EGW WritingsJohn 1
Ellen G. White · Page 3 of 6
Read John 1 in the BibleJohn 1:12-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 67, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 67, 1897, par. 12
“I am the Vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch; and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will (in accordance with that word), and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” [Verses 5-8.] Here is seen the sure result to every human being who receives Christ and believes in him. “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.]12LtMs, Ms 67, 1897, par. 42
The Saviour read the heart of each one who joined himself to Him as His disciple. He knew that there were many who thought themselves His disciples, who were not. And He knew that their bitterness of spirit would be displayed if any word spoken by Christ did not harmonize with their preconceived opinions. He knew that prejudices and jealousies would be aroused at the slightest reference to their peculiar principles. And understanding, as He did, the heart and all its working, He would present the plain facts concerning His relation to humanity, His mission, and His work, that there might be no misapplication of His words when His true followers should be left alone. He would heal every soul who would come to Him as his Fountainhead. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name; which were born, not of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.]Faith and Works
Faith the Condition of Promise
FW 101.2
Again: it is written, “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:12, 13). Jesus declared, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (Verse 5). It is not a low standard that is placed before us, for we are to become the children of God. We are to be saved as individuals, and in the day of test and trial we shall be able to discern between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. We are saved as individual believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 49, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 49, 1897, par. 4
The natural growth cannot develop a symmetrical character. There must be a new birth. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.] “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Marvel not that I say unto thee, ye must be born again.” [John 3:6, 7.] The believing soul is here represented in the words of Christ. “Ye know him, for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” And His promise to His follower is, “I will not leave you comfortless.” [John 14:17, 18.]12LtMs, Ms 49, 1897, par. 23
“Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” [Verse 11.] Thus will angels minister to every soul who under temptation will resist Satan. Angels are appointed, “sent forth to minister to them that shall be heirs of salvation,” [to] minister unto them as they ministered unto Christ who was the Substitute and Surety of all who will receive Him. [Hebrews 1:14.] “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.] They occupy no middle ground. They are the subjects of faith and repentance, and are embraced in the promise, entitled through grace to come into relation with God as those whom he has addressed. “And let him take hold of my strength and make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 162, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 162, 1899, par. 19
We are God’s property, by creation and by redemption. Those who believe in Christ as a personal Saviour will take up the cross and follow Him. Christ’s whole life on earth was a doing of the law of God. In humanity, before the heavenly universe and the fallen world, He testified that those who will lay hold upon the strength of Him who is mighty, and then engage in conflict with the foe, will be victorious. Christ has conquered the enemy on every point. He is able to take away the sins of all who believe and repent. He can impute to them His own righteousness. Through the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, who proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life” [John 11:25], every man and woman may keep the law of God. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name, which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 142, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 142, 1899, par. 9
A holy tabernacle is built up of those who receive Christ as their personal Saviour. Of them John writes, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name, which were born, not of flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.] By receiving Christ and being conformed to His will, man goes on to perfection. This building up of individual characters which are renewed constitutes a structure more noble than any mortal workmanship. Thus the great work of God goes forward from point to point. Those who desire a place in His church show this by their willingness to be so conformed to the will of God that they can be trusted with grace to impart to others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 27, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 27, 1902, par. 29
“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” But consider the conditions: “Even to them that believe on his name, which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of the will of God.” [John 1:12, 13.] It is those whose natural characters have been changed by the Holy Spirit, who by the new birth have been born again, who are accepted as sons and daughters of God. Many who make a profession of religion have never been changed in heart. Christ’s words mean much. They mean that we must be born again. God declares, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] Have we received this new heart? Are our natural impulses changed? The apostle says, “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” [1 Corinthians 2:14.] It is here declared, with a distinctness that should impress every one, that human reasoning is of no advantage to souls when the truth is presented to them. Those who refuse to accept the teaching of the Holy Spirit, because hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong press for recognition, are not able to discern spiritual things. They reason from the natural conditions of the heart and mind. Every soul who does not follow the Lord fully is in danger.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 57—Christ the Way of Life
1SM 367.2
Again: it is written, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God” (John 1:12, 13). Jesus declared, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3: 5). It is not a low standard that is placed before us; for we are to become the children of God. We are to be saved as individuals; and in the day of test and trial we shall be able to discern between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. We are saved as individual believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 86, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 86, 1894, par. 5
Many have been much blessed by reading Steps to Christ, and those who have thus embraced the truth through reading are feasting their hungry souls upon the rich truths of God’s word. They are led to see what is comprehended in the third angel’s message—that all self must be renounced, all dependence in self must be given up, and the Lord Jesus must be received in the heart as a complete Saviour. They are led to believe that they are born of God, and entitled to the privileges of sonship. His Spirit witnesses with their spirit that they are children of God. It is made manifest before us that the words of John are verified when he says, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 6, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 6, 1895, par. 13
Every human agent knows for himself whether his feet are tending toward the city of our God, or tending toward the darkness of the shadow of death. There are many who claim to be Christians who are as spurious coin. They are traveling in the broad road of selfishness and sin. But he who rests upon the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, who has received Christ by faith, has the promise that he is the son of God. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name; which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12, 13.] As sons of God we are partakers of the divine nature. We know what true light is, and know the power of the grace of Christ. We have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.John 1:12-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 177, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 177, 1897, par. 115
“The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth.” [John 1:14.] “In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him.” Genesis 5:1. The missing link between beast and man we need not be particular to search for. It is not in the natural world of living, only as man himself makes it through the indulgence of liquor and tobacco and all kinds of vice which he greedily enters into. Then it is that the beasts may well refuse to own him. He places himself far below the brute creation. Man was not made in the likeness of any of the highest of the beasts that God created.12LtMs, Ms 177, 1897, par. 117
This model in its fullest sense belongs to the Son of Man. When the “Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,” “full of grace and truth,” God became one with man. “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, 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 71, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 71, 1898, par. 5
Christ is the Author of all truth. He is the science of all education. He came down from heaven to give to the world the bread of life. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] To Nicodemus He said, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you of earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.” [John 3:11-13.] This lesson was scarcely comprehended by Nicodemus at the time, but as events transpired, the mystery became plain.13LtMs, Ms 71, 1898, par. 7
“As many as received him, to them gave he power to became the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] To all who receive Christ by faith these words are applicable. And all who receive the gospel message in the heart will long to proclaim it to others. The heaven-born love of Christ will find expression. Those who have put on Christ will relate their experiences, tracing step by step the leadings of the Holy Spirit—their hungering and thirsting for the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent, the result of their search of the Scriptures, their prayers, their soul agony, and the words of Christ to them, “Thy sins be forgiven thee.” [Matthew 9:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 164, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 164, 1901, par. 15
Christ is the Sent of God. He placed Himself at the head of humanity, standing there as our Elder Brother, sharing with us all our trials and afflictions. He was tempted in all points like as we are, that He might be able to succor them that are tempted. He offered to God a perfect obedience, that man might be placed on vantage ground. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth.” [John 1:14.] Those who believe in Him may overcome, may become all that God requires them to be. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [Verse 12.] Partaking of the divine nature, we may overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. All who are truly united with Christ shall be sanctified by His grace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 255, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 255, 1903, par. 6
Those only who realize that the cross is the center of hope for the human family can understand the gospel that Christ taught. He came to this world for no other purpose than to place men on vantage ground before the world and the heavenly universe. He came to bear testimony that fallen human beings, through faith in His power and efficacy as the Son of God, may become partakers of the divine nature. He alone could make an atonement for sinners and open the gates of Paradise to the fallen race. He took on Himself, not the nature of angels, but the nature of man and in this world lived a life untainted by sin. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” “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 1:14, 12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 12, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 12, 1904, par. 27
God saw that of themselves, human beings have no power to keep His law. He sent His Son to the world to bring them this power. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” “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 1:14, 12.] Only through the grace of Christ can men and women become partakers of the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 9, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 9, 1906, par. 6
It is of the utmost consequence that we remember that we have a Shepherd who calls His sheep by name. The good Shepherd condescended to pitch His tent amidst human encampments, to teach His followers the way of life. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,” the chosen sheep of His pasture. [John 1:14.] In the prayer recorded in the seventeenth of John, the good Shepherd identifies His interests with those of fallen humanity. Think of Christ, the adored of the angels, in the attitude of a suppliant. He was a mighty petitioner, seeking at the hands of the Father fresh supplies of grace and coming forth invigorated and refreshed to impart His lessons of assurance and hope. Look at His kneeling form, as in the moonlit hours He pours forth His soul to the Father. Behold the angels watching the earnest suppliant. His prayer rises to all heaven in our behalf. He is our Elder Brother, compassed with human infirmities, and in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.21LtMs, Ms 9, 1906, par. 9
“The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] He is the Prince of heaven. In our behalf He could say, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God.” [Psalm 42:1, 2.] Here is the power that He receives, to impart to whose who receive Him. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Will those who claim to be His disciples try to understand this?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 61, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 61, 1910, par. 8
“And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” Now the terms: “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 1:14, 12.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 34—Christ Our Example
8T 206.4
When writing thus, I feel intensely, but after the instruction has been recorded, relief comes to my mind; for I know then that the subject matter presented to me will not be lost, even though the subject may pass from my mind. Those only who realize that the cross is the center of hope for the human family can understand the gospel that Christ taught. He came to this world for no other purpose than to place man on vantage ground before the world and the heavenly universe. He came to bear testimony that fallen human beings, through faith in His power and efficacy as the Son of God, may become partakers of the divine nature. He alone could make atonement for sinners and open the gates of paradise to the fallen race. He took on Himself, not the nature of angels, but the nature of man, and in this world lived a life untainted by sin. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only Begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” “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 1:14, 12.God’s Amazing Grace
Sonship, February 14
AG 53.1
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.AG 53.2
When Adam’s sin plunged the race into hopeless misery, God might have cut Himself loose from fallen beings. He might have treated them as sinners deserved to be treated. He might have commanded the angels of heaven to pour out upon our world the vials of His wrath. He might have removed this dark blot from His universe. But He did not do this. Instead of banishing them from His presence, He came still nearer to the fallen race. He gave His Son to become bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Christ by His human relationship to men drew them close to God. He clothed His divine nature with the garb of humanity, and demonstrated before the heavenly universe, before the unfallen worlds, how much God loves the children of men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 47, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 47, 1894, par. 21
I want so much that the wealthy, the honored, the men who are called princes of the earth, shall comprehend the great plans of God in giving His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. The highest nobility of earth have nothing that is good and noble only as they have received it from God, through the grace of Christ; nothing is theirs only in trust. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. ... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12, 14.] We are not in any case to neglect the poor, neither are we faithful workers if we neglect the rich.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show
DA 506.4
Because of their selfishness and earthliness, even the disciples of Jesus could not comprehend the spiritual glory which He sought to reveal unto them. It was not until after Christ’s ascension to His Father, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the believers, that the disciples fully appreciated the Saviour’s character and mission. After they had received the baptism of the Spirit, they began to realize that they had been in the very presence of the Lord of glory. As the sayings of Christ were brought to their remembrance, their minds were opened to comprehend the prophecies, and to understand the miracles which He had wrought. The wonders of His life passed before them, and they were as men awakened from a dream. They realized that “the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only-begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” John 1:14. Christ had actually come from God to a sinful world to save the fallen sons and daughters of Adam. The disciples now seemed, to themselves, of much less importance than before they realized this. They never wearied of rehearsing His words and works. His lessons, which they had but dimly understood, now came to them as a fresh revelation. The Scriptures became to them a new book.DA 509.4
Not by the decisions of courts or councils or legislative assemblies, not by the patronage of worldly great men, is the kingdom of Christ established, but by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy Spirit. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12, 13. Here is the only power that can work the uplifting of mankind. And the human agency for the accomplishment of this work is the teaching and practicing of the word of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 54, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 54, 1895, par. 10
The Lord Jesus Himself has bridged the gulf that sin has made, and the whole scheme of redemption has been put in operation to restore the moral image of God in man. “The word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:14.] Infinite wisdom is revealed in Christ. He suffered in our stead, that men should have another test and trial to prove whether they would be safe subjects for His kingdom. His blood was our ransom; His death brings life and immortality within our reach. He has risen from the dead, and has ascended on high to intercede for the fallen race. He is now at the right hand of the throne of God—our representative before the Father.10LtMs, Lt 54, 1895, par. 11
Whatever was given to Christ—the “all things” to supply every need of fallen man—was given to Him as the Head and representative of humanity. In and through Him we are complete in every grace. We share His throne. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them which believe on his name, which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of flesh, but of God.” [Verses 12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 5, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, par. 6
The Christian life is a life after Christ’s likeness. Human sympathy, and human affection and ties are not to predominate, but ever are to be held tributary to Christ. He is the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. The world was made by Him, but when He came to His own, they received Him not. The Creator of the world came to His own home, and the tenants He had graciously permitted to live in it, as a deed of love, repelled Him. One of the world’s wise men has said, “If perfect truth and holiness were to come to our world, the whole world would be so charmed with his beauty, that it would fall down and worship him.” But in saying this, he showed that he was not really wise, for Christ did come to His own, and His own received Him not. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 13, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 13, 1897, par. 7
The Lord Jesus told Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again.” [John 3:7.] You need to experience this new birth. And God has declared, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 954—Study of Growth of Ellen White’s Theological Understanding
12MR 143.2
God has a yearning desire to save the purchase of the blood of Christ from the sure result of a wrong course of action, which, if persisted in, will bring upon them the wrath of the rejected Lamb. Mercy, rich and free, is presented in the gift of Christ’s righteousness. Those who scorn this precious gift, who despise and reject the Saviour, who refuse the invitation, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me” (Isaiah 27:5), reject the offer of the attributes of a character which will constitute them sons and daughters of God. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name:” (What name? Immanuel, the Son of God) “Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:12-14).—Manuscript 26, 1896.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 83, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 83, 1903, par. 8
Christ bore the penalty of the transgressor. He alone could be a substitute for the sinner and open the gates of Paradise to the fallen race. He took on Himself not the nature of the angels, but the nature of man. He lived a life untainted by sin and suffered in man’s behalf. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 62, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 62, 1903, par. 8
“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
John 1:12
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 11, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 11, 1898, par. 1
How much the student of nature can learn of God if, at the same time, he will become a student of the Word. If we heed Christ’s words of invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] If we will come to Him with contrition of soul, and receive Him as our personal Saviour, we shall have our faith strengthened. The promise is, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in his name.” [John 1:12.] If, with the Word of God our hearts, we go forth to break up and cultivate the soil, we shall find our hearts softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit of God. Our minds will be open to the teachings of God in the natural world. We shall be the better prepared to study.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 52, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 52, 1898, par. 2
Christ is to be believed, and all who believe His Word will act upon it. They will yoke up with Christ and become laborers together with God. There are but two classes in our world—those who receive Christ, and those who reject Him. All who receive Him, believe in Him. John declares, “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.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 763—Ellen White and the Church in Adelaide, South Australia
9MR 353.2
This accusing spirit will continue till the close of time, but let none suppose that the Holy Spirit prompts them to work out Satan’s attributes. They are working under another leader. We have seen this acted over and over again in our experience. Adam was tempted in Eden. He yielded to a small temptation. Christ resisted a most powerful series of temptations. Adam fell from his integrity, and the floodgates of woe were opened to our world. Christ passed over the ground in human nature, and although tempted in all points as man is tempted, He stood and saved all who would receive Him. “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). Our Redeemer stood the test in man’s behalf. He passed over the ground where Adam fell, and redeemed Adam’s disgraceful failure and fall.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 64, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 64, 1898, par. 38
All Christ’s followers are to be partakers with Him in His sufferings. God would have us estimate the value placed on us by the price paid for us. Christ died to save us from everlasting ruin. “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.] Then should we not value ourselves when we were made to be sons of God, yes, sons of God? Obedience to Christ, holiness of soul, body, and spirit, gained by the indwelling of the grace of Christ, and cherished and matured by looking to Jesus, will make us living epistles, known and read of all men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 114, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 114, 1898, par. 26
All who will may see the mystery of godliness. It is only through a correct understanding of Christ’s mission and work that the possibility of being complete in him, accepted in the Beloved, is brought within our reach. “Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:16, 17.] This voice reaches to every one who receives and believes in Jesus. His long human arm embraces the human family; His divine arm grasps the throne of the Infinite, that man may have the benefit of the infinite sacrifice made in his behalf. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 68, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 68, 1899, par. 16
Christ’s perfect example and the grace of God are given him to enable him to train his sons and daughters to be sons and daughters of God. It is by teaching them, line upon line, precept upon precept, how to give the heart and will up to Christ, that Satan’s power is broken. “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.] This is the work, the grand and holy work of parents. They are to keep before their children the great and vital work of receiving Christ, of believing on Christ as their Redeemer, the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is the instruction they are to give to their children. All who will accept Christ by living faith will take His life as their pattern.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 56, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 56, 1899, par. 5
In the plan of God, all the riches of heaven are to be drawn upon by men. Nothing in the treasury of divine resources is deemed too costly to accompany the great gift of the only begotten Son of God. “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.] Christ was empowered to breathe into fallen humanity the breath of life. Those who receive Him will never hunger, never thirst, for greater joy than that found in Christ there cannot be.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 20, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 20, 1899, par. 9
In the training of children all the divine principles must be applied. In the conversion of parents and children, this co-operation between divinity and humanity is to be fully carried out. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Men, women, and children must submit their ways and their will to Christ. The success of every soul in the Christian life will be proportionate to the purity and cleanliness of the soul, the earnest fervor and zeal shown. Christ proclaims the principles upon which the service of God is to be conducted. It is not a sign of pure, consecrated service for every worker to hold his own ways. Every worker is to obey his leader cordially, to receive and diligently obey every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 69, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 69, 1899, par. 13
“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.] “O Zion, that bringeth good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringeth good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength, lift it up, be not afraid, say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! Behold, the Lord will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; he shall gather the lambs with his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” [Isaiah 40:9-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 43, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 43, 1899, par. 44
He who would have all from Christ must give all to Christ. Where there is a complete surrender of the being to God, there will be seen a far deeper meaning in the words, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] When these words are understood, there will be a knowledge of God and His will that will have a controlling power over the whole man. When the talent is considered as a gift from God, to be doubled by use, and returned to the giver in consecrated service, there will be a sacred regard for every human instrumentality. Masterly over-bearing and a dishonest use of the talents God has given to any of His heritage will be seen in all their cruelty.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 18, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 15
Those in the byways and hedges came in response to the call of the messenger. They had no fitness for the feast in their common, inappropriate dress; and therefore fitting apparel was provided for them. So we must put on the righteousness of Christ before we shall be ready for the banquet He has prepared. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Conditions of Salvation the Same
1MR 117.1
Under the new covenant, the conditions by which eternal life may be gained are the same as under the old. The conditions are, and ever have been, based on perfect obedience. Under the old covenant, there were many offenses of a daring, presumptuous character, for which there was no atonement specified by law. In the new and better covenant, Christ has fulfilled the law for the transgressors of law, if they receive Him by faith as a personal Saviour. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). Mercy and forgiveness are the reward of all who come to Christ trusting in His merits to take away their sins. We are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ Jesus our Saviour. Letter 216, 1906, p. 2. (To “My Dear Brother in Christ Jesus,” July 2, 1906.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 71, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 71, 1899, par. 3
“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.] Think of this. Shall we make distinction between believers because of color? Never. Among the colored people are some of the choicest souls, and shall we venture to say, “Don’t sit near me; You are black; I am white”? Rest assured that the one who takes this position needs to have his soul washed and purified from its uncleanness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 8, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 8, 1899, par. 3
All human beings are dear to the heart of God, for they are bought with a price. As a nation the Jews refused to receive Christ. He had led them in their travels as their invisible, infinite Leader. He had communicated His will to them, but in the test they rejected Him, their only Hope, and their only Salvation, and God rejected them. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in his name.” [John 1:12.] To all who receive and obey the conditions, God’s gifts flow steadily, without repentance, without recall. God has imparted His gifts to man to be used, not according to hereditary <or fanciful> ideas, not according to natural impulse or inclination, but according to His will.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 16a, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 16a, 1899, par. 8
We are made sons and daughters of God. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Christ provides the mercy and grace so abundantly given to all who believe in Him. He fulfills the terms upon which salvation rests. But we must act our part by accepting the blessing in faith. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. Thus he becomes a co-partner with Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 153, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 153, 1899, par. 42
Knowing all this, Christ bore the penalty of transgression. He was crucified and buried, but He broke the fetters of the tomb, and over the rent sepulcher of Joseph He proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He was in possession of the great gift of eternal life, and He gave gifts unto me. He sent His message of mercy and pardon to all who would receive Him as the world’s Redeemer. “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.] He had paid the price for every son and daughter of Adam, and He is abundantly able to save all who accept Him as the Sin-bearer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 7, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 7, 1900, par. 12
Will our brethren and sisters come up to the camp meetings to use all their God-given tact and talents of influence, not only to receive but to impart? This is required of every soul who has an intelligent knowledge of the truth. It is required of all who believe in Christ. “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.] This is a privilege that we should all appreciate, knowing that we have pledged our whole soul, mind, heart, and strength to serve God, to be laborers together with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 55, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 55, 1900, par. 3
I feel sorry for those who receive everything they have from God, but do not as much as say, “I thank thee, my Father, for the great love thou hast expressed for me.” O, let us individually cultivate gratitude to God. Let us thank Him for the blessing of health and reason and for His precious love, which is all that makes life worth having. “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.] Sons and daughters of God—what a close relationship! What condescension on His part to receive us into His family! What a debt of gratitude we owe to Him! Should we not express our grateful appreciation of the favors He has bestowed on us?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 32, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 32, 1900, par. 28
All who do not believe in Christ will be utterly without excuse. To all who receive Him, “to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] We need at this period of time to inquire most diligently, Is it well with my soul? Is my name written in the Lamb’s book of life?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 53, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, par. 2
Christ is our example. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] While He was in the world, He was not of the world. He was not to conform to worldly practices in order to reach the object of His life. He was not to please Himself. The highest standard must be maintained. Deviation from strict moral rectitude would mar His whole life work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 180, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, par. 4
Through this experience Christ was enabled to give power to His people. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believed on Him.” [John 1:12.] This is where our power lies; it is not in ourselves.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 91, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, par. 10
The Lord desires us to improve in prayer, and to offer our spiritual sacrifices with increased faith and power. “To them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] He has given His own Son for our redemption. If by living faith we accept Him as our Saviour, we are placed on vantage ground with God; for Christ stands before His Father, saying, “Lay their sins on me. I will bear their guilt. They are my property. I have graven them upon the palms of my hands.” In our behalf He presents before His Father the marks of the crucifixion which He will bear throughout eternity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 195, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 195, 1901, par. 6
Christ is the light of the world. Those who follow Him do not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. John declares of Christ, “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.] Behold Christ. Beholding Him brings mind and heart and character into conformity to the will of God. Thus man is enabled to follow Christ’s example. He sees that his faults must be overcome, and that his appetites and passions must be subjected to God’s will, that he must be a partaker of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. The convicted sinner, having repented for his transgression of God’s law, strives earnestly to overcome sin. He seeks to reveal the power of Christ’s grace, and he is brought into personal touch with the Saviour. Constantly he keeps Christ before him. Denying self, and lifting the cross, he follows the Redeemer from grade to grade of perfection. Praying, believing, receiving the blessings he needs, he comes nearer and nearer to God’s standard for him.16LtMs, Lt 195, 1901, par. 8
Remember that working with Christ as your personal Saviour is your strength and your victory. This is the part all are to act. To those who do this comes the assurance, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He declares, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] And the repenting, believing soul responds, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” [Philippians 4:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 97, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, par. 20
The Scriptures declare, “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.] Those who are truly sons of God show by their Christlike lives that they are members of the royal family. They love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 175, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, par. 9
May the Lord help us to seek Him with the whole heart, that we may find Him. He will not be trifled with. Those who, though having opportunity to find the true path, presumptuously depart from it will some day, when too late, realize their terrible mistake. Eternal life is for those only who continue to obey God. For them Christ has purchased salvation. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 125, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, par. 23
Christ paid the ransom by giving His own life. Gladly He accepted the charge, becoming man’s substitute and surety, responsible for the salvation of the race. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 199, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 199, 1901, par. 35
“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.] Why do we not realize the great possibilities before us? Thousands upon thousands will perish because they lose sight of what they might be through a personal acceptance of Christ, through faith in His power to redeem them and to restore in them the image of the Creator.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 153, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 153, 1901, par. 8
Man has been granted a probation, that he may work out a character like the character of Christ. And though surrounded by the moral darkness which today fills the world, he can carry out God’s purpose for him; for we read, “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.] Though sinful and erring, man is the object of God’s love and compassion. By converted, sanctified, holy men and women the kingdom of heaven is to be preached in the world, that the prayer may be answered, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 121, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 121, 1901, par. 9
Our Saviour understood all about human nature, and He says to every human being, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] As God is perfect in His sphere, so man is to be perfect in his sphere. Those who receive Christ are among the number to whom the words, so full of hope, are spoken, “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.] These words declare to us that we should be content with nothing less than the best and highest character, a character formed after the divine similitude. When such a character is possessed, the life, the faith, the purity of the religion is an instructive example to others. “Righteousness exalteth a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people.” [Proverbs 14:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 151, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, par. 5
My brethren and sisters, I present before you Christ, who is to be to us an abiding Presence. “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” will keep the soul fresh and sweet. [Colossians 1:27.] Christ was God’s gift to a perishing world. “To 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.] Let everyone be assured that it is by receiving this life-saving Gift that we secure eternal life. This is our life-insurance policy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 56, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 56, 1901, par. 12
The foundation of Christian character is a faith in Christ that is built upon solid rock. “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.] He who builds upon the Rock of Ages is safe. Storm and tempest beat against his house in vain. But he who builds upon any other foundation builds upon shifting sand.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 121, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 121, 1902, par. 10
The true principles of psychology are found in the Holy Scriptures. Man knows not his own value. He acts according to his unconverted temperament of character, because he does not look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of his faith. He who comes to Jesus, he who believes on Him and makes Him his Example, realizes the meaning of the words, “To them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] But when he takes his place at the feet of Jesus, he is enabled to see mirrored in his own wicked, sinful life the awful depths of depravity to which the unconverted human heart can sink. He catches a glimpse of the pure character of the sinless One, a glimpse of the perfection that is given to the repentant, converted sinner. Clothed in the bright robe of His Redeemer’s character, he sits together with Christ in heavenly places.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 153, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 153, 1902, par. 27
It is our privilege to be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. God has plainly stated that He requires us to be perfect; and because He requires this, He has made provision that we may be partakers of the divine nature. Only thus can we gain success in our striving for eternal life. The power is given by Christ. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 155, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 155, 1902, par. 47
Christ has wrought for us and obtained an everlasting victory, in order that He might open the door of heaven and close the door of Satan’s devises. He does not restrict his blessings to a few. In the first chapter of the gospel of John we read, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 138, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 138, 1902, par. 6
Christ took upon Himself the nature of humanity, to make it possible for Him to suffer and to die as a propitiation for the sins of the fallen race. Through His merits repentant sinners may unite with divinity. His they are by creation and by redemption. “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.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1436—The High Honor of Being a Child of God
20MR 63.1
The Lord is calling upon your husband to make a surrender of himself to God. He has been bought with a price, even the blood of the Son of God. “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]. My brother, may the Lord indeed wash all your sins away, and give you a new heart. “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that, watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” [Revelation 16:15]. [Revelation 19:6-9, quoted.]—Letter 48, 1898.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 259, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 259, 1902, par. 14
The sentence has gone forth from the cross: He who accepts of Jesus Christ by faith becomes a son of God. He is bought with a price and is fitting himself to do the work of Christ; for “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. His faith places him on the side of Christ, a fitting agent to co-operate with Him. The converted soul has been bought with a price which is above every earthly estimate. The Lord Jesus has bought him and he cannot begin to yield himself to any other claimant, for he has pledged himself: “Thou shalt love the Lord with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind: and thy neighbor as thyself.” Luke 10:27.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 132, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 132, 1902, par. 21
Christ requires every one who believes in Him to reveal in his life the fulfilment of the promise, “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.] They are bound by a most solemn obligation to show that their faith is to them a reality, that power is given them to become the sons of God. They must give evidence, by their words and actions, that they possess this power. They are to adorn the doctrine of Christ their Saviour. They are to be frank, sincere, kind, amiable, sober-minded yet cheerful, showing by example the elevating character and sanctifying influence of their faith. Thus believers and unbelievers will take knowledge of them that they are laborers together with God. The mark of Christ is upon them, because they have learned of Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 30, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 30, 1902, par. 16
Christians are to be light-bearers in the world, shining amid the darkness of sin and crime. In the kingdom of this world, the principalities and powers that take Satan as their leader must constantly be met. Following Christ’s example of cross-bearing and self-denial makes those who receive Christ children of God. “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.] They are victors in the battle of life; for they have put on the new man, “which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him; where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond, nor free; but Christ is all and in all. Put on therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any, even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” [Colossians 3:10-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 200, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 200, 1902, par. 13
The one word written above the life that Christ lived in this world in behalf of the fallen race is “Salvation.” He stood at the head of humanity to save us from eternal death. He has given us a probation; for to “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.] Through the plan of salvation He placed man on vantage ground with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 19, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 19, 1902, par. 10
“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.] “For their sakes,” He declared, “I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] God calls upon men and women to become His sons and daughters, that through them, His adopted children, He may reveal His grace to the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 25, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 25, 1902, par. 34
The love of Christ is revealed in the lives of those who believe in Him. John says, “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.] Live the life of love for God and Christ and for one another. Unite in Christian fellowship. By this unity you bear witness to the world that God sent His Son to the earth to save sinners.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 56, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 50
It is not the abundance of mercies and the many favors that men bestow upon one another that saves them. In and of themselves men have no power to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They are adopted as sons of God only because they believe in Christ. “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.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]
MR No. 108—How To Study the Bible
2MR 91.2
May the Lord help us to seek Him with the whole heart, that we may find Him. He will not be trifled with. Those who, though having opportunity to find the true path, presumptuously depart from it, will some day, when too late, realize their terrible mistake. Eternal life is for those only who continue to obey God. For them Christ has purchased salvation. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name” [John 1:12].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 239, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 239, 1902, par. 1
I am burdened over many things. While attending council meetings in Oakland, there were some things presented before us. We do not see the necessity of our ever considering we are members of Christ’s body, of His flesh and of His bones, if we are to act out the mind of God. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Romans 12:1-3. The Lord did not choose them because they were naturally better than others, but [because] they accepted grace so freely offered. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 2, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 2, 1903, par. 23
How marvellous is the love and condescension of our Saviour. “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.] By receiving Christ, men give evidence that they are born again and that they are entitled to the privilege of sonship. Because of their faithful adherence to right, Christ is not ashamed to call them brethren.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 107, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 107, 1903, par. 6
Christ came to this world in the likeness of men. This He did that He might meet human beings where they were. For us He lived a life of sinlessness, and for us He died a death of shame on the cross, redeeming us from the power of Satan. We are His by creation and by redemption. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] With sincere purpose and full faith receive Christ as your personal Saviour. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 129, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 129, 1903, par. 10
As Christians submit to the solemn rite of baptism, He registers the vow that they make to be true to Him. This vow is their oath of allegiance. They are baptized in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Thus they are united with the three great powers of heaven. They pledge themselves to renounce the world and to observe the laws of the kingdom of God. Henceforth they are to walk in newness of life. No longer are they to follow the traditions of men. No longer are they to follow dishonest methods. They are to obey the statutes of the kingdom of heaven. They are to seek God’s honor. If they will be true to their vow, they will be furnished with grace and power that will enable them to fulfil all righteousness. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 196, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 196, 1903, par. 3
I have hoped, and still hope, that Philip will yet be imbued with the Spirit of Christ and become one with Him. Through varied experiences his life has been spared. I feel a most earnest desire that he should return to the Lord, and that he may now do a work that God desired him to be doing all these years. But he cannot do the work of the Lord by halves. God would have him take his stand firmly for Christ, believing in Him, receiving Him. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 160, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 160, 1903, par. 14
“You hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” [Ephesians 2:1.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on His name.” [John 1:12.] But we cannot be accepted while we continue to transgress. We are brought to God through Christ only as we accept the obligation resting on us to obey the law and are renewed in the spirit of our mind. “Wherefore,” Paul writes, “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 15:58.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 40, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 28
The human family is God’s property, bought with a price—and what a price! As owner of the human family, Christ will redeem and sanctify them, if they will but receive Him. “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.] At infinite cost, all have been granted a time of probation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 79, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 79, 1903, par. 12
Read and study carefully the prayer that Christ offered just before His trial, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. Follow its teachings, and you will be brought into unity. Our only hope of reaching heaven is to be one with Christ, and then in and through Christ we shall be one with one another. No one is called to walk alone. In Christ life and immortality are brought to light. He has opened the way to the kingdom of heaven to those who believe in Him, but He assigns to no one a path different to that which all must travel. He calls for unity, and unity we must have. God asks us to sink self in Christ. For the natural man this is not easy. But through the power of the incarnation of Christ, God manifest in the flesh, the strength of God is revealed in gentleness and beauty. To “as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] By this power we may overcome our evil tendencies and so modify our imperfect dispositions, that the will of God may be fulfilled in us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 173, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 173, 1903, par. 15
Those who, by divine grace, have gained the mastery over their faults are to teach others how to overcome, pointing them to the Source of strength. To every converted soul is given the privilege of helping those around him who do not rejoice in the light in which he is standing. They also may know the joy that has come to him. “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.] They may take their place in the world as God’s light-bearers.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 87—Psychology and Theology
2MCP 781.1
Found in Holy Scriptures—The true principles of psychology are found in the Holy Scriptures. Man knows not his own value. He acts according to his unconverted temperament of character because he does not look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of his faith. He who comes to Jesus, he who believes on Him and makes Him his Example, realizes the meaning of the words, “To them gave He power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 218, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 218, 1903, par. 15
Bear in mind that by investing your money in the work of God, you are simply returning to your Saviour that which is His own. And you are laying up treasure in heaven beside the throne of God. Christ has given His life for you that you might have the privilege of becoming a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. “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.] Christ became poor in this world’s goods, that you might inherit eternal riches. Put your money out to usury for the Master. Will you not return to the Lord that which is His own? Give yourself without reserve to the Lord Jesus, and as you seek to do His will, your life will be governed by new motives.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 188, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 188, 1903, par. 21
By Christ’s life of sacrifice, the sinner has the privilege of having his sins washed away, and being purified for the heavenly courts above. But what are the conditions? “To as many as received Him, to them gives He power to become sons of God.” [John 1:12.] He bestows to as many as believe on Him. Now it is belief, it is faith; it is taking God at His word; it is believing He will do just what He has said He would. Well, then, who of us wants to be reckoned with the worldlings here below, with all their defects of character, with all their sins, with all their iniquities upon them? Shall we not believe Christ, who has bought us with His own blood, and given His life for us; and ought not we to say, We give ourselves to Thee? It is all that we can do.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 61, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 61, 1903, par. 3
Professing Christians need a decided reconversion. When they obey the Word of God, practicing the teachings of Christ, they will find that His gentleness has made them great. “Learn of Me” is the Saviour’s command. [Verse 29.] Yea, learn how to present truth under the divine influence of the Holy Spirit. There is power for those who receive Christ; for we read, “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.] His promise is that if we accept His invitation, we shall be anointed with the oil of gladness, which is emptied from the two anointed ones into the hearts prepared to receive it. Shall we not receive the anointing of the holy oil?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 185, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 185, 1903, par. 7
He assumes no power. “All power is given Me.” [Verse 18.] He was legally entitled to this power, invested with it from the Father, the Fountain of all truth and power. Jehovah God inaugurated and enthroned Him as the One whom He proclaimed His Son at His baptism and when He broke the fetters of the tomb. Christ proclaimed over the rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He was God’s only begotten Son. He was acknowledged as One equal with the Father. He was the Redeemer of all mankind, of all the human family. Because He humbled Himself, therefore, when He could reach no lower depth in His humiliation, God exalted Him, giving Him power over all flesh that He might give eternal life to as many as would receive Him, even to them that believe on His name. “To them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 259, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 259, 1903, par. 17
The contract, the settlement made by God with Israel, contained no proposition coming from human beings. It was formed by the One who “so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] It is man’s privilege to exercise living faith in the Saviour. John declares, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 114, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 114, 1903, par. 1
“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 226, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 226, 1903, par. 9
Then what is the work that you are to do? You are to receive the precious Saviour as your very best friend, and honor Him by doing His will. “As many as received Him”—choosing Him above all other friends—“to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on His name.” [John 1:12.] Receive Him as your light and life. He so loved you that He died that you might live forever. Believe in Him. Regard him as your best and truest friend. Come to Him, saying, “Lord, I give myself to Thee just as I am. I have wasted many years of the life that Thou didst redeem by the sacrifice of Thine own life. Wilt Thou forgive me?”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 47, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 47, 1903, par. 24
I am much encouraged by your letter. It has been a strange thing to me that there were so few who felt a burden to labor for the Jewish people, who are scattered throughout so many lands. Christ will be with you as you strive to strengthen your perceptive faculties, that you may more clearly behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. The slumbering faculties of the Jewish people are to be aroused. The Old Testament Scriptures, blending with the New, will be to them as the dawning of a new creation, or as the resurrection of the soul. Memory will be awakened as Christ is seen portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament. Souls will be saved from the Jewish nation as the doors of the New Testament are unlocked with the key of the Old Testament. Christ will be recognized as the Saviour of the world, as it is seen how clearly the New Testament explains the Old. Many of the Jewish people will by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them the words will be fulfilled, “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.] They will be changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. They will be made partakers of the divine nature. The image of divinity will be stamped on their souls. If they will continue to learn of Christ, they will attain to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 130, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 130, 1903, par. 37
There are those who say, I might have been a Christian could I have seen in the lives of professing Christians anything better than I saw in the lives of those making no profession. They endeavor to excuse their own defects by pointing to the defects of others. To such ones I would say, Did you try to show these professing Christians that they were doing the Saviour great harm by their unchristlike lives? When you saw them doing that which you knew to be wrong, why did you not say, in the strength of your God-given manhood or womanhood, “I will not bear the name of Christian, and practice deception. I have the Bible, the Word of the living God. I will be an honest Christian. I will not misrepresent the One who gave His life for me. I have the sure word of promise, As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [See John 1:12.]Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 24—Without a Wedding Garment
COL 314.5
“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. This power is not in the human agent. It is the power of God. When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the life of Christ.Our Father Cares
Power Is Given Us to Become the Sons of God, January 3
OFC 14.1
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 63, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 63, 1903, par. 17
Christ was sent as a perfect example to all the world. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 174, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 174, 1903, par. 17
I have every reason to be grateful to my heavenly Father that He has prolonged my life until next November 26 I shall be seventy-six years old. I thank the Lord this day for the blessings I have received. We should dwell much more upon the blessed privileges we enjoy in the gospel. We are children of God. “As many as received Him to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 98, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 98, 1903, par. 4
Christ came to this world to be tempted in all points like as human beings are tempted, that He might be able to succor those that are tempted. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] He came to honor humanity by standing at the head of humanity. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. O how blind and foolish are those who refuse to avail themselves of the great advantages secured to them by the death of the Son of God. His heart is filled with grief as He looks upon those who might be saved, but who will not give up their sins.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 44, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 44, 1904, par. 3
Only through faith in Christ’s name can the sinner be saved. He is the head of the new creation. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the prophet, priest, and king of all regenerate humanity. He is Emmanuel, God with us. The eternal Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and of His fulness have all we received. He is the author and finisher of our faith. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 249, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, par. 6
Religion is not pretense. All shallowness must be avoided. Christian character is built by receiving and believing in Christ. “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.] The true Christian carefully cherishes the truth, realizing that it is more precious than gold. He has an argument that is proof against all the assaults of the enemy.Our High Calling
Accepted in the Beloved, February 16
OHC 53.3
“The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in them that hope in his mercy.” Psalm 147:11. But it is only through the value of the sacrifice made for us that we are of value in the Lord’s sight. It is because of the imputed righteousness of Christ that we are counted precious by God. For Christ’s sake He pardons them that fear Him. He does not see in them the vileness of the sinner; He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whom they believe. In this way only can God take pleasure in any of us. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 207, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, par. 7
Sin is a hateful thing. It marred the moral beauty of a large number of angels. It entered our world and well-nigh obliterated the image of God in man. But in His great love God provided a way whereby man might regain the position from which he fell in yielding to the tempter. Christ came to stand at the head of humanity, to work out in our behalf a perfect character. Those who receive Him are born again. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 217, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, par. 2
I hope that your brothers are serving the Lord. Time is fast passing. The end is near. We need a preparedness to meet the difficulties of this time. There is a great deal of religious sentiment in our world and but very little real Christianity. We need now to be diligent Bible students. Men will say, “Lo, here is Christ,” and “Lo, there is Christ,” to draw people away from the real to the false. [Matthew 24:23.] The Word of God is to be our guide and counselor. Christ is the only safe leader. “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.] “We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory.” [2 Corinthians 3:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 171, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, par. 9
Will you not surrender all to Christ? I want you to come out of the darkness into light. “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.] But it is left for you to choose whether you will receive or reject the Spirit of God. You may accept Christ as your personal Saviour. His atoning sacrifice will bring you eternal life. Received by faith, He will bring you power to become a son of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 30, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 30, 1904, par. 10
Christ came to this earth to reveal what finite minds can comprehend of the glory of God. He came to unite divinity and humanity that through Him, with character made perfect, human beings might at last behold God in the fulness of His glory. Through the merits of the sacrifice He has made, we may “become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] The bright beams of divinity pass through Christ to His followers. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 255, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, par. 28
Those who receive Christ as a personal Saviour will work as He worked, following the example left by His life. He has left us a perfect example; and He has given us the assurance, “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.] Let no human name be chosen before the name of Christ. Let no human sophistries be received in the place of His principles. Accept only the teachings of Him who clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to redeem fallen human beings. With His long human arm He encircled the race, while with His divine arm He laid hold of the throne of God, thus uniting man to the everlasting Father.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 156, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 156, 1904, par. 4
Verses 5, 6. Can we take it in? Is our mind susceptible that it is our privilege to walk in this world as Christ walked? The fragrant influence of heaven is to be upon every professed Christian character. Will you consider that this privilege embraces every son and every daughter of Adam? It is stated in John the first chapter that the world did not know Him, that the world did not receive Him, but to “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. Now, it is our privilege to stand, not as the world was standing, faithless, careless, and unbelieving. It is our privilege to talk faith, and be determined that we will walk as Christ has given us example in His holy life.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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 54, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 54, 1905, par. 13
There is no need for the world to be as it is today—filled with war and bloodshed, violence and crime. Christ has made provision for the salvation of every soul. He gave His life for the life of the world, and John declares, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] This is the gift of heaven to all who truly believe. In view of these things, how can men and women choose to receive the father of lies and cherish his spirit?Our High Calling
“Holier, Yea Holier Still,” July 26
OHC 213.5
God has plainly stated that He expects us to be perfect, and because He expects this, He has made provision for us to be partakers of the divine nature. Only thus can we gain success in striving for eternal life. The power is given by Christ. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 334, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 334, 1905, par. 3
I am quite well, and I can see very much to be done. As I read the daily papers, I can see that the world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. People are becoming utterly reckless of life. Men and women and even little children are increasing in wickedness day by day. If man had always obeyed the law of God, how different the earth would be from what it now 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.] We can plainly see that everything is being stirred. Saith the Lord, I will turn and overturn. We see that nothing is sure and steadfast. The world is in complete agitation. The movements made by the people of God are to be made on a sure and certain basis. At no time are we to be reckless. We are to keep strictly to a firm belief in the Word of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 15, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 15, 1905, par. 27
“All things are yours, ... and ye are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s.” [1 Corinthians 3:21-23.] God gave Christ to be the head over all things to the church. The Saviour loves the church with an everlasting love. “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.] Christ gave Himself for the church “that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.” [Ephesians 5:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 223, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 223, 1905, par. 5
We are to proclaim the truth to the world, for thus the great Medical Missionary has commanded us. What ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the house top; for there is nothing hid that shall not be made known. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and keep His commandments. [See Matthew 10:26, 27; Psalm 25:14.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 257, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 257, 1905, par. 5
Do not allow yourself to be controlled by feeling. It is through the power of living faith that we become heirs to the promises of God. “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.] Men cannot receive this power by feeling. We must receive it by faith in Christ as a sin-pardoning Saviour.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 56, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 13
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 2:1, 2.] “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.] When we thus unite with Christ, we are gaining an experience that will be of more value to us than gold or silver or precious stones.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 110, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 110, 1905, par. 9
“To 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.] This privilege is ours. We may present our petitions to One who hears, One whose ear is ever open to the prayer of faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 192, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 192, 1905, par. 56
Now let every one of us see what we can do in standing up in noble dignity to glorify the God of heaven that has given us power—“to as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] The Lord help every one of us. My very heart knows not how to let go of you. My very heart yearns after you, and I pray that the Lord will open your understanding to keep as far away from the liquor saloons as possible, and put that money into the treasury, and let me tell you, those that are with you here will let you know just where to put it, so that it will have a converting power to spread the gospel all through our world. We want to send it to the foreign missions. I have been sending to these foreign missions all the royalty on my books that are sold in the foreign countries, thousands and thousands of dollars, and send them the means of these royalties in America that are sold in order to translate into different languages the many books that God has given me to witness before the world of what is truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 173, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 173, 1905, par. 10
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ always leads in paths that are right. It is ordained of God that there should be no respect of persons, that one man should not usurp authority over another man’s mind. One man is not to be conscience for another man. Christ is the Saviour for all. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] The Holy Spirit is a gift to all. Your attitude toward others must show that you are sanctified, body, mind, and soul. It must show that the converting power of God is on your heart and disposition.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 161, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 161, 1905, par. 18
The promise is given, “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.] It is the striving souls who receive the assistance of heaven and partake of its elements. It is by test and trial that the followers of Christ are fitted to dwell with Him in the heavenly courts.Selected Messages Book 1
Danger of Light Becoming Darkness
1SM 137.1
All spiritual life is derived from Jesus Christ. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). But what is the sure result of becoming a child of God? The result is that we become laborers together with God. There is a great work to be done for your own soul’s salvation, and to qualify you to win others from unbelief to a life sustained by faith in Christ Jesus: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me [with a casual faith?—No, with an abiding faith that works by love and purifies the soul] hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life.... I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.... Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.... It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father” (John 6:47, 48, 51, 53, 54, 63-65).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 313, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 313, 1905, par. 3
Christ is the Life and the Light of the world. It is Satan’s special effort to quench that Light, which is shining amidst the moral darkness. But to “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.] Children of God! What a privilege to have grace to overcome! What joy will come to all who will believe that Christ is their personal Redeemer, that He has redeemed them through His own suffering and death! And we who are thus favored, should we not consider it a great privilege to confess Christ through a well-ordered life and godly conversation?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 293, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 293, 1905, par. 33
What an exaltation is brought to view for those who will receive Christ. “To them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] It is through the man Christ Jesus that human nature is so exalted. Through His power men become partakers of the divine nature; and as He is honored, they through conformity to His character, and through the power of His grace, become one with Him as He is one with the Father.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 78, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 78, 1905, par. 25
A deep and thorough work of reform is needed in the Seventh-day Adventist church. The world is not to be allowed to corrupt the principles of God’s commandment-keeping people. Believers are to exert an influence that bears witness to the power of heavenly principles. Those who unite with the church must give evidence of a change of principle. Unless this is done, unless the line of demarcation between the church and the world is carefully preserved, assimilation to the world will be the result. Our message to the church and to our institutions is: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] The attributes of Christ’s character are to be cherished, and these are to become a power in the lives of God’s people. “I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 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.” [John 17:15-18.] What a statement is this! Who believes that those who profess to believe present truth are sent into the world as Christ was sent into the world by His Father? What a work Christ did! To expel the powers of darkness, to give health and strength to those who receive Him, this was His work. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 42, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 42, 1905, par. 18
Today the Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the world. Let a decided message go forth against the extravagant use of the money that is needed in the proclamation of the truth for this time. Not by outward display, not by worldly patronage is the kingdom of Christ established, but by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy Spirit. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name; which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, but of God.” [John 1:12.] Here is the only power that can work for the uplifting of humanity. And the human agency for the accomplishment of this work is the teaching and preaching of the Word of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 27, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 27, 1906, par. 33
The workers in the Los Angeles restaurant and the members of the Los Angeles church need to be thoroughly converted. To everyone has been given the talent of intellect. Have you received power to prevail with God? “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 14, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 14, 1906, par. 8
Christ conquered as the sinless, unfallen, perfect man. As the Messiah He has won the victory over the temptations of the enemy, making it possible for us to overcome as He overcame. We are to overcome in every encounter with the enemy. We are to be victors by becoming partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Each victory that He gained in His humanity makes it possible for us, through receiving and believing in Him, to gain the victory. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Each victory that He gained in humanity secures for us its genuine fruits. Each assault of Satan overcome marks the occasion of a victory for humanity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 336, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 336, 1906, par. 15
Those outstretched arms represent Christ’s embracing the world. The last look that the disciples saw on the face of Christ was one of love. The blessing that He bequeathed to His disciples included all who should henceforth believe on Him and accept Him as a personal Saviour. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them which believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 56, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 56, 1906, par. 3
I hope that your faith will increase. We need to move understandingly. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God.” “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the children of God.” [Romans 8:16, 14.] “Led by the Spirit,” accepting the Word, following its guidance. This includes the idea of taking heed to the directions given us in God’s Word. “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.] This believing means everything to the receiver.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 147, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 147, 1906, par. 11
It was through the union of the divine and the human in Christ that power was imparted to men to become partakers of the divine nature. He gives this power to every one that receives Him. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 49, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 49, 1906, par. 15
“Give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” [Verse 10.] There is a work resting upon every one of us. We must co-operate with Christ Jesus. We must lay right hold of every advantage He has given us and show that we receive it; for “to as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believed on His name.” [John 1:12.] “For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:11.] Precious, precious assurance!21LtMs, Ms 49, 1906, par. 31
The Lord has given us the Loma Linda Sanitarium, because He desires to help the sick and to surround them with every advantage possible for recovery of health. He desires to bring hope to the hopeless and courage to the desponding. He desires to lift the afflicted and the suffering out of their weakness and give them a strength that is beyond expression. All He asks in return is that they believe. “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.] It is our privilege to believe in a mighty power that is out of and beyond ourselves. When we, as little children, take Christ at His word, when we grasp His promises by faith, we shall have a power that is greater than human power—a power that will unite us with the strength of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 87, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 87, 1907, par. 12
Is it not a strange thing that there are so few among Seventh-day Adventists who feel a burden to labor for the Jewish people? The slumbering faculties of the Jews are to be aroused. The Old Testament Scriptures, blending with the New in an explanation of God’s purpose, will be to them the dawning of a new creation or as the resurrection of the soul. Faith will be awakened as Christ is seen portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament. As the doors of the Old Testament are unlocked by the key of the New, and it is seen how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, Christ will be recognized as the Saviour of the world. Many of the Jewish people will receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them the words will be fulfilled, “To 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.] They will be changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. Being made partakers of the divine nature, the image of divinity will be stamped on the soul. If they will continue to learn of Christ, they will attain to the measure of the fulness of the stature of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 196, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, par. 5
Christ gave His life to save all who will believe in Him. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in His name.” [John 1:12.] Eternal life is proffered you. Will you accept it? If you will consent to be a partaker of the divine nature, you may co-operate in the works of Christ. Is not the reward of everlasting life of some consequence to you? Will you not now decide this question—just now?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 50, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, par. 8
O how you have for many years spoiled your record, as you have followed your own unsanctified will. You have had the utmost confidence in your own judgment, and this has sometimes led you to work counter to the will of God. Will you bear in mind that you are not your own, that you have been bought with a price? Christ, our Redeemer, the Prince of heaven, condescended to come to this world and to live an exemplary life. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 184, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 184, 1908, par. 13
God will accept you if you will accept the message He sends. Give yourself to Christ. This is your only hope of salvation. If you will do this, the assurance of the disciple John may be yours, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 107, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 107, 1908, par. 17
We are living in the great antitypical day of atonement. We must individually seek God. This is a personal work. Let us draw near to God, allowing nothing to come into our efforts that would misrepresent the truth for this time. Let every one confess, not his brother’s sin, but his own sin. Let him humble his heart before God and become so filled with the Holy Spirit, that his life will show that he has been born again. We read, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 8, 1914
25LtMs, Ms 8, 1914, par. 7
Salvation is secured by a mutual contract. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Will you, with all your heart and mind and soul, enter into this contract?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.Selected Messages Book 3
Chapter 22—Emphasis on Salvation Theme—1890-1908
3SM 203.1
Partakers of the Divine Nature—It is our privilege to be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. God has plainly stated that He requires us to be perfect; and because He requires this, He has made provision that we may be partakers of the divine nature. Only thus can we gain success in our striving for eternal life. The power is given by Christ. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12).Jesus, Name Above All Names
Christ of the Gospel Dispensation, July 18
JNN 212.1
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.—John 1:12JNN 212.4
In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with the New in an explanation of Jehovah’s eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused, and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. Many will by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them will be fulfilled the words, “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).—The Acts of the Apostles, 380, 381.Sons and Daughters of God
That Power Is Given Us to Become the Sons of God, January 6
SD 12.1
But 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.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
In Courage And Simplicity
9T 141.3
Christ is the Light of the world. Those who follow Him do not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. John declares of Christ: “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. Behold Christ. Beholding Him brings heart and mind and character into conformity to the will of God.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
The Need of Earnest, Whole-Souled Labor
9T 152.2
Remember that in working with Christ as your personal Saviour lies your strength and your victory. This is the part all are to act. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. He declares: “Without Me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5. And the repentant, believing soul responds: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13. To those who do this comes the assurance: “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” John 1:12.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
A Time of Preparation
9T 218.3
We are living in the great antitypical day of atonement. We must individually seek God. This is a personal work. Let us draw near to God, allowing nothing to come into our efforts that would misrepresent the truth for this time. Let everyone confess, not his brother’s sin, but his own sin. Let him humble his heart before God and become so filled with the Holy Spirit that his life will show that he has been born again. We read: “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.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Chapter 7—The Work in Greater New York
7T 39.2
Remember that working with Christ as your personal Saviour is your strength and your victory. This is the part that all are to act. To those who do this comes the assurance: “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” John 1:12. Christ declares: “Without Me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5. And the humble, believing soul responds: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13.That I May Know Him
“What Manner of Love”! February 23
TMK 60.2
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12).... “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:14-18).That I May Know Him
Christ Our Divine Ransom, March 5
TMK 70.4
The character of Christ is an infinitely perfect character. The Word declares Him. He is lifted up and proclaimed as the One who gave His life for the life of the world.... Christ gave His own life, that all the disloyal and disobedient might realize the truth of the promise given in the first chapter of John: “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). Tell it over and over again. We may become the sons of God, members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. All who accept Jesus Christ and hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end will be heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ to “an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away.” 6Manuscript 153, 1898.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 35—Salvation to the Jews
AA 381.1
In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with the New in an explanation of Jehovah’s eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused, and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. Many will by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them will be fulfilled the words, “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.The Faith I Live By
The Sons and Daughters of God, May 4
FLB 130.1
But 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.The Upward Look
Victors Through Christ, January 3
UL 17.3
Christ conquered as the sinless, unfallen, perfect Man. As the Messiah He has won the victory over the temptations of the enemy, making it possible for us to overcome as He overcame. We are to overcome in every encounter with the enemy. We are to be victors by becoming partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Each victory that He gained in His humanity makes it possible for us, through receiving and believing in Him, to gain the victory. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). Each victory that He gained in humanity secures for us its genuine fruits. Each assault of Satan overcome marks the occasion of a victory for humanity....God’s Amazing Grace
Your Royal Birth, February 27
AG 66.3
“The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy” (James 5:11).... He looks upon His redeemed heritage with pity. He is ready to pardon their sins if they will surrender and be loyal to Him. In order to be just, and yet the justifier of the sinner, He laid the punishment of sin upon His only begotten Son.... For Christ’s sake He pardons those that fear Him. He does not see in them the vileness of the sinner; He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whom they believe. In this way only can God take pleasure in any of us. “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).The Upward Look
Mix Faith With Hearing, March 2
UL 75.7
Christians are to be light bearers in the world, shining amid the darkness of sin and crime. In the kingdom of this world, the principalities and powers that take Satan as their leader must constantly be met. Following Christ’s example of cross bearing and self-denial makes those who receive Christ children of God. “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). They are victors in the battle of life; for they have put on the new man, “which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10).—Manuscript 30, March 2, 1902, “Christlikeness in Business Dealings.”The Upward Look
God’s Plans Are Simple, June 30
UL 195.1
But 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.The Upward Look
Christ’s Minutemen, July 19
UL 214.4
Religion is not pretense. All shallowness must be avoided. Christian character is built by receiving and believing in Christ. “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). The true Christian carefully cherishes the truth, realizing that it is more precious than gold. He has an argument that is proof against all the assaults of the enemy.The Upward Look
Holier, Holier Still, September 27
UL 284.7
It is our privilege to be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. God has plainly stated that He requires us to be perfect; and because He requires this, He has made provision that we may be partakers of the divine nature. Only thus can we gain success in our striving for eternal life. The power is given by Christ. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12).—Letter 153, September 27, 1902, to Brother and Sister S. N. Haskell.The Upward Look
Nature Imperfectly Reveals God, October 29
UL 316.3
Christ came to this earth to reveal what finite minds can comprehend of the glory of God. He came to unite divinity and humanity, that through Him, with character made perfect, human beings might at last behold God in the fullness of His glory. Through the merits of the sacrifice He has made, we may become “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:4). The bright beams of divinity pass through Christ to His followers. “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)....This Day With God
Heavenly Dividends, January 23
TDG 31.3
As a nation the Jews refused to receive Christ. He had led them in their travels, as their invisible, infinite Leader. He had communicated His will to them, but in the test they rejected Him, their only hope, their only salvation, and God rejected them. “But 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). To all who receive and obey the conditions, God’s gifts flow steadily, without repentance, without recall. God has imparted His gifts to man to be used, not according to hereditary or fanciful ideas, not according to natural impulses or inclination, but according to His will....This Day With God
Covered by Christ’s Righteousness, August 5
TDG 226.5
Those who, by divine grace, have gained the mastery over their faults, are to teach others how to overcome, pointing them to the Source of strength. To every converted soul is given the privilege of helping those around him who do not rejoice in the light in which he is standing. They also may know the joy that has come to him. “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). They may take their place in the world as God’s light bearers.—Letter 173, August 5, 1903, to “My Dear Brethren.”This Day With God
Ye Are God’s Instruments, October 1
TDG 283.1
But 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.Ye Shall Receive Power
The Spirit: A Witness, January 4
YRP 12.2
If the Spirit beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, what is the result? The believing soul comes into perfect submission to the will of God. The Majesty of heaven condescends to a holy, familiar intercourse with him who seeks God with the whole heart, and the child of God, through the abundant manifestation of His grace, is softened into a childlike dependence. You must commit your soul and body unto God with perfect trust in His power and willingness to bless you, helpless and unworthy as you are. “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).God’s Amazing Grace
Sons of God, November 29
AG 341.3
What a stupendous thought, what unheard-of condescension, what amazing love, that finite men may be allied to the Omnipotent! “To them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” (John 1:12). “Beloved, now are we the sons of God.” Can any worldly honor equal this?Ye Shall Receive Power
Human Voice a Channel for Divine Voice, June 20
YRP 180.3
Through the gracious influence of the Holy Spirit he is changed and becomes one with Christ in spirit and purpose. His affection for God increases, he hungers after righteousness and longs to be more like his Master. By beholding Christ, he is changed from glory to glory, from character to character, and becomes more and more like Jesus. He is imbued with love for Christ and filled with a deep, unresting love for perishing souls, and Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. “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).—Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 220, 221.The Work Among the Jews
The Work Among the Jews
PH114 6.1
“In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with the New in an explanation of Jehovah’s eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world... . To them will be fulfilled the word, ‘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)Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Restaurant Work
1SAT 356.4
The workers in the Los Angeles restaurant and the members of the Los Angeles church need to be thoroughly converted. To everyone has been given the talent of intellect. Have you received power to prevail with God? “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).The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 33—To My Dear Brethren
1888 281.2
We have seen evidences in this meeting how far apart has been faith and the righteousness of Christ, from the religious life of those even who claim to be keeping the commandments of God. There has been the great want of a knowledge of Jesus Christ. The want in the religious experience is the acceptance of Jesus Christ as presented in the gospel. Many have not yet received Christ. They have accepted a theory of the truth, and have been in a large degree left to this kind of experience. And how hard it has been to impress the minds with the necessity of justification by faith! “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.The Kress Collection
A Physician’s Opportunities
KC 48.2
Read Matthew 4:11; Hebrews 1:14; John 1:12.The Review and Herald
August 13, 1959
RH August 13, 1959, par. 9
May the Lord help us to seek Him with the whole heart, that we may find Him. He will not be trifled with. Those who, though having opportunity to find the true path, presumptuously depart from it will some day when too late, realize their terrible mistake. Eternal life is for those only who continue to obey God. For them Christ has purchased salvation. “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).From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 35—God’s Special Plan for the Jews
TT 199.2
In the closing proclamation of the gospel, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people. As many of the Jews see the Christ of the gospel in the pages of the Old Testament and perceive how the New Testament explains the Old, they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. To them will be fulfilled the words, “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.True Revival
The Child of God a Laborer With God
TR 78.2
All spiritual life is derived from Jesus Christ. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). But what is the sure result of becoming a child of God? The result is that we become laborers together with God. There is a great work to be done for your own soul’s salvation, and to qualify you to win others from unbelief to a life sustained by faith in Christ Jesus: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me (with a casual faith?—No, with an abiding faith that works by love and purifies the soul) hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. ... I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. ... Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. ... It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father” (John 6:47, 48, 51, 53, 54, 63-65).From the Heart
Becoming a Child of God, February 21
FH 64.1
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name. John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 30, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 30, 1886, par. 4
We must not think that by walking in the path of obedience we shall escape trials; for the enemy will do all in his power to hinder us from gaining heaven. But the Saviour has promised to help us. Have you trials? So had Jesus. Are you tempted? So was He—in all points like as we are. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” [1 Corinthians 10:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 85, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 85, 1889, par. 14
We have seen evidence in this meeting how far apart has been faith and the righteousness of Christ from the religious life of those even who claim to be keeping the commandments of God. There has been the great want of a knowledge of Jesus Christ. The want in the religious experience is the acceptance of Jesus Christ as presented in the gospel. Many have not yet received Christ. They have accepted a theory of the truth, and have been in a large degree left to this kind of experience. And how hard it has been to impress the minds with the necessity of justification by faith! “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 105, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 105, 1893, par. 1
The Lord has given you capabilities which are not being used to His name’s glory. He cannot give prosperity to any member of the human family who is not willing to accept Him by faith. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] “Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] What kind of a husbandry, what kind of a building, are you?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 41, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 25
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place; until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.” [2 Peter 1:19.] The Word of God is your assurance. “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.] The soul’s supply for nutrition is in Jesus Christ. A legal religion will be always a very troublesome guest. A natural religious life is a deception. A Christlike religious life is full of self-distrust, but grasps the hand of Christ firmly and still more firmly as temptations press their hellish shadow upon the soul.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Work for the Jews
GW 398.2
In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with the New in an explanation of Jehovah’s eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused, and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. Many will by faith receive Him as their Redeemer. To them will be fulfilled the words, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 56, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 56, 1894, par. 13
Dinner is now over, and I will continue my writing. We have had a thunder storm, with hail as large as peas. The rain has ceased, and preparations are going on for the Sabbath. O, how we need the Holy Spirit’s power upon this ground to break and subdue the hearts! O, that these great Bible truths may be brought into immediate contact with life and character, that justification by faith through the atonement of the Son of God, the forgiveness of sins, may make hearts full of praise and thanksgiving to God. “To 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.] We want to see the implanting of a new nature through the power of the grace of God.In Heavenly Places
A Mutual Contract, January 13
HP 19.1
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 95, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 95, 1895, par. 2
Hang your helpless soul upon Jesus. “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.] Bear in mind that the power is of God. Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. The Lord has a work for you to do when you will grow up into Him, your living Head. Now, do not voluntarily place yourself in the company of unbelievers who are not under the control of the Spirit of God. Place yourself where there is light, where you will receive strength. Jesus loves you, and He will be your sufficiency and will strengthen your weak faith. “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 44, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 44, 1896, par. 2
“Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and will give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles, to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” [Isaiah 42:5-7.] This precious assurance of God to His Son, His anointed, embraces all who receive Jesus Christ, for John says, “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.] To every one the Lord presents terms of mercy. As we draw nigh to Him by faith, He draws nigh to us, adopting us into His family, and making us His sons and daughters.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98b, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98b, 1896, par. 4
“Thus saith God the Lord, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles, to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” [Isaiah 42:5-7.] This precious assurance of God to His Son, His anointed, embraces all who receive Jesus Christ, for John says, “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.] To every one the Lord presents terms of mercy. As we draw nigh to Him by faith, He draws nigh to us, adopting us into His family, and making us His sons and daughters.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 49a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 49a, 1896, par. 14
I speak to those in responsible positions in our publishing houses. You must be led by the Spirit of Christ, else Satan will intrude himself and counterwork the work of God. All do not see that if they are connected with Christ, they will be closely bound together in unity and confidence. Through Christ’s grace those connected with our offices of publication are to show that they are true disciples. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] It is your privilege to have a power that you do not now possess. All who through grace come to Christ will share His trials, and be partakers of His suffering and rejection. But they will also be partakers of His glory.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 91, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 91, 1896, par. 16
The redeemed sinner, clothed in the white robes of Christ’s righteousness, may stand in the presence of a sin-hating God, made perfect by the virtue and merits of his Saviour. “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.] Keep your eye fixed upon Jesus. Think of Him as your friend. Through His rich grace He can save to the uttermost all who come to Him. He tells us in His Word that He is the “living bread which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever.” [John 6:51.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 33, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 33, 1896, par. 3
When you shall come to Jesus just as you are, and acknowledge Him as your Saviour, you will be acknowledged by Jesus as His son. “But 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.] Your only safety is in making a decided movement in the right direction.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 78, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 78, 1896, par. 15
God longs to work through those to whom He has given capabilities for great things. He longs to see those who occupy responsible places representing Him to the world. He desires that Christ be acknowledged as the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, and that He shall through their minds as the light of the world. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on his name.” [John 1:12.] But in order that this may be, God demands that every intellectual and physical capability be offered as a consecrated oblation to Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 34, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 34, 1896, par. 7
Power will be given to every man and woman who will eat of the bread that came down from heaven. O, cannot we take this in? Cannot we comprehend it? Why is our imagination so dull? “This is the will of him that sent me,” said Christ, “that every one (how comprehensive, how far-reaching) that seeth the Son, and believeth on him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:40.] If this, the life of Christ, be in us, what may we not accomplish in His name? “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 4, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 4, 1896, par. 13
Christ came to announce to our world that He had brought to men the donation of eternal life. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on his name.” [John 1:12.] But so constantly had satanic hatred against the law of God been cherished in the heart, and so widely had it spread throughout the entire race, that at the time of Christ’s advent, every human agent who showed friendship to God and advocated the law was accounted as a traitor to the common cause. A wakeful impiety was exercised by the enemies of God, and those who departed from evil made themselves a prey and were treated as enemies <to the welfare of man.> The principles of injustice and fraud were wide spread, and a masterly power was constantly at work, seeking to bring into confederacy the forces of evil. This contemptible confederacy of boasted of its power in the very face of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 70, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, par. 14
The streams of salvation are poured into our hearts through the grace of Jesus Christ. All our possessions are gained for us by Him who purchased us with His own blood. God has placed signal honor on the human race, for we read, “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.]In Heavenly Places
A Divine-Human Partnership, May 30
HP 157.5
So it is in spiritual things.... There is to be a copartnership, a divine relation between the Son of God and the repentant sinner. We are made sons and daughters of God. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God” (John 1:12). Christ provides the mercy and grace so abundantly given to all who believe in Him. He fulfills the terms upon which salvation rests. But we must act our part by accepting the blessing in faith. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. Thus he becomes a copartner with Christ.41The Signs of the Times, February 27, 1901 (The Review and Herald, May 28, 1908).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 38, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, par. 6
“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.] What courage, what increase of faith, what trust we should have in God as we recall this petition of the Son of God. We can estimate the value He places upon those who receive and believe on Him by this prayer made to His Father in our behalf. Through His prayer on earth and intercessions in heaven, He brings all His true followers into close living union and relationship to Himself. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,” “heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ.” [John 1:12; Romans 8:17.] Thus the sacred union is formed between Christ and those who receive Him by faith as their personal Saviour. They are one with Christ, as Christ is one with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 39, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, par. 22
“The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in them that hope in his mercy.” [Psalm 147:11.] But it is only through the value of the sacrifice made for us that we are of value in the Lord’s sight. It is because of the imputed righteousness of Christ, that we are accounted precious by God. For Christ’s sake He pardons them that fear Him. He does not see in them the vileness of the sinner; He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whom they believe. In this way only can God take pleasure in any of us. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 4, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 4, 1897, par. 2
This accusing spirit will continue till the close of time, but let none suppose that the Holy Spirit prompts them to work out Satan’s attributes. They are working under another leader. We have seen this acted over and over again in our experience. Adam was tempted in Eden. He yielded to a small temptation. Christ resisted a most powerful series of temptations. Adam fell from his integrity, and the floodgates of woe were opened to our world. Christ passed over the ground in human nature, and although tempted in all points as man is tempted, He stood and saved all who would receive Him. “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.] Our Redeemer stood the test in man’s behalf. He passed over the ground where Adam fell, and redeemed Adam’s disgraceful failure and fall.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 117, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 117, 1897, par. 29
The highest ideal of perfection is held up by God. The soul must be perfect, that it may become a habitation for the Lord God of hosts. All that he has man has received from God. He cannot give God anything that will enrich Him; for all is God’s. But God is willing to give power to those that surrender themselves to Him. John writes, “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.] The child of sinful practices may be purified and cleansed from every defilement if he sees that sin is sin. This you have not yet seen in such a light that you would die rather than sin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 153, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 153, 1897, par. 9
If the Spirit beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God, what is the result? The believing soul comes into perfect submission to the will of God. The Majesty of heaven condescends to a holy, familiar intercourse with him who seeks God with the whole heart, and the child of God, through the abundant manifestation of His grace, is softened into a childlike dependence. You must commit your soul and body unto God with perfect trust in His power and willingness to bless you, helpless and unworthy as you are. “For as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believed on his name.” [John 1:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 102a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 102a, 1897, par. 9
The lessons given to His disciples Christ intended for all the world. “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.] Christ taught all who would be His followers that instead of listening to the suggestions of the flesh and the world, instead of sparing themselves, they must begin with self-denial and self-sacrifice as He had given them an example. He taught them that they must not shun the cross, but lift it, and bear it after Jesus, walking in His footsteps. He assured them that to save one’s temporal life by shunning the cross of reproach would mean eternal loss—loss of the soul, of heaven, of the life that measures with the life of God. They lose everything and gain nothing. The Son of man, when He comes in the glory of His Father, will reward every man. He will gather every obedient child into His kingdom, to possess the eternal inheritance.