34, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 34, 1897, par. 18

But the Sabbath has been treated with great disrespect. It has been used in a way to detract from its dignity, and to remove the hallowed sanctity that God has placed upon it. God would have His Sabbath stand before the people in its moral power, answering the design of Jehovah in keeping in remembrance the living God, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. “It is a sign between me and thee,” said God. [Exodus 31:13.]

Education

Chapter 29—The Sabbath

Ed 250.1

The value of the Sabbath as a means of education is beyond estimate. Whatever of ours God claims from us, He returns again, enriched, transfigured, with His own glory. The tithe that He claimed from Israel was devoted to preserving among men, in its glorious beauty, the pattern of His temple in the heavens, the token of His presence on the earth. So the portion of our time which He claims is given again to us, bearing His name and seal. “It is a sign,” He says, “between Me and you; ... that ye may know that I am the Lord;” because “in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” Exodus 31:13; 20:11. The Sabbath is a sign of creative and redeeming power; it points to God as the source of life and knowledge; it recalls man’s primeval glory, and thus witnesses to God’s purpose to re-create us in His own image.

Last Day Events

Chapter 9—Sunday Laws

LDE 124.2

“Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep,” the Lord says, “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 31:13). Some will seek to place obstacles in the way of Sabbath observance, saying, “You do not know what day is the Sabbath,” but they seem to understand when Sunday comes, and have manifested great zeal in making laws compelling its observance.—The Kress Collection, 148 (1900).

Lift Him Up

The Sabbath Points to the Creator, February 8

LHU 53.1

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. Exodus 31:13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 18, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 18, 1900, par. 13

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 12:17.] Here is presented the effort made by the fallen powers against those who keep holy God’s memorial, the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, the sign between God and His people, “that ye may know,” He says, “that I am the Lord which doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 80, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 80, 1900, par. 22

God will more than fulfill the highest expectations of those who put their trust in Him. He desires us to remember that when we are humble and contrite, we stand where He can and will manifest Himself to us. He is well-pleased when we urge past mercies and blessings as a reason why He should bestow on us higher and great blessings. He is honored when we love Him, and bear testimony to the genuineness of our love by keeping His commandments. He is honored when we set apart the seventh day as sacred and holy. To those who do this the Sabbath is a sign, “that they may know,” God declares, “that I am the Lord that doth sanctify them.” [Exodus 31:13.] Sanctification means habitual communion with God. There is nothing so great and so powerful as God’s love for those who are His children by adoption.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 98, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 98, 1900, par. 16

“Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep,” the Lord says, “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 31:13.] Some will seek to place obstacles in the way of Sabbath observance, saying, You do not know what day is the Sabbath. But they seem to understand when Sunday comes, and have manifested great zeal in making laws for <compelling> its observance, as though they could control the consciences of men.