EGW WritingsIsaiah 8
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Isaiah 8 in the BibleIsaiah 8:9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 11, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 11, 1889, par. 8
Men in positions of responsibility have concealed facts and made misstatements in their dealings with authors. Fraud is practiced. Advantage is taken of those who do not understand the secret plottings. Every such transaction is recorded in the books of heaven. Every dollar thus gained means a financial loss five times greater; for God accepts nothing gained in this way. Men have been selfish and dishonest. Certain ones have confederated together, while refusing to unite with other brethren in the most holy faith. The Lord declares, “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all those to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself, and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:9.]Isaiah 8:9-10
Manuscript Release No 1033
Brooklyn, New York, Tuesday, November 25, 1890
MR1033 32.1
Where the truth is rejected, it opens up a way where false waymarks will be set up, and perils will rise on all sides. Through neglect of seeking the earnest counsel of God men will be connected with the office who will form themselves into a ring, to echo the sentiments of him whom they consider most influential, and who pleases their human ideas. My guide spoke slowly and solemnly, “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.” [See Isaiah 8:9, 10.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
The Dangers and Results of Following Worldly Policies
19MR 260.2
My Instructor slowly and solemnly spoke the following words: “Form a confederacy; to whom they shall say, ‘Form a confederacy’; and they shall be broken in pieces.” Three times were these words spoken. “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us” [Isaiah 8:9, 10].Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1596—American Sentinel Not to Change Its Policies; Circulation of The Great Controversy and Daniel and Revelation Urged; Publishing House Leaders Need to Be Converted
21MR 453.2
God’s messengers speak words that are truth, but men do not want to accept them. False waymarks will be made. Signboards pointing in the wrong direction will be set up. Men connected with the publishing house will form a ring, the members of which will voice the works spoken by one another. Slowly and solemnly my guide said. “‘Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: Gird yourselves and ye shall be broken in pieces; ... Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall stand: for God is with us’” [Isaiah 8:9, 10].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 62, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 62, 1890, par. 24
Through neglecting to seek counsel of God, men connected with our institutions will form themselves into a ring to echo the sentiments of him whom they consider most influential. <Thus they strengthen one another in rejecting the message God sends by His servants, if these messages do not, in all respects, meet the ideas of some leading men.> But the purpose of God is not to be turned aside according to their ideas. My guide spoke slowly and solemnly: “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear all ye far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand: For God is with us.” [Isaiah 8:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 6, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 6, 1890, par. 6
Where the truth is rejected, it opens up a way where false waymarks will be set up, and perils will rise on all sides. Through neglect of seeking the earnest counsel of God, men will be connected with the office who will form themselves into a ring, to echo the sentiments of him whom they consider most influential and who pleases their human ideas. My guide spoke slowly and solemnly, “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear all ye far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.” [Isaiah 8:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 29a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 29a, 1890, par. 34
God’s messengers speak words that are truth, but men do not want to accept them. False waymarks will be made. Signboards pointing in the wrong direction will be set up. Men connected with the publishing house will form a ring, the members of which will voice the words spoken by one another. Slowly and solemnly my Guide said, “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: Gird yourselves,”—meaning binding up in companies, “and ye shall be broken in pieces; ... Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.” Isaiah 8:9, 10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 29, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 29, 1890, par. 34
God’s messengers speak words that are truth, but men do not want to accept them. False waymarks will be made. Signboards pointing in the wrong direction will be set up. Men connected with the publishing house will form a ring, the members of which will voice the words spoken by one another. Slowly and solemnly my Guide said, “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries. Gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.” [Isaiah 8:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1891, par. 91
My Instructor slowly and solemnly spoke the following words: “Form a confederacy; to whom they shall say, ‘Form a confederacy;’ and they shall be broken in pieces.” Three times were these words spoken. “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for God is with us.” [Isaiah 8:9, 10.]Isaiah 8:9-13
Evangelism
Secret Societies
Ev 617.5
The Lord declares through the prophet Isaiah: “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” Isaiah 8:9-13.Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 13—Should Christians Be Members of Secret Societies?
2SM 122.3
“Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread” (Isaiah 8:9-13).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 56, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 56, 1893, par. 4
“Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” Isaiah 8:9-13.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 53, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 4
Again the Lord declares through the prophet Isaiah: “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of his people, saying, Say ye not, a confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of Hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:9-13.]Isaiah 8:9-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 201, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 201, 1903, par. 3
He looked upon the many that [He] longed to save and with pitiful tenderness He said, “And ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life. I receive not honor from men, but I know you that ye have not the love of God in you” (John 5:40-42). [See also] Isaiah 62:10-12; 8:9-18.Isaiah 8:9-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 12, 1893
Napier, New Zealand
March 28, 1893
Portions of this manuscript are published in CC 120; 9MR 3-6; MRmnt 13. +NoteOne or more typed copies of this document contain additional Ellen White handwritten interlineations which may be viewed at the main office of the Ellen G. White Estate.
8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 1
My mind has been much exercised of late, and I want that every one should stand in his lot and place.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 2
“Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us.” Isaiah 8:9, 10; and also read verses 11-20. I have had a considerable burden since coming to this country. When our people wanted me, and asked me to come to this country, I considered it too much of an undertaking to travel so far in my feebleness. To comfort me they said, “Sister White, you will have no such burdens to bear as you have here, for every one will believe your testimony. You will have nothing to meet as here.” I have met a firmness and determination not surpassed in any other country. I am here, and the burden rolled upon me. I see I must talk with men. The leaders stood in the way of the work. Matters were laid open very clearly to my mind. When I had to tell individuals that “you did this thing,” and without one single human intimation that such was so, you may be assured that I had to set my face as steel before them. I felt so distressed at [the] track laid open. There was not harmony among the workers. There were things contrary to the Spirit of God.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 3
Some were working on lines that had no connection with the ministry of Jesus Christ. The work of the shepherd is to work for the sheep, but instead the sheep were looking for the shepherd. Some of the ministers were studying on other lines, and phrenology was one of them. Then some would take up the subject of the organism of man, and the organism of woman. When these things were presented to me as God regarded them, how terrible they were neglecting the sheep.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 4
How deeply I felt for New Zealand. There are souls hungering and thirsting for the Word of life. Canvassers need to be instructed in every line. Such a laxness, and looseness, and how things are going on. The great ease, the fraud, and the McCalpin case. Brother Hare, I ask you, Who covered up the course of his action? That is one thing that accounts for the empty seats we met in Auckland. God is in earnest with us, and I have felt terrible over these matters. We must work in God’s lines, and unless we learn them the delusions of the last day will come upon the people.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 5
Read what is recorded in Joshua when Achan had stolen the Babylonish garment and wedge of gold. Achan takes the property appointed to destruction, and hides it. Israel knew nothing about it. The sin of one man caused Israel to be beaten before the enemy. Something more than prayer was required. They were to get up and cleanse the camp of Israel. Please read Joshua 7:14-20. Achan had taken what was appointed to destruction, and God’s Spirit searched him out. I want to tell you, brethren and sisters, we [had] better examine our own cases before we shall undertake to examine anybody else. Anything like fraud as of that man must be cleared away. God knew about the Babylonish garment. The searching Spirit of God searches out the hidden things. God gives His people sufficient to heed in warnings and admonitions, and sometimes to bring them to their senses, He sends affliction and suffering. It becomes us to act upon every ray of light given.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 6
How I labored for the Australian Conference a year ago; how I longed to see the Spirit of God move them. There were dishonest practices to be put away. After hard labor there, I would reel on my way home. But I was obliged to flee to save my life. And for eleven months I suffered from a severe attack of fever and rheumatism. But God revealed Himself to me because I was in the line of my duty. We afterwards went to Adelaide, and I have been able to bear my testimony ever since. It was as plain to me as the handwriting on the wall at Belshazzar’s feast. There were witnesses to the transactions that took place. I could see them as plain as a picture presented before me. I knew it required more personal effort.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 7
When Nathan presented the terrible sin to David, David saw how terrible it was, and said that thus and so should be done. Then Nathan said, “Thou art the man.” [2 Samuel 12:7.] If David had been living close to God he would have seen the application. We want to ask ourselves, What is my position spiritually? Have I been working in God’s lines? Have I been moving in such a manner represented as a laborer together with God? We should be rooted and grounded in the truth.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 8
A certain minister in California was tampering with phrenology, while carrying on the ministry, as a means of making money. He falsified in many respects, and discouraged souls by his course. He even said to some married couples that they were unfitted for each other. God never gave him such a commission.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 9
What I want to know is what kind of a heart have you? The devil had a splendid head, but he had an envious heart. There is no excuse for the rebellious heart that came in Satan, and that iniquity is unexplainable.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 10
This minister said, I shall have to use phrenology in order to get out of debt, and he was receiving from $15 to $18 per week. I said to him, “I rebuke your spirit in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” He thought he could [do] such wonderful things, and he made a young man think the same, and he went home and lived upon the earnings of his poor mother, and has never done that wonderful thing yet. He was going to tell them of themselves. Those who practice this work do a hundred times more harm than good.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 11
Ministers are granted credentials that they may instruct people in the word of God. And they can overcome their hereditary and cultivated tendencies. The phrenologist would tell them about marriages, etc., and confessions were made by women such as they would confess to a Catholic priest.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 12
These things have been opened before my mind, and I can assure you that I have not one particle of faith in phrenology <as it is not handled. It has become a fraud.> We have a higher work than this. It certainly cannot be said of those who practiced these things, “And thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.” [Isaiah 58:8.] They do not know what the glory of the Lord is. There is a power from beneath acting upon the minds of many. And there is going to be such a state of criticizing. Even the Bible is not taken as a standard. They would dare to tamper with the Law of God, and change the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and have adopted Sunday, instead of the Sabbath of the Lord which is to endure as long as the heavens above and the earth beneath. Matthew 5:17. The Pharisees had the Sabbath of the Lord loaded with human exactions. And the words of Christ cut through the slime and rubbish of human inventions.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 13
Christ Himself came to explain the law, and He presents the Sabbath on its original basis. He said, “I am the Lord of the Sabbath.” [See Matthew 12:8.] The Bible truth is not hid from anyone, unless it is hid to them that are lost, because they will not take the plain statement of the Word of God. Antichrists appear. Satan and evil angels counsel to do away with God’s sign. They said, “We will take Sunday, and make the world believe it is the Sabbath of [the] fourth commandment.” When they will compel all <to keep it,> that is the mark of the beast and his image. All the lying signs and wonders, and mass of corruptions and slime, are the imprint of the satanic. They show blindness that is inconceivable.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 14
God has said, “Thou shalt keep the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.” [See Deuteronomy 5:12, 14.] Yet some say it makes no difference <what day we keep.> We want to show that it does make a decided difference. The Word of God is made of no account by such.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 15
Christ is seen to come. We must preach the third angel’s message. Use the Bible, which will transform character.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 16
The wife of the minister who used phrenology as a means to bring in more money, said, “My husband is capable of standing in the highest positions.” It was astonishing the influence that he had over human minds. But he did not walk in the light as God would have him, and today he is selling brushes as a means of making a living.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 17
I said to a Brother Butler, “God desires that you should preach his truth.” But said he, “Look at my head, I have no power of faith, and I <can> never go <and preach,> and I am just as full of infidelity as I can be.” But I told him that God had shown me that he should go and proclaim the message. He did go, and after he had labored some time, he said, “Sister White, the hollow in my head is all filled up.” It was because he had been cultivating faith and working in God’s lines.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 18
You may say it was due to phrenology, but it was due to the transforming <grace and> power of God. Those who engage in this <work of reading character by the head practice all kinds of deception under [the] profession of knowledge.> [They] may try to reform character, but they never do it. Preach Christ, and present the Pattern, and work in His lines, and then you ... [incomplete sentence.]8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 19
In the early days the first angel’s message, one poor <man> that was foolish was impressed with the truth, and he went to a learned Elder and repeated the following words, “Elder G., Behold, the bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him.” <[Elder G. said,] “Give us your reasons, Brother,” but he presented no reasons> and kept on repeating these words instead of trying to give proof for the soon coming of the Lord, for he of himself was unable to give any reason. But he repeated the words, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.” [Matthew 25:6.] And the Spirit of God rested upon them, and Elder G. fell on his knees and confessed his pomp and pride before the Lord.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 20
God sent this poor man and brought the learned man to his knees and his position before God. (1 Corinthians 1:20): “Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?” See also verses 21-25; also verses 26-31 [and] 1 Corinthians 2:1. The apostle Paul could meet oratory with oratory, philosophy with philosophy. He could meet people on their own ground. Now he says, “For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2. [See] also verses 3-10.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 21
God alone can transform character. Jesus Christ came into our world to bring back through the mighty power of the cross of Calvary that which was lost. Verses 7, 8; verse 12. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” 1 Corinthians 2:12, 13. See also verses 14-16.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 22
We want you to sense these things. We want you to understand the working of the Spirit of God. Ephesians 1:17-23. Let us put our mental powers to the strain. Christ came to this world to establish Himself as the Center. Luke 11:31. We can say as Christ said to Nicodemus, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:3.] We want you to see what Christ is and what God is. We believe [we] have the most wonderful truths that men ever knew, and yet many allow a dish of fables to be the man of their counsel.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 23
Many of the canvassers have not known the spirit of conversion, there has been a letting down to a low level. We are presenting the cup full of the preciousness of God. Not the wine of Babylon—doctrines of error dealt to the kings of the earth. But the Holy Spirit of God. Will you drink it? Your souls are worth saving. 2 Timothy 2:10-19, 22-26. Our minds can be in captivity to the will of Christ, and He can put His own superscription upon us. Now let us bring our thoughts into captivity to the will of heaven. By beholding we become changed from glory to glory, from character to character. We want to show that we place an estimate upon humanity, humanity that is under the controlling power of the influence of God. And we want you to stand to the front. We intend to speak the words God has given us, and that is what you need. You have never fallen upon the Rock and been broken, and this is why you have not felt the power of Christ.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 24
Let everyone see that you are weighted with the power of the truth. Things have not been managed properly. The truth has been hid by man’s inventions. We want to know what you are going to do about this matter. We want God to walk through our camp. There should be the shout of the King in the camp. We should not lay hold of these things with the tip ends of our fingers; but be rooted and grounded in the truth. Seek the Lord, and search the Scriptures as you never have before. Do not drop one discouraging word. Look to One that can save you to the uttermost, that you might have the glory of the Father that loves you as He loves His Son. Could you not put away iniquity and sin as you look at these words? You bear the credentials of his course of actions. We ask you to wash in the fountain open for Judah. Humble yourselves, put away levity. You want to bring the solid timbers into your character. (The) searching Spirit of God will go through the congregation and cut away the fleshly tables of the heart. Christ writes His Spirit on our hearts. He will walk through our midst. Limit not the Holy One of Israel.8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 25
And behold them changed by phrenology—NO! And behold them changed from character to character, from glory to glory, to make them children of obedience.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 149, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 5
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.” [Isaiah 8:9-12.]22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 7
“The Lord spake thus unto me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” [Verses 11-16.]22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 9
Every professed believer in Christ will be tempted by Satan. “And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared (mark that word), and be taken.” [Verse 15.] Notwithstanding all their knowledge of the Word of God, all their light, and their position as expositors of Bible truth, many shall “stumble and fall, and be broken and be snared, and be taken.” The ruin of this class is certain. Then the charge is given, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” [Verse 16.]22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 11
“And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards, that peep and that mutter: shall not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Verses 17-20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 92, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 92, 1894, par. 6
The Scriptures positively forbid intercourse with evil angels on the supposition of communion with the dead. Through this deception Satan can educate souls in his school of falsehood, and make of none effect the lessons that Christ could teach which, if practiced, would result in the eternal life of those who obey. Satan is seeking to form a great confederacy of evil by uniting fallen men and fallen angels. But the Lord says, “when they shall say unto you, seek unto them that have familiar spirits and unto wizards, and that matter: should not a people seek unto their God? For the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to his word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:19, 20.] “And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a-whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among the people.” “Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them; I am the Lord your God.” [Leviticus 20:6; 19:31.]9LtMs, Ms 92, 1894, par. 14
The confederacy of evil will not stand. The Lord says, “Associate yourselves, Oh ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear all ye of far countries, gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself, and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread: and he shall be for a sanctuary.” [Isaiah 8:9-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 75, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 17
Will you turn from your Leader to enter the ranks of those who have no connection with God? Will you receive their counsel against your own brethren? This is the fruit borne on an evil tree. When you receive counsel that is not of God, you bring in advice that you do not need and will never need. “To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 18
“Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God is with us. For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom these people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of Hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” [Verses 9-16.]13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 19
Thus the Lord will deal with all wrong practices, which you may deem to be right, but which are a deception and a snare. “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God, for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Verses 19, 20.]Isaiah 8:9-22
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 270, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 270, 1902, par. 2
Your brethren have no more confidence in you than you have in them and this will be brought around. For years you have been presented to me as oft under temptations and you have swerved away from truth in order to do works that will exalt J. H. Kellogg. Your works will become more and more objectionable to God until He will say, “He is joined to his idols, let him alone.” [See Hosea 4:17.] You can choose if you will to be wholly the Lord’s. The words were spoken: Isaiah 8:9-22.Isaiah 8:10-14
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 27—Ahaz
PK 330.3
But in Judah there dwelt some who maintained their allegiance to Jehovah, steadfastly refusing to be led into idolatry. It was to these that Isaiah and Micah and their associates looked in hope as they surveyed the ruin wrought during the last years of Ahaz. Their sanctuary was closed, but the faithful ones were assured: “God is with us.” “Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary.” Isaiah 8:10, 13, 14.From Splendor to Shadow
Great Peril for the Chosen Nation
SS 174.3
But in Judah there dwelt some who maintained their allegiance to Jehovah. To these Isaiah and Micah looked in hope as they surveyed the ruin wrought during the last years of Ahaz. Their sanctuary was closed, but the faithful ones were assured: “God is with us.” “Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear ... . And He shall be for a sanctuary.” Isaiah 8:10, 13, 14.Isaiah 8:10-22
The Review and Herald
April 8, 1915
RH April 8, 1915, par. 10
But in Judah there dwelt some who, amid the prevailing apostasy, maintained their allegiance to Jehovah, steadfastly refusing to be led into idolatry. It was to these that Isaiah and Micah and their associates looked in hope as they surveyed the ruin wrought during the last years of Ahaz. Their sanctuary was closed, but the faithful ones were assured: “God is with us.... Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary.” Isaiah 8:10, 13, 14.RH April 8, 1915, par. 11
In this time of “trouble and darkness” and “dimness of anguish” (verse 22), the future was made bright by means of many precious communications to the church of God concerning her future triumph. Judah was to suffer much from Assyrian oppression, and from the scourgings of other nations, and was finally to be carried away captive; yet this sore chastisement, grievous though it might seem at the time, would be used by a merciful Providence as a means of salvation. “By this,” Isaiah declared, “shall the iniquity of Jacob be purged; and this is all the fruit to take away his sin.” Isaiah 27:9. At the close of the period of captivity, those who had remained faithful, together with those who might choose henceforth to serve the living God, were to be permitted to return to the land of their fathers.Isaiah 8:11-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 23, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 23, 1897, par. 17
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” [Isaiah 8:11-14.]Isaiah 8:11-18
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 115—The Vision at Salamanca
1888 927.2
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion.” Isaiah 8:11-18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 36
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion.” Isaiah 8:11-18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 48, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 48, 1903, par. 6
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fears, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself, and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but He shall be for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel; for a gin and for a snare to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord that hideth His face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for Him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.” [Isaiah 8:11-18.]Isaiah 8:11-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 9, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 42
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.” [Isaiah 8:11, 12.] What is their fear? It is that, if they obey the commandments of God, they will be despised and ridiculed; if they come out from the world, they will be left to suffer want. Such a fear reveals a manifest unbelief in Him who provides all our blessings. He sends the showers upon our lands, He permits the sun to shine, that vegetation may flourish. One word from God could withdraw the rain and cut off our supplies of food. With locust and pestilence He could destroy our crops. He has borne long with the perversity of men, but He has their deeds written in the books of heaven, and He will repay.13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 43
Through His servant Isaiah God says, “Bind up the law, seal the testimony among my disciples.” “And I will wait upon the Lord that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion. ... To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Verses 16-18, 20.]Life Sketches of Ellen G. White
Chapter 48—Danger in Adopting Worldly Policy in the Work of God
LS 322.1
“‘For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.’ ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ Isaiah 8:11-13, 20. The world is not to be our criterion. Let the Lord work, let the Lord’s voice be heard.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 61, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 61, 1890, par. 11
“For the Lord spake thus unto me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of Hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. ... To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:11-13, 20.] The world is not to be our criterion. Let the Lord work, let the Lord’s voice be heard.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 164, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 164, 1901, par. 18
The same principle contained in Paul’s instruction is presented by Isaiah: “The Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. ... To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:11-17, 20.]Counsels to Writers and Editors
Chapter 12—Counsels to Editors
CW 90.2
“The Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.... Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.... To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:11-20.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Personal Experience Needed by Workers
7T 153.2
“The Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.... Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.... To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:11-20.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Personal Experience Needed By Workers
3TT 154.1
“The Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. ... Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples. ... To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:11-20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 41
“For the Lord spake thus unto me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, a confederacy to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy, neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion. And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:11-20.] The world is not to be our criterion. Let the Lord work; let the Lord’s voice be heard.Isaiah 8:12
Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 47—Preparing for the Final Crisis
2SM 371.1
There is to be no compromise with those who make void the law of God. It is not safe to rely upon them as counselors. Our testimony is not to be less decided now than formerly; our real position is not to be cloaked in order to please the world’s great men. They may desire us to unite with them and accept their plans, and may make propositions in regard to our course of action which may give the enemy an advantage over us. “Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy” (Isaiah 8:12). While we should not seek for controversy, and should not needlessly offend, we must present the truth clearly and decidedly, and stand firm to what God has taught us in His Word. You are not to look to the world in order to learn what you shall write and publish or what you shall speak. Let all your words and works testify, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables” (2 Peter 1:16). “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place” (2 Peter 1:19).This Day With God
Preach the Word, July 6
TDG 196.1
Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Isaiah 8:12.Isaiah 8:12-13
The Review and Herald
December 18, 1888
RH December 18, 1888, Art. A, par. 23
We read in Isaiah 8:12, 13: “Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” What is the burden of the work required of the people of God at this time? Is there nothing for you to do? Has the Master given your no part to act in his vineyard?—Yes, all have a work to do. “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” This is the work to be done by the people of God. “And I will wait upon the Lord that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me [converts to the truth] are for signs and for wonders in Israel, from the Lord of hosts which dwelleth in Mount Zion. And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter, should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isaiah 8:12-15
The Health Food Ministry
A Decided Warning
HFM 70.2
“Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of Hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” Isaiah 8:12-15.Isaiah 8:12-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 48, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 6
Those who connect with the men now in responsible positions in some of our institutions will either be educated or molded in a wrong direction or else they will be criticized and regarded with jealousy and will have a hard time. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, they have no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] Even the work of the Spirit of God upon the heart is to be tested by the Word of God. The Spirit which inspired the Scriptures always leads to the Scriptures.7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 27
There is to be no compromise with those who make void the law of God. It is not safe to rely upon them as counselors. Our testimony is not the less decided now than formerly; our real position is not to be cloaked in order to please the world’s great men. They may desire us to unite with them and accept their plans, and may make propositions in regard to our course of action which may give the enemy an advantage over us. “Say ye not, a confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, a confederacy.” [Isaiah 8:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 141, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 141, 1902, par. 12
The powers of Satan are mustering for battle. Stern conflicts are before us. Press together, my brethren and sisters, press together. Bind up with Christ. “Say ye not a confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary to his people; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a snare and for a gin to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble and fall, and be broken and snared, and taken.” [Isaiah 8:12-15.]17LtMs, Lt 141, 1902, par. 13
I am instructed to say to those who know the truth, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom thou hast given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion. And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Verses 16-20.]Isaiah 8:13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 1, 1874
2LtMs, Ms 1, 1874, par. 8
Clothe yourselves with the whole armor of God, move steadily forward, and be not greatly influenced by criticism, reproach, or censure. Bear in mind that the messengers whom God sends must go without the camp and bear reproach for Christ’s sake. Whatever may come to you, remember that Christ has borne all this and more for you. Whatever course of action you may pursue, there will be some one to criticize and censure you. Move forward in the fear and love of God, strengthening yourselves by faith, having courage in the Lord, and be always cheerful. The truth is solemn, elevating, and ennobling in its influence. The message of warning given to the world is to call attention from earthly things to matters of eternal interest. The truth will ever sanctify the receiver; those who preach the truth must be sanctified through it. But when they make special efforts to accommodate themselves to the peculiar ideas and feelings of their hearers, in order to avoid criticism, they will weaken their own testimony and fail of the object they wish to secure. They will do injustice to their mission, injustice to themselves, and also to those who criticize them. All who are working for the Master can and should improve in their methods of labor, but they can do this only as they shall study diligently the life of Christ and practice His virtues. Do not permit murmuring and faultfinding to weaken your hands and dim your hopes. “Sanctify the Lord of Hosts Himself, and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 9, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 28
The precious, saving truth has been buried under a mass of words. In every discourse let it stand out clear and prominent, that there may be no mistaking what saith the Lord. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.” [Verse 15.] “But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” [1 Thessalonians 2:4.] “Sanctify the Lord of Hosts Himself; let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.] See Colossians 1:25-29; Acts 20:19-21, 26, 27.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 53, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 53, 1893, par. 12
“Sanctify the Lord of Hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.] If you will now come to the Lord with contrition of soul, if you will really educate your heart to have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul, you will be resting in the love of Jesus. Faith, genuine faith, you are a stranger to. Faith is peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Study the plan of redemption. Your carnal, faithless position is robbing yourself every day and robbing God of heart service.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 18a, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 18a, 1906, par. 29
Shall we permit the satanic agencies to triumph completely? We stand guilty before God because of our neglect of His work. What are the servants of God doing? One who is mighty in council is taking measure of character. Where are the ministers of the gospel? In the ministry of God’s Word, the very best talent is needed. “Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.] Let us exalt the Lord as the one who has rightful dominion as the supreme Ruler in His church. Shall not those who are soundly converted lift up their voice in an earnest effort to stay the awful deeds that are bringing the judgments of God upon our nation and upon the world? We seem as men who know not what the living out of the law means. Let Christ be exalted in His mediatorial work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 118, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, par. 7
Our churches are certainly in need of instruction. “Sanctify the Lord God of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.]Isaiah 8:13-15
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 65—The Temple Cleansed Again
DA 598.1
“Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” Carried down in prophetic vision to the first advent, the prophet is shown that Christ is to bear trials and tests of which the treatment of the chief cornerstone in the temple of Solomon was symbolic. “Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isaiah 8:13-15; 28:16.Isaiah 8:13-20
The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters
February 6, 1894
PC 109.3
“Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” (Isaiah 8:13-16)PC 109.5
“I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth His face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for Him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me, are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mt. Zion. (Isaiah 8:17, 18)PC 109.6
“And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony : if they speak not to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isaiah 8:19, 20)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 277, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 277, 1905, par. 18
“Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” [Isaiah 8:13-16.]20LtMs, Lt 277, 1905, par. 21
“And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Verses 17-20.]Isaiah 8:14-15
From Heaven With Love
The Strange Stone That Prefigured Christ
HLv 399.3
“He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel... . And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” Christ was to bear trials and tests of which the chief cornerstone in the temple of Solomon was symbolic. “Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isaiah 8:14, 15; 28:16.Isaiah 8:15-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 119, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 119, 1886, par. 5
I spoke to the church in Tramelan three times. Sabbath our meeting was very interesting. I was led out by the Spirit of God. My mind was fruitful in the truth. My text was Isaiah 8:15-16, 20. I did not gain my strength, because I felt constantly the burden of the work—so much work to be done and so few to do it. Oh, that life and spirit and devotedness and zeal would come into the hearts of those who profess to believe and love the truth. We have the truth as a people, but we need the power and divine workings of God’s Spirit in our hearts. I fear greatly for a form of godliness without spirit and life. We need the deep inward working grace in the heart which will leave a softening, subduing influence upon the life and character. Tuesday we rode fifteen miles to Bienne and attended a missionary meeting with the church. There I spoke about one-half hour. Willie [White] and Albert [Vuilleumier] spoke to the people, telling them how to work the best they could. Wednesday we rode thirty miles to Chaux-de-Fonds. The scenery was very attractive. The fragrance of flowers and blossoms of fruit trees made it very grateful to the senses.Isaiah 8:16
Maranatha
The Seal of God and the Mark of the Beast, July 22
Mar 211.1
Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. Isaiah 8:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 41, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 17
There must be no divisions among you. In unity is strength. How greatly Christ is misrepresented, by those who claim to believe in Jesus, by their disregard for the words of Christ spoken to them just prior to His crucifixion, is an amazement to the heavenly angels who are commissioned to minister unto those who shall be heirs of salvation, to bind heart to heart by the golden chain which binds Christ to God. And all be bound up, brother with brother with Christ in God. “Bind up the testimony, and seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 136a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 136a, 1898, par. 39
There must be no more opposing work done among our people. We are to press together and “seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] How is this to be done? By closing up the divided ranks and standing a united company with our faces to the foe. The second and third chapters of Revelation present our position as it should be. It is now time that we worked intelligently as one mind and one heart and united meet the foe.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 41, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 41, 1902, par. 11
God’s Word is, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] His law and His testimony are His messengers to the world. They are hid from worldlings who have no appreciation of them and cannot understand their significance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 14, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 14, 1903, par. 45
Those who stand as teachers and leaders in our institutions are to be sound in the faith and in the principles of the third angel’s message. God wants His people to know that we have the message as He gave it to us in 1843 and 1844. We knew then what the message meant, and we call upon our people today to obey the Word, “Bind up the law among My disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] In this world there are but two classes—the obedient and the disobedient. To which class do we belong? God wants to make us a peculiar people, a holy nation. He has separated us from the world, and He calls upon us to stand on vantage ground, where He can bestow on us His Holy Spirit.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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 93, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 93, 1907, par. 48
You want to know where I stand on the testimonies. I have taken the position that Isaiah says, to “Bind up the testimony, seal them among My disciples.” [See Isaiah 8:16.] That our people have been doing. There are some things in them that I do not understand, that I cannot see. Most of them I can, but I leave the rest with the Lord. ...Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 50, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, par. 9
I am directed to write these Scriptures for the consideration of those who shall assemble for the purpose of blending together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] A special work now rests upon us of solemnly investigating these matters, and in the name of the Lord to unify.The Three Angels’ Messages
The certainty of the messages
3AM 33.3
Teachers and leaders are to communicate the surety of the message—Those who stand as teachers and leaders in our institutions are to be sound in the faith and in the principles of the third angel’s message. God wants His people to know that we have the message as He gave it to us in 1843 and 1844. We knew then what the message meant, and we call upon our people today to obey the Word, “Bind up the law among My disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.]—Manuscript 14, 1903 (March 30)The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
General Notes
GC88 691.3
The Sabbath is the sign of God; it is the seal of His law. Isaiah 8:16. It is the token of His authority and power. It is a sign whereby we may know that He is God, and therefore it is appropriately said to be placed in the forehead. The worshipers of the beast (Revelation 13) are said to receive his mark in their foreheads or in their hands. As the forehead represents the intellect, the hand represents power, as Psalm 89:48, “Shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave?” Compulsory worship is not acceptable to God; His servants are sealed only in their foreheads. But it is acceptable to wicked powers; it has always been craved by the Romish hierarchy. See chapter 25 for proof on the nature of this mark. The sign or seal of God is his Sabbath, and the seal or mark of the beast is in direct opposition to it; it is a counterfeit Sabbath on the “day of the sun.” According to Revelation 14:9-12, they who do not receive the mark of the beast keep the commandments of God; and the Sabbath is in the fourth precept; they keep the Sabbath of the Lord; they have his sign or seal. The importance of this sign is shown in this, that the fourth commandment is the only one in the law which distinguishes the Creator from false gods. Compare Jeremiah 10:10-12; Acts 17:23, 24; Revelation 14:6, 7, etc. and it is that part of his law for keeping which his people will suffer persecution. But when the wrath of God comes upon the persecutors who are found enforcing the sign or mark of the beast, then they will realize the importance of the Sabbath,—the seal of the living God. They who turn away from that which the Lord spoke when his voice shook the earth, will confess their fatal error when his voice shall shake the heavens and the earth. Hebrews 12:25, 26; Joel 3:9-16, and others. See also pages 639, 640 of this book.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Appendix
4SP 505.3
The Sabbath is the sign of God; it is the seal of his law. Isaiah 8:16. It is the token of his authority and power. It is a sign whereby we may know that he is God, and therefore it is appropriately said to be placed in the forehead. The worshipers of the beast (Revelation 13) are said to receive his mark in their foreheads or in their hands. As the forehead represents the intellect, the hand represents power, as Psalm 89:48, “Shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave?” Compulsory worship is not acceptable to God; his servants are sealed only in their foreheads. But it is acceptable to wicked powers; it has always been craved by the Romish hierarchy. See Note 8 for proof on the nature of this mark. The sign or seal of God is his Sabbath, and the seal or mark of the beast is in direct opposition to it; it is a counterfeit Sabbath on the “day of the sun.” In the message of the third angel (Revelation 14:9-12) they who do not receive the mark of the beast keep the commandments of God, and the Sabbath is in the fourth precept; they keep the Sabbath of the Lord; they have his sign or seal. The importance of this sign is shown in this, that the fourth commandment is the only one in the law which distinguishes the Creator from false gods. Compare Jeremiah 10:10-12; Acts 17:23, 24; Revelation 14:6, 7; etc. and it is that part of his law for keeping which his people will suffer persecution. But when the wrath of God comes upon the persecutors who arefound enforcing the sign or mark of the beast, then they will realize the importance of the Sabbath,—the seal of the living God. They who turn away from that which the Lord spoke when his voice shook the earth, will confess their fatal error when his voice shall shake the heavens and the earth. Hebrews 12:25, 26: Joel 3:9-16, and others. See also page 457 of this book.From Here to Forever
Chapter 26—Champions for Truth
HF 280.3
The Lord commands, “Seal the law among my disciples.” Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath as the Creator’s memorial and sign of His authority.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Restoration of the Truth
GrH_c 34.5
The Lord commands, “Seal the law among my disciples.” Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power,*This change is described in chapter 3 of The Great Controversy. the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath as the Creator’s memorial and sign of His authority.Isaiah 8:16-20
The Great Controversy
Chapter 26—A Work of Reform
GC 452.1
The Lord commands by the same prophet: “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows His claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the Decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath of the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator’s memorial and the sign of His authority.GC 452.2
“To the law and to the testimony.” While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring rule by which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be tested. Says the prophet: “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Verse 20.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 26—A Work of Reform
GC88 451.3
The Lord commands by the same prophet, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows his claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it, by exalting the Sabbath of the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator’s memorial and the sign of his authority.GC88 452.1
“To the law and to the testimony.” While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring rule by which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be tested. Says the prophet, “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 20—The Third Angel’s Message
4SP 284.1
The Lord commands by the same prophet, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows his claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it, by exalting the Sabbath of the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator’s memorial and the sign of his authority.4SP 284.2
“To the law and to the testimony.” While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring standard to which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be brought. Says the prophet, “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]Homeward Bound
Sabbath, the Seal of God’s Law, June 14
HB 187.1
Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.—Isaiah 8:16.HB 187.2
The Lord commands by the same prophet: “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” (Isaiah 8:16.) The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows His claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept, there is nothing in the Decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given. When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath of the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator’s memorial and the sign of His authority.HB 187.3
“To the law and to the testimony.” While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring rule by which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be tested. Says the prophet: “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Verse 20.) . . .Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 28, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 28, 1899, par. 4
“Bind up the testimony; seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold I, and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion. And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter, should not a people seek unto their God, for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:16-20.]Isaiah 8:18
Christ’s Object Lessons
The Lost Piece of Silver
COL 195.3
But those who have been guilty of neglect are not to despair. The woman whose coin was lost searched until she found it. So in love, faith, and prayer let parents work for their households, until with joy they can come to God saying, “Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me.” Isaiah 8:18.The Faith I Live By
Little Children May Be Christians, September 21
FLB 270.8
In love, faith, and prayer let parents work for their households, until with joy they can come to God saying, “Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me.” Isaiah 8:18.114Christ’s Object Lessons, 195, 196.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 49, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 49, 1894, par. 44
God help us every one to elevate the standard in our homes, lest the standard of Satan shall be established there. You want a household for God, you want your family for God. You want to take them up to the gates of the city [and say], “Here am I, Lord, and the children that thou hast given me.” [See Isaiah 8:18.] They may be men and women that have grown to manhood and womanhood, but they are your children all the same, and your educating, and your training, and your patience, and your prayers, and your watchfulness over them have been blessed of God, till they stand as overcomers. Now [they] can say, “Here am I, Lord, and the children”—their own children by birth only? No, indeed; every one that has been brought to the knowledge of the truth by them, come as their children. “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” [Daniel 12:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 20, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 5
Jesus says, “Behold, I and the children whom thou hast given me.” [Isaiah 8:18.] To Jesus the whole human family is entrusted, as the flocks of sheep are entrusted to a shepherd. These sheep and lambs are to be tended with pastoral care. They will be guarded by the faithful Chief Shepherd, under the care of faithful under shepherd, and if they will obey the voice of the Chief Shepherd, they will not be left to be devoured by wolves. We are Christ’s by creation, and by the giving of His life for the sheep.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 112, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 112, 1896, par. 15
May the Lord bless you and your children and give every one of them to you in loving service to Jesus Christ, who gave His precious life for them. God grant that you may approach the gates of the city of God and be able to say, “Here am I Lord, and the children thou hast given me.” [See Isaiah 8:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 229, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 43
Fathers, mothers, can you take your children right with you, as they come up in the morning of the resurrection, and say “Here, Lord, am I, and the children that Thou hast given me”? [See Isaiah 8:18.] Now they are God’s property; they are the younger members of the Lord’s family; and every soul of you that has brought children into the world is under obligation to God to educate and train those children for the future, immortal life. Will you take a course of idolatry and of sin, that these children shall follow your example, and you lose life, eternal life? I beg of you—for your soul’s sake, for the sake of your present happiness that you will have in your home, for the sake of the peace of God that you will have—follow the leader, Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 64, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 64, 1903, par. 14
Christ is their Redeemer, the Captain of their salvation. He leads them to the Father, saying with triumphant joy, “Here am I and the children whom Thou hast given Me.” [Isaiah 8:18.]Isaiah 8:19
This Day With God
Beware the Occult, August 26
TDG 247.1
And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? Isaiah 8:19.From Eternity Past
Chapter 67—Ancient and Modern Spiritualism
EP 495.4
Ancient sorcery and witchcraft were founded upon a belief in communion with the dead. Those who practiced necromancy claimed to obtain through departed spirits a knowledge of future events. “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?” Isaiah 8:19.Isaiah 8:19-20
Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 67—Ancient and Modern Sorcery
PP 684.1
Nearly all forms of ancient sorcery and witchcraft were founded upon a belief in communion with the dead. Those who practiced the arts of necromancy claimed to have intercourse with departed spirits, and to obtain through them a knowledge of future events. This custom of consulting the dead is referred to in the prophecy of Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?” Isaiah 8:19.PP 687.3
God has given us the warning by His prophet: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20.A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 17—Authority of Scripture
CSA 68.4
And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:19, 20.The Great Controversy
Chapter 34—Can Our Dead Speak to Us?
GC 559.1
Says the prophet Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20. If men had been willing to receive the truth so plainly stated in the Scriptures concerning the nature of man and the state of the dead, they would see in the claims and manifestations of spiritualism the working of Satan with power and signs and lying wonders. But rather than yield the liberty so agreeable to the carnal heart, and renounce the sins which they love, multitudes close their eyes to the light and walk straight on, regardless of warnings, while Satan weaves his snares about them, and they become his prey. “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” therefore “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 34—Spiritualism
GC88 559.2
Says the prophet Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:19, 20.] If men had been willing to receive the truth so plainly stated in the Scriptures, concerning the nature of man and the state of the dead, they would see in the claims and manifestations of Spiritualism the working of Satan with power and signs and lying wonders. But rather than yield the liberty so agreeable to the carnal heart, and renounce the sins which they love, multitudes close their eyes to the light, and walk straight on, regardless of warnings, while Satan weaves his snares about them, and they become his prey. “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” therefore “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” [2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11.]The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 29—Spiritualism
4SP 376.1
Says the prophet Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:19, 20.] If men had been willing to receive the truth so plainly stated in the Scriptures, that the dead know not anything, they would see in the claims and manifestations of Spiritualism the working of Satan with power and signs and lying wonders. But rather than yield the liberty so agreeable to the carnal heart, and renounce the sins which they love, the multitudes close their eyes to the light, and walk straight on, regardless of warnings, while Satan weaves his snares about them, and they become his prey. “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” therefore “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” [2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11.]The Story of Redemption
None Need Be Deceived
SR 397.1
Says the prophet Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20. If men had been willing to receive the truth so plainly stated in the Scriptures, that the dead know not anything, they would see in the claims and manifestations of Spiritualism the working of Satan with power and signs and lying wonders. But rather than yield the liberty so agreeable to the carnal heart, and renounce the sins which they love, the multitudes close their eyes to the light, and walk straight on, regardless of warnings, while Satan weaves his snares about them, and they become his prey. “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” therefore “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11.From Here to Forever
Bible Represented as Fiction
HF 342.3
“When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Bible Represented as Fiction
GrH_c 22.4
“When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20.A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
Mysterious Rapping
ExV 47.2
Said the angel, “Should not a people seek unto their God for the living to the dead? Should the living go to the dead for knowledge? The dead know not any thing. For the living God do ye go to the dead? [See Isaiah 8:19, 20.] They have departed from the living God to converse with the dead who know not any thing.”Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
Chapter 28—Modern Spiritualism
CET 168.1
August 24, 1850, I saw that the “mysterious rapping” was the power of Satan; some of it was directly from him, and some indirectly, through his agents, but it all proceeded from Satan. It was his work that he accomplished in different ways; yet many in the churches and the world were so enveloped in gross darkness that they thought and held forth that it was the power of God. Said the angel, “Should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?” Should the living go to the dead for knowledge? The dead know not anything. For the living God do ye go to the dead? They have departed from the living God to converse with the dead who know not anything. See Isaiah 8:19, 20.Darkness Before Dawn
The Pitfalls in Spirit Deception
DD 22.5
Says the prophet Isaiah: “When they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:19, 20. If men had been willing to receive the truth so plainly stated in the Scriptures concerning the nature of man and the state of the dead, they would see in the claims and manifestations of spiritualism the working of Satan with power and signs and lying wonders. But rather than yield the liberty so agreeable to the carnal heart, and renounce the sins which they love, multitudes close their eyes to the light and walk straight on, regardless of warnings, while Satan weaves his snares about them, and they become his prey. “Because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” therefore “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” 2 Thessalonians 2:10, 11.Early Writings
“Mysterious Rapping”
EW 59.1
August 24, 1850, I saw that the “mysterious rapping” was the power of Satan; some of it was directly from him, and some indirectly, through his agents, but it all proceeded from Satan. It was his work that he accomplished in different ways; yet many in the churches and the world were so enveloped in gross darkness that they thought and held forth that it was the power of God. Said the angel, “Should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?” Should the living go to the dead for knowledge? The dead know not anything. For the living God do ye go to the dead? They have departed from the living God to converse with the dead who know not anything. (See Isaiah 8:19, 20.).Early Writings
Introduction
EW 138.2
In Isaiah 8:19, 20, is a prophecy of the familiar spirits of the present time, and the law is given as a test: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Why say, “If they speak not,” if there was to be no true spiritual manifestation or prophesying at the same time? Jesus says, “Beware of false prophets.... Ye shall know them by their fruits.” Matthew 7:15, 16. This is a part of the Sermon on the Mount, and all can see that this discourse has a general application to the church through the gospel age. False prophets are to be known by their fruits; in other words, by their moral character. The only standard by which to determine whether their fruits are good or bad, is the law of God. Thus we are brought to the law and to the testimony. True prophets will not only speak according to this word, but they will live according to it. One who speaks and lives thus, I dare not condemn.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1
Spiritual Gifts
1SG 10.2
Again, we are forewarned that there would be false prophets in the last days, and the Bible gives a test by which to try their teachings, in order that we may distinguish between the true and the false. The grand test is the law of God, which is applied both to the prophesyings and to the moral character of the prophets. If there were to be no true prophesyings in the last days, how much easier to have stated the fact, and thus cut off all chance for deception, than to give a test by which to try them, as though there would be the genuine as well as the false.In Isaiah 8:19, 20, is a prophecy of the familiar spirits of the present time, and the law is given as a test. To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Why say, “if they speak not,” if there was to be no true spiritual manifestation or prophesying at the same time? Jesus says, beware of false prophets,...ye shall know them by their fruits. Matthew 7:15. This is a part of “The Sermon on The Mount,” and all can see that this discourse has a general application to the church throughout the Gospel age. False prophets are to be known by their fruits; in other words, by their moral character. The only standard by which to determine whether their fruits are good or bad, is the law of god. Hence we are brought to the law and to the testimony. True prophets will not only speak according to this word, but they must live according to it. One who speaks and lives thus I dare not condemn.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3
Spiritual Gifts
3SG 21.2
2. Isaiah 8:19, 20. “And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isaiah 8:20
Christ Triumphant
The Sermon on the Mount, August 21
CTr 240.2
Christ’s sermon on the mount was designed to enter into our everyday life. The commandments are so broad that they take hold of even our thoughts. But how few take heed to the words of our Saviour! Consequently we shall have objections to meet. Some will claim that they are wholly led by the Spirit, and consequently they have not much use for the law of God or any portion of God’s Word. Those who claim great light and are not sanctified through the truth are dangerous people, but they can be easily tested. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20....Faith and Works
The Test of Doctrine
FW 97.1
The prophet declares a truth by which we may test all doctrine. He says, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). Although error abounds in the world, there is no reason why men need remain in deception. The truth is plain, and when it is contrasted with error, its character may be discerned. All the subjects of God’s grace may understand what is required of them. By faith we may conform our lives to the standard of righteousness, because we can appropriate to ourselves the righteousness of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 242, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 242, 1908, par. 8
Preaching is one of Christ’s appointed means of instruction in the gospel. There may be a feeling of dissatisfaction toward those appointed to preach the Word; their words may not be pleasing to the natural heart; but let not this lead to differences and criticism and faultfinding. Feed upon the heavenly manna. There is much precious work to be done. Let none feel that it is their place to criticize, but let each stand in his lot and place. There must be responsible men, there must be counselors. It is not wisdom to praise certain ones while others who need words of cheer are left in discouragement. “To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
How Shall We Search the Scriptures?
GW92 130.1
If a brother is teaching error, those who are in responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being taught among us; for if it is truth, we need to know it. The Sabbath-school teacher needs to know it, and every Sabbath-school scholar ought to understand it. We are all under obligation to God to understand what he sends us. He has given directions by which we may test every doctrine,—“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] But if it is according to this test, do not be so full of prejudice that you cannot acknowledge a point simply because it does not agree with your ideas.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
The Test of New Light
GW 300.4
Our brethren should be willing to investigate in a candid way every point of controversy. If a brother is teaching error, those who are in responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being taught among us; for if it is truth, we need it. We are all under obligation to God to know what He sends us. He has given directions by which we may test every doctrine,—“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] If the light presented meets this test, we are not to refuse to accept it because it does not agree with our ideas.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
The Word of God Our Safeguard
GW 309.1
Our watchword is to be, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] We have a Bible full of the most precious truth. It contains the alpha and the omega of knowledge. The Scriptures, given by inspiration of God, are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] Take the Bible as your study-book. All can understand its instruction.Lift Him Up
The Glory of a Divine Power, April 14
LHU 118.5
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20)....Lift Him Up
The Word of God Our Safeguard, April 21
LHU 125.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1321—God’s Unchangeable Law
18MR 134.4
God has given us a test by which all may be tried. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” [Isaiah 8:20].Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1093—The Holy Spirit and God’s Word Agree
14MR 71.2
Some souls who claim to be believers have slighted, and turned from, the Word of God. They have neglected the Bible, the wonderful Guidebook, the true Tester of all ideas, and claim that they have the Spirit to teach them, that this renders searching the Scriptures unnecessary. All such are heeding the sophistry of Satan, for the Spirit and the Word agree. Say the Scriptures, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” [Isaiah 8:20]. He only is a free man whom the truth makes free.Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
God’s Law the Standard of Character
3MR 101.1
Christ’s sermon upon the mount was designed to enter into our everyday life. The commandments are so broad that they take hold of even our thoughts. But how few take heed to the words of our Saviour! Consequently we shall have objections to meet. Some will claim that they are wholly led by the Spirit, and consequently they have not much use for the law of God or any portion of God’s Word. Those who claim great light and are not sanctified through the truth are dangerous people, but they can be easily tested. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. We want to be in that condition that we can discern between light and darkness.Christ Triumphant
Not Only Believe, But Do the Will of the Father, December 23
CTr 364.3
Are those who so boldly claim to be sanctified doing the works of Christ? Are they holding up before the people the law of God given on Mount Sinai? They declare that they have with them the power of God, but the Scriptures declare: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20)....Maranatha
Counterfeits! May 28
Mar 156.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Maranatha
The Spirits and the Sunday Law Issue, June 8
Mar 167.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Maranatha
The Corruption of Truth, July 3
Mar 192.5
There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).8Selected Messages 2:98.Our Father Cares
The Lord’s Philosophy, September 28
OFC 283.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Our Father Cares
The Corruption of Truth, December 14
OFC 360.5
There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Reflecting Christ
The Scriptures Safeguard Against Deception, December 21
RC 369.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Selected Messages Book 1
Perils of Dissecting Inspired Messages
1SM 43.2
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). Even the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart is to be tested by the Word of God. The Spirit which inspired the Scriptures, always leads to the Scriptures.—General Conference Daily Bulletin, April 13, 1891.Selected Messages Book 2
A Message to J. M. Garmire
2SM 76.3
Some have come to me claiming to be Christ, and have apparently worked miracles. They have said that the Lord led me in many things, but the Sabbath was not a test question; that the law of God was not binding upon men; all we had to do was to accept Christ, and they themselves were Christ. I have had experience with all these pretentious claims, and I have no faith in them. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Selected Messages Book 2
Tested by “The Law and the Testimony”
2SM 98.3
There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). If they belittle the law of God, if they pay no heed to His will as revealed in the testimonies of His Spirit, they are deceivers. They are controlled by impulse and impressions, which they believe to be from the Holy Spirit, and consider more reliable than the Inspired Word. They claim that every thought and feeling is an impression of the Spirit; and when they are reasoned with out of the Scriptures, they declare that they have something more reliable. But while they think that they are led by the Spirit of God, they are in reality following an imagination wrought upon by Satan.—The Bible Echo, September, 1886.Selected Messages Book 2
Tested “By their Fruits”
2SM 99.1
In these days of peril we are not to accept everything that men bring to us as truth. As professed teachers from God come to us declaring that they have a message from God, it is proper to inquire carefully, How do we know that this is truth? Jesus has told us that “false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many” (Matthew 24:11). But we need not be deceived; for the Word of God gives us a test whereby we may know what is truth. The prophet says, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
Chapter 13—Consulting Spiritualist Physicians
CTBH 116.1
Our only safety is in preserving the ancient landmarks. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]Selected Messages Book 3
Chapter 4—The Primacy of the Word
3SM 30.5
Tested by the Bible—The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested.... Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).—The Great Controversy, Introduction, vii.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
The Word of God our Safeguard
8T 299.2
Our watchword is to be: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. We have a Bible full of the most precious truth. It contains the alpha and omega of knowledge. The Scriptures, given by inspiration of God, are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. Take the Bible as your study book. All can understand its instruction.Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 13—Dealing with Impure Thoughts and Suggestions
TSB 104.2
I call upon all who have had any confidence in these pretenders whose lives are not elevated and whose conversation is not pure, to measure them by the gospel rule: “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). Let the mirror of God’s Word reflect upon them, and discern the defects in their moral character.That I May Know Him
Exploring the Mine of Truth, July 8
TMK 195.3
Everything in the religious world is to be tried by the Scriptures. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). The claimed enlightenment of the Spirit within is to be tested and tried by the Word of God, which is the detector of the pure wheat....That I May Know Him
The True Standard of Character, October 21
TMK 300.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.The Great Controversy
Introduction
GC vii.3
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.The Great Controversy
Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard
GC 593.1
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Author’s Preface
GC88 e.1
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Counsels for the Church
The Testimonies and the Reader
CCh 29.5
The message of the true prophet must be in harmony with the law of God and the messages of the prophets. Isaiah 8:20.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard
GC88 593.1
“To the law and to the testimony. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work, the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and his followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true, that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 32—The Scriptures a Safeguard
4SP 411.1
“To the law and to the testimony. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work, the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final, despairing struggle against Christ and his followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true, that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.The Upward Look
The Holy Spirit Agrees With the Word, January 5
UL 19.3
Some souls who claim to be believers have slighted, and turned from, the Word of God. They have neglected the Bible, the wonderful Guidebook, the true Tester of all ideas, and claim that they have the Spirit to teach them, that this renders searching the Scriptures unnecessary. All such are heeding the sophistry of Satan, for the Spirit and the Word agree, say the Scriptures, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). He only is a free man whom the truth makes free....This Day With God
Making Your Trial Balance, March 25
TDG 93.3
If a brother is teaching error, those who are in responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being taught among us, for if it is truth, we need to know it. The Sabbath school teacher needs to know it, and every Sabbath school scholar ought to understand it. We are all under obligation to God to know what He sends to us. He has given directions by which we may test every doctrine—“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). But if it is according to this test, do not be so full of prejudice that you cannot acknowledge a point when it is proved to you, simply because it does not agree with your ideas.This Day With God
The Lord’s Philosophy, December 12
TDG 355.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Beware of false prophets.”—Matthew 7:15.
MB 145.2
We are not bidden to prove them by their fair speeches and exalted professions. They are to be judged by the word of God. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them.” “Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.” Isaiah 8:20; Proverbs 19:27. What message do these teachers bring? Does it lead you to reverence and fear God? Does it lead you to manifest your love for Him by loyalty to His commandments? If men do not feel the weight of the moral law; if they make light of God’s precepts; if they break one of the least of His commandments, and teach men so, they shall be of no esteem in the sight of heaven. We may know that their claims are without foundation. They are doing the very work that originated with the prince of darkness, the enemy of God.Ye Shall Receive Power
Guided Through the Written Testimony, April 19
YRP 118.1
To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20.Ye Shall Receive Power
Illumination Not Given Apart From the Word, April 20
YRP 119.3
There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). If they belittle the law of God, if they pay no heed to His will as revealed in the testimonies of His Spirit, they are deceivers. They are controlled by impulse and impressions, which they believe to be from the Holy Spirit, and consider more reliable than the Inspired Word. They claim that every thought and feeling is an impression of the Spirit; and when they are reasoned with out of the Scriptures, they declare that they have something more reliable. But while they think that they are led by the Spirit of God, they are in reality following an imagination wrought upon by Satan.—Selected Messages 2:98, 99.Ye Shall Receive Power
Not Trusting in Impressions, April 23
YRP 122.4
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Counsels for the Church
To Point Men to the Bible
CCh 92.2
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.118The Great Controversy vii.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
This Is the Test
NL 47.1
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested. [The Great Controversy, 593.]The Publishing Ministry
Introduction
PM 175.4
In the future, Satan’s superstitions will assume new forms. False theories, clothed with garments of light, will be presented to God’s people. Thus Satan will try to deceive if possible the very elect. Our watchword is to be, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).—Letter 238, 1903.Loma Linda Messages
Established Prosperity
LLM 33.2
Isaiah 8:20. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”The Present Truth (UK)
November 7, 1895
PrT November 7, 1895, par. 1
“To the law and to the testimony. If they speak not according to this Word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isa. viii. 20. The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions.The Bible Echo
July 27, 1896
BEcho July 27, 1896, par. 1
All who advocate truth in distinction to error have a special work to do in vindicating the law of God. Men inspired by a power from beneath have considered it their duty to uphold as the Sabbath of the Lord the first day of the week. By thus disregarding the claim of God, ministers who claim to preach the gospel are echoing the words told to Adam and Eve in Eden, that if they transgressed the law they would not die, but would be as gods, knowing good and evil. By their influence and example, these false shepherds have caused a lie to be received as a truth. With persevering energy they have laboured to establish a spurious sabbath, and this man-made institution has received the homage of the greater part of the world. But this does not make a day holy which God has given us as a common working day. Though this error be hoary with age, though the world bow in reverence to it, it still remains an error and a delusion; for God says, “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)
Early Arguments for the Spirit of Prophecy
1BIO 77.2
“Try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. “If the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken.” Deuteronomy 18:22.—Ibid.Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)
James White on the Prophetic Gift
1BIO 130.1
He then added a word of admonition: “I hope that all who may read it will take the wise and safe course pointed out to us by the following passages of Scripture. ‘Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good’ [1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21]. ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them’ [Isaiah 8:20].”—A Word to the Little Flock, 13, 14.Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
One of the first in Europe
EGWE 58.3
Bourdeau confessed that after this experience*The first physical phenomena associated with Ellen White’s open visions during the forty years of her ministry constituted convincing evidence to many of her contemporaries that her visions were genuine and not a hoax or a trick of the devil. But neither Mrs. White nor her contemporaries who believed she was a true messenger of God held that these extraordinary manifestations were fundamental tests of her validity as a prophet. They were evidences among other evidences. Since Satan could presumably counterfeit the physical phenomena, there would have to be more basic tests. These tests are defined in the following scriptures: Matthew 7:15-20; Isaiah 8:20; Jeremiah 28:9; 1 John 4:1, 2. Careful students agree that Mrs. White’s life and work measured up to these Biblical standards. he was never again inclined to doubt the divine origin of Mrs. White’s visions. During the European Council soon to follow, Bourdeau’s confidence would be put to a severe test, but it would not be shaken. And it never was.The Review and Herald
April 3, 1888
RH April 3, 1888, par. 1
Text: “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Venture Not on Satan’s Ground
2TT 58.3
Our only safety is in preserving the ancient landmarks. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Counsels on Health
God the Helper of His People
CH 459.2
Our only safety is in preserving the ancient landmarks. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
The Word of God Our Safeguard
3TT 276.2
Our watchword is to be: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. We have a Bible full of the most precious truth. It contains the alpha and omega of knowledge. The Scriptures, given by inspiration of God, are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. Take the Bible as your study book. All can understand its instruction.From Here to Forever
Lifting the Veil on the Future
HF 9.2
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.True Revival
This Is the Test
TR 54.1
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.—The Great Controversy, 593.Homeward Bound
The Scriptures Our Safeguard, January 30
HB 45.1
To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.—Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 35a, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 35a, 1877, par. 8
You claimed to have liberty in prayer and in meetings. Is this the criterion of Christian character? Dare you trust to feelings as an evidence of fellowship with God? “To the law and to the testimony: If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. The mild beloved disciple has said, “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2:4. The Word of God is very plain and pointed. It is dangerous business to profess to be a follower of Jesus and in works deny Him by indifference even to one of His requirements.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 9, 1880
3LtMs, Ms 9, 1880, par. 46
I call upon all who have had any confidence in these pretenders, whose lives are not elevated and whose conversation is not pure, to measure them by the gospel rule: “to the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. Let the mirror of God’s Word reflect upon them and discern the defects in their moral character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 43, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 43, 1886, par. 14
We must learn to stand upon the principles of God’s Word: “To the law and to the testimony.” [Isaiah 8:20.] We need the Spirit of God to enlighten us. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20. We want to let the Saviour into our hearts, give Him our best affections, and let the work go on of sanctifying and purifying the heart, and then we shall see the King in His beauty. Let us rely upon God and realize the great sacrifice that has been made for us, and we shall wear the crown throughout an endless eternity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 27, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 27, 1886, par. 9
Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:17, 18. And He says again, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20. Are those who so boldly claim to be sanctified doing the works of Christ? Are they holding up before the people the law of God given on Mount Sinai? They declare that they have with them the power of God, but the Scriptures declare: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 65, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 49
Impressions and feelings are no criterion. God’s Word is the only rule of faith and action. All the feelings, emotions, and impressions are unreliable. All their dreams and exercises must bear the test of “What saith the Scriptures?” “To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] What is the chaff to the wheat? Are impressions, exercises of feeling, ideas, or anything of this character compared with a plain “Thus saith the Lord”?Darkness Before Dawn
Chapter 7—Our Only Safeguard
DD 36.1
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 22, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 22, 1885, par. 12
We could but see that the very same spirit was working in the same manner as when Christ was upon the earth. The Pharisees and the scribes and rulers were constantly devising some plan against Him that they might catch Him in His words. They set spies upon His track. Satan has different deceptions prepared for different minds. God has given us a test whereby we may not be deceived. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 45, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 45, 1886, par. 7
Christ’s sermon upon the mount was designed to enter into our everyday life. The commandments are so broad that they take hold of even our thoughts. But how few take heed to the words of our Saviour! Consequently we shall have objections to meet. Some will claim that they are wholly led by the Spirit, and consequently they have not much use for the law of God or any portion of God’s Word. Those who claim great light and are not sanctified through the truth are dangerous people, but they can be easily tested. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. We want to be in that condition that we can discern between light and darkness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 26d, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 26d, 1887, par. 33
Be faithful students of the holy Scriptures; test all that is taught to you in doctrine by the Bible. “To the law and to the testimony: If they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] Know for yourselves what is truth, and your minds will expand with the highest, purest, noblest thoughts, and your acquirements will be solid, and you can take all these improvements with you into the future life. Shepherds of the flock must be holy men, men who are elevated, men who have moral worth, men free from every pollution. They may be betrayed into sin, but if they at once repent and confess and forsake and abhor their sins, and seek strength from Jesus Christ, they will recover themselves out of Satan’s power.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 1, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 1, 1889, par. 16
Have we been grasping the precious truths point after point as they have been presented? Or have you been thinking that you follow your own ideas and opinions and read and judge the Word of God by your opinions and theories? Or will you take your ideas and theories to the Word of God and let the living oracles reveal to you where the deficiencies and defects are in your ideas and theories? We cannot take a position that we will judge the Word of God because we believe thus and so. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 12, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 34
Some have come to me claiming to be Christ, and have apparently worked miracles. They have said that the Lord led me in many things, but the Sabbath was not a test question; that the law of God was not binding upon men; all we had to do was to accept Christ, and they themselves were Christ. I have had experience with all these pretentious claims, and I have no faith in them. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 56, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 56, 1890, par. 13
Those that are in responsible positions, I say you are under obligation to God to know what is going on here. And then everything that is said—right “to the law and testimony; if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] If the light is in them, and they have it, why, I beseech you, do not be so full of prejudice.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19d, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19d, 1892, par. 24
Should the Lord’s messengers, after standing manfully for the truth for a time, fall under temptation and dishonor Him who has given them their work, will that be proof that the message is not true? No, because the Bible is true. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] Sin on the part of the messenger of God would cause Satan to rejoice, and those who have rejected the messenger and the message would triumph; but it would not at all clear the men who were guilty of rejecting the message of truth sent of God.Faith and Works
Chapter 7—How to Tell if God is Leading
FW 55.1
You will meet, as I have, with people who profess to be sanctified, holy. Now, there is a bewitching influence carried with this doctrine. They will state to you wonderful exercises of mind to show you that the Lord is leading them and teaching them. Then how can you tell but that the Lord is leading them? Well, there is a test: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 4, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 4, 1893, par. 25
There is great danger in encouraging these things that come from the human agent, which are but a weak repetition of the words of inspiration from God, and that make feeble that which is sufficient, full and complete. I would counsel every one, Study your Bibles, and obey the Word so plainly given to us. None need to turn from the Word to human agencies, and accept a lower standard than that which is given in the exposition of the ten holy requirements of God. The great principles of the law of God are made plain to the comprehension of all who in their hearts desire to discern truth from error—“to the law and to the testimony.” [Isaiah 8:20.] Let the Word of God dwell in you richly. Let every one of the messengers lead souls to plant their feet on the sure Word of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 62, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 62, 1893, par. 2
Everything in the religious world is to be tried by the Scriptures. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. The claimed enlightenment of the Spirit within is to be tested and tried by the Word of God which is the detector of the pure wheat. All operations of the Spirit of God within will lead every soul exercised by the Holy Spirit to cleave unto the inspired Word as a standard of character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 1, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 1, 1894, par. 5
Some souls who claim to be believers have slighted, and turned from, the Word of God. They have neglected the Bible, the wonderful Guidebook, the true tester of all ideas, and claim that they have the Spirit to teach them, that this renders the searching [of] the Scriptures unnecessary. All such are heeding the sophistry of Satan, for the Spirit and the Word agree. Say the Scriptures, “To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] He only is a free man whom the truth makes free.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Isaiah 8:1-22
Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1446—Seek God’s Will; Distrust Self; Adopt Health Principles; Follow Christ in Self-denial and Sacrifice
20MR 111.3
“For the Lord shall rise up as in mount Perazim, He shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that He may do His work, His strange work; and bring to pass His act, His strange act. Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord God of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.” Read Deuteronomy 7:6. Read the whole chapter, also chapters 1, 8. These were presented to me as the words of the Lord. These things are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 164, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 164, 1896, par. 7
The chapters we were reading in course were in Isaiah. He read with us, and the very portions of Scripture which specified his sin was read by himself. We thought we would give him every chance to make the application to his own case and this might awaken in him a remorse, but it did not seem to have the least influence. He did that night—after we labored with him a long while and then left him with Brother Rousseau and Brother Prescott—confess his sins of vileness, and the conditions were plainly stated, if he would break away at once, and return to New Zealand, we would furnish him money. But he said positively he would not go to New Zealand.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 132, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 132, 1898, par. 26
God chooses His workers from all classes of people, and imbues them with His own spirit. So it was in ancient times. The men and women of God’s selection were of intense earnestness, full of zeal. The last books of the Old Testament show us workers taken from the laborers in the field. Others were men of high ability and extensive learning, but the Lord gave them visions and messages. These men of the Old Testament spoke of the things transpiring in their day, and Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel not only spoke of things that concerned them as present truth, but their sight reached down to the future, and to what should occur in these last days.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 18 (1903)
Ms 45, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 45, 1903, par. 8
A most decided warning was given by our Instructor. He repeated the following words, found in the eighth chapter of Isaiah:18LtMs, Ms 45, 1903, par. 9
“Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the Lord of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many of them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” [Verses 12-15.]18LtMs, Ms 45, 1903, par. 11
“Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” Let this be your safeguard. “And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth His face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for Him. Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion.” [Verses 16-18.] “Fear ye not, neither be ye afraid; have I not told you from that time, and have declared it? Ye are even My witnesses. Is there a God beside Me? Yea, there is no God: I know not any.” [Isaiah 44:8.]18LtMs, Ms 45, 1903, par. 12
“And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God, for the living to the dead? To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:19, 20.] Satan will bring in many devices to draw men from the truth. Let God’s people take warning. Let them refuse to mingle with the world in a way that will endanger their spiritual interests. Let not too many cares and responsibilities be placed on one man; for if this is done, that man will lose his balance and will follow a course that will defeat the purpose he desires to fulfil.