EGW WritingsJohn 14
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 7
Read John 14 in the BibleJohn 14:1-2
The Upward Look
Where Is Your Treasure? December 7
UL 355.1
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. John 14:1, 2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 29, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 29, 1885, par. 42
I had great freedom in speaking. The Lord blessed me while presenting before the people the examples of faith which are recorded for our strength and courage. These things are written for our admonition upon whom the ends of the world are come. Nearly all present thanked me for the good words they had heard. Two brothers and a son of one translated for me. One is a minister. These three understood English. In the evening I spoke again from John, “Let not your hearts be troubled, ye believe in God believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions, etc.” [John 14:1, 2.] The Lord gave me His Spirit, and at the close of the meeting nearly all present shook hands with me. One man understood English and said, “The Lord has been here tonight. You have spoken by the inspiration of His Spirit.” Several expressed an earnest wish for us to remain longer.John 14:1-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 184, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 184, 1897, par. 5
“Let not your hearts be troubled,” He said. [John 14:1.] But should not their hearts be troubled? Had He not just said that the cock should not crow thrice before Peter should deny Him thrice?12LtMs, Ms 184, 1897, par. 6
“Ye believe in God; believe also in me.” [Verse 1.] Cultivate implicit faith in me, and it will be a safeguard in the hour of trial. From the evidence they had received, from their knowledge of Christ and His work the disciples were to believe in Him.12LtMs, Ms 184, 1897, par. 10
“In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:2, 3.] These words of Christ are assurance enough, if He had said nothing more. “If that which you see and experience in a few days was to end your relation to Me, I would have told you. In the place of sorrowing, you should rejoice. Although your hearts are and will be troubled and perplexed, yet in the end you will rejoice, for I go to prepare a place for you. You will have a right to be there, a right to be in the Father’s presence.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 121, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 121, 1897, par. 6
Christ has declared that in His Father’s house are many mansions. “And if I go and prepare a place for you,” He says, “I will come again, and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:3.] When Christ lay in the tomb, His disciples called to mind these words. They pondered over them, and wept because they could not fathom the meaning of them. No faith and hope relieved the broken-hearted disciples. They could only repeat the words, “I will come again, and receive you unto myself: that where I am, there ye may be also.”12LtMs, Lt 121, 1897, par. 8
Jesus asks no more of men than that they shall follow in His footsteps. He was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory; but for our sakes He became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich. Almost His last words to us are, “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [Verse 1.] In the place of being sorrowful, your hearts troubled, you should rejoice. I came into the world for your sakes. My time here is now accomplished. I shall henceforth be in heaven. For your sakes I have been an interested worker in the world. In the future I shall be engaged, just as devotedly, in a more important work in your behalf. I came into the world to redeem you; I go to prepare an abiding place for you in My Father’s kingdom.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 204, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 204, 1903, par. 6
We will all try to answer correctly the lesson given by the parable of the unjust steward who showed, in one sense, a wise calculation that all should learn from, in administering his master’s estate, to make the best possible security for himself in the future, thus becoming an example to others. How much property is being wasted in outward show, in speculations, and in buildings which testify nothing to the glory of God, when if that money was put into circulation to accomplish the work of God in this world, human minds would be enlightened to make provision for the future, eternal home in the mansions Christ has gone to prepare. He said to His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ... If I go, ... I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1, 3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 8, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 8, 1904, par. 7
We are not left to think that only this world is our home. Just before His crucifixion Christ said: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me.” [John 14:1.] He spoke these words to His disciples. They were troubled, because they thought that their Master was about to leave them. Christ had told them that He would be taken by wicked hands and crucified. Their hearts were filled with sorrow, and in His love for them, Christ overlooked His own agony and sought to relieve their burdened hearts by telling them of His purpose concerning them and of His final return:19LtMs, Ms 8, 1904, par. 8
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [Verses 1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 167, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 7
I shall be seventy-seven years old next November. I have waited a good while for the Saviour’s coming, but I shall wait until I see the King in His beauty. I shall not give up the hope, because He said He would come. “Let not your heart be troubled.” That is what we are looking for. “I will come again. I will receive you unto Myself, that where I am there ye may be.” [John 14:1, 3.] And this is why we are Adventists. Well, what makes you keep the Sabbath day? Why don’t you keep the day that all the rest of the world keeps? Have you studied your Bible to see what is the very day that God has said that you should observe? You read in the twentieth chapter of Exodus where the law is given.Heaven
Chapter 6—Our Eternal Inheritance
Hvn 55.3
Title to the Kingdom—We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn up more strictly according to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God’s people a right to the heavenly mansions. “Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says: “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3)—Letter 144, 1903 quoted in This Day With God, 202.Our Father Cares
He Shall Reign Forever, December 2
OFC 348.4
When the Saviour was about to be separated from His disciples, He comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that He would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.... In my Father’s house are many mansions.... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” John 14:1-3....Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 41—Homeward Bound
8T 254.2
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3.Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 4—Remarriage of Widows and Widowers
TSB 32.1
One thing is certain: You know that He whom you have served for many years will be to you a safe Counsellor. Rest your case with Him who never makes a mistake. Our time now, both yours and mine, is short, and we need to be ripening for the future immortal life. Christ says, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” [John 14:1-3]. Let us rejoice in this, and take on just as few worries as possible.That I May Know Him
An Abiding Place for You, December 23
TMK 363.1
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:1-3.The Great Controversy
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC 301.1
When the Saviour was about to be separated from His disciples, He comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that He would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.... In My Father’s house are many mansions.... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:1-3. “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him.” “Then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory: and before Him shall be gathered all nations.” Matthew 25:31, 32.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC88 301.1
When the Saviour was about to be separated from his disciples, he comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that he would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.” “In my Father’s house are many mansions.” “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” [John 14:1-3.] “The Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him. Then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory, and before him shall be gathered all nations.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.]The Retirement Years
Counsel to Joseph Hare, Sr.
RY 111.2
One thing is certain: You know that He whom you have served for many years will be to you a safe Counselor. Rest your case with Him who never makes a mistake. Our time now, both yours and mine, is short, and we need to be ripening for the future immortal life. Christ says, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” [John 14:1-3]. Let us rejoice in this, and take on just as few worries as possible.The Story of Jesus
Chapter 30—Coming Again
SJ 173.2
“Let not your heart be troubled,” He said. “In My Father’s house are many mansions: ... I go to prepare a place for you, And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3.The Upward Look
Blessed Assurance, November 2
UL 320.2
We have but one life to live, and through our daily connection with God we have, in and through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ, a constant sustenance in doing the things that will represent Christ to the world. We may not have all the conveniences that some have in ease and comfort and in earthly goods, but we have the blessed assurance which Christ gave to His believing disciples.... To them He said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3)....This Day With God
Blessings Without Number, February 5
TDG 44.2
Be of good courage, my sister. A little longer, and we shall see Jesus. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said to His disciples: “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3).Heaven
Chapter 17—It Will Not Be Long
Hvn 163.3
Sure Is the Promise—“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3.This Day With God
Matchless Love, July 12
TDG 202.4
We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn up more strictly according to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God’s people a right to the heavenly mansions. “Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says: “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (chap. 14:1-3)....Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Preparation for the Judgment (Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White June 27, 1886, Orebro, Sweden.)
1SAT 31.2
We cannot wait until the judgment before we consent to deny self and to lift the cross. We cannot then form characters for heaven. It is here in this life that we must take sides with the humble, self-denying Redeemer. It is here that we must overcome envy, strife, selfishness, love of money, and love of the world. It is here that we must enter the school of Christ, and learn of the Master the precious lessons of meekness and lowliness of mind. And here it must be our aim and earnest effort to be loyal and true to the God of heaven by obeying all of His commandments and thus be fitting up for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for all who love God. Christ says, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me: In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you... that where I am, there ye may be also” [John 14:1-3]. Now the mansions are being fitted up in heaven. Are we being fitted with pure elevated holy characters for those mansions?From Trials to Triumph
No “Wall” Between Jews and Gentiles
TT 14.1
“Let not your heart be troubled,” He said. “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3. When I go away I shall still work earnestly for you. I go to My Father and yours to cooperate with Him in your behalf.With God at Dawn
God’s Dwelling Future Home of the Saved, December 12
WGD 348.1
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:1-3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 80, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 37
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 6a, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 6a, 1886, par. 19
He was despised and rejected of men. Those He came to save could not see in Him anything that they should desire in Him. Should He come into our world today without earthly honor or princely power, who would receive Him as the King of glory, the Majesty of heaven? How many proud church members would be so ashamed of Jesus and the reproach that would be likely to be attached to them, should they accept Him, that they would refuse to follow Him? Oh, what love, what matchless love has been displayed by the Son of Man! And all this the Son of God endured, that He might bring many sons and daughters to glory. Who is willing today to be on the Lord’s side? We cannot wait until the judgment before we consent to deny self and to lift the cross. We cannot then form characters for heaven. It is here in this life that we must take sides with the humble, self-denying Redeemer. It is here that we must overcome envy, strife, selfishness, love of money, and love of the world. It is here that we must enter the school of Christ and learn of the Master the precious lessons of meekness and lowliness of mind. And here it must be our aim and earnest effort to be loyal and true to the God of heaven by obeying all of His commandments and thus be fitting up for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for all who love God. Christ says, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me: In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you ... that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] Now the mansions are being fitted up in heaven. Are we being fitted with pure, elevated, holy characters for those mansions?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 52, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 58
How distinctly are the words of Christ brought home to their minds. “Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1, 2, 3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 85, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 85, 1893, par. 20
(John 14:1-3): “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am there ye may be also.” I bore a decided testimony that we were Seventh-day Adventists, and then presented the truth in decided testimony, and hearts were deeply moved.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 67, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 67, 1893, par. 10
But the Chief Shepherd, whose sheep we are, knoweth every one of us. He hath weighed every burden, and no one knoweth the weight. Let no one feel that they have no sympathy. You have the tenderest, most loving sympathy. Christ is acquainted with all our infirmities and wants our confidence. “Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.” [Psalm 42:5.] Listen to His precious words to His disciples as He was about to leave them: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] What a blessed subject for our contemplation.In Heavenly Places
Children of the Heavenly King, December 13
HP 354.1
In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:2, 3.HP 354.4
Praise the Lord, oh, my soul! He says He has gone to prepare mansions for me: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 129, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 129, 1894, par. 2
We were invited to speak in a roomy chamber of Mr. Thomson’s store. There was a large, broad veranda running on two sides of his house. It was quite warm, and I found myself on the piazza alone, and a congregation waiting for me. I think one hundred could be accommodated on the balcony. We had not a large congregation, but I had perfect freedom in speaking from John 14:1-3. This meeting is to be the beginning of a series of meetings. We hope and pray that the Lord will work in this region. It is a most beautiful location amid orange and lemon groves, preach orchards, apricot and apple orchards.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 24, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 24, 1895, par. 8
If we were perfect, we would not need a Saviour, a Redeemer to rescue us from the slavery of Satan. But if we have sinned, let us rejoice with Peter when he recovered himself from his fall. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” [Verses 3-5.] Therefore, our Saviour’s voice echoes back from the clouds as He ascended to heaven: “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 45, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 45, 1896, par. 4
But Jesus, the shepherd of the sheep, does not consider His own suffering and human and divine agony. He says, “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.] He knew that their faith would be sorely tried, and that Peter would deny Him. All would forsake Him. But listen to His words—choice, yes, more choice than the most precious pearls. “In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you, I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” [Verses 2, 3.] “If it were not so I would have told you,” is the assurance, the healing of every doubt that we are cast off, or forgotten. No, no; never never dishonor my precious Saviour by doubting His love. Have faith, talk faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 47, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 47, 1896, par. 1
You have had several letters from me. Have they encouraged you? Have they taken your mind away from yourself to Jesus? Christ is the light of the world. “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 38, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 38, 1897, par. 6
Throughout His whole discourse, Christ had made no mournful allusion to His own sufferings and death. The shepherd knows He will be smitten, that the rod lifted in His Father’s hand, will fall heavily upon Him because of the law transgressed. But Christ thinks only of His disciples. His heart of tenderest love is ever seeking to cheer them. He must prepare them for the absence of His bodily presence. “Let not your heart be troubled,” he said, “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] He alludes to their scattering and forsaking Him at the very time when He most needs their sympathy and prayers. But He does not allow this thought of sadness to leave a depressing gloom upon them. He adds, “But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.” [Matthew 26:32.]Life Sketches of Ellen G. White
Consecration, Courage, Confidence
LS 293.3
“Jesus has gone to prepare mansions for us. He said: ‘Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.’ John 14:1-3. It is these mansions that I am looking to; it is not the earthly mansions here, for erelong they are to be shaken down by the mighty earthquake; but those heavenly mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for the faithful.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 70, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 70, 1898, par. 2
One thing is certain: You know that He whom you have served for many years will be to you a safe Counsellor. Rest your case with Him who never makes a mistake. Our time now, both yours and mine, is short, and we need to be ripening for the future immortal life. Christ says, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] Let us rejoice in this and take on just as few worries as possible.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 192, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 192, 1899, par. 4
Sabbath was cloudy and showers came. There was a smaller company because of the threatening of rain. I spoke from (John 14:1-3), from (Acts 1:4, 11), and Acts 2:1-7. Those present listened with earnest interest. There were a goodly number not of our faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 51, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 51, 1901, par. 19
“Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 929—Words of Encouragement
12MR 35.1
If we were perfect, we would not need a Saviour, a Redeemer to rescue us from the slavery of Satan. But if we have sinned, let us rejoice with Peter when he recovered himself from his fall. [1 Peter 1:3-5 quoted.] Therefore, our Saviour’s voice echoes back from the clouds as He ascended to heaven, “Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself that where I am there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 147, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, par. 10
We breathe because God takes charge of the human machinery. Day by day He keeps it in working order, and He wants us to think of the infinite sacrifice He has made for us in suffering with One equal with Himself,—His only begotten Son. He consented to let Him come to a world all seared and marred with the curse of sin, to stand at the head of humanity as a sin-bearing, sin-pardoning Saviour. God has pledged Himself to receive sinners; for 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.] Everlasting life,—this is what we want. Shall we be satisfied to live in this poor world without a hope of a better life? God forbid! Let us lay hold of the power that has been provided for us to make it possible for us to gain eternal life. Let us take hold of the blessings heaven has given us that we may fit ourselves for the higher grade, fit ourselves for the mansions which Christ is preparing for us. He said, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 89, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 89, 1902, par. 2
The home must be chosen with a view to the aid it will be in fitting the members of the family for the home that Christ has gone to prepare for His children, the home of which He says, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 144, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 144, 1903, par. 13
We must carefully guard the health of mind and body. We are not to take upon ourselves burdens that will unfit us for service or that will spoil the fulness of our joy in Christ. We are to be conformed to His image. He loves us, and He will help us. We are to be passive in His hands. We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn out more strictly according to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God’s people a right to the heavenly mansions. “Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 264, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 264, 1903, par. 19
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 71, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 54
Our Master has gone from us, but He has left with us the comforting words, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] Christ is preparing a place for us, and our work is to prepare for an entrance to the heavenly mansions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 70, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 70, 1903, par. 33
Our homes will be filled with sunshine and happiness, if we choose to invite the Saviour to dwell with us. And to those who make Him their counselor and guide in this life, He has promised a beautiful home in the new earth. This promise was given to His disciples just prior to His crucifixion. He knew of the sufferings through which He was about to pass. He realized that soon He must leave those whom He loved; but He did not allow His mind to brood over these matters. He directed the minds of His disciples to the life beyond. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 153, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 44
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] Thank God. I want to praise Him every time I read these words. Then let us be determined that we will understand what the will of the Lord is concerning us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 301, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, par. 5
On Sunday I dwelt especially on the words of Christ, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 275, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, par. 2
Yesterday an all-day grove meeting was held on the school grounds. In the morning short talks were given by several of the workers, and in the afternoon I spoke from the words, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 31, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, par. 11
“Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 83, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 83, 1904, par. 5
Every capability and power that we possess is to be regarded as a sacred trust, to be used in revealing the power of saving grace. Let there be day by day a well-doing for God. Thus we shall prepare for a place in the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. “Let not your hearts be troubled,” He said, “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] These mansions He is preparing for those who accept the invitation, “Come unto Me, ... and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] This is the highest science that we can possibly obtain, but those who refuse Christ will never understand it. The Word of God, studied and obeyed, fits men and women for entrance into the higher courts. Those who are striving to be true Christians have the constant guardianship of heavenly angels; for they are laborers together with God, working to glorify Him in the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 57, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 57, 1905, par. 1
I am very glad to hear that you are improving in health. I should be very much pleased to meet you again. I am now in my seventy-eighth year. My brain is still active, and my health is good for one of my age. During my recent travels, the Lord kept and preserved me from accident and harm. He would have us look to Him in all our trails and afflictions. Be of good courage, my sister. A little longer, and we shall see Jesus. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said to His disciples, “ye believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 189, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 189, 1905, par. 12
Now I see that Brother Corliss is looking very anxious. He would be glad to do all this work, but if God has given you the privilege, Brother Corliss, go out where you may feel an interest to go out, God will help you. I want to say, brethren and sisters, we want the healing power of God under the Holy Spirit’s influence. We need the healing power of God. I know those that have been working hard all their lives, like Elder Loughborough, have a little home, and he almost wanted to make an apology for it. I find Brother Corliss living in a barn, until he can get means to get a little house. We do not oppose that, Brother Corliss. We do not oppose Brother Loughborough for being here. They are the old hands that have helped with their means and with their physical strength and with their mental powers, and we want to say to you, “Let not your heart be troubled—may be also.” John 14:1-3.Maranatha
He Shall Reign Forever, January 13
Mar 21.4
When the Saviour was about to be separated from His disciples, He comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that He would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.... In my Father’s house are many mansions.... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” John 14:1-3....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 56, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, par. 3
“Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto Myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79a, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 38
This is a good school for children if you make it so; but if you do not make it so, why then it is worse than if they had not been here. We want to be in a position where we will honor and glorify God every day. Why are we here? What have we this institution for? To bring relief to the sick. This is according to our mission and just the work which should be carried on and the Lord wants every one of us to be in working order. And if we will come under discipline to God we will be as happy a people as you will wish to see. Why? We see the devil working on one side, and that is his side, and he can bring the most entrancing things of heaven that he is acquainted with. He brings these things into his work, but we can have a great deal more knowledge in these things than we possess and we can be the happiest people of any in the world. And right in this institution we can be continually at work on the right side. And do not let us look on the dark side. If you have children, here is a good place for you to learn how to bring them up and how to teach them and how to guide them. You can do this right here. But that is not enough. There are other places and other towns. We have seen these places being worked and we have felt thankful for it and we expect there is a work being done more or less, all around. What you want every one of you and every one of us is to keep the Saviour in view. Jesus told His disciples just before He left them, not to mourn about it, but he said “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 39
Well, now He tells them just what He is going to do. We want to say we are a people now that have to have a religious experience for ourselves, and we can never enter heaven unless we have that experience. We may have our names on the church books, but have we a daily experience in the things of God? “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God believe also in me.” [Verse 1.] And thus He comforts and encourages them with the cross right in view.Our Father Cares
Matchless Love, September 16
OFC 271.4
We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn up more strictly according to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God’s people a right to the heavenly mansions. “Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says: “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (chap. 14:1-3)....Our Father Cares
We Have the Blessed Assurance, October 27
OFC 312.2
We have but one life to live, and through our daily connection with God we have, in and through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ, a constant sustenance in doing the things that will represent Christ to the world. We may not have all the conveniences that some have in ease and comfort and in earthly goods, but we have the blessed assurance which Christ gave to His believing disciples.... To them He said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:1-3)....John 14:1-4
Manuscript Release No 1033
Washington, D. C., Monday, December 22, 1890
MR1033 48.5
In the evening I walked to the place of meeting and spoke in a large hall to about 100 people. Oh, how my heart yearns to see the people of God coming up to their high calling! I greatly desire that we should have an increase of faith and stand as valiant soldiers of Jesus Christ. I spoke from John 14:1-4.—Manuscript 53, 1890, 3-5 (Diary 16, pp. 415, 417).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 142, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, par. 2
I was so thankful, the Lord Jesus in the night season seemed close to me, and said, in most impressive words: “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you: I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 21, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 21, 1889, par. 54
I spoke to the people at half past two p.m. There was a large congregation of Sabbathkeepers, and quite a representation of those from the city not of our faith. My text was John 14:1-4.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 227, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 227, 1905, par. 7
“Let not your heart be troubled,” the Saviour said to His disciples; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And whither I go, ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.]John 14:1-5
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 27
What every one of us needs is to keep the Saviour in view. He said to His disciples, instead of mourning at what was before them, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that were I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 28
He had been telling them about it and just what He was going to do, and yet the unbelieving disciples said, “We know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way?” [Verse 5.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 30
“Let not your hearts be troubled,” He said. [Verse 1.] He would comfort and encourage His disciples with the cross right before Him.John 14:1-6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 13, 1892
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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 236, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 236, 1903, par. 12
Selfish indulgence brings only present gratification. But if you will give your heart to the Lord Jesus, He will make you one of His little children. And why should [you] not make it the great business of your life to honor the Omnipotent One, He who keeps life and breath in your body? Honor Him who “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.] Why should you remain away from Him who is preparing a heaven for you, if you will only prepare for that heaven? Why should you choose momentary pleasures, a few earthly indulgences, and neglect to secure eternal life in the kingdom of heaven? Christ declared, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.]18LtMs, Lt 236, 1903, par. 14
How can human beings for whom He has done so much refuse to heed His call? He left this world that He might go and prepare a place for His people. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said just before He left His disciples, “neither let it be afraid. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto Myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” [Verses 1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 290, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 290, 1906, par. 1
I have read your letters once, but shall read them again. I have no light concerning your removal from your present position. When the Lord raises up a man to stand by your side to share your responsibilities, then it will be consistent for you to share your burdens with him. But do not worry. Let the Lord indicate your duty. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” [John 14:1-3.]21LtMs, Lt 290, 1906, par. 4
The very best evidence that we have that Christ is the Son of God is our personal experience. That which our heart has felt, which confirms the inspired Word of God, makes our experience a living reality; and let not Satan in any way allure the mind or confuse the spiritual knowledge. We have Christ. We are not taught this evidence of man, but of the Lord Jesus Himself. He said to His disciples and mother, “Whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto Him, Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way?” [John 14:4, 5.] Here unbelief comes in.21LtMs, Lt 290, 1906, par. 9
“I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] What would be the use of a way direct and sure in its course to glory, if no light of truth shone upon that path that travellers should desire it? What would be the use of truth shining on the way if there was no life in the persons that walked in the way, in the pilgrims’ journey from the earthly to the heavenly? But having the statement of Christ, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” all who believe in Jesus, the Leader, may in confidence walk heavenward, sure that we are in the path outlined in the Word as the Way. There is safety in following this way of which it is stated, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” Christ is the foundation of all spiritual life. As in God we live and move and have our being, we have our natural life through Christ in God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 8, 1914
25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, par. 11
In His great prayer, Jesus said, referring to His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Christ is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] And as many as receive Him, to them gives He “power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] To believe on Christ is to depend upon Him, to accept Him as a gift from God.25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, par. 12
I have an abiding heart-felt trust in Him who comforted His disciples with the promise. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 313, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 313, 1905, par. 5
As He saw their sorrow, He pitied them. He tried to enlighten their understanding. He had no words of grief to express to them in regard to the future ignominy and sorrow that was before Him. His only effort was to strengthen His disciples for the terrible test and trial that was before them. His heart was filled with sorrow for them. To them He said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto Him, Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” [John 14:1-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 155, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 155, 1907, par. 10
This morning I was invited to speak to the patients and to the family. We had a little company. I opened the meeting with prayer after a hymn was sung. The Lord gave me freedom in prayer and then I spoke to those present about twenty minutes, and the Lord gave me freedom. I had words that the Lord gave me to speak. John 14:1-6 quoted. This discourse is reported by Dores Robinson.John 14:1-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 128, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 128, 1897, par. 14
Christ represented His Father to the world, and He represents before God the chosen ones in whom He has restored the moral image of God. They are His heritage. To them He says, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” “No man knoweth the Father save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.” [John 14:9; Matthew 11:27.] No priest, no religionist, can reveal the Father to any son or daughter of Adam. Men have only one Advocate, one Intercessor, who is able to pardon transgression. Shall not our hearts swell with gratitude to Him who gave Jesus to be the propitiation for our sins? Think deeply upon the love the Father has manifested in our behalf, the love that He has expressed for us. We cannot measure this love. Measurement there is none. We can only point to Calvary, to the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. It is an infinite sacrifice. Can we comprehend and measure infinity?12LtMs, Ms 128, 1897, par. 32
Christ’s life on this earth had been a life of toil, a busy, earnest life. He rose from the dead to become familiar with His disciples preparatory to His ascension, when He should be glorified before the heavenly universe. He was ready for the leavetaking. He had authenticated the fact that He was a living Saviour; His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb of Joseph. They could think of Him as glorified amid the heavenly host. “Let not your hearts by troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so I would have told you; I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 240, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 240, 1903, par. 11
“Philip saith unto Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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.” [John 14:1-9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 127, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 127, 1905, par. 4
“Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ said; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto Him, Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him. Philip saith unto Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou, Show us the Father.” [John 14:1-9.] Christ has given us all the instruction that it is essential for us to have. The Lord did not inspire Dr. Kellogg to write Living Temple. This book, if received, will occupy time and attention that ought to be given to a close study of the Bible. God did not inspire the writing of this book, nor order it. It is misleading, diverting the mind from the words of Christ to the fallacies of human production.John 14:1-10
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Christ’s Revelation of God to the Disciples
8T 266.5
“Lord, show us the Father,” said Philip, “and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.” John 14:1-10.The Ministry of Healing
Revealed to the Disciples
MH 420.1
“Lord, show us the Father,” said Philip, “and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.” John 14:1-10.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Christ’s Revelation of God to the Disciples
3TT 264.7
“Lord, show us the Father,” said Philip, “and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.” John 14:1-10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 110, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 110, 1905, par. 1
“Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]20LtMs, Ms 110, 1905, par. 3
“And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto Him, Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way. Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” [John 14:4-6.]20LtMs, Ms 110, 1905, par. 5
“If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also and from henceforth ye know Him, and have seen Him. Philip saith unto Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father.” [Verses 7-9.] Christ was “the express image” of His Father’s person. [Hebrews 1:3.]20LtMs, Ms 110, 1905, par. 6
“Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you, I speak not of Myself; but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.” [John 14:10.]John 14:1-11
Conflict and Courage
A Slow Student, November 10
CC 320.1
Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? John 14:9.CC 320.2
At the head of one of the groups into which the apostles are divided stands the name of Philip. He was the first disciple to whom Jesus addressed the distinct command, “Follow me.” ... He had listened to the teaching of John the Baptist, and had heard his announcement of Christ as the Lamb of God. Philip was a sincere seeker for truth, but he was slow of heart to believe.... Though Christ had been proclaimed by the voice from heaven as the Son of God, to Philip He was “Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45). Again, when the five thousand were fed, Philip’s lack of faith was shown. It was to test him that Jesus questioned, “Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” ... Again, in those last hours before the crucifixion, the words of Philip were such as to discourage faith.... So slow of heart, so weak in faith, was that disciple who for three years had been with Jesus.20The Desire of Ages, 292, 293.CC 320.3
He wished Christ to reveal the Father in bodily form; but in Christ God had already revealed Himself. Is it possible, Christ said, that after walking with Me, hearing My words, seeing the miracle of feeding the five thousand, of healing the sick of the dread disease leprosy, of bringing the dead to life, of raising Lazarus, who was a prey to death, whose body had indeed seen corruption, you do not know Me? Is it possible that you do not discern the Father in the works that He does by Me? ... God cannot be seen in external form by any human being. Christ alone can represent the Father to humanity.21The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 5:1141, 1142.CC 320.4
In happy contrast to Philip’s unbelief was the childlike trust of Nathanael. He was a man of intensely earnest nature, one whose faith took hold upon unseen realities. Yet Philip was a student in the school of Christ, and the divine Teacher bore patiently with his unbelief and dullness. When the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples, Philip became a teacher after the divine order. He knew whereof he spoke, and he taught with an assurance that carried conviction to the hearers.22The Desire of Ages, 293.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 23, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 12
Jesus always disclaimed independence. He came not to do His own will, but the will of Him that sent Him. “I came down from heaven,” He said, “not to do my own will, but the will of him that sent me.” [John 6:38.] “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me he doeth the works. Believe me that that I am in the Father and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works sake.” [John 14:10, 11.]13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 17
Christ waited and lived and moved in dependence upon God. In His actions He was one with the Father. His plans were devised before the foundation of the world in council with the Father. In everything He moved in perfect harmony with God. In response to the words of Philip, “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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: and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.” [John 14:8-10.]13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 20
The fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth chapters of John are rich in promises, and are calculated to be of inestimable value to the disciples in their future work. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, who is so plainly revealed in the Old Testament Scriptures, believe [also] in me as the brightness of his glory, the manifestation of his character. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I would not deceive you, I go to prepare a place for you, to secure for you the right to a home in my Father’s kingdom. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also. I left the royal courts of heaven to come to you, to show you the way. And if I have come to the earth for your sake, I will be with you in the mansions I have prepared. Let not sorrow fill your hearts, because I love you; and whither I go ye know and the way ye know.” [See John 14:1-4.]13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 21
“Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also. And from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.” [Verses 5-7.] He is the express image of His Father’s person. “In him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Ye are complete in him who is the head of all principality and power.” [Colossians 2:9, 10.]John 14:1-12
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 2—The Training of the Twelve
AA 21.2
He spoke to them also words of hope and courage. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” John 14:1-4. For your sake I came into the world; for you I have been working. When I go away I shall still work earnestly for you. I came to the world to reveal Myself to you, that you might believe. I go to My Father and yours to co-operate with Him in your behalf.AA 22.1
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto My Father.” John 14:12. By this, Christ did not mean that the disciples would make more exalted exertions than He had made, but that their work would have greater magnitude. He did not refer merely to miracle working, but to all that would take place under the agency of the Holy Spirit. “When the Comforter is come,” He said, “whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with Me from the beginning.” John 15:26, 27.John 14:1-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 87, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 87, 1893, par. 33
The fourteenth chapter of John, first three verses, show that Jesus proclaimed His second appearing, and after the ascension of Christ, angels from heaven proclaimed that the same Jesus they had seen ascend into heaven should so come in like manner as they had seen Him go into heaven. We believed in the words spoken by the angels, and the signs of the times foretold that Christ’s advent to our world was nigh, even at the door. This is the explanation why we are Seventh-day Adventists—simply because we believe the Scriptures.John 14:1-14
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 135—To Captain C. Eldridge
1888 1096.3
Sunday afternoon I spoke to a large congregation from John 14:1-14. Again the Lord blessed me with freedom and the people also were blessed. North Fitzroy is five miles from the school building in St. Kilda where we live, and the ride after speaking made me quite weary. I felt more anxiety, however, in regard to the affect of the malaria from the open drains which are not only offensive but dangerous to health and life. Monday evening in the school building I met with the little church of Prahran. I prayed with them and spoke with freedom from the words. “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.” Then we had a prayer and social meeting in which precious testimonies were borne by nearly all present. Tuesday evening I again attended a meeting in the same place. Willie had very interesting matter to present from Elder Reed, in regard to the missionary work in the Pacific Islands. These meetings are profitable; light is shining upon us, but we want more and still more of the blessing of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 20a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 20a, 1893, par. 3
Sunday afternoon I spoke to a large congregation from John 14:1-14. Again the Lord blessed me with freedom and the people were also blessed.John 14:1-16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 28, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 4
Just before Christ left His disciples, anticipating the trial and disappointment they would meet because of their belief that He was going to reign on the throne of David as Israel’s king, He told them of what He was to endure, and entreated them not to be troubled. He knew how sore their disappointment would be as they saw Him suffering insult and mockery as He stepped lower and lower in the path of humiliation. He thought of His disciples, not of Himself. Would the trial be too great for them? He sought to comfort them by speaking words of hope and courage. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” [John 14:1, 2.] What a comfort these words should be to us. Think of the work Christ is now doing in heaven—preparing mansions for His children. He wants us to prepare to dwell in these mansions. This we can do by co-operating with Him. If we form characters after the divine similitude, we shall inherit the mansions Christ is preparing.16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 5
“And if I go and prepare a place for you,” He continues, “I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [Verse 3.]16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 13
Christ continues, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” Thomas, always inclined to unbelief, though loving his Saviour, said doubtfully, “Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?” [John 14:3-5.]16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 14
Are there any here who like Thomas do not know the way? Listen to the Saviour’s words. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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, and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me; or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also.” Thus we become laborers together with God. “And greater works than these shall he do, because I go to my Father.” [Verses 6-12.] What is Christ doing in heaven? He is interceding for us. By His work the threshold of heaven is flushed with the glory of God which will shine upon every soul who will open the windows of the soul heavenward. As the prayers of the sincere and contrite ones ascend to heaven, Christ says to the Father, “I will take their sins. Let them stand before You innocent.” As He takes their sins from them, He fills their hearts with the glorious light of truth and love.16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 15
Christ loves us with a love that no language can express, no balances measure. His love is beyond comparison. He desires us to love perishing human beings as He has loved us. He wants us to be missionaries for Him. We are to do all in our power to relieve suffering and misery. If we can do no more than speak a word of cheer, let us do that. Christ will co-operate with us. He says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [Verse 13.]16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, par. 16
“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” [Verses 15, 16.] That Comforter is with us today. Letters come to me in which the writers ask me to pray for them. But Christ is praying for them. All they need is to carry their soul-distress to Jesus. He says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] This is what I try to write to them. I tell them not to go to any human being for the help that Christ alone can give. He says, “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.] These words are spoken to you. When you fall into perplexity, read this promise, and talk with God. Tell Him about your troubles and difficulties. He will never tell you that you are foolish for not understanding better. The Word declares, “If any one of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.]John 14:1-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 146, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 146, 1903, par. 19
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] What precious words these are to speak to aged men such as those in the Veterans’ Home! What hope and joy may thus be brought into their lives! We have a message that they need, O so much. We have not a moment to lose. Let us with all tenderness persuade them to come to the Saviour. Jesus is seeking through us, His agencies, to draw them into the fold. Let us tell them—these old men, who one by one are going down into the grave—that Christ has given us a message for them. Let us tell them that as soon as they receive Christ as their Saviour, the privileges of sonship are theirs. They are children of God. “If children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.” [Romans 8:17.] Tell them that Christ wants them to be subjects of his kingdom. He says, “Because I live, ye shall live also.” [John 14:19.] The kingdom was prepared for them before the foundation of the world. It is the Father’s good pleasure to give the kingdom to all who love Him and keep His commandments. He will keep them by His power if they will give their hearts to Him. If they will come to Him, they will find rest in a Saviour’s love.John 14:1-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 11, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 11, 1911, par. 21
I am thankful for the comfort we have in the Word of God. “Let not your heart be troubled,” the Saviour says, “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” [John 14:1, 2.]25LtMs, Ms 11, 1911, par. 27
“I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in My Father, and ye in Me, and I in you. He that hath My commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father; and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him.” [Verses 3-21.]John 14:1-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 25, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 25, 1897, par. 15
Those words greatly offended His disciples, but He did not soften down His symbolical representation. All who desired could trace out the truths concerning His person and His office. He told them that His words would be understood after His crucifixion, His resurrection, and ascension. “The Holy Spirit will bring all things to your remembrance that I have spoken unto you.” [See John 14:26.] All who had heard and believed in Him would not turn away from Him, but would prepare their hearts to receive Him.12LtMs, Ms 25, 1897, par. 27
Christ foresaw that in the hour of temptation every one of His beloved disciples would be severely tested. He said to them, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. ... And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]John 14:1-27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 49a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 49a, 1897, par. 14
God designs that the sick, the unfortunate, those possessed with evil spirits, shall hear His voice through us. Through His human agents He desires to be a Comforter such as the world has never before seen. His words are to be voiced by His followers: “Let not your heart be troubled: neither let it be afraid.” “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:27, 1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 96, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 96, 1897, par. 1
You are dear to the heart of God. He loves you and will not leave you to perish. I know His everlasting arms are beneath thee. Am writing letter for you. John 14:1, 27, 18; Hebrews 2:17, 18; Ephesians 2:4-6; 1 John 1:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 49, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 49, 1897, par. 16
God designs that the sick, the unfortunate, those possessed of evil spirits, shall hear His voice through us. Through His human agencies He desires to be a Comforter such as the world has never before seen. His words are to be voiced, “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:27, 1.] The Lord has not given us the work of reasoning out the things that we do not comprehend until we are satisfied. We must take the Word as it reads. We are not to institute schools of scholastic philosophy or for the so-called “higher education.”The Ministry of Healing
God’s Promises
MH 123.6
“Let not your heart be troubled.” “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:1, 27.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 35, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 35, 1897, par. 20
“Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father; and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me; and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [John 14:19-21.] Christ does indeed manifest Himself unto the believers who thus reveal their faith by coming together at the communion table with the simplicity of children to remember Jesus, His words, and His requirements, determined to exclude from the heart all selfishness and love of supremacy.12LtMs, Ms 35, 1897, par. 22
We do not come to the ordinances of the Lord’s house merely as a form. We do not make it our business as we gather around the table of our Lord to ponder over and depreciate our short comings. The ordinance of feet washing embraced all this. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [Verse 26.] We do not come with our minds diverted to our past experience in the religious life, whether that experience be elevating or depressing. We do not come to revive in our minds the ill treatment we have received at the hands of our brethren.12LtMs, Ms 35, 1897, par. 23
The ordinance of humility was to clear our moral horizon of the rubbish that has been permitted to accumulate. We have assembled now to meet with Jesus Christ, to commune with Him. Every heart is to be open to the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Our minds and hearts are to be fixed on Christ as the great Center, on whom our hopes of eternal life depend. We are not to stand in the shadow, but in the saving light of the cross. With hearts cleansed by His most precious blood, and in full consciousness of His presence, although unseen, we may listen to His voice that thrills the soul with the words, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” [Verse 27.] On these occasions, heaven is brought very near to the true members of the Lord’s family, and they are brought into sweet communion one with another.12LtMs, Ms 35, 1897, par. 29
The second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven is ever to be kept before us. Almost His last words of consolation to His disciples were, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 11, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 16
The law of God is the great moral standard of righteousness. This the apostle declares is holy, just, and good. [Romans 7:12.] David says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] Christ says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [John 15:7.] “He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me; and he that loveth me, shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [John 14:21.] This is most assuredly the witness of the Spirit. “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit, so shall ye be by disciples.” “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments (from the heart), ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:8-10.]12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 22
Says Christ, “If a man love me, he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” [John 14:23.] Do you believe Christ tells the truth? If you do, talk faith, talk hope, talk courage. What shall we say to you who are periodically doubters and grumblers? Indigestion is a trial, but do not make it worse by quarrelling with circumstances. Get your Bibles and hymn-books, and read and sing and pray, and go to work to help some poor soul who is in bodily suffering or despondency of soul. Pray in faith for the Lord to help both him and you. Do not, as you try to recover, put on a dismal, mourning attitude, as though prison walls enclose you and shut out every ray of sunlight. Pray short, easy prayers full of words of promise, and you will find yourselves out of the darkness into the light.12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 28
We are heaven-bound. Then why should we not show the attractive part of our faith? Why should we go as a crippled band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the journey to our Father’s house? Just before He left, He said to His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” “Ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you; and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:27, 1-3.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1506—Stay Away From Political Strife; The Fruit of True Conversion
21MR 22.5
“He that hath My commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him” [John 14:21]. This is most assuredly the witness of the Spirit. “Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples.” “As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments [from the heart], ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love” [John 15:8-10].21MR 24.1
Discouraged doubters, how can you expect to find your heart glowing with the love of Christ; how can you expect His joy to remain in you and your joy to be full, while you are meditating and feeding upon your own imperfect characters? Says Christ, “If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him” [John 14:23]. Do you believe Christ tells the truth? If you do, talk faith, talk hope, talk courage.21MR 25.4
We are heaven bound. Then why should we not show the attractive part of our faith? Why should we go as a crippled band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the journey to our Father’s house? Just before He left, He said to His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” [John 14:27]. “Ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you, I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” [verses 1-3].John 14:1-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 41, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 1
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 10
The statements made by Christ were saddening to the disciples. They were amazed. But they were followed by the comforting assurance, “Let not your heart be troubled, ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go, ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.] “For your sakes I came into the world. I am working in your behalf. If I go away, I shall still work earnestly for you. I came into the world to reveal myself unto you, that you might believe. I go to my Father and yours, to co-operate with Him.”12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 11
How plain are these words! How simple the language! A child could understand it. But the disciples were perplexed. Thomas, always troubled with doubts, said to Him, “Lord, we know not whither thou goest, and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.” [Verses 5-7.]12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 13
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” [Verse 6.] When the apostle Paul, through the revelation of Christ, was converted from a persecutor to a Christian, he declared that he was as one born out of due time. [1 Corinthians 15:8.] “For me to live is Christ,” he declared. [Philippians 1:21.] This is the most perfect interpretation in a few words in all the Scriptures, of what it means to be a Christian. This is the whole truth of the gospel. Paul understood that which many seem unable to comprehend. How intensely in earnest he was. His words show that his mind was centered on Christ, that his whole life was bound up with his Christ. Christ was the author, the source, and the support of his life.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 14
In the last scenes of this earth’s history, war will rage. There will be pestilence, plague, and famine. The waters of the deep will overflow their boundaries. Property and life will be destroyed by fire and flood. This should show us that the souls for whom Christ died should be fitting up for the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for them. There is a rest from the earth’s conflict. Where is it? “That where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:3.] Heaven is where Christ is. Heaven would not be heaven to those who love Christ if He were not there.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 15
Are we individually fitting up characters which well be meet for the society of Christ and the heavenly angels? Philip said to Christ, “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith to him, 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; how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believe thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the works.” [Verses 8-10.]12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 16
Philip’s doubt was answered with words of reproof. He wished Christ to reveal the Father in bodily form; but in Christ God had already revealed Himself. Is it possible, Christ said, that after walking with me, hearing my words, seeing the miracle of feeding the five thousand, of healing the sick of the dread disease leprosy, of bringing the dead to life, of raising Lazarus, who was a prey to death, whose body had indeed seen corruption, you do not know me? Is it possible that you do not discern the Father in the works that He does by me. Do you not believe that I am to testify of the Father? “How sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” I am the brightness of His glory, the express image of His person. “How sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me; or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” [Verses 9-11.]12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 20
“Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me, or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” [Verse 11.] Their faith might safely rest upon the evidence given by Christ’s works, works that no man had ever done or ever could do. They could reason that humanity alone could not do these wonderful works. Christ was seeking to lead them up from their low state of faith to the experience that they might have received by seeing what He had done in giving a higher education, and in imparting a knowledge of what He was, God in human flesh. How earnestly and perseveringly our compassionate Saviour sought to prepare His followers for the storm of temptation that was soon to beat about them. He would have had them hid with Him in God.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 21
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also, and greater works than these shall he do, because I go to my Father.” [Verse 12.] Christ’s work was largely confined to Judea. But though His personal ministry did not extend to other lands, people from all nations listened to His preaching, and carried the message to all parts of the world. Many heard of Jesus by hearing of the wonderful miracle He performed.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 24
“Greater works than these shall ye do, because I go to my Father.” [Verse 12.] He would then intercede for them, and would send them His own Representative, the Holy Spirit, who would attend them in their work. This Representative would not appear in human form, but by faith would be seen and recognized by all who believe in Christ.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 25
“And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye will ask anything in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [Verses 13-15.] “This is the confidence that we have in him,” writes John, that, “if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us.” [1 John 5:14.]12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 26
These promises are all given on conditions. The Ten Commandments, Thou shalt and Thou shalt not, are ten promises, assured to us if we render obedience to the law governing the universe “if ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] Here is the sum and substance of the law of God. The terms of salvation for every son and daughter of Adam are here outlined.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 33
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him, for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” [John 14:16.] Christ was about to depart to His home in the heavenly courts. But He assured His disciples that He would send them another Comforter, who would abide with them forever. To the guidance of this Comforter all who believe in Christ may implicitly trust. He is the spirit of truth, but this truth the world can neither discern nor receive.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 35
“The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you these things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for the Father is greater than I.” [John 14:26-28.] This positive assurance was given to the disciples, to be given to all who should believe on Him to the close of this earth’s history.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 36
Christ desired His disciples to understand that He would not leave them orphans. “I will not leave you comfortless,” He declared; “I will come unto you. Yet a little while and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me; because I live, ye shall live also.” [Verses 18, 19.] Precious, glorious assurance of eternal life. Even though He was to be absent, their relation to Him was to be that of a child to its parent.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 39
“At that day,” said Christ, “ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” [John 14:20.] Christ sought to impress the minds of the disciples with the distinction between those who are of the world, and those who are of Christ. He was about to die, but He would impress on their minds the fact that He would live again. And although after His ascension He would be absent from them, yet by faith they might know Him and see Him. And He would have the same loving interest in them that He had while with them.12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 41
“He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [Verse 21.] Again Christ repeated the conditions of union with Him. This promise is made to every sincere Christian. Our Saviour speaks so plainly that no one need fail to understand that true love will always produce obedience. The religion of Jesus Christ is love. Obedience is the sign of true love. Christ and the Father are one, and those who in truth receive Christ will love God as the great center of their adoration, and will also love one another.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 3, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 18
Christ, in whom dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, came to our world to reveal truth, to present God to the world in His true character. Would you know God? Look upon His only begotten Son. “He that hath seen me,” Christ said to Philip, “hath seen the Father.” [John 14:9.] Christ saw how that men’s devices and ideas had been interwoven with truth, and He came to rescue it from the rubbish of error, and reset it in the framework of the gospel, presenting the law of God in its original dignity and purity, free from the rubbish of error and the commandments of men. Who could so well cope with superstition and the misinterpretation of the Word of God as He who was the Author of all truth? Who was so well calculated to conquer the power of darkness as He who knew the enemy as an angel fallen. Who could so well rescue the gems of truth, which, through the devices of Satan, had been taken from their rightful place in the framework of the gospel, and made to serve in companionship with error, as He who had given these truths?13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 24
These angel messengers had been commissioned to separate from the company who were escorting [Christ] to heaven, and go and tell the disciples that the same Jesus whom they had loved on earth would come again. Then they remembered the words of Christ, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 26
The disciples were not to fast and mourn after the ascension of Christ, for this was just what the prince of darkness wanted. He desired that they should give to the world the impression that they had been deceived and disappointed, that their expectations had not been realized. Before His ascension Christ had declared, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, ... I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” [John 14:12-16.]13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 27
If by faith they would accept and practice the teachings of Christ, they would have, not a cloud of heaviness and mourning, but the peace of Christ. Said Christ, “The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you: my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice because I said, I go to the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” [Verses 26-28.]John 14:1-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 198, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 1
Let us read John 14:1-3. This is our consolation. Therefore, “Let not your hearts be troubled.” Had their minds not been darkened by the desire for the first places, He would have explained things to them much more fully, but they could not understand, and He said unto them John 16:12.13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 5
It is to those that are doers, and not hearers only, of the words of Christ, that He says, “I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” [John 14:3.] Should not this inspire us with hope?13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 10
Acts 1:10. Why did not they appear as angels? Because the disciples could not have endured the glory of their persons clothed with the light of heaven. It would have extinguished them. And God in mercy sent His messengers in apparel as men. Acts 1:11. And in another place is stated that they returned with great joy. Joy that they are left in a world of such great wickedness? No; but they remembered the precious promise which I have read to you, John 14:1-3.13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 15
What made His disciples rejoice so? They were sure that He would fulfill His promises. They knew that He would not forget them. Isaiah 49:15, 16. Not only is the Lord interested in this world, but the whole universe is absorbed with anxiety and manifests the deepest concern in all our affairs. This disgraceful fall of Adam is to be atoned for here. It is to be proven here that God made no mistake in creating man. Here the Second Adam triumphed over the conqueror of the first Adam. He says, “Satan found nothing in me.” [John 14:30.] No, nothing! In Him was no guile. And by His life we are justified, by His death we are redeemed, and by His resurrection we are raised.13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 18
John 14:12. The power of the whole heavenly host may be yours, that you may use it in drawing men to the well of salvation. The divine nature is imparted to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour. He has promised us all power. And with all power we can overcome the adversary so that we may have an entrance into the city of God. The gates are thrown open, who will enter?John 14:1-31
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 101, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 1
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me.” [John 14:1.] The words were spoken by Christ just before His crucifixion and were among His last to the disciples. He is not at this time thinking of the sufferings that lie before Him, but of His disciples. How will they stand when they have not His personal presence with them? He comforts them with the assurance of His return: “In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” [Verse 2.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 2
Very simple are the words of the Saviour. They cannot be misunderstood or misinterpreted. “And if I go and prepare a place for you,” He continues, “I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” For three years Christ had been educating His disciples in that way; yet Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” [Verses 3-6.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 4
Only He can remedy the injury that was wrought for man by the fall. “If ye had known Me,” He declared, “ye would have known My Father also: and from henceforth ye have known Him, and have seen Him.” [Verse 7.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 5
“Philip saith unto Him, Lord show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father. Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you, I speak not of Myself; but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me; or else believe Me for the very works’ sake.” [Verses 8-11.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 9
The Saviour continued, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do, shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto My Father.” [John 14:12.] It was a path of suffering and temptation by which the Saviour went to His Father, and we may rejoice that He consented to travel such a path. Had He not, how could the world have been saved? By this He made it possible for us to be accepted with God. When we are in doubt and perplexity and difficulty, let us consider what the Son of God passed through, that He might prepare for us a home in the kingdom of heaven. And today He stands by His Father’s throne to minister help to every soul who seeks Him in sincerity for strength to overcome. He waits to bestow on all the power to do His will.23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 11
“If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.” [Verses 15, 16.] Here is the test of our love for God. Parents are to teach their children what these commandments are. We need missionary fervor in our homes, that we may bring the Word of life before the members of our families and lead them to seek a home in the kingdom of God. There will be no sickness there, no sorrow, no death. A life that measures with the life of God will be the reward of all who win that eternal home.23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 12
In view of all that lies before the believer, his piety should be “always abounding.” [1 Corinthians 15:58.] He should labor for souls with all his intelligence and powers. Not for eloquence and honor is he to strive, but for simplicity of life and simplicity of speech. Christ had no need to explain any word that He made use of. All were simple, and all were understood by the most simple. We need to let our faith take hold of Christ, we need to listen to His words, to seek to do His works. We need to take hold of the hope of immortality that will give us life everlasting in the kingdom of glory. To us the promise is, “The works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto My Father.” [John 14:12.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 13
“I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” [Verses 16, 17.] To the worldling the truth is too simple; he deems it unworthy of his attention. He does not see Christ in it. But how thankful should the believer be for these promises. I am thankful for the faith I have in God’s Word. I claim His promises, saying, “You said it, Lord. You asked me to come to You. I come expecting You to help me and bless me.” And He proves the truth and the preciousness of His words, “I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me; because I live ye shall live also. ... He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.” [Verses 18, 19, 21.]23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 14
“If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.” [Verse 23.] Consider the familiar relation Christ here brings to view as existing between the Father and His children. His presence and guardianship is am abiding thing. While we trust in Christ’s saving power, all the arts and wiles of the fallen host can do nothing to harm us. Heavenly angels are constantly with us, guiding and protecting. God has ordained that we shall have His saving power with us, to enable us to do all His will.23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 16
“He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My sayings: and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me. ... Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved Me, ye would rejoice because I said, I go unto the Father; for My Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that when it is come to pass, ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of the world cometh and hath nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave Me commandment, even so I do.” [Verses 24, 27-31.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 14, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 14, 1893, par. 1
John 14:12-18, 19-23. Here is the test, “If a man love me, he will keep my words.” [Verse 23.] Verses 24-26. Here we are told what the Comforter is. Verses 27-30. The Prince of this world apparently gained the best. Verse 31. “But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.” That is, He carried out the whole plan devised in the heavenly courts. Here is “Christ” that paid the ransom. He died for every son and daughter of Adam. He left His royal crown, and laid aside His royal robe, and clothed His divinity with humanity. What would He have [to] gain by His poverty? That you might have life which measures with the life of God. That you might have the mansions which he said he had gone to prepare. John 14:1-3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 97, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 97, 1893, par. 2
To worship God on a common working day upon which He has placed no sanctity, in our ignorance is not sin, but when light comes to us showing us what is truth, we are to give up error and accept the truth. If God plainly states that He requires one thing, and we present to Him another, claiming for ourselves that it makes no difference, we deceive our own souls to our own ruin, for God will not be trifled with. We see that it is essential that we should every one show our colors and stand fully and entirely under our own standard, which is the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. We are not to do just as the world does and think that this is all that is required. We are to adhere strictly to the Scriptures and are under obligation to God and man to present the subject to others just as God has specified. Not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. We do not wish to hide our faith or drop our standard because the world will look upon us with disfavor. The favor of God we should prize highly above gold, yes, above fine gold. We are not to meet the world’s standard, for Christ declares the world knew Him not, and because they knew Him not, they will not know His followers. [John 1:10.] We are Adventists. We believe our Lord is soon coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Said Christ, just before His crucifixion, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3.8LtMs, Lt 97, 1893, par. 5
Sabbath forenoon, October 14, I spoke to the people from (John 14), presenting before them the manifest love of God for all the world, and [how] when we draw nigh to God He always responds and draws nigh to us. Not one takes a step toward Jesus, but He advances toward them. I presented the dangers of a half and half service. This kind of serving God is no satisfaction to our own souls, and in no way pleases Him who hath bought us with His own precious blood. Children as well as the parents should give themselves without reserve to the Lord and He will accept them. The Lord came near to us, our hearts were softened by His Holy Spirit, and it had a subduing influence upon the hearts of all present.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 97, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 1
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 8
Now I read further from the fourteenth chapter:21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 11
“Philip saith unto Him, Show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, 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; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto My Father.” [Verses 4-12.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 27
“Philip saith unto Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip?” [John 14:8, 9.] The quivering lips of Christ testified of His grief because they did not know Him better in this their hour of trial.21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 29
“If ye love Me, keep My commandment. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” [Verses 10-18.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 31
“Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in My Father, and ye in Me, and I in you. He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him.” [Verses 18-21.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 33
Every one of us should have in ourselves a sure and a blessed hope. We should love Jesus Christ according as He has loved us. Then we may go to Him freely, even as children go to their parents to ask them for the things they need. He says, “I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.” [Verse 21.] Do you believe it? You may come to Christ, saying, “Lord, you have said it, and I take You at Your word.”21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 36
“Judas saith unto Him, (not Iscariot) Lord, how is it that Thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father shall send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [Verses 22-26.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 38
“And He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [Verse 26.]21LtMs, Ms 97, 1906, par. 40
Jesus continues, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved Me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for My Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave Me commandment, even so do I. Arise let us go hence.” [Verses 27-31.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 288, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, par. 3
“Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says, “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, par. 4
That which is of greatest importance for us to know is that we are right with God. If we put our trust in the Lord, surrendering our will wholly to His will, He will work out our salvation. He will be our sanctification and righteousness, our frontguard and our rearward. There is comfort for us in the words, “Verily I say unto you, He that believeth in Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go to the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye ask anything in My name, I will do it.” [Verses 12-14.]22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, par. 8
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved Me, ye would rejoice because I said I go unto the Father; for My Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that when it is come to pass ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you; for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave Me commandment, even so I do.” [Verses 15-31.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 44, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 44, 1911, par. 3
I spoke from the first few verses of the [fourteenth] chapter of John, and the message of Christ to His disciples: “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [Verses 1-3.]25LtMs, Lt 44, 1911, par. 4
A few weeks before, I had spoken to the students on the lessons of the fifteenth chapter of John. These two chapters—the 14th and 15th of John—have been impressed frequently upon my mind lately. I addressed the students earnestly, urging upon them the instruction of the Word, and bidding them keep in mind the higher school, to which, if faithful, they will soon be transferred. It is always wise to impress the minds of the youth with a determination to meet the highest standard.Manuscript Release No 1033
South Lancaster, Sunday, October 19, 1890
MR1033 9.5
It is quite foggy. I expected the fog would lift but was disappointed. The rain set in and has continued to pour from the heavens bountifully. I was indisposed, and with the rain pouring down I thought for a moment it might be best for me not to go to the meeting, but I reproved myself for thinking of such a thing as disappointing the people in not filling my appointment. At half-past two I went to the church and found the house well filled, notwithstanding the rain was pouring down. After singing and prayer and singing again I spoke to the people from John 14. The Lord gave me freedom and His blessing.—Manuscript 42, 1890, 5 (Diary 16, pp. 225-226).Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]
MR No. 1196—Evangelism in Norwich, Connecticut, And Lynn, Massachusetts; Concern for Those Who Unsettle Faith in the Testimonies And Misinterpret the Scriptures
16MR 76.1
I have just come from the hall where the little company assemble to worship on the Sabbath. There were about eighty present. I spoke from John 14:15: “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” I had much freedom in speaking, then we had a social meeting and thirty-eight testimonies were borne. The older members did not take the time, but gave opportunity for those who had more recently come to the faith. I was much pleased to see the readiness to bear testimony and to see and feel the good spirit which prevailed. It was indeed a precious season to all our souls. I was just as sure that the presence of Jesus was with us as if I could see Him in person. The Lord blessed His people. There is a goodly number of intelligent, noble-minded souls who have embraced the truth and are made to feel what it means to deny self and lift the cross and follow Jesus.16MR 81.2
I slept last night about ten hours; praise the Lord, praise His holy name! I believe He will give me strength and grace. I am making my home with Sister Ellen Warfe, one of the number, a kind family. We have things here convenient and pleasant. I shall go to Danvers Wednesday. I have been so deeply interested in John 14, 15, 16, 17, that I am writing on the subject. I have written twelve pages today upon John 14, for fear I should have the force of the subject wear away from my mind. This will come in Life of Christ. I have in all forty pages written.Ellen G. White: The Australian Years: 1891-1900 (vol. 4)
Chapter 8—(1893) The New Zealand Camp Meeting
4BIO 79.1
The messages presented at the camp were very practical, she joining the ministers in their work. One morning she spoke on Sabbath observance, at another time on John 14 and the Christian’s heavenly home, then on sanctification and transformation of character. The subject of “dress” was presented, and one evening the subject of the school in Australia was introduced and a call made for means. Ellen White spent thirty minutes recounting the establishment of Battle Creek College. It was a most profitable meeting. At a number of the meetings, only about half of the audience were Adventists.Ellen G. White: The Australian Years: 1891-1900 (vol. 4)
Her Wellington Home
4BIO 92.1
When we drove up to the place of meeting, there were about one dozen in all assembled, but when that carriage drove through the village and it was known I had come, the house was well filled, and ... best of all, we had the heavenly Guest. The Lord gave me words to speak to the people. John 14. I was surprised myself at the words given me.—Ibid.Ellen G. White: The Early Elmshaven Years: 1900-1905 (vol. 5)
With James Edson White in Vicksburg
5BIO 60.3
Sabbath morning she spoke in the new church building on the hill. It was crowded, for believers had come in from quite a distance. Choosing the first verses of John 14 as her text, she portrayed the reward of the faithful. She pictured Christ as a personal Saviour. She urged a careful and firm witness in favor of the truth, not in their own strength but in the strength and grace that God gives.The Review and Herald
July 21, 1891
RH July 21, 1891, par. 2
I was pleased to meet for the first time those who had newly come to the faith here. On Sabbath, at eleven o’clock, I spoke from John 14; and while seeking to feed the flock of God, my own soul was blessed. In the afternoon, Elder Van Horn gave a short discourse, followed by a social meeting. Forty-five testimonies were borne, and the freedom of God’s Spirit was with us. Men and women recently brought to the truth were there as cheerful witnesses for Christ. They are henceforth to be servants of Christ, laborers for God, working with him for others, and fighting the good fight of faith in their own lives.RH July 21, 1891, par. 15
In John 14 Jesus said, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.”EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 14:1
Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 735—Preparing for Heaven
9MR 251.1
Praise the Lord, oh, my soul! He says He has gone to prepare mansions for me. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1).—Manuscript 80, 1886, pp. 5, 6, 8, 9. (Sermon, September 21, 1886.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 12, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 28
While Christ is our officiating priest in the heavenly sanctuary, we may have faith in Jesus Christ. We may repent of our sins, “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.] Every provision has been made for every necessity of our moral and spiritual nature. Truth in Jesus Christ reveals to us “God is love” and that He careth for us. [1 John 4:8; 1 Peter 5:7.] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth those who fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 155, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 155, 1898, par. 1
“Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe on God, believe also on me.” [John 14:1.] We are individually of value with God. He wants to restore the afflicted. Look at the Old Testament history. Here we shall find a clear, beautiful illustration of the way of salvation through faith. The church in the wilderness displeased God by their continual distrust of Him, and their unbelief and murmuring, until for their good the Lord said, I can instruct them only through punishment. He no longer kept the fiery serpents under control. He let them do their will, and their fiery sting was certain death. No cure could be found.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 65b, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 65b, 1898, par. 12
God designs that the sick, the unfortunate, those possessed of evil spirits, shall hear His voice through us. Through His human agents He desires to be a comforter such as the world has never before seen. His words are to be voiced by His followers: “Let not your heart be troubled: Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 189, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 13
Just before He left His people, Christ did not talk of His sufferings, and of what He had to endure and the agony; He did not present that before His disciples; but He told them the bare facts, that He was to be tried and be crucified. But, He said, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me.” [John 14:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 156, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 156, 1904, par. 31
“Ye are,” said Christ, “the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Do you believe it? Where do you gather your light? You gather it from the divine rays of light that shine from our Saviour. He brought life and immortality to light. He proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, I am the Resurrection and the Life. Now, He was raised, that we shall be raised, if we follow after to know Him. We may be laid in the grave, but we shall be brought forth out of the grave when the last trump shall sound. Christ said, Let not your heart be troubled. [John 14:1.] Well, what is the greatest trouble? To think what a big schemer you can be? To think what great advantages you must show to the world? No. You are to guard your brother’s interest as you guard your own, and when you guard your brother’s interest as you guard your own, the heavenly angels guard your interest. And He will provide for you an inheritance with the sanctified and the blessed in the kingdom of glory. Then you shall see the King in His beauty.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 191, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 191, 1905, par. 40
Please read these things. The angel came from heaven and found John exiled there on the isle of Patmos, and told him all these things that were to transpire in the last days. He wants us to know it. He wants us to be prepared for it. He wants us to have the crown of life, that we shall not perish with the wicked. We are very anxious that you should have it. I will just read a few words in Revelation, third chapter. Verse 18. “gold.” What is it? He has promised us, “Let not your heart be troubled ....” [John 14:1.] Now that is what He is preparing for us, and we want to prepare for it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 178, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 178, 1907, par. 8
“Let not,” said Christ, “let not your heart be troubled.” [John 14:1.] Now this was the last lesson that He gave to His disciples before He left them, one of the last. Let us take the Word, let us with the simplicity of children trust the Word. Let us hang our hopes on Jesus. Do not allow a word of censure or of faultfinding and of complaint and speaking evil. Do not let it come into this institution.The Review and Herald
February 9, 1892
RH February 9, 1892, par. 20
Let every professed Christian read frequently and carefully the John 14:1, 15th, 16th, and 17th chapters of John. Read with a heart determined to understand the teachings of Christ, and to be a doer of his word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 9, 1882
3LtMs, Ms 9, 1882, par. 4
Spoke in San Francisco under the tent from these words: “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God, & c.” [John 14:1.] Several signed the covenant to keep all the commandments of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 12, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 12, 1883, par. 3
Elder Brownsberger asked me to speak Sunday evening. I was weary, but the Lord was my Helper. I was carried away from and out of myself. I forgot my weakness in the precious subject, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Ye believe in God, & c.” [John 14:1.] The power of God rested upon me. The audience was deeply attentive.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 10, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 10, 1887, par. 5
It is these revealings, these discoveries of God’s goodness, that make the soul humble and lead it to cry out in gratitude, “I live, yet not I, for Christ liveth in me.” [Galatians 2:20.] We have reason to be comforted. Severe outward trials may press around the soul where Jesus lives. Let us turn to Him for the consolations He has provided for us in His Word. The nether springs of hope and comfort may appear to fail us, but the upper springs which feed the river of God are full of supply and can never be dried up. God would have you look away from the cause of your afflictions to Him who is the owner of soul, body, and spirit. He is the lover of the soul. He knows the value of the soul. He is the True Vine, and we are the branches. We shall have no spiritual nourishment only as we draw it from Jesus who is the true life of the soul. “Ye believe in God, believe also in Me,” says Jesus. [John 14:1.] It is the will of Jesus that we shall be full of hope, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, and love. It is not God’s will that we should remain in sorrow and discouragement. While it is His will that we should know and see ourselves, it is His will that we should discern His love and His matchless mercy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 36, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 36, 1887, par. 21
Elder Haskell spoke in forenoon. Not many outsiders present. In the afternoon had a much larger number out. I spoke to the people at five P.M.—“Let not your heart be troubled,” etc. [John 14:1.] The Lord helped me to speak, else I could not have done so. The halls in England are very badly constructed. Ventilation can be obtained only in the top of the building, and the lower part of the building cannot be purified or receive the air. My head felt as though it were in an oven. The people listened with attention. One lady came and spoke to me requesting an interview with me, for which a time was set.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 33, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 33, 1891, par. 6
Fearing I shall not have time to write fully, I will now state in [the] words of Christ, “Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.]