EGW WritingsJohn 10

From Eternity Past

We Have a Faithful Shepherd

EP 124.3

The shepherd’s life of care-taking and compassion for the helpless creatures illustrates some precious truths of the gospel. Christ is compared to a shepherd. He saw His sheep doomed to perish in the dark ways of sin. To save these wandering ones He left the honors and glories of His Father’s house. He says, “I Will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick.” I will “save My flock, and they shall no more be a prey.” “Neither shall the beast of the land devour them.” Ezekiel 34:16, 22, 28. His voice is heard calling them to His fold, “a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.” Isaiah 4:6. He strengthens the weak, relieves the suffering, gathers the lambs in His arms, and carries them in His bosom. His sheep love Him. “And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers.” See John 10:1-15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 23, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 3

“I am come.” [John 10:10.] These were important words indeed. The work Christ came to do was to heal. He was a missionary in every sense of the word. In His parable of the good Shepherd, He showed the relation in which He stands to the human family:

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 4

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth: and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.” [Verses 1-5.]

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 10

Said Christ, “He that entereth not in by the door of the sheep fold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.” [John 10:1.] “Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me, if any man enter in he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: but I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 11

“The hireling fleeth because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep: and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall bear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.” [Verses 7-18.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 52—The Divine Shepherd

DA 476.1

“I am the Good Shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” “I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep.”

DA 476.2

Again Jesus found access to the minds of His hearers by the pathway of their familiar associations. He had likened the Spirit’s influence to the cool, refreshing water. He had represented Himself as the light, the source of life and gladness to nature and to man. Now in a beautiful pastoral picture He represents His relation to those that believe on Him. No picture was more familiar to His hearers than this, and Christ’s words linked it forever with Himself. Never could the disciples look on the shepherds tending their flocks without recalling the Saviour’s lesson. They would see Christ in each faithful shepherd. They would see themselves in each helpless and dependent flock.

DA 476.3

This figure the prophet Isaiah had applied to the Messiah’s mission, in the comforting words, “O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! ... He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:9-11. David had sung, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1. And the Holy Spirit through Ezekiel had declared: “I will set up one Shepherd over them, and He shall feed them.” “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick.” “And I will make with them a covenant of peace.” “And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen; ... but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid.” Ezekiel 34:23, 16, 25, 28.

DA 477.1

Christ applied these prophecies to Himself, and He showed the contrast between His own character and that of the leaders in Israel. The Pharisees had just driven one from the fold, because he dared to bear witness to the power of Christ. They had cut off a soul whom the True Shepherd was drawing to Himself. In this they had shown themselves ignorant of the work committed to them, and unworthy of their trust as shepherds of the flock. Jesus now set before them the contrast between them and the Good Shepherd, and He pointed to Himself as the real keeper of the Lord’s flock. Before doing this, however, He speaks of Himself under another figure.

DA 477.2

He said, “He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.” The Pharisees did not discern that these words were spoken against them. When they reasoned in their hearts as to the meaning, Jesus told them plainly, “I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

DA 477.3

Christ is the door to the fold of God. Through this door all His children, from the earliest times, have found entrance. In Jesus, as shown in types, as shadowed in symbols, as manifested in the revelation of the prophets, as unveiled in the lessons given to His disciples, and in the miracles wrought for the sons of men, they have beheld “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29), and through Him they are brought within the fold of His grace. Many have come presenting other objects for the faith of the world; ceremonies and systems have been devised by which men hope to receive justification and peace with God, and thus find entrance to His fold. But the only door is Christ, and all who have interposed something to take the place of Christ, all who have tried to enter the fold in some other way, are thieves and robbers.

DA 478.1

The Pharisees had not entered by the door. They had climbed into the fold by another way than Christ, and they were not fulfilling the work of the true shepherd. The priests and rulers, the scribes and Pharisees, destroyed the living pastures, and defiled the wellsprings of the water of life. Faithfully do the words of inspiration describe those false shepherds: “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; ... but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.” Ezekiel 34:4.

DA 478.2

In all ages, philosophers and teachers have been presenting to the world theories by which to satisfy the soul’s need. Every heathen nation has had its great teachers and religious systems offering some other means of redemption than Christ, turning the eyes of men away from the Father’s face, and filling their hearts with fear of Him who has given them only blessing. The trend of their work is to rob God of that which is His own, both by creation and by redemption. And these false teachers rob man as well. Millions of human beings are bound down under false religions, in the bondage of slavish fear, of stolid indifference, toiling like beasts of burden, bereft of hope or joy or aspiration here, and with only a dull fear of the hereafter. It is the gospel of the grace of God alone that can uplift the soul. The contemplation of the love of God manifested in His Son will stir the heart and arouse the powers of the soul as nothing else can. Christ came that He might re-create the image of God in man; and whoever turns men away from Christ is turning them away from the source of true development; he is defrauding them of the hope and purpose and glory of life. He is a thief and a robber.

DA 478.3

“He that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.” Christ is both the door and the shepherd. He enters in by Himself. It is through His own sacrifice that He becomes the shepherd of the sheep. “To Him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear His voice: and He calleth His own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice.”

DA 478.4

Of all creatures the sheep is one of the most timid and helpless, and in the East the shepherd’s care for his flock is untiring and incessant. Anciently as now there was little security outside of the walled towns. Marauders from the roving border tribes, or beasts of prey from their hiding places in the rocks, lay in wait to plunder the flocks. The shepherd watched his charge, knowing that it was at the peril of his own life. Jacob, who kept the flocks of Laban in the pasture grounds of Haran, describing his own unwearied labor, said, “In the day the drought consumed me, and the frost by night; and my sleep departed from mine eyes.” Genesis 31:40. And it was while guarding his father’s sheep that the boy David, single-handed, encountered the lion and the bear, and rescued from their teeth the stolen lamb.

DA 479.1

As the shepherd leads his flock over the rocky hills, through forest and wild ravines, to grassy nooks by the riverside; as he watches them on the mountains through the lonely night, shielding from robbers, caring tenderly for the sickly and feeble, his life comes to be one with theirs. A strong and tender attachment unites him to the objects of his care. However large the flock, the shepherd knows every sheep. Every one has its name, and responds to the name at the shepherd’s call.

DA 479.2

As an earthly shepherd knows his sheep, so does the divine Shepherd know His flock that are scattered throughout the world. “Ye My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord God.” Jesus says, “I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine.” “I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands.” Ezekiel 34:31; Isaiah 43:1; 49:16.

DA 479.3

Jesus knows us individually, and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He knows us all by name. He knows the very house in which we live, the name of each occupant. He has at times given directions to His servants to go to a certain street in a certain city, to such a house, to find one of His sheep.

DA 480.1

Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he were the only one for whom the Saviour died. The distress of every one touches His heart. The cry for aid reaches His ear. He came to draw all men unto Himself. He bids them, “Follow Me,” and His Spirit moves upon their hearts to draw them to come to Him. Many refuse to be drawn. Jesus knows who they are. He also knows who gladly hear His call, and are ready to come under His pastoral care. He says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” He cares for each one as if there were not another on the face of the earth.

DA 480.2

“He calleth His own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.... And the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice.” The Eastern shepherd does not drive his sheep. He depends not upon force or fear; but going before, he calls them. They know his voice, and obey the call. So does the Saviour-Shepherd with His sheep. The Scripture says, “Thou leddest Thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.” Through the prophet, Jesus declares, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.” He compels none to follow Him. “I drew them,” He says, “with cords of a man, with bands of love.” Psalm 77:20; Jeremiah 31:3; Hosea 11:4.

DA 480.3

It is not the fear of punishment, or the hope of everlasting reward, that leads the disciples of Christ to follow Him. They behold the Saviour’s matchless love, revealed throughout His pilgrimage on earth, from the manger of Bethlehem to Calvary’s cross, and the sight of Him attracts, it softens and subdues the soul. Love awakens in the heart of the beholders. They hear His voice, and they follow Him.

DA 480.4

As the shepherd goes before his sheep, himself first encountering the perils of the way, so does Jesus with His people. “When He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them.” The way to heaven is consecrated by the Saviour’s footprints. The path may be steep and rugged, but Jesus has traveled that way; His feet have pressed down the cruel thorns, to make the pathway easier for us. Every burden that we are called to bear He Himself has borne.

DA 480.5

Though now He has ascended to the presence of God, and shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature. Today the same tender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity. Today the hand that was pierced is reached forth to bless more abundantly His people that are in the world. “And they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” The soul that has given himself to Christ is more precious in His sight than the whole world. The Saviour would have passed through the agony of Calvary that one might be saved in His kingdom. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast.

DA 483.1

Through all our trials we have a never-failing Helper. He does not leave us alone to struggle with temptation, to battle with evil, and be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow. Though now He is hidden from mortal sight, the ear of faith can hear His voice saying, Fear not; I am with you. “I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore.” Revelation 1:18. I have endured your sorrows, experienced your struggles, encountered your temptations. I know your tears; I also have wept. The griefs that lie too deep to be breathed into any human ear, I know. Think not that you are desolate and forsaken. Though your pain touch no responsive chord in any heart on earth, look unto Me, and live. “The mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.” Isaiah 54:10.

DA 483.2

However much a shepherd may love his sheep, he loves his sons and daughters more. Jesus is not only our shepherd; He is our “everlasting Father.” And He says, “I know Mine own, and Mine own know Me, even as the Father knoweth Me, and I know the Father.” John 10:14, 15, R. V. What a statement is this!—the only-begotten Son, He who is in the bosom of the Father, He whom God has declared to be “the Man that is My fellow” (Zechariah 13:7),—the communion between Him and the eternal God is taken to represent the communion between Christ and His children on the earth!

DA 483.3

Because we are the gift of His Father, and the reward of His work, Jesus loves us. He loves us as His children. Reader, He loves you. Heaven itself can bestow nothing greater, nothing better. Therefore trust.

DA 483.4

Jesus thought upon the souls all over the earth who were misled by false shepherds. Those whom He longed to gather as the sheep of His pasture were scattered among wolves, and He said, “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and they shall become one flock, one shepherd.” John 10:16, R. V.

DA 483.5

“Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again.” That is, My Father has so loved you, that He even loves Me more for giving My life to redeem you. In becoming your substitute and surety, by surrendering My life, by taking your liabilities, your transgressions, I am endeared to My Father.

DA 484.1

“I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” While as a member of the human family He was mortal, as God He was the fountain of life for the world. He could have withstood the advances of death, and refused to come under its dominion; but voluntarily He laid down His life, that He might bring life and immortality to light. He bore the sin of the world, endured its curse, yielded up His life as a sacrifice, that men might not eternally die. “Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows.... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:4-6.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 52—The Divine Shepherd

HLv 323.1

“I am the Good Shepherd ... and I lay down My life for the sheep.” John 10:11, 15.

HLv 323.2

Jesus found access to His hearers by the pathway of their familiar associations. In a beautiful pastoral picture He represents His relation to those that believe on Him. No picture was more familiar to His hearers than this. Recalling the Saviour’s lesson, the disciples would see Christ in each faithful shepherd, themselves in each helpless, dependent flock.

HLv 323.3

The Pharisees had just driven one from the fold because he dared to bear witness to the power of Christ. They had cut off a soul whom the True Shepherd was drawing to Himself. In this they had shown themselves unworthy of their trust as shepherds of the flock. Now Jesus pointed to Himself as the real keeper of the Lord’s flock.

HLv 323.4

“He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.” When the Pharisees reasoned in their hearts as to the meaning, Jesus told them plainly, “I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

HLv 323.5

Christ is the door to the fold of God. Through this door all His children from earliest times have found entrance. Shadowed in symbols, manifest in the revelation of the prophets, unveiled in the lessons given to His disciples and in miracles, they have beheld “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. Ceremonies and systems have been devised by which men hope to receive justification and peace with God. But all who interpose something to take the place of Christ, to enter the fold in some other way, are thieves and robbers.

HLv 324.1

The priests and rulers, the scribes and Pharisees, destroyed the living pastures and defiled the wellsprings of the water of life. Inspiration describes these false shepherds: “The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed, the crippled you have not bound up, the strayed you have not brought back, the lost you have not sought, and with force and harshness you have ruled them.” Ezekiel 34:4, RSV.

HLv 324.2

Every heathen nation has had its great teachers and religious systems offering some other means of redemption than Christ, turning the eyes away from the Father’s face, and filling men’s hearts with fear. Millions are bound down under false religions, bereft of hope or joy here, and with only a dull fear of the hereafter. The gospel of the grace of God alone can uplift the soul. The love of God manifested in His Son will stir the heart and arouse the powers of the soul as nothing else can. Whoever turns men away from Christ is turning them away from the source of true development, defrauding them of the hope and glory of life. He is a thief and a robber.

HLv 324.3

In the East the shepherd’s care for his flock was untiring and incessant. Marauders or beasts of prey lay in wait to plunder the flocks. The shepherd watched his charge at the peril of his own life. Jacob, who kept the flocks of Laban, said, “By day the heat consumed me, and the cold by night, and my sleep fled from my eyes.” Genesis 31:40, RSV. While guarding his father’s sheep, the boy David, singlehanded, rescued the stolen lamb from the lion and the bear.

HLv 325.1

A strong and tender attachment unites the shepherd to the objects of his care. Every sheep has its name and responds at the shepherd’s call. So does the divine Shepherd know His flock that are scattered throughout the world. Jesus says, “I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine.” Isaiah 43:1. Jesus knows us individually and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He knows the very house in which we live. He has at times given directions to His servants to go to a certain street in a certain city, to such a house, to find one of His sheep.

HLv 325.2

Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he were the only one for whom the Saviour died. The distress of every one touches His heart. He came to draw all men unto Himself. He knows who gladly hear His call, and are ready to come under His pastoral care. He says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

HLv 325.3

The Eastern shepherd does not drive his sheep. He depends not upon force or fear; but going before, he calls them. So does the Saviour-Shepherd with His sheep. He declares, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3.

HLv 325.4

It is not fear of punishment or hope of everlasting reward that leads the disciples of Christ to follow Him. They behold the Saviour’s matchless love revealed from the manger of Bethlehem to Calvary’s cross, and the sight of Him attracts, softens, and subdues the soul. Love awakens in the heart. They hear His voice, and they follow Him.

HLv 325.5

The shepherd goes before his sheep, himself first encountering the perils. So does Jesus with His people. The way to heaven is consecrated by the Saviour’s footprints.

HLv 326.1

Though now He shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassion. Today the hand that was pierced is reached forth to bless His people in the world. “And they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” The soul that has given himself to Christ is more precious in His sight than the whole world. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast.

HLv 326.2

Our never-failing Helper does not leave us alone to struggle with temptation and be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow. Though now He is hidden from mortal sight, the ear of faith can hear His voice saying, Fear not; I am with you. I have endured your sorrows, experienced your struggles, encountered your temptations. I know your tears; I also have wept. The griefs that lie too deep to be breathed into any human ear, I know. You are not forsaken. Though your pain touch no responsive cord in any heart on earth, look to Me and live. See Isaiah 54:10.

HLv 326.3

Because we are the gift of His Father and the reward of His work, Jesus loves us as His children. He loves you. Heaven itself can bestow nothing greater, nothing better. Therefore trust.

HLv 326.4

Jesus thought about the souls all over the earth who were misled by false shepherds, scattered among wolves, and He said, “I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd.” RSV.

HLv 326.5

“Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again... . I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” As a member of the human family Jesus was mortal; as God He was the fountain of life for the world. He could have withstood the advances of death, but voluntarily He laid down His life that He might bring life and immortality to light. “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:5, 6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 50, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, par. 6

In the tenth chapter of John we read: “I am the good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” [Verses 14-16.]

Lift Him Up

The Shepherd Calls His Sheep by Name, July 27

LHU 222.1

He that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.... The sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. John 10:2, 3.

Christian Education

Chapter 19—To Teachers

CE 158.1

O, I so much wish that the Lord of heaven would open many eyes that are now blind, that they might see themselves as God sees them, and give to them a sense of the work to be done in the fields of labor. But I have no hope that all the appeals I make will avail, unless the Lord speaks to the soul and writes his requirements upon the tablets of the heart. Cannot every living human agent have a high and elevated sense of what it means to have a large and important field of home missionary work appointed to him, without the necessity of going to far-off lands? And while some must proclaim the message of mercy to them that are afar off, there are many who have to proclaim the message to those who are nigh. Our schools are to be educating schools to qualify youth to become missionaries both by precept and example. Let the one who is acting in the capacity of teacher ever bear in mind that these children and youth are the purchase of the blood of the Son of God. They must be led to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. The name of each separate believer is graven on the palms of his hands. The Chief Shepherd is looking down from the heavenly sanctuary upon the sheep of his pasture. “He calleth his own sheep by name and leadeth them out.” [John 10:3.] “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” [1 John 2:1.] O precious, blessed truth! He does not treat one case with indifference.

The Bible Echo

December 9, 1901

BEcho December 9, 1901, par. 6

The name of each separate believer is graven on the palms of His hands. The Chief Shepherd is looking down upon the sheep of His pasture. John 10:3; 1 John 2:1. O precious, blessed truth! He does not treat one case with indifference.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 34, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 34, 1893, par. 53

Our schools are to be educating schools to qualify youth to become missionaries both by precept and example. Let the one who is acting in the capacity of teacher ever bear in mind that these children and youth are the purchase of the blood of the Son of God. They must be led to believe in God as their personal Saviour. The name of each separate believer is graven on the palms of His hands. The Chief Shepherd is looking down from the heavenly sanctuary upon the sheep of His pasture. “He calleth His own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.” [John 10:3.] “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” [1 John 2:1.] Oh precious, blessed truth! He does not treat one case with indifference.

Lift Him Up

The Shepherd Leads the Way, July 9

LHU 204.1

When he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. John 10:4.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 3, 1890

2SAT 78.3

God’s people are tempted and tried because they cannot see the spirit of self-sacrifice and consecration to God in all who manage important interests, and many act as though Jesus were buried in Joseph’s new tomb and a great stone rolled before the door. I wish to proclaim with voice and pen, Jesus has risen; He has risen; He is a living Saviour, the head of the church. He is the Good Shepherd. “The sheep follow Him: for they know His voice. And a stranger will they not follow” [John 10:4].

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Good Shepherd, April 23

JNN 123.1

“And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”—John 10:4

Living by Principle

Amusements

PH048 20.3

John 10:4, 5: And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 3, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 3, 1890, par. 29

God’s people are tempted and tried because they cannot see the spirit of self-sacrifice and consecration to God in all who manage important interests. Many act as though Jesus were buried in Joseph’s new tomb and a great stone were rolled before the door. I wish to proclaim with voice and pen, Jesus has risen, He has risen, He is a living Saviour, the Head of the church. He is the Good Shepherd. “The sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow.” [John 10:4, 5.] When things become entangled and cannot be easily adjusted, we are not to lose heart and courage and faith, and talk doubts and unbelief. Discouragement will spread and become as a deadly malady.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 63, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 63, 1893, par. 1

I feel deeply interested in the letter you have sent, and I am glad that you have written me so fully that I can reply in as full a manner. I feel the tenderest interest in your case. Your danger has been laid open before me. I know that you do not desire to work injury to the precious cause of present truth. Your only safety will consist in being led entirely by the heavenly Shepherd, who says, “The sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him, for they know not the voice of a stranger.” [John 10:4, 5.]

Homeward Bound

The Good Shepherd, February 17

HB 64.1

I am the good shepherd.—John 10:11.

HB 64.2

Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he or she were the only one for whom the Saviour died. The distress of every one touches His heart. The cry for aid reaches His ear. He came to draw all unto Himself. He bids them, “Follow Me,” and His Spirit moves upon their hearts to draw them to come to Him. Many refuse to be drawn. Jesus knows who they are. He also knows who gladly hear His call, and are ready to come under His pastoral care. He says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27.) He cares for each one as if there were not another on the face of the earth. . . .

HB 64.4

As the shepherd goes before his sheep, himself first encountering the perils of the way, so does Jesus with His people. “When He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them.” (John 10:4.) The way to heaven is consecrated by the Saviour’s footprints. The path may be steep and rugged, but Jesus has traveled that way; His feet have pressed down the cruel thorns, to make the pathway easier for us. Every burden that we are called to bear He Himself has borne.

HB 64.5

Though now He has ascended to the presence of God, and shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature. Today the same tender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity. Today the hand that was pierced is reached forth to bless more abundantly His people that are in the world. “And they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” (John 10:28.) The soul that has given himself to Christ is more precious in His sight than the whole world. The Saviour would have passed through the agony of Calvary that one might be saved in His kingdom. He will never abandon one for whom He has died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast.—The Desire of Ages, 480-483.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 17—Jacob’s Flight and Exile

PP 190.3

The shepherd’s life of diligence and care-taking, and his tender compassion for the helpless creatures entrusted to his charge, have been employed by the inspired writers to illustrate some of the most precious truths of the gospel. Christ, in His relation to His people, is compared to a shepherd. After the Fall He saw His sheep doomed to perish in the dark ways of sin. To save these wandering ones He left the honors and glories of His Father’s house. He says, “I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick.” I will “save My flock, and they shall no more be a prey.” “Neither shall the beast of the land devour them.” Ezekiel 34:16, 22, 28. His voice is heard calling them to His fold, “a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.” Isaiah 4:6. His care for the flock is unwearied. He strengthens the weak, relieves the suffering, gathers the lambs in His arms, and carries them in His bosom. His sheep love Him. “And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers.” John 10:5.

PP 191.1

Christ says, “The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine.” Verses 11-14.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Neither Excitement Nor Sensationalism, November 15

YRP 328.2

The Lord has a work for you to do, and if you listen to His voice, you will not be left in darkness. The Saviour says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). “And a stranger will they not follow, ... for they know not the voice of strangers” (verse 5). I am sure that the Lord is revealing to you the perfection and fullness of the atoning work, that your whole heart may be filled with love and thanksgiving, and that you may reveal to others that which the Lord is revealing to you. The image of Christ engraved upon the heart is reflected in character, in practical life, day by day, because we represent a personal Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 102, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 102, 1894, par. 3

The Lord has a work for you to do, and if you listen to His voice, you will not be left in darkness. The Saviour says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” “And a stranger will they not follow, for they know not the voice of strangers.” [John 10:27, 5.] I am sure that the Lord is revealing to you the perfection and fullness of the atoning work, that your whole heart may be filled with love and thanksgiving, and that you may reveal to others that which the Lord is revealing to you. The image of Christ engraved upon the heart is reflected in character, in practical life, day by day, because we represent a personal Saviour. The Holy Spirit is promised to all who will ask for it. When you search the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit is by your side, personating Jesus Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 214, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 214, 1897, par. 19

You speak in regard to the teachings in organization. Yes, it was every word of it correct, but when organization [has] become, through the administrations, so mingled with the imperfections of human agents, we had best have our eyes anointed with the eyesalve that we may see. We have now to follow our Leader Jesus Christ individually, and withdraw our implicit confidence in the organizations that are handled by men who know not the voice of the true Shepherd. “My sheep hear my voice and they follow me, but a stranger will they not follow.” [John 10:27, 5.] You, nor I, need not become confused, my brother. You or I need not to learn our duty from Battle Creek. We have our Bibles, the Word, and a living Saviour at hand. We can gain the most precious experience when we shall rely upon One who never makes a mistake—our hearts softened and subdued, humbled under a sense of His compassion and His great love wherewith He hath loved us. We will seek light from God, and it will come to us in individual experience. Be of good help and good courage in the Lord, for He will be your helper and our God. Praise His holy name.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 8, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, par. 9

In every church bear the message that man is not to exalt his own judgment. Meekness and lowliness of heart will lead men to desire counsel at every step. And the Lord will say, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Verse 29.] It is our privilege to learn of Jesus. But when men, full of self-confidence, think that it is their place to give counsel, instead of desiring to be counseled by their experienced brethren, they will listen to voices that will lead them in strange paths. “My sheep,” saith Christ, “hear My voice, and follow Me; but a stranger will they not follow.” [See John 10:27, 5.] Would that every minister realized the solemn responsibility resting upon him to carry the work forward without blemish. The instruction given me is, “Speak the words of Christ, ‘Take My yoke upon you, and follow Me.’”

Lift Him Up

Christ Is the Door, July 2

LHU 197.1

Then said Jesus unto them ..., Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. John 10:7.

Christ Triumphant

Truth Moves Us Toward Heaven, March 21

CTr 87.1

Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. John 10:9, NRSV.

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

MR No. 1411—The Ladder to Heaven

19MR 352.3

Christ is the ladder. “By Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture” (John 10:9).

Our High Calling

Christ, the Ladder to Heaven, March 1

OHC 66.3

Every link which bound earth to heaven and man to the infinite God seemed broken. Man might look to heaven, but how could he attain it? But joy to the world! The Son of God, the Sinless One, the One perfect in obedience, becomes the channel through which the lost communion may be renewed, the way through which the lost paradise may be regained. Through Christ, man’s substitute and surety, man may keep the commandments of God. He may return to his allegiance and God will accept him. Christ is the ladder. “By me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9....

That I May Know Him

A Bridge for the Gulf, March 17

TMK 82.5

“By me,” said Christ, “if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture” (John 10:9). Let earth be glad, let the inhabitants of the world rejoice, that Christ has bridged the gulf which sin had made, and has bound earth and heaven together. A highway has been cast up for the ransomed of the Lord. The weary and heavy laden may come unto Him and find rest to their souls. The pilgrim may journey toward the mansions that He has gone to prepare for those who love Him.23The Review and Herald, November 11, 1890.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 13, 1884

4LtMs, Ms 13, 1884, par. 50

Christ is the ladder. “By me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9.

That I May Know Him

Life’s Best Things, March 20

TMK 85.1

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 27—“Thou Canst Make Me Clean”

DA 270.2

Jesus came to “destroy the works of the devil.” “In Him was life,” and He says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” He is “a quickening spirit.” 1 John 3:8; John 1:4; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45. And He still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick, and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities,” He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3.

The Faith I Live By

Jesus’ Resurrection and the New Life, February 14

FLB 51.1

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10.

The Retirement Years

The How and Why of this Book

RY 9.3

As Trustees it is our prayer that this collection of letters, articles, and messages from the pen of God’s devoted servant will be a practical and cherished source of wisdom and guidance to people of retirement years, as well as to those of preretirement times who wish to grasp more fully the statement of Christ: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

Ye Shall Receive Power

Born Again, February 1

YRP 40.4

Christ does not find His subjects fitted for His kingdom, but He qualifies them by His divine power. Those who have been dead in trespasses and sins are quickened to spiritual life. The faculties which God has given them for holy purposes are refined, purified, and exalted, and they are led to form characters after the divine similitude. Though they have misapplied their talents and made them serve sin; though Christ has been to them a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, because they stumbled at the Word, being disobedient, yet by the drawing of His love they are led at last into the path of duty. Christ said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 27—The First Leper to Be Cleansed by Christ

HLv 175.3

Jesus still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities”; He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3; see 1 John 3:8; John 1:4-10; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 81—“The Lord Is Risen”

HLv 523.3

In our Saviour, the life that was lost through sin is restored. He is invested with the right to give immortality. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. “Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:54. To the Christian, death is but a sleep, a moment of silence and darkness. “When Christ, who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 31, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 31, 1895, par. 3

A little longer, only a little longer, and it will be said in heaven, “It is done.” “He that is unjust let him be unjust still: and he that is filthy let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” [Revelation 16:17; 22:11.] I can say that my heart panteth after God as the hart panteth after the water brooks. He will freely give us a great peace, and a great possession. He says, “I am come that you might have life.” How much Lord? “Life more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] We are complete in Him. We must lift the cross of self-denial and self-sacrifice. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] The righteousness of Christ is a great, a wonderful, gift. It comes from the heart of Christ to our hearts.

Heaven

Chapter 5—Christ’s Second Coming

Hvn 37.2

Death is a Small Matter—To the believer, Christ is the resurrection and the life. In our Saviour the life that was lost through sin is restored; for He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will. He is invested with the right to give immortality. The life that He laid down in humanity, He takes up again, and gives to humanity. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” “Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 10:10; 4:14; 6:54.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 87, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 87, 1897, par. 2

It is our privilege to do our best in treating the sick. All that we do is to be done in faith, relying upon the Great Healer. “I am come,” said Jesus, “that ye might have life, and that ye might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] The lessons of the life of Christ are precious to us. He waited, He worked, He prayed, in behalf of man. He depended upon God, and in His life plans worked with God. He cooperated perfectly with the will of His Father. We need to copy this Pattern in all things.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 131, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 131, 1900, par. 7

The divine antidote for the sin of the whole world is contained in the gospel of St. John. There is found a recipe for all the maladies of the soul. “Whoso eateth of my flesh and drinketh of my blood,” Christ declares, “hath eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:54.] He may die, as Christ died, but the life of the Saviour is in him; his life is hid with Christ in God. “I am come that they might have life,” Jesus said, “and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] Again He said, “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life.” [John 4:14.] “This spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him shall receive.” [John 7:39.] Christ carries on the great process by which believers become one with Him in this present life and are one with Him in life eternal.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 44, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 44, 1909, par. 13

“I am come,” the Saviour said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” [John 10:10; 3:16, 17.] Never was there such depth of meaning in any words as in those of the Saviour as He stood before the world, the cross in view, and declared, “I am come.” “He that sent Me is true.” [John 7:28.] Christ was sent from heaven with the gift of eternal life for all who would receive it. The message was true; and it cost the life of Him who brought it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 11, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, par. 19

Christ was sent from heaven with the gift of eternal life for all who would receive it. The message He brought was true; but it cost the life of Him who gave it. “I am come,” the Saviour said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] Never was there such depth of meaning in any words as in those of the Saviour as He stood before the world, the cross in view, and said, “I am come; He that sent Me is true.” [See John 7:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 189, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 189, 1909, par. 16

Now the work of every enlightened soul is to give the word of invitation: “Come, partake of the waters of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.] Wherefore the One who has said, “I am come,” tells us, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” [John 10:10; Matthew 11:28.] He came that He might give the invitation, “Come.” He had first to come in human form, that we might come to Christ. He came in human likeness, that we should not be extinguished by His glory. He laid off His royal robe and His kingly crown and came as a divine Teacher, that humanity could have speech with Him, and learn of Him His meekness and His perfection, that they may in their humanity reach toward divinity by being partakers of His divine nature.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Healer of the Soul, March 21

JNN 89.3

Jesus came to “destroy the works of the devil.” “In Him was life,” and He says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” He is “a quickening spirit” (1 John 3:8; John 1:4; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45). And He still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick, and spoke forgiveness to the sinner....

In Heavenly Places

Living Abundantly, February 23

HP 60.1

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10.

Letters to Young Lovers

From the Bible

“I am come that they might have life, and might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

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

MR No. 1578—News from Australia; A Call to Sanctification and to Work for Souls

21MR 372.1

Christ could not help being bright and shining. His very work was to shine. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” [John 10:10]. “In Me is no darkness at all” [See 1 John 1:5]. With sadness Christ says that there are some who love not the light, because their deeds are evil. They do not come to Jesus to deliver them from the power of evil. Light means revelation, and the light is to shine amid moral darkness. Christ is everything to those who receive Him. He is their Comforter, their safety, their healthfulness. Apart from Christ there is no light at all.

My Life Today

Abundant Life in Christ, October 18

ML 295.1

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 9, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 9, 1899, par. 10

What fullness is expressed in the words, “I am the light of the world.” “I am the Bread of Life.” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “I am the Good Shepherd.” “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 8:12; 6:35; 14:16; 10:11, 10.] This life is what we must have, and we must have it more abundantly. God will breathe this life into every soul that dies to self and lives to Christ. But entire self-renunciation is required. Unless this takes place, we carry with us the evil that destroys our happiness. But when self is crucified, Christ lives in us, and the power of the Spirit attends our efforts.

Our High Calling

A Higher Standard, January 15

OHC 21.1

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10.

OHC 21.2

What fullness is expressed in the words, “I am the light of the world.” John 8:12. “I am the bread of life.” John 6:35. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” John 14:6. “I am the good shepherd.” John 10:14. “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. This life is what we must have, and we must have it more abundantly. God will breathe this life into every soul that dies to self and lives to Christ. But entire self-renunciation is required. Unless this takes place, we carry with us the evil that destroys our happiness. But when self is crucified, Christ lives in us, and the power of the Spirit attends our efforts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 13, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 13, 1892, par. 37

Will those who profess to believe the truth listen to the words of Jesus? He has said, “I am come that ye might have life, and that ye might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] “I am the bread of life.” [John 6:35.] “I am the good Shepherd, ... and I lay down my life for the sheep.” [John 10:14, 15.] Will those who are called by His name believe that the children of God are very precious in His sight? Let us consider what the Lord has done for us. Shall not the love manifested toward us be appreciated? Shall it not be permitted to melt our hearts, to humble our pride to the dust?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 200, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 200, 1898, par. 1

“I am the good shepherd. ... I lay down my life for the sheep.” [John 10:14, 15.] He is the only one to whom we can look to give His sheep eternal life. “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [Verse 10.] The apostle lifts up Jesus and declares, “In him are hid all treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” [Colossians 2:3.] Why do so large a number seek wisdom from those who have never sought wisdom of Jesus Christ, those who have never learned in the school of Christ? Why not come to Christ in faith?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 51, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 51, 1890, par. 20

It is suggested that it will be wise for me to speak in Lynn Monday and Tuesday evenings, and then Wednesday take the cars for Washington, D.C. May the Lord be our counselor, is my most earnest prayer. I do not wish to presume upon my strength. I want to use the strength which the Lord has given me to His own name’s glory. I will pour out my supplications before God with thanksgiving for all His mercies and matchless grace to me, who needs it so much that I can impart it to others and comfort them with the blessed assurances. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” [Verse 6.] “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] “I am the bread of life.” [John 6:35.] “I am the Good Shepherd.” [John 10:11.] “I lay down my life for the sheep.” [Verse 15.] “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [Verse 10.]

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 11—Grand Resurrection

CSA 43.6

Now was proved the truth of His words, “I lay down My life, that I might take it again.... I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” Now was fulfilled the prophecy He had spoken to the priests and rulers, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” John 10:17, 18; John 2:19.

CSA 44.3

To the believer, Christ is the resurrection and the life. In our Saviour the life that was lost through sin is restored; for He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will. He is invested with the right to give immortality. The life that He laid down in humanity, He takes up again, and gives to humanity. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”“Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” “Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 10:10; 4:14; 6:54.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 81—“The Lord Is Risen”

DA 785.2

When the voice of the mighty angel was heard at Christ’s tomb, saying, Thy Father calls Thee, the Saviour came forth from the grave by the life that was in Himself. Now was proved the truth of His words, “I lay down My life, that I might take it again.... I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” Now was fulfilled the prophecy He had spoken to the priests and rulers, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” John 10:17, 18; 2:19.

DA 786.4

To the believer, Christ is the resurrection and the life. In our Saviour the life that was lost through sin is restored; for He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will. He is invested with the right to give immortality. The life that He laid down in humanity, He takes up again, and gives to humanity. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” “Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 10:10; 4:14; 6:54.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 131, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 131, 1897, par. 1

When the voice of the angel was heard saying, “Thy Father calls thee,” He who had said, “I lay down my life that I may take it again,” “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up again,” came forth from the grave to life that was in Himself. [John 10:17; 2:19.] Deity did not die. Humanity died, but Christ now proclaims over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] In His divinity Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. He declares that He had life in Himself to quicken whom He will.

12LtMs, Ms 131, 1897, par. 2

“I am the resurrection, and the life.” [Verse 25.] This language can be used only by the Deity. All created things live by the will and power of God. They are dependent recipients of the life of the Son of God. However able and talented, however large their capabilities, they are replenished with life from the Source of all life. Only He who alone hath immortality, dwelling in light and life, could say, “I have power to lay down my life, and I have power to take it again.” [John 10:18.] All the human beings in our world take their life from Him. He is the spring, the fountain of life.

12LtMs, Ms 131, 1897, par. 5

Christ was invested with the right to give immortality. The life which He had laid down in humanity He now takes up again, and gives to humanity. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] “Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:54.] “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life.” [John 4:14.]

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 44—The Risen Saviour

1SM 301.1

“I am the resurrection, and the life” (John 11:25). He who had said, “I lay down my life, that I might take it again” (John 10:17), came forth from the grave to life that was in Himself. Humanity died; divinity did not die. In His divinity, Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. He declares that He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will.

1SM 301.2

All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are recipients of the life of the Son of God. However able and talented, however large their capacities, they are replenished with life from the Source of all life. He is the spring, the fountain, of life. Only He who alone hath immortality, dwelling in light and life, could say, “I have power to lay it [my life] down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:18).

1SM 302.2

Christ was invested with the right to give immortality. The life which He had laid down in humanity, He again took up and gave to humanity. “I am come,” He says, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:54). “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 153a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 153a, 1897, par. 17

Each word, each action is a work for God. Here is faith in God, and faith in men. Christ would never have given His life for the human race if He had not faith in the souls for whom He died. He knew that a large number would respond to the love He had expressed for humanity. It is not every heart that responds, but every heart may and can, if it will, respond to that love that is without a parallel. “My sheep hear my voice,” Christ said. [John 10:27.] A heart yearning for God will recognize the voice of God. God cannot respond to one soul that does not respond to His grace offered, His love bestowed.

12LtMs, Lt 153a, 1897, par. 23

Christ could not help being bright and shining. His very work was to shine. “I am come,” He said, “that they may have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] In Me is no darkness at all. With sadness Christ says that there are some who love not the light, because their deeds are evil. They do not come to Jesus to deliver them from the power of evil. Light means revelation, and the light is to shine amid moral darkness. Christ is everything to those who receive Him. He is their Comforter, their safety, their healthfulness. Apart from Christ there is no light at all.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 50, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 50, 1896, par. 4

“I am the good shepherd, and the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” [John 10:11.] “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them hath gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the wilderness, and seeketh that which is gone astray? and if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than over the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:11-14.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 176, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 176, 1898, par. 12

May the Lord impress upon the minds and hearts of all connected with the sacred work of God the importance of ascertaining whether those who are to minister as deacons and elders are suitable men to be entrusted with the flock of God. Jesus calls Himself the “Good Shepherd.” [John 10:11.] He does this in contrast with those who occupy positions of trust in connection with the church, but who have no right to these places, because they put a wrong mold upon the work. What is natural will appear.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

True Shepherd, April 21

JNN 121.1

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.”—John 10:11

Heaven

Chapter 1—The Way to Heaven

Hvn 10.3

The Surety of Our Deliverance—By His humanity, Christ touched humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold upon the throne of God. As the Son of man, He gave us an example of obedience; as the Son of God, He gives us power to obey. It was Christ who from the bush on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, “I AM THAT I AM.... Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Exodus 3:14. This was the pledge of Israel’s deliverance. So when He came “in the likeness of men,” He declared Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethlehem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God “manifest in the flesh.” 1 Timothy 3:16. And to us He says: “I AM the Good Shepherd.” “I AM the living Bread.” “I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” John 10:11; 6:51; 14:6; Matthew 28:18. I AM the assurance of every promise. I AM; be not afraid. “God with us” is the surety of our deliverance from sin, the assurance of our power to obey the law of heaven.—The Desire of Ages, 24, 25.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 1—“God With Us”

DA 24.3

By His humanity, Christ touched humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold upon the throne of God. As the Son of man, He gave us an example of obedience; as the Son of God, He gives us power to obey. It was Christ who from the bush on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, “I AM THAT I AM.... Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Exodus 3:14. This was the pledge of Israel’s deliverance. So when He came “in the likeness of men,” He declared Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethlehem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God “manifest in the flesh.” 1 Timothy 3:16. And to us He says: “I AM the Good Shepherd.” “I AM the living Bread.” “I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” John 10:11; 6:51; 14:6; Matthew 28:18. I AM the assurance of every promise. I AM; be not afraid. “God with us” is the surety of our deliverance from sin, the assurance of our power to obey the law of heaven.

Homeward Bound

God Understands, February 9

HB 56.3

By His humanity, Christ touched humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold upon the throne of God. As the Son of man, He gave us an example of obedience; as the Son of God, He gives us power to obey. It was Christ who from the bush on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, “I AM THAT I AM.” . . . And to us He says: “I AM the Good Shepherd.” “I AM the living Bread.” “I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” (John 10:11; 6:51; 14:6; Matthew 28:18.) I AM the assurance of every promise. I AM; be not afraid. “God with us” is the surety of our deliverance from sin, the assurance of our power to obey the law of heaven.—The Desire of Ages, 24, 25.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 12—The Good Shepherd

SJ 75.1

The Saviour spoke of Himself as a shepherd, and of the disciples as His flock. He said: “I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine.” John 10:14.

SJ 80.5

Thus were to be fulfilled His own words, “The Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:11.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

The Good Shepherd

GW 181.1

Christ, the great example for all ministers, likens Himself to a shepherd. “I am the good shepherd,” He declares; “the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” “I am the good shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep.” [John 10:11, 14, 15.]

Lift Him Up

The Good Shepherd, July 6

LHU 201.1

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. John 10:11.

LHU 201.2

Christ ... likens Himself to a shepherd. “I am the good shepherd,” He declares; “the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:11, 14, 15).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 92, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 32

Our great Exemplar said, “As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.” [John 14:31.] I beseech you to be much with God in prayer. You can do your work successfully with Jesus. He will show you how to work. When He accomplished one work in His mission, He advanced and addressed himself to another. “This commandment have I received of My Father.” [John 10:18.] In everything that Christ did in the world He consulted the will of God, fulfilling the purpose and design of God in all His earthly life. Thus He represented the will of our heavenly Father toward man.

10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 34

“God is love” [1 John 4:8] is written upon every soul who will receive the superscription. Jesus, the Majesty of heaven will unite all souls to Himself who will permit Him to bind them to His great heart of infinite love. Jesus teaches us that God is an ever present “I AM.” [Exodus 3:14.] It is by cordially believing that we maintain our allegiance to God. Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:14, 15.] Again He said, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 10:11; 6:51.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 13, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 13, 1892, par. 28

Dark hours of trial are before the church because they have not obeyed the warnings and reproofs and counsel of God. What a bewitching power comes upon human minds to do contrary to the oft repeated will of God, and close the eyes and stop the ears, when Jesus is calling to them to hear His voice. He says, “My sheep hear My voice.” [John 10:27.]

7LtMs, Lt 13, 1892, par. 30

We may stand close to the side of Jesus. Let none in his pride of self opinion shirk one hard lesson or lose the blessing of one hard discipline. Humble yourselves under the hand of God, warn all that they do not in stubbornness choose their own way and act like undisciplined, untrained children. Whatever be our condition in life, our business, we have a sure Guide. He is our Counselor. Whatever be our loneliness, He is our Friend in Whom we may ever trust. When voices on every hand are heard to lead us to wander away into false paths, there is a voice that is true that is heard, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” [John 14:6.] You may stop your contention over little items and differences. “Believe in me; I am the true Shepherd.” [John 14:1; 10:11.] “I and my Father are one. I in them, and they in me.” [John 10:30; John 17:23.] “And that the world may believe that thou hast sent me and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [Verse 23.]

In Heavenly Places

The Shepherd’s Tender Care, January 19

HP 25.3

But when it is found, does he act indifferently? Does he call the sheep, and command the straying one to follow him? Does he threaten and beat it, or drive it before him, recounting the bitterness and discomfiture and anxiety that he has had on its account? No; he lays the weary, exhausted, wandering sheep on his shoulder, and ... returns it to the fold. His gratitude finds expression in melodious songs of rejoicing, and heavenly choirs respond to the shepherd’s note of joy.... For “joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine” (John 10:14). Just as a shepherd of earth knows his sheep, so does the chief Shepherd know His flock that are scattered throughout the whole world.... “And ye, my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord God” (Ezekiel 34:31).27The Review and Herald, August 23, 1892.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

Chapter 27—God’s Love

1MCP 250.2

Love Between the Father and the Son a Type—However much a shepherd may love his sheep, he loves his sons and daughters more. Jesus is not only our shepherd; He is our “everlasting Father.” And He says, “I know Mine own, and Mine own know Me, even as the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father” (John 10:14, RV). What a statement is this!—the only-begotten Son, He who is in the bosom of the Father, He whom God has declared to be “the man that is my fellow” (Zechariah 13:7)—the communion between Him and the eternal God is taken to represent the communion between Christ and His children on the earth!—The Desire of Ages, 483 (1898).

The Faith I Live By

Testing the Voice of the Shepherds, November 4

FLB 314.1

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. John 10:14.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 31, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 31, 1886, par. 3

Christ says, “I am the good shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine.” [John 10:14.] In order to know the truth, we must be willing to obey. Those whose affections are placed on the world are not willing to give up their plans for the plans of Christ. They walk in darkness, not knowing whither they go.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 155, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 155, 1899, par. 18

God has shown the interest He has in the human family. He “so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Shall we, then, show no interest in keeping our bodies free from disease, when by thoughtfulness, self-denial, and intelligence we could do this? Wherein lies our strength? In being connected with Christ. He declares, “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you; continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:9-11.] “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep.” [John 10:14, 15.]

Lift Him Up

The Shepherd Gave His Life for the Sheep, July 10

LHU 205.1

I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:14, 15, NIV.

LHU 205.3

However much a shepherd may love his sheep, he loves his sons and daughters more. Jesus is not only our shepherd; He is our “everlasting Father.” And He says, “I know mine own, and mine own know me, even as the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father” (John 10:14, 15, RV). What a statement is this! The only-begotten Son, He who is in the bosom of the Father, He whom God has declared to be “the man that is my fellow” (Zechariah 13:7)—the communion between Him and the eternal God is taken to represent the communion between Christ and His children on the earth!

LHU 205.5

Jesus thought upon the souls all over the earth who were misled by false shepherds. Those whom He longed to gather as the sheep of His pasture were scattered among wolves, and He said, “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and they shall become one flock, one shepherd” (John 10:16, RV).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 2, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 2, 1888, par. 9

The ministry must be elevated; the men in sacred office must be devoted and God-fearing. One reckless man, irreverent, careless in speech, <theatrical in attitude,> unconsecrated in spirit, will, through his influence, mold others to do as he does, to act as he acts, and to meet the same low standard which he has erected for himself in the place of meeting God’s standard. Says Christ, “I know my sheep, and my sheep hear my voice.” Again He says, “I am known of mine.” [John 10:27, 14.]

That I May Know Him

Christ the Good Shepherd, February 15

TMK 52.1

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:14, 15.

TMK 52.4

Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, ... and they follow me” (John 10:27). The Shepherd of Israel does not drive His flock, but He leads them. His attitude is wholly one of invitation. “My sheep hear my voice.” If we are indeed sons and daughters of God we not only hear, but recognize the voice above all others. We appreciate the words of Christ, we distinguish the truth as it is in Jesus from all error, and the truth refreshes the soul, and fills it with gladness....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 20, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 2

Jesus says, “I know my sheep.” [John 10:14.] Let us consider this statement. We are known by God before we receive Him. “I know my sheep.” How do souls become Christ’s sheep? By choosing to receive him. But Christ had first chosen them. He knew every one who would respond to His drawing, and He knew every one who would be inclined to receive Him, but who, through popular influences, would turn from Him. John says to all, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Those who heard the voice and did behold Jesus as the Lamb of God, believed in Him and became His property from their own choice. But they were not the first to see, for God chose them, and their choosing of Christ is in response to His drawing.

10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 8

Jesus says, “My sheep know my voice, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] The shepherd of Israel does not drive His flock, but He leads them. His attitude is wholly one of invitation. “My sheep know my voice.” If we are indeed sons and daughters of God, we not only hear, but recognize, the voice above all others; we appreciate the words of Christ, we distinguish the truth as it is in Jesus from all error, and the truth refreshes the soul and fills it with gladness. The truth received into the heart transforms the character. Christ is the Truth and the Life, and all who follow Him practice the truth. We obey the Word.

10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 12

Are we followers of Christ? Have we taken upon us His yoke? Are we lifting His burdens? Do we possess His meekness and lowliness, and is His likeness becoming more and more distinct in our characters? If we are followers of Christ, He, the Great Shepherd of the sheep, hath said, “I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:28.] This promise is made upon conditions that we follow not a stranger, but that we know and understand the voice of Christ. This is the only election brought to view in God’s Word. The beautiful illustration in (Revelation 7) is a pastoral symbol.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 79, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 79, 1900, par. 14

Christ spoke with the authority of greatness as with a clear, distinct voice He said, “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] “I am the bread of life.” [John 6:35.] “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] “I am the good shepherd. ... My sheep hear my voice, and they know me, and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:14, 27, 28.] “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 15, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 15, 1902, par. 9

Christ gave His all—His glory, His riches, His life—for the salvation of sinners. Shall not those to whom He has given power to become sons and daughters of God consecrate their all to him? Shall they not devote their talents to the work of saving sinners? The great Medical Missionary has made it binding on His followers to co-operate with Him, to be His helping hand in seeking and saving that which is lost. He is the good shepherd. He declares, “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. ... My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” [John 10:14-16, 27-29.]

The Upward Look

The Need for Unity, May 15

UL 149.4

The great apostasy originally began in a denial of the love of God, as it is plainly revealed in the Word. Provision was then made whereby fallen man might have a powerful revelation of the love of God, and be given an opportunity to return to his allegiance to Jehovah. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). “I lay down my life for the sheep,” says Christ (chap. 10:15). “The bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world” (chap. 6:51). Here is a revelation of the power mighty to save “to the uttermost.” God is light and love.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 172, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, par. 9

The great apostasy originally began in a denial of the love of God, as it is plainly revealed in the Word. Provision was then made whereby fallen man might have a powerful revelation of the love of God and be given an opportunity to return to his allegiance to Jehovah. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] “I lay down My life for the sheep,” says Christ. [John 10:15.] “The bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 6:51.] Here is a revelation of the power mighty to save “to the uttermost.” [Hebrews 7:25.] God is light and love.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 248, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, par. 4

Jesus gave His life to save the sheep of His pasture. “I lay down My life for the sheep,” He declared. [John 10:15.] The sacrifice of Christ was made that men might learn how to make their lives a convincing power for truth and righteousness. But the churches are so full of selfishness, that God’s will is not done. The truth, professedly received, does not sanctify the soul of the receiver. There is so much worship of the human will, that the Holy Spirit cannot make its impression on the mind. If those who have the light of truth were abiding in Christ, changes would be wrought in life and character that we do not now see. God’s people have an earnest work to do; for the end of all things, so long foretold, is very near.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 130, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 12

Then why is there not a practical carrying out of this principle of love? Christ gave His own life for the life of the world. “Therefore doth my Father love me because I lay down my life for the sheep.” [See John 10:17, 15.] Why do not these words of Christ stir our souls with intense desire to love one another as He has loved us? Christ engaged in covenant with God the Father to represent the love of God in His humanity for the fallen race. Christ knew that this great display of the grace of God, which He Himself engaged to represent—nothing less could represent that love of infinity than in giving His own Son to save the guilty sinner. Christ undertook the plan when He knew all things, that nothing else than the infinite capabilities that made Him equal with the Father could possibly express the plan unless He became one with humanity, taking upon Him the nature of man, and thus bearing all the temptations as man, and dying that man might live through faith in His redeeming power.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 27, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 21

“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known, by the church, the manifold wisdom of God. According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:10, 11.] This eternal purpose embodied, before the universe, glory of divine love in the salvation of man. Charged with His <exalted> mission, Jesus came into the world as the visible representative of the invisible God. He said to Philip, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” “Henceforth ye know the Father, and hath seen him.” [John 14:9, 7.] “I and my Father are one.” [John 10:30.]

7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 23

In order to save fallen man, under a sense of the infinite magnitude of the task, Christ undertook to represent to the world the character of God in His great love for the world. Nothing was allowed for a moment to divert His attention from the object before Him. Every thought and purpose of His life was to carry out the plan of God laid before the foundation of the world. Said Christ, “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life for the sheep” [Verses 17, 15]; that is, “My Father hath so loved you, that He even loves Me more for giving My life to redeem you. In becoming your substitute and surety, by surrendering My life, by taking your liabilities, your transgressions, I am fulfilling His will and vindicating His law of justice; you receive in Me its full penalty.”

Lift Him Up

True Sheep Hear the True Shepherd, July 16

LHU 211.1

And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. John 10:16.

The Upward Look

No One Goes Alone to Heaven, October 13

UL 300.1

And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. John 10:16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 37, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 37, 1900, par. 4

This work of conversion is a work which Christ alone can do. “Other sheep I have,” He said, “which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice, and there shall be one fold and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 156, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, par. 42

When men attach their names to these agreements, they are acting as blind men. Let men remember that they cannot control Providence, that they cannot shape or hinder circumstances. Christ declares, “There shall be one fold and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 127, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 44

Christ declares, “There shall be one fold and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.] He came to our world to live the life that was to be the pattern for all His children. He came to reveal the love that was to bind them heart to heart. And He made unity the badge of their discipleship.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 22, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 22, 1902, par. 5

“Whatsoever things the Father doeth, those things the Son doeth also in like manner.” [John 5:19.] In the language of conscious authority Christ speaks, saying: “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice, and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.] He could say to whom He pleased, “Follow Me;” and the one addressed rose, and followed Him. The spell of the world’s enchantment was broken by His command. At the sound of His voice the spirit of greed and ambition fled from the heart, and men rose, emancipated, and followed the Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 7, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 7, 1902, par. 23

Not a few are trying to work the Holy Spirit according to their own ideas. But we are not to act according to our own impressions, striving to do those things that will make the best possible showing in our portion of the Lord’s vineyard, to the neglect of other portions. God marks every such action. When He sends blessings and advantages to His vineyard, let not a few workers in one portion of the vineyard seek to grasp every advantage possible and leave the other portions barren and unworked. Every part of the vineyard is to be worked with reference to the other parts. Thus will be verified Christ’s words, “There shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 31, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 31, 1911, par. 10

Jesus says, “I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me.” [Verse 6.] How did He do this? By His spotless perfection of character, by His life of unselfish service for an unchanging compassion. “Therefore doth My Father love Me,” He declares, “because I lay down My life for the sheep.” [John 10:17.] “My Father loves you with a love so great that He loves Me the more for dying for you.”

Steps to Christ

Chapter 1—God’s Love for Man

SC 14.1

Jesus said, “Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life, that I might take it again.” John 10:17. That is, “My Father has so loved you that He even loves Me more for giving My life to redeem you. In becoming your Substitute and Surety, by surrendering My life, by taking your liabilities, your transgressions, I am endeared to My Father; for by My sacrifice, God can be just, and yet the Justifier of him who believeth in Jesus.”

That I May Know Him

Calvary—God’s Crowning Work, March 4

TMK 69.2

The love of God was Christ’s theme when speaking of His mission and His work. “Therefore doth my Father love me,” He says, “because I lay down my life, that I might take it again” (John 10:17). My Father loves you with a love so unbounded that He loves Me the more because I have given My life to redeem you. He loves you, and He loves Me more because I love you, and give My life for you.... Well did the disciples understand this love as they saw their Saviour enduring shame, reproach, doubt, and betrayal, as they saw His agony in the Garden, and His death on Calvary’s cross. This is a love the depth of which no sounding can ever fathom. As the disciples comprehended it, as their perception took hold of God’s divine compassion, they realized that there is a sense in which the sufferings of the Son were the sufferings of the Father....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 44, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 44, 1898, par. 7

“For their sakes,” said Christ, “I sanctify myself,” in fulfillment of My previous engagement, made before the foundations of the world were laid. [John 17:19.] Thou, O Lamb of God, didst come, and offer Thyself as a living sacrifice, withdrawing Thyself from the heavenly universe, and setting Thyself apart to make a complete sacrifice. Having taken a survey of all that would be required of Him, Christ summed up the guilt to be cancelled. God’s wrath against sin and the punishment for sin must be exhausted. Christ gathered the entire responsibility to His heart, and bent His whole being to the task. He clothed His divinity with humanity and prepared Himself for the sword that was to smite Him as our substitute and surety. “Therefore doth my Father love me,” He said, “because I lay down my life that I might take it again.” [John 10:17.] He was wounded for our iniquities, bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.

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

MR No. 999—Christ as Sacrifice and High Priest

12MR 394.2

Christ was one with the Father. He loved His church, and gave Himself for it. “Therefore doth My Father love Me,” He said to the cavilling scribes and Pharisees, “because I lay down My life, that I might take it again” [John 10:17]. “He saved others; Himself He cannot save” [Matthew 27:42], was the mocking taunt hurled at Him during the agonies of His death on the cross. At any moment He could have saved Himself, and come down from the cross, but had He done this, the world would have been given over to the control of the great apostate.

12MR 395.3

No one of the angels could become a substitute and surety for the human race, for their life is God’s; they could not surrender it. On Christ alone the human family depended for their existence. He is the eternal, self-existent Son, on whom no yoke had come. When God asked, “whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Christ alone of the angelic host could reply, “Here am I; send Me.” He alone had covenanted before the foundation of the world to become a surety for man. He could say that which not the highest angel could say—“I have power over My own life. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” [see John 10:18].

That I May Know Him

Resurrection to New Life, March 6

TMK 71.3

He who had said, “I lay down my life, that I might take it again” (John 10:17), came forth from the grave to life that was in Himself. Humanity died; divinity did not die. In His divinity Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. He declares that He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will.

TMK 71.4

All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are recipients of the life of the Son of God. However able and talented, however large their capacities, they are replenished with life from the Source of all life. He is the spring, the fountain, of life. Only He who alone hath immortality, dwelling in light and life, [could] say, “I have power to lay it [my life] down, and I have power to take it again” (verse 18).... Christ was invested with the right to give immortality. The life which He had laid down in humanity, He again took up and gave to humanity....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 101, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 101, 1897, par. 24

Christ was one with the Father. He loved His church, and gave Himself for it. “Therefore doth my Father love me,” He said to the cavilling scribes and Pharisees, “because I lay down my life that I might take it again.” [John 10:17.] “He saved others; himself he cannot save,” was the mocking taunt hurled at Him during the agonies of His death on the cross. [Matthew 27:42.] At any moment He could have saved Himself, and come down from the cross, but had He done this, the world would have been given over to the control of the great apostate.

12LtMs, Ms 101, 1897, par. 28

No one of the angels could become a substitute and surety for the human race, for their life is God’s; they could not surrender it. On Christ alone the human family depended for their existence. He is the eternal, self-existent Son, on whom no yoke had come. When God asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Christ alone of the angelic host could reply, “Here am I; send Me.” [Isaiah 6:8.] He alone had covenanted before the foundation of the world to become a surety for man. He could say that which not the highest angel could say—“I have power over my own life. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” [John 10:18.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

First Fruits of Those That Slept, March 3

JNN 71.2

When the voice of the mighty angel was heard at Christ’s tomb, saying, Thy Father calls Thee, the Saviour came forth from the grave by the life that was in Himself. Now was proved the truth of His words, “I lay down My life, that I might take it again.... I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:17, 18)....

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

MR No. 546—Christ, the Second Adam

8MR 38.2

“Therefore doth the Father love Me,” said Christ, “because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father.” (John 10:17, 18.)

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 48—The Divine Standard

1SM 322.1

Voluntarily our divine Substitute bared His soul to the sword of justice, that we might not perish but have everlasting life. Said Christ, “I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:17, 18). No man of earth or angel of heaven could have paid the penalty for sin. Jesus was the only one who could save rebellious man. In Him divinity and humanity were combined, and this was what gave efficiency to the offering on Calvary’s cross. At the cross mercy and truth met together, righteousness and peace kissed each other.

Selected Messages Book 3

Real Meaning of the Incarnation

3SM 141.2

“Therefore doth my Father love me,” said Christ, “because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father” (John 10:17, 18).

That I May Know Him

The Joy Set Before Him, December 28

TMK 368.4

Men are contaminated with sin, and they cannot have an adequate conception of the heinous character of the evil which they cherish. Because of sin the Majesty of heaven was stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. Voluntarily our divine Substitute bared His soul to the sword of justice, that we might not perish but have everlasting life. Said Christ: “I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself” (John 10:17, 18).... No man of earth nor angel of heaven could have paid the penalty of sin. Jesus was the only one who could save rebellious man.36Ibid.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 5, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 5, 1895, par. 6

When Jesus arose from the dead, He brought with Him from their graves a multitude of captives. Thus was shown His triumph over the prince of this world. The prince of this world had had no power to take His life from Him; He had laid it down as a voluntary sacrifice in man’s behalf. He had not been compelled to this course of action. He had said, “Therefore doth my father love me, because I lay down my life that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.” [John 10:17, 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 99, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 99, 1903, par. 12

“Therefore doth the Father love Me,” said Christ, “because I lay down My life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of My Father.” [John 10:17, 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 139, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 139, 1907, par. 9

“I lay down My life,” Christ declared; “no man taketh it from Me.” [John 10:17, 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 95, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 95, 1894, par. 14

He who is daily a learner in the school of Christ can say, “As the Father gave me commandment, so I do.” [John 14:31.] Thus did the Son of God in His human life leave us an example of perfect obedience, prefacing every deed with such words as these: That which the Son seeth the Father do, he doeth also. “This commandment have I received of my Father.” [John 10:18.] The history of Christ’s human life in our world is the record of His purpose toward us for the manifestation of His divine perfection. He was the light shining in darkness, and what is the record? “And the darkness comprehended it not.” [John 1:5.] The standard is high, for Christ is our Standard, and He could justly claim perfection in all His works. But how few, in their practice, will follow the Lamb of God whithersoever He goeth. Following Jesus, imbued with His Spirit moment by moment, the human agent would represent Christ, as Christ represented the Father.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 96, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 96, 1904, par. 2

“As the Father hath given Me commandment, so I do,” He declared. [John 14:31.] “This commandment have I received of My Father.” [John 10:18.] “In all that I do, I consult the will and fulfil the purposes of the eternal God. The words that I speak, the acts that I perform, are the fulfilment of the wishes and purposes of God. They are the manifestation of His great love for human beings.”

Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

MR No. 144—As the End Draws Near

2MR 225.1

All that Jesus did on the earth was done with an eye single to the glory of His Father. He says, “As the Father gave Me commandment, even so I do” [John 14:31]. “This commandment have I received of My Father” [John 10:18]. In all He did, He was working out the will of His Father, so that His life on earth was a manifestation of the divine perfection. The union of divinity with humanity in Christ, was to reveal to us God’s purpose to bring man into the closest connection with Himself. We cannot possibly be happy without Him.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 43—Christ the Life-giver

1SM 296.2

“In him was life; and the life was the light of men” (John 1:4). It is not physical life that is here specified, but immortality, the life which is exclusively the property of God. The Word, who was with God, and who was God, had this life. Physical life is something which each individual receives. It is not eternal or immortal; for God, the Life-giver, takes it again. Man has no control over his life. But the life of Christ was unborrowed. No one can take this life from Him. “I lay it down of myself” (John 10:18), He said. In Him was life, original, unborrowed, underived. This life is not inherent in man. He can possess it only through Christ. He cannot earn it; it is given him as a free gift if he will believe in Christ as his personal Saviour. “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent” (John 17:3). This is the open fountain of life for the world.

The Faith I Live By

Proving the Will of God, April 18

FLB 114.3

In all His Godlike deeds, the world’s Redeemer declares, “I can of mine own self do nothing.” “This commandment have I received of my Father.” John 5:30; 10:18. All I do is in fulfillment of the counsel and will of My heavenly Father. The history of the daily earthly life of Jesus is the exact record of the fulfillment of the purposes of God toward man. His life and character were the unfolding or representation of the perfection of the character that man may attain by becoming a partaker of the divine nature, and overcoming the world through daily conflicts.64The Youth’s Instructor, April 23, 1912.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 93—To Brethren in Responsible Positions

1888 720.1

Brethren in responsible positions, you are in danger. I lift my voice in warning. Beware. Unless you watch, and keep your garments unspotted from the world, Satan will stand as your captain. It is now no time to hide your colors, no time to turn traitor, when the battle presses sore. It is no time to lay down or hide our weapons, and give Satan the advantage in the warfare. Watchmen on the walls of Zion must be wide awake. Call to your fellow-watchmen in no sleepy terms, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” Isaiah 21:12. If no response is made, then know that the watchman is unfaithful. It is now no time to relax our efforts, to become tame and spiritless; no time to hide our light under a bushel, to speak smooth things, to prophesy deceit. No, no; there is no place for sleepy watchmen on the walls of Zion. Every power is to be employed wholly and entirely for God. Maintain your allegiance, bearing testimony for God and for truth. Be not turned aside by any suggestion that the world may make. We can make no compromise. There is a living issue before us, which will be of vital importance to the remnant people of God, to the very close of this earth’s history; for eternal interests are here involved. We are to look constantly to the Lord Jesus Christ, the Captain of our salvation. All that Jesus did on the earth was done with an eye single to the glory of His Father. He says, “As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.” (John 14:31.) “This commandment have I received of my Father.” (John 10:18.) In all He did, He was working out the will of His Father, so that His life on earth was a manifestation of the divine perfection. The union of divinity with humanity in Christ, was to reveal to us God’s purpose to bring man into the closest connection with Himself. We can not possibly be happy without Him.

From Heaven With Love

The Guarantee of Our Resurrection

HLv 522.3

When the voice of the mighty angel was heard at Christ’s tomb, saying, Thy Father calls Thee, the Saviour came forth from the grave by the life that was in Himself. Christ had proclaimed in triumph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” These words could be spoken only by the Deity. All created beings are dependent recipients of the life of God. Only He who is one with God could say, I have power to lay down My life, and I have power to take it again. See John 10:18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 1f, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 1f, 1890, par. 3

We are to look constantly to the Lord Jesus Christ, the Captain of our salvation. All that Jesus did on the earth was done with an eye single to the glory of His Father. He says, “As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.” “This commandment have I received of my Father.” [John 14:31; 10:18.] In all He did, He was working out the will of His Father, so that His life on earth was a manifestation of the divine perfection. The union of divinity with humanity in Christ was to reveal to us God’s purpose to bring man into the closest connection with Himself. We cannot possibly be happy without Him.

Selected Messages Book 1

An Answer to a Challenge

1SM 73.2

We may be called “weak and foolish,” enthusiastic, even insane. It may be said of us as it was of Christ, “He hath a devil” (John 10:20). But the work which the Master has given us to do is our work still. We must direct minds to Jesus, not seeking praise or honor of men, but committing ourselves to Him who judgeth righteously. He knows how to help those who while following in His steps suffer in a limited degree the reproach He bore. He was tempted in all points like as we are, that He might know how to succor those who should be tempted.

From Here to Forever

The Courage of a Martyr

HF 97.1

All the city were eager to see this remarkable man. Luther, wearied from the journey, needed quiet and repose. But he had enjoyed only a few hours’ rest when noblemen, knights, priests, and citizens gathered eagerly about him. Among these were nobles who had boldly demanded of the emperor a reform of ecclesiastical abuses. Enemies as well as friends came to look upon the dauntless monk. His bearing was firm and courageous. His pale, thin face wore a kindly and even joyous expression. The deep earnestness of his words gave power that even his enemies could not wholly withstand. Some were convinced that a divine influence attended him; others declared, as had the Pharisees concerning Christ: “He hath a devil.” John 10:20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 4, 1883

4LtMs, Ms 4, 1883, par. 76

We may be called “weak and foolish,” enthusiastic, even insane. It may be said of us as it was of Christ, “He hath a devil.” [John 10:20.] But the work which the Master has given us to do is our work still. We must direct minds to Jesus, not seeking praise or honor of men, but committing ourselves to Him who judgeth righteously. He knows how to help those who, while following in His steps, suffer in a limited degree the reproach He bore. He was tempted in all points like as we are, that He might know how to succor those who should be tempted.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 40a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 13

Those who would be the servants of Christ will have a constant conflict with Satan, who claims the dominion of the earth. Evil angels conspire with evil men that the world may be held under the sway of Satan. The whole energy of apostasy was directed against Jesus, the Champion of God and His truth. The prince of darkness led the Jewish leaders to scorn Jesus as a deceiver, and they said of Him, “He hath a devil,” “he casteth out devils through the prince of devils.” [John 10:20; Matthew 9:34.] Those who believe in the words of Christ, who follow in His footsteps, will not escape the enmity of Satan and the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 9, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 9, 1895, par. 9

We can but recall the times when Christ was upon the earth, when the priests and Pharisees declared, “He hath a devil,” and when the wonderful miracles wrought by Jesus Christ were charged to Beelzebub, the prince of devils. [John 10:20; Matthew 12:24.] This same spirit is manifested in 1895 where the truth is presented. The Holy Spirit is today moving upon the consciences of men, shining into the chambers of the mind and heart, speaking strength to the servants of God warnings and invitations. The Holy Spirit accompanies the believers by the way, impressing their hearts and comforting the souls of those that decide to obey the truth. This makes the words spoken efficient.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 52, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 52, 1906, par. 21

I carry upon my soul the condition of things in Battle Creek. I know of the presentations that will be made in the Battle Creek papers, but what better can be expected? Just such men condemned the Prince of life. They said, “He hath a devil,” and “casteth out devils by Beelzebub, the prince of devils.” [John 10:20; Matthew 12:24.] I am in good company; Christ was reproached and spoken against. I will not turn to the right hand or to the left to save myself from the judgment of such men. We want the truth and nothing but the truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 154, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 154, 1907, par. 29

Did not Christ grow weary with constant unbelief in His mission and in His work? Often He prayed all night for His human powers to be invigorated to bear the insult, the mockery, the charge, “he hath a devil.” [John 10:20.] Did not Jesus suffer with weariness, standing on His feet and healing the sick? When He sat upon a stone to speak His message, closely surrounded with His disciples, He felt Himself favored. Has He not been often beset by the wily foe disguised as an angel of light? He knows my every weakness. He is able to sympathize with me and will be to me a present help in every time of need. Although He, my Saviour, is glorified in the heavenly courts at the right hand of God His Father, He has not forgotten the history of His human life among the highways and the byways. All the reproach, all the falsifying by men in responsible positions He had to bear.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 44, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 44, 1890, par. 31

I was shown that man has sought out many inventions with the aptitude, sharpness, and acute wisdom of Satan’s devices, for he is back of these imaginings. If men would not trust in men, if they would not trust in their own wisdom, which they think is beyond question, but would, in simplicity of faith, trust in the Lord God of Israel, then would they come out of the cave where human reasoning is their strength and stand with God. They could hear His voice and know who it is who speaks with them. Jesus Christ is the only strength and hope of His people. Men will climb to exalted heights, drawing minds to their wisdom. Christ laid hold on the nature of man and erected the cross between humanity and divinity, between heaven and earth, to create a wonderful center of attraction which would draw men across the gulf of sin and separation to Himself, the Lifegiver. “Him hath God the Father sealed.” [John 6:27.] Jesus proclaimed Himself as Him “whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world.” [John 10:36.] At His baptism, all human instrumentality was dispensed with as unworthy of the greatness of the One in whom dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

6LtMs, Ms 44, 1890, par. 33

I saw that strange things would arise—fanciful things. Every man who becomes a laborer together with God will have a hatred of evil, and will resist those passions which are excited and kept in active exercise by Satan to deal treacherously with their fellow brethren. All who will become partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust, have a constant conflict with Satan, who claims dominion over the earth. Evil angels conspire with evil men that the world shall be held under the sway of Satan. The whole aim of the apostasy is to destroy the champions of God and the truth. Jesus Christ came that the world through Him might have life, but He was scorned as a deceiver and they said of Him, “He hath a devil. He doeth miracles through the prince of devils.” [Verse 20; Matthew 9:34.] The cause of truth will be betrayed and God dishonored.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 22, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 22, 1885, par. 9

They are acting over the course which was pursued by the chief priests and scribes and rulers in the days of Christ. They have set their feet in the path of stubborn resistance to the truth as did the Jews in Christ’s day. Human nature is controlled by the powers of darkness; Satan pursued that course in the days of Christ. Nothing that Christ could do or did do removed the prejudice of those who did not want to believe. When He wrought miracles in their midst, they would not believe. The chief priests and rulers were constantly educating and training the people to reject Christ by their falsehoods, their misstatements of His work, their misrepresentation of His doctrines, so that when these miracles were wrought before them, the teachers had a device ready for the occasion. This fellow hath “Beelzebub,” and it is only by the power of the devils He casteth out devils. [Matthew 12:24.] On a similar charge against Him in Jerusalem, the words came from the lips of those who witnessed this good work, These are not the words of Him that hath a devil. [John 10:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 324, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 324, 1908, par. 14

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I showed you from My Father; for which of these works do ye stone Me? The Jews answered Him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but because that Thou, being a man, makest Thyself God. Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the Scriptures cannot be broken; say ye of Him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God? If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though ye believe not Me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in Me, and I in Him. Therefore they sought again to take Him, but He escaped out of their hand.” [John 10:24-39.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Making Home Attractive

CT 114.1

While we are not to indulge blind affection, neither are we to manifest undue severity. Children cannot be brought to the Lord by force. They can be led, but not driven. “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me,” Christ declares. John 10:27. He does not say, My sheep hear My voice and are forced into the path of obedience. Never should parents cause their children pain by harshness or unreasonable exactions. Harshness drives souls into Satan’s net.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 63a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 63a, 1893, par. 2

We feel deeply interested in your letter. I am glad that you have written me so fully so that I can respond, for I feel the tenderest interest in your case. Your dangers have been laid before me. I know that you do not want to injure the work or the precious cause of present truth. Your safety is in being led only by the heavenly Shepherd, who says, “My sheep hear my voice, and follow me.” [John 10:27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 73, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 73, 1896, par. 2

Because you have not changed, do not entertain the idea that you have no changes to make, that your practices were entirely as they should be. If your habits and opinions are stereotyped, then the Lord cannot lead you to advanced, purifying reforms. You, my brother and sister, have a serious question to ask daily, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The Lord Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] We are to follow on step by step to know the Lord, that we may know His goings forth are prepared as the morning. “Follow thou me.” [John 21:22.] “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 117a, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, par. 6

But in the changes that must be made in the institution, no one is to utter speeches that will be as the cut of a whip. Christ says, “My sheep hear my voice, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 145, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 145, 1901, par. 10

Let the tenderness and love of Jesus characterize all your labors. Do not reveal a masterly spirit, as if seeking to drive matters. Christ does not say, “My sheep see and feel my whip and go before me.” He says, “My sheep hear my voice and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] Come close to hearts in simplicity and tender interest. Win the confidence of all for whom you labor. “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; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” [Hebrews 12:12-14.] “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” [Hebrews 4:14-16.]

Lift Him Up

Christ Is Everything to Those Who Receive Him, July 26

LHU 221.1

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 38, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 38, 1902, par. 10

Never do anything that will scatter the sheep of Christ’s pasture. Christ says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] He loves His children, and says, I will confess them before My Father and before His angels.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Saviour-Shepherd, March 19

JNN 87.1

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”—John 10:27

Sons and Daughters of God

We Take Up Our Cross and Follow Christ, August 28

SD 247.1

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Ways in Which the Spirit Leads Us, April 3

YRP 102.1

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 6, 1875

2LtMs, Ms 6, 1875, par. 7

Never should we make items of dress a test of faith if the Christian character is in other respects consistent. These things will come in order without being crowded. The Lord would not have us crowd and press anyone. “My sheep,” says Christ, “hear My voice and they follow Me.” [John 10:27.] The voice of Christ woos and charms but does not command. You are too ready to bear down upon others to censure. You do not cultivate that winning manner, that loving spirit, that Jesus manifested. You must seek to win souls, for you can never compel them. Said the apostle who died for his faith, “I am made all things to all men that I might by all means save some.” [1 Corinthians 9:22.] The salvation of the soul is precious. You must not repulse; you must not make yourself objectionable by your stern manners and by being so very set in your own way. Come just as near others as you can and yet preserve your integrity.

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

MR No. 1093—The Holy Spirit and God’s Word Agree

14MR 71.3

Although you are a little world in yourselves in your island home, yet the tempter is there; he lays his net to ensnare souls. But the Lord loves you, and His guardian angels are round about you. If you are doers of the Word, you will obey the instruction of Jesus Christ. He says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand” [John 10:27, 28].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 75, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 75, 1907, par. 3

Listen to the words of the Saviour, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] “My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” [John 10:27, 28.]

That I May Know Him

Jesus Holds Us Fast! March 15

TMK 80.1

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. John 10:27, 28.

From the Heart

Secure in Jesus’ Hands, June 18

FH 181.1

My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.... And they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. John 10:27, 28.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 1, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 1, 1894, par. 6

Although you are a little world in yourselves in your island home, yet the tempter is there; he lays his net to ensnare souls. But the Lord loves you, and His guardian angels are around about you. If you are doers of the Word, you will obey the instruction of Jesus Christ. He says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:27, 28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 75, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 75, 1895, par. 2

The excuses which they made for not accepting the gracious invitation makes manifest the reason why they did not feel the necessity for prayer in order that the Holy Spirit might enlighten their reason, and combine with their human endeavor. They did not seek to place themselves in the very best position where they could receive the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, and become sanctified in the soul and spirit. They did not appreciate the fact that Christ is the bread that cometh down from heaven, that from him flows the streams of salvation. His inexpressible love had furnished the costly banquet, and had provided unsearchable, inexhaustible resources. To be invited to the supper was the greatest honor that could be conferred, and the universe of heaven looked with amazement and astonishment upon those who refused the gospel feast. The angels listened with grief to the excuses that were offered as a reason for not coming to the banquet that had been prepared at an infinite cost. Can we measure the love that has provided for us the plan of salvation? When we can make a chain long enough to reach into the depths of the pit of sin into which man has fallen, then we can know the depth of the love, the cost of the redemption, that has been provided for us through the death of Christ. Nothing but the love of God could provide so expensive a feast as the gospel feast. The provision is nothing less than Christ himself. He says, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:53, 54.] “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish; neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand!” [John 10:27, 28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 39, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 39, 1898, par. 16

Said Christ, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:27, 28.] Men talk of independence, of self-reliance, but they can have self-reliance with safety only in God. Man’s self-reliance is a miserable failure which takes him away from the divine Counsellor, in whom he lives and moves, and has his being.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 65, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 65, 1898, par. 18

How many names will be written in the Lamb’s book of life because they have learned from your life and Christlike character to become sons and daughters of God? We are to seek to live in unity with Christ. “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself except it abide in the vine,” said Christ, “no more can ye except ye abide in me.” [John 15:4.] We may have the faithful Shepherd’s guidance at every step. Said Christ, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, And I will give to them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:27, 28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 39, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 39, 1899, par. 14

God has marked out the way with His prophetic guideposts. We are not left to depend on man’s wisdom. The great waymarks God Himself has raised show us that the path of obedience is the only path we can follow with certainty. Men break their word, and prove themselves untrustworthy, but God changes not. His Word will abide the same forever. Those who love and obey the law of Jehovah will meet with trials and temptations, but this is only what Jesus met, and He declares, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:27, 28.] If we hope and pray and by faith trust His Word, we shall be able to say with Paul, “I am persuaded that neither life nor death, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Romans 8:38, 39.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 23, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 23, 1892, par. 8

There is one thing we should not forget, and that is that “every plant that my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up.” [Matthew 15:13.] Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them and they follow me; and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My father which gave them me is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of (my) Father’s hand.” [John 10:27-29.] “All that my Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.]

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

MR No. 318—The Christian Pathway

5MR 256.5

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one.” [John 10:27-30.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 38, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 38, 1886, par. 1

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.” John 10:27-30.

4LtMs, Ms 38, 1886, par. 2

Here Christ has said, “My sheep hear My voice, ... and they follow Me.” [Verse 27.] We have the fact presented that no one could pluck them out of His hand. “Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:24, 25.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1421—Soul Winning In Maitland; The Privilege Of Prayer

20MR 10.6

God has a faithful people upon the earth. The company of the Lord’s precious ones are not now all in sight to be distinguished and counted. They are hidden now, but the proclamation of the third angel’s message is to bring them to sight ere long. We are becoming acquainted with some of these precious hidden ones, and my soul is glad that they take their position firmly and gladly. Thus it has been in Maitland. Said our Lord, “I give unto them eternal life; ... neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand” [John 10:28].—Letter 254, 1899.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 36, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, par. 10

In the eyes of the world, those who serve God may appear weak. They may be apparently sinking beneath the billows; but with the next billow they are seen rising nearer to their haven. “I give unto them eternal life,” saith our Lord, “and none shall be able to pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:28.] Though kings shall be cast down, and nations removed, the souls that through faith link themselves with God’s purposes shall abide forever. “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 13 (1898)

Lt 103, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 103, 1898, par. 5

No one can estimate the worth of the soul as can He who made the expiatory, atoning sacrifice, that fallen man might stand on vantage ground with God. The only begotten Son bound up His life interest for eternity with every soul who will come to Him and receive Him by faith. Hear what He says. “I give unto them eternal life, and none shall pluck them out of my hands.” [John 10:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 254, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 254, 1899, par. 5

We know not the future, but we must have peace and rest and quietude in Him who hath loved us and given His life for us. What a privilege to take everything to God in prayer! Everything around us is stirring and changing. In the midst of all changes how thankful I am to know that the sweet voice of mercy is still heard and there are added to the church of such as shall be saved. God has a faithful people upon the earth. The company of the Lord’s precious ones are not now all in sight to be distinguished and counted. They are hidden now, but the proclamation of the third angel’s message is to bring them to sight ere long. We are becoming acquainted with some of these precious hidden ones, and my soul is glad that they take their position firmly and gladly. Thus it has been in Maitland. Said the Lord, “I give unto them eternal life; ... neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 197, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 197, 1903, par. 9

Today Satan strives to lead the disciples of Christ from their allegiance. He is a wary, artful foe, and were we left to battle against him in our own strength, we should be overcome. But help has been laid upon one that is mighty. When Christ went away, He said to His disciples, “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end.” [Matthew 28:20.] In this promise the lapse of time has wrought no change. Though now He has ascended to the presence of God, and shares the throne of the universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature. Today the same tender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity. Today the hand that was pierced is reached forth to save His people that are in the world. They shall never perish, He says, “neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:28.] The one who has given himself to God is more precious than the whole world. The Saviour would have passed through the agony of Calvary, that one might be saved in His kingdom. He will never abandon one for whom He died. Unless His followers choose to leave Him, He will hold them fast.

The Faith I Live By

The Hand That Never Lets Go, August 31

FLB 249.3

Dear young friends, One greater than any human guide calls upon you to follow Him over the heights of patience and self-sacrifice. The path is not an easy one.... All the way along, Satan has prepared pitfalls for the feet of the unwary. But following our Guide, we may walk with perfect security; for the path is consecrated by His footsteps. It may be steep and rugged, but He has traveled it; His feet have pressed down the thorns to make the way easier for us. Every burden we are called upon to bear, He Himself has borne. Personal contact with Him brings light and hope and power. Of those who follow Him, He says, “They shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” John 10:28.151The Youth’s Instructor, May 1, 1902.

The Upward Look

The Keeping Power of God, January 28

UL 42.1

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. John 10:28.

This Day With God

How God Sees Greatness, December 9

TDG 352.7

In the eyes of the world, those who serve God may appear weak. They may be apparently sinking beneath the billows, but with the next billow they are seen rising nearer to their haven. “I give unto them eternal life,” saith our Lord; “... neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand” (John 10:28). Though kings shall be cast down, and nations removed, the souls that through faith link themselves with God’s purposes shall abide forever. “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).—Manuscript 36, December 9, 1896, “Obedience the Condition of Success.”