EGW WritingsJohn 17
Ellen G. White · Page 6 of 8
Read John 17 in the BibleJohn 17:17-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 181, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 181, 1905, par. 2
The prayer of Christ is, “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” At this stage of our history we need to put stress upon this statement. This prayer was offered in our behalf, as well as for the disciples who were then with Christ. “Neither pray I for these alone,” He said, “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” [John 17:17-20.] Many should be engaged in opening the Scriptures to unbelievers, who are to be educated by the words spoken by those who believe the truth. This is a work the importance of which seems to be but feebly understood. There are many who should be consecrated to the Lord through the sanctification of the truth. We are not doing one-hundredth part of what we should be doing as believers in Christ.John 17:17-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 44, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 44, 1908, par. 1
I have just read your letter. I am so very grateful to our Saviour that He has expressed Himself to you as one who loves you; and because He loves you, He has sent messages to save you. And you have accepted the message. I feel so thankful. I told my family this morning that your letter was more precious to me than a houseful of gold. You are answering the prayer of Christ for His disciples: “That they all may be one: as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee; that they also may be one in Us.” [John 17:21.]23LtMs, Lt 44, 1908, par. 2
Just before Christ said the words, “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth,” He had given His disciples the promise, “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth.” [John 17:17; 16:13.] Through the Holy Spirit, Christ will open more clearly to those who will believe on Him, that which He has inspired holy men to write concerning the truth. And it is thus that the unity for which Christ prayed is to be effected. We are to receive sanctification through obedience to the Word and the Spirit of truth. Thank the Lord.Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1495—Answering Christ’s Prayer for Our Sanctification
20MR 361.3
“Sanctify them through thy truth” [Verse 17], Christ prayed. Error never sanctifies. The Holy Spirit is the great sanctifying power. Truth is the medium of sanctification. By reading and feasting upon the Word of God, by practicing the truth at all times, we receive power to glorify God. But the ministry of the Word is of no value to the receiver unless he has that faith which works by love and purifies the soul.20MR 361.5
Shall we not strive to answer the prayer of Christ by cooperating with him in earnest effort for our sanctification through the truth. “For their sakes I sanctify myself,” Christ said, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they may be one; as Thou Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me” [Verses 19-21].Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 65—Northern Wisconsin
1T 326.2
Honest souls will see the straight chain of present truth. They will see its harmonious connections, link after link uniting into a great whole, and will lay hold upon it. The present truth is not difficult to be understood, and the people whom God is leading will be united upon this broad, firm platform. He will not use individuals of different faith, opinions, and views, to scatter and divide. Heaven and holy angels are working to unite, to bring into the unity of the faith, into the one body. Satan opposes this, and is determined to scatter, and divide, and bring in different sentiments, that the prayer of Christ may not be answered: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:20, 21. Jesus designed that the faith of His people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those who believe through their word be one? There will be difference of sentiments.1T 339.1
John 17:17, 19: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” “And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.”Testimony for the Church — No. 8
Northern Wisconsin
T08 29.2
They are not responsible to anyone. They have an independent faith of their own. Such are allowed to have influence when no place should be given to them, notwithstanding their pretensions to honesty. Honest souls will see the straight chain of present truth. They will see its harmonious connections, link after link uniting into a great whole, and will plant their feet upon it. The present truth is not difficult to be understood, and the people whom God is leading will be united upon the broad, firm platform of truth. He will not use individuals of different faith, opinions, and views, to scatter and divide. Heaven and holy angels are working to unite, to bring into the unity of the faith, into the one body. Satan opposes this, and is determined to scatter, and divide, and bring in different sentiments, that the prayer of Christ may not be answered. John 17:20, 21. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” Jesus designed that the faith of his people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those who believe through their word be one? There must be difference of sentiments.T08 45.3
John 17:17, 19: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 26, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 26, 1889, par. 10
Christ foresaw the danger of all these things, and just prior to giving His life for the world He prayed to His Father that His disciples might be one with Christ as He was one with the Father. He prayed that His disciples might be sanctified through the truth—“thy word is truth.” [John 17:21, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 12, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 66
My brother, I have a word from the Lord for you. You have many things to unlearn before you can learn the lessons in the school of Christ, before you can be an accepted son of God. You are to use every means within your reach that will help you to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord. Heaven is a happy place because it is a holy place. Conformity to the likeness of Christ’s character, overcoming all sin and temptation, walking in the fear of God, setting the Lord continually before us, will bring peace and joy on earth and insure us pure happiness in heaven. “Sanctify them through thy truth.” [John 17:17.] “Born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible.” [1 Peter 1:23.] The seed here referred to is the truth planted in the heart—the Word of God that abideth forever. We cannot be sanctified by a mixture of truth and error. We are chosen of God through the sanctification of the Spirit.6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 68
The truth is the principle that sanctifies, and therefore it becomes us to know what is truth. We must compare spiritual things with spiritual. We must prove all things but hold fast only that which is good, that which bears the divine credentials, which lays before us the true motives and principles which should prompt us to action. “The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] Our minds should be continually brought in contact, not with men’s ideas and opinions, but with the truth; and “thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] That word, the law and the testimony, is to define the truth.6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 71
O, how deceptive is the human heart! How easy it is to harmonize with that which is evil! There is nothing more detrimental to the soul’s interest, its purity, its true and holy conceptions of God, and of sacred and eternal things, than constantly giving heed to and exalting that which is not from God. It poisons the heart, and degrades the understanding. Pure truth can be traced to its divine Source, by its elevating, refining, sanctifying influence upon the character of the receiver. The Author of all truth prayed to His Father, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verses 20, 21.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Qualifications for the Work
GW92 391.1
Jesus prayed for his disciples, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.” [John 17:21.] Just before, he said, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] And he had given them the promise, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” [John 16:13.] Through the Holy Spirit, Christ will open more clearly to those who will believe on him that which he has inspired holy men to write concerning the truth. And it is thus that the unity for which Christ prayed is to be effected. We are to receive sanctification through obedience to the word and the Spirit of truth.Testimonies for the Church Regarding the Spirit of Unity
Chapter 7—German and Scandinavian Conferences
SpTB04 30.1
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:17-19.SpTB04 30.2
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one: as Thou, Father, are in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” Verses 20, 21.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
Chapter 21—German and Scandinavian Conferences
9T 196.2
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:17-21.The Publishing Ministry
Chapter 17—Establishing Publishing Houses in New Locations
PM 201.4
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:17-21.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Christian Unity
2TT 78.1
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” John 17:17-21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 93, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 93, 1903, par. 12
The way to evidence to the world that we are Christ’s followers is to manifest unselfish love for one another, not seeking the supremacy. “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they might also be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:17-21.]John 17:17-22
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 35, 1885
4LtMs, Lt 35, 1885, par. 27
We are, as a people, professing to believe and advocate the most solemn truths ever given to man in trust for the world. But many are as far from having works corresponding to the holy trust as was the Jewish nation. The converting power of the Lord needs to go through their hearts and sanctify their thoughts and cleanse their souls as this work was needed by the Jewish nation. I am not speaking blindly or extravagantly. We need Christian love and Christian faith. We must come up higher. We must have the converting power of God, or we shall be laid aside as filthy, polluted vessels, unfit for the Master’s use. Our Lord will have a pure church. In His prayer to His Father He urged His petition in behalf of His people: “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] We have limited faith and sinful hearts, and God cannot work in power for us; and if He should work for our brethren, our hearts could not rejoice with them, for our unsanctified conceptions and discernment could not distinguish the work of God from the counterfeit.4LtMs, Lt 35, 1885, par. 28
We are in the antitypical day of atonement. Time is passing; the cases of all are being decided. Have they done the will of God? Have they correctly represented the holy, sacred character of the truth? Have they taught the law of God to others while their own hearts are not loyal and true to its requirements, and their words and characters are not in accordance with their faith? Oh, how far in spirit and in works do we come from answering the prayer of Christ, which was not limited to the first disciples, which prayer includes all the promises given to His disciples. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they all may be one in Us, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory that Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one.” [Verses 20-22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 33, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 33, 1890, par. 10
My brethren in Norwich, will you work in altogether different lines than you have been doing in the past. There are minds now occupied with things of little consequence. This is separating from God souls for whom Jesus prayed that they might be one as He was one with the Father. [John 17:22.] Will you allow Satan to throw his hellish shadow between you and your God and between you and your brethren? Will you allow little trifling things to create animosity and heartburnings? Jesus prayed that all who believe in His name might be one as He is one with the Father. Will you seek to answer this prayer? While His arms of love are outstretched to receive you all, will you not be drawn together in the arms of His infinite love? It is Satan who plans to manufacture little difficulties and cause you to build up barriers between you and your brethren of like precious faith. You are making a man or woman an offender for a word. O, how ashamed you make the angels of God in manifesting such weakness.6LtMs, Lt 33, 1890, par. 13
There are some who are in doubt and uncertainty. They greatly desire spiritual life; they need the moisture of the grace of Christ in their hearts. They need divine illumination. The promise is that if you seek Him will all your heart, He will be found of you. If you do not recognize that you have light from the Sun of Righteousness, you cannot have life, and the whole moral taste will be in danger of being corrupted. Christ prayed, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] As the believer studies the Word and beholds Christ, he will be made more and more like Christ. Through searching the Scriptures, he will know Christ whom to know aright is life eternal. Light and life are inseparable; if you are destitute of the one, you cannot have the other.John 17:17-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 103, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 103, 1902, par. 11
“Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. ... That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; ... that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17, 21, 23.] The powers of darkness stand a poor chance against believers who love one another as Christ has loved them, who refuse to create alienation and strife, who stand together, who are kind, courteous, and tender-hearted, cherishing the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We must have the Spirit of Christ, or we are none of His.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 16, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 16, 1895, par. 1
I received your letter, but shall not attempt to answer all your questions, or try to make plain all that you desire to know. But I will say, dear brother, that you need none of self and all of Jesus. When Christ abides in your heart, you will continually manifest the spirit of kindness, love, and tenderness, and will answer the prayer of Christ when he says, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word: that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]10LtMs, Lt 16, 1895, par. 5
The world’s Redeemer saw how in the transactions of life difficulties would arise between man and man, and even between His own followers, and He prayed that the Father would sanctify His disciples through the truth, adding, “Thy word is truth.” [Verse 17.] When the professed disciples of Christ seek to answer the Lord’s prayer, and manifest His spirit in their lives, what a change will appear. The teacher sent of God declared, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [Verse 19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 16, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 25
The Lord calls for reforms, marked, distinct reforms. Those in whose hearts Christ dwells will reveal His presence in their dealings with their fellow men. But the principles of some have been so long perverted that they have lost their discernment, and the arrow seldom reaches its mark. How can this be cured? Only by heeding Christ’s prayer, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. [And for their sakes I sanctify myself,] that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17-19.] There is no roundabout way in which the work of sanctification can take place.16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 29
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.] O precious, blessed Saviour, I thank Thee for Thy Word. I praise Thy holy name. We are all included in that prayer. “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.] This is the purpose which God wishes to see fulfilled. All heaven is longing to see men turning from their unrighteousness, their crooked ways, and seeking grace from the Spirit of Jesus Christ, that each may work from pure, unselfish motives. Love for God and the Redeemer, and tender regard for one another, which leads to unselfish effort to help and bless, these are the credentials Christians are to bear to the world that God sent His Son to this earth that all might believe in Him and be saved.16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 34
“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” This is the standard—to reveal the oneness which exists between the Father and the Son. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 22, 23.] Who will now seek to reform in character, to answer the prayer of Christ by being made perfect in one, that by this tender, Christlike union the world may be assured of the miracle-working power of Him whom God sent into the world?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 65, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 12
You are not to feel that you can be an independent whole. While you feel this, your work cannot be perfect. Christ declared, “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one.” [John 17:23.] You are on missionary ground. If you cannot work in connection with your brethren, seeking to preserve the unity prayed for by Christ, if you cannot labor for the upbuilding of the cause, then for Christ’s sake do not remain; for you will only weaken and undermine, causing anxiety and worry, and standing in the way as a stumbling block. You will certainly come to this unless by the divine Spirit you are lifted out of and away from yourself.15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 25
In the Saviour’s presence God’s people will have no fear of evil. The ever-varying perplexities, the abrupt, unexpected changes, the new phases of this age, will not baffle or discourage them, but will give them fortitude and courage, bracing them for the work. They will answer Christ’s prayer, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified” (through the high estimate they place upon themselves? No; no) “through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:17-20.]15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 26
This is not a make-believe faith, but a genuine faith, which works by love and purifies the soul. “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 21-23.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1353—The Great Controversy; Satan’s Rebellion in Heaven; Our Need for God’s Spirit
18MR 366.2
Christ prayed for His disciples, [John 17:17-23, quoted]. God has expressed His will in this prayer of Christ for the unity of His believing people. But there is an unwearied conflict kept up upon this earth, polluted and marred with the curse. Satan works to make the prayer of Christ of none effect. He makes continual efforts to create bitterness and discord; for where there is unity there is strength, a oneness which all the powers of hell cannot break. And all who shall aid the enemies of God by bringing weakness and sorrow and discouragement upon any of God’s people, through their own perverse ways and tempers, are working directly against the prayer of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 136, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 136, 1900, par. 12
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]15LtMs, Lt 136, 1900, par. 16
The Lord has been greatly dishonored by the spirit and attitude of the head physicians in our sanitariums [in] placing themselves first, so managing matters that they reveal a spirit entirely opposed to the prayer of Christ. There must be a continual striving for unity. We can do nothing to advance the work till Christ dwells in our hearts by faith, till His truth is our spiritual food, and we reach the highest attainment which the prayer of Christ enables us to reach. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verse 23.] To the physicians, managers, and directors in the sanitariums, I would say, On this subject of unity you cannot be too urgent. Everything which savors of selfishness in striving for the power of mastery is an offense to God. On this subject Paul writes, “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” [Colossians 2:19.] This symbolizes the relation which those in every line of work in our sanitariums should sustain to one another. And it is written also for the laborers in the gospel ministry. These are not set to pick and choose, receive or discard, the laborers as they will be inclined to do if they follow the suggestions of their hereditary and cultivated traits of character. The members of Christ’s body have not all the same office, but the different members are to be united to one Head, and each member is to be respected and is to do <his or her> individual work under the one Head.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 96, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 96, 1900, par. 20
[Jesus said:] I sanctify Myself, consecrate and devote Myself to the work appointed Me of My Father, that My disciples also may be sanctified through the truth, and be prepared to do their work. “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 67, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 67, 1903, par. 11
“In Christ’s prayer for His disciples He petitioned His Father: ‘Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.’ Who is being sanctified through the truth? ‘Neither pray I for these alone,’ He continued, ‘but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved me.’ [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 31, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, par. 5
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:17-23.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1058—How to Meet Temptation and Controversy; the Importance of Unity
13MR 328.1
[Jesus said:] I sanctify Myself, consecrate and devote Myself to the work appointed Me of My Father, that My disciples also may be sanctified through the truth, and be prepared to do their work. [See John 17:17-19.] [Verses 20-23, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 26, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 26, 1894, par. 9
In His petition for His disciples before His death, the Saviour prayed: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one: as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me have I given them; that they may be one even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 24, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, par. 9
Christ prayed for His followers, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 57, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, par. 26
Christ prayed for His disciples, “Sanctify them through the truth, Thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfect in one: and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 96, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 96, 1898, par. 2
The truth stands out clear and distinct in its native purity, and those who believe the truth will be charged with an inspiration from on high. The truth will bind up heart with heart, and its followers will answer the prayer of Christ: “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 46, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 46, 1899, par. 2
“Sanctify them through thy truth:” Christ prayed; “thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]14LtMs, Ms 46, 1899, par. 3
“I in them, and thou in me.” [Verse 23.] Nothing can bear any comparison with possessing Christ as a personal Saviour. He says to each one, “Wilt thou be made whole? Look unto me and be saved. I have borne thine iniquities. By the stripes laid upon me thou canst be healed.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 27a, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 27a, 1900, par. 20
As God’s people seek to fulfill this plan, they are answering the prayer of Christ, “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their words: that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me: that they may be made perfect in one: and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.] Wonderful, gracious words!John 17:17-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 60, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, par. 4
How deep, and broad, and far-reaching was the prayer Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion. In this prayer He said, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me; that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” [John 17:17-24.]John 17:17-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 200, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 200, 1899, par. 11
What is “the fellowship of the mystery”? [Verse 9.] We want clear, sharp, critical spiritual intelligence, that we may comprehend this mystery, which words cannot possibly explain. Through faith in Christ, Gentiles and Jews were to be united in the bonds of Christian fellowship and communion. The foundation principles of this mystery are the love and wisdom which through belief of the truth make those who are at variance one in Christ, hid with Him in God. “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. ... Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17, 20-23.]14LtMs, Lt 200, 1899, par. 14
“Father,” Christ prayed, “I will that they also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee, but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love where with thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 181, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 181, 1905, par. 11
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] Christ’s teachings are truth. Those who surrender their wills to the divine guidance will be protected from Satan’s snares. Draw nigh to God in your helplessness, and He will draw nigh to you. He will lift up for you a standard against the enemy.20LtMs, Ms 181, 1905, par. 12
“As thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world, and for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [Verses 18, 19.]20LtMs, Ms 181, 1905, par. 14
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us.” [Verses 20, 21.]20LtMs, Ms 181, 1905, par. 17
Still the Son of God urges His petition to His Father. Read John 17:24-26.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19d, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19d, 1892, par. 1
We are certainly living amid the perils of the last day, and while we may intellectually accept the theory of the truth, it will be of no saving value to us unless the prayer of Christ avails in our behalf, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] The meaning of that prayer is, Make them holy through the knowledge of the Word. “The light (Christ) shineth in darkness (the world), and the darkness comprehended it not.” [John 1:5.] Instead of welcoming that which scatters the darkness, many comprehended it not and received it not. Ministers are sent, as was John, to bear witness of that Light. The office of the messenger sent of God is not to draw the sympathies of the people to himself, but to direct the affections and sympathies away from himself, to center them upon Christ. The burden of his message should be, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [Verse 29.]7LtMs, Lt 19d, 1892, par. 32
“This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] “Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on me through their word, that they all may be one.” How full and perfect is this union to be? “As thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]7LtMs, Lt 19d, 1892, par. 33
What large possibilities are presented before us in the word spoken by Jesus! He says, “I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verse 26.] These words from the prayer of Christ are worthy of being written in letters of gold. They should be dwelt upon and presented to the world by pen and voice. But why is it that those who claim to believe the truth are not doers of the Word? Why is so little said upon these subjects which mean so much to every church and to every individual member? Think you that heaven does not look with amazement upon those who profess to be children of God, yet who pass on—inattentive, careless, disregarding the plainest words of truth enjoined upon them? Is it not time for us to consider that we must live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God? To obey one word and disregard other words will dishonor God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 40, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 40, 1894, par. 4
There are many who claim to be followers of Christ, whose names are enrolled on the church books, who have not been a strength to the church. They have not been sanctified through the truth. In the prayer of Christ for His disciples He says, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:17-19. It is not receiving the truth simply, but practicing the truth that sanctifies the soul. Let those who would be sanctified through the truth search carefully and prayerfully both the Old and New Testaments, that they may know what is truth.9LtMs, Ms 40, 1894, par. 8
The law of God requires nothing short of spiritual perfection, and through the infinite sacrifice of the Son of God, complete provision has been made that man may become a partaker of the divine nature, and through the merits of the blood of Christ be an overcomer; of himself he has no perfection. “Without me,” Christ says, “ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Provision for our perfection is found in union with Christ. “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” [John 17:23, 24.]9LtMs, Ms 40, 1894, par. 9
What pleasure could it possibly be to souls who would not be drawn to Jesus in this life, to study His character, and to be with Him in the life that is to come? They would prefer to be anywhere else than in the presence and companionship of Him in whom they have no delight. They did not know Him while in the world, and could not learn to know Him in heaven. But of His disciples Jesus said, “O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 25, 26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 135, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 135, 1900, par. 15
The Lord calls for all who will come to Him just as they are. He promises to renovate the soul through the medium of truth. “Sanctify them through thy truth,” Christ said: “thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so I have also sent them into the world.” And now comes the great lesson for every individual in regard to practical godliness and the influence of example. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17-19.]15LtMs, Lt 135, 1900, par. 16
The Lord desires every religious teacher to be sanctified through the influence of the truth. “Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ said (to his believing disciples), “but for them also which shall believe on me through their word: that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee that they also (the future converts to the truth) may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) that thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” [Verses 20-22.]15LtMs, Lt 135, 1900, par. 18
“Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 205, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 205, 1903, par. 5
“Sanctify them through Thy truth;” Christ prayed, “Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” [John 17:17-20.] This takes in all who hear the Word and receive it into good and honest hearts.18LtMs, Lt 205, 1903, par. 6
What is Christ’s request?—“That they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [Verse 21.]18LtMs, Lt 205, 1903, par. 9
“And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:22, 23.]18LtMs, Lt 205, 1903, par. 11
“Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee; but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
Letter 317, 1904. (To Sister Gray, November 23, 1904, from San Diego, Calif.)
14MR 219.1
I wish we would all be as glad that the love of God is flowing through our world, and that it may fill our hearts, conveying spiritual strength and vitality to every part of the being. We may inquire, “Is it possible that God can love us as He loves His Son?” It is possible; for God’s Word declares, “The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” [John 17:22, 23].14MR 220.2
Christ’s oneness with the Father was a constant joy to God, for He knew that there was in the world One who would not misrepresent Him. In Christ He beheld the reflection of His own character. And it was that His followers might have this same oneness, that was Christ’s great desire. For this oneness He prayed. [John 17:17-21, quoted.]14MR 220.3
It is this oneness in the church that is to proclaim the wonderful truth that God sent His Son into the world to save sinners. [John 17:24-26, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 317, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, par. 3
I wish we would all be as glad that the love of God is flowing through our world, and that it may fill our hearts, conveying spiritual strength and vitality to every part of the being. We may inquire, “Is it possible that God can love us as He loves His Son?” It is possible; for God’s Word declares, “The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:22, 23.]19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, par. 7
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:17-21.]19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, par. 9
“Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee, but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Faith and Works
A Truth Hard to Grasp
FW 108.2
Standing before the broken law of God, the sinner cannot cleanse himself; but, believing in Christ, he is the object of His infinite love and clothed in His spotless righteousness. For those who believe in Christ, Jesus prayed: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth: ...that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one” (John 17:17-22). “O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them” (Verses 25, 26).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 327, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 327, 1905, par. 8
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me: for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:17-26.]20LtMs, Lt 327, 1905, par. 10
How important that we should be rooted and grounded in the truth! No falsehood is of the truth. The Lord Jesus has promised that if we receive Him by faith and believe in Him as our pattern, He will give us “power to become the sons of God.” The gospel of Jesus Christ contains the grand principles of all truth, expressed in a life of purity. In love and true righteousness these principles are to be proclaimed to the world. In all our dealings with one another we are to obey the precepts of the law of God. “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” [Verses 19, 20.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 983—Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties
12MR 293.1
Christ prayed to His Father just prior to His crucifixion: [John 17:17-26, quoted.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]
MR No. 98—Adapting EGW Material for General Use; Uriah Smith Repents; Mistakes of SDA Pioneers Not To Be Publicized
2MR 7.1
Anyone who shall cast disparagement upon the character of men whom Jesus Christ has made one with Himself, and who has through the grace of Christ obtained moral courage to accept unpopular truth and to suffer reproach for Christ’s sake, is not working after the order of Christ. Those who have accepted the truth of God are dear to the heart of Christ. (See John 17:17-26.)Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1
Bring Forth Good Fruit
1NL 45.5
We must keep before the people veracity, justice, love, goodness, and every virtue that comes to us through the Lord Jesus Christ. In all the lowliness, meekness, and gentleness of Christ, His love is expressed to us. His spiritual life energy we must have if we are daily overcomers. All our power is derived from Him. Of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. The prayer of Christ to His Father is a representation of what we must be if we are working to be overcomers; and if we meet this representation we shall certainly bring forth good fruits. [John 17:17-26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 1, 1880
3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 76
“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” John 17:17-26.3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 78
Every member of the church has an individual responsibility as a member of the visible church and a worker in the vineyard of the Lord and should do his utmost to preserve harmony, union, and love in the church. Mark the prayer of Christ, “that they may all be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 74, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 74, 1892, par. 6
Sabbath afternoon, evening and through the night we had thunder and quite sharp lightning. The people here think it was very heavy thunder, but those who are used to hearing loud and breaking-to-pieces thunder in America, call this a very light matter. Sunday, clouds and some rain. I was not well as usual, but I attended meeting, and the Lord lifted me above my infirmities and gave me His Holy Spirit to strengthen and revive me. I spoke from John 17:17-26. I spoke one hour and twenty minutes. The Spirit of the Lord was moving upon hearts. Many were softened and subdued, and deep impressions were made upon minds. Many were in tears. The people seem to be hungering and thirsting for the bread of life and for the water of salvation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 27, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 27, 1894, par. 5
“And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me: for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Me: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:17-26.]John 17:18
Christ’s Object Lessons
The Lost Sheep
COL 191.1
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 3:1. And Christ says, “As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (John 17:18)—to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, ... for His body’s sake, which is the church.” Colossians 1:24. Every soul whom Christ has rescued is called to work in His name for the saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel. Is it not neglected today by those who profess to be Christ’s followers?The Ministry of Healing
Training for Service
MH 395.4
Of all His children to the close of time, no less than of the first disciples, Christ said, “As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (John 17:18), to be representatives of God, to reveal His Spirit, to manifest His character, to do His work.The Upward Look
Recount God’s Goodness, February 16
UL 61.5
In His prayer to His Father, He said of His disciples, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (John 17:18)....Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Ye are the light of the world.”—Matthew 5:14.
MB 40.2
Christ’s followers are to be more than a light in the midst of men. They are the light of the world. Jesus says to all who have named His name, You have given yourselves to Me, and I have given you to the world as My representatives. As the Father had sent Him into the world, so, He declares, “have I also sent them into the world.” John 17:18. As Christ is the channel for the revelation of the Father, so we are to be the channel for the revelation of Christ. While our Saviour is the great source of illumination, forget not, O Christian, that He is revealed through humanity. God’s blessings are bestowed through human instrumentality. Christ Himself came to the world as the Son of man. Humanity, united to the divine nature, must touch humanity. The church of Christ, every individual disciple of the Master, is heaven’s appointed channel for the revelation of God to men. Angels of glory wait to communicate through you heaven’s light and power to souls that are ready to perish. Shall the human agent fail of accomplishing his appointed work? Oh, then to that degree is the world robbed of the promised influence of the Holy Spirit!The General Conference Bulletin
December 1, 1895
GCB December 1, 1895, par. 19
“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us.” “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” And Jesus says, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world,”—to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, ...for his body’s sake, which is the church.” 1 John 3:1; John 3:16; 17:18; Colossians 1:24. To every soul whom Christ has rescued from the pit of sin, be he old or young, parent or child, he has committed a trust to work in his name for the saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel, even by the shepherds of the flock. Is it not neglected today among those who profess to be followers of Christ?With God at Dawn
Messengers of God, October 3
WGD 278.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 33, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 33, 1896, par. 9
The Lord treats you with respect. He does not drive you. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” [Revelation 3:20.] The religious work which God gives to young men, and to men of all ages, shows His respect for them as His children. He gives them the work of self-government in His service. He calls upon them to be sharers with Him in the great work of redemption and uplifting. As a father takes his son into partnership in his business, so the Lord takes His servants into partnership with Him. We are laborers together with God. Jesus says, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 69, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 19
“As thou hast sent me, even so have I sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] Has there not been a selfish and manifest neglect in disregarding such plain directions as are here given us of God? We are exhorted by the apostle to be living epistles, known and read of all men. And yet how many fail to glorify God in serving and praising Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 87, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 87, 1897, par. 5
“Lo, I come; in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God.” [Psalm 40:7, 8.] The thoughts of Christ in regard to Himself were that He was the Sent of God. And this is the position that all should occupy toward Christ. They should consider themselves in the service of Christ, to do God’s will in all things as Christ has done the will of His Father. In speaking of His disciples in prayer to His Father Christ says, “Thou hast sent me into the world, so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] Jesus was raised up as the servant of God His Father, to bring a message of peace and reconciliation from God to man, and to turn many from their iniquity to Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 21, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 21, 1900, par. 37
And our love is to be shown, not only in words, but in deeds, in personal ministry and sacrifice. Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.] In His prayer to His Father He said of His disciples, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] In the commission which He gave to His disciples He included all who should believe in Him to the end of time. “Go ye into all the world,” He said, “and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.] “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.” [Matthew 10:8.]In Heavenly Places
Our Mission to the World, November 1
HP 312.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18.Lift Him Up
Bear a Living Testimony, June 24
LHU 189.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18.Manuscript Release No 1033
Adams Center, New York, Monday, October 13, 1890
MR1033 7.1
My text was John 17:18.... I had much freedom in speaking the words of life to those present. The Lord, I know, gave me His Spirit and His grace in rich measure and a decided testimony for His people. There were many whose hearts seemed to be softened and subdued by the Spirit of the Lord.Our Father Cares
Our Mission to the World, June 25
OFC 188.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18.Our High Calling
“To Every Man His Work,” October 24
OHC 303.5
Now is our time to work. Now is the time for us to form characters after the divine Model.... If we know Christ, we shall reveal Him to others. “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” John 17:18. He came into the world to represent the Father; and the work He has given us is to represent His character. We cannot be excused from doing this work.52Letter 42, 1890.Reflecting Christ
God’s People to Reveal Principles, November 30
RC 348.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. John 17:18.John 17:18-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 27, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 19
The church of Christ is to represent His character. Its members, if their names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, will be united by a vital connection with Christ, as the branches are united to the living vine. “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] He devoted himself entirely to the work of saving souls. He left the glories of heaven and clothed His divinity with humanity and subjected Himself to sorrow and shame and reproach, abuse, denial, and crucifixion. Though He had all the strength <of> passion of humanity, never did He yield to temptation to do one single act which was not pure and elevating and ennobling. “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified.”7LtMs, Lt 27, 1892, par. 25
“As thou hast sent me into the world, (making me thy messenger) I have sent them into the world,” to be witnesses for me. [John 17:18.] God calls upon each of His followers to do that which He hath done efficaciously for the Father—to represent His goodness, His mercy, and His love to the world—making them partakers of His divine nature, that they <all> through believing in Christ as their personal Saviour should not perish, but have everlasting life. Thus these human agencies may so co-operate with the divine that others shall be saved through their instrumentality. All that are truly converted are commissioned of God to be lightbearers to the world.My Life Today
Christ Sanctified Himself for Me, September 5
ML 252.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. John 17:18, 19.To Be Like Jesus
When Sinners Repent, Heaven Rejoices, December 7
BLJ 359.1
As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. John 17:18, 19, NKJV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 124, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 15
Shortly before His ascension Christ had prayed, “For their sakes I sanctify myself.” [John 17:19.] I have given myself wholly to the work of human redemption. Charged with this exalted office, Christ stood as the head of humanity, the visible representative of an invisible God. “He that hath seen me,” He declared, “hath seen the Father;” and again, “I and my Father are one.” [John 14:9; 10:30.] And having embodied in Himself the love of God, Christ has imparted it to those who believe on His name, that the copies of His character may be multiplied.12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 16
“As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] They are a part of the great firm in the science of salvation, which is to work the works of Christ. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [Verse 19.]John 17:18-20
Ye Shall Receive Power
A Prayer for the Outpouring of the Spirit, June 30
YRP 190.1
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. John 17:18-20.John 17:18-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 149, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 149, 1905, par. 3
We have had much anxiety regarding workers for Loma Linda, but we now begin to see our way out of the difficulties. For this I praise the Lord. I will not doubt the promise coming from the lips of the self-sacrificing Redeemer, who clothed His divinity with humanity, that human beings, by partaking of the divine nature, might escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. No one can be a partaker of the divine nature without receiving Christ as a personal Saviour. The promise is, “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.] “As Thou hast sent Me into the world,” Christ said, “even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] What does this mean? That every soul who receives Christ by faith will work the works of Christ and will give the powers of the whole being, mind, soul, and strength, to the saving of souls who are ready to perish in ignorance and sin. Those who truly receive Christ become self-denying and self-sacrificing. They are willing and eager to work in Christ’s way and to do His will.20LtMs, Ms 149, 1905, par. 4
“And for their sakes I sanctify Myself,” living in human nature the life that they must live in order to be saved. “Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” This embraces every one who shall receive Christ as his Saviour. “That they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them, that they may be one, even as We are one. I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [Verses 19-23.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1314—Christ Our Example in Every Line of Work; Counsel on Medical Missionary Work
18MR 109.4
Clothed with humanity, Christ performed a work that revealed the invisible Father in order that His disciples might understand the meaning of the prayer, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.” But how many who claim to be His followers concede to a worldly policy! This is because their hearts are not filled with a love for the truth. They are not pursuing uncorrupted principles. God’s purpose in committing to men and women the mission that He committed to Christ is to disentangle His followers from all worldly connivings and policy, and to give them a work identical with the work that Christ did, that they might continually be Christ’s representatives in character (John 17:18, 20, 23).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 8, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 8, 1900, par. 5
Every believer begotten by the Word of truth places himself under the divine theocracy, recognizing that his will is to be in submission to the will of God, at every step inquiring His way, His methods, in preparation for the coming of our Lord in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. The result to be secured through the cooperation of the Holy Spirit is expressed in the words of the apostle, “I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” [Galatians 2:20.] The result is plainly set forth in (John 17:18-23), in the prayer of Christ to His Father.15LtMs, Lt 8, 1900, par. 7
Christ says: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word: that they all may be one”—not independent atoms, doing as they please, but united by the great, grand principles of the gospel of Christ, that the power of the gospel may be demonstrated to the unbelieving world. “That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 20-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 113, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 113, 1903, par. 11
“As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also might be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one: and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:18-23.]John 17:18-26
Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1328—Words of Counsel
18MR 172.5
We are in danger of getting above the simplicity of pure Christlikeness. We need to receive and act upon the prayer that Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion. In this prayer He said, [John 17:18-26, quoted].John 17:19
Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
MR No. 88—Materials For A Youth’s Instructor Article
1MR 377.3
“And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19). Do you love those with whom you associate well enough to forego your desire for amusement and self-pleasing that you will not place these souls in the path of temptation, that you will not beckon them to pursue a course of fun and frolic which leads to the extinguishment of serious thoughts in regard to the salvation of their souls?Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1252—Safety in Counseling Together
17MR 89.1
Christ’s prayer for His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” [John 17:19] has been left on record for us. You need to realize that you have much to learn, that you need a higher, holier sanctification of soul, body, and spirit before you can be a leader. There is great need for you to walk in humility of mind. Do not lay plans in accordance with your own wisdom. Thus you will imperil the cause and hinder its advancement.Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]
MR No. 773—Warning Regarding Future Troubles
10MR 6.1
Our message is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, with power and assurance. In a most decided, positive manner we are to show that we have not changed our faith. Do not make it appear that there is no difference between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. Build yourselves up by increased purity of faith and Christlikeness of character, increasing in the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, who is our righteousness and our sanctification. Let us show that we are a people who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus Christ. Let the truth abide in the heart. Christ declared, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19). Keep yourselves in the love of God by hearkening diligently to His commandments, looking for His keeping power, His mercy, expecting salvation through His grace.—Letter 110, 1902, pp. 7, 8, 10, 11. (To Dr. David Paulson, July 7, 1902.)Maranatha
Representatives of the Saviour, April 14
Mar 112.3
The followers of Christ are to be separate from the world in principles and interests, but they are not to isolate themselves from the world. The Saviour mingled constantly with men, not to encourage them in anything that was not in accordance with God’s will, but to uplift and ennoble them. “I sanctify myself,” He declared, “that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. So the Christian is to abide among men, that the savor of divine love may be as salt to preserve the world from corruption....Prayer
Chapter 24—Intercessory Prayer
Pr 247.2
Pray for Blessings in Order to Bless Others—Our prayers are not to be a selfish asking, merely for our own benefit. We are to ask that we may give. The principle of Christ’s life must be the principle of our lives. “For their sakes,” He said, speaking of His disciples, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. The same devotion, the same self-sacrifice, the same subjection to the claims of the word of God, that were manifest in Christ, must be seen in His servants. Our mission to the world is not to serve or please ourselves; we are to glorify God by co-operating with Him to save sinners. We are to ask blessings from God that we may communicate to others. The capacity for receiving is preserved only by imparting. We cannot continue to receive heavenly treasure without communicating to those around us.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 142, 143.)Prayer
Chapter 31—Asking to Give
Pr 307.2
Our prayers are not to be a selfish asking, merely for our own benefit. We are to ask that we may give. The principle of Christ’s life must be the principle of our lives. “For their sakes,” He said, speaking of His disciples, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. The same devotion, the same self-sacrifice, the same subjection to the claims of the word of God, that were manifest in Christ, must be seen in His servants. Our mission to the world is not to serve or please ourselves; we are to glorify God by co-operating with Him to save sinners. We are to ask blessings from God that we may communicate to others. The capacity for receiving is preserved only by imparting. We cannot continue to receive heavenly treasure without communicating to those around us.Reflecting Christ
God’s Word the Means of Our Sanctification, March 28
RC 101.1
And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. John 17:19.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 36—No Caste in Christ
1SM 262.1
Jesus came to bring moral power to combine with human effort, and in no case are His followers to allow themselves to lose sight of Christ, who is their example in all things. He said, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19). Jesus presents the truth before His children that they may look upon it, and by beholding it, may become changed, being transformed by His grace from transgression to obedience, from impurity to purity, from sin to heart-holiness and righteousness of life.Christian Education
Chapter 20—Home Education
CE 175.1
Iniquity abounds on every hand, and if the children are saved, earnest, persevering effort must be put forth. Christ has said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] He wanted his disciples to be sanctified, and he made himself their example, that they might follow him. What if fathers and mothers should take this same position, saying, “I want my children to have steadfast principles, and I will give them an example of this in my life”? Let the mother think no sacrifice too great, if made for the salvation of her household. Remember, Jesus gave his life for the purpose of rescuing you and yours from ruin. You will have his sympathy and help in this blessed work, and will be a laborer together with God.Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 13—Dealing with Impure Thoughts and Suggestions
TSB 103.2
A very thorough work must be done in cleansing the soul temple from its natural depravity. The Christian must be wide awake to resist the increeping of a spirit of licentiousness among those who claim to be sanctified. When our hearts are clean, washed, and made white by the blood of the Lamb, the work will go forward in our experience that was outlined in the wonderful prayer of Christ: “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” [John 17:19].The Faith I Live By
Sanctification the Work of a Lifetime, April 20
FLB 116.1
And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. John 17:19.The Faith I Live By
Your Influence Counts! August 17
FLB 235.2
What quality is this love? ... A love for the soul that would part with selfish gratifications and practice stern self-denial in order to elevate, ennoble, and sanctify those with whom we associate. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:19. Do you love those with whom you associate well enough to forgo your desire for amusement and self-pleasing that you will not place these souls in the path of temptation, that you will not beckon them to pursue a course of fun and frolic which leads to the extinguishment of serious thoughts in regard to the salvation of their souls? Do you cultivate personal piety, ... that your youthful friends may follow where you lead the way, upward and forward to obedience to God? ... What is the quality of your love? Is it of a character to make your associates more Christlike? Will it have a tendency to bring solid timbers into their character building? 79Letter 10, 1890.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Ye are the salt of the earth.”—Matthew 5:13.
MB 35.2
Salt is valued for its preservative properties; and when God calls His children salt, He would teach them that His purpose in making them the subjects of His grace is that they may become agents in saving others. The object of God in choosing a people before all the world was not only that He might adopt them as His sons and daughters, but that through them the world might receive the grace that bringeth salvation. Titus 2:11. When the Lord chose Abraham, it was not simply to be the special friend of God, but to be a medium of the peculiar privileges the Lord desired to bestow upon the nations. Jesus, in that last prayer with His disciples before His crucifixion, said, “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:19. In like manner Christians who are purified through the truth will possess saving qualities that preserve the world from utter moral corruption.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 115—The Vision at Salamanca
1888 939.1
“Ye therefore beloved, seeing ye knew these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.” 2 Peter 3:17. Neglect no means of grace. In this you are to be an example to all in the office. Christ in His prayer to His Father said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. You are to show that there is much need of giving attention to the means of grace, that others may do as you do.Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
Chapter 6—Home Education
CTBH 72.1
Iniquity abounds on every hand, and if the children are saved, earnest, persevering effort must be put forth. Christ has said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] He wanted his disciples to be sanctified, and he made himself their example, that they might follow him. What if fathers and mothers should take this same position, saying, “I want my children to have steadfast principles, and I will give them an example of this in my life”? Let the mother think no sacrifice too great, if made for the salvation of her household. Remember, Jesus gave his life for the purpose of rescuing you and yours from ruin. You will have his sympathy and help in this blessed work, and will be a laborer together with God.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 77, 1902
2SAT 201.4
If you have received only one talent, instead of burying it say, “I have but one talent, and I must make the most of it. I will be faithful in the little things, because the Word declares, ‘He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much’ (Luke 16:10). I must use to the very best advantage that which is given me. I must not waste one jot or tittle of my powers in the gratification of appetite or pride of appearance. In my family I must be a faithful teacher, training my children for the future, immortal life. I must teach them to be honest and truthful, kind and patient. I myself must be all that I desire my children to be; for in speaking of His disciples, Christ said, ‘For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified’” (John 17:19).Homeward Bound
The Science of Prayer, May 3
HB 144.3
Our prayers are not to be a selfish asking, merely for our own benefit. We are to ask that we may give. The principle of Christ’s life must be the principle of our lives. “For their sakes,” He said, speaking of His disciples, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” (John 17:19.) The same devotion, the same self-sacrifice, the same subjection to the claims of the word of God, that were manifest in Christ, must be seen in His servants. Our mission to the world is not to serve or please ourselves; we are to glorify God by cooperating with Him to save sinners. We are to ask blessings from God that we may communicate to others. The capacity for receiving is preserved only by imparting. We cannot continue to receive heavenly treasure without communicating to those around us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 3, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 3, 1885, par. 23
We stand on the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecy is fast fulfilling. A new life is descending from on high and taking possession of God’s people. Some souls will have to advance fast or they will have to be left far behind in darkness. The judgment is hastening. The Word of God is rebuking, warning, and entreating men to reach the Bible standard, but Satan has brought about such a condition of things in our churches that it will be most difficult to bring them to their senses and arouse them to see their God-given responsibilities. If they will with real contrition of heart confess their sins, they may, through watchfulness and prayer, come off conquerors. But they must look beyond earthly gain, away from worldly advantages, to the great beyond. They must hesitate at no sacrifice for Christ’s sake, who has paid for them the penalty of the law transgressed. We are now living in the solemn period of the antitypical day of atonement. In the type, the sins of the people were, on the atonement day, to be called to mind and repented of. It was a time of humiliation and affliction of soul. The greatest care was enjoined, that every part of the service be attended to with becoming reverence, lest the anger of the Lord be displayed. The high priest was required to make the most careful and solemn preparation, and he must guard himself with the utmost diligence from all contamination. How much more, while the antitypical atonement is going on in heaven, should those who minister in sacred things be holy. “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.] Said Christ, “I sanctify Myself that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] Those who are sent to the people in Christ’s stead should be men of God, pure in life, pure in conversation, ensamples to the flock. They have a solemn work before them, “warning every man and teaching every man, in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” “Whereunto I also labor, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:28, 29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 6, 1883
4LtMs, Lt 6, 1883, par. 30
Will the ministers awake? Will the presidents take the “Testimonies” of mercy which God has given them? Will they do something, and do it now? Will they heed the prayer of Jesus, “I sanctify myself that they may be sanctified”? [John 17:19.] Generally, the people rise no higher than the minister or the president. If he is a devoted man, losing self and selfish interest in Jesus Christ, his example will have a telling power in that direction on the people.Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 12—Asking to Give
COL 142.3
Our prayers are not to be a selfish asking, merely for our own benefit. We are to ask that we may give. The principle of Christ’s life must be the principle of our lives. “For their sakes,” He said, speaking of His disciples, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. The same devotion, the same self-sacrifice, the same subjection to the claims of the word of God, that were manifest in Christ, must be seen in His servants. Our mission to the world is not to serve or please ourselves; we are to glorify God by co-operating with Him to save sinners. We are to ask blessings from God that we may communicate to others. The capacity for receiving is preserved only by imparting. We cannot continue to receive heavenly treasure without communicating to those around us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 18, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 18, 1887, par. 20
How many who are present here today will be partakers of that great redemption which has been wrought out for them? How many will overcome as Christ overcame in their behalf? How many will be determined to be partakers with Christ of His self-denial and self-sacrifice? How many, who have love for their fellow men, will, for the sake of others’ good, deny their own appetite and passions? Christ has said, “I sanctify Myself that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] He wanted His disciples to be sanctified, and He made Himself their example, that they might follow Him. What if fathers and mother should take this position, “I want my children to have steadfast principles, and I will give them such an example in my life”?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 11, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 11, 1889, par. 4
In our homes and institutions faith and works must be combined. God’s wisdom must permeate all lines of business. A great reformation must take place. God desires everything pertaining to His service to be conducted on right principles. There is not to be one standard for those bearing responsibilities and another for the workmen. It is thought that the workmen are under control, and will do just as they are told. But there must be no tampering with the conscience. Duty must be faithfully done by all. Those holding high positions must work with conscientiousness and fidelity. God expects them to set a right example, seeking to train others in right lines. Said Christ, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]6LtMs, Ms 11, 1889, par. 11
Those who walk in crooked paths, turning away from the light given by God, are deceived by the enemy. Unless they search earnestly to know the will of God, they can never enter the kingdom of heaven. God cannot bless them while they grasp every advantage for themselves. Some to whom responsibilities have been entrusted have spoken in an improper manner, exalting self, and speaking vainly of their accomplishments. Do these men realize the meaning of Christ’s words, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth”? [John 17:19.] He who searcheth the heart and trieth the reins requires truth in the inmost parts. Profession is nothing with God. He looks for fruit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 32, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 32, 1889, par. 11
Christ revealed the Father. When Philip asked to see the Father, Christ said: “Have I been so long with you and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me, hath seen the Father.” [John 14:8, 9.] Our work is now to teach men how to enter the strait gate, to tell men what they should do to be saved. We want to know what fruit is borne. Christ says: “I sanctify Myself that they may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] Have you a home religion? Do you speak kind, true words? Do you make home a place to plead with God and to teach your children to come to Him? That He bought them? Do you teach them constantly, the claim high heaven has upon them? If so, then the precious Saviour will save them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 31, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 31, 1889, par. 83
Christ could have opened before Satan the close of the conflict. He could have shown him the sinners He came to save, glorified saints in His kingdom. But He did not do this. His ears were open to the cry of misery rising from the earth. He heard the impenitent imploring mercy as they beheld the love of God revealed on the cross of Calvary. He saw a world under the mastery of the destroyer. In Him dwelt all the fullness of the Godhead, and His life was a sacrifice for the saving of the world. “I sanctify Myself,” He said, “that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] At the altar of God He consecrated Himself to the work of rolling back the clouds that covered the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 79
“Ye therefore beloved, seeing ye knew these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.” 2 Peter 3:17. Neglect no means of grace. In this you are to be an example to all in the office. Christ in His prayer to His Father said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. You are to show that there is much need of giving attention to the means of grace, that others may do as you do.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 62, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 62, 1890, par. 21
In His prayer to His Father, Christ said, “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] By your example you are to make it manifest that there is much need of attending the means of grace. You who profess to be Christians, put away your levity, your criticism, for it is an offense to God. There are men upon whom God is laying the burden of the work, that they may connect with our institutions, and you may greatly mar their experience by your own lack of piety, by your want of respect for sacred things.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 10, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 10, 1890, par. 15
“This is my commandment that you love one another.” What quality is this love? A love just as Christ revealed in His life? “Love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] A love for the soul that would part with selfish gratifications and practice stern self-denial, to elevate, ennoble, sanctify those with whom we associate. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 84
Neglect no means of grace, for in this matter you are to be an example to all in the office. In His prayer to His Father, Christ said, “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] By your example you are to make it manifest that there is much need of attending the means of grace. You in the office who profess to be Christians, put away your levity, your criticism, for it is an offense to God. There are men upon whom God is laying the burden of the work, that they may connect with the office, and you may greatly mar their experience by your own lack of piety, by your own want of respect for sacred things. God calls upon you to yield yourselves to the control of His divine Spirit, that you may be able to guide the youth heavenward. In order to do this, you need Jesus at every step.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 38, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 38, 1890, par. 14
God calls upon <the church> to be like the wise virgins, to trim your lamps, to have the oil of grace in your vessels with your lamps. Your example should be pure, elevating, ennobling. “I sanctify myself,” said Christ, “that they also [His disciples] might be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] It is the duty of every Christian to be sanctified. The church must take up her individual responsibility; it cannot be vested in any minister. They may help you, but they can never do your work. The church of God is the great depositary of truth. They must have skill, efficiency, and ability as home missionaries.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Under Discipline to Christ
CT 197.3
Said Christ, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” John 17:19. This is the work that devolves on every Christian teacher. There must be no haphazard work in this matter; for the education of the children requires very much of the grace of Christ and the subduing of self. Heaven sees in the child the undeveloped man or woman, with capabilities and powers that, if correctly guided and developed, will make him or her one with whom the divine agencies can co-operate—a laborer together with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19, 1892, par. 16
Christ said, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:19. Those who follow His example will be men of power. They will be “strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10. Ignorance in regard to the subject of health and purity is sinful, and yet we are far behind the light that has been given. The strange abandonment of principles which should have a vital connection with physical health is simply appalling. Instead of seeking for more knowledge on this subject, some seem to desire to stop every crevice through which light might come to them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 6, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 6, 1892, par. 8
The triumph of the truth is possible only when the workers carry with them an abiding consciousness of the presence of God. They should ever realize that there is a faithful witness to every word, every transaction, in the home life or among the people. In every plan devised, in every effort made, Christ is to direct. In every council, the members should speak and act as if the curtain were withdrawn, and they saw themselves transacting business in the presence of the heavenly universe. For this is the fact in the case; all heaven is looking upon the workers. In planning for aggressive warfare, let not self be made prominent; it must be hidden, wholly hidden, in Christ. “I sanctify myself,” said Jesus, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 113, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 113, 1893, par. 36
Said Christ, “I sanctify myself that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] This you need candidly to consider. What influence are you exerting in your home, and in the business transactions in connection with His work and cause? I must tell you, your heart is not in the work. Your Christian life should sanctify the whole. It should pervade every branch of human action from the first to the last, from the highest to the lowest. “Whether ... ye eat, or drink” (1 Corinthians 10:31), or “whatsoever ye do in word, or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Colossians 3:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 54, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 54, 1894, par. 1
“Salt is good: but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out.” [Luke 14:34, 35.] Salt possesses preservative qualities which prevent corruption. Christ, who was the light of the world, who was a propitiation for our sins, and for the sins of all who believe in Him, said, “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Christians should have a vital connection with God. Their lives, their character, purified through the truth, should possess saving qualities that would keep the world from going into utter moral corruption. Christians receive instructions from Jesus, their example. They should pray in faith that they may be connected with His saving grace, that the righteousness of Christ may be imparted to them. Their influence will save the world from a large amount of crime and iniquity, and work the reformation of many souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 70, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 70, 1894, par. 23
Christ says, “I sanctify myself, that as head and representative of the human family, the soul may believe on me, and may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] A religion that does not touch the heart cannot transform the character, and sanctify the life. Religious vigilance can never be laid to rest. We must stand as faithful sentinels over the mind and soul, lest Satan steal away the heavenly gifts. Dare not to cast the first stone at your neighbor, lest Christ shall say to you, as you parade the sins of others, presenting them in an aggravated light, “Let him that is without sin cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 84, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 84, 1897, par. 22
As wise teachers, parents should labor earnestly for their children, leading them to co-operate with God. They should study carefully and prayerfully how to manifest kindness, courtesy, and love, but not blind affection. True Christian parents are teachers in the home. Said Christ, “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through thy word.” [John 17:19.] God-fearing parents will pray with unfeigned lips that they may be more deeply impressed by the exceeding great and precious promises of God’s Word, and through Christ perfect holiness in His fear.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 44, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 44, 1898, par. 7
“For their sakes,” said Christ, “I sanctify myself,” in fulfillment of My previous engagement, made before the foundations of the world were laid. [John 17:19.] Thou, O Lamb of God, didst come, and offer Thyself as a living sacrifice, withdrawing Thyself from the heavenly universe, and setting Thyself apart to make a complete sacrifice. Having taken a survey of all that would be required of Him, Christ summed up the guilt to be cancelled. God’s wrath against sin and the punishment for sin must be exhausted. Christ gathered the entire responsibility to His heart, and bent His whole being to the task. He clothed His divinity with humanity and prepared Himself for the sword that was to smite Him as our substitute and surety. “Therefore doth my Father love me,” He said, “because I lay down my life that I might take it again.” [John 10:17.] He was wounded for our iniquities, bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 51, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 51, 1899, par. 3
Christ came to our world to teach every man for whom He died how to practice His virtues in his daily life. “I,” said Christ, “sanctify myself that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Christ was exalted above His associates, because He loved righteousness and hated iniquity. The Lord Jesus in His life was without sin doing that which was just and right in all things. We are to do as He did. Iniquity signifies whatever is crooked, whatever is twisted out of the right line. Oh how important that we love sound principles, sound doctrine!Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
The Young Minister
GW 104.1
Young men are to enter the ministry as co-workers with Jesus, sharing His life of self-denial and sacrifice, voicing the words of the Master, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] If they will yield themselves to God, He will use them in helping to carry out His plan for the salvation of souls. Let the young man who has entered the ministry look his calling fairly in the face, and determine to devote his time, his strength, his influence, to the work, well aware of the conditions under which he serves the Redeemer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 3, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 3, 1901, par. 9
Christ’s prayer for His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth” has been left on record for us. [John 17:19.] You need to realize that you have much to learn, that you need a higher, holier sanctification of soul, body, and spirit before you can be a leader. There is great need for you to walk in humility of mind. Do not lay plans in accordance with your own wisdom. Thus you will imperil the cause and hinder its advancement.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 3a, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 3a, 1901, par. 11
Christ’s prayer for His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth” has been left on record for us. [John 17:19.] You need to realize that you have much to learn, that you need a higher, holier sanctification of soul, body, and spirit before you can be a leader. There is great need for you to walk in humility of mind. Do not lay plans in accordance with your own wisdom. Thus you will imperil the cause and hinder its advancement.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 77, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 77, 1902, par. 49
If you have received only one talent, instead of burying it, say, “I have but one talent, and I must make the most of it. I will be faithful in the little things, because the Word declares, ‘He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.’ I must use to the very best advantage that which is given me. I must not waste one jot or tittle of my powers in the gratification of appetite or pride of appearance. In my family I must be a faithful teacher, training my children for the future, immortal life. I must teach them to be honest and truthful, kind and patient. I myself must be all that I desire my children to be; for in speaking of His disciples, Christ said, ‘For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified.’” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 110, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 110, 1902, par. 35
Our message is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, with power and assurance. In a most decided, positive manner we are to show that we have not changed our faith. Do not make it appear that there is no difference between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. Build yourselves up by increased purity of faith and Christlikeness of character, increasing in the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, who is our righteousness and our sanctification. Let us show that we are a people who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus Christ. Let the truth abide in the heart. Christ declared, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Keep yourselves in the love of God by hearkening diligently to His commandments, looking for His keeping power, His mercy, expecting salvation through His grace.Lift Him Up
The Sanctifying Power of the Truth, September 24
LHU 281.1
For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. John 17:19.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 77, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 77, 1905, par. 6
I want to publish an account of your labors in the South, but you will kill this book if you do not move discreetly. We must give no place to the enemy, but pray and watch unto prayer. Said Christ, “I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] This is the work of every true follower of the meek and lowly Jesus. Unify, unify, is the word spoken. Put away dissension. Put away fault-finding and accusing. Unity is strength. Since you do not admire the spirit of criticism, be careful not to criticize. O when shall we answer Christ’s prayer for unity? When shall we be one with Him as He is one with the Father?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 21, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 21, 1905, par. 16
Said Christ, “I sanctify Myself.” [John 17:19.] That is, He held fast to divine grace, thus controlling His words and temper. His humanity must be perfect. He must be an example for every human being, that by following Him men and women may form perfect characters. He knew that He must watch and pray always and that He must not utter a word which would give Satan opportunity to accuse Him. Let church members now cultivate self-control so that Satan cannot work through them. Let each one be sure that his character building is according to the pattern given in Christ’s character. Those who are suspicious and envious do great harm to themselves and grieve the Holy Spirit; for the attributes of the enemy are manifest in their spirit and their words. Such ones should be told that if they continue thus to serve Satan, they cannot be retained in the fellowship of the church, because others will be contaminated by their unchristlike words and spirit.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 140, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 140, 1906, par. 15
The manager of a sanitarium bears important responsibilities. Let his associates who are engaged in continuous, hard labor in the various handicrafts keep their souls searched as with a lighted candle. Unity of action in diversity of labor must be maintained. The workers are to live out the prayer of Christ, who declares, “I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Let them read the Word of the Lord, in order that they may have the wisdom that is unto salvation. The richest treasures are to be found by searching for them in the Word. Some minds will be so impressed to seek these hidden treasures as to sell all that they have in order to buy the field and come into possession of the priceless jewels of truth. Ofttimes the most lowly are in possession of the hidden treasure, which they may impart to others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 202, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, par. 1
It is my earnest desire that the meetings now being held in Merced shall be a great blessing to the people there. We are thankful that this city is having an opportunity to hear the truth of the third angel’s message. We trust that the messengers will consecrate their services to God, and by drawing very near to Him, learn how to draw near to the people. When the workers humble their hearts before God, He will manifest His grace through them, and hearts will be softened and subdued under its influence. It is the privilege of the laborers in Merced to so represent the truth in their words and deportment, that their lives will be a power to convince unbelievers of the truths they are teaching. When the workers come into the place where God can work through them, they will understand the words of Christ, “I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 15, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 15, 1908, par. 2
A very thorough work must be done in cleansing the soul-temple from its natural depravity. The Christian must be wide-awake to resist the increeping of a spirit of licentiousness among those who claim to be sanctified. When our hearts are clean, washed and made white by the blood of the Lamb, the work will go forward in our experience that was outlined in the wonderful prayer of Christ: “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 32, 1912
25LtMs, Lt 32, 1912, par. 7
All sanitarium workers, and parents, and ministers should realize their responsibility to God, to be themselves patterns of what they desire the youth to become. “For their sakes I sanctify Myself,” Christ declared, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] So those to whom the youth look for direction and a godly example should sanctify themselves. Paul directed Timothy, “Be thou an example to the believers.” [1 Timothy 4:12.] This is instruction to the workers in every institution. If they are learning of Christ daily, they will never forget how potent for good is the influence of right example. But if they are seeking only to amuse and please themselves, they set for themselves and for those within the range of their influence a low standard. Such a course can only end eventually in the yielding up of their faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 8, 1914
25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, par. 11
In His great prayer, Jesus said, referring to His disciples, “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Christ is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] And as many as receive Him, to them gives He “power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] To believe on Christ is to depend upon Him, to accept Him as a gift from God.John 17:19-21
This Day With God
Hearts Filled With Christ’s Peace, December 10
TDG 353.1
That they all may be one; as thou Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. John 17:21.TDG 353.2
As Christ came to the world to seek and to save perishing souls, that they should have the light of truth, so also hath He committed the same work to all who receive Him as their Saviour. “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:19).TDG 353.3
How important that we should be rooted and grounded in the truth! No falsehood is of the truth. The Lord Jesus has promised that, if we receive Him by faith and believe in Him as our pattern, He will give us “power to become the sons of God.” The gospel of Jesus Christ contains the grand principles of all truth, expressed in a life of purity. In love and true righteousness these principles are to be proclaimed to the world. In all our dealings with one another we are to obey the precepts of the law of God. “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word” (verses 19, 20).John 17:19-22
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 8, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 8, 1893, par. 3
Talking of ourselves and making ourselves a center we lose hold upon Jesus Christ. We feel intensely upon this subject. John 17:19, 20. Here is their work. The argument is in the last clause of (verse 21), “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (Verse 22), “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” What is that glory? Character. Changed from glory to glory; from character to character. We become assimilated to Christ. The glory which God has given Him He has given to His disciples.John 17:19-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 68, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 68, 1895, par. 4
“Neither pray I for these alone,” said Christ in His prayer for His disciples, “but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. That they may be one; as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:20, 21.] We are privileged to bear credentials to the world that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, and that His blood has cleansed us from our sins, making us light to the world. We can voice the words of John, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Christ longs to save the sinner, but He hates the sin, and He calls upon us to lay it upon the Burden-bearer, and be one with God and with Him.10LtMs, Ms 68, 1895, par. 5
“And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” [John 17:22.] This glory is given to all who have living faith in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth and take Him as a personal Saviour. You fall into despair through perplexity, and think, There is no use to pray. That is not the trouble. Feeling that you need help, you have gone to your human friends and poured our your troubles to them, but have found no relief because they are not capable of bearing your afflictions. There is one who is touched with the feelings of your infirmity, and He invites you to [come] to Him, saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; ... for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Have we that faith in the precious Saviour that will make Him unto you wisdom and sanctification and righteousness?10LtMs, Ms 68, 1895, par. 9
“And the glory which you gavest me, I have given them.” [John 17:22.] That glory is His character. Moses said to God, Show me Thy glory. “And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in goodness and truth.” [Exodus 33:18; 34:6.] This character He is willing to give to us, for Christ says, “And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Does it seem possible that the God of heaven, dwelling in light unapproachable, whose are rules the universe, could love us as He loved His Son? This is the theme which the angels of heaven desire to look into.10LtMs, Ms 68, 1895, par. 15
Heavenly intelligences wait to co-operate with those who will consecrate themselves to the service of God. Before it is too late, I ask you to consider how it is with your soul—Shall I answer to my name when the heaven roll is called, or shall I be weighed in the balances and found wanting? With God’s help you may put the armor on and educate your children to be missionaries, teaching them that Christ came into the world that we might partake of the divine image. “For their sakes,” said Christ, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] Fathers and mothers, are you sanctifying yourself by obedience to the truth, that your children may be sanctified?Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 14—An Appeal to the Brethren in Battle Creek
8T 80.1
I pray that now as never before both ministers and church members may come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness. Study prayerfully the seventeenth chapter of John. This chapter is not only to be read again and again; its truths are to be eaten and assimilated. “For their sakes,” Christ prayed: “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:19-23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 53, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 53, 1894, par. 13
The Lord has done everything that a God could do for His heritage, and He expects that those for whom He has done so much shall love one another, shall value each other in the light of the cross of Calvary. Consider the prayer of Christ, “For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth, Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also that shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:19-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 43a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 43a, 1898, par. 36
“And for their sakes I sanctify myself,” Christ declared, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:19-23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 7, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 16
“And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hath loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:19-23.] Christ brought human nature into a personal relation with His own divinity. Thus He has given a center for the faith of the universe to fasten upon.John 17:19-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 1, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 16
Christ came into our world to sway back the powers of darkness and dispel the powers of the enemy. There he comes pretending to be an angel of light, and he says, If You will fall down and worship me I will give You all the kingdoms of the earth. Just you accept something besides the truth! Shall we do it? Or shall we have the truth as it is in Jesus? He says, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit. ... As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.” [John 15:8, 9.] Now I read something which refers to the same here in the 17th chapter of John. He says, “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:19, 20.] That means us, doesn’t it? “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.] Now this is that oneness and unity that we want; and why the devil is so earnest and diligent is so that we shall not be united in the truth. There is no unity in error except for the one purpose to tear down the truth. Now Christ wants us to be one in the truth.7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 17
And He says, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [Verse 20.] “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 22, 23.] Now these words seem larger and larger to me every time I read them—“That thou hast loved them as thou hast loved me!” Can we grasp it? Is it not too high for us to take it in, and the hand of faith to lay hold upon it, that God will love those who believe on Jesus Christ as He loves His Son? What more could we ask than this, that He should love us, fallen humanity, as He loves His own Son? Yet if we believe on Him, He will love us as He loves Jesus Christ. Take it in, carry it home with you, feast upon it by day and night.7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 19
We want to educate and train the mind to lay hold upon the vast resources placed at our command. Ask what ye will, and ye shall have it because Christ has said it. We will not ask for things to gratify ourselves, but to enlighten us. This is the last prayer that Christ made for His disciples just before He left them and was betrayed into the hands of Pilate. He was pleading in their behalf. Then here is another prayer that He has to offer: “Father, I will that those whom thou hast given me shall be with me where I am.” [Verse 24.] He has done everything that a God could do that we shall be there, and if we are not there it is because we do not appreciate the price He has paid for us and take Christ as our personal Saviour. We can believe that He died for someone else, but we cannot believe that He died for us individually.John 17:19-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 68, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 68, 1897, par. 41
“For their sakes I sanctify myself,” Christ said, “that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] The Lord Jesus is the way, the truth and the life; and those who unite with Him, putting Him on, will work as co-laborers with Him, by conforming to the principles of truth. Thus to those in error and sin they show the power and force of truth. By beholding, they become imbued with truth, and unite with Christ to transform the living temple given to idols, that human beings may become cleansed, refined, sanctified, temples for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.12LtMs, Ms 68, 1897, par. 42
“I have declared unto them thy name,” Christ said, “and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verse 26.] The Lord has made abundant provision that His love may be given to us as His free abundant grace, as our inheritance in this life, to enable us to diffuse the same by being yoked up with Christ. Jesus conveys the circulating vitality of a pure and sanctified Christlike love through every part of our human nature. When this love is expressed in the character, it reveals to all those with whom we associate that it is possible for God to be formed within, the hope of glory. It shows that God loves the obedient ones as He loves Jesus Christ; and nothing less than this satisfies His desires in our behalf. As soon as the human agent becomes united with Christ in heart, soul, and spirit, the Father loves that soul as a part of Christ, as a member of the body of Christ, He Himself being the glorious Head.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 158, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 14
“The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee; but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them and I in them.” [John 17:22-26.]17LtMs, Ms 158, 1902, par. 49
The Saviour’s affection for His parents was tender and constant, but He never allowed it to interfere with the accomplishment of His God-given work. He declared, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work. He mingled constantly with men, not to encourage them in anything that was not in accordance with God’s will, but to uplift and ennoble them. “I sanctify Myself,” was His declaration, “that they also may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 203, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 203, 1903, par. 31
In the prayer that Christ offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion, He said, “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] My brethren, you who occupy positions of responsibility in the Lord’s service, remember that Bible truth is not of the least value to you unless by it you are sanctified. Do not endeavor to preserve your cold, unchristlike dignity. This is not religion; it is not Christianity. What you need is the light that shines in the face of Christ, to cause your faces to shine with the brightness of His love. Put away your cast-iron dignity. God has not told you to cherish any such thing. Let your hearts be filled with the love of Christ. Then Christlike sympathy will shine forth from your faces.18LtMs, Lt 203, 1903, par. 32
“Neither pray I for these alone,” Christ continued, “but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me.” [Verses 20-23.]18LtMs, Lt 203, 1903, par. 34
Bring pleasantness and sweetness into your words and deeds. Then you will understand the meaning of the words, “The glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one; I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one.” [Verses 22, 23.]18LtMs, Lt 203, 1903, par. 35
Then comes the reason that shows why it is so important that Christ’s followers should be united: “That the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [Verse 23.]18LtMs, Lt 203, 1903, par. 36
“Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee, but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 30, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 30, 1904, par. 37
“For their sakes,” Christ says, “I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one even as We are one; I in them and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:19-23.]19LtMs, Ms 30, 1904, par. 38
“Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me: for Thou lovest Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not know Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 28, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 28, 1895, par. 17
God teaches His laborers to be subject one to another, in honor preferring one another. We read the blessed words from the prayer of Christ with profit. He says, “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in me, and I in Thee. That they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. ... I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.” [John 17:19-23, 26.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 17:17-19
Maranatha
Bible Sanctification Defined, March 22
Mar 89.1
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. John 17:17.Mar 89.3
“And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:19. “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” 1 Peter 1:22. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1....Maranatha
In Harmony With His Law, August 11
Mar 231.4
True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17, 19). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16). What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the Word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him” (John 15:10; 8:29). The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC88 469.1
True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares, “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays, “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” [1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23.] The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is, and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for his disciples, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy Word is truth.” [John 17:17, 19.] And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” [Romans 15:16.] What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told his disciples, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” [John 16:13.] And the psalmist says, “Thy law is the truth.” By the Word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in his law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him.” [John 15:10; 8:29.] The followers of Christ are to become like him,—by the grace of God, to form characters in harmony with the principles of his holy law. This is Bible sanctification.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
Sanctification—Who Does the Work?
NL 13.2
True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth” (John 17:17, 19). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16). What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him” (John 15:10; 8:29). The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.The Review and Herald
May 6, 1862
RH May 6, 1862, par. 15
John 17:17, 19: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.”Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
No Sanctification to the Disobedient
1TT 113.2
“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” “And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:17, 19.True Revival
Sanctification—Who Does the Work?
TR 22.3
True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth” (John 17:17, 19). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16). What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him” (John 15:10; 8:29). The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19b, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19b, 1892, par. 26
The Saviour prayed for His disciples, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.” John 17:17. But if the receiver of Bible knowledge makes no change in his habits of practice to correspond to the light of truth, what then? The spirit is warring against the flesh and the flesh against the spirit; and one of these must conquer. If the truth sanctifies the soul, sin is hated and shunned, because Christ is accepted as an honored guest. But Christ cannot share a divided heart; sin and Jesus are never in co-partnership.7LtMs, Lt 19b, 1892, par. 32
May the Lord work upon the hearts of those who have received great light, that they may depart from all iniquity. Behold the cross of Calvary. There is Jesus, who gave His life, not that men may continue in sin, not that they may have license to break the law of God, but that through this infinite sacrifice they may be saved from all sin. Said Christ, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified,” (John 17:19) by the perfection of His example.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 60, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 60, 1894, par. 15
We are to be in the world, but not of the world. We are to be a representation of Jesus Christ. As the Lord of life and glory came to our world to represent the Father, so we are to go to the world to represent Jesus. He says, “I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” “Thy word is truth.” [John 17:19, 17.] We need, then, to become familiar with the Word of God, to study and to practice it in life. Then will the Word become the power of God unto salvation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 4, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 2
My brethren, I have a message for you. The Lord would have you put your trust in Him, and every day, from sunrise until sunset, consider your individual responsibility. The responsibility resting upon every individual, if at all realized, makes his life a very solemn one. Consider what is truth. “Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth. ... And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17, 19.] I set myself apart to the entire service of God, that I may leave others an example that they may safely follow. The perfection of Christ’s character is what we should struggle for earnestly.The Upward Look
God’s Standard Is Perfect, February 25
UL 70.5
The Lord calls for reforms, marked, distinct reforms. Those in whose hearts Christ dwells will reveal His presence in their dealing with their fellow men. But the principles of some have been so long perverted that they have lost their discernment, and the arrow seldom reaches its mark. How can this be cured? Only by heeding Christ’s prayer, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth” (John 17:17-19). There is no roundabout way in which the work of sanctification can take place.—Manuscript 16, February 25, 1901, “Testimony to the Battle Creek Church.”Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Hearing and Doing Sermon at Santa Rosa, California Sabbath, March 7, 1885 Text: Matthew 7:22-28
1SAT 16.2
Christ offers a prayer to the Father, and He uses these words in this prayer, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). I have sent them into the world as thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. (See John 17:17-19.) Mark these words, “I sanctify Myself.” Thus He observes a life of perfect obedience, for He is the perfect pattern. Then He goes on and says, “That they may be sanctified”—by what? Through emotion? through feeling? No. Through the truth. We cannot trust to feeling; we must know the truth.The Signs of the Times
August 6, 1885
ST August 6, 1885, par. 1
Text: “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17:17-19.