EGW WritingsJohn 5

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 11, 1883

4LtMs, Lt 11, 1883, par. 22

If thou art destroyed, it is thyself who are alone responsible. “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] “If thou, even thou hadst known the things which belong to thy peace.” [Luke 19:42.] Oh, in the words of Christ, “Thou, even thou” is applicable to us individually. We may make a solemn application. We may view Him stooping over His throne yearning with tenderness and pity over those who have no pity for themselves. We hear Him say to us, “If thou hadst been faithful to search thy Bible with humble, prayerful hearts and with a desire to know, how light would have been thy future.” Today is ours. Each of us has a day of visitation. This, thy day, is the present time. It is not tomorrow, but today. If ye will hear His voice harden not your hearts. “If this day ye receive Me, your Saviour, peace is yours, heaven is yours, for I will pardon your transgressions.”

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 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 72, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 72, 1890, par. 24

In the death of Christ you have a testimony of His love for you. I value your soul because I see what Christ valued it. Then, I beg of you, do not withhold from Christ your soul. It is the purchase of His blood. God will give to man an evidence, overwhelming evidence, that He will accept his repentance, He will forgive his transgressions, and in pitying tenderness He invites you to come unto Him that you might have life. Shall He say, “Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life.” John 5:40.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 36, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 36, 1892, par. 18

Be no longer on Satan’s side of the question. Make decided, radical changes through the grace given you of God. No longer insult His grace. He is saying with tears, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Now Jesus is inviting you, knocking at the door of your heart for entrance. Will you let Him come in? I feel that you must not delay. Come just now, come surrender to God, confess your backslidings, turn fully to Jesus, and He will make you free. <I write with the deepest, tenderest feelings toward you, and do not let the enemy make you believe otherwise. In much love, Mother.>

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 20, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 20, 1892, par. 32

Sin is death; righteousness is life. Sin cannot be changed into righteousness, but it can be taken away, and the righteousness of Christ put in its place. The Saviour was manifested to take away our sin. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.” [Romans 6:23.] The Pharisees trusted in their own righteousness, of which Christ said, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.] Of the Jewish leaders, He said, “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The righteousness of Christ brings life and healing. “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.” [Colossians 2:6.] In Him all fulness dwells.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 21, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 21, 1891, par. 24

So long had the Jews refused to walk in the light of truth that they rejected their Saviour. Jesus said of the Jews: “Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] He, the Light of life, came to enlighten every man that comes into the world, so that no man need walk in darkness. The light of truth is constantly shining, but many men and women comprehend it not. And why?—because selfishness, egotism, pride blinds their spiritual eyesight. Standing between them and the true light, is the idol of their own opinion. They can see very readily that which they wish to see. Saith the True Witness: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” [Revelation 2:7.] “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him.” [Psalm 25:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 16a, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 16a, 1892, par. 10

Anciently the Lord sent to His people prophets, rising early and sending them, that the people might not destroy themselves; but they beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. How solemnly has Jesus warned and graciously invited the erring, presenting eternal rewards for a life of obedience. For the children of men He has toiled and travelled and interceded, enduring privation, and laboring with self-consuming zeal to relieve the wants and woes of the fallen race. For their sake He made Himself of no reputation; but He utters the mournful cry, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 61, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 61, 1891, par. 9

To everyone inquiring, “What must I do to be saved?” I answer, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Do not doubt for a moment but that He wants to save you just as you are. He says to the Jews, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Let not this be said of Reuben and you, and your helper in your household. Jesus wants to save you, to give you peace and rest and assurance while you live, and eternal life in His kingdom at last. No one will be compelled to be saved. The Lord Jesus forces the will of none. He says to all, Choose ye this day whom ye will serve. The mind and heart given to Jesus Christ will find rest in His love.

In Heavenly Places

Abiding in Christ, February 18

HP 55.3

Do not stand outside of Christ, as many professed Christians of today. To “abide in me, and I in you” is a possible thing to do, and the invitation would not be given if you could not do this. Jesus our Saviour is constantly drawing you by His Holy Spirit, working with your mind that you will abide with Christ.... The blessings He bestows are all connected with your own individual action. Shall Christ be refused? He says, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:37). Of another class He says, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 98, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 98, 1893, par. 27

You must cry no more. You must hang down your head no more as a bulrush. You must look to an uplifted Saviour and believe He saves you, be your sins ever so grievous. All the drugs, all the medicine, manufactured in the world could not save one poor soul bitten by the venemous serpent. God has a remedy for the sinner. “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. Christ the world’s Redeemer said of the scribes and Pharisees: “And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 10, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 10, 1893, par. 7

After you comply with this condition and come with your whole heart to the Lord, casting every idol from the soul temple, and surrender yourself to Jesus, fully purposed to carry no longer the load of your own case but roll the whole upon Jesus, then do not gather up all your burdens again, and evidence [that] you dare not trust yourself and your burdens with Jesus. You doubt, murmur, and manufacture burdens and yokes which are grievous to bear, and do not surrender yourselves a living sacrifice to Him who wants you to be saved so much that He gave His life for you. Has He not invited us to come to Him? Has He not said He will give you rest? Has He not said in sorrowful words to those who do not comply with His invitations, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] If we would behold Him full of grace and truth, look steadfastly to Jesus in living faith. He will make all His goodness to pass before us while He hides us in the cleft of the Rock, and we will endure seeing Him who is invisible, and become transformed by beholding. A careless indulgence in sin, and regarding sin lightly is because we do not see Jesus, and know Jesus by an experimental knowledge; in this condition duty is estimated very lightly. Faithful integrity in the performance of duty go hand in hand with the right estimate of the character of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 99, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 99, 1894, par. 11

All these precious lessons were to make an impression upon the hearts of His disciples, and were to be revived and deepened by the Holy Spirit. They were to mold and fashion the character in order that they might represent Christ to the world and show the spiritual character of His kingdom. They learned of Christ that they must give up forms and maxims and customs in order to reach minds and bring souls to Him, but not to please the whole world were they to surrender one jot or tittle of vital truth. Christ was the way, the truth, and the life; He was the Sun of Righteousness. He was fully aware that darkness had covered the earth, and gross darkness the people, and were He to withdraw His beams the world would be left in eternal night. But as many as received Him were go to forth to show the praises of Him who had called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. “He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” [John 1:11.] He said unto them, “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 22, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 22, 1894, par. 34

I write with pain of heart that the love of God is very feebly represented among us. God Himself is not in our assemblies because the cold iron of self remains unmelted. We know little of the midnight struggles of Jacob in surrendering all <of his self> to God, and exercising conquering faith in God. The religion of Christ is well nigh choked out of many of the hearts of those who stand in positions of responsibility, and they are putting their own ideas and their own works before the words and works of their professed Master. The woes of God’s creatures are passed by as unworthy of their attention. “Ye will not come unto me,” says Christ, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 58, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 58, 1895, par. 12

How many in their religious life are symbolized by the fig tree! What have we returned to God for all the bounties He has given us? He gave His life. He came from heaven to seek and save perishing souls. For our sake He became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich. What love is expressed in behalf of the human family! He offers them the rich treasures of heaven. He offers to them peace which the world cannot give or take away. He offers to them a vital connection with Himself, that they shall become sons and daughters of God. What an honor! But all the universe of heaven is looking upon the impenitent, stubborn, rebellious souls that refuse the heavenly gift, and with sadness He exclaims, “Ye will not come unto me.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 70, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 70, 1895, par. 7

The most solemn period of the history of the Jewish nation was when Christ walked in their midst. It was the generation to whom He revealed such marvelous mercy; upon whom He bestowed such wonderful blessings, before whom He performed greater works than ever had been witnessed by man before; it was the generation that testified, “Never man spake like this man,” that rejected the Lord of glory. [John 7:46.] Their eyes were so blinded by their false hopes of a temporal kingdom, so that they could not recognize their King. The stubborn impenitent course which they pursued continually refusing to accept the teachings of Christ decided their destiny, both for this life and the life to come. Evidence was heaped upon evidence, but they willfully rejected it all. Their destruction was determined by their own course of action, in refusing to accept the only provision Heaven had made for their salvation. They alone were responsible for the eternal loss which they sustained. Our Saviour said, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have eternal life.” [John 5:40.] In rejecting Him, they cut themselves off from life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 35, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 35, 1895, par. 8

The most solemn responsibility for the Jewish nation was when Jesus was in their midst. It was that generation, the generation who rejected him, that was the guilty one. Jesus, speaking sometimes by warning, by judgments, by blessing given and withdrawn, said, “Ye would none of my counsel, ye despised all my reproofs.” [Proverbs 1:25.] If thou art destroyed, it is thyself alone who are responsible. “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Warning, expostulation, forbearance, and patience are about to close.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 97, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 97, 1895, par. 55

I pray most earnestly that the Lord Jesus will reveal Himself to you. Come to Him just as you are, give yourself to Him, grasp His promises by living faith, and He will be to you all that you desire. To one inquiring, “What must I do to be saved?” I answer, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” [Acts 16:30, 31.] Do not for one moment doubt that He will save you just as you are if you only come to Him. He said to the Jews, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Let not this be said of you and your wife.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 3, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 8

I wish you carefully to consider the manner of your life and character. Are you righteous, merciful, pure, and just? Your sins against God have been described as of an aggravated character. You desire the Lord to forgive you for all your misconduct, but are you as ready to forgive others as He is to forgive you? You have not spiritual light, because you walk away from the light and choose darkness rather than light. Jesus invited the Jews who stood aloof from Him to come unto Him. He said, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Christ is the life of the world, yet they refused Him, and stood apart from Him, criticizing His words and His works. They did not feed upon Him, and receive Him into their spiritual life.

In Heavenly Places

Trust Yourself With God, April 14

HP 111.3

Let us trust God’s word implicitly, remembering that we are His sons and daughters. Let us train ourselves to believe His word. We hurt the heart of Christ by doubting, when He has given such evidence of His love. He laid down His life to save us. He says to us: “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest....” Do you believe He will do as He has said? Then, after you have complied with the conditions, carry no longer the burden of your sins. Let it roll upon the Saviour. Trust yourself with Him. Has He not promised to give you rest? But to many He is obliged to say sorrowfully, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40).31The Review and Herald, February 28, 1907.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 72, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 72, 1895, par. 8

This was His parable. The Pharisees would not receive His lessons. His teachings were the very things they needed, because they were indeed sick; but, He said, ye will not come unto Me, that ye might have life, spiritual health, and soundness of principle. [John 5:40.] “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] Those who felt their need He could help, [but the Pharisees] entertained the idea that they needed no enlightenment. They were perfectly satisfied with their spiritual condition.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 15a, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 15a, 1896, par. 5

No reflection should be cast upon Elder Rousseau, but this will most assuredly be the result of the course you have pursued. I could not advise the managers of the school to retain you in the school while you were leading other boys astray. If you will not be influenced and controlled by those wiser than you, if evil practices seem more desirable to you than those set forth in the Word of God, you will influence others in the wrong direction. Said Christ: “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The power of purpose to resist temptation comes from Christ alone.

11LtMs, Lt 15a, 1896, par. 6

Your course of action in the past has not been an honor to your parents. They know not what to do with you; and what courage can they have to expend their means in giving you opportunity to gain an education? If, in your present state of character, they should send you to school among worldlings, you would drink in the evil as an ox drinks water. If you had moral power to resist temptation, you could influence others to resist, but you are now so full of your own inventions, that an opportunity given you to obtain an education would be worse than thrown away. You would pluck of the fruit of the forbidden tree of knowledge, and would feel a pride in thus showing your bravery. “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [Verse 40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 29, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, par. 3

To the Pharisees Christ said, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Every soul needs the light and life that Christ alone can give, and more and more of this light will be given us as we improve the opportunities we have for obtaining it. But there are those who refuse the precious privilege brought within their reach, the opportunities for obtaining light and comfort and knowledge in heavenly things, who refuse to partake of the heavenly banquet prepared for them. But these are as accountable to God as if they had heard and rejected the message which He has sent them. Christ says of all such, “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 every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 30a, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, par. 11

This generation is making itself guilty of the rejection of Christ. He presents invitations and warnings. Shall these solemn warnings be rejected? Bear in mind that if they are, you yourselves are responsible. “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The world is rushing on madly, blindly, infatuated with amusements, with horse-racing and gambling, without a thought of the final retribution that is coming. Whole cities are being destroyed by fire and tempest. Is your house built securely on the solid rock?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 64, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 64, 1897, par. 29

As the world’s Redeemer apparent failure was constantly confronting Christ. From His birth He contended with poverty. He, the Majesty of heaven, the messenger of mercy to our world, in His own estimation seemed to do so little of that work which He longed to do in uplifting and saving because of the satanic influences that were working in minds and hearts of priests and rulers to oppose His way. “Ye will not come unto me,” He said, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killest the prophets and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye (could not? no) would not.” [Luke 13:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 175, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 175, 1897, par. 2

There is much to do in writing, but my strength is not sufficient to take hold of the work on the life of Christ—His betrayal, His trial in the judgment hall, His crucifixion. All these things rend my soul and cause me such sorrow of heart that so few appreciate. Oh, if they could only appreciate that heart of love for the human family, lost, ruined, through sin; and He, the Son of the living God, came to seek and to save that which was lost, and they would not be found. All who seek Him with their whole heart will hate sin, although, like Christ, they will seek to save the sinners. And a hungry wishfulness was ever in the heart of Christ for the guilty transgressor of the law of God, who must be punished for his transgression. He would save men, not in their sins, but from their sins. He says, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” [John 5:40]; and when one soul learns of Jesus, and finds in Him that everlasting strength which begins where mortal strength has failed, then the heart of Christ is made glad and there is joy and singing in the heavenly courts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 67, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 67, 1897, par. 6

He saw men perishing, and with tender longing of soul He looked pityingly upon them, and with quivering lips He said, Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life. [John 5:40.] He was grieved every day to see men closing the door of their hearts against Him; men, the object of His tenderest regard, requited His compassion with fixed hostility and defiance. O, why should it be thus? The conduct of man made a constant demand upon Christ’s forbearance, a perpetual drain on His pity, sufficient to exhaust every heart but the one that is replenished at the fountainhead of compassion itself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 102, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 102, 1897, par. 19

The most solemn period of responsibility for the Jewish nation was when Christ was in their midst, working the works of God. It was that generation that rejected the Messiah. Christ addressed them as the most guilty, because they had the Word of God. “It is not only delegates, servants, and prophets to whom you have refused to listen,” He declared, “but your Redeemer. Ye would none of my counsel, ye despised all my reproof. Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me? If thou art destroyed, O Jerusalem, thyself alone wilt be responsible. Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [See Proverbs 1:30; John 14:9; 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 16, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 16, 1897, par. 29

Those who have fled to God for refuge; those who have believed the heaven-sent message, who believe the assurance that if they confess their sins, He is faithful and just to forgive them their sins, God will cleanse from all unrighteousness. Our God has pledged His Word by His own greatness and infinity that He will bestow pardon and peace upon all who will come to Him in the name of Jesus. The blood of Jesus Christ is efficacious, and will cleanse from all sin if you will choose to be cleansed. But if you allow unbelief to stand in the way of the reception of the current of His love, His gracious forgiveness, you will remain in your sins. Of such Christ declares, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

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

MR No. 747—Christ Our Righteousness

9MR 298.3

So long had the Jews refused to walk in the light of truth, that they rejected their Saviour. Jesus said of the Jews: “Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40). He, the Light of life, came to enlighten every man that comes into the world, so that no man need walk in darkness. The light of truth is constantly shining, but many men and women comprehend it not. And why?—Because selfishness, egotism, pride, blinds their spiritual eyesight. Standing between them and the true light, is the idol of their own opinion. They can see very readily that which they wish to see. Saith the True Witness: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God” (Revelation 2:7). “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him” (Psalm 25:14).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 71, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 71, 1897, par. 18

The most terribly momentous period of the Jewish nation was at that time when Jesus was in their midst. Yet it was this generation, that had been honored and favored above all people upon the earth, who were guilty of rejecting all the importunity of the yearning love of Christ. “Ye would none of my counsels,” He says; “ye despised all my reproofs.” [Proverbs 1:30.] “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Therefore your destruction lieth at your own door: you are yourselves responsible.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 106, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 106, 1898, par. 16

Satan is the destroyer, the Lord is the Restorer. The Lord has not worked as a physician in the way that He desires to work, because, He says, Ye will not come unto Me, that I may give you life. [John 5:40.] We look to every source for relief from suffering and death but to the One who proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Christ came into our world to seek and to save that which was lost. His work as the One who heals all manner of diseases in unequaled. There are those whom the Lord uses as His co-laborers in the medical missionary work. These God is seeking to illuminate, that they may receive light and knowledge to communicate to others, and thus brighten the dark pathway of those who are oppressed by suffering and disease. If the sufferers would only come in faith to the divine Healer, they would see of the salvation of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 194, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 194, 1898, par. 9

“Abide in me.” Do not stand outside of Christ, as many professed Christians of today. To “abide in me, and I in you” is a possible thing to do, and the invitation would not be given if you could not do this. [John 15:4.] Jesus our Saviour is constantly drawing you by His Holy Spirit, working with your mind that you will abide with Christ. You have wandered from Him who is your light, your life, your salvation. The blessings He bestows are all connected with your own individual action. Shall Christ be refused? He says, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. Of another class He says, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5:40. The Lord Jesus knew man could not save himself. He must be saved by a power outside of himself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 9, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 23

Was the unbelief of the Jews excusable? Were they guiltless? Christ’s words to them made them responsible. He addressed them as responsible agents, setting before them their duty. God from heaven attested His divine mission, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:17.] But through the intensity of their passions, their prejudice and hatred against Christ, the priests and rulers had closed the eyes of their understanding that they should not discern Christ. His grand work of mercy and tender compassion were unheeded by them. The sick were healed, the sorrowing and suffering one were comforted and relieved, the dead heard His voice and came forth to life. But the rulers of Israel closed their hearts to the Messiah. Lessons and appeals fell from His lips with so convincing a power that they were convicted of the truth, but they resisted the impressions made by the Holy Spirit. Christ said to them, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 154, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 154, 1898, par. 26

A daily consecration to God brings peace and rest. The merchant sold all that he had to possess the pearl. When those who are seeking for salvation refuse to fail or be discouraged, they will find peace and rest in the Lord. Christ will clothe them with His righteousness. He will provide them with a clean heart and a renewed mind. These blessings cost the life of the Son of God, and are freely offered to us, those for whom the sacrifice was made. But how do many treat the offered gifts? They turn away, choosing rather the pleasures of this life. Christ says of them, “Ye would not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 31a, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 14

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem,” Christ cried as He stood on Mount Olivet, and looked down over the city, “Thou that killest the prophets and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not.” [Matthew 23:37.] It was this generation, then acting its part under the guidance of Satan, that was guilty of the murder of the Son of God. A solemn responsibility rested upon the Jewish people when Christ was among them; but the wisdom of His appeals could not reach their hard, impenitent hearts. “Ye would not come unto me that ye might have life,” He declared. [John 5:40.] “Ye would none of my counsel: ye despised all my reproof. If thou art destroyed, thou thyself art responsible.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 37, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 37, 1899, par. 8

This people had closed their eyes that they should not see and their ears that they should not hear. They themselves had loaded the cloud of vengeance which burst upon them to their destruction. “Ye will not come unto me,” Christ said, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The sure fate of Jerusalem, the harrowing scenes of her destruction as the result of their course of action, stood clearly revealed to Him, and He broke forth into the mournful lamentation, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Matthew 23:37-39.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 214, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 214, 1899, par. 9

I often praise God for the privilege of acting a part in this work. And when we know that our precious Saviour had so many discouragements because of the wicked spirit of the Jewish nation, and because so few responded to His message and His ministry in their behalf, can we not consent to be partakers with Him in His sufferings? We can understand Christ’s sorrow as He searched for fruit on the flourishing, pretentious fig tree, and found none to satisfy His soul hunger. We must never forget that our blessed Saviour, with hunger of soul, said to those for whom He had done so much, “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 166, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 166, 1899, par. 6

Trials will come, but these are to educate the worker to look to Jesus. Trusting in his heavenly Father, he is to go forward, working out his own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in him, both to will and to do of His own good pleasure. Christ said of some, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Let us all who have a knowledge of the truth obey the words, “Go work today in my vineyard;” and thus obtain greater knowledge. [Matthew 21:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 193, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 193, 1899, par. 7

The loss of every pound is of little consequence in comparison with the worth of his soul. It is his soul for which I am burdened. Shall Christ say of this youth, “Ye would not come unto Me that ye might have life? Ye would none of My counsel; ye despised all My reproof. If thou art unsaved, it is thou thyself who art responsible.” [See John 5:40 and Proverbs 1:30.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 231, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 231, 1899, par. 12

I carry this people on my heart day and night. God is calling for them. “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations: that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep my Sabbaths, therefore; for it is holy unto you.” [Exodus 31:12-14.] How can we open the eyes that have so long been blinded? Shall Christ give this plain requirement in vain? Shall He be compelled to say to the people in Maitland and Newcastle, “Ye would not come unto me that ye might have life”? [John 5:40.] What is the life of which He speaks? A life that measures with the life of God. A treasure in the heavens that faileth not.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 5, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, par. 20

Why do we turn from divine wisdom to human wisdom? God sees the dishonor we do Him. He knows that in humanity we shall find no solace for our woe, and He pities us because we are so needy, yet so unwilling to make Him our confidant, our burden-bearer. He sees human beings slighting the love and mercy provided for them, and He says sadly, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 140, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, par. 61

We are in great danger of losing Christ, the vital essence of the message. We shall not work the works of God because of possessing talent or having great knowledge, for more than mortal ability must be brought into the devising of successful plans. In their supposed human wisdom, men may turn and overturn, and yet not cure existing, discouraging evils. While professing to preach Christ, we are in sore danger of losing the Spirit of Christ because of neglecting to practice His words, which is called eating His flesh and drinking His blood. We need more of Christ’s love in our life to transform our characters. It is a vitalizing current from Jesus. I write with pain of heart that the love of God is very feebly represented among us. God Himself is not in our assemblies because the cold iron of self remains unmelted. We know little of the midnight struggles of Jacob in surrendering all to God and exercising conquering faith in God. The religion of Christ is well-nigh choked out of many of the hearts of those who stand in positions of responsibility, and they are putting their own ideas and their own works before the words and works of their professed Master. The woes of God’s creatures are passed by as unworthy of their attention. “Ye will not come unto me,” says Christ, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 119, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 119, 1901, par. 1

I am up at one o’clock, my soul filled with sorrow on your account, because your whole moral taste is diseased by a perverted will. You have never been converted for any length of time. The hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong which you cherish place you on the losing side in the battle of life. God pities you. Christ wants to receive you. He desires to sanctify you by His Holy Spirit. Yet you continue in darkness and perversity, and the Saviour says to you, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Repent and be converted, else in the great day when every case is brought up in review before God, when it is too late for anything to be changed, you will see your unlikeness to Christ. You will say, “I did it all myself. No one else is to blame. I did it. I did it,” while around you will be heard the joyous shouts of those who have washed their robes of character and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 303, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 303, 1903, par. 21

Christ’s life was one of continual trial in our behalf. Divinity was hidden under the garb of humanity. But how many poor, sinful mortals endeavor to climb to the highest pinnacle of self-exaltation! Christ turns away in grief. With quivering lips and with weeping He says, “Ye will not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] He knows that unless these erring ones reform, they must perish. He has paid a heavy ransom for their redemption; but still they refuse to represent before the world, in word and deed, the meek and lowly Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 76, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 76, 1903, par. 16

Wake up, my brethren and sisters. We have no time to spend in wringing our hands and in mourning that the Sanitarium has been destroyed. A wider outlook has been given us. Let us inquire of the Lord His mind and will. Will not the managers of the institution make thorough self-examination? Attempt after attempt has been made to burn the Sanitarium. Do not these things speak to the managers, telling them to look back at the way in which they have carried out their plans? Again and again reproof has come to them from God, but these messages have not led them to take heed. Message after message has been sent that plants should be made in many places. A most solemn review should now be made. God has been speaking, sometimes by unacknowledged mercies, oftentimes by threatened judgments. By blessings bestowed and blessings removed, He has sought to bring about the needed change of action. Well may He say, “What could have been done more in My vineyard, that I have not done in it?” [Isaiah 5:4.] Shall the word be spoken, “Ye would none of My counsel, ye despised all My reproofs,” “Ye would not come unto Me that ye might have life”? [See Proverbs 1:30; John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 87, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 87, 1903, par. 11

In the death of Christ propitiation was made for every son and daughter of Adam. He died “that whosoever believeth on Him might not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] But many, who might lay their sins upon the Sin-bearer, choose to retain them. Of them Christ says, “Ye would not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] For them Christ has died in vain, and the hour will come when they will realize that they are forsaken by God. The human friends in whom they have trusted cannot pay the ransom for their souls. They will be lost, eternally lost.

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

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

12MR 140.2

Sin is death; righteousness is life. Sin cannot be changed into righteousness, but it can be taken away and the righteousness of Christ put in its place. The Saviour was manifested to take away our sin. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life” (Romans 6:23). The Pharisees trusted in their own righteousness, of which Christ said, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). Of the Jewish leaders, He said, “Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40). The righteousness of Christ brings life and healing. “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him” (Colossians 2:6). In Him all fullness dwells.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 177, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, par. 1

God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lesson He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings, He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says, “I have come to you in mercy and judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, thou thyself art responsible. Ye would not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [See John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 56, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 56, 1904, par. 28

I know that I must meet at the bar of God every soul here today. In that day I want to be able to say, “I have given them the message that God has given me.” There are those here today who are unready to meet the Lord. He desires His name to be glorified in them. He wants the light of heaven to fill their souls. He asks them, “Will you not come to Me, that you may have life?” [See John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 377, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, par. 21

God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lesson He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says. “I have come to you in mercy and in judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach.” “Ye would none of My counsel, ye despised all My reproofs. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, it is thyself who art responsible.” “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 175, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, par. 17

God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lessons He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings, He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says, “I have come to you in mercy and judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach. Ye would none of My counsel, ye despised all My reproofs. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, thou thyself art responsible. Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [See Proverbs 1:30; John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 317, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 317, 1905, par. 14

Christ was approaching the end of His mission, and He knew that when that time should come, Jerusalem’s day of probation would have ended. But He was reluctant to pronounce the words of doom. For three years He had been seeking for fruit, but had found none. During these three years, one object was ever upon His soul—to present before His thankless, disobedient people the solemn warnings and gracious invitations of heaven. He greatly desired that the Jewish people should receive His words. How graciously He had invited them. How anxiously He labored to awaken in their hearts the comprehension that He was the promised Messiah, the only hope of Israel. In their behalf He has clothed His divinity with humanity. The Prince of heaven, He had humbled Himself to take the form of a servant. His lifework was to convince His disobedient people that He was their only hope. He carried them on His heart. He did all that He could to save them. But at the close of His work in this world He was forced to say of them, “Ye would not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [See John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 53, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 53, 1905, par. 9

Our Saviour’s words were plain and decided. He did not suppress one word of truth, but spoke the truth with convincing earnestness. And as He spoke, the desponding drew nearer and were filled with hope and courage. He was the Prince of heaven. He never spoke a word to give needless pain to any trembling, sensitive soul. He looked with sorrow upon those who rejected Him and made light of His words, and said, “Ye will not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 317a, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 317a, 1905, par. 16

Christ was approaching the end of His mission, and He knew that when that time should come, Jerusalem’s day of probation would have ended. But He was reluctant to pronounce the words of doom. For three years He had come, seeking fruit and finding none. During these years one object was ever upon His soul—to present before His thankless, disobedient people the solemn warnings and gracious invitations of heaven. He greatly desired that the people should receive His words. How graciously He had invited them. How anxiously He had labored to awaken in their hearts the comprehension that He was the only hope of Israel, the promised Messiah. In their behalf He had clothed His divinity with humanity. The Prince of heaven, He had humbled Himself to take the form of a servant. His lifework was to convince His disobedient people that He was their only hope. He carried them on His heart. He did all that He could do to save them. But at the end of His work in this world He was forced to say, “Ye would not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 326, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 326, 1906, par. 16

Keep the eye off faith fixed upon the Redeemer. He knows the meaning of bodily and mental suffering. He tried to save the souls of all, but in agony He was forced to say of many, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] But few have received His offers of mercy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 11, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, par. 21

The science of overcoming as Christ overcame is the science of salvation. If we will unite with Christ in the work of developing Christian character, if we will maintain unwavering faith in God and in the truths of His Word, we will be given strength to overcome every evil thing in this life. But there are some to whom Christ says today, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life—eternal life which My Father will give to all who believe. I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” He pleads, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [See John 5:40; 14:6; Matthew 11:28.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Only Source of Help, October 17

JNN 306.1

“But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.”—John 5:40

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).

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 55—Presented as Old Truth in New Framework

1SM 358.2

Let us consider our condition before God; let us heed the counsel of the True Witness. Let none of us be filled with prejudice, as were the Jews, that light may not come into our hearts. Let it not be necessary for Christ to say of us as He did of them, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:40).

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.

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 21

Let us consider our condition before God; let us heed the counsel of the True Witness. Let none of us be filled with prejudice, as were the Jews, that light may not come into our hearts. Let it not be necessary for Christ to say of us as He did of them, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 51

By many the words which the Lord sent will be rejected, and the words that man may speak will be received as light and truth. Jesus says, “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.” [John 5:43.] Human wisdom will lead away from self-denial, from consecration, and will devise many things that tend to make of no effect God’s messages. We cannot with any safety rely upon men who are not in close connection with God. They will accept the opinions of men, but cannot discern the voice of the True Shepherd, and their influence will lead many astray, though evidence is piled upon evidence testifying to the verity of truth for these days. The truth is powerful to turn men to Christ, to quicken their energies, to subdue and soften their hearts, and inspire them with zeal, devotion, and love to God. The Sabbath truth must in no case be covered up. We must let it appear in strong contrast with error.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

The Spirit of Discernment

1SAT 142.2

Well now, how are we going to know anything about that message if we are not in a position to recognize anything of the light of heaven when it comes to us? And we will just as soon pick up the darkest deception when it comes to us from somebody that agrees with us, when we have not a particle of evidence that the Spirit of God has sent them. Christ said, “I come in the name of my Father, but ye will not receive me” [see John 5:43]. Now, that is just the work that has been going on here ever since the meeting at Minneapolis. Because God sends a message in his name that does not agree with your ideas, therefore [you conclude] it cannot be a message from God. How dare you run the risk of trying in the least to shut [Remainder Missing]

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

The Spirit of Discernment

1888 609.2

Well now, how are we going to know anything about that message if we are not in a position to recognize anything of the light of heaven when it comes to us? And we will just as soon pick up the darkest deception when it comes to us from somebody that agrees with us, when we have not a particle of evidence that the Spirit of God has sent them. Christ said, “I come in the name of my Father, but ye will not receive me” [see John 5:43]. Now, that is just the work that has been going on here ever since the meeting at Minneapolis. Because God sends a message in his name that does not agree with your ideas, therefore [you conclude] it cannot be a message from God. How dare you run the risk of trying in the least to shut

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 4, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 27

You may encase yourselves in pride and continue to reject Christ in the person of His messengers. <When men> do this, the words of the <apostle> will find an application in their case, as in the time of the Jews: “He came 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.” [John 1:11, 12.] Said Christ, “I am come in my Father’s name, and you received me not. If another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.” [John 5:43.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 2, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 2, 1890, par. 9

Well now, how are we going to know anything about that message if we are not in a position to recognize anything of the light of heaven when it comes to us? And we will, just as soon, pick up the darkest deception when it comes to us from somebody that agrees with us, when we have not a particle of evidence that the Spirit of God has sent them. Christ said, “I come in the name of my Father, but ye will not receive me.” [John 5:43.] Now that is just the work that has been going on here ever since the meeting at Minneapolis. Because God sends a message in His name that does not agree with your ideas, therefore it can not be a message from God. How dare you run the risk of trying in the least to shut ... [Remainder missing.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 40, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 40, 1890, par. 5

“I am come in my Father’s name and ye received me not. If another shall come in his own name ye shall receive him. How can ye believe which receive honor one from another and seek not the honor which cometh from God only?” [John 5:43, 44.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 135, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 135, 1899, par. 19

Jesus was the Sent of God. “Lo, I come,” He said, “to do thy will, O God.” [Hebrews 10:9.] But when He came, the husbandmen said, “This is the heir, come, let us kill him, and let us seize on the inheritance.” [Matthew 21:38.] “I am come in my Father’s name,” He said to the scribes and Pharisees, “and ye receive me not; if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honor one of another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father; there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” [John 5:43-47.]

Lift Him Up

The Root and Fruit, October 19

LHU 306.1

Had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. John 5:46.

From the Heart

Jesus, the Fulfillment of Prophecy, June 11

FH 174.1

For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. John 5:46.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Originator, June 17

JNN 180.5

There are those who profess to believe and to teach the truths of the Old Testament, while they reject the New. But in refusing to receive the teachings of Christ, they show that they do not believe that which patriarchs and prophets have spoken. “Had ye believed Moses,” Christ said, “ye would have believed Me; for he wrote of Me” (John 5:46). Hence there is no real power in their teaching of even the Old Testament.—Christ’s Object Lessons, 127, 128.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 30—The Law and the Gospel

1SM 230.4

Men lived nearly a thousand years in those days, and angels visited them with instruction directly from Christ. The worship of God through sacrificial offerings was established, and those who feared God acknowledged their sins before Him, and looked forward with gratitude and holy trust to the coming of the Day Star, which should guide the fallen sons of Adam to heaven, through repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Thus the gospel was preached in every sacrifice; and the works of the believers continually revealed their faith in a coming Saviour. Jesus said to the Jews: “For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” (John 5:46, 47).