EGW WritingsJohn 15

Steps to Christ

Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship

SC 61.2

That so-called faith in Christ which professes to release men from the obligation of obedience to God, is not faith, but presumption. “By grace are ye saved through faith.” But “faith, if it hath not works, is dead.” Ephesians 2:8; James 2:17. Jesus said of Himself before He came to earth, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. And just before He ascended again to heaven He declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10. The Scripture says, “Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.... He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk even as He walked.” 1 John 2:3-6. “Because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

The Knowledge that Works Transformation

8T 289.4

Of His own life the Saviour said: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “The Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always those things that please Him.” John 15:10; 8:29. As Jesus was in human nature, so God means His followers to be. In His strength we are to live the life of purity and nobility which the Saviour lived.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 47—Importance of Seeking True Knowledge

8T 312.3

As the sacrifice in our behalf was complete, so our restoration from the defilement of sin is to be complete. There is no act of wickedness that the law will excuse; there is no unrighteousness that will escape its condemnation. The life of Christ was a perfect fulfillment of every precept of the law. He said; “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. His life is our standard of obedience and service.

That I May Know Him

The Merits of Jesus’ Blood, April 29

TMK 125.3

Is there not occasion for humility? Is there not need of feeling our utter dependence upon Christ every day and hour? ... He took on Him our nature, and became sin for us, that we might have “remission of sins that are past” (Romans 3:25), and through His divine strength and grace might fulfill the righteous requirements of the law. Whoever takes the position that it makes no difference whether or not we keep the commandments of God is not acquainted with Christ. Jesus says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 15:10), and those who follow Jesus will do as He has done....

That I May Know Him

Imitating Christ, May 30

TMK 156.4

Christ never flattered any one. He never deceived or defrauded, never changed His course of straightforward uprightness to obtain favor or applause. He ever expressed the truth. The law of kindness was in His lips, and there was no guile in His mouth. Let the human agent compare his life with the life of Christ, and through the grace which Jesus imparts to those who make Him their personal Saviour, reach the standard of righteousness. Let him imitate the example of Him who lived out the law of Jehovah, who said, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10). Those who follow Christ will be continually looking into the perfect law of liberty, and through the grace given them by Christ, will fashion the character according to the divine requirements.37The Youth’s Instructor, October 18, 1894.

That I May Know Him

Power for Obedience, October 13

TMK 292.1

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. John 15:10.

That I May Know Him

Evidence of Our Allegiance, October 14

TMK 293.4

“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 15:10). This is the yoke which Christ invites us to wear—the yoke of obedience. Can we not say, “Lord, I take Thee at Thy word; I receive Thy promise. I come to Thee because I need Thee as a personal Saviour. I must have an abiding Christ. I am dependent on Thee. Thou art mine.” Christ says, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them”—not in pretense, but with the whole mind, heart, soul, and strength—“he it is that loveth me” (John 14:21). This is the true test of character. We must be doers of the Word.17Letter 66, 1898.

That I May Know Him

Wonderful Simplicity of the Law, October 15

TMK 294.4

The infinite sacrifice which Christ has made to magnify and exalt the law testifies that not one jot or tittle of that law will relinquish its claims upon the transgressor. Christ came to pay the debt which the sinner had incurred by transgression and by His own example to teach man how to keep the law of God. Said Christ, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10).... It is inconceivable how so many, professing to be servants of God, can set aside His law and teach sinners that they are not amenable to its precepts. What a fatal delusion! ...

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 29—The Sabbath

DA 287.3

Those who hold that Christ abolished the law teach that He broke the Sabbath and justified His disciples in doing the same. Thus they are really taking the same ground as did the caviling Jews. In this they contradict the testimony of Christ Himself, who declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10. Neither the Saviour nor His followers broke the law of the Sabbath. Christ was a living representative of the law. No violation of its holy precepts was found in His life. Looking upon a nation of witnesses who were seeking occasion to condemn Him, He could say unchallenged, “Which of you convicteth Me of sin?” John 8:46, R. V.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 24—Without a Wedding Garment

COL 311.4

This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God “was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.” Sin is defined to be “the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:5, 4. But Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law. He said of Himself, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God; yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. When on earth, He said to His disciples, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.

The Faith I Live By

Jesus’ Example in Law Keeping, March 20

FLB 85.1

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. John 15:10.

The Faith I Live By

Abundant Grace for Obedience, March 24

FLB 89.6

As the sacrifice in our behalf was complete, so our restoration from the defilement of sin is to be complete. No act of wickedness will the law of God excuse; no unrighteousness can escape its condemnation. The ethics of the gospel acknowledge no standard but the perfection of the divine character. The life of Christ was a perfect fulfillment of every precept of the law. He said, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. His life is our example of obedience and service. God alone can renew the heart. “It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” But we are bidden, “Work out your own salvation.” Philippians 2:13, 12.105The Ministry of Healing, 451, 452.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC 469.2

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23. The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” John 17:17. And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:16. What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him.” John 15:10; 8:29. The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC88 469.1

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares, “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays, “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” [1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23.] The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is, and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for his disciples, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy Word is truth.” [John 17:17, 19.] And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” [Romans 15:16.] What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told his disciples, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” [John 16:13.] And the psalmist says, “Thy law is the truth.” By the Word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in his law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him.” [John 15:10; 8:29.] The followers of Christ are to become like him,—by the grace of God, to form characters in harmony with the principles of his holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

The Ministry of Healing

The Knowledge That Works Transformation

MH 426.1

Of His own life the Saviour said, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. “The Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always those things that please Him.” John 8:29. As Jesus was in human nature, so God means His followers to be. In His strength we are to live the life of purity and nobility which the Saviour lived.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 38—The Importance of Seeking True Knowledge

MH 451.3

As the sacrifice in our behalf was complete, so our restoration from the defilement of sin is to be complete. No act of wickedness will the law of God excuse; no unrighteousness can escape its condemnation. The ethics of the gospel acknowledge no standard but the perfection of the divine character. The life of Christ was a perfect fulfillment of every precept of the law. He said, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” His life is our example of obedience and service. God alone can renew the heart. “It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” But we are bidden, “Work out your own salvation.” John 15:10; Philippians 2:13, 12.

The Sanctified Life

No Sanctification Without Obedience

SL 67.1

This woman did not possess genuine sanctification. It was not God who told her that she could be sanctified while living in disobedience to one of His plain commandments. God’s law is sacred, and none can transgress it with impunity. The one who told her that she could continue to break God’s law and be sinless was the prince of the powers of darkness—the same who told Eve in Eden, through the serpent, “Ye shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4). Eve flattered herself that God was too kind to punish her for disobedience of His express commands. The same sophistry is urged by thousands in excuse of their disobedience of the fourth commandment. Those who have the mind of Christ will keep all of God’s commandments, irrespective of circumstances. The Majesty of heaven says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10).

The Upward Look

Right or Wrong Side—Which? May 6

UL 140.5

There is a right side—the side of Him who declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10). “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul” (Psalm 19:7). There is a wrong side—the side of the one who in heaven rebelled against God. With his sympathizers he was expelled from the heavenly courts, and from his action we may understand that no matter how high a position a man may occupy in the church or in the world, if he is disloyal to God, if he accepts human laws instead of the laws of Jehovah, he can never enter heaven, for he is living in direct opposition to God. He will receive punishment in accordance with the power of influence which instead of being placed on the side of God was placed on the side of Satan. The greater the talents and influence given him, the greater will be his punishment. God will require at his hands the souls he has turned aside from truth to falsehood. Instead of leading them to God, he led them away from God, and their blood will be charged to him....

Education

Chapter 8—The Teacher Sent From God

Ed 78.7

What He taught, He lived. “I have given you an example,” He said to His disciples; “that ye should do as I have done.” “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 13:15; 15:10. Thus in His life, Christ’s words had perfect illustration and support. And more than this; what He taught, He was. His words were the expression, not only of His own life experience, but of His own character. Not only did He teach the truth, but He was the truth. It was this that gave His teaching, power.

The Upward Look

Never Yield Christian Principle, June 1

UL 166.5

Christ served as a true Son, an obedient Son. He declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10). Sanctification is a lifelong obedience. We can be greatly honored by being in co-partnership with Christ. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29). The obedience of which Christ has left us an example is perfect and complete....

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 12—Effectiveness of Presentation

VSS 76.3

His Life an Example for His Words—What He taught, He lived. “I have given you an example,” He said to His disciples, “that ye should do as I have done.” “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 13:15; 15:10. Thus in His life, Christ’s words had perfect illustration and support. And more than this; what He taught, He was. His words were the expression, not only of His own life experience, but of His own character.—Education, 78, 79.

This Day With God

Loving to Obey, May 13

TDG 142.1

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. John 15:10.

To Be Like Jesus

Jesus Kept the Sabbath by Doing Good, May 21

BLJ 152.4

Those who hold that Christ abolished the law teach that He broke the Sabbath and justified His disciples in doing the same. Thus they are really taking the same ground as did the caviling Jews. In this they contradict the testimony of Christ Himself, who declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 15:10).

Ye Shall Receive Power

Not All Healing Comes From the Spirit, July 12

YRP 202.2

We need to be anchored in Christ, rooted and grounded in the faith. Satan works through agents. He selects those who have not been drinking of the living waters, whose souls are athirst for something new and strange, and who are ever ready to drink at any fountain that may present itself. Voices will be heard, saying, “Lo, here is Christ,” or “Lo, ... there”; but we must believe them not” (Matthew 24:23). We have unmistakable evidence of the voice of the True Shepherd, and He is calling upon us to follow Him. He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” (John 15:10). He leads His sheep in the path of humble obedience to the law of God, but He never encourages them in the transgression of that law.

A New Life (Revival and Beyond)

Sanctification—Who Does the Work?

NL 13.2

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth” (John 17:17, 19). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16). What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him” (John 15:10; 8:29). The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 24—Teaching Literature Evangelism

PM 266.4

The Power of Jesus’ Example—What He taught, He lived. “I have given you an example,” He said to His disciples, “that ye should do as I have done.” “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” John 13:15; 15:10. Thus in His life, Christ’s words had perfect illustration and support. And more than this; what He taught, He was. His words were the expression, not only of His own life experience, but of His own character. Not only did He teach the truth, but He was the truth. It was this that gave His teaching power.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Preparation for the Judgment (Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White June 27, 1886, Orebro, Sweden.)

1SAT 30.2

Christ said to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world.... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” [Matthew 5:14-16]. It may seem to you that you have shown great self-denial and self-sacrifice in obeying God’s law. Does He require more self-denial on your part than He has shown for you, that you should not perish but have eternal life? He has led the way, will you follow? He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments” [John 15:10]. Will you keep the commandments of God? He left the royal throne in heaven, and changed the crown of glory for one of thorns. He placed His feet in the blood-stained path which led the way to Calvary. He has told us that those who will be partakers with Him in His sufferings, will be made partakers with Him in His glory also.

From Heaven With Love

Greater Care Shown Animals

HLv 190.2

Those who hold that Christ abolished the law teach that He broke the Sabbath and justified His disciples in doing the same. Thus they are taking the same ground as did the caviling Jews. In this they contradict Christ Himself, who declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10. Neither the Saviour nor His followers broke the Sabbath. Looking upon a nation of witnesses who were seeking occasion to condemn Him, He could say unchallenged, “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” John 8:46, RSV.

From Here to Forever

What Is Sanctification?

HF 290.1

What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” Since the law of God is “holy and just and good,” a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him.” John 15:10; 8:29. The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Popular Holiness Meetings

GW92 226.2

There are those who profess holiness, who declare that they are wholly the Lord’s, who claim a right to the promises of God, while they do not render obedience to his commandments. These transgressors of the law claim everything that is promised to the children of God, but this is simply presumption; for John tells us that “he that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” Jesus says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Obedience is the true sign of discipleship. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

True Revival

Sanctification—Who Does the Work?

TR 22.3

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth” (John 17:17, 19). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16). What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him” (John 15:10; 8:29). The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

What Is Sanctification?

GrH_c 27.4

What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” Since the law of God is “holy and just and good,” a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him.” John 15:10; 8:29. The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

Homeward Bound

Sanctification Is a Bible Doctrine, March 18

HB 95.3

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23.) The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” (John 17:17.) And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 15:16.) What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13.) And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to us the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him.” (John 15:10; 8:29.) The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

Homeward Bound

Abide in Christ, August 10

HB 247.1

If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love.—John 15:10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 84, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 84, 1886, par. 6

We are to overcome as Christ overcame. And how did Christ overcome? It was by perfect obedience to His Father’s commandments. He says, “I have kept My Father’s commandments” [John 15:10], and therefore through obedience we are to be brought back to our Eden home.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 5, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 12

If we are to believe the truth and [be] sanctified by the truth, then we must search the Scriptures, that we may know what is the truth. If we do this, we shall not build upon a false foundation. But if we do not, we shall find at last that we have made a great mistake and laid our foundation in the sand, to be swept away in the time of storm and tempest. I want eternal life if it takes out the right eye and if it takes off the right arm. The question with me is, Am I right with God? Am I serving Him in humility and meekness of soul? We are right amid the trials that shall try every soul of men that dwell upon the face of the earth. We may know what is the truth, and we may know what is error. We may know that we are laying our souls upon the foundation; we may know that we are not leading souls away from the truth. God help us that we may every one of us make sure of eternal life. And here is another Scripture. “Is there a prophet among you?” Deuteronomy 13:1-5. Here the commandments are set before them as a test of character. Said Christ, I have kept My Father’s commandments [John 15:10], and He is our pattern in all things. How do we do the commandments from the heart? Are we studying to carry out in our lives the principles of the Sabbath commandment, which God has put right in the bosom of His law?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 23, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 23, 1885, par. 25

Jesus says, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] Then what should we do but keep the commandments of God. Jesus did not break one of the ten commandments. He taught all who came unto Him their duty in this respect.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 75, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 75, 1886, par. 25

In the garden of Gethsemane and on the cross, Jesus’ soul was bruised. He carried the guilt of the world. He bore the hiding of His Father’s face. The Son of God endured the wrath of God and the punishment for the transgression of the law of God, but not to give to man liberty ever after to continue in transgression of God’s law. This might just as well have been done without all this suffering, if it were a possible thing to do, but the law of God was changeless in its character; not one jot or one tittle would fail. Therefore man must cease to transgress the holy law of Jehovah and come under the loyal banner of Jesus Christ, who declared He had kept all His Father’s commandments. [John 15:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 6a, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 6a, 1886, par. 17

Christ said to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world ... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.] It may seem to you that you have shown great self-denial and self-sacrifice in obeying God’s law. Does He require more self-denial on your part than He has shown for you, that you should not perish, but have eternal life? He has led the way; will you follow? He says, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] Will you keep the commandments of God? He left the royal throne of heaven and changed the crown of glory for one of thorns. He placed His feet in the blood-stained path which led the way to Calvary. He has told us that those who will be partakers with Him in His sufferings will be made partakers with Him in His glory also.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 19, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 19, 1886, par. 33

“If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 15:10; 16:24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 47, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 47, 1886, par. 4

“He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh My blood.” [John 6:56.] How can we explain the meaning of these words? “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; ... the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. So we see the eating of the flesh and drinking the blood is in obeying His Word. “He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them.” John 14:21. “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10. Now we want to be in harmony with our Redeemer, and if we are that is evidence that we keep His sayings. The souls of men are of the highest value, and it is our duty to know that we are in harmony with God. We need to cultivate faith in God and His Word.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 16, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 16, 1886, par. 11

If we are overcomers at last, there are battles for us to fight, and we will find that the flesh warreth against the spirit and the spirit against the flesh. It is for us to say which will triumph. But our carnal hearts will not submit to God’s will, but refuse to obey. Christ said, “I have kept My Father’s commandments” [John 15:10], and He is our example in all things. What shall we do when trials come? We must flee to the Mighty Helper. Christ never leaves us to fight these battles alone. He came into this world of darkness to fight with the prince of darkness, and when He cried out, “It is finished,” there was joy in heaven. [John 19:30.] “He was tempted in all points like as we are, yet without sin.” [Hebrews 4:15.] Then what are we to do? Come to Christ as a child would to its earthly parents and believe that He will hear us. He says, If thy son asks bread, wilt thou give him a stone? and if he asks a fish, wilt thou give him a scorpion? [Luke 11:11, 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 1, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 1, 1892, par. 13

The fall of our first parents broke the golden chain of implicit obedience of the human will to the divine. Obedience has no longer been deemed an absolute necessity. The human agents follow their own imaginations which the Lord said of the inhabitants of the old world were evil and that continually. The Lord Jesus declares, I have kept my Father’s commandments. [John 15:10.] How? As a man. Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God. To the accusations of the Jews He stood forth in His pure, virtuous, holy character and challenged them, “Who of you, convinceth me of sin?” [John 8:46.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 48, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 48, 1893, par. 1

I spoke in the skating rink. But few were present. Some who claim to believe in Jesus Christ as their Saviour have said, “No one can keep the law.” On this point the words of Christ are decisive. He states, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] And He is our Example in all things.

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

MR No. 546—Christ, the Second Adam

8MR 38.5

Christ, the second Adam, came in the likeness of sinful flesh. In man’s behalf, He became subject to sorrow, to weariness, to hunger, and to thirst. He was subject to temptation, but He yielded not to sin. No taint of sin was upon Him. He declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments [in My earthly life].” (John 15:10.) He had infinite power only because He was perfectly obedient to His Father’s will. The second Adam stood the test of trial and temptation that He might become the Owner of all humanity.—Manuscript 99, 1903, 3, 4. (“Christian Education in Our Schools,” September 1, 1903.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 91, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 91, 1894, par. 4

Jesus said at the close of His earthy ministry, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Neither the Saviour nor His followers ever broke the law of the Sabbath. Had the Jews been able to sustain their charge against Christ as a Sabbath breaker, as they tried to do, they would have had no need of bringing false witnesses in order that they might secure His condemnation and death. But because no fault could be found with Him, in order to secure His death, it was necessary that men should perjure their souls by testifying to a lie.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 37, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 37, 1894, par. 24

Christ said, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Christ is testing us today to see if we will be obedient to the law of God as He was, and be fitted up for the society of heavenly angels. God wants a loyal people. Rebellion originated in heaven; but it is not to be found there again. If we are willing to inquire, What is the way of the Lord? to do justice and judgment, to seek mercy and to walk humbly with our God, we shall hear Him say, “Child, come up higher.” He has builded for us a city, and He is not ashamed to call us brethren. He will gather the strangers and the pilgrims to Himself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 20, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 7

We must through faith accept the truth as it is in Jesus. The Bible election is plainly stated in the Word of God. “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his words, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.” “And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the spirit which he hath given us.” [1 John 2:4, 5; 3:24.] (See Revelation 22:12-21.)

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

MR No. 318—The Christian Pathway

5MR 263.2

“He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood.” How can we explain the meaning of these words? “It is the spirit that quickeneth; ... the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” [John 6:63]. So we see the eating of the flesh and drinking the blood is in obeying His word. “He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them” [John 14:21]. “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love” [John 15:10]. Now we want to be in harmony with our Redeemer, and if we are, that is evidence that we keep His sayings. The souls of men are of the highest value, and it is our duty to know that we are in harmony with God. We need to cultivate faith in God and His word.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 61b, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 31

“I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” [Verse 16.] As Creator of man He is the root of David. As bearing the nature of man, that He may be the world’s Redeemer, He is the offspring of David; that He may lay down His life for the saving of the human race He became Mediator in behalf of man. He might have avoided the humiliation, the suffering and abuse as a man, and avoided the cross, the cruel death. He might have left the human race to perish in their sins, to [join] the apostasy in harmony with the great deceiver. But His engagement was made, before the foundation of the world was laid, that if man proved rebellious, Christ would give His life a sacrifice, bearing their transgressions and making a way that man should return to his allegiance to God, and thus secure the salvation of His covenant people. The bright and morning Star should shine upon our world. If men would receive the Light of the world, the Truth, they would stand under the banner of Jesus Christ who testifies, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] By the most solemn covenant He had entered into [His work]. He would not go back, He would go forward and finish the work He had undertaken. He would not leave the world in the hand of the deceiver.

10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 49

Let not one of us allow our faith to be a fluctuating faith because the strong emotion of yesterday has not been recognized today. Feelings are not our criteria. “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] This is the abiding principle, the golden chain binding our souls to Christ. When we are not as sensitively alive to the sense of the love of Christ, as we have been, and the love of Christ seems to become dim, we know just what to do. [Read] Isaiah 57:15. Sit not and mourn over the lost connection, but humble the heart and come to the Lord in contrition. This precious statement and assurance of our Lord is to be appropriated to our individual cases. All our life in Christ is not fed and kept alive by feeling, but by facts. The love of Christ flows earthward, towards all who will accept it by faith, relying not on feeling, which is often a deceiving, artificial flame. Turn your eyes to the work of Christ, the unchanging facts of truth in the Word in regard to great, broad plan of salvation. Is your love lukewarm? Be thankful for the invitation that is always sure and imperishable.

10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 50

[Jesus says,] “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire.” This is love and faith, which lives under the test and increases in purity by the test—“Buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed (with the righteousness of Christ), that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” [Revelation 3:18.] In the place of entertaining one doubt as to the loving purpose of God toward you, heed this counsel of Jesus Christ without delay. [The reason] why we do not have greater ecstasy of joy is [because] we will make emotion the standard of our religion. We lose sight of faith and practice. The instruction is “Abide ye in My love.” [John 15:10.] Transitory feelings are not to become the test of our piety or of the love abiding in the soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 73, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 73, 1895, par. 10

In our schools the youth should be taught how to perfect a Christian character. Christ came to do the Father’s will. He said, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] He came to show us how the moral image of God, which had been obliterated by ages of sin, might be restored on the earth. Keep these lessons before the youth continually; for the highest science of education is to know the plan of redemption.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 75, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 75, 1895, par. 4

The first invitation that the Lord sent out was refused, and then the commission was given that they should go into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, the lame, the halt, and the blind. In this parable the Lord represented before the haughty Jews the fact that he would send the gospel to those whom they had despised, from whom in their self-righteousness, they had drawn away their garments, passing them by as if they were lepers to be shunned. Jesus represented this class as the very ones who would accept the invitation which the former class had despised and rejected. To accept the invitation to the supper meant to give up the worldly interests that had absorbed their minds, and turn their attention to preparation for the feast. The gospel message presented the fact that God required the whole man, and desired the service of heart, intellect and strength. The believer is to become like the branch that is grafted into a living vine, that knits fibre by fibre, vein by vein, and draws all its vital nourishment from the vine, giving evidence that its life is drawn from the vine by the character of the fruit that it bears. So is the Christian to draw his life from the life of Christ, and to develop a character after the divine similitude. Abiding in the warmth and light of the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, as the branch in the living vine, the Christian is to bear the fruits of the Spirit, manifesting the divine virtues of his Lord and Master. The attributes of the character of Christ are to be revealed in his character to the glory of God; the good works wrought by those who are eating of the bread of heaven, who are partakers of the divine nature, announce to the world that they have accepted the invitation to the gospel feast. Christ says, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love.” [John 15:10.] Those who abide in Christ, constantly reveal the fact that they have a healthful experience as the result of spiritual union with Christ. God is revealed through the believing soul. Christ is made unto us, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

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

MR No. 81—God’s Rebuke to Laodicea

1MR 368.3

Having complied with the Word of God, do not depend on your feelings for evidence of acceptance with God. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). If you have complied with the conditions, believe God, whether or not you feel any different. Christ declared, “As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.... If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 14:31; 15:10). Let all who understand the abiding claims of the law of God, yield implicit obedience to every requirement given in the Word. The convictions of the Holy Spirit are warnings which it is dangerous to disregard.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 124, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 124, 1897, par. 7

Close union with Christ means to do the words of Christ. He calls this union a continuance of His love. Then the heart is in harmony with God. Treasure up the promises, doing every little duty faithfully, as unto God. “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love.” [John 15:10.] Here is compliance and dependence.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 60, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 60, 1898, par. 15

“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.” [John 14:6, 15, 21, 23, 24.] “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love: even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 48, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 48, 1898, par. 5

Christ served as a true son, an obedient son. He declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] Sanctification is a lifelong obedience. We can be greatly honored by being in co-partnership with Christ. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] The obedience of which Christ has left us an example is perfect and complete. He lived the law in human nature, that human nature may receive Him by faith, and through the power given, become the sons of God. God’s love is magnified in His law by restricting and binding about the impulse to work against the attributes of God, and His great love magnifies the law and makes it honorable. He came not to do His own will, but the will of Him that sent Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 189, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 189, 1898, par. 14

Let us seek the Lord most earnestly and give no encouragement to Satan to abide with us. He has found a comfortable abiding place in many hearts. Let us clear the rubbish away from the heart and let Jesus in. Invite Him, saying, Abide with me. The heavenly angels will minister unto all who will consent to let the leaven of truth come into the heart. Think of this promise, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” John 15:10. What a condescension, encouraging us with His own experience!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 88, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 88, 1898, par. 13

Those who claim to preach Christ, while they declare that the law of God is abrogated, do not preach the truth. Had not God’s law been unchangeable, Christ need not have suffered on Calvary. He died that the transgressor of the law might be pardoned and return to his loyalty. He took human nature upon Himself, and suffered for us, that we might have another trial, that we might be given opportunity to leave the banner of rebellion and stand under the banner of the Prince of light. And He declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] In Him is no sin. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sin, and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:4, 5.] Christ’s sacrifice would have converted the world to truth if false teachers had not upheld false doctrines, making it appear a virtue to trample on the law of Jehovah.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 148, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 148, 1899, par. 25

Having complied with the Word of God, do not depend on your feelings for evidence of acceptance with God. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] If you have complied with the conditions, believe God, whether or not you feel any different. Christ declared, “As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. ... If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 14:31; 15:10.] Let all who understand the abiding claims of the law of God yield implicit obedience to every requirement given in the Word. The convictions of the Holy Spirit are warnings which it is dangerous to disregard.

In Heavenly Places

The Witness of the Spirit, May 17

HP 144.3

The law of God is the great standard of righteousness. This the apostle declares is holy, just, and good. David says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul” (Psalm 19:7). Christ says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” ... “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 14:15, 21). This is most assuredly the witness of the Spirit.... “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 15:10).

HP 144.4

Those who are obedient to the will of God will not have a hard and miserable time in this life. Hear again the words of Christ: “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (verse 11). This is the witness which it is the privilege of all to have—the joy of Christ in the soul through appropriating the word of God ... and bringing the requirements of Christ into the practical life. There is full assurance of hope in believing every word of Christ, believing in Him, being united to Him by living faith. When this is his experience, the human being is no longer under the law, for the law no longer condemns his course of action....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 158, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 158, 1898, par. 4

When God’s people search the Scriptures with a desire to know what is truth, Jesus is present in the person of His representative, the Holy Spirit, reviving the heart of the humble and contrite ones. “If a man love me, he will keep my words,” Christ said, “and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” [Verse 23.] “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy right remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 44, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 44, 1898, par. 20

The test is plainly defined: “He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings, and the words which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.” “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 14:24; 15:10, 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 15, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 15, 1899, par. 7

The Lord accomplishes His work through humanity. Christ clothes His divinity with humanity, that humanity might touch humanity. In condescending to take humanity, Christ exalted humanity. The Majesty of heaven, Commander in the heavenly courts, he revealed in person the similitude of the character of God before the world. He lived the law of God. He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “If ye keep my commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Should this restraint of required obedience make anyone unhappy? Hear what Christ says, “These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [Verse 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 64, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 64, 1899, par. 4

“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] Who but the world’s Redeemer could utter such precious words as these? This is no mere empty theory; it is a positive promise that there is joy in obedience. Upon the obedient the Sun of Righteousness arises with healing in His wings. He who wears the yoke of Christ will walk cheerfully, bravely bearing the cross. In so doing he becomes a partaker “of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 161, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 161, 1902, par. 2

One thing is certain: we must be constantly reaching forward to the excellence to which God wishes us to attain. We must not fail nor become discouraged. Things will come that will try the souls of God’s workers. Expecting trials, let us keep ourselves braced by prayer and trust. And we are not to hunt for something to make us sorry. Christ’s promise is, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 165, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 165, 1904, par. 31

Now, they will be exerting an influence. Three or four have come into the truth. The last letter that came from some of my family says that they keep up the meetings there at the soldiers’ home. This is the way we are to look for places all around us, where we can get in. The seed sown will bear fruit, and we shall see of the glory of God. I will not hold you any longer, but I will say, The Spirit of the Lord can make us fit workers, that we can have on His armor and be cheerful. Do not go with sadness on your faces. Christ says, “If you keep My commandments, and abide in My love, My joy shall be in you, and your joy shall be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] Now I defy anybody that has the joy of Christ in the heart, to go with a long, discouraged face.

That I May Know Him

“With Joy Unspeakable,” May 16

TMK 142.2

He [Christ] says, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:10, 11). In Him there is joy that is not uncertain and unsatisfying. If the light that flows from Jesus has come to you, and you are reflecting it upon others, you show that you have joy that is pure, elevating, and ennobling. Why should not the religion of Christ be represented as it really is, as full of attractiveness and power? Why should we not present before the world the loveliness of Christ? Why do we not show that we have a living Saviour, one who can walk with us in the darkness as well as in the light, and that we can trust in Him? ...

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 102, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 40

Before partaking of the sacrament, let us clear the King’s highway by confessing and forsaking every sin. Let us make everything right with our brethren. This will bring joy and peace to our hearts. “If ye keep My commandments,” Christ says to His disciples, “ye shall abide in My love. ... These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.]

Ye Shall Receive Power

Faith, March 9

YRP 77.2

In coming to Christ there must be an exercise of faith. We need to bring Him into our everyday life; then we shall have peace and joy, and we shall know by experience the meaning of His word, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love” (John 15:10). Our faith must claim the promise, that we may abide in the love of Jesus. Jesus said, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (verse 11).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 2, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 2, 1895, par. 32

“Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:8.] When the heart has a deep longing for God, when the mind contemplates the goodness and the loving kindness of God, when the soul hopes and trusts in the Lord, the Holy Spirit will be as a Comforter to the soul. Jesus says, “If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love: even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things are spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” [Colossians 4:6.] Will we be obedient to these inspired words that come sounding down the lines of time? The purpose to which we are called is an exalted one.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 11a, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 11a, 1895, par. 17

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:8.] When the heart has a deep longing for God, when the mind contemplates the goodness and lovingkindness of God, when the soul hopes and trusts in the Lord, the Holy Spirit will be as a comforter to the soul. Jesus says, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” [Colossians 4:6.] Will we be obedient to these inspired words that come sounding down the line to our time?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 98e, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 98e, 1896, par. 4

Let your own words stimulate your faith. “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] Think and constantly dwell on the precious love of God. Jesus is the wellspring of life. He ever liveth to make intercession for us. He can and will guide us into all truth. He Himself has announced that He came to heal the broken-hearted, to set the captive free. Then receive for your individual self all that Christ is willing to do and longs to do for you. He will bring gladness to your heart, that has been so long depressed. Be of good cheer, because Jesus Christ is your Healer. Say over and over, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 85, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 85, 1886, par. 8

We need, as a people, greater faith in Jesus Christ. We need to bring Him into our lives. Then we shall have peace. We shall have joy. We shall know by experience the meaning of the words of Jesus, “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” [John 15:10.] Here our faith must come in to claim the promise that we abide in the love of Jesus. “These things I have spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is My commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [Verses 11, 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 140, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 140, 1897, par. 10

The right principles lived daily, hourly, in the home bring Jesus very near, and where Christ is, there is light and peace and joy. What are the conditions of Christ’s indwelling presence? “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] “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.” [John 14:21.] “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:11, 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 127, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 49

“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.” [Verses 23, 24.] “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you; and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:10-12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 106a, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 106a, 1896, par. 22

“Joy.” This does not mean a cheap levity, enjoyment which is found in jesting, joking, laughing; but it means that joy which Christ speaks of in (John 15:10, 11): “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” [Verses 10-13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 50, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 50, 1893, par. 13

Christ loves every soul. He gave His life to save man. “If ye keep my commandments,” He says, “ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:18.] Christ died on the cross to draw all to Him, and He would have us joyful in that joy which He alone can give, the joy of obedience.

8LtMs, Ms 50, 1893, par. 14

“This is my commandment, that ye love one another.” To love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves is the fulfilling of the law. Christ has a treasurehouse full of precious gifts for every soul. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Then Christ tells us who are his friends, “Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I have commanded you.” [John 15:12-14.] The work of sanctification consists of a cheerful performance of daily duties, in perfect obedience to the commandments of God. A failure to cooperate with Christ in the great work of redemption is a failure that all eternity cannot supply.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 123, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 123, 1897, par. 8

You must make no reserve. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them,” He says, “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.] “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] Obedience to God’s commandments does not keep us in a sad, gloomy frame of mind; the contemplation of them is not a sorrow. Through them the cheerful beams of Christ’s righteousness shine into our hearts.

12LtMs, Lt 123, 1897, par. 11

When the Master takes account of His servants, He gives His approval to those who have done faithful work with His entrusted capital. He speaks to them words of commendation, and rewards them as if the merit were their own. “Well done, good and faithful servant,” He says, “thou hast been faithful over few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.] The countenance of Christ is full of joy and satisfaction, He is filled with delight that He can bestow blessings upon them for their faithful service. “Henceforth I call you not servants, but friends.” [John 15:15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 70, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 70, 1897, par. 2

Everything is at stake with us. Our obedience or disobedience to the commandments of God will decide our eternal welfare. “If ye keep my commandments,” Christ says, “ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “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.” [Verses 21, 23, 24.]

12LtMs, Ms 70, 1897, par. 4

I was able to sleep till 3:30. I thank the Lord that I am gaining some strength. I pray to Him; I give myself to His service. I long for physical strength and health, for mental clearness, that I may render to God acceptable service. “ye have not chosen me,” Christ has said, “but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go, and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 20, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 30

If God has estimated man of such value that he would not withhold His only begotten Son that was one with the Father, but gave Him to the world for the world to insult—the Son of the Infinite God, the Majesty of heaven to be derided, He that was equal with the Father to be treated thus—if they treated Him so, how will they treat us? God said, “If they will receive my testimony, they will also receive yours. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they have called me Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of your household.” [See John 15:20; Matthew 10:25.] We need not expect to sail to heaven without any trials and difficulties. Christ says, He that will come after me, let him indulge himself and have all the amusements that he wants? No. “Let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me and so shall he be my disciple.” [Mark 8:34.] Those are the conditions. Are you lifting the cross or are you trying to step over it? I ask you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Are you willing to be [a] partaker with Him in His suffering?

9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 44

I want to follow Jesus the precious Saviour, so that He shall not have died for me in vain. He longs to encircle us with the arms of His mercy. What have you sacrificed for Jesus? What have you done for the man of Calvary? O that you would teach Him in your family and represent Him as He represented the Father. He said, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] And He set us an example in all things. I invite you to come over on the Lord’s side. I invite you to have your souls riveted to the eternal Rock.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 13

“But,” said I, “can you be saved as a transgressor of God’s law? If the light has come and you will not see it because your good men and your great men will not see the plain light of truth and close their eyes to evidence, you take the very position the Jews took in reference to Christ. He said of them, ‘Ye will not come to Me that ye might have life.’ John 5:40. ‘Light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.’ John 3:19. ‘If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.’” John 15:22.

3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 24

Has God commanded? Then we must obey, without hesitating and seeking to find out some way to be saved without obedience. This would be climbing up some other way. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” “I have kept My Father’s commandments,” says the Majesty of heaven. [John 14:6; 15:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35b, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 35b, 1877, par. 4

“No, my sister, not if you see the light and refuse to walk in it, any sooner than the Jews who had the light that Christ was the Messiah, yet, because He was a Saviour of humiliation, but few would accept Him. He was the light of the world. He made the world, and yet the world knew Him not. The light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehended it not. When the question was asked by the scribes and Pharisees, ‘Are we blind also?’ said Christ, ‘If ye were blind ye would have no sin, but now ye say ye see, therefore your sin remaineth. This is your condemnation, that Christ has come into the world and men choose darkness rather than light. If I had not come, ye would have had no sin.’ [John 9:40, 41; 3:19; 15:22.]”

3LtMs, Lt 35b, 1877, par. 16

Has God commanded? Then we must obey, without hesitating and seeking to find out some way to be saved without obedience. This would be climbing up some other way. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” “I have kept my Father’s commandments,” says the Majesty of heaven. [John 14:6; 15:10.]

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

MR No. 954—Study of Growth of Ellen White’s Theological Understanding

12MR 145.2

When God’s people search the Scriptures with a desire to know what is truth, Jesus is present in the person of His representative, the Holy Spirit, reviving the hearts of the humble and contrite ones. (John 15:23, 10, 11 quoted.)—Manuscript 158, 1898.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 143, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 9

The world’s Redeemer declares, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] “I counsel thee,” saith the True Witness, “to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.” [Revelation 3:18.] Christ’s righteousness will not cover the unrighteousness of any one. “All unrighteousness is sin,” and “sin is the transgression of the law” [1 John 5:17; 3:4], therefore, those who are breaking the law of God and teaching others to break it will not be covered with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. He came not to save men in their sins, but from their sins. ...

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 78

Christ declared, “If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.” [John 9:41.] “If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.” [John 15:24.] To His disciples He said, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [Verse 10.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “He that hateth me hateth my Father also.” [John 15:23.] “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 65, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 16

If the Master of the house suffered in order that we might have eternal life, we must not complain, but cheerfully be partakers with Christ of His sufferings. Then we will be partakers with Him of His glory. Whosoever doeth his duty to the blessed Saviour in the home life and in the church life, seeking to sow the gospel seed in all places, some will oppose, misrepresent. Whosoever becomes a faithful steward of the grace of Christ wherever he may be, if for well-doing [he suffers] unkindness and hatred of men, let him represent Christ in meekness and unhatred of men. Let each say in all Christian duties, “They hated me without a cause.” [John 15:25.] We should not worry about the mischief of unruly tongues. None of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Bear the testimony of truth, and stand faithfully, bearing the last message to a guilty world.

4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 34

I tried to present the truth in regard to the delusions of those who profess what is called holiness or sanctification. I am aware that this is one of the masterpieces of false religion and a satanic delusion. They are the most hopeless of any class, as far as reaching them with the truth is concerned. As they have no reverence or respect for the Bible, they have taken impressions or feelings as their guide, and many of them declare they have no longer any use for the Bible. The Lord leads them. The Lord tells them just what to do in everything. They are even too holy to be obedient to God’s sacred commandments. They have taken strides far in advance of the prophets, the apostles, and of Christ Himself who declared, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] They have made them a standard, which is impressions and feelings.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 48, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 48, 1890, par. 24

Jesus Christ explains to His disciples His connection with the Father and teaches them the secret of His abiding in His Father’s love. “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10.

6LtMs, Ms 48, 1890, par. 30

Satan is constantly alluring away from faithfulness and thoroughness in the essential works of preparedness for the great event which will try every man’s soul. The work in the heavenly sanctuary is going forward. Jesus is cleansing the sanctuary. The work on earth corresponds with the work in heaven. The heavenly angels are at work constantly to draw man, the living agent, to look to Jesus to contemplate and meditate upon Jesus that he may, in viewing the perfection of Christ, be impressed with the imperfections of his own character. The Comforter Christ promised to send, He declared, “shall testify of Me.” [John 15:26.] This is the burden of the message for this time. Go lift up Jesus as the world’s only hope. Stop your controversies, cease your debating, which tends to create prejudice and opposition and leads to immature decisions, that fasten souls against Christ when they might have been gathered with Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 96, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 1

“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, the servant is not greater than his lord.” [John 15:18-20.]

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 3

“If they have persecuted me,” said Christ, “they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But these things will they do unto you ... because they know not him that sent me.” [Verses 20, 21.] The world, and those churches that are converted to the same sentiments that the world receives and cherishes, will make it exceedingly hard for men and women to be loyal to the Ruler of the universe. The church and the world are traveling the same path, under the same general. They do not choose the strait gate and narrow way leading unto eternal life. They know not the Father, or Jesus Christ whom He has sent.

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 4

“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [Verse 10.] The disciples knew that the teachings of Christ were of a convincing character; they knew that He kept His Father’s commandments. His words to them were a convincing power, speaking to their senses and their hearts. They were the gospel invitation, bidding them partake of the heavenly banquet, the rich repast prepared for them.

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 5

“He that hateth me, hateth my Father also.” [Verse 23.] Christ Himself was the perfection of the Father; but the priests who might have received richest blessings through Christ, and rejoiced in the truth, having the light of truth flashing into their minds and hearts, refused to be convinced, either by His words, which led people to say, “Never man spake like this man” [John 7:46], or by His works.

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 6

“If I had not done among them,” said Christ, “the works that none other man did, they had not had sin; but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.” [John 15:24, 25.]

12LtMs, Ms 96, 1897, par. 11

“But when the Comforter is come, 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.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 87, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 4

We must not think that Satan will cease for one moment in his efforts to do to Christ’s followers as he did to Christ. “If the world hate you,” Christ said, “ye know that it hate me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own, but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world; therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I have said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you: if they have kept my saying they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you because they know not him that sent me. ... This cometh to pass that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.” [John 15:18-21, 25.] Can those who claim to be followers of Christ say with their Master, “They hated me without a cause”?

12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 14

Christ does not promise His followers a smooth and easy path, but He does not ask them to travel the Christian way alone. “When the Comforter is come,” He said, “whom I will send unto you from the Father, 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. These things have I spoken unto you that ye should not be offended.” [John 15:26-16:1.] He told them the truth regarding the future, that when their trial came, they might not fall into discouragement and doubt. When John the Baptist was beheaded, His disciples were inclined to reproach Christ because He did not work a miracle to save His servant. So today there is danger that we shall become dissatisfied because Christ does not work a miracle in our behalf, and humiliate our enemies.

12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 15

“They shall put you out of the synagogue.” [John 16:2.] Has not this been done? Have not those who have accepted the light in regard to the binding claims of the law of God, who have decided to observe conscientiously the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, been turned out of the churches? But they are precious in God’s sight. When the light came to them, they repented and were converted, and Christ’s words are applicable to them: “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 ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 14:21; 15:10.]

Help In Daily Living

Chapter 4—Pressing Toward the Mark

HDL 51.1

“These things have I spoken unto you,” said Christ, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11.

Steps to Christ

Chapter 13—Rejoicing in the Lord

SC 124.1

The Lord would have all His sons and daughters happy, peaceful, and obedient. Jesus says, “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.” “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 14:27; 15:11.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Power from on High

7T 273.1

As the divine endowment—the power of the Holy Spirit—was given to the disciples, so it will today be given to all who seek aright. This power alone is able to make us wise unto salvation and to fit us for the courts above. Christ wants to give us a blessing that will make us holy. “These things have I spoken unto you,” He says, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11. Joy in the Holy Spirit is health-giving, life-giving joy. In giving us His Spirit, God gives us Himself, making Himself a fountain of divine influences, to give health and life to the world.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 43—A Higher Experience

MH 504.1

“These things have I spoken unto you,” said Christ, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11.

Ye Shall Receive Power

In the Darkest Hour, May 6

YRP 135.2

You may be disappointed, and your will and your way may be denied; but be assured that the Lord loves you. The furnace fire may kindle upon you, not for the purpose of destroying you, but to consume the dross, that you may come forth as gold seven times purified. Bear in mind that God will give you songs in the night. Darkness may seem to enclose you, but you are not to look at the clouds. Beyond the darkest cloud there is an ever-shining light. The Lord has light for every soul. Open the door of the heart to hope, peace, and joy. Jesus says, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11).

Ye Shall Receive Power

Real Appreciation, October 25

YRP 307.4

As the divine endowment—the power of the Holy Spirit—was given to the disciples, so it will today be given to all who seek aright. This power alone is able to make us wise unto salvation, and to fit us for the courts above. Christ wants to give us a blessing that will make us holy. “These things have I spoken unto you,” He says, “that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). Joy in the Holy Spirit is health-giving, life-giving. In giving us His Spirit, God gives us Himself—a fountain of divine influences, to give health and life to the world.—The Signs of the Times, March 15, 1910.

Radiant Religion

In the Spirit of Self-Sacrificing Love, February 28

RRe 61.1

These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 19a, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 19a, 1886, par. 12

We have not earnestness enough in our faith or in our experience. I am anxious that these young men should be educated to know what it is to trust God fully. You want an individual experience in the things of God; and should you press your petitions to the throne of grace, “Give me, Jesus, clearer and more distinct views of Thy purity, Thy love, and Thy power,” you would receive answers to your prayers. Your souls would be touched, and your lips, as with a living coal from off His altar. Why, your words would be of such a different character from just the common utterances that we hear from day to day. Why? Because Christ is treasured in the heart, and out of the treasures of the heart the mouth speaks, and you are thus training yourselves for the kingdom of heaven. The lower you lie in humility at the foot of the cross, the more clear and forcible is the glory and loveliness of Christ to you. Your very hearts ought to glow with the love of Jesus. Christ said to His disciples that it was His will that their joy should be full [John 15:11], and the one reason that it is not is because you have so faint and indistinct views of the power and loveliness of Jesus. You want to study the character of Christ and pattern after it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 20, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 20, 1892, par. 23

Religion can bless only where it influences. If we at any time exclude its influence, we exclude its blessing. I almost see you a boy again, and want to say, John, my son, for Christ’s sake put on the whole armor of righteousness; open the windows of the mind, the door of the heart and let heaven’s blessed sunshine flood both mind and soul temple; then joy in Christ will be a permanent state of the heart. “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.] I have seen you, in reviewing the past, full of keen remorse and inexpressible sorrow. Have you confessed all to God, have you asked Him to pardon your transgressions? I know you have and do you believe that He will pardon your transgressions? Then act on the promise. You have the pledged word of God. You may be free in Christ Jesus, and He will remember your sins no more. How many times I have longed to say to you, Look! O, look and live. I know just what I am writing about.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 86a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 86a, 1893, par. 35

I feel the deepest interest that you should take stock in this life insurance policy, for thus you may have a title to the immortal inheritance and secure eternal life in the kingdom of God. Heaven is worth everything or nothing to us. Through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ you can stand complete in Him. I am pained for you. I hate to have you unhappy. It distresses me to have you afflict your soul. But there is One whom you grieve more than it is possible to grieve me. It is your Redeemer who owns you. “These things have I spoken unto you,” He says, “that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 65a, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 65a, 1894, par. 13

You may be disappointed, and your will and your way may be denied; but be assured that the Lord loves you. The furnace fire may kindle upon you, not for the purpose of destroying you; but to consume the dross, that you may come forth as gold seven times purified. Bear in mind that God will give you songs in the night. Darkness may seem to enclose you; but you are not to look at the clouds. Beyond the darkest cloud there is an everlasting light. The Lord has light for every soul. Open the door of the heart to hope, peace, and joy. Jesus says, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 93, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 93, 1896, par. 9

In hours when clouds encompass the soul, Christ is not far from every one of us. To whom shall we go if not to the Sin-bearer, the great Healer of human woe? “Thou hast the words of eternal life.” [John 6:68.] There is joy for all who put their trust in him, and exercise the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Jesus says, “My joy shall be in you, and your joy shall be full.” [John 15:11.] “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” [Hebrews 11:6.] A paralysis has stolen upon the spiritual nerve and muscle of the children of God. Arouse now, just now, without delay. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 96, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 96, 1902, par. 31

As the divine endowment—the power of the Holy Spirit—was given to the disciples, so it will today be given to all who seek aright. This power alone is able to make us wise unto salvation and fit us for the courts above. Christ wants to give us a blessing that will make us holy. “These things have I spoken unto you,” He says, “that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.] Joy in the Holy Spirit is health-giving, life-giving joy. In giving us His Spirit, God gives us Himself, making Himself a fountain of divine influence to give life to the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 80, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 80, 1903, par. 36

You may think that you would be unhappy if you should try to serve Christ; but I testify to you that you would be pleasantly disappointed. When you choose to obey the Lord, and become one with Him, you will realize that the light of His countenance is shining upon you, and that you will see Him as He is when He comes. He will be in all your thoughts, and your heart will be filled with joy. After instructing His disciples to keep His commandments, He declared, “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.] He takes no pleasure in seeing us miserable, but takes delight in seeing us joyful.

In Heavenly Places

We May Triumph Gloriously, September 29

HP 279.2

“These things have I spoken unto you,” the Saviour said, “that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). The work of overcoming is not a joyless work; no, indeed. It means communication with Heaven. You can go to God in prayer; you can ask, and receive; you can believe, hanging your helpless soul on Christ. It means that humanity can work the will and ways of God. Humanity and divinity are combined for this very purpose.35Manuscript 19, 1909.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 170, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 170, 1903, par. 7

O how I long to see Jesus! I love Him, and the precious promises of His Word warm my soul. I feel a love for Him burning in my heart such as I felt for Him many times in 1843 and 1844. He did indeed speak to me last Sabbath, and my heart was filled with joy. I realized the meaning of the words, “That My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” [John 15:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 163, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 163, 1903, par. 10

I am of good courage. The Lord came very near to me at our Friday evening season of worship. O how my soul longs to see Jesus! I love Him, and the precious promises of His Word warm my soul. I feel a love for Him burning in my heart such as I felt many times in 1843 and 1844. Last Sabbath the Lord did indeed speak to me, and my heart was filled with joy. I realized the meaning of the words, “That my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” [John 15:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 92, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 92, 1903, par. 10

I should not advise you to connect with any of our large institutions, to be exposed to the many temptations that will come. We all accept too much responsibility in connection with our work when we need instead more restraint and a deeper sense of what God is to us and what we may be to Him. How many there are who live under such a pressure of worry that they taste but little of the sweetness of God’s love. They do not know the meaning of the words, “That My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” [See John 15:11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 301, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, par. 26

In perfect obedience there is perfect happiness. “These things have I spoken unto you,” Christ said, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.] May the Lord bless us, and strengthen our faith, and lead us onward to the heights to which we have not yet ascended. He gave Christ to die for us, that we might be purified from all iniquity. He has promised to pour out His Spirit upon us, that we may be sanctified through the truth. He has given us His Word, that through obedience to its teaching, we may be made holy. It is our privilege, our duty, to grow in grace. This is the will of God, even your sanctification.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 406, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, par. 4

When we are in perplexity and trouble, we would do well to make an earnest study of the life of Christ. He was a man of sorrows, yet He had peculiar joys—joys that did not spring from earth, but were born of His connection with divinity. He is the Saviour of those who are perishing for lack of His life. He desires to make them partakers of the divine nature, and thus escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. Amid perplexities and inconveniences the believing soul may have the privileges of sonship with God. Looking unto Jesus, he learns of Him how to conduct himself under every circumstance; for he has the experience of Christ to guide him, and the consolation of Christ to sustain him. Christ is the consolation of His people. “In the world ye shall have tribulation,” He says, “but in Me ye shall have peace. My peace I leave with you; My peace give I unto you; not as the world giveth give I unto you.” “These things have I spoken unto you that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 16:33; 14:27; 15:11.]

Letters to Young Lovers

From the Bible

“These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11).

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Great Healer of Human Woe, December 11

JNN 363.5

In hours when clouds encompass the soul, Christ is not far from every one of us. To whom shall we go if not to the Sinbearer, the great Healer of human woe? “Thou hast the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). There is joy for all who put their trust in Him, and exercise the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Jesus says, My joy shall be in you, and your joy shall be full (John 15:11). “Without faith it is impossible to please Him” (Hebrews 11:6). A paralysis has stolen upon the spiritual nerve and muscle of the children of God. Arouse now, just now, without delay.—Letter 93, 1896.

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

MR No. 1482—Appeal for Complete Consecration, Including Breaking With Secret Societies

20MR 289.5

Happiness is not dependent on the frivolities and dissipations of the world. When the door of the heart is opened to the love of Jesus, there are opened fountains of pure and never-ceasing joy in the soul. Jesus has said. “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). We have a precious, loving Saviour, who wants us to find our happiness in him, because the happiness He gives is not fluctuating but enduring. The religion of Jesus Christ never makes its possessor unhappy, never creates gloom or despondency. God calls on every soul to enter His way of peace and find rest in placing all their burdens upon him.

Maranatha

Unspeakable Gladness, November 4

Mar 316.2

“These things have I spoken unto you,” said Christ, “that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11.

Our High Calling

Most Happy People on Earth, May 22

OHC 148.1

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11.

Selected Messages Book 2

The Glorious Resurrection Morning

2SM 272.4

You may be disappointed, and your will and your way may be denied; but be assured that the Lord loves you. The furnace fire may kindle upon you, not for the purpose of destroying you, but to consume the dross, that you may come forth as gold seven times purified. Bear in mind that God will give you songs in the night. Darkness may seem to enclose you, but you are not to look at the clouds. Beyond the darkest cloud there is an ever-shining light. The Lord has light for every soul. Open the door of the heart to hope, peace, and joy. Jesus says, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 61, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 61, 1893, par. 14

My brethren are well aware that the Word of God presents the matter of church unity as a principle; those who are united to Christ by the truth of heavenly origin should have strong friendship for one another. And this is not all. “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:11, 12, 17.] The love of Christ must come into the church and be cherished by every member as a precious plant. If the branches of the vine are united to the parent stock, the same life dwells in them all.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 109, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 109, 1906, par. 34

All who love God supremely will love their neighbor as themselves. The keeping of the new commandment is to the believer a step heavenward. The one thing that will give God’s people the supremacy is obedience to the command, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:17.] “Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ said, “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:20, 21.]

21LtMs, Ms 109, 1906, par. 35

“These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:11, 12.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

God’s Purpose for the College

CT 97.1

We should ever look upon the youth as the purchase of the blood of Christ. As such they have demands upon our love, our patience, our sympathy. If we would follow Jesus we cannot restrict our interest and affection to ourselves and our own families; we cannot give our time and attention to temporal matters and forget the eternal interests of those around us.... “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12), is the command of Jesus. Look at His self-denial; behold the manner of love He has bestowed upon us; and then seek to imitate the Pattern.—Testimonies for the Church 5:21-35; read in College Hall, December, 1881.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 70—“The Least of These My Brethren”

DA 641.3

Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts.

The Faith I Live By

Your Influence Counts! August 17

FLB 235.1

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. John 15:12.

The Retirement Years

Vows to Carry On After Husband’s Death

RY 163.3

During this severe attack of sickness [experienced in Oakland, California, in 1888] I had vividly brought to my remembrance the experience I passed through when my husband was dying. I prayed with him in my great feebleness on that occasion. I sat by his side with his hand in mine until he fell asleep in Jesus. The solemn vows I there made to stand at my post of duty were deeply impressed upon my mind—vows to disappoint the enemy, to bear a constant, earnest appeal to my brethren of the cruelty of their jealousies and evil surmisings which were leavening the churches. I would appeal to them to love one another, to keep their hearts tender by the remembrance of the love of Jesus exercised toward them, in what He did for them. And He said, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12). I never can express with pen or voice the work that I discerned was laid out before me on that occasion when I was beside my dying husband. I have not lost the deep views of my work, as I sat by the bed of my husband with his dying hand in mine.— Manuscript 21, 1888.

This Day With God

Passport to Heaven, January 26

TDG 34.5

Let the affliction that has come to your family circle be a blessing to you all. Our dear sister, your mother, loved Jesus. Her warfare is ended. You are to remember that she rests in hope. “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him” (Colossians 3:4). Let the peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit come into your hearts. Open the door of your hearts, that Jesus may enter as an honored guest, and you will have a Comforter. “This is my commandment, That ye love one another” (John 15:12). Let the hearts of the living draw close to one another. Let each try to be a blessing to the other, and not a hindrance....

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 19—Distressing Experiences of 1888

1888 177.5

During this severe attack of sickness I had vividly brought to my remembrance the experience I passed through when my husband was dying. I prayed with him in my great feebleness on that occasion. I sat by his side with his hand in mine until he fell asleep in Jesus. The solemn vows I there made to stand at my post of duty were deeply impressed upon my mind—vows to disappoint the enemy, to bear a constant, earnest appeal to my brethren of the cruelty of their jealousies and evil surmisings which were leavening the churches. I would appeal to them to love one another, to keep their hearts tender by the remembrance of the love of Jesus exercised toward them, in what He did for them. And He said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12. I never can express with pen or voice the work that I discerned was laid out before me on that occasion when I was beside my dying husband. I have not lost the deep views of my work, as I sat by the bed of my husband with his dying hand in mine.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth

1888 1124.1

God so loved the world that He manifested His love by giving His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus said: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” [John 13:34, 35]. “This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you” [John 15:12]. Let your zeal be manifest, not in exposing your variances but in cultivating the precious plant of love, just as Jesus has told us to do.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 5, 1883

2SAT 16.4

But he says, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12). Oh, my soul, we profess to love the Bible, do we not? Do we plant ourselves upon the Word of God as it is? I was going to tell you a little of what I thought. We want to feel here that we are one family, redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. He is pleading for us. He says, “Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands” (Isaiah 49:16). It is the religion of Christ we want. We want to drink deeper when we are converted men and women.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 70—Christ Identifies With the Poor and Suffering

HLv 432.2

To make us children of one family, the King of glory became one with us. “Love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12. When we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven, for we have heaven in our hearts. In the great judgment day, those who have not worked for Christ, who have drifted along thinking of themselves, will be placed by the Judge of the whole earth with those who did evil.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 40, 1879

3LtMs, Lt 40, 1879, par. 18

You want the angels of God to work with your efforts and break down every barrier that would hedge up your way. It is the purpose of God that you shall be a free man. But you can forfeit your freedom by circumscribing the course of others and taking away their freedom of action. You are in danger of losing tender compassion and faith. There is no kingdom of God for you unless you exercise tender compassion and forgiveness toward others. God is love. “This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12. With the measure wherewith grace is melted to us, so must we mete to others that we may not offend God.

God’s Amazing Grace

Adopted Sons and Daughters, February 15

AG 54.6

Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts.33The Desire of Ages, 638-641.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 5, 1883

4LtMs, Ms 5, 1883, par. 32

But he says, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12. Oh, my soul, we profess to love the Bible, do we not? Do we plant ourselves upon the Word of God as it is? I was going to tell you a little of what I thought. We want to feel here that we are one family, redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. He is pleading for us. He says, “Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands.” Isaiah 49:16. It is the religion of Christ we want. We want to drink deeper when we are converted men and women.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 21, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 21, 1888, par. 9

During this severe attack of sickness I had vividly brought to my remembrance the experience I passed through when my husband was dying. I prayed with him in my great feebleness on that occasion. I sat by his side with his hand in mine until he fell asleep in Jesus. The solemn vows I there made to stand at my post of duty were deeply impressed upon my mind—vows to disappoint the enemy, to bear a constant, earnest appeal to my brethren of the cruelty of their jealousies and evil surmisings which were leavening the churches. I would appeal to them to love one another, to keep their hearts tender by the remembrance of the love of Jesus exercised toward them in what He did for them. And He said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12. I never can express with pen or voice the work that I discerned was laid out before me on that occasion when I was beside my dying husband. I have not lost the deep views of my work as I sat by the bed of my husband with his dying hand in mine.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 8a, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 8a, 1891, par. 29

What we want is to be Bible Christians. And God has opened to me what stands in the way of the conversion of youth and children—their parents do not treat them aright. It is too much indulgence and too much passion. Now when they come into the schools shall they have the same kind of treatment by those who think what they don’t know is not worth knowing? They know it all when they have scarcely learned the first lessons in the alphabet of self-control and how to deal with human minds. There is something to learn. God help us to come right to the cross to see the royal Sufferer upon the cross and why He suffers. It is to save souls, to bring sons and daughters to God. He gave Himself to save the world. He says, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” John 15:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 6, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 11

Many waters cannot quench that love evidenced by Christ, neither can floods drown it. No opposition extinguished His affections. He had to bear much with the dullness of comprehension of His disciples, but although often grieved in spirit, He loved them still. Our love will be tested, that its growth may be developed. Love is of heavenly origin. While it suffers long, it is kind. “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] “Charity [love] envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, endureth all things.” [1 Corinthians 13:4-7.]

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

MR No. 611—George I. Butler

8MR 312.1

During this severe attack of sickness [experienced in Oakland, California, in 1888] I had vividly brought to my remembrance the experience I passed through when my husband was dying. I prayed with him in my great feebleness on that occasion. I sat by his side with his hand in mine until he fell asleep in Jesus. The solemn vows I there made to stand at my post of duty were deeply impressed upon my mind—vows to disappoint the enemy, to bear a constant, earnest appeal to my brethren of the cruelty of their jealousies and evil surmisings which were leavening the churches. I would appeal to them to love one another, to keep their hearts tender by the remembrance of the love of Jesus exercised toward them, in what He did for them. And He said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” (John 15:12.) I never can express with pen or voice the work that I discerned was laid out before me on that occasion when I was beside my dying husband. I have not lost the deep views of my work, as I sat by the bed of my husband with his dying hand in mind.—Manuscript 21, 1888, pp. 2, 3. (“Distressing Experiences of 1888,” circa 1888.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 45, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 45, 1894, par. 8

Every arbitrary exaction of man toward his fellow man will react upon himself in double measure. Just in proportion as the human agent is a partaker of the divine nature he will be in sympathy with Christ. Jesus says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye”—tolerate one another? No,—“that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 92, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 14

He who loses his love for Jesus, loses his love for his fellow men. Those who are bound up with the heart of infinite love will love those for whom Christ has died, as Christ loves them. Jesus says, “This is My commandment that ye love one another.” How much, Lord? “As I have loved you.” [John 15:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 68, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 68, 1896, par. 11

“A new commandment I give unto you,” said Christ, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] “Beloved,” writes John, “let us love one another; for love is of God, and he that loveth is born of God.” [1 John 4:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 58, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 12

But the words of Christ identify His interest, not only with His people in the world, but, in a wider sense, with every child of Adam. When Jesus would uplift men to become members of the heavenly family, He humbled Himself to become a member of the earthly family, and by partaking of our nature He became the Son of man, the Son of Adam, and a brother to every son and daughter of our fallen race. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,” (John 3:16) and thus the Saviour has identified Himself with suffering humanity. “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us;” and He bids us, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” [Romans 5:8;] John 15:12. Christ’s love embraces the fallen, the erring, and the sinful; and every deed of kindness done to uplift a fallen soul, every act of mercy, is accepted as done to our Saviour.

11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 34

Love to man is but the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant in the human heart that principle of love which would make us children of one family that the King of glory became one with us. And when among the followers of Christ His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12), when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. Heaven is begun on earth. God with us has become God in us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 10, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 10, 1898, par. 7

Let the affliction that has come to your family circle be a blessing to you all. Our dear sister, your mother, loved Jesus. Her warfare is ended. You are to remember that she rests in hope. “When he who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with him.” [Colossians 3:4.] Let the peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit come unto your hearts. Open the door of your hearts, that Jesus may enter as an honored guest, and you will have a Comforter. “This is my commandment, That ye love one another.” [John 15:12.] Let the hearts of the living draw close to one another. Let each try to be a blessing to the other, and not a hindrance.

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

MR No. 1180—Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth

15MR 300.1

God so loved the world that He manifested His love by giving His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus said: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” [John 13:34, 35]. “This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you” [John 15:12]. Let your zeal be manifest, not in exposing your variances but in cultivating the precious plant of love, just as Jesus has told us to do.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 133, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 133, 1899, par. 25

Christ declared, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] This is the fruit that is to be given back to God.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]

The Proper Way to Deal With Students in Our Schools

9MR 63.2

What we want is to be Bible Christians. God has opened to me what stands in the way of the conversion of youth and children—their parents do not treat them aright. There is too much indulgence and too much passion. Now, when they come into the schools, shall they have the same kind of treatment by those who think that what they don’t know is not worth knowing? They know it all, when they have scarcely learned the first lessons in the alphabet of self-control, and how to deal with human minds. There is something to learn. God help us to come right to the cross, to see the royal Sufferer upon the cross, and why He suffers. It is to save souls, to bring sons and daughters to God. He gave Himself to save the world. He says, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12).

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 70—Criticism

2MCP 639.2

The Root of Bitterness—While you so readily think and speak evil of one another, while you allow the root of bitterness to spring up and be cherished, your influence scatters from Christ and hardens hearts in resistance to the sweet spirit of unity and peace. Put it all away without a moment’s delay. “Love one another,” Christ says, “as I have loved you” (John 15:12).—Letter 33, 1890.

My Life Today

Love People as Christ Loved Them, July 2

ML 187.1

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. John 15:12.

Our Father Cares

Adopted Sons and Daughters, August 5

OFC 229.6

Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts.5God’s Amazing Grace, 54.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 133a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 133a, 1898, par. 14

“I will set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand I shall not be moved; therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth; my flesh also shall rest in hope.” [Psalm 16:8, 9.] Sin has expelled from the heart the love of God. “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you that ye also love one another; by this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ... This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 13:34, 35; 15:12.]

13LtMs, Lt 133a, 1898, par. 15

Supposing I said to Brother Hare, “We begin to work earnestly to get out of self into the doing if the Word just as it is written, ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ [Verse 13.] You seem to justify your own course of action; you see not how you have grieved the heart of Jesus Christ; you are not accepted of Him until your own spirit is softened and subdued by a sense of that love of Christ that is without a parallel. We are running the race of life; shall we obtain the crown, shall we be victorious. As a people we will have to come where the Holy Spirit will work every power we possess. Religion is not, my brother, a tame thing; it is up and doing. In everything concerning the eternal interest of man, she leads to the front, but is militant and aggressive upon self and all that is unlike Christ. But I have no more to say on this point.” He went away just as he came—without softening a particle. In regard to his past actions, he feels just as he did.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 45, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 45, 1893, par. 34

I leave this matter with you, for I have been worried and troubled in regard to the dangers that assail all in Battle Creek, lest they shall move indiscreetly and give the enemy advantage. This need not be, for if we walk humbly with God, we shall walk safely and bear in mind the words of Jesus Christ, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [Verse 12.] “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one even as we are one; I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and (mark the words) that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Blessed, Blessed utterance! Will we believe the words of Jesus? Will we practice His words? If we do, we shall see for greater results, than we have hitherto seen. Oh, we shall be filled with all the fullness of God. We shall possess a power that shall resist every device of the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 55, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 55, 1898, par. 2

Christ has declared, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:12-14.] “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]

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

MR No. 1152—The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need for the Indwelling Christ

15MR 87.2

Since God has so loved us, we ought also to love one another. How much? Jesus said, “This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another” [John 15:12-15]. Here we have a decided, positive command. We would ask, Who are doers of these words? Oh, that God may impart to His poor, needy children His Holy Spirit of love, that the prayer of Christ may be fulfilled in His people, and we all may be one as He is in the Father and the Father in Him.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need for the Indwelling Christ

1888 1047.2

Since God has so loved us, we ought also to love one another. How much? Jesus said, “This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another” [John 15:12-15]. Here we have a decided, positive command. We would ask, Who are doers of these words? Oh, that God may impart to His poor, needy children His Holy Spirit of love, that the prayer of Christ may be fulfilled in His people, and we all may be one as He is in the Father and the Father in Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 14, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 14, 1899, par. 18

Christ’s admonition to His disciples is to be heeded by us. Almost His last words before He gave His life for the world were, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another.” How much, Lord? “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment that ye love one another as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you; and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:12-16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 17, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 17, 1891, par. 9

The Lord Jesus does not rule His church like a task master. He said to His followers, “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth; but I call you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you that you should go out and bring forth much fruit and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye should ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you that ye love one another.” [John 15:15-17.] “This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [Verse 12.] “So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.” [Ephesians 5:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 41, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 6

Jesus said, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Now if you are following another leader than Christ, who is Light and Truth and Life, leave that leader and follow Jesus, the Light of the world. Is the Lord pleased to have you tossed about as the restless waves of the sea? No! No! I tell you He bids you be strengthened, stablished, rooted and grounded and built up in the most holy faith. Ye are not your own; ye are bought with a price which cannot be estimated. Then your owner is God, the mighty God, and for the price paid look to the cross of Calvary. This fluctuating between hope and fear grieves the heart of Christ, who hath given you unmistakable evidence of His love and hath chosen you. “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, He may give it you.” [John 15:16.]

8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 19

“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [Verse 35.] Here it is our privilege to bear the credentials to the world that the Saviour in whom we believe is the only begotten Son of God, because all who stand under His banner present to the world a united front. What can be the grief of Christ and the heavenly angels to see those who are called by His name doing the very opposite of that which Christ has told them they must do and prayed to His Father in heaven that they should do. “This is my commandment that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] These words in (John 13) are enforced in John 15:14. And with greater force are repeated in (vs. 17): “These things I command you that ye love one another.”

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

MR No. 1544—Relation of Husbands and Wives

21MR 215.2

The Lord Jesus does not rule His church like a taskmaster. He said to His followers, [John 15:15-17, 12-14, quoted]. “So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 24, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 24, 1892, par. 22

Since God has so loved us, we ought also to love one another. How much? Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:12-17.] Here we have a decided, positive command. We would ask, Who are doers of these words? Oh, that God may impart to His poor, needy children His Holy Spirit of love, that the prayer of Christ may be fulfilled in His people, and we all may be one as He is in the Father and the Father in Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 8, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 8, 1893, par. 2

How stands the case with us? “As I have loved you.” [John 13:34.] How much? I laid aside my crown, that I might come to the earth, that humanity might touch humanity. Love one another as Christ has loved us. If we do this, the world will know that we are of Christ. “Love as Christ has loved us.” “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [Verse 35.] John 15:12-17. We want you to see that professing to keep commandments of God is not an evidence that we keep them. Love to God and love to our neighbor is required.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 23, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 23, 1906, par. 24

“These things I command you, that ye love one another. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for My name’s sake, because they know not Him that sent Me.” [John 15:12-21.]

With God at Dawn

God’s Love Is Greater than Life Itself, February 8

WGD 41.1

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 9, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 9, 1885, par. 7

God has given us abundant proof of his love for us. The Word of God declares, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” [John 15:13.] But Jesus gave His life for His enemies. The love that shines from Calvary is without a parallel. Christ died in order to place salvation within the reach of all sinful mortals. Will we take hold of the promise? Will we take hold of the divine power? The thought of the infinite sacrifice that He made in our behalf should arouse in us an earnest desire to be like Him. For our sakes He left His Father’s throne and clothed Himself with humanity. In our behalf, He became a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. In order that we might have through obedience to His requirements an eternal weight of glory, He endured shame and mockery. Shall we, then, be indifferent and neglect the salvation placed within our reach at so great a cost?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 56, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 25

Thank God, with heart, and soul, and voice. Let all querulous complaints cease. Let all murmurings be cut out of our Christian experience. Let faith grasp these important assurances: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends (consider the conditions), if ye do whatsoever I command you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go, and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain. ... These things I command you, That ye love one another.” [John 15:13-17.]

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Chapter 10—Dress

CTBH 94.2

Christian sisters, labor far less to grow into the ever-changing fashions of this age. Study rather the great pattern, Jesus Christ, that you may not grow apart from him. Manifest a determined purpose to abide in the Vine. If you abide in Christ, you will bear much fruit. But as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, “No more can ye,” says Christ, “except ye abide in me.” [John 15:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 6, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 6, 1889, par. 14

While all Sabbathkeepers are anxious and troubled, seeking to penetrate the mysteries of the future, and to learn all they can in regard to the correct position they shall take, be careful that they are advised correctly in regard to Sunday observance. Action cannot be taken in regard to this matter here, and our people of all classes of minds and of varied temperaments should treat it wisely. There will ever be danger of going to extremes. Christ says, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” John 15:14. Then to your knees in prayer; have far less of self and depend wholly on the counsel of God. Then, if all would be under the control of the Spirit of God, there would be nothing to fear, for all would adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 138, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 138, 1897, par. 29

The true beauty of the soul is found in obedience to the will of God. Adam and Eve’s disobedience in a very small matter lost Eden to them. God’s commands are for the regulation of the human heart. If we observe them, our lives will be lives of obedience because we love Jesus. “Ye are my friends,” He said, “if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Enoch was a friend of God, and he walked with God. Christ’s followers will esteem every precept He has given them to be right. They have the guarantee, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 164, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 164, 1900, par. 23

The prodigal son was welcomed to his father’s house. But in order to enjoy the privileges of a son, he must comply with the conditions of sonship. The Lord calls upon all to walk in accordance with His word. Christ says, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I have commanded you.” [John 15:14.] Our friendship with God is measured by His dominion over us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 183, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, par. 12

The prodigal was welcomed to his father’s house. But in order to enjoy the privileges of a son, he must comply with the conditions of son-ship. The gospel testifies that God in his boundless love for man assumed humanity in the person of his Son. Christ has made a propitiation for the sins of the whole world. He will cooperate freely and willingly with those who will receive him as their Saviour. He is not far from anyone of us. He will gladly receive all who will renounce the favor and friendship of the world, and make him their all and in all. He calls upon us to walk in accordance with his word. He says to us, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Our friendship with him is measured by his dominion over us.

God’s Amazing Grace

A Throne in Every Heart, March 29

AG 96.5

The upward progress of the soul indicates that Jesus bears rule in the heart. That heart through which He diffuses His peace and joy, and the blessed fruits of His love, becomes His temple and His throne. “Ye are my friends,” says Christ, “if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14).67Testimonies for the Church 5:553.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 11, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 11, 1902, par. 3

We bear the name of Christian. Let us be true to this name. Christ declared, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Those who obey His Word are accounted as friends of God. We should be very careful not to grasp so many responsibilities that we shall weave into the web our individual misconceptions, because we have an incorrect idea of what constitutes principle. If we did fewer of the things that are not essential, and gave more time to those things that stablish, strengthen, and settle the mind and heart, we should grow to the full stature of men and women in Christ, and God would say of us, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 40, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 40, 1902, par. 14

Nothing hurts me so much as for you to be perplexed and troubled and disappointed, and for me not to be able to help you. You do not understand me, and I dare not write to you, fearing that I shall not help you. I do not want you to be so heavily burdened. It worries me to think that you are. What does the Lord require of you and of me? Obedience, simply obedience. Christ says, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 228, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 228, 1903, par. 10

Remember that in your life religion is not to be merely one influence among others. It is to be an influence dominating all others. Be strictly temperate. Resist every temptation. Make no concessions to the wily foe. Listen not to the suggestions that he puts into the mouths of men and women. You have a victory to win. You have nobility of character to gain, but this you cannot gain while you are depressed and discouraged by failure. Break the bands with which Satan has bound you. There is no need for you to be his slave. “Ye are My friends,” Christ said, “if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 24, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 24, 1903, par. 15

“Ye are My friends if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] This is the test of friendship with Christ. It is not enough for us to know His will; we must obey.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 329, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 329, 1905, par. 6

Christ invites us, “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 11:29, 30.] In our character building, give encouragement to every divine, sacred influence. The blessing from Jesus makes everything good and profitable. Have His praise in your heart and in your voice and in your words, and your hearts will become fit temples for the Holy Spirit of God. Your success depends upon constant watchfulness and earnest prayer. “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I have commanded you.” [John 15:14.] Depending upon the Lord, you can do the very things that are to be done, without murmuring and without disputing.