EGW WritingsJames 5

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 121, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 121, 1902, par. 2

In all your councils, there is altogether too much human wisdom manifested and too little of the wisdom that makes men wise unto salvation. I am instructed to say, Put away from the heart the sins of unbelief, selfishness, self-confidence, evil-speaking. Repent before the Lord for any wrong done in your family. Come to God; confess your evil works; confess all the wrongs that you have committed toward your brethren and sisters in the church; make all things right. “Confess your faults one to another.” [James 5:16.] Humble your hearts before God, the great Heart-searcher. To those who with full purpose of heart humble themselves before God, in an earnest desire to become true representatives of Christ, is given the promise, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 6a, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 6a, 1902, par. 4

God’s servants are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] The lamp of the soul is to be kept trimmed and burning. People need the truth, and by earnest, faithful effort it is to be communicated to them. Everything that can be done to save sinners should be done without delay. Souls are to be sought for, prayed for, labored for. Earnest appeals are to be made. Fervent prayers are to be offered. Our tame, spiritless petitions need to be changed to petitions of intense earnestness. God’s Word declares, “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” [James 5:16.]

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Effectual Prayer

GW92 426.2

Let us learn to pray intelligently, expressing our requests with clearness and precision. Let us put away the listless, sluggish habit into which we have fallen, and pray as though we meant it. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” [James 5:16.] Faith takes a firm hold of the promises of God, and urges her petitions with fervor; but when the life of the soul stagnates, the outward devotions become formal and powerless.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 6, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 6, 1902, par. 4

God’s servants are to work. People need the light of truth, and by earnest, faithful effort it is to be communicated to them. There are souls to be sought for, prayed for, labored for. The lamps of the souls are to be kept trimmed and burning. God’s servants are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] Everything that can be done to save souls should be done without delay. Earnest appeals should be made. Fervent prayers should be offered. God’s Word declares, “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” [James 5:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 15, 1903

“Confess your faults one to another.” [James 5:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 111a, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, par. 18

The Saviour’s life is before us. It is our pattern. In all that we do, we are to seek the good of others. We are not to speak ill, but well of one another. When mistakes are made, these are not to be made the object of general conversation. Christ’s direction is, “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, and ye shall be healed.” [James 5:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 77, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 77, 1907, par. 14

It ought to be a great encouragement to you in your work to think of the compassion and tender love of God for those who are seeking and praying for light. We should hold convocations for prayer to ask the Lord to open the way that the truth may enter the strongholds, where Satan has set up his throne, and dispel the shadow which he has cast athwart the pathway of those he is seeking to deceive and to destroy. We have the promise, or rather, the assurance, “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” [James 5:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 194, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 194, 1908, par. 3

These words were clearly and forcibly spoken: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” [James 5:16.] Press together, and love as brethren. Pray together. The Lord has paid the price of His own blood for the salvation of the world. He suffered every indignity that men could devise and Satan could invent in order to carry out the plan of salvation. Let not the teacher seek to exalt self, but let him see the necessity of learning of Christ daily and making Him the pattern. For teachers and students, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ should be the only example.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 69, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 69, 1908, par. 9

These words were clearly and forcibly spoken: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. Press together; press together, and love as brethren. Pray together.” [See James 5:16; 1 Peter 3:8.] The Lord has paid the price of his own blood for the salvation of the world. He suffered every indignity that men could devise and Satan could invent, in order to carry out the plan of salvation. Let not the teacher seek to exalt self, but let him see the necessity of learning of Christ daily, and making him the pattern. For teachers and students our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ should be the only example.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 29, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 29, 1911, par. 14

In praying for the sick, there is a danger of carrying matters to extremes. This part of our experience demands wisdom and much solid, sanctified thinking, else we shall put presumption in the place of faith. Prayer for the sick is essential and is in harmony with the Word of God. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” [James 5:16.] We should feel helpless indeed could we not go to God in our weakness and infirmity and tell the compassionate Saviour all about our needs. When those who are worn down by affliction present themselves before God to be prayed for, they are not to take the peek position that it would be a denial of faith to use the means God has provided to alleviate pain and to assist nature in her work. It is not a denial of faith to use this means, but is in direct harmony with His plans.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Sun of Righteousness, November 13

JNN 334.4

We may ask of our Lord, knowing that we shall receive. We need more of Christ’s humility and meekness, that we may have fervent charity among ourselves; then we may pray, then we may intercede with God. Thus we shall prove the truth of the word, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16). “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him” (Psalm 25:14). But those whom the Lord would use are in great danger of getting on human stilts. There is earnest work to be done. There is need of walking with God. Then tracts right to the point will be issued.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Confession of Sin

GW 216.2

The Scripture bids us, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” [James 5:16.] To the one asking for prayer, let thoughts like these be presented, “We cannot read the heart, or know the secrets of your life. These are known only to yourself and to God. If you repent of your sins, it is your duty to make confession of them.”

In Heavenly Places

A Chain of Earnest, Praying Believers, March 27

HP 93.4

There is nothing more needed in the work than the practical results of communion with God. We should hold convocations for prayer, asking the Lord to open the way for the truth to enter the strongholds where Satan has set up his throne, and dispel the shadow he has cast athwart the pathway of those whom he is seeking to deceive and destroy. We have the assurance, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16).53The Review and Herald, April 30, 1908.

Lift Him Up

Secret Prayer and Bible Study, October 12

LHU 299.1

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16.

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

MR No. 1533—Counsel to an Immoral Administrator in an Adventist Institution

21MR 157.2

“Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” [James 5:19, 20]. “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed” [James 5:16].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 16, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 16, 1888, par. 2

“Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:19, 20. “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” James 5:16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 15, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 15, 1888, par. 15

Will you not, my brethren, examine yourselves to see if there are not humble confessions to be made in regard to this sin of evil-surmising, watching for evil, thinking of evil, and talking of evil? If these things are cherished, God cannot bless you. All this must be put out of the heart. “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him, let him know that he which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:16-20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 32a, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, par. 26

The instruction has been given to us, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayer earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:16-20.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Sustaining the Spiritual Life, August 8

AG 228.2

God speaks to us in His Word. Here we have in clearer lines the revelation of His character, of His dealings with men, and the great work of redemption. Here is open before us the history of patriarchs and prophets and other holy men of old. They were men “subject to like passions as we are” (James 5:17). We see how they struggled through discouragements like our own, how they fell under temptation as we have done, and yet took heart again and conquered through the grace of God: and beholding, we are encouraged in our striving after righteousness. As we read of the precious experiences granted them, of the light and love and blessing it was theirs to enjoy, and of the work they wrought through the grace given them, the spirit that inspired them kindles a flame of holy emulation in our hearts and a desire to be like them in character—like them to walk with God.

Homeward Bound

Stay Focused on Christ, February 15

HB 62.3

It was thus that the early disciples gained their likeness to the dear Saviour. When those disciples heard the words of Jesus, they felt their need of Him. They sought, they found, they followed Him. They were with Him in the house, at the table, in the closet, in the field. They were with Him as pupils with a teacher, daily receiving from His lips lessons of holy truth. They looked to Him, as servants to their master, to learn their duty. Those disciples were men “subject to like passions as we are.” (James 5:17.) They had the same battle with sin to fight. They needed the same grace, in order to live a holy life.

Prayer

Elijah

Pr 138.3

It was because Elijah was a man of large faith that God could use him in this grave crisis in the history of Israel. As he prayed, his faith reached out and grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer until his petitions were answered. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him, but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And yet what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere of activity in God’s service; for of the prophet from the mountains of Gilead it is written: “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” James 5:17.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 12—From Jezreel to Horeb

PK 156.3

It was because Elijah was a man of large faith that God could use him in this grave crisis in the history of Israel. As he prayed, his faith reached out and grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer until his petitions were answered. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him, but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And yet what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere of activity in God’s service; for of the prophet from the mountains of Gilead it is written: “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” James 5:17.

Steps to Christ

Chapter 8—Growing Up Into Christ

SC 72.2

It was thus that the early disciples gained their likeness to the dear Saviour. When those disciples heard the words of Jesus, they felt their need of Him. They sought, they found, they followed Him. They were with Him in the house, at the table, in the closet, in the field. They were with Him as pupils with a teacher, daily receiving from His lips lessons of holy truth. They looked to Him, as servants to their master, to learn their duty. Those disciples were men “subject to like passions as we are.” James 5:17. They had the same battle with sin to fight. They needed the same grace, in order to live a holy life.

Steps to Christ

Chapter 10—A Knowledge of God

SC 87.3

God speaks to us in His word. Here we have in clearer lines the revelation of His character, of His dealings with men, and the great work of redemption. Here is open before us the history of patriarchs and prophets and other holy men of old. They were men “subject to like passions as we are.” James 5:17. We see how they struggled through discouragements like our own, how they fell under temptation as we have done, and yet took heart again and conquered through the grace of God; and, beholding, we are encouraged in our striving after righteousness. As we read of the precious experiences granted them, of the light and love and blessing it was theirs to enjoy, and of the work they wrought through the grace given them, the spirit that inspired them kindles a flame of holy emulation in our hearts and a desire to be like them in character—like them to walk with God.

From Splendor to Shadow

Chapter 12—The Prophet Loses Faith, and Panics

SS 83.1

Because Elijah was a man of large faith, God could use him. His faith grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere in God’s service. “Elijah was a man of like nature with ourselves and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth.” James 5:17, RSV.

Homeward Bound

Hearing Jesus’ Voice, January 8

HB 23.2

God speaks to us in His word. Here we have in clearer lines the revelation of His character, of His dealings with us, and the great work of redemption. Here is open before us the history of patriarchs and prophets and other holy believers of old. They were “subject to like passions as we are.” (James 5:17.) We see how they struggled through discouragements like our own, how they fell under temptation as we have done, and yet took heart again and conquered through the grace of God; and, beholding, we are encouraged in our striving after righteousness. As we read of the precious experiences granted them, of the light and love and blessing it was theirs to enjoy, and of the work they wrought through the grace given them, the spirit that inspired them kindles a flame of holy emulation in our hearts and a desire to be like them in character—like them to walk with God.

Conflict and Courage

Emptied of Self, July 25

CC 212.1

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18.

God’s Amazing Grace

Elijah’s Example, March 21

AG 88.1

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18.

Our Father Cares

Humble, Persevering Prayer, April 13

OFC 115.1

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18.

Our High Calling

Humble, Persevering Prayer, May 7

OHC 133.1

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18.

From the Heart

Prayer Lessons From Elijah, January 6

FH 18.1

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit. James 5:17, 18.

In Heavenly Places

A Helping Hand for the Despairing, October 15

HP 295.1

Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. James 5:19, 20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 43, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 43, 1895, par. 10

There is but one power that can bring us into conformity to the likeness of Christ, that can make us steadfast and keep us constant. It is the grace of God which leads us to obey the law of God, the transcript of the divine character. It is a knowledge of Christ Jesus which we should cultivate to the uttermost of our power, in order that we may be doers of His Word. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him: let him know, that he which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.] Is not this a work that pays? Will we make Jesus glad? Will we cause rejoicing among the angels of God? We can do so by co-operating with God in seeking and saving that which was lost. “There is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, than over the ninety and nine who need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] Shall we not co-operate with heavenly angels in the work of saving fallen humanity?

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Dealing with the Erring

2TT 114.3

We are not to condemn others; this is not our work; but we should love one another and pray for one another. When we see one err from the truth, then we may weep over him as Christ wept over Jerusalem. Let us see what our heavenly Father in His word says about the erring: “If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1. “If any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:19, 20. What a great missionary work is this! how much more Christlike than for poor, fallible mortals to be ever accusing and condemning those who do not exactly meet their minds. Let us remember that Jesus knows us individually and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He knows the wants of each of His creatures and reads the hidden, unspoken grief of every heart. If one of the little ones for whom He died is injured, He sees it and calls the offender to account. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He cares for His feeble, sickly, wandering sheep. He knows them all by name. The distress of every sheep and every lamb of His flock touches His heart of sympathizing love, and the cry for aid reaches His ear. One of the greatest sins of the shepherds of Israel is thus pointed out by the prophet: “The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them. And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered. My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: yea, My flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and none did search or seek after them.” Ezekiel 34:4-6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 66, 1884

4LtMs, Lt 66, 1884, par. 11

Now, while probation lingers, it does not become one to pronounce sentence upon others, and look to himself as a model man. Christ is our model; imitate Him, plant your feet in His steps. You may professedly believe every point of present truth, but unless you practice these truths it will avail you nothing. We are not to condemn others; this is not our work; but we should love one another and pray for one another. When we see one err from the truth, then we may weep over him as Christ wept over Jerusalem. Let us see what our heavenly Father, in His Word, says about the erring: “If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” [Galatians 6:1.] “If any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him, let him know that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.] What a great missionary work is this! How much more Christ-like than for poor fallible mortals to be ever accusing and condemning those who do not exactly meet their minds.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 8a, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 8a, 1888, par. 20

The apostle James, inspired by Jesus Christ, lays down our duty in clear lines. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.] We are Christ’s witnesses, Christ’s representatives. In his epistle to Titus, Paul charges him to set in order things that are wanting in the church. [Titus 1:5.] “Speak thou the things which become sound doctrine,” he says. The teacher of truth is to educate all, both old and young. He is to exhort aged men to be “sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” [Titus 2:1-5.] When those who profess to be servants of Christ do not walk circumspectly, God is dishonored and the truth is reproached.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 4, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 4, 1888, par. 11

I write these things in love, not to reproach you but [to] tell you how I view these things from the light which the Lord has given me. There is plenty of this uninteresting cross-lifting to do, but oh, it pays, it pays. “Brethren, if any man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1. “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way ... Follow peace with all men and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord; looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God, lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” Hebrews 12:12-15. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him, let him know that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:19, 20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 92, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 92, 1893, par. 7

Paul wrote to the Galatians, in Galatians 6:1, [2], “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ.” I have been much pained when one is deceived and falls into error, that they are too often left out in the cold, without making decided efforts to recover them. To censure them, and call them dishonest is not the way to do. “Ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness.” If this work has been done, and they will not hear, we must go forward in warning the church of their defection. But has there been the opening the Bible with prayer and earnest interest to recover the erring? If not, then there has been a positive neglect of following the counsel of God. Certainly these men have been weaving a very plausible fabric although it is error; but the erring should be treated with tender love for Christ’s sake. “Brethren if any of you do err from the truth and one convert him; let him know, that he which coverteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 101, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 101, 1894, par. 10

In every department of the work, the standard of education must be of a higher order, and this will be the result when the divine Presence is discerned, for then we shall walk before the Lord and be perfect through His grace given unto us. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” [Galatians 6:1.] When all is done that can be done according to the Bible rule, when you have manifested the gentleness, the compassion, the love that Christ has manifested toward you, and still the unruly or erring one does not reform, what then? I would still urge forbearance. I would still plead that those who have the spirit of Christ should put forth more effort, considering well the effect of every action. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know that he which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 19—The Measure of Forgiveness

COL 250.3

When one turns away from human imperfections to behold Jesus, a divine transformation takes place in the character. The Spirit of Christ working upon the heart conforms it to His image. Then let it be your effort to lift up Jesus. Let the mind’s eye be directed to “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. And as you engage in this work, remember that “he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

The Review and Herald

January 20, 1903

RH January 20, 1903, Art. A, par. 6

God’s servants are to make use of every resource for enlarging his kingdom. The apostle Paul declares that it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth,” that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men” 1 Timothy 2:3, 4, 1. And James says, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20. Every believer is pledged to unite with his brethren in giving the invitation, “Come; for all things are now ready.” Luke 14:17. Each is to encourage the others in doing whole-hearted work. Earnest invitations will be given by a living church. Thirsty souls will be led to the water of life.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Church Discipline

3TT 201.2

Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ’s love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words: “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?

HLv 298.3

Do not put the erring one to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor on Christ by making public the sin of one who bears His name. The erring must be led to see his error, that he may reform; but you are not to judge or condemn. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. If you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

Homeward Bound

Dealing With Misunderstandings, August 16

HB 253.2

Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ’s love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words: “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” (James 5:20.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 21c, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 21c, 1892, par. 15

“He which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] The people need to be enlightened at every point how to take care of themselves. This work you could both do for the Master if you were willing and obedient. [Then] you will not walk in the sparks of your own kindling, but in obedience to God’s holy law. You will walk in humility and will seek to uplift those who are weak and trembling. You will not aim to see how much means you can acquire, but will manifest the same spirit of which Christ has given us an example in His life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 3, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 3, 1899, par. 23

We have never seen so great an interest in any place as at this meeting, and it means much to us. If we have a church here in Newcastle, it will mean a great strength to the Avondale school. The Word of God is truth. We try to teach the people that many who read the Bible, many who attempt to teach the Bible, do not explain it correctly, because they do not read it with a converted heart. “He that converteth a sinner from the error of his ways, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] This converting power comes only through the Holy Spirit moving on the human mind, and it is that that enables men to understand what the truth of the Word comprehends. This is the light which lighteneth every man that cometh into the world. This light shines upon every true student of prophecy, and the light that illuminates the Word shines beyond him who reads it, coming into his understanding, and shining forth from him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 141, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 141, 1900, par. 22

There is need of exercising the most tender sympathy and kindness and love toward those who err from the truth. My brethren, remember the words, “Let him know, that he which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] We are all to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and to watch unto prayer. Be not troubled that students do not come to the school. This may be in the providence of God. Do your duty to those who do attend, and labor for their conversion to the truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 96, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, par. 17

Let the members of our churches arise and fulfil the commission given them by the Saviour—a commission they have long neglected. The Word of God declares, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” [Daniel 12:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 127, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 50

God’s servants are to make use of every resource for enlarging His kingdom. The apostle Paul, a faithful steward of the grace of God, declares that it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth,” that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” [1 Timothy 2:3, 4, 1.] And James says, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] Every member of the church is pledged to unite with his brethren in giving the invitation, “Come, for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.] Each is to encourage the other in doing whole-souled work. Earnest invitations will come from a living church. Thirsty souls will be led to the water of life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 61, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 7

No one has any right to strike the name of a church member off the church books before the directions given by the Saviour have been followed to the letter. Go to the erring one, not in a hard, denunciatory spirit, not in a cold, unfeeling spirit, destitute of the grace of Christ, but in a loving, compassionate spirit. Talk kindly to him. Let him see that you have a real interest in him. Remember the words, “He which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.]

Counsels for the Church

Christ’s Methods in Church Discipline

CCh 256.4

Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ’s love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words: “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 113, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 113, 1902, par. 42

The youth in our institutions need the help of wholesome, encouraging words and unselfish deeds. Treat them as Christ’s children, whom He wants you to help in every time of need. They are very precious to Him. He gave His life for them. Make friends of them. Bring Christlikeness into your life, that you may help them. Give them evidence of your love. Patiently, tenderly, strive to lead them to Jesus. You know not the good you may accomplish by putting forth earnest, unselfish effort for them. “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Infinite Love, January 12

JNN 19.2

When one turns away from human imperfections to behold Jesus, a divine transformation takes place in the character. The Spirit of Christ working upon the heart conforms it to His image. Then let it be your effort to lift up Jesus. Let the mind’s eye be directed to “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). And as you engage in this work, remember that “he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:20).

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Church Discipline

GW 499.2

Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault, will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ’s love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words, “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.]

In Heavenly Places

Living by the Golden Rule, October 10

HP 290.4

We should remember that all make mistakes; even men and women who have had years of experience sometimes err. But God does not cast them off because of their errors; to every erring son and daughter of Adam He gives the privilege of another trial. The true follower of Jesus manifests a Christlike spirit toward his erring brother. Instead of speaking in condemnation, he remembers the words, “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:20).

Reflecting Christ

The Ground of Forgiveness, September 18

RC 275.5

When one turns away from human imperfections to behold Jesus, a divine transformation takes place in the character. The Spirit of Christ working upon the heart conforms it to His image. Then let it be your effort to lift up Jesus. Let the mind’s eye be directed to “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). And as you engage in this work, remember that “he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:20).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

An Ever-Widening Work

7T 14.3

God’s servants are to make use of every resource for enlarging His kingdom. The apostle Paul declares that it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth,” that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” 1 Timothy 2:3, 4, 1. And James says: “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20. Every believer is pledged to unite with his brethren in giving the invitation, “Come; for all things are now ready.” Luke 14:17. Each is to encourage the others in doing wholehearted work. Earnest invitations will be given by a living church. Thirsty souls will be led to the water of life.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 52—Church Discipline

7T 261.2

Whatever the character of the offense, this does not change the plan that God has made for the settlement of misunderstandings and personal injuries. Speaking alone and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault will often remove the difficulty. Go to the erring one, with a heart filled with Christ’s love and sympathy, and seek to adjust the matter. Reason with him calmly and quietly. Let no angry words escape your lips. Speak in a way that will appeal to his better judgment. Remember the words: “He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?

DA 440.3

In the spirit of meekness, “considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted,” (Galatians 6:1), go to the erring one, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Do not put him to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor upon Christ by making public the sin or error of one who bears His name. Often the truth must be plainly spoken to the erring; he must be led to see his error, that he may reform. But you are not to judge or to condemn. Make no attempt at self-justification. Let all your effort be for his recovery. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch, the finest sensibility. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. With pitying tenderness, let brother deal with brother, knowing that if you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

An Appeal for Self-supporting Laborers to Enter Unworked Fields

Encouraging One Another

PH005 6.2

God’s servants are to make use of every resource for enlarging His kingdom. The apostle Paul declares that it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come into the knowledge of the truth,” that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” 1 Timothy 2:3, 4, 1. And James says, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20. Every believer is pledged to unite with his brethren in giving the invitation, “Come; for all things are now ready.” Luke 14:17. Each is to encourage the others in doing whole-hearted work. Earnest invitations will be given by a living church. Thirsty souls will be led to the water of life. Testimonies for the Church 7:14, 15.