EGW WritingsJohn 3

Ellen G. White · Page 6 of 6

John 3:19

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 11, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, par. 14

The Lord calls upon His people to unify. This is especially necessary in Healdsburg, because in that place there has been little understanding of this matter. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” [John 3:19.] The first chapter of second Peter contains so much precious instruction that those who do not place themselves where they can understand the difference between the principles of God’s kingdom and the principles of the world, would be condemned if there were no other instruction in God’s Word. The apostle says, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Verses 5-8.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Heavenly Gift, March 4

JNN 72.1

“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”—John 3:19

The Great Controversy

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC 265.1

In the sixteenth century the Reformation, presenting an open Bible to the people, had sought admission to all the countries of Europe. Some nations welcomed it with gladness, as a messenger of Heaven. In other lands the papacy succeeded to a great extent in preventing its entrance; and the light of Bible knowledge, with its elevating influences, was almost wholly excluded. In one country, though the light found entrance, it was not comprehended by the darkness. For centuries, truth and error struggled for the mastery. At last the evil triumphed, and the truth of Heaven was thrust out. “This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.” John 3:19. The nation was left to reap the results of the course which she had chosen. The restraint of God’s Spirit was removed from a people that had despised the gift of His grace. Evil was permitted to come to maturity. And all the world saw the fruit of willful rejection of the light.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC88 265.1

In the sixteenth century the Reformation, presenting an open Bible to the people, had sought admission to all the countries of Europe. Some nations welcomed it with gladness, as a messenger of Heaven. In other lands, popery succeeded, to a great extent, in preventing its entrance; and the light of Bible knowledge, with its elevating influences, was almost wholly excluded. In one country, though the light found entrance, it was not comprehended by the darkness. For centuries, truth and error struggled for the mastery. At last the evil triumphed, and the truth of Heaven was thrust out. “This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.” [John 3:19.] The nation was left to reap the results of the course which she had chosen. The restraint of God’s Spirit was removed from a people that had despised the gift of his grace. Evil was permitted to come to maturity. And all the world saw the fruit of willful rejection of the light.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Who Will Accept the Light from Heaven?

1SAT 135.1

Now, brethren, that is not as it ought to be. I want you to meditate over these matters. I want you to seek God in regard to it. I want you to tell the Lord to stir up these souls, that they may begin to feel that they need something more than they [have] got. Brethren, we want light, precious light from the throne of God; and in the place of quibbling, and in the place of fastening upon hooks that you can hang your doubts upon, for Christ’s sake go to your knees in prayer; for Christ’s sake see the error and mistake of the Jews; because Christ has said, “Light has come, and ye choose darkness rather than light.” [See John 3:19] Now, this can be done right where light is shining. You meet men who say, Beware, beware; we must go careful; we must be very careful to press out the darkness, and let the light come in.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Who Will Accept the Light from Heaven?

1888 555.1

Now, brethren, that is not as it ought to be. I want you to meditate over these matters. I want you to seek God in regard to it. I want you to tell the Lord to stir up these souls, that they may begin to feel that they need something more than they [have] got. Brethren, we want light, precious light from the throne of God; and in the place of quibbling, and in the place of fastening upon hooks that you can hang your doubts upon, for Christ’s sake go to your knees in prayer; for Christ’s sake see the error and mistake of the Jews; because Christ has said, “Light has come, and ye choose darkness rather than light.” [See John 3:19.] Now, this can be done right where light is shining. You meet men who say, Beware, beware; we must go careful; we must be very careful to press out the darkness, and let the light come in.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 13

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

3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 18

The history of the Reformation teaches us that the light of truth is not accepted and cherished by the majority. Those who have advanced in reform, obeying the voice of God, Go forward, have met with opposition. Men have sacrificed their lives for the truth. What if they had taken the position you take? I am a Methodist. I am satisfied with my faith. I shall always be a Methodist. I will go with the crowd. What advancement would the Reformation have made? We are accountable for the light that shines in our day. We must walk in that light or the words of Christ are applicable to us: “This is your condemnation, that light has come into the world and men chose darkness rather than light.” [John 3:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35b, 1877

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

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

3LtMs, Lt 35b, 1877, par. 10

The history of the Reformation teaches us that the light of truth is not accepted and cherished by the majority. Those who have advanced in reform, obeying the voice of God, Go forward, have met with opposition. Men have sacrificed their lives for the truth. What if they had taken the position you take: I am a Methodist. I am satisfied with my faith. I shall always be a Methodist. I will go with the crowd. What advancement would the Reformation have made? We are accountable for the light that shines in our day. We must walk in that light or the words of Christ are applicable to us: “This is your condemnation, that light has come into the world and men chose darkness rather than light.” [John 3:19.]

John 3:19-20

Ye Shall Receive Power

There Is Always an Open Door, December 9

YRP 352.5

Christ said of them that they “loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved” (John 3:19, 20). He said, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40). The way was open; but by their own course of action they closed the door, and severed their connection with Christ. We may do the same by rejecting light and truth.—The Review and Herald, March 26, 1889.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 57, 1876

3LtMs, Lt 57, 1876, par. 4

I told her sin was not man’s misfortune but his guilt. Man was not a sinner because of circumstances, or his education or his temperament, but from deliberate choice. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:19, 20. We must meet God in the judgment. What excuse can you there offer why you have not given Him your heart, your best and holiest affections? You put a plaster on your conscience by greedily presenting before those who converse with you, professors who have fallen into sin and disgraced themselves and the church.

John 3:20

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

MR No. 961—Looking Back at Minneapolis

12MR 202.1

One thing many did know, and that is that they were guilty of the very things for which they were reproved, but rather than humble their proud hearts and confess their sins, they threw themselves fully on Satan’s ground to work wickedness. They are of that class of whom Christ said, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40). “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved” (John 3:20).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 1, 1883

4LtMs, Ms 1, 1883, par. 9

Jesus said, “Every one that doeth evil, hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:20.] There are many today pursuing a similar course. In the testimonies are specified the very sins of which they are guilty; hence they have no desire to read them. There are those who from their youth up have received warning and reproofs through the testimonies; but have they walked in the light and reformed? Not at all. They still indulge the same sins; they have the same defects of character. These evils mar the work of God and make their impress upon the churches. The work the Lord would do to set the churches in order is not done, because the individual members, and especially the leaders of the flock, would not be corrected.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 24, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 24, 1888, par. 67

One thing many did know, [was] that they were guilty of the very things for which they were reproved, [but] rather than humble their proud hearts and confess their sins, they threw themselves fully on Satan’s ground to work wickedness. They are of that class of whom Christ said, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:40. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 55, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 55, 1888, par. 37

When we see open, frank work like a Christian working in harmony with God’s appointed agencies, then we will have more confidence in these words of Dr. Maxson; but we say to him now in the words of Christ to the Pharisees, “Ye will not come to the light lest your deeds shall be reproved.” [John 3:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 143, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 14

You may have ears, and not hear. You may have eyes, and not see the light, nor receive the illumination that God has provided for you. You may close the door to light as effectually as the Pharisees closed the door to Christ when He taught among them. They would not receive the light and knowledge He brought, because it did not come in the way they had expected it to come. Christ was the light of the world, and if they had received the light He graciously brought to them, it would have resulted in their salvation, but they rejected the Holy One of Israel. Christ said of them that they loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:20.] He said, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The way was open; but by their own course of action they closed the door and severed their connection with Christ. We may do the same by rejecting light and truth.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 5—Cain and Abel Tested

PP 74.2

Cain hated and killed his brother, not for any wrong that Abel had done, but “because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” 1 John 3:12. So in all ages the wicked have hated those who were better than themselves. Abel’s life of obedience and unswerving faith was to Cain a perpetual reproof. “Everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20. The brighter the heavenly light that is reflected from the character of God’s faithful servants, the more clearly the sins of the ungodly are revealed, and the more determined will be their efforts to destroy those who disturb their peace.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 26—A Work of Reform

GC 458.2

Now as in former ages, the presentation of a truth that reproves the sins and errors of the times will excite opposition. “Everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20. As men see that they cannot maintain their position by the Scriptures, many determine to maintain it at all hazards, and with a malicious spirit they assail the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. It is the same policy which has been pursued in all ages. Elijah was declared to be a troubler in Israel, Jeremiah a traitor, Paul a polluter of the temple. From that day to this, those who would be loyal to truth have been denounced as seditious, heretical, or schismatic. Multitudes who are too unbelieving to accept the sure word of prophecy will receive with unquestioning credulity an accusation against those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more. And the Bible plainly teaches that a time is approaching when the laws of the state will so conflict with the law of God that whosoever would obey all the divine precepts must brave reproach and punishment as an evildoer.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 26—A Work of Reform

GC88 458.2

Now, as in former ages, the presentation of a truth that reproves the sins and errors of the times, will excite opposition. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:20.] As men see that they cannot maintain their position by the Scriptures, many determine to maintain it at all hazards, and with a malicious spirit they assail the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. It is the same policy which has been pursued in all ages. Elijah was declared to be a troubler of Israel, Jeremiah a traitor, Paul a polluter of the temple. From that day to this, those who would be loyal to truth have been denounced as seditious, heretical, or schismatic. Multitudes who are too unbelieving to accept the sure word of prophecy, will receive with unquestioning credulity an accusation against those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more. And the Bible plainly teaches that a time is approaching when the laws of the State shall so conflict with the law of God that whoever would obey all the divine precepts must brave reproach and punishment as an evil-doer.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 21—The Third Message Rejected

4SP 292.2

Now, as in former ages, the presentation of a truth that reproves the errors and sins of the times, will call forth a storm of opposition. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:20.] Those who cannot sustain their position by the Scriptures are stubbornly determined that it shall be sustained at all hazards, and with a malicious spirit they attack the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. Though very unbelieving in regard to the sure word of prophecy, they manifest the utmost credulity in accepting anything detrimental to the Christian integrity of those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more as we near the close of time.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 24—Looking Back at Minneapolis

1888 226.1

Australasian Signs of the Times

April 8, 1912

BEcho April 8, 1912, par. 8

Cain hated and killed his brother, not for any wrong that Abel had done, but “because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” 1 John 3:12. So in all ages the wicked have hated those who were better than themselves. Abel’s life of obedience and unswerving faith was to Cain a perpetual reproof. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. The brighter the heavenly light that is reflected from the character of God’s faithful servants, the more clearly the sins of the ungodly are revealed, and the more determined will be their efforts to destroy those who disturb their peace.

From Eternity Past

The Great Difference Between Cain and Abel

EP 40.1

So in all ages the wicked have hated those who were better than themselves. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20.

Homeward Bound

Christ Could Have Come Before This, December 1

HB 366.4

John 3:21

Ye Shall Receive Power

Windows Wide Open, October 11

YRP 293.4

The Lord purifies the heart very much as we air a room. We do not close the doors and windows and throw in some purifying substance; but we open the doors and throw wide the windows, and let heaven’s purifying atmosphere flow in. The Lord says, “He that doeth truth cometh to the light” (John 3:21). The windows of impulse, of feeling, must be opened up toward heaven, and the dust of selfishness and earthliness must be expelled. The grace of God must sweep through the chambers of the mind, the imagination must have heavenly themes for contemplation, and every element of the nature must be purified and vitalized by the Spirit of God.—Manuscript Releases 2:338.

From the Heart

Let Your Light Shine, February 18

FH 61.1

But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God. John 3:21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 8c, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 8c, 1891, par. 17

The Lord purifies the heart very much as we air a room. We do not close the doors and windows and throw in some purifying substance; but we open the doors and throw wide the windows and let heaven’s purifying atmosphere flow in. The Lord says, “He that doeth truth cometh to the light.” [John 3:21.] The windows of impulse, of feeling, must be opened up toward heaven, and the dust of selfishness and earthliness must be expelled. The grace of God must sweep through the chambers of the mind, the imagination must have heavenly themes for contemplation, and every element of the nature must be purified and vitalized by the Spirit of God.

John 3:22-36

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 18—“He Must Increase”

DA 178.1

For a time the Baptist’s influence over the nation had been greater than that of its rulers, priests, or princes. If he had announced himself as the Messiah, and raised a revolt against Rome, priests and people would have flocked to his standard. Every consideration that appeals to the ambition of the world’s conquerors Satan had stood ready to urge upon John the Baptist. But with the evidence before him of his power, he had steadfastly refused the splendid bribe. The attention which was fixed upon him he had directed to Another.

DA 178.2

Now he saw the tide of popularity turning away from himself to the Saviour. Day by day the crowds about him lessened. When Jesus came from Jerusalem to the region about Jordan, the people flocked to hear Him. The number of His disciples increased daily. Many came for baptism, and while Christ Himself did not baptize, He sanctioned the administration of the ordinance by His disciples. Thus He set His seal upon the mission of His forerunner. But the disciples of John looked with jealousy upon the growing popularity of Jesus. They stood ready to criticize His work, and it was not long before they found occasion. A question arose between them and the Jews as to whether baptism availed to cleanse the soul from sin; they maintained that the baptism of Jesus differed essentially from that of John. Soon they were in dispute with Christ’s disciples in regard to the form of words proper to use at baptism, and finally as to the right of the latter to baptize at all.

DA 179.1

The disciples of John came to him with their grievances, saying, “Rabbi, He that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou bearest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to Him.” Through these words, Satan brought temptation upon John. Though John’s mission seemed about to close, it was still possible for him to hinder the work of Christ. If he had sympathized with himself, and expressed grief or disappointment at being superseded, he would have sown the seeds of dissension, would have encouraged envy and jealousy, and would seriously have impeded the progress of the gospel.

DA 179.2

John had by nature the faults and weaknesses common to humanity, but the touch of divine love had transformed him. He dwelt in an atmosphere uncontaminated with selfishness and ambition, and far above the miasma of jealousy. He manifested no sympathy with the dissatisfaction of his disciples, but showed how clearly he understood his relation to the Messiah, and how gladly he welcomed the One for whom he had prepared the way.

DA 179.3

He said, “A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before Him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice.” John represented himself as the friend who acted as a messenger between the betrothed parties, preparing the way for the marriage. When the bridegroom had received his bride, the mission of the friend was fulfilled. He rejoiced in the happiness of those whose union he had promoted. So John had been called to direct the people to Jesus, and it was his joy to witness the success of the Saviour’s work. He said, “This my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.”

DA 179.4

Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God. He himself had been only a voice, a cry in the wilderness. Now with joy he accepted silence and obscurity, that the eyes of all might be turned to the Light of life.

DA 179.5

Those who are true to their calling as messengers for God will not seek honor for themselves. Love for self will be swallowed up in love for Christ. No rivalry will mar the precious cause of the gospel. They will recognize that it is their work to proclaim, as did John the Baptist, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. They will lift up Jesus, and with Him humanity will be lifted up. “Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Isaiah 57:15.

DA 180.1

The soul of the prophet, emptied of self, was filled with the light of the divine. As he witnessed to the Saviour’s glory, his words were almost a counterpart of those that Christ Himself had spoken in His interview with Nicodemus. John said, “He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: He that cometh from heaven is above all.... For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” Christ could say, “I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.” John 5:30. To Him it is declared, “Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.” Hebrews 1:9. The Father “giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.”

DA 181.1

So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We cannot discern the character of God, or accept Christ by faith, unless we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this the Holy Spirit is given without measure. In Christ “dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and in Him ye are made full.” Colossians 2:9, 10, R. V.

DA 181.2

The disciples of John had declared that all men were coming to Christ; but with clearer insight, John said, “No man receiveth His witness;” so few were ready to accept Him as the Saviour from sin. But “he that hath received His witness hath set his seal to this, that God is true.” John 3:33, R. V. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” No need of disputation as to whether Christ’s baptism or John’s purified from sin. It is the grace of Christ that gives life to the soul. Apart from Christ, baptism, like any other service, is a worthless form. “He that believeth not the Son shall not see life.”

DA 181.3

The success of Christ’s work, which the Baptist had received with such joy, was reported also to the authorities at Jerusalem. The priests and rabbis had been jealous of John’s influence as they saw the people leaving the synagogues and flocking to the wilderness; but here was One who had still greater power to attract the multitudes. Those leaders in Israel were not willing to say with John, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” They arose with a new determination to put an end to the work that was drawing the people away from them.

DA 181.4

Jesus knew that they would spare no effort to create a division between His own disciples and those of John. He knew that the storm was gathering which would sweep away one of the greatest prophets ever given to the world. Wishing to avoid all occasion for misunderstanding or dissension, He quietly ceased His labors, and withdrew to Galilee. We also, while loyal to truth, should try to avoid all that may lead to discord and misapprehension. For whenever these arise, they result in the loss of souls. Whenever circumstances occur that threaten to cause division, we should follow the example of Jesus and of John the Baptist.

DA 181.5

John had been called to lead out as a reformer. Because of this, his disciples were in danger of fixing their attention upon him, feeling that the success of the work depended upon his labors, and losing sight of the fact that he was only an instrument through which God had wrought. But the work of John was not sufficient to lay the foundation of the Christian church. When he had fulfilled his mission, another work was to be done, which his testimony could not accomplish. His disciples did not understand this. When they saw Christ coming in to take the work, they were jealous and dissatisfied.

DA 182.1

The same dangers still exist. God calls a man to do a certain work; and when he has carried it as far as he is qualified to take it, the Lord brings in others, to carry it still farther. But, like John’s disciples, many feel that the success of the work depends on the first laborer. Attention is fixed upon the human instead of the divine, jealousy comes in, and the work of God is marred. The one thus unduly honored is tempted to cherish self-confidence. He does not realize his dependence on God. The people are taught to rely on man for guidance, and thus they fall into error, and are led away from God.

DA 182.2

The work of God is not to bear the image and superscription of man. From time to time the Lord will bring in different agencies, through whom His purpose can best be accomplished. Happy are they who are willing for self to be humbled, saying with John the Baptist, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 18—“He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease”

HLv 113.1

If John the Baptist had announced himself as the Messiah and raised a revolt against Rome, priests and people would have flocked to his standard. Every consideration that appeals to the ambition of the world’s conquerors Satan stood ready to urge upon him. But he had steadfastly refused the splendid bribe. The attention fixed upon him he directed to Another.

HLv 113.2

Now he saw the tide of popularity turning away from himself to the Saviour. Day by day the crowds about him lessened as the people flocked to hear Jesus. The number of Christ’s disciples increased daily.

HLv 113.3

But the disciples of John looked with jealousy upon the growing popularity of Jesus. They stood ready to criticize His work, and it was not long before they found occasion. A question arose between John’s disciples and the Jews as to whether baptism cleansed the soul from sin; they maintained that the baptism of Jesus differed essentially from that of John. Soon they were in dispute with Christ’s disciples in regard to the form of words proper to use at baptism, and finally as to their right to baptize at all. The disciples of John came to him with their grievances, saying, “Rabbi, He that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou bearest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to Him.”

HLv 113.4

Through these words, Satan brought temptation upon John. If John had expressed disappointment at being superseded, he would have sown seeds of dissension, encouraged envy and jealousy, and seriously impeded the progress of the gospel.

HLv 114.1

John had by nature the faults and weaknesses common to humanity, but the touch of divine love had transformed him. He dwelt in an atmosphere uncontaminated with selfishness and ambition. He manifested no sympathy with the dissatisfaction of his disciples, but showed how gladly he welcomed the One for whom he had prepared the way.

HLv 114.2

He said, “No one can receive anything except what is given him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before Him. He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice.” RSV. John represented himself as the friend who acted as a messenger between the betrothed parties, preparing the way for the marriage. When the bridegroom had received his bride, the mission of the friend was fulfilled. He rejoiced in the happiness of those whose union he had promoted. So it was John’s joy to witness the success of the Saviour’s work. He said, “This my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.”

HLv 114.3

Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He had been only a voice, a cry in the wilderness. Now with joy he accepted silence and obscurity, that the eyes of all might be turned to the Light of life.

HLv 114.4

The soul of the prophet, emptied of self, was filled with the light of the divine. John said, “He that cometh from above is above all... . For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” Christ could say, “I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.” John 5:30.

HLv 114.5

So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self and consent to bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this the Holy Spirit is given without measure.

HLv 115.1

The success of Christ’s work, which the Baptist had received with joy, was reported also to the authorities at Jerusalem. The priests and rabbis had been jealous of John’s influence as they saw the people leaving the synagogues and flocking to the wilderness. But here was One who had still greater power to attract the multitudes. Those leaders in Israel were not willing to say with John, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

HLv 115.2

Jesus knew that the storm was gathering which would sweep away one of the greatest prophets ever given to the world. Wishing to avoid all occasion for dissension, He quietly withdrew to Galilee. We also, while loyal to truth, should try to avoid all that may lead to misapprehension. Whenever circumstances threaten to cause division, we should follow the example of Jesus and of John the Baptist.

HLv 115.3

John had been called to lead out as a reformer. But his work was not sufficient to lay the foundation of the Christian church. Another work was to be done, which his testimony could not accomplish. His disciples did not understand this. When they saw Christ coming in to take the work, they were jealous.

HLv 115.4

The same dangers still exist. God calls a man to do a certain work; and when he has carried it as far as he is qualified, the Lord brings in others to carry it farther. But many feel that the success of the work depends on the first laborer. Jealousy comes in, and the work of God is marred. The one unduly honored is tempted to cherish self-confidence. The people rely on man for guidance and are led away from God.

HLv 115.5

Happy are they who are willing for self to be humbled, saying with John the Baptist, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

John 3:23-36

Conflict and Courage

I Must Decrease, September 26

CC 275.1

That is why my happiness is now complete. He must grow greater and greater and I less and less. John 3:29, 30, Phillips.

CC 275.2

In every stage of this earth’s history God has had His agencies to carry forward His work.... John the Baptist had a special work, for which he was born and to which he was appointed—the work of preparing the way of the Lord.39The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 5:1115.

CC 275.3

When, after Christ’s ministry began, the disciples of John came to him with the complaint that all men were following the new Teacher, John showed how clearly he understood his relation to the Messiah, and how gladly he welcomed the One for whom he had prepared the way.40Testimonies for the Church 8:333.

CC 275.4

John had been called to lead out as a reformer. Because of this, his disciples were in danger of fixing their attention upon him ... and losing sight of the fact that he was only an instrument through which God had wrought. But the work of John was not sufficient to lay the foundation of the Christian church. When he had fulfilled his mission, another work was to be done, which his testimony could not accomplish. His disciples did not understand this. When they saw Christ coming in to take the work, they were jealous and dissatisfied.

CC 275.5

CC 275.6

John 3:26

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Responding to New Light

1SAT 123.1

When John’s disciples became jealous of Christ, they say, “This man, Christ, is baptizing, and all men go unto him.” And they bring it in to stir up jealousy. John tells them, “There cometh one after me who is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose” (See John 3:26; 1:27). Here was the very work to be done. Well, now, do you think that John had no human feelings? Of course he had! But those human feelings should not have a power over him on that occasion. No; when he sees Christ in the crowd, why he says, “Behold the lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). He directed the people right to Christ, and two of the disciples immediately followed Him.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Responding to New Light

1888 539.1

John 3:27-30

Maranatha

“Behold the Lamb of God,” April 19

Mar 117.3

“A man can receive nothing,” he said, “except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.... This my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:27-30.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 113, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 113, 1907, par. 24

“A man can receive nothing,” he said, “except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before Him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:27-30.]

John 3:27-34

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

The Experience of John the Baptist

GW 56.1

“A man can receive nothing,” he said, “except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before Him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him; rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:27-30.]

GW 56.4

The soul of the prophet, emptied of self, was filled with the light of the Divine. In words that were almost a counterpart of the words of Christ Himself, he bore witness to the Saviour’s glory. “He that cometh from above,” he said, “is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: He that cometh from heaven is above all.” “For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God.” [John 3:31, 34.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Experience of John the Baptist

8T 333.3

8T 334.1

The soul of the prophet, emptied of self, was filled with the light of the Divine. In words that were almost a counterpart of the words of Christ Himself, he bore witness to the Saviour’s glory. “He that cometh from above,” he said, “is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: He that cometh from heaven is above all.... For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” John 3:31-34.

John 3:29

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 28—Levi-Matthew

DA 276.5

Very tenderly Jesus answered them. He did not try to correct their erroneous conception of fasting, but only to set them right in regard to His own mission. And He did this by employing the same figure that the Baptist himself had used in his testimony to Jesus. John had said, “He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.” John 3:29. The disciples of John could not fail to recall these words of their teacher, as, taking up the illustration, Jesus said, “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?”

From Heaven With Love

Attempt to Alienate Disciples

HLv 180.3

Tenderly Jesus answered. He did not try to correct their erroneous concept of fasting, but only to set them right in regard to His own mission. John the Baptist himself had said, “He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice; therefore this joy of mine is now full.” John 3:29, RSV. The disciples of John could not fail to recall these words of their teacher. Taking up the illustration, Jesus said, “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?”

Radiant Religion

John’s Joy Fulfilled in Preparing the Saviour’s Way, October 20

RRe 295.1

He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. John 3:29.

John 3:30

Education

The Testing of Job

Ed 157.2

John the Baptist, at his appearance as the Messiah’s herald, stirred the nation. From place to place his steps were followed by vast throngs of people of every rank and station. But when the One came to whom he had borne witness, all was changed. The crowds followed Jesus, and John’s work seemed fast closing. Yet there was no wavering of his faith. “He must increase,” he said, “but I must decrease.” John 3:30.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 14, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 14, 1891, par. 17

Reformers are to work only in Jesus. Self is not to appear. “He must increase; I must decrease.” [John 3:30.] We are to maintain a Christlike simplicity, manifesting pure, clear, straightforward, honest works. We will see men and women who manifest bitterness of spirit, who are talkative, and who reveal Satanic elements of character, for they are contentious, never at peace, never at rest, but ever stirring up that which is disagreeable. Let these professing but not practicing Christians see that the oldest workers of our cause are not destroyers but reformers, let them see that our work is not to ruin, but to save, to strengthen, to bind up wounds, to heal bruises.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 18, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 18, 1895, par. 16

The lesson we have to learn is, that which John the Baptist had learned, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:30.] Such discipline is painful to human nature, “nevertheless afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruits of righteousness.” [Hebrews 12:11.] “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” [Matthew 5:13.] It is the dragon that is wroth; it is the spirit of Satan that is revealed in anger and accusing. Not a semblance of the dragon’s spirit must be seen in the life or the character of Christ’s servants. The testimony you bear is to be a testimony to the truth as it is in Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 23, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 23, 1899, par. 42

Christ rejoiced in spirit because those things, which men refused because they thought themselves wise, were clearly comprehended by those in humble stations and of far less experience—those who might be called babes in comparison with the men who rejected the light. The man who feels secure in his knowledge must become as a little child in humility and simplicity of spirit, else he will lose eternal lie. He who has intellect should remember that it is God’s gift. However distinguished he may be, there will be no time in his experience when, if he would have the spirit, the power and grace of Christ, he will not have to come to Jesus as humbly as any poor sinner, with the humility of a child. He must ask and be willing to learn the lessons that God has for him to learn. Those who come to Christ in this way will constantly say, “He must increase, and I must decrease.” [John 3:30.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 89, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 89, 1907, par. 17

God cannot glorify His name through His people while they are leaning upon man and making flesh their arm. Their present state of weakness will continue until Christ alone shall be exalted; until, with John the Baptist, they shall say from a humble and reverent heart, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:30.] Words have been given me to speak to the people of God: “Lift Him up, the Man of Calvary. Let humanity stand back, that all may behold Him in whom their hopes of eternal life are centered. Says the prophet Isaiah, ‘Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ [Isaiah 9:6.] Let the church and the world look upon their Redeemer. Let every voice proclaim with John, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.’” [John 1:29.]

The Upward Look

He Must Increase, October 21

UL 308.1

He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30.

UL 308.5

John had by nature the faults and weaknesses common to humanity, but the touch of divine love had transformed him. When, after Christ’s ministry began, the disciples of John came to him with the complaint that all men were following the new teacher, John showed how clearly he understood his relation to the Messiah, and how gladly he welcomed the One for whom he had prepared the way.... “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God....

This Day With God

Consciousness of Sins Forgiven, September 9

TDG 261.1

He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30.

Homeward Bound

Emptied of Self, August 11

HB 248.1

He must increase, but I must decrease.—John 3:30.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 13, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 13, 1889, par. 7

There was opened to the minds precious light that should have been a blessing to them, but God could not do many mighty works in that conference because of their unbelief. There should have been at that meeting patient study of the Scriptures with fasting and earnest prayer before God that we might see eye to eye. This is the only way. There can be no safety in contention of spirit in investigating points of truth, as it must be done in the spirit John had when he said, “He must increase, but I must decrease”—more of Jesus, less of self. [John 3:30.] And as the investigation continues in the spirit of Christ, it will be at last all of Jesus, none of self.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 31, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 31, 1889, par. 3

When our will becomes as the will of God, this precious unity will exist. Said John, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” [John 3:30.] When this shall be among the people of God, when men who claim to be children of God will humble themselves, then Christ will indeed increase as first and last and best in everything.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 5b, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 5b, 1891, par. 21

Again I say, cleave to Jesus. Brother Burke, you have too much to do. You need a helper, and should have one—one with whom you can counsel, and who can labor side by side with you. Even then there will be all the work that two can do well. There is need of one who could go out to attend calls in other places. Thus you could be extending your influence, working unitedly, not to please and glorify self, but to honor God, saying with John, “He (Jesus) must increase. I must decrease.” [John 3:30.]

John 3:31-33

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 114, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 114, 1898, par. 20

The world cannot receive the Spirit of truth because they have not made the truth, which would make them wise unto salvation, their study. They cannot receive truth because they do not see Christ as the truth. They do not know Him. This wisdom is earthly. “And this is life eternal,” said Christ, “that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” “He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.” [John 17:3; 3:31-33.] “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself. He that believeth not God, hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.” [1 John 5:10.]

John 3:31-35

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

MR No. 313—Work Among the Jews

5MR 214.1

[John 3:31-35 quoted.]—Manuscript 1, 1908, 1-6. (“Work Among the Jews,” February 3, 1908.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1101—Work Among the Jews

14MR 138.4

All our works are to be wrought in Christ. By becoming partakers of His nature, His followers are to work His works. The ministry of Christ for men was the interpretation of His great commission to the disciples, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [John 3:31-35, quoted.]—Manuscript 1, 1908.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 1, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 1, 1908, par. 18

“He that cometh from above is above all; he that is of the earth is earthy, and speaketh of the earth: He that cometh from heaven is above all. And what He hath seen and heard, that He testifieth; and no man receiveth His testimony. He that hath received His testimony, hath set to his seal that God is true. For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God; for God giveth not the Spirit by measure into Him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand.” [John 3:31-35.]

John 3:33

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 12—How to Handle Doubts and Confusion

CSA 47.4

And everyone who has passed from death unto life is able to “set to his seal that God is true.” John 3:33. He can testify, “I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was supplied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied; and now the Bible is to me the revelation of Jesus Christ.” ...

Conflict and Courage

Perils Within and Without, December 18

CC 358.6

So may every true believer be able, through his own experience, to “set to his seal that God is true” (John 3:33). He can bear witness to that which he has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ.34Ibid., 553-556.

God’s Amazing Grace

Seen and Heard, September 1

AG 252.4

So everyone may be able, through his own experience, to “set his seal to this, that God is true” (John 3:33, A.R.V.). He can bear witness to that which he himself has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ. He can testify: “I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was supplied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied; the Bible is to me the revelation of Christ. I believe in Jesus because He is to me a divine Saviour. I believe the Bible because I have found it to be the voice of God to my soul.” 2Testimonies for the Church 8:321.

Maranatha

Taste for Yourself, March 7

Mar 74.7

So everyone may be able, through his own experience, to “set his seal to this, that God is true.” John 3:33, A.R.V.... He can testify: “I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was supplied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied.... I believe in Jesus because He is to me a divine Saviour. I believe the Bible because I have found it to be the voice of God to my soul.” 11Testimonies for the Church 8:321.

Steps to Christ

Chapter 12—What to Do with Doubt

SC 112.1

The apostle Paul says that God “hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son.” Colossians 1:13. And everyone who has passed from death unto life is able to “set to his seal that God is true.” John 3:33. He can testify, “I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was supplied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied; and now the Bible is to me the revelation of Jesus Christ. Do you ask why I believe in Jesus? Because He is to me a divine Saviour. Why do I believe the Bible? Because I have found it to be the voice of God to my soul.” We may have the witness in ourselves that the Bible is true, that Christ is the Son of God. We know that we are not following cunningly devised fables.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

An Experimental Knowledge

8T 321.4

So everyone may be able, through his own experience, to “set his seal to this, that God is true.” John 3:33, A. R. V. He can bear witness to that which he himself has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ. He can testify:

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 54—A Faithful Witness

AA 556.1

So may every true believer be able, through his own experience, to “set to his seal that God is true.” John 3:33. He can bear witness to that which he has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ.

The Faith I Live By

The Evidence of Experience, January 10

FLB 16.4

Every one who has passed from death unto life is able to “set to his seal that God is true.” John 3:33. He can testify, “I needed help, and I found it in Jesus. Every want was supplied, the hunger of my soul was satisfied; and now the Bible is to me the revelation of Jesus Christ. Do you ask why I believe in Jesus?—Because He is to me a divine Saviour. Why do I believe the Bible?—Because I have found it to be the voice of God to my soul.” We may have the witness in ourselves that the Bible is true, that Christ is the Son of God. We know that we are not following cunningly devised fables.41Steps to Christ, 112.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 39—The Knowledge Received Through God’s Word

MH 461.4

So everyone may be able, through his own experience, to “set his seal to this, that God is true.” John 3:33, A.R.V. He can bear witness to that which he himself has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ. He can testify:

John 3:33-34

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 45, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 45, 1902, par. 11

“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. ... That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [Verses 14, 9.] “He that hath received His testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God; for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.” [John 3:33, 34.] “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]

John 3:33-36

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 26, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, par. 18

The Word is our Instructor. All who will be doers of the Word, in sincerity and truth, will behold His glory, “the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” Then there is indeed a new birth, a transformation of character. “Of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [Verses 14, 16.] This makes us “living epistles, known and read of all men.” [See 2 Corinthians 3:2.] “He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hands. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 3:33-36.]

John 3:34

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 41, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 41, 1910, par. 10

We all need in our lives the power of the grace of our Lord. We need daily to receive the grace of Christ. Of the Saviour it is written, “Thy God hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.” [Psalm 45:7.] “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power” [Acts 10:38], and this power Christ is ever ready to impart in its fulness to those who come to Him with full purpose of heart. “God gave not the Spirit by measure unto Him,” and of His fulness the church on earth is to receive. [John 3:34; 1:16.] “The same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him.” [1 John 2:27.] “Now He which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; who hath also sealed us, and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.” [2 Corinthians 1:21, 22.] “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law.” [Galatians 5:22.]

John 3:34-36

Manuscript Release No. 760

Introductory Note :

MR760 18.1

John, the beloved disciple, bears witness: [John 1:1-4, 14-16; 3:34-36 quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 27, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 27, 1897, par. 15

“For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not have life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 3:34-36.] Here is the whole question settled. All who are eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God, are abiding in Christ, and Christ in them. “The flesh profiteth nothing,” Christ said, “the words that I speak unto you they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:63.] If there is an appreciation of the Word, then the Word will be obeyed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 145, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 145, 1905, par. 17

“He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God; for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 3:34-36.]

John 3:35

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 266, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 266, 1903, par. 20

“The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hands.” [John 3:35.] “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell.” [Colossians 1:19.] “God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” [Philippians 2:9-11.] “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him, and for Him; and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” [Colossians 1:16, 17.]

John 3:36

Conflict and Courage

Separate Ways, March 6

CC 71.1

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life. John 3:36.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 33—The First Great Deception

GC 533.1

Immortality, promised to man on condition of obedience, had been forfeited by transgression. Adam could not transmit to his posterity that which he did not possess; and there could have been no hope for the fallen race had not God, by the sacrifice of His Son, brought immortality within their reach. While “death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned,” Christ “hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” Romans 5:12; 2 Timothy 1:10. And only through Christ can immortality be obtained. Said Jesus: “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” John 3:36. Every man may come into possession of this priceless blessing if he will comply with the conditions. All “who by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality,” will receive “eternal life.” Romans 2:7.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 33—The First Great Deception

GC88 533.1

Immortality, promised to man on condition of obedience, had been forfeited by transgression. Adam could not transmit to his posterity that which he did not possess; and there could have been no hope for the fallen race, had not God, by the sacrifice of his Son, brought immortality within their reach. While “death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned,” Christ “hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” [Romans 5:12; 2 Timothy 1:10.] And only through Christ can immortality be obtained. Said Jesus, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” [John 3:36.] Every man may come in possession of this priceless blessing if he will comply with the conditions. All “who by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality,” will receive eternal life. [Romans 2:7.]

From Here to Forever

Chapter 33—What Lies Beyond the Grave?

HF 329.1

The tree of life had the power of perpetuating life. Adam would have continued to enjoy free access to this tree and have lived forever, but when he sinned he was cut off from the tree of life and became subject to death. Immortality had been forfeited by transgression. There could have been no hope for the fallen race had not God, by the sacrifice of His Son, brought immortality within their reach. While “death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned,” Christ “hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” Only through Christ can immortality be obtained. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” Romans 5:12; 2 Timothy 1:10; John 3:36.

From the Heart

The Royal Family, March 12

FH 83.1

He who believes in the Son has everlasting life. John 3:36.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Chapter 4—Everlasting Life

GrH_c 14.5

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 14, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 14, 1889, par. 45

Jesus says in solemn accents, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life, and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 3:36.] While Christ was teaching the most important truth, there arose a question between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purifying. This was one of the ways the Pharisees worked when the truth they saw was affecting men’s consciences. They would start some question of little importance to create a dispute and thus divert the minds that they saw were being convicted.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 92, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 92, 1899, par. 23

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” [Hebrews 4:16.] “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. ... And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.” “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life, and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 1:14, 16; 3:36.]

Darkness Before Dawn

Immortality Forfeited by Transgression

DD 14.3

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 12, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, par. 7

In the prayer which Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion, He said, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] Only the religion that comes from God will lead to God. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” [John 3:36.] There is in his heart a well of living water, the influence of which is felt by all with whom he is associated.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 371, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, par. 26

To my brethren I now say: “Speak words that will draw souls to Christ. Bring forth fruit in good works. ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’” [John 3:36.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Who Are Eligible? December 8

AG 350.2

God has elected a character in harmony with His law, and anyone who shall reach the standard of His requirement will have an entrance into the kingdom of glory. Christ Himself said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not on the Son shall not see life” (John 3:36). “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). And in the Revelation He declares, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14). As regards man’s final salvation, this is the only election brought to view in the Word of God.

Our Father Cares

Belief in Christ Means Everlasting Life, January 5

OFC 16.1

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life. John 3:36.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 19—The Return to Canaan

PP 207.4

There was no arbitrary choice on the part of God by which Esau was shut out from the blessings of salvation. The gifts of His grace through Christ are free to all. There is no election but one’s own by which any may perish. God has set forth in His word the conditions upon which every soul will be elected to eternal life—obedience to His commandments, through faith in Christ. God has elected a character in harmony with His law, and anyone who shall reach the standard of His requirement will have an entrance into the kingdom of glory. Christ Himself said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” John 3:36. “Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. And in the Revelation He declares, “Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Revelation 22:14. As regards man’s final salvation, this is the only election brought to view in the word of God.

Selected Messages Book 1

The Work and the Helpers

1SM 57.1

To my brethren I now say: Speak words that will draw souls to Christ. Bring forth fruit in good works. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life” (John 3:36). Every conceivable thing will be brought in to deceive, if possible, the very elect; but the Lord will certainly take care of His work.—The Writing and Sending Out of the Testimonies to the Church, 10-16.

Sons and Daughters of God

Belief in Him Means Everlasting Life, January 17

SD 23.1

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life. John 3:36.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 42—Tradition

DA 396.3

Whenever the message of truth comes home to souls with special power, Satan stirs up his agents to start a dispute over some minor question. Thus he seeks to attract attention from the real issue. Whenever a good work is begun, there are cavilers ready to enter into dispute over forms or technicalities, to draw minds away from the living realities. When it appears that God is about to work in a special manner for His people, let them not be enticed into a controversy that will work only ruin of souls. The questions that most concern us are, Do I believe with saving faith on the Son of God? Is my life in harmony with the divine law? “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” “And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” John 3:36; 1 John 2:3.