EGW WritingsJohn 15
Ellen G. White · Page 9 of 9
Read John 15 in the BibleJohn 15:14-17
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 30a, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 30a, 1892, par. 23
“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.] “Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] “These things I command you that ye love one another.” [Verse 17.] These are plain words. There is no need of misunderstanding them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 25a, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 25a, 1895, par. 14
When you see weakness cropping out in your thoughts and imaginings that, if entertained, would separate you from your brethren and lead you to regard them with distrust and suspicion in reference to yourself, put them away quickly. They are only the working of a designing Satan to make you appear like a feeble, demented man. You can rise above these things. You can rise [nearer] to God and closer to your brethren. God has evidenced to you that He loves you. Let these thoughts make you pleased, joyful, happy in such love, and lift you above the suggestions of Satan into a spiritual atmosphere. Service to God is not merely obedience to His requirements, but likeness to God. You are His child; vital is the relationship of Father and child, oneness of nature. “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.” “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:14, 15, 17.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1556—Church Leader to Be Self-Denying and Humble, Not Proud and Dictatorial
21MR 269.2
The Lord did give you a message for the people, and so long as you worked as His servant, He sustained you. He says, “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 of the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another” (John 15:14-17).21MR 269.4
Christ says to His undershepherds, “I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain” (John 15:16). How can we do a work that will bear the test and strain of trial? By directing the people to the Source of all power. Christ does not say, If any man thirst, let him go to Brother J or some other disciple. No. He says, “Let him come unto Me and drink.” God does not say of the sinner, “Let him take hold of the strength of some human being.” No, no. He says, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me” (Isaiah 27:5).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 19, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 2
The Lord did give you a message for the people, and so long as you worked as His servant, He sustained you. He says, “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:14-17.]16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 4
Christ says to His undershepherds, “I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.” [Verse 16.] How can we do a work that will bear the test and strain of trial? By directing the people to the source of all power. Christ does not say, If any man thirst, let him go to Brother ----- or some other disciple. No, He says, “Let him come unto me and drink.” [John 7:37.] God does not say of the sinner, “Let him take hold of the strength of some human being.” No, no. He says, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.]John 15:14-27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 7a, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 7a, 1900, par. 11
“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 sayings, 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. ... But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, he shall testify of me. And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.” [John 15:14-21, 26, 27.]John 15:15
Education
A Lesson in Love
Ed 94.2
“It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him.” “All things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you.” And “the Comforter, ... whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 16:7; 15:15; 14:26.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Best Friend, January 14
JNN 21.1
“No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.”—John 15:15Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
A Season of Trust and Privilege
GW 267.1
The present is a season of solemn privilege and sacred trust. If the servants of God keep faithfully the trust given to them, great will be their reward when the Master shall say, “Give an account of thy stewardship.” [Luke 16:2.] The earnest toil, the unselfish work, the patient, persevering effort, will be abundantly rewarded. Jesus will say, Henceforth I call you not servants, but friends. [See John 15:15.] The approval of the Master is not given because of the greatness of the work performed, but because of fidelity in all that has been done. It is not the results we attain, but the motives from which we act, that weigh with God. He prizes goodness and faithfulness above all else.Lift Him Up
Choose Him as Our Trusted Friend, March 25
LHU 98.1
Henceforth I call you not servants; ... but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. John 15:15.John 15:15-16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 96, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 96, 1892, par. 4
How good it is to have a Friend in Jesus. “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:15, 16.] Blessed, comforting, encouraging words.John 15:15-17
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 49, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 49, 1897, par. 6
When you respect each other, you will respect Jesus Christ. You are to show no preferences, for the Lord does not show preferences to His chosen ones. He says, “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.” [John 15:15.] This is the confidence that the Lord would have you cherish in each other. Unless you do this more than you have done in your past experience, you will not walk and work under the dictates of the Spirit of God. God would have you united in pleasant cords of companionship. As the Lord’s workmen, you are to open your plans one to another. These plans must be carefully and prayerfully considered, for the Lord will leave those who do not do this to stumble in their own supposed wisdom and superior greatness.12LtMs, Lt 49, 1897, par. 7
“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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [Verses 16, 17.] One person must not suppose that his wisdom is beyond making any mistake. God would have the greatest cherish that humility that will lead him to be the servant of all, if duty thus orders it.Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1573—Counsel Together and Lean Wholly on God
21MR 337.2
When you respect each other, you will respect Jesus Christ. You are to show no preferences, for the Lord does not show preferences to His chosen ones. He says, “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” [John 15:15]. This is the confidence that the Lord would have you cherish in each other. Unless you do this more than you have done in your past experience, you will not walk and work under the dictates of the Spirit of God.21MR 337.3
God would have you united in pleasant cords of companionship. As the Lord’s workmen, you are to open your plans one to another. These plans must be carefully and prayerfully considered, for the Lord will leave those who do not do this to stumble in their own supposed wisdom and superior greatness. [John 15:16, 17, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 49a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 49a, 1897, par. 6
As you cultivate respect for one another, you will learn to respect Jesus Christ. You are to show no preferences, for the Lord does not show preferences to His chosen ones. He says, “I call you not servants, but friends; 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.” [John 15:15.] This is the confidence that the Lord would have you cherish toward one another. Unless you do this more than you have in the past, you will not walk and work under the dictation of the Spirit of God. God would have you united in pleasant cords of companionship. As the Lord’s workmen, you are to open your plans to one another. These plans must be carefully and prayerfully considered, because those who do not do this the Lord will leave to stumble in their own supposed wisdom and superior greatness.12LtMs, Lt 49a, 1897, par. 7
“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.” [Verses 16, 17.] No one must suppose that his wisdom will secure him from making any mistakes. God desires that the greatest should choose that humility, that will lead him to be the servant of all if duty demands it.John 15:16
Lift Him Up
Seek to Save the Lost, December 10
LHU 358.1
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. John 15:16.Ye Shall Receive Power
Chosen to Be Saved, February 2
YRP 41.3
Christ is calling souls to come unto Him, and it is for our present and eternal interest to hear and respond to the call. Jesus says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you” (John 15:16). Then let all who would be called children of God respond to the invitation of Christ, and place themselves where the light of heaven will shine upon them, where they will realize what it is to be hearers and doers of the words of Christ, what it is to follow the Light of the world, and be accepted in the Beloved.Ye Shall Receive Power
Divine Image Restored, February 8
YRP 47.4
Christ says: “I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain” (John 15:16). As Christ’s ambassador, I would entreat of all who read these lines to take heed while it is called today. “If ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (Hebrews 4:7). Without waiting a moment, inquire, What am I to Christ? What is Christ to me? What is my work? What is the character of the fruit I bear?—The Review and Herald, February 12, 1895.Ye Shall Receive Power
A Holy Fragrance, March 1
YRP 69.1
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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. John 15:16.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Careful and Prayerful Consideration
3TT 199.1
So far as possible, committees should let the people understand their plans in order that the judgment of the church may sustain their efforts. Many of the church members are prudent and have other excellent qualities of mind. Their interest should be aroused in the progress of the cause. Many may be led to have a deeper insight into the work of God and to seek for wisdom from above to extend Christ’s kingdom by saving souls perishing for the word of life. Men and women of noble minds will yet be added to the number of those of whom it is said: “Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, ... that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” John 15:16.From the Heart
What Must I Do to Be Saved? March 26
FH 97.1
You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain. John 15:16.Homeward Bound
You Cannot Wear God Out, May 9
HB 150.4
Jesus said, “Ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you.” “I have chosen you: . . . that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” (John 16:26, 27; 15:16.) But to pray in the name of Jesus is something more than a mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His promises, rely upon His grace, and work His works.With God at Dawn
I Have Ordained You, October 1
WGD 276.1
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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. John 15:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 102, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 102, 1893, par. 2
Satan is the destroyer; Jesus Christ is the Restorer. There is balm in Gilead; there is a physician there. Earthly physicians may fail, but God never. This sickness is for the glory of God. Hold fast the promises. Press the petition to the court of heaven and believe. The Lord in His providence has brought Brother Wilson to this Colony not to die, but to live. Then we will take the pledged Word of God, and lay it before Him, and in the simplicity of perfect trust say, “I believe Thy word. I take Thee at Thy word.” “Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:16.] Believe, O, believe that this sickness will be healed, and the name of the Lord will be magnified.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 131, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 131, 1894, par. 14
I know that there is constant danger of our entering into temptation by being careless in conversation, but I hope you, my children, will guard your words, for you want not to be shorn of your strength. You want to grow in grace. You want to have growth in religious experience. “Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he will give it you.” John 15:16. The mind spiritually enlightened will behold the glory of the Lord, as of the only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.Prayer
Chapter 20—Praying In The Name of Jesus
Pr 219.2
Jesus said, “Ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you.”“I have chosen you: ... that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” John 16:26, 27; John 15:16. But to pray in the name of Jesus is something more than a mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His promises, rely upon His grace, and work His works.—(Steps to Christ, 100, 101.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 61, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 61, 1895, par. 24
It is when we engage in earnest work, working according to our several ability that God manifests Himself to us, and gives us grace for grace. A working church in travail for souls will be a praying church, a believing church, and a receiving church. A church whose members are found upon their knees before God, supplicating His mercy, seeking Him daily, is a church that is feeding upon the Bread of life, and drinking of the water of life. The promise, “Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you,” will be verified to them. [John 15:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 63, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 21
God is not pleased to have men in far distant lands wait for the word from Battle Creek before they venture to make a move. God has the ordering of His work. Let us believe in His power to guide. He will give wisdom and understanding to His representative men in the localities of His great moral vineyard. “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.] I have to say to my brethren in Battle Creek, The Lord does not have to send His orders and His message, which He gives to His messengers in all parts of His world, around through Battle Creek, to be sent to different workers in the regions beyond. And the Lord does not lay every responsibility upon all those who assume this, to say, Do this, and, Thou shalt not do that. When men are educated to look to Battle Creek so largely, God is dishonored.10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 28
The church members have, many of them, the blessing of prudence, and excellent qualities of mind, and their wisdom is to be called out, and to be exercised, and others of the church will become aware of their own ignorance in reference to the great questions to be considered. Right impressions will be made upon their minds, and awaken many to feel that they must have a deeper insight and knowledge of the work. They are convicted that they are far behind, but they are to seek God most earnestly [for Him] to help with His wisdom. His mercy seat is never sought in vain. We have now to settle in in earnest to seek for wisdom from above while we intently study how much is at stake—souls perishing for the Word of life, the kingdom of Christ to be extended. There are men and women of the noblest minds who will be added to the number of those of whom it will be said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you that ye go forth and bear fruit.” [John 15:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 58, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 58, 1895, par. 20
God is not pleased that men in distant lands should have to wait for orders from Battle Creek before they can venture to make a move. We should believe in the power of the Lord to guide, for He has the ordering of His own work. He will give wisdom and understanding to His representative men in every part of His great moral vineyard. He says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.] To my brethren in Battle Creek I would say, The Lord does not need to send His orders to His messengers in all parts of the world through Battle Creek. He does not lay this responsibility upon all those who assume to say to His workers, “Do this,” and “thou shalt not do that.” God is dishonored when men are led to look to Battle Creek to so large a degree.10LtMs, Lt 58, 1895, par. 32
Some are convicted that they are far behind in their knowledge of the message, but God will help those who earnestly seek Him for wisdom. None ever seek His mercy seat in vain. We should earnestly seek wisdom from above, realizing that souls are perishing for the Word of life, and that the kingdom of Christ is to be extended. Men and women of noble minds will yet be added to the number of those of whom it is said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you ... that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 50, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 50, 1896, par. 7
You are bought with a price which cannot be estimated. Then your owner is God, the mighty God, and the price is paid. Look to the cross of Calvary. This fluctuating between hope and fear hurts the heart of Christ, who hath given you unmistakable evidence of His love, and hath chosen you. “Ye have not chosen me,” saith Jesus; “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 12 (1897)
Ms 32, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 32, 1897, par. 9
God is not pleased to have men in far distant lands wait for word from any great center before they make a move. God has the ordering of His work. Let us believe in His power to guide. He will give wisdom and understanding to His representative men in their portion of the great moral vineyard. “Ye have not chosen me,” He says, “but I have chosen you; and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 94, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 94, 1899, par. 35
The very ones who had rejected Christ were to hear His message. Those who had lived in close alliance with the leaders of rebellion were to bear to them a message of pardon and forgiveness. Some who had been united with those who had planned and compassed Christ’s death, who had said, “This is the heir, come, let us kill him” [Matthew 21:38], were to be reclaimed from disobedience and apostasy. “Ye have not chosen me,” Christ said, “but I have chosen you.” [John 15:16.] The Lord forgave them; for they had not known what they were doing; and He sent them forth to proclaim a risen and ascended Saviour. They published the truth that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah.Prayer
Chapter 29—The Privilege of Prayer
Pr 286.1
Jesus said, “Ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you.”“I have chosen you: ... that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” John 16:26, 27; John 15:16. But to pray in the name of Jesus is something more than a mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His promises, rely upon His grace, and work His works.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 121, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 121, 1902, par. 24
The need of workers must be urged upon the people. Christ declares, “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.” [John 15:16.] “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things.” [Romans 8:32.] He has in store for us the richest gift of heaven, even the gift of the Holy Spirit. He is waiting to pour upon His people the mighty power of this Spirit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 126, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 126, 1902, par. 3
“Ye have not chosen me,” the Saviour declared, “but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain,” because you give evidence that you are trees of the Lord’s planting; “that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” [John 15:16.]Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 53—Transformation Through Faith and Obedience
1SM 347.3
The Lord saw our fallen condition; He saw our need of grace, and because He loved our souls, He has given us grace and peace. Grace means favor to one who is undeserving, to one who is lost. The fact that we are sinners, instead of shutting us away from the mercy and love of God, makes the exercise of His love to us a positive necessity in order that we may be saved. Christ says, “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” (John 15:16).Steps to Christ
Chapter 11—The Privilege of Prayer
SC 100.2
Jesus said, “Ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you.” “I have chosen you: ... that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” John 16:26, 27; 15:16. But to pray in the name of Jesus is something more than a mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His promises, rely upon His grace, and work His works.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
The Relation of Diet to Board Meetings
7T 259.3
So far as possible, committees should let the people understand their plans in order that the judgment of the church may sustain their efforts. Many of the church members are prudent and have other excellent qualities of mind. Their interest should be aroused in the progress of the cause. Many may be led to have a deeper insight into the work of God and to seek for wisdom from above to extend Christ’s kingdom by saving souls perishing for the word of life. Men and women of noble minds will yet be added to the number of those of whom it is said: “Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, ... that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” John 15:16.This Day With God
Ambassadors, February 12
TDG 51.5
Christ says: “I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain” (John 15:16). As Christ’s ambassador, I would entreat of all who read these lines to take heed while it is called today. “If ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15; 4:7). Without waiting a moment, inquire, What am I to Christ? and what is Christ to me? What is my work? What is the character of the fruit I bear?—The Review and Herald, February 12, 1895.This Day With God
Promised: Strength for the Day, July 30
TDG 220.2
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).John 15:16-17
That I May Know Him
Oneness With Christ and the Father, June 16
TMK 173.5
We believe in Jesus Christ. We unite our souls to Christ. He says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit.... These things I command you, that ye love one another” (John 15:16, 17).22Letter 110, 1893.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 126—To A. T. Jones
1888 1037.1
Now the very highest missionary work to be done by the chosen of God, is that they are earnest doers of the words of Christ “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 of the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” John 15:16, 17. “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto Him, and make our abode with Him.” John 14:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 110, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 110, 1893, par. 9
We believe in Jesus Christ. We unite our souls to Christ. He says, “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 15:16, 17. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 75, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 28
What kind of an impression are you making upon the world by your unadvised movements? Christ has commanded you to love one another. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He declared, “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.] “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, That ye love one another.” [John 15:16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 38, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 38, 1899, par. 15
“Ye have not chosen me,” Christ 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 the Father in my name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:16, 17.] God’s servants are to watch and pray, losing no opportunity of speaking a word for Christ or of giving away a paper or a tract. The Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost. Christ’s love for souls will fill the heart of the sincere worker. It is a most deplorable thing that any human being should stray from God. Those who have any connection with God will work to help sinners. And there is to be perfect unity among all the workers in God’s great moral vineyard.John 15:16-19
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 59—Power of Example
1T 285.7
John 15:16-19: “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 of the Father in My name, He may give it you. 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.”Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b
Power of Example
4bSG 76.3
John 15:16-19. “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 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.”The Review and Herald
June 25, 1861
RH June 25, 1861, par. 38
John 15:16-19: “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 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.”The Review and Herald
July 1, 1875
RH July 5, 1875, par. 12
John 15:16-19: “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 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.”Testimony for the Church — No. 7
Power of Example
T07 43.6
John 15:16-19. “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 of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 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.”John 15:16-21
Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1
Chapter 38—Be Earnest and Steadfast
1NL 123.3
“Every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Continue to present your requests to God; continue to ask for the blessings which you must receive from His never-failing goodness. Knock at the door of mercy and grace with a sincerity and earnestness which shows that you will continue to knock and seek until your efforts are rewarded by the bestowal of the gifts that are needed by all who perfect a Christian character. Read John 16:32, 33; 15:16, 18-21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 95, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 95, 1894, par. 20
Christ has demonstrated that through His grace humanity can keep the law of God. He has demonstrated to the universe of heaven, and to the fallen world, that by the invitation of our gracious Sovereign, all who will believe on Him may receive pardon, and may be restored to the favor of God. He would take those whose course had been the most offensive to God, impart to them His divine power, place them in the highest positions of trust, and send them forth into the camp of the disloyal to proclaim His grace and offer a full pardon to all who will turn from sin unto God. “Ye have not chosen me,” He says; “but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.” [John 15:16.]9LtMs, Ms 95, 1894, par. 21
Some of the very ones that were brought into closest connection with the work of Christ had not only felt, but said, “Come, let us kill him,” [Matthew 21:38] and had thought that in this act they were doing God service. Our Saviour redeemed them, loaded them with divine favor, and sent them forth as changed as lambs in the midst of wolves. He made them one with Himself, and declared that those who refused to accept them and to hear the heaven-sent message, rejected the Lord Jesus Himself. “If the world hate you,” He said, “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 sayings, 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 15:18-21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 181, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 181, 1905, par. 5
“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 of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” “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 your’s also. But all these things will they do unto you for My name’s sake, because they know not Him that sent Me.” [John 15:16, 18-21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 69, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 18
“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 15:16-21.]John 15:16-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 74, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 74, 1892, par. 14
The Holy Spirit’s work is expressed in the language of Christ, “He shall not speak of himself.” “He shall testify of me.” “He shall glorify me.” [John 16:13; 15:26; 16:14.] Would that every believer would comprehend this. As the Saviour came to glorify the Father by the gift of His infinite love, so the Spirit came from the Father to glorify Christ, that the world might look and live. The claims and glory of Christ are to stand as the great center of attraction. The eye of the world is not to rest upon the human agent, but on Christ whom he lifts up before them. Man is to be lost sight of. Christ is to be the sole object of attraction. Never will the church meet her obligation until self is hid in Christ and the fullness of the grace of Christ alone shall catch the attention and rivet the mind. God calls for the living agency to convey to the world the fullness of His grace. This grace, this matchless love, this glory of the character of Christ, has been so slightly dwelt upon that man has been placed where Christ should be.7LtMs, Lt 74, 1892, par. 16
The mission of Christ from the throne of heaven to our world, the great plan of redemption He wrought out from the manger to the cross, contains in it the principle of every mission. While standing under the shadows of the cross of Calvary, can we alone catch the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness? Shall we not flash these beams of light upon the souls and in the pathway of those who are in darkness, even to the ends of the earth? Hath not God chosen us? Let us hear His own words which fell from His divine lips: “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.” [John 15:16.]John 15:17
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 27—“Who is My Neighbour?”
COL 381.1
The Samaritan had fulfilled the command, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself,” thus showing that he was more righteous than those by whom he was denounced. Risking his own life, he had treated the wounded man as his brother. This Samaritan represents Christ. Our Saviour manifested for us a love that the love of man can never equal. When we were bruised and dying, He had pity upon us. He did not pass us by on the other side, and leave us, helpless and hopeless, to perish. He did not remain in His holy, happy home, where He was beloved by all the heavenly host. He beheld our sore need, He undertook our case, and identified His interests with those of humanity. He died to save His enemies. He prayed for His murderers. Pointing to His own example, He says to His followers, “These things I command you, that ye love one another”; “as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 15:17; 13:34.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan
DA 503.6
In the story of the good Samaritan, Jesus gave a picture of Himself and His mission. Man had been deceived, bruised, robbed, and ruined by Satan, and left to perish; but the Saviour had compassion on our helpless condition. He left His glory, to come to our rescue. He found us ready to die, and He undertook our case. He healed our wounds. He covered us with His robe of righteousness. He opened to us a refuge of safety, and made complete provision for us at His own charges. He died to redeem us. Pointing to His own example, He says to His followers, “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 15:17; 13:34.The Upward Look
Love as Christ Loves, January 17
UL 31.1
These things I command you, that ye love one another. John 15:17.This Day With God
Love Fulfills the Law, December 22
TDG 365.3
When enshrouded in the cloudy pillar He spake to the children of Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:17, 18). “These things I command you, that ye love one another” (John 15:17).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 36
When enshrouded in the cloudy pillar He spake to the children of Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart. Thou shalt not in any wise rebuke thy neighbor and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, or bear any grudge upon thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. I am the Lord.” [Leviticus 19:17, 18.] “These things I command you that ye love one another.” [John 15:17.] 1 John 2:9-11; 4:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 16, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 16, 1892, par. 2
When enshrouded in the cloudy pillar He spake to the children of Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt not in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the Lord.” [Leviticus 19:17, 18.] “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [John 15:17.]John 15:17-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 126, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 126, 1897, par. 15
“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 sayings, they will keep yours also.” [John 15:17-20.] What reproach they heaped upon Christ! Shall we complain when we are made partakers of His reproach? Those who have drawn away from us, who have not remained in the truth, will talk, they will fabricate reasons as to why they did not remain steadfast. They will do just as Satan did, cast reproach upon some one else. God will be accused of unfairness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 186, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 186, 1897, par. 15
“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 its own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” [John 15:17-19.] We read of the false witness borne of Christ, and we know that every child of rebellion will do this evil work. If they spoke against Christ, who was without spot or stain, they will surely speak against His followers. What reproach they heaped upon Christ. Shall we complain when we are made partakers of His reproach? “Remember the word that I spake unto you,” Christ said, “The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my sayings, they will keep yours also.” [Verse 20.]John 15:17-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 28, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 9
Jesus said, “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 15:17-21.]John 15:18
Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Duties and Privileges of the Christian Laborer
GW92 468.1
Will it make you sad to be buffeted, despised, derided, maligned by the world? It ought not; for Jesus told us just how it would be. “If the world hate you,” he says, “ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” The apostle Paul, the great hero of faith, testifies, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” [John 15:18; Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17.] Look up, my brethren, look up. Let the love of God into your souls. Through Jesus the treasures of heaven are at our command, and what is there that he will not do for us? The Father also loves us, and is waiting to be gracious. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.]Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 60—Conflict and Conformity
2MCP 557.3
The Bible plainly teaches that there can be no harmony between the people of God and the world. “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you” (1 John 3:13). Our Saviour says, “Ye know that it hated Me before it hated you” (John 15:18). Satan works through the ungodly, under cover of a pretended friendship, to allure God’s people into sin that he may separate them from Him; and when their defense is removed, then he will lead his agents to turn against them and seek to accomplish their destruction.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 559 (1890).Our High Calling
The Struggle Against Wind and Tide, December 19
OHC 359.6
The true follower of Christ should not be dismayed at receiving reproach from this class. Said the beloved apostle, “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” 1 John 3:13. And our Saviour reminds His disciples, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” John 15:18. Those who are faithful to God will not be harmed by reproach or opposition. Nay, rather, virtues will thus be developed that will not flourish in the sunshine of prosperity. Faith, patience, meekness, and love will bud and blossom amid clouds and darkness.45The Signs of the Times, January 12, 1882.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 53—The Earlier Judges
PP 559.1
Like Israel, Christians too often yield to the influence of the world and conform to its principles and customs, in order to secure the friendship of the ungodly; but in the end it will be found that these professed friends are the most dangerous of foes. The Bible plainly teaches that there can be no harmony between the people of God and the world. “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” 1 John 3:13. Our Saviour says, “Ye know that it hated Me before it hated you.” John 15:18. Satan works through the ungodly, under cover of a pretended friendship, to allure God’s people into sin, that he may separate them from Him; and when their defense is removed, then he will lead his agents to turn against them and seek to accomplish their destruction.That I May Know Him
Addressed to Me Personally, October 1
TMK 280.5
Will it make you sad to be buffeted, despised, derided, maligned of the world? It ought not, for Jesus told us just how it would be. “If the world hate you,” He says, “ye know that it hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). The apostle Paul, the great hero of faith, testifies: “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18). “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17).2Ibid.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 2, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 15
“I will be a Father unto you,” and what next? “and ye shall be sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:18.] What, will you be members of the Lord in heaven, children of the heavenly King? Now you who think you will preserve your dignity, you who are aspiring for distinction, and you who are struggling and making every effort for your life to conform just as nigh to the world as you can, in order to obtain distinction, and in order that you may have a name and that you may have esteem, those who have no love for God, let me tell you that you are making a great mistake. He says, “I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” Then what if we are on the side of the Infinite One, what if we are on the side of Jesus Christ, what if we shall have no influence? He says, “If the world hate you, you may know that it hated Me before it hated you.” [John 15:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 55, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 32
This prophecy of enmity between Satan and Christ is far-reaching. It is a delineation of an unwearied conflict between Christ and His followers and Satan and his angels and fallen men united in a desperate companionship to reproach, bruise, wound, and exterminate the followers of Christ to the close of time. This controversy between Satan and Christ was carried on here in this world. Satan was constantly afflicting the Son of God and creating prejudice in the minds of men. Not only were Christ’s doctrines and teachings perverted, misinterpreted, and wrested from their true meaning, but falsehoods followed Him everywhere. His pure character was assailed, and He was compelled to flee from one city to another because of the spies upon His track. The falsehoods and misrepresentations that the chief priests and Pharisees and Sadducees poured into the ears of the people appealed to the worst passions of adulterers, fornicators, and dishonest men, exciting a burning prejudice that made it almost impossible for Him to live upon the earth for even three years and a half after His public ministry began. Why, then, should those who bear the truth of God to the world be discouraged and fainthearted? Christ has said, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you.” John 15:18. Ye “are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” John 17:14. They will “revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My name’s sake.” Matthew 5:11. “Yea, the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father nor Me.” John 16:2, 3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 49, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 49, 1894, par. 32
Dear friends, we have a living Saviour, and He has not left us in this world to fight the battles alone. No. But He has not flattered us. He did not tell us, If you will believe on Me, you shall have no trials, no difficulties. He says, “If they receive you, they will receive Me. If they hate Me, they will hate you.” [See Matthew 10:40; John 15:18.] And He tells us that there shall be those “that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” [John 16:2.] That is a terrible deception that comes on human minds. But here He has shown you the plan of the battle; He tells you what you are to meet. “We struggle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] This is what we have to meet. Then what does He say? “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” [Verse 11.]John 15:18-19
Christ Triumphant
Christ’s Followers Will Be Hated by the World, September 30
CTr 280.1
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.... because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. John 15:18, 19.The Review and Herald
November 26, 1861
RH November 26, 1861, par. 9
I was shown that God is not slack concerning his promises, if his people will obey his requirements. He is faithful who hath promised. The condition of our being received of God is, to separate ourselves from the world. The followers of Jesus and the world can not unite. Please read John 17:14: “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world.” John 15:18, 19: “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.”John 15:18-20
Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1546—How Shall We Celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas?
21MR 222.2
There is something to come out from. You cannot mix or mingle with the world and at the same time be united with Jesus Christ. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. “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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 4a, 1880
3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1880, par. 9
Said John, “Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.” 1 John 3:13. Said Christ, “It hated Me before it hated you. If we 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.” John 15:18-20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 8, 1880
3LtMs, Ms 8, 1880, par. 2
There is something to come out from. You cannot mix or mingle with the world and at the some time be united with Jesus Christ. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. “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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 117, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 117, 1894, par. 4
The people of Chorazin and Capernaum hardened their hearts in refusing to receive light and evidence. Truth had been made clear and bright to their minds, and conviction had fastened upon them; but they had hardened their hearts, and had refused to be benefitted by the light that had shown upon them. The impression was wearing away, and now, while it is called today they hardened their hearts and woe fell upon them from the lips of Christ. Thus we see what peril there is in turning away from the truth. “He that heareth you heareth me, and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth Him that sent me.” [Luke 10:16.] On another occasion the Lord said, “If the world hate you, you 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.” [John 15:18-20.]John 15:18-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 9, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 27
The followers of Christ will receive the same kind of treatment that Christ experienced at the hands of men. Men who have had light and evidence will turn as determinedly from Christ as did the Jewish nation. Christ declares, “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 sayings, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they have not known him that sent me.” [John 15:18-21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 29, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, par. 18
The work of the salvation of souls is to be carried forward in our world by aggressive warfare, in the midst of opposition, peril, loss, and human suffering. Christianity is to be wrought out in self-denying and cross-bearing. By His experience in our world the Lord did not mark out a path to heaven that is easy and flattering. He declared to His followers, “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 15:18-21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 90, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 90, 1897, par. 14
Christ has ascended on high, but before He left this earth, He said to His chosen people, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hateth 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 the 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 15:18-21.]John 15:18-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 85, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 85, 1893, par. 47
The Sabbath was dwelt upon with special force, showing its importance. In stepping aside from the customs and practices of the world, they feel indeed the cross which they must endure for Christ’s sake. The result will be that there is not harmony between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. They cannot mix any more than oil and water. Listen to the words of Christ to His disciples, “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.” John 15:18-23.John 15:18-25
Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1387—The Lot of God’s People in a World of Sin; Peter’s Denial and Jesus’ Trial; Satan’s Confederacy of Evil Angels and Evil Men
19MR 162.2
[John 15:18-25; 16:1-4, quoted.] The truth of these words of Christ has been a reality in the experience of those who have been loyal and true to the God of heaven, according to the light received. “If they have persecuted Me,” He said, “they will also persecute you; if they have kept My sayings, they will keep yours also” [John 15:20]. “All that will live [not merely profess] godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” [2 Timothy 3:12]. “And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known [by experimental knowledge] the Father, nor Me” [John 16:3].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 104, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 104, 1897, par. 4
“If the world hate you,” said Christ, “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. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the works that none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hateth both me and my Father. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in the law, They hated me without a cause.” [John 15:18-25.]12LtMs, Ms 104, 1897, par. 6
The truth of these words of Christ has become a reality in the experience of those who have been loyal and true to the God of heaven, according to the light received. “If they have persecuted me,” He said, “they will also persecute you; if they have kept my sayings, they will keep yours also.” [John 15:20.] “All who will live [not merely profess] godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] “And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known [by experimental knowledge] the Father nor me.” [John 16:3.]John 15:18-27
The Upward Look
In the World But Not of the World, May 3
UL 137.1
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. John 15:19.UL 137.2
The Lord our Saviour knew every phase of experience His disciples would meet and all the conflicts they would experience. The Lord Jesus Christ said to His disciples, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). We must not as Christians become fretful and impatient over coming in contact with worldly men. They have not the belief of the truth, and whatever they say or do, keep your temper.UL 137.4
Christians can maintain an untarnished reputation if they are Christians, which means Christlike. God has made every provision that through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ they should not fail or be discouraged in a dark, troubled future, which He knew must come. The Lord Jesus Christ is grieved for His disciples, that they must pass through manifold afflictions from the world. He prepares them for that time of trial, of great temptation to lose their faith, by presenting before their minds the hopeful part of the future. He must mingle the bright, hopeful lines with the dark. “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” (verse 26).UL 137.5
Then He tells them that they will also cooperate with the Holy Spirit. The great Source of their strength—which is our changeless consolation and hope and courage—would ever be within their reach. They were to be Christ’s witnesses. “And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning” (verse 27). They should be His faithful representatives to an apostate world. While in the world they are not to be of the world, but bear a faithful testimony against the evil that is working in worldly policy plans contrary to the truth and righteousness.—Manuscript 80, May 3, 1893, “Diary.”John 15:19-20
The Great Controversy
Chapter 7—Luther’s Separation From Rome
GC 144.1
Said Jesus to His disciples: “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.” John 15:19, 20. And on the other hand our Lord declared plainly: “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” Luke 6:26. The spirit of the world is no more in harmony with the spirit of Christ today than in earlier times, and those who preach the word of God in its purity will be received with no greater favor now than then. The forms of opposition to the truth may change, the enmity may be less open because it is more subtle; but the same antagonism still exists and will be manifested to the end of time.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 7—Luther’s Separation from Rome
GC88 144.1
Said Jesus to his disciples: “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.” [John 15:19, 20.] And on the other hand our Lord declared plainly: “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. [Luke 6:26.] The spirit of the world is no more in harmony with the Spirit of Christ today than in earlier times; and those who preach the Word of God in its purity will be received with no greater favor now than then. The forms of opposition to the truth may change, the enmity may be less open because it is more subtle; but the same antagonism still exists, and will be manifested to the end of time.From Here to Forever
A Terrible Crisis
HF 90.1
Opposition is the lot of all whom God employs to present truths specially applicable to their time. There was a present truth in the days of Luther; there is present truth for the church today. But truth is no more desired by the majority today than it was by papists who opposed Luther. Those who present the truth for this time should not expect to be received with greater favor that were earlier reformers. The great controversy between truth and error, between Christ and Satan, is to increase to the close of this world’s history. See John 15:19, 20; Luke 6:26.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 21, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 21, 1882, par. 36
These may have the form of Christianity as far as the letter in concerned, but when the crisis shall come that is now very near, these men will be unable to stand. When persecution and reproach come because of the truth, these men will find another platform. The opposition and persecution will not be slow to take their stand when God’s people have the living testimony in their midst and speak the words of truth, being endued with power from on high. When the truth is preached in its simplicity and power as it is in Jesus, it will condemn the world, and then it will be evidence that there is no concord between Christ and Belial. Then will Christ’s followers realize the words of Christ, “Because ye are not of the world, ... therefore the world hateth you ... If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also .” John 15:19, 20.John 15:19-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 134, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 134, 1905, par. 2
“If ye were of the world, the world would love his own,” Christ declared, “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 15:19-21.]John 15:20
Christ Triumphant
Persecution in Jesus’ Day; Persecution Now, August 29
CTr 248.1
If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you. John 15:20.From Here to Forever
Two Classes in the Church
HF 31.1
Many who are weak in faith are ready to cast away their confidence in God because He suffers base men to prosper, while the best and purest are tormented by their cruel power. How can One who is just and merciful and infinite in power, tolerate such injustice? God has given us sufficient evidence of His love. We are not to doubt His goodness because we cannot understand His providence. Said the Saviour, “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.” John 15:20. Those who are called to endure torture and martyrdom are but following in the steps of God’s dear Son.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 62, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 62, 1886, par. 66
The enmity of Satan will continue fierce and determined against the followers of Jesus. Christ has said to His faithful ones, “They have persecuted Me; they will also persecute you.” John 15:20. There can be no enmity between fallen angels and fallen men who have practiced the very works and sport of Satan. Both are evil—both have forsaken the good, the pure, the holy character which distinguished the life of Christ. Evil, wherever it exists, in rejecting light and truth and departing from the living God, will always league against the righteous and obedient. Fallen angels and fallen men join in a desperate companionship. This is the very union that the persecutors of the faithful entered into.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 14, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 14, 1893, par. 20
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.] We want the truth of heavenly origin. Christ said, “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.” [John 15:20.] We are children of the heavenly King.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 98a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 25
“Though he were a son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered.” [Hebrews 5:8.] Shall we then be timid and cowardly because of the trials we meet as we advance? Shall we not meet them without repining and complaints? “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.” [John 15:20.] “In this world ye shall have tribulation;” but the Lord Jesus will give us all that we ask and believe that He will bestow. [John 16:33.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 88, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 88, 1905, par. 3
Christ was soon to leave this world, but His disciples were to be left. He prayed not that they might be taken out of the world, but that they might be kept from the evil that is in the world. He sent them forth as sheep among wolves. “In the world, ye shall meet tribulation,” He told them. [John 16:33.] “The servant is not greater than his Lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.” [John 15:20.] But He promised them that when they should be brought in test and trial, He would bring all things to their remembrance.Maranatha
Intolerance and Persecution, January 23
Mar 31.1
If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. John 15:20.That I May Know Him
Suffering for the Truth’s Sake, September 26
TMK 275.1
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. John 15:20.The Great Controversy
Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries
GC 47.1
The mysterious providence which permits the righteous to suffer persecution at the hand of the wicked has been a cause of great perplexity to many who are weak in faith. Some are even ready to cast away their confidence in God because He suffers the basest of men to prosper, while the best and purest are afflicted and tormented by their cruel power. How, it is asked, can One who is just and merciful, and who is also infinite in power, tolerate such injustice and oppression? This is a question with which we have nothing to do. God has given us sufficient evidence of His love, and we are not to doubt His goodness because we cannot understand the workings of His providence. Said the Saviour to His disciples, foreseeing the doubts that would press upon their souls in days of trial and darkness: “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.” John 15:20. Jesus suffered for us more than any of His followers can be made to suffer through the cruelty of wicked men. Those who are called to endure torture and martyrdom are but following in the steps of God’s dear Son.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries
GC88 47.1
The mysterious providence which permits the righteous to suffer persecution at the hand of the wicked, has been a cause of great perplexity to many who are weak in faith. Some are even ready to cast away their confidence in God, because he suffers the basest of men to prosper, while the best and purest are afflicted and tormented by their cruel power. How, it is asked, can One who is just and merciful, and who is also infinite in power, tolerate such injustice and oppression? This is a question with which we have nothing to do. God has given us sufficient evidence of his love, and we are not to doubt his goodness because we cannot understand the workings of his providence. Said the Saviour to his disciples, foreseeing the doubts that would press upon their souls in days of trial and darkness, “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.” [John 15:20.] Jesus suffered for us more than any of his followers can be made to suffer through the cruelty of wicked men. Those who are called to endure torture and martyrdom, are but following in the steps of God’s dear Son.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries
4SP 48.1
The mysterious providence which permits the righteous to suffer persecution at the hand of the wicked, has been a cause of great perplexity to many who are weak in faith. Some are even ready to cast away their confidence in God because he suffers the basest of men to prosper, while the best and purest are afflicted and tormented by their cruel power. How, it is asked, can One who is just and merciful, and who is also infinite in power, tolerate such injustice and oppression? This is a question with which we have nothing to do. God has given us sufficient evidence of his love, and we are not to doubt his goodness because we cannot understand the workings of his providence. Said the Saviour to his disciples, foreseeing the doubts that would press upon their souls in days of trial and darkness, “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.” [John 15:20.] Jesus suffered for us more than any of his followers can be made to suffer through the cruelty of wicked men. Those who are called to endure torture and martyrdom, are but following in the steps of God’s dear Son.The Upward Look
Two Spirits in the World, September 28
UL 285.1
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 your’s also. John 15:20.This Day With God
Under His Wings, December 28
TDG 371.1
If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you. John 15:20.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 8—Peter and John Freed From Prison
TT 43.2
The disciples were not intimidated. The Holy Spirit brought to their minds the words spoken by Christ: “If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you.” “The time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” “These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them.” John 15:20; 16:2, 4.John 15:20-21
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 8—Before the Sanhedrin
AA 79.1
The disciples were not intimidated or cast down by this treatment. The Holy Spirit brought to their minds the words spoken by Christ: “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.” “They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” “These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them.” John 15:20, 21; 16:2, 4.John 15:20-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 121, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 121, 1899, par. 29
And Christ said concerning the Jewish people, “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. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but no they have no cloak for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. If I had not done among them the words which none other man did, they had not had sin; but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.” [John 15:20-24.]John 15:22
The Great Controversy
Chapter 8—Luther Before the Diet
GC 164.2
Said Christ of the unbelieving Jews: “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.” John 15:22. The same divine power had spoken through Luther to the emperor and princes of Germany. And as the light shone forth from God’s word, His Spirit pleaded for the last time with many in that assembly. As Pilate, centuries before, permitted pride and popularity to close his heart against the world’s Redeemer; as the trembling Felix bade the messenger of truth, “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee;” as the proud Agrippa confessed, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian” (Acts 24:25; 26:28), yet turned away from the Heaven-sent message—so had Charles V, yielding to the dictates of worldly pride and policy, decided to reject the light of truth.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 8—Luther Before the Diet
GC88 164.3
Said Christ of the unbelieving Jews, “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin.” [John 15:22.] The same divine power had spoken through Luther to the emperor and princes of Germany. And as the light shone forth from God’s Word, his Spirit pleaded for the last time with many in that assembly. As Pilate, centuries before, permitted pride and popularity to close his heart against the world’s Redeemer; as the trembling Felix bade the messenger of truth, “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee;” [Acts 24:25.] as the proud Agrippa confessed, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian,” [Acts 26:28.] yet turned away from the Heaven-sent message,—so had Charles V., yielding to the dictates of worldly pride and policy, decided to reject the light of truth.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 7—Luther Before the Diet
4SP 137.2
Said Christ of the unbelieving Jews, “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin.” [John 15:22] The same divine power had spoken through Luther to the emperor and princes of Germany. And as the light shone forth from God’s word, his Spirit pleaded for the last time with many in that assembly. As Pilate, centuries before, permitted pride and popularity to close his heart against the world’s Redeemer; as the trembling Felix bade the messenger of truth, “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season I will call for thee;” as the proud Agrippa confessed, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian,” yet turned away from the Heaven-sent message,—so had Charles Fifth, yielding to the dictates of worldly pride and policy, decided to reject the light of truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 35a, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 35a, 1877, par. 18
“This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.” John 3:19. “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.” John 15:22. Cf. John 9:41. It is never safe to be indifferent to light. If professedly great and good men do not obey the law of God, is it any reason we should transgress? Men who are lifted up in self-confidence and pride will venture to do many things the simple, humble Christian would never venture to do. It was the scribes, the rulers, the priests, men in holy office, men who believed their righteousness was above the whole world, who persecuted Christ. These pious pretenders were the fiercest persecutors Jesus had. They were bitterness itself, cruel as the grave. They could smite God’s dear Son. They could with revengeful cruelty exult in His weary, pale, suffering appearance. It was the teachers of the people that mocked Him while He hung upon the cross.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 29a, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 29a, 1885, par. 5
While at Torre Pellice, November 28th, I spoke in the hall where our people assembled for worship. It was Sabbath forenoon. I had spoken some little time when Mr. Mallon came in. After sitting quietly and listening a while, he arose in the midst of my discourse and broke in upon me with the remark, “Is it necessary for me to keep the Sabbath in order to be saved? Answer yes or no.” I answered promptly that this was an important question which demanded something more full than yes or no; that everyone will be judged according to the measure of light which he received. If God gave them light upon the Sabbath and they refused to accept it, they would not be saved in rejecting light given them from His Word. I then quoted the words of Christ to the Pharisees: “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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 77, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 77, 1893, par. 43
The subject of the Sabbath question was introduced. She seemed to be settling down in an easy kind of a position [so] that she did not feel her mind exercised to observe the Sabbath. How was it that so many devoted Christians had died who kept Sunday? Would they be lost? We are not in the place where our fathers were and cannot render acceptable service in doing only as our fathers did. Greater light is given to this generation than was given to our fathers. In order to be accepted as our fathers were we must be faithful in improving the light which comes to us in the privileges and opportunities of clearer light that is revealed as we advance step by step with Jesus who is the Light of the world, and walk in the light that shines upon our pathway as our fathers walked in the light which shone upon their pathway. They cherished the light and walked in the light in their day, and we must do as they would have done if they lived in our day and followed on to know the Lord. We have increased light as we search the Scriptures. Truth is constantly unfolding. We cannot be excusable to God in refusing to accept increased light because our fathers did not see the light upon the Sabbath question and kept Sunday as the Sabbath. We do not demerit their piety and say they will not be saved. They are not accountable for the light that never came to them. Said Christ in reference to the Pharisees, “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin.” John 15:22. See John 12:42-50.John 15:22-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 13, 1892, par. 21
Think how great was the light that was given to the Jews, and yet they rejected the Lord of life and glory. Jesus says, “If I had not done among them the works that no other man did, they had not had sin;” “but now they have no cloak for their sin.” “But now they have both seen and hated both me and my Father.” [John 15:24, 22.] The light became brighter and brighter, until there was no escaping the conclusion that Christ was no ordinary teacher; but when conviction is disregarded, when evidence is rejected, men are forced to take a position of active opposition and stubborn resistance. The Spirit of God followed the impenitent with warnings and entreaties, the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness illuminated the mind, but many refused the compassion of a loving Saviour and would not permit their hearts to break and melt under the beams of His love. They refused the message of mercy, refused to do what God required in the way that God required, and their offerings were as devoid of merit as were the offerings of Cain, for they mingled not with them the virtue of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour.John 15:22-25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 73, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 11
“If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin,” said Christ, “but now they have no cloak for their sin. ... But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.” [John 15:22, 25.] His works of mercy contrasted too decidedly with their pride, and selfishness, and evil actions. They could not bear to have His goodness, mercy, and tender sympathy acted out even to those whom they despised.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 30, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 30, 1902, par. 6
Then, I asked, can we be surprised that the world cannot be trusted? Christ gave His precious life to save a perishing world. He said: “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin. He that hateth me hateth my Father also. 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 hateth 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 15:22-25.]John 15:23
Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 643—Faith and Works
8MR 408.2
This is the true test—the doing of the words of Christ. And it is the evidence of the human agent’s love to Jesus, and he that doeth His will giveth to the world the practical evidence of the fruit he manifests in obedience, in purity, and in holiness of character. “If a man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” (John 15:23.) We, that is, the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost, [will come] and make our abode in him.John 15:24
This Day With God
He Is Always With Me, September 23
TDG 275.1
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.John 15:25
The Upward Look
Promise to the Overcomer, November 7
UL 325.3
When Christ was upon this earth, the people flocked to hear Him. So simple and plain were His words that the most unlearned among the people could understand Him, and His hearers listened as if spellbound. This enraged the scribes and Pharisees. They were filled with envy because the people listened so attentively to the words of this new Teacher. They determined to break His hold upon the multitudes. They began by attacking His character, saying that He was born in sin, and that He cast out devils through the prince of the devils. Thus were fulfilled the words “They hated me without a cause” (John 15:25; cf. Psalm 69:4). The Jewish leaders maligned and persecuted the One who is chiefest among ten thousand and altogether lovely.John 15:26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 71, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, par. 13
The work of the Holy Spirit is to bring men to repentance by revealing truth. Not new truth alone, but old truth, which has been forgotten and buried up, is to be presented to man in a forcible light. “He shall testify of me,” said Christ of the Holy Spirit. [John 15:26.] “He shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:14.] “He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [John 14:26.] After His resurrection, Christ appeared to the two disciples as they travelled to Emmaus, “and beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 66, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 66, 1901, par. 7
Let a class of canvassers be fitted up, by thorough instruction and drill, to handle the publications that shall come forth from the press. Those who take up the work of canvassing as a preparation for the ministry will indeed realize the truth of the Saviour’s words, “He shall testify of me;” “for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 15:26; 16:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 151, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 151, 1906, par. 24
Let all now understand the representation given by Christ, “He shall not speak of himself”—He shall testify of Me; He shall glorify Me. [John 16:13; 15:26; 16:14.] As the Saviour came to glorify the Father by demonstrating His infinite love in all His works, so the demonstration of the Spirit came to glorify Christ by demonstrating [that] “I and My Father are one.” [John 10:30.] This the true disciples of Christ will do—to so assimilate themselves to Christ that in His disciples should be manifest His great love to the world in [the] expression of their oneness in and through Christ.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 5—The Gift of the Spirit
AA 51.3
It is not essential for us to be able to define just what the Holy Spirit is. Christ tells us that the Spirit is the Comforter, “the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father.” It is plainly declared regarding the Holy Spirit that, in His work of guiding men into all truth, “He shall not speak of Himself.” John 15:26; 16:13.The Upward Look
The Holy Spirit Agrees With the Word, January 5
UL 19.1
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. John 15:26.Ye Shall Receive Power
The Nature of the Spirit: A Mystery, January 3
YRP 11.2
It is not essential for us to be able to define just what the Holy Spirit is. Christ tells us that the Spirit is the Comforter, “the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father.” It is plainly declared regarding the Holy Spirit that, in His work of guiding men into all truth, “He shall not speak of himself” (John 15:26; 16:13).Ye Shall Receive Power
The Spirit Speaks to Us, January 23
YRP 31.1
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. John 15:26.Homeward Bound
Holiness Is ...! March 15
HB 92.5
It is not essential for us to be able to define just what the Holy Spirit is. Christ tells us that the Spirit is the Comforter, “the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father.” It is plainly declared regarding the Holy Spirit that, in His work of guiding us into all truth, “He shall not speak of Himself.” (John 15:26; 16:13.)—The Acts of the Apostles, 50, 51.John 15:26-27
Reflecting Christ
Christ’s Followers to Do Greater Works Than He, January 30
RC 44.2
Christ did not mean that the disciples would make more exalted exertions than He had made, but that their work would have greater magnitude. He did not refer merely to miracle working, but to all that would take place under the agency of the Holy Spirit. “When the Comforter is come,” He said, “whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning” (John 15:26, 27).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 153, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, par. 12
“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.]The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 2—The Training of the Twelve
AA 22.1
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto My Father.” John 14:12. By this, Christ did not mean that the disciples would make more exalted exertions than He had made, but that their work would have greater magnitude. He did not refer merely to miracle working, but to all that would take place under the agency of the Holy Spirit. “When the Comforter is come,” He said, “whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of Me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with Me from the beginning.” John 15:26, 27.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 36a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 36a, 1893, par. 18
We must see afar off, we must take in the great idea we are Christians. We must cultivate faith and love. We must believe in Jesus. We as yet only half believe that God would do just as He said He would. God deals with us as free moral agents. Our consecration and service must be free and voluntary, dependent on our own persevering, diligent, and earnest effort through the grace of Christ Jesus. “The Comforter, the Spirit of truth, shall testify of me” and “Ye also shall bear witness.” [John 15:26, 27.] What is the office work of the Holy Ghost? The testimony of the Holy Spirit, and the living Christian constitutes the economy of the gospel, the living commentary by which the words of God are reiterated with divine authority to the people. The Comforter shall convince the world of sin because they “believe not on Me,” says Christ. [John 16:9.] Ye are laborers together with God. Ye are to make free declarations of God’s goodness, of God’s power to hold forth the Word of life. Show [that] His working power is with His obedient children.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 113, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 113, 1894, par. 10
Much is at stake, and may God strengthen and bless you. Deal only in the currency of heaven. Make use of the truth upon which is God’s image and superscription. The precious truth given of God is our stock in trade, and will bring us heaven in return. Meet falsehood with truth. Put truth against personal hints, references or insult. Truth is immortal, eternal. You are now having the precious privilege of testifying for Christ. “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 10 (1895)
Ms 9, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 9, 1895, par. 5
How were the disciples to obtain clear and distinct ideas of the teaching of Christ? How were they to distinguish truth from the falsehoods taught by the scribes and Pharisees? Christ promised them the Comforter for this purpose. He said, “When the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, shall come, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [Verse 26.] The Comforter is the “Spirit of Truth” and “He shall testify of me, and ye also shall bear witness of me.” [John 15:26, 27.] The testimony of the Holy Spirit and of the prophets and apostles comes to us, and through belief in it, the believers become the agencies through which every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God is repeated with the authoritative power of the Holy Spirit. The words and works of Christ are as real to believers as if witnessed by their own eyes.10LtMs, Ms 9, 1895, par. 10
The Unseen is working in every home and in every region, through His appointed agencies making Himself manifest to all men. Those who hear are also to bear witness of Him. “Ye also,” said Christ, “shall bear witness of me,” holding forth the “Word of life.” [John 15:27; Philippians 2:16.] “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.] The pure, holy lives of believers will be a living sermon, an effective argument through which the Holy Spirit may convince and convict.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 38, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 38, 1896, par. 22
“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 of me, because ye have been with me from the beginning. These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them.” [John 15:26-16:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 78, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 78, 1896, par. 20
The evidence of true value and worth in men who are in responsible positions is the fact that they have a daily Christian experience in the things of God. They find music in the words spoken by Christ, “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.] If men will receive the ministration of His Holy Spirit—the richest gift God can bestow, they will impart blessings to all who are connected with them.John 15:27
The Upward Look
Faith and Action, February 15
UL 60.1
And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. John 15:27.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 15:14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 90, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 90, 1906, par. 6
“Ye are My friends,” Christ said, “if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Why do we not practice the truth as Christ practiced it? I am instructed to say that a decided change is to be made in the spirit and the example of Christ’s professed followers, before they can understand what Christ is to them, and what all who claim to believe the truth may be if they glorify God. We must have the faith that works manifestly by love and purifies the soul; then there will be seen in the practice such love and tenderness that the Lord Jesus will be glorified in every church and in every sanitarium and school. But a decided work needs to be done before the work carried on in our sanitariums will be effectual in the conversion of the sick and afflicted, before Christ can be revealed in the simplicity of true godliness. Christ does not recognize a people who entertain the idea that their capabilities are a perfect whole and that they must have the first and highest place. The inwardness of the motives that prompt such a sentiment needs to be understood in the light of the Word of God.Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]
MR No. 817—What Being Saved Means
10MR 291.3
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 alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20).—Manuscript 138, 1897, 2, 3, 9, 10. (“The Gospel Message,” December 2, 1897.)Our High Calling
Friendship With Jesus, May 23
OHC 149.1
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. John 15:14.That I May Know Him
Privileges of the Obedient, October 17
TMK 296.1
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. John 15:14.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 54—Issues at the Gen. Conf. of 1889
1888 475.1
No haphazard advice should come from the lips of any ambassador of Christ. He should fear the Lord and have his words in accordance with the will and ways of God. This is a time for much praying and less talking. This subject is not a matter to which to give an off-hand assent or dissent. It is wonderful, sacred, solemn ground on which we stand and we cannot move recklessly without dishonoring God and ruining souls. All the universe of heaven is astir, looking to us to see what course we will pursue in this matter. 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.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Sever Earthly Affections
2TT 100.2
Says Christ: “Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” John 15:14. This is the condition imposed; this is the test that proves men’s characters. Feelings are often deceiving, emotions are no sure safeguard; for they are variable and subject to external circumstances. Many are deluded by relying on sensational impressions. The test is: What are you doing for Christ? What sacrifices are you making? What victories are you gaining? A selfish spirit overcome, a temptation to neglect duty resisted, passion subdued, and willing, cheerful obedience rendered to the will of Christ are far greater evidences that you are a child of God than spasmodic piety and emotional religion.—1876, Testimonies for the Church 4:188.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 63, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 63, 1886, par. 11
I was shown years ago that there will be dissension and a lack of harmony and unity of action among the workers in our institutions unless all are subject to the authority of God. He will stand as Commander if each will obey His directions; but there must also be a visible head who fears God. The Lord will never accept a careless, disorderly company of workers; neither will He undertake to lead forward and upward to noble heights and certain victories those who are self-willed and disobedient. The soul’s progress means the Saviour’s rule. The heart through which He diffuses His peace and joy and the blessed fruits of His love is the heart which becomes His temple and His throne. “Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Our institutions are far beneath what God would have them, because those connected with them are not in fellowship with Him. They are not growing men. They are not ever learning of Jesus, therefore they are not becoming more and more efficient. If they would come close to Him and seek His help, He would walk with them and talk with them; He would be their Counsellor in all things and would grant to them as He did to Daniel heavenly wisdom and understanding.