EGW WritingsJeremiah 23

Ellen G. White

Jeremiah 23:1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 35, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 35, 1900, par. 21

The message God gives through His servants will be scorned and derided by the unfaithful shepherds, who tread down with their feet the feed of the pastures, giving the flock as food that which they have defiled. “Woe to the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pastures,” saith the Lord. [Jeremiah 23:1.] No outward nearness to God, no acceptance of sacred work, will screen from the divine wrath those who trample under feet the law of Jehovah.

Jeremiah 23:1-2

The Great Controversy

Chapter 41—Desolation of the Earth

GC 655.2

“Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture! ... Behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings.” “Howl, ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves in the ashes, ye principal of the flock: for your days for slaughter and of your dispersions are accomplished; ... and the shepherds shall have no way to flee, nor the principal of the flock to escape.” Jeremiah 23:1, 2; 25:34, 35, margin.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 41—Desolation of the Earth

GC88 655.2

“Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! ... Behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings.” “Howl, ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves in the ashes, ye principal of the flock; for your days for slaughter and your dispersions are accomplished; ... and the shepherds shall have no way to flee, nor the principal of the flock to escape.” [Jeremiah 23:1, 2; 25:34, 35 (Margin).]

From Here to Forever

Chapter 41—The Earth in Ruins

HF 395.2

The minister who has sacrificed truth to gain the favor of men now discerns the influence of his teachings. Every line written, every word uttered that led men to rest in a refuge of falsehood has been scattering seed; and now he beholds the harvest. Saith the Lord: “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! ... Behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings.” “With lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising him life.” Jeremiah 23:1, 2; Ezekiel 13:22.

Jeremiah 23:1-6

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 128, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, par. 12

Are we looking for our Lord to come in the clouds of heaven? Satan is working with intensity of effort to gather his forces in large numbers to resist Christ’s claims. “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture. Therefore, thus saith the Lord God of Israel against the pastures that feed My people, (claim to feed them): Ye have scattered My flock, and driven them away” [Jeremiah 23:1, 2], filling their minds with erroneous theories. This work has been done in the past, and at the present time there are men whom we dare not place in positions of responsibility, because they do not carry the work forward wisely. They place great confidence in their own judgment.

25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, par. 18

Christ gave His life to redeem all who will repent. “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely. And this is His name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” [Jeremiah 23:5, 6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 124, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 124, 1909, par. 12

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” [Jeremiah 23:1-6.]

Jeremiah 23:1-40

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 16a, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 16a, 1885, par. 39

It is a beautiful morning. We have no seasickness as yet. Last evening we enjoyed a beautiful sunset. The broad ocean was all that we could see surrounding us, and the sun went out of sight in the broad waters. We went into the dining room to attend services. Under the Episcopalian services, prayers were read, and chapters in the Old and New Testaments that were very appropriate for the occasion. The hymns sung were excellent in sentiment. The chapter read first was in Jeremiah. The second was in the New Testament in regard to the shipwreck of Paul. I wrote eight pages and prepared a reported article for the press. We were on deck most of the time.

Jeremiah 23:3-8

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 35—Approaching Doom

PK 426.1

The children of Judah were numbered among those of whom God had declared, “Ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.” Exodus 19:6. Never did Jeremiah in his ministry lose sight of the vital importance of heart holiness in the varied relationships of life, and especially in the service of the most high God. Plainly he foresaw the downfall of the kingdom and a scattering of the inhabitants of Judah among the nations; but with the eye of faith he looked beyond all this to the times of restoration. Ringing in his ears was the divine promise: “I will gather the remnant of My flock out of all countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds.... Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:3-6.

PK 427.1

Thus prophecies of oncoming judgment were mingled with promises of final and glorious deliverance. Those who should choose to make their peace with God and live holy lives amid the prevailing apostasy, would receive strength for every trial and be enabled to witness for Him with mighty power. And in the ages to come the deliverance wrought in their behalf would exceed in fame that wrought for the children of Israel at the time of the Exodus. The days were coming, the Lord declared through His prophet, when “they shall no more say, The Lord liveth, which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; but, The Lord liveth, which brought up and which led the seed of the house of Israel out of the north country, and from all countries whither I had driven them; and they shall dwell in their own land.” Verses 7, 8. Such were the wonderful prophecies uttered by Jeremiah during the closing years of the history of the kingdom of Judah, when the Babylonians were coming unto universal rule, and were even then bringing their besieging armies against the walls of Zion.

Jeremiah 23:5-6

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 22—Thessalonica

AA 223.3

Jeremiah also bore witness of the coming Redeemer as a Prince of the house of David: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” And again: “Thus saith the Lord: David shall never want a man to sit upon the throne of the house of Israel; neither shall the priests the Levites want a man before Me to offer burnt offerings, and to kindle meat offerings, and to do sacrifice continually.” Jeremiah 23:5, 6; 33:17, 18.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 22—A Revival and a Riot at Thessalonica

TT 119.2

6. Jeremiah also bore witness of the coming Redeemer: “The days are coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and He shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land... .And this is the name by which He will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’” Jeremiah 23:5, 6, RSV.

From Splendor to Shadow

The Faithful Youth Were Encouraged

SS 222.1

Never did Jeremiah lose sight of the importance of heart holiness in the service of God. He foresaw the scattering of Judah among the nations, but with faith he looked beyond to restoration. “The days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” Jeremiah 23:5, 6.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Branch, April 1

JNN 101.4

Jeremiah 23:6

Counsels for the Church

Chapter 52—Baptism

CCh 295.2

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Baptism

2TT 389.2

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 63—Jesus Acclaimed as Israel’s King

HLv 386.4

Jeremiah will tell you: The Branch of David, “the Lord our Righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:6.

Homeward Bound

Righteousness Is ...! March 16

HB 93.3

Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat, . . . without money and without price.” “Their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” (Isaiah 55:1; 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 30, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 30, 1889, par. 67

But grace does not come in to excuse the sinner in the continuance of sin. God’s grace does not detract from the law, but establishes the law as changeless in its character. Here “mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10. God looks upon His Son dying upon the cross and is satisfied, and Jesus is called “the Lord our Righteousness.” [Jeremiah 23:6.] Then let the sinner by faith appropriate the merits of the blood of a crucified Redeemer to his own case—“the Lord my righteousness.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 153, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 153, 1897, par. 2

The members of the church of Christ, are to be faithful workers in the great harvest field. They are to be diligently working, earnestly praying, making progress, and diffusing light amid the moral darkness of the world, for are not the angels of heaven imparting to them divine inspiration? They are never to think of, and much less to speak of failure in their work. They are to be filled with hope, knowing that they do not rely upon human ability, nor upon finite resources, but upon the promise of divine aid, the ministry of heavenly agencies, who are pledged to open the way before them. The promise is given them, “Righteousness shall go before them.” [Isaiah 58:8.] We, of ourselves, have no righteousness. We have only that righteousness which is imparted from Christ, the Fountain of righteousness. He is “the Lord our righteousness.” [Jeremiah 23:6.] The angels of God will break the way before us, preparing hearts for the gospel message.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 65, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 21

To the disciples Christ gave the commission, “Go; make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” [Matthew 28:19.] Churches are to be raised up. By the ordinance of baptism the converted souls are to be dedicated to God, who is known by the manifestation of His Name. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine Name, “The Lord our Righteousness.” [Jeremiah 23:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 52, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 52, 1900, par. 20

Those who have exalted views of Christ will have humble views of themselves. They will not dare to take themselves in their own hands. When you feel as you should feel, when your eyes are anointed with the heavenly anointing, you will see that the test of true religion is obedience to the will of God. When you depend entirely upon Christ as your personal Saviour, saying and acting the words, “The Lord our Righteousness” [Jeremiah 23:6], you will do God’s will from the heart. You will not disappoint your Saviour.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

King in Righteousness, September 17

JNN 275.2

Isaiah’s rapt portrayals of the Messiah’s glory were his study by day and by night—the Branch from the root of Jesse; a King to reign in righteousness, judging “with equity for the meek of the earth;” “a covert from the tempest ... the shadow of a great rock in a weary land;” Israel no longer to be termed “Forsaken,” nor her land “Desolate,” but to be called of the Lord, “My Delight,” and her land “Beulah” (Isaiah 11:4; 32:2; 62:4, margin). The heart of the lonely exile was filled with the glorious vision.

Evangelism

Baptism and Church Membership

Ev 307.1

The Sign of Entrance to the Kingdom—Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, “The Lord our righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:6.

Lift Him Up

The Ordinance of Baptism, October 15

LHU 302.3

Our Father Cares

Filled With His Righteousness, March 10

OFC 81.3

Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; ... without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.” Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Meaning of the Ordinance

6T 91.2

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 63—“Thy King Cometh”

DA 578.7

Jeremiah will tell you, The Branch of David, “the Lord our Righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:6.

The Faith I Live By

Filled With His Righteousness, April 13

FLB 109.3

Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; ... without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.” Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.

The Faith I Live By

Born of Water and the Spirit, May 19

FLB 145.4

Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, “The Lord our Righteousness.”Jeremiah 23:6 Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.62Testimonies for the Church 6:91.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”—Matthew 5:6.

MB 18.2

Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat, ... without money and without price.” “Their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” Isaiah 55:1; 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.

Jeremiah 23:11

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 36—The Last King of Judah

PK 449.2

Through Jeremiah the Lord had declared of the wicked men who presumptuously dared to stand before the people in His name: “Both prophet and priest are profane; yea, in My house have I found their wickedness.” Jeremiah 23:11. In the terrible arraignment of Judah as recorded in the closing narrative of the chronicler of Zedekiah’s reign, this charge of violating the sanctity of the temple was repeated. “Moreover,” the sacred writer declared, “all the chief of the priests, and the people, transgressed very much after all the abominations of the heathen; and polluted the house of the Lord which He had hallowed in Jerusalem.” 2 Chronicles 36:14.

From Splendor to Shadow

Ezekiel Shown Abominations in the Temple

SS 234.1

Through Jeremiah the Lord had declared: “Both prophet and priest are profane; yea, in My house have I found their wickedness.” Jeremiah 23:11. In the closing narrative of Zedekiah’s reign, this charge of violating the temple was repeated: “All the chief of the priests, and the people, transgressed very much after all the abominations of the heathen; and polluted the house of the Lord which He had hallowed in Jerusalem.” 2 Chronicles 36:14.

Jeremiah 23:16

Selected Messages Book 3

Chapter 49—Can All Have the Gift of Prophecy?

3SM 341.2

Jesus has raised his voice in warning: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15, 16). “Thus saith the Lord of hosts, hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord” (Jeremiah 23:16). “If any man shall say to you, Lo here is Christ, or lo, he is there, believe him not; for false Christs and false prophets shall arise, and shall shew signs and wonders to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed; behold, I have foretold you all things” (Mark 13:21-23).—Letter 6a, 1894.

Jeremiah 23:16-17

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3

Spiritual Gifts

3SG 21.3

3. False prophets speak smooth things, prophesy lies, and cry, Peace and safety, which has ever been pleasing to unconsecrated professors; hence the love of the peace and safety in the delusion of spiritualism. Jeremiah 14:14. “Then the Lord said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name. I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them. They prophesy unto you a false vision anddivination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart.” Chapter 23:16, 17. “Thus saith the Lord of hosts, hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you. They make you vain. They speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord. They say still unto them that despise me, the Lord hath said, ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, no evil shall come upon you.” Chapter 8:10, 11. “For every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to covetousness. From the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace, when there is no peace.”

Jeremiah 23:16-21

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 6a, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 6a, 1894, par. 1

As the report has been quite widely circulated that Sister White has endorsed what has been written and circulated as revelations from God to Miss Anna Phillips, I feel that it is my duty to speak. I have not endorsed these productions. Warnings have been given to me in reference to them, that they will most certainly mislead. Woven in them will be statements that will lead to extremes and to wrong actions on the part of those who accept them. It would be well for our brethren and sisters to move more cautiously, in accordance with the light given them. They should test these so-called visions before accepting them and presenting them in connection with the light God has given me. I see that our people are in danger of making grave blunders and premature movements. God says of these prophets that are springing up, “I have not sent them, and yet they ran. Believe them not.” [See Jeremiah 23:21.]

9LtMs, Lt 6a, 1894, par. 9

These ideas in relation to prophesying, I do not hesitate to say, might better never have been expressed. Such statements prepare the way for a state of things that Satan will surely take advantage of to bring in spurious exercises. There is danger, not only that unbalanced minds will be led into fanaticism, but that designing persons will take advantage of this excitement to further their own selfish purposes. Jesus has raised His voice in warning: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits.” [Matthew 7:15, 16.] “Thus saith the Lord of hosts, hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you; they make you vain; they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord.” [Jeremiah 23:16.] “If any man shall say to you, Lo here is Christ, or lo, he is there, believe him not; for false christs and false prophets shall arise, and shall show signs and wonders to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed; behold, I have foretold you all things.” [Mark 13:21-23.]

Jeremiah 23:16-24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 36, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, par. 2

“Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you; they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord. They say still unto them that despise me, The Lord hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you. For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word, and heard it? Behold, a whirlwind of the Lord is gone forth in fury, even a grievous whirlwind: it shall fall grievously upon the head of the wicked. The anger of the Lord shall not return, until he have executed, until he have performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly. I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran; I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied. But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings. Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:16-24.

Jeremiah 23:18-24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 127, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 127, 1897, par. 14

The Lord calls upon us. Shall we hear what He says? “For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord, and hath perceived and heard His word? who hath marked his word, and heard it? ... But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil ways, and from the evil of their doings. Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places, that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 23:18, 22-24.] [Read] Psalm 139.

Jeremiah 23:21

Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]

MR No. 81—God’s Rebuke to Laodicea

1MR 358.3

I do not doubt your sincerity or honesty. I have written long letters at different times to those who were accusing the church of Seventh-day Adventists of being Babylon, that they were not handling the truth. You think individuals have prejudiced my mind. If I am in this state, I am not fitted to be entrusted with the work of God. But this matter has been brought before my mind in other cases where individuals have claimed to have messages for the Seventh-day Adventist church, of a similar character, and the word has been given me, “Believe them not” (Jeremiah 12:6). “I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran” (Jeremiah 23:21).

Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]

MR No. 1236—Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by John Bell—Part I

17MR 4.2

The truths that have been unfolding in their order, as we have advanced along the line of prophecy revealed in the Word of God, are truth, sacred, eternal truth today. Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us. Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth,” “I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” (See Jeremiah 23:21.)

Selected Messages Book 2

A Mixture of Truth and Error

2SM 103.1

The burden of the warning now to come to the people of God, nigh and afar off, is the third angel’s message. And those who are seeking to understand this message will not be led by the Lord to make an application of the Word that will undermine the foundation and remove the pillars of the faith that has made Seventh-day Adventists what they are today. The truths that have been unfolding in their order, as we have advanced along the line of prophecy revealed in the Word of God, are truth, sacred, eternal truth today. Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us. Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures, that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth,” “I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” (See Jeremiah 23:21.).

Ye Shall Receive Power

To Establish Bible Truth, August 13

YRP 234.3

Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth,” “I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran” (see Jeremiah 23:21.)

Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)

Established by the Lord God of Heaven

1BIO 149.1

Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures, that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth,” “I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” (See Jeremiah 23:21.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 16, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 16, 1893, par. 3

I do not question your sincerity or honesty. I have written long letters at different times to those who were accusing the church of Seventh-day Adventists of being Babylon, that they were not handling the truth. You think individuals have prejudiced my mind. If I am in this state, I am not fitted to be entrusted with the work of God. But as this matter has been brought before my mind in other cases where individuals have claimed to have messages for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, of a similar character, and the word has been given me, “Believe them not.” “I have not sent them, yet they ran.” [Jeremiah 12:6; 23:21.]

8LtMs, Lt 16, 1893, par. 6

One Garmire advocated and published a message in regard to the loud cry of the third angel; he accused the church in a similar manner to what you are now doing. He said the leaders in the church would all fall through self-exaltation, and another class of humble men would come to the front, who would do wonderful things. This man had daughters who claimed to have visions. This delusion was opened to me. This Garmire is an intelligent man, of an acceptable address, and self-denying and full of zeal and earnestness, and carrying an appearance of consecration and devotion. But the word of God came from God to me, “Believe them not, I have not sent them.” [Jeremiah 12:6; 23:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 31, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, par. 10

Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied Scriptures that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth.” “I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” [See Luke 21:8; Jeremiah 23:21.]

Jeremiah 23:23

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 17, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, par. 28

The Lord God has given abundant evidence of His willingness to carry our burdens. As we lift His burdens, He lifts you and the burdens also. He invites all, who labor and are heavy laden, “Come unto me.” You are not told that you just go ’round the world to Battle Creek to tell your troubles and unload your burdens to your fellow men. “Lo, I am with you alway,” Christ says, “even till the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] “I am a God at hand, and not afar off.” [See Jeremiah 23:23.]

Jeremiah 23:23-24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 18, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 18, 1891, par. 15

“Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord?” [Jeremiah 23:23, 24.] The Lord is looking upon every individual; He is omnipresent. His eye reads the heart. When Eliab, the son of Jesse, passed before Samuel, the prophet said, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him. But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” [1 Samuel 16:6, 7.]

Jeremiah 23:24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 22, 1872

2LtMs, Lt 22, 1872, par. 25

I have not written nor told all I know of Mrs. Harris, neither shall I at present. I have felt that she should never say that she was condemned and disfellowshipped upon the testimonies alone. But facts have been brought forth that would be of sufficient weight to separate her from the fellowship of the church if not half as strong. God seeth not as man seeth; He judgeth not by appearance. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways,” saith God, “higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8. “Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:24.

Jeremiah 23:28

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 2—“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”

COL 40.3

Instead of discussing erroneous theories, or seeking to combat the opponents of the gospel, follow the example of Christ. Let fresh truths from God’s treasure house flash into life. “Preach the word.” “Sow beside all waters.” “Be instant in season, out of season.” “He that hath My word, let him speak My word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord.” “Every word of God is pure.... Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” 2 Timothy 4:2; Isaiah 32:20; Jeremiah 23:28; Proverbs 30:5, 6.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Personal Experience Needed By Workers

3TT 153.3

The words of Moses possess deep meaning. “Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which He commanded them not. And there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died before the Lord. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the Lord spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh Me, and before all the people I will be glorified.” Leviticus 10:1-3. This has a lesson for all who are handling the matter that goes forth from our publishing institutions. Sacred things are not to be mingled with the common. The papers that have so wide a circulation should contain more precious instruction than appears in the ordinary publications of the day. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” Jeremiah 23:28. We want pure wheat, thoroughly winnowed.

Testimony for the Church — No. 13

Sketch of Experience

T13 45.2

“‘The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream.’ Jeremiah 23:28.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 6, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 6, 1892, par. 25

To the worldly-wise, those who love and obey God may seem humble and common place. They are constantly tested and proved. Trials and disappointments and infirmities encompass them. But the Lord God of Israel, who looks to the heart, and reads what is therein, inquires, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] “It doth not yet appear what we shall be, but when he shall appear we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 79, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 79, 1893, par. 15

Elder Starr preached in the Theater Royal in the evening with much freedom on the inspiration of the Scriptures. Oh that the words spoken may touch some hearts, and may the Lord open the darkened chambers of the mind to understand and receive the wheat and discard the chaff! Error and falsehood are presented—fables for the people to feed upon. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 82, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 82, 1894, par. 15

There is no need of entering into controversy with the poor souls who think they are doing God’s service when they are believing fables. When our young ministers hurt themselves and bring reproach upon God’s cause by placing solemn, sacred truth on a level with fables, let them be advised to become converted by closely studying the Word with men of experience, who for years have understood the truth. Let them turn from romance, from the fanciful interpretations which have no foundation in God’s Word. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” Jeremiah 23:28.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 53, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 53, 1894, par. 36

You preach Christ, but you do not realize your dependence upon the divine influence to make you Christlike. If every man will hide in Christ, then Christ will appear as all-sufficient. All do not give due consideration to the fact that the Holy Spirit is to take possession of hearts and mold their characters. Self-sufficient workers will not have Christ with them. The inventive mind of man is likely to form speculative opinions of every variety, but mere opinions are of little weight. “What is the chaff to the wheat,” said our Counselor. [Jeremiah 23:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 22, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 22, 1895, par. 28

The greatest wisdom, and that most essential, is the knowledge of God. Self sinks into insignificance as it contemplates God and Jesus Christ, whom He hath sent. The Bible must be made the foundation for all study. Individually we must learn from this lesson book which God has given us, the condition of the salvation of our souls, for it is the only book that tells us what we must do in order to be saved. Not only this, but from it strength may be received for the intellect. The many books which education is thought to embrace, are misleading, a deception and a delusion. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 131, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 131, 1899, par. 2

The canvassers are not obtaining that healthful experience in their work which they should have. In their handling of the books they are being educated to present before the public the beautiful cover and many illustrations rather than the points of truth contained in the books. In doing this they are patterning after the world, and they fail to make God their dependence and trust. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” God asks. [Jeremiah 23:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 89, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 89, 1899, par. 7

This means something to all who are handling the matter that goes forth from our institutions to the world. The papers that have so wide a circulation, and that have been so highly exalted, should contain more precious instruction than appears in the common publications of the day. The true higher education is not to be gained by dealing with the lives and sentiments of the men who know not the Word of the Lord. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] We want more pure wheat thoroughly winnowed from all chaff.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 80, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 80, 1899, par. 8

Letters have come to me with inquiries regarding the publication of books, asking whether there was not danger of placing before the people many things which do not relate to the truths so important to us as a people. I have been instructed that the common stories put into book form are not essential to our well-being. The world is flooded with this class of literature, and the fact that such books find a ready sale is by no means evidence that they are the books which should be circulated. The passion for stories is bringing into existence many thousands of worthless books, which are as hay, wood, and stubble. These books are written by those whose minds have been educated to run in a channel of romance. Everything that the imaginative mind can think of is woven into the book, and presented to the world as mental food. But very often it has no food value. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] We do not need novels, for we are dealing with the stern realities of life.

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Chapter 12—Counsels to Editors

CW 90.1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 207, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 207, 1899, par. 9

There is no need of entering into controversy with the poor souls who think they are doing God’s service when they are believing the devil’s fables. When our young ministers hurt themselves and bring reproach upon God’s cause by placing solemn, sacred truth on a level with fables, let them be advised to become converted by closely studying the Word with men of experience, who for years have understood the truth. Let them turn from romance, from the fanciful interpretations which have no foundation in God’s Word. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] We need, in this age of error, of day-dreaming and reverie, to learn the first principles of the doctrine of Christ. Let us strive to be able to say with the apostle, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:16.] The Lord calls upon us to follow high and noble principles.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 61, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 61, 1900, par. 6

Those who know not the voice of God, those who have been unwilling to receive the true testimonies from the Lord, may listen to the voice of a stranger, and receive from a human agent what is supposed to be truth. But, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] The people of God should know that they are on trial for eternal life, and that they must accept no delusive sentiments. May God save them from Satan’s snares.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 98, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 98, 1901, par. 7

God desires those who are enlightened in regard to the teachings of His Word to go forth to declare the principles of true reform. They will have to meet and combat the trivial theories which men pick up and advance. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] The great truths of the Word of God are to be made prominent. His glory is to be kept in view. His grand and saving tests are to be advanced.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 101, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 37

God asks, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] I will turn and overturn until the changes are made that will bring correct principles into the publishing houses.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 82, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 82, 1901, par. 5

I would say to my brethren and sisters, Keep close to the instruction found in the Word of God. Dwell upon the rich truths of the Scriptures. Thus only can you become one in Christ. You have no time to engage in controversy regarding the killing of insects. Jesus has not placed this burden upon you. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] The attributes of Christ are to be studied and earnestly sought for, that every believer may be complete in him, revealing the beauty of His character. We have no time for empty, foolish talk. Let us dwell upon the solemn, sacred truths for this time. The character is built up from the food given to the mind. Let us, then, feed upon Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 154, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 154, 1903, par. 13

“What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] These words have been repeatedly spoken to me by my Instructor recently, in regard to the medical missionary work now being carried on by some. This is why I say, The medical missionary work is sick and in need of conversion. Many of those engaged in this work have lost their power with God, and I desire that we shall all understand this.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 140, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 140, 1903, par. 52

The words that Christ uttered were not mere sentiment or opinion. They were pure, unadulterated truth. Suppositions and fables never passed His lips. False theories He met as dangerous evils. “No lie is of the truth,” He declared. [1 John 2:21.] He bore a message that unfolded truth of the highest order. “What is the chaff to the wheat,” He said when He heard the words of prevarication and deception. [Jeremiah 23:28.] Science was not the theme upon which Christ dwelt. But gospel truth—the truth which had been framed from eternity—entered into His every purpose. His life was one of pure, holy, disinterested benevolence—a life unmarred by the slightest taint of selfishness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 301, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 301, 1903, par. 4

These words were spoken with great force, in a loud voice, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] The churches need now the winnowing process, the cleansing of the soul temple from all these pleasant pictures Satan has been devising, ready to frame in the imagination.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 23, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, par. 10

A Bible institute should be held in some place where medical missionary workers and ministers may meet together to study the Scriptures. Let the Bible explain its own statements. Accept it just as it reads, without twisting the words to suit human ideas. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.]

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

During the Next Year and a Half

15MR 105.5

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

MR No. 163—Fanaticism and Side Issues

3MR 29.3

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 21—Fanciful or Speculative Teachings

1SM 171.1

I would say to my brethren and sisters, Keep close to the instruction found in the Word of God. Dwell upon the rich truths of the Scriptures. Thus only can you become one in Christ. You have no time to engage in controversy regarding the killing of insects. Jesus has not placed this burden upon you. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” (Jeremiah 23:28). These side issues which arise are as hay, wood, and stubble compared with the truth for these last days. Those who leave the great truths of God’s Word to speak of such matters are not preaching the gospel. They are dealing with the idle sophistry which the enemy brings forward to divert minds from the truths that concern their eternal welfare. They have no word from Christ to vindicate their suppositions.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1

Chapter 104—Conflicts and Victory

1T 602.2

“‘The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream.’ Jeremiah 23:28.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Personal Experience Needed by Workers

7T 153.1

This Day With God

Foolish Fanaticisms, July 15

TDG 205.6

I would say to my brethren and sisters, “Keep close to the instruction found in the Word of God. Dwell upon the rich truths of the Scriptures. Thus only can you become one in Christ. You have no time to engage in controversy regarding the killing of insects. Jesus has not placed this burden upon you. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” (Jeremiah 23:28). The attributes of Christ are to be studied and earnestly sought for, that every believer may be complete in Him, revealing the beauty of His character. We have no time for empty, foolish talk. Let us dwell upon the solemn, sacred truths for this time....

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 28—Training Literature Evangelists to Win Souls

PM 303.3

Show Points of Truth, Not Only Illustrations—The canvassers are not obtaining that healthful experience in their work which they should have. In their handling of the books they are being educated to present before the public the beautiful cover and many illustrations rather than the points of truth contained in the books. In doing this they are patterning after the world, and they fail to make God their dependence and trust. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” God asks (Jeremiah 23:28).—Manuscript 131, 1899.

Jeremiah 23:29

This Day With God

Help Is Promised, January 15

TDG 23.1

Is not my word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? Jeremiah 23:29.