EGW WritingsJohn 8

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Meditation and Prayer

GW92 106.4

The Majesty of heaven, while engaged in his earthly ministry, prayed much to his Father. He was frequently bowed all night in prayer. His spirit was often sorrowful as he felt the powers of the darkness of this world, and he left the busy city and the noisy throng, to seek a retired place to make his intercessions. The Mount of Olives was the favorite resort of the Son of God for his devotions. Frequently after the multitude had left him for the retirement of the night, he rested not, though weary with the labors of the day. In the Gospel of John we read, “And every man went unto his own house. Jesus went unto the Mount of Olives.” [John 7:53; 8:1.] While the city was hushed in silence, and the disciples had returned to their homes to obtain refreshment in sleep, Jesus slept not. His divine pleadings were ascending to his Father from the Mount of Olives that his disciples might be kept from the evil influences which they would daily encounter in the world, and that his own soul might be strengthened and braced for the duties and trials of the coming day. All night, while his followers were sleeping, was their divine Teacher praying. The dew and frost of night fell upon his head bowed in prayer. His example is left for his followers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 20, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 20, 1868, par. 6

He often left the busy city and the noisy throng to seek a retired place for prayer. The Mount of Olives was the favorite resort of the Son of God for His devotions. Frequently, after the multitude had left Him for the retirement of the night, He rested not, although He was weary with the labors of the day. In John we read, “And every man went unto his own house.” “Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.” John 7:53; 8:1.

The Ministry of Healing

“Go, and Sin No More”

MH 86.1

The Feast of Tabernacles had just ended. The priests and rabbis at Jerusalem had been defeated in their plottings against Jesus, and, as evening fell, “every man went unto his own house. Jesus went unto the Mount of Olives.” John 7:53; 8:1.

MH 87.1

He was soon interrupted. A group of Pharisees and scribes approached Him, dragging with them a terror-stricken woman, whom with hard, eager voices they accused of having violated the seventh commandment. Pushing her into the presence of Jesus, they said, with a hypocritical display of respect, “Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest Thou?” Verses 4, 5.

MH 88.4

Rising, and fixing His eyes upon the plotting elders, Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” Verse 7. And, stooping down, He continued writing.

MH 88.6

Jesus arose and, looking upon the woman, said, “Where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” Verses 10, 11.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 50—Among Snares

DA 455.1

All the while Jesus was at Jerusalem during the feast He was shadowed by spies. Day after day new schemes to silence Him were tried. The priests and rulers were watching to entrap Him. They were planning to stop Him by violence. But this was not all. They wanted to humble this Galilean rabbi before the people.

DA 455.2

On the first day of His presence at the feast, the rulers had come to Him, demanding by what authority He taught. They wished to divert attention from Him to the question of His right to teach, and thus to their own importance and authority.

DA 455.3

“My teaching is not Mine,” said Jesus, “but His that sent Me. If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.” John 7:16, 17, R. V. The question of these cavilers Jesus met, not by answering the cavil, but by opening up truth vital to the salvation of the soul. The perception and appreciation of truth, He said, depends less upon the mind than upon the heart. Truth must be received into the soul; it claims the homage of the will. If truth could be submitted to the reason alone, pride would be no hindrance in the way of its reception. But it is to be received through the work of grace in the heart; and its reception depends upon the renunciation of every sin that the Spirit of God reveals. Man’s advantages for obtaining a knowledge of the truth, however great these may be, will prove of no benefit to him unless the heart is open to receive the truth, and there is a conscientious surrender of every habit and practice that is opposed to its principles. To those who thus yield themselves to God, having an honest desire to know and to do His will, the truth is revealed as the power of God for their salvation. These will be able to distinguish between him who speaks for God, and him who speaks merely from himself. The Pharisees had not put their will on the side of God’s will. They were not seeking to know the truth, but to find some excuse for evading it; Christ showed that this was why they did not understand His teaching.

DA 456.1

He now gave a test by which the true teacher might be distinguished from the deceiver: “He that speaketh from himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh the glory of Him that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.” John 7:18, R. V. He that seeketh his own glory is speaking only from himself. The spirit of self-seeking betrays its origin. But Christ was seeking the glory of God. He spoke the words of God. This was the evidence of His authority as a teacher of the truth.

DA 456.2

Jesus gave the rabbis an evidence of His divinity by showing that He read their hearts. Ever since the healing at Bethesda they had been plotting His death. Thus they were themselves breaking the law which they professed to be defending. “Did not Moses give you the law,” He said, “and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?”

DA 456.3

Like a swift flash of light these words revealed to the rabbis the pit of ruin into which they were about to plunge. For an instant they were filled with terror. They saw that they were in conflict with Infinite Power. But they would not be warned. In order to maintain their influence with the people, their murderous designs must be concealed. Evading the question of Jesus, they exclaimed, “Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill Thee?” They insinuated that the wonderful works of Jesus were instigated by an evil spirit.

DA 456.4

To this insinuation Christ gave no heed. He went on to show that His work of healing at Bethesda was in harmony with the Sabbath law, and that it was justified by the interpretation which the Jews themselves put upon the law. He said, “Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; ... and ye on the Sabbath day circumcise a man.” According to the law, every child must be circumcised on the eighth day. Should the appointed time fall upon the Sabbath, the rite must then be performed. How much more must it be in harmony with the spirit of the law to make a man “every whit whole on the Sabbath day.” And He warned them to “judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.”

DA 457.1

The rulers were silenced; and many of the people exclaimed, “Is not this He, whom they seek to kill? But, lo, He speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto Him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ?”

DA 457.2

Many among Christ’s hearers who were dwellers at Jerusalem, and who were not ignorant of the plots of the rulers against Him, felt themselves drawn to Him by an irresistible power. The conviction pressed upon them that He was the Son of God. But Satan was ready to suggest doubt; and for this the way was prepared by their own erroneous ideas of the Messiah and His coming. It was generally believed that Christ would be born at Bethlehem, but that after a time He would disappear, and at His second appearance none would know whence He came. There were not a few who held that the Messiah would have no natural relationship to humanity. And because the popular conception of the glory of the Messiah was not met by Jesus of Nazareth, many gave heed to the suggestion, “Howbeit we know this Man whence He is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence He is.”

DA 457.3

While they were thus wavering between doubt and faith, Jesus took up their thoughts and answered them: “Ye both know Me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of Myself, but He that sent Me is true, whom ye know not.” They claimed a knowledge of what the origin of Christ should be, but they were in utter ignorance of it. If they had lived in accordance with the will of God, they would have known His Son when He was manifested to them.

DA 457.4

The hearers could not but understand Christ’s words. Clearly they were a repetition of the claim He had made in the presence of the Sanhedrin many months before, when He declared Himself the Son of God. As the rulers then tried to compass His death, so now they sought to take Him; but they were prevented by an unseen power, which put a limit to their rage, saying to them, Thus far shalt thou go, and no farther.

DA 457.5

Among the people many believed on Him, and they said, “When Christ cometh, will He do more miracles than these which this Man hath done?” The leaders of the Pharisees, who were anxiously watching the course of events, caught the expressions of sympathy among the throng. Hurrying away to the chief priests, they laid their plans to arrest Him. They arranged, however, to take Him when He was alone; for they dared not seize Him in the presence of the people. Again Jesus made it manifest that He read their purpose. “Yet a little while am I with you,” He said, “and then I go unto Him that sent Me. Ye shall seek Me, and shall not find Me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come.” Soon He would find a refuge beyond the reach of their scorn and hate. He would ascend to the Father, to be again the Adored of the angels; and thither His murderers could never come.

DA 458.1

Sneeringly the rabbis said, “Whither will He go, that we shall not find Him? will He go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?” Little did these cavilers dream that in their mocking words they were picturing the mission of the Christ! All day long He had stretched forth His hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people; yet He would be found of them that sought Him not; among a people that had not called upon His name He would be manifest. Romans 10:20, 21.

DA 458.2

Many who were convinced that Jesus was the Son of God were misled by the false reasoning of the priests and rabbis. These teachers had repeated with great effect the prophecies concerning the Messiah, that He would “reign in Mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before His ancients gloriously;” that He would “have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 24:23; Psalm 72:8. Then they made contemptuous comparisons between the glory here pictured and the humble appearance of Jesus. The very words of prophecy were so perverted as to sanction error. Had the people in sincerity studied the word for themselves, they would not have been misled. The sixty-first chapter of Isaiah testifies that Christ was to do the very work He did. Chapter fifty-three sets forth His rejection and sufferings in the world, and chapter fifty-nine describes the character of the priests and rabbis.

DA 458.3

God does not compel men to give up their unbelief. Before them are light and darkness, truth and error. It is for them to decide which they will accept. The human mind is endowed with power to discriminate between right and wrong. God designs that men shall not decide from impulse, but from weight of evidence, carefully comparing scripture with scripture. Had the Jews laid by their prejudice and compared written prophecy with the facts characterizing the life of Jesus, they would have perceived a beautiful harmony between the prophecies and their fulfillment in the life and ministry of the lowly Galilean.

DA 459.1

Many are deceived today in the same way as were the Jews. Religious teachers read the Bible in the light of their own understanding and traditions; and the people do not search the Scriptures for themselves, and judge for themselves as to what is truth; but they yield up their judgment, and commit their souls to their leaders. The preaching and teaching of His word is one of the means that God has ordained for diffusing light; but we must bring every man’s teaching to the test of Scripture. Whoever will prayerfully study the Bible, desiring to know the truth, that he may obey it, will receive divine enlightenment. He will understand the Scriptures. “If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.” John 7:17, R. V.

DA 459.2

On the last day of the feast, the officers sent out by the priests and rulers to arrest Jesus, returned without Him. They were angrily questioned, “Why have ye not brought Him?” With solemn countenance they answered, “Never man spake like this Man.”

DA 459.3

Hardened as were their hearts, they were melted by His words. While He was speaking in the temple court, they had lingered near, to catch something that might be turned against Him. But as they listened, the purpose for which they had been sent was forgotten. They stood as men entranced. Christ revealed Himself to their souls. They saw that which priests and rulers would not see,—humanity flooded with the glory of divinity. They returned, so filled with this thought, so impressed by His words, that to the inquiry, “Why have ye not brought Him?” they could only reply, “Never man spake like this Man.”

DA 459.4

The priests and rulers, on first coming into the presence of Christ, had felt the same conviction. Their hearts were deeply moved, and the thought was forced upon them, “Never man spake like this Man.” But they had stifled the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Now, enraged that even the instruments of the law should be influenced by the hated Galilean, they cried, “Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on Him? But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

DA 459.5

Those to whom the message of truth is spoken seldom ask, “Is it true?” but, “By whom is it advocated?” Multitudes estimate it by the numbers who accept it; and the question is still asked, “Have any of the learned men or religious leaders believed?” Men are no more favorable to real godliness now than in the days of Christ. They are just as intently seeking earthly good, to the neglect of eternal riches; and it is not an argument against the truth, that large numbers are not ready to accept it, or that it is not received by the world’s great men, or even by the religious leaders.

DA 460.1

Again the priests and rulers proceeded to lay plans for arresting Jesus. It was urged that if He were longer left at liberty, He would draw the people away from the established leaders, and the only safe course was to silence Him without delay. In the full tide of their discussion, they were suddenly checked. Nicodemus questioned, “Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?” Silence fell on the assembly. The words of Nicodemus came home to their consciences. They could not condemn a man unheard. But it was not for this reason alone that the haughty rulers remained silent, gazing at him who had dared to speak in favor of justice. They were startled and chagrined that one of their own number had been so far impressed by the character of Jesus as to speak a word in His defense. Recovering from their astonishment, they addressed Nicodemus with cutting sarcasm, “Art thou also of Galilee? Search and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.”

DA 460.2

Yet the protest resulted in staying the proceedings of the council. The rulers were unable to carry out their purpose and condemn Jesus without a hearing. Defeated for the time, “every man went unto his own house. Jesus went unto the Mount of Olives.”

DA 460.3

From the excitement and confusion of the city, from the eager crowds and the treacherous rabbis, Jesus turned away to the quiet of the olive groves, where He could be alone with God. But in the early morning He returned to the temple, and as the people gathered about Him, He sat down and taught them.

DA 460.4

He was soon interrupted. A group of Pharisees and scribes approached Him, dragging with them a terror-stricken woman, whom with hard, eager voices they accused of having violated the seventh commandment. Having pushed her into the presence of Jesus, they said to Him, with a hypocritical show of respect, “Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest Thou?”

DA 460.5

Their pretended reverence veiled a deep-laid plot for His ruin. They had seized upon this opportunity to secure His condemnation, thinking that whatever decision He might make, they would find occasion to accuse Him. Should He acquit the woman, He might be charged with despising the law of Moses. Should He declare her worthy of death, He could be accused to the Romans as one who was assuming authority that belonged only to them.

DA 461.1

Jesus looked for a moment upon the scene,—the trembling victim in her shame, the hard-faced dignitaries, devoid of even human pity. His spirit of stainless purity shrank from the spectacle. Well He knew for what purpose this case had been brought to Him. He read the heart, and knew the character and life history of everyone in His presence. These would-be guardians of justice had themselves led their victim into sin, that they might lay a snare for Jesus. Giving no sign that He had heard their question, He stooped, and fixing His eyes upon the ground, began to write in the dust.

DA 461.2

Impatient at His delay and apparent indifference, the accusers drew nearer, urging the matter upon His attention. But as their eyes, following those of Jesus, fell upon the pavement at His feet, their countenances changed. There, traced before them, were the guilty secrets of their own lives. The people, looking on, saw the sudden change of expression, and pressed forward to discover what it was that they were regarding with such astonishment and shame.

DA 461.3

With all their professions of reverence for the law, these rabbis, in bringing the charge against the woman, were disregarding its provisions. It was the husband’s duty to take action against her, and the guilty parties were to be punished equally. The action of the accusers was wholly unauthorized. Jesus, however, met them on their own ground. The law specified that in punishment by stoning, the witnesses in the case should be the first to cast a stone. Now rising, and fixing His eyes upon the plotting elders, Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” And stooping down, He continued writing on the ground.

DA 461.4

He had not set aside the law given through Moses, nor infringed upon the authority of Rome. The accusers had been defeated. Now, their robe of pretended holiness torn from them, they stood, guilty and condemned, in the presence of Infinite Purity. They trembled lest the hidden iniquity of their lives should be laid open to the multitude; and one by one, with bowed heads and downcast eyes, they stole away, leaving their victim with the pitying Saviour.

DA 461.5

Jesus arose, and looking at the woman said, “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.”

DA 462.1

The woman had stood before Jesus, cowering with fear. His words, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone,” had come to her as a death sentence. She dared not lift her eyes to the Saviour’s face, but silently awaited her doom. In astonishment she saw her accusers depart speechless and confounded; then those words of hope fell upon her ear, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” Her heart was melted, and she cast herself at the feet of Jesus, sobbing out her grateful love, and with bitter tears confessing her sins.

DA 462.2

This was to her the beginning of a new life, a life of purity and peace, devoted to the service of God. In the uplifting of this fallen soul, Jesus performed a greater miracle than in healing the most grievous physical disease; He cured the spiritual malady which is unto death everlasting. This penitent woman became one of His most steadfast followers. With self-sacrificing love and devotion she repaid His forgiving mercy.

DA 462.3

In His act of pardoning this woman and encouraging her to live a better life, the character of Jesus shines forth in the beauty of perfect righteousness. While He does not palliate sin, nor lessen the sense of guilt, He seeks not to condemn, but to save. The world had for this erring woman only contempt and scorn; but Jesus speaks words of comfort and hope. The Sinless One pities the weakness of the sinner, and reaches to her a helping hand. While the hypocritical Pharisees denounce, Jesus bids her, “Go, and sin no more.”

DA 462.4

It is not Christ’s follower that, with averted eyes, turns from the erring, leaving them unhindered to pursue their downward course. Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness, and to stay his feet therein.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 50—Among Snares

HLv 306.1

All during the feast Jesus was shadowed by spies. Day after day new schemes to silence Him were tried. The priests and rulers were planning to stop Him by violence. On the first day at the feast they demanded by what authority He taught.

HLv 306.2

“My teaching is not Mine,” said Jesus, “but His who sent Me; if any man’s will is to do His will, he shall know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on My own authority.” John 7:16, 17, RSV. The perception and appreciation of truth, He said, depends less upon the mind than on the heart. Truth claims the homage of the will. It is to be received through the work of grace in the heart; and its reception depends on the renunciation of every sin that the Spirit of God reveals. There must be a conscientious surrender of every habit and practice opposed to its principles. Those who thus yield themselves to God will be able to distinguish between him who speaks for God and him who speaks merely from himself. The Pharisees were not seeking to know the truth, but to find some excuse for evading it; this was why they did not understand Christ’s teaching.

HLv 306.3

“He who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but he who seeks the glory of Him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.” RSV. The spirit of self-seeking betrays its origin. But Christ was seeking the glory of God. This was the evidence of His authority as a teacher of the truth.

HLv 306.4

Jesus gave the rabbis an evidence of His divinity by showing that He read their hearts. They had been plotting His death, thus breaking the law which they professed to be defending. “Did not Moses give you the law,” He said, “and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?”

HLv 307.1

Like a swift flash of light these words revealed the pit of ruin into which they were about to plunge. For an instant they saw that they were in conflict with Infinite Power. But they would not be warned. Their murderous designs must be concealed. Evading the question, they exclaimed, “Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill Thee?”

HLv 307.2

To the insinuation that His wonderful works were instigated by an evil spirit, Christ gave no heed. He went on to show that His work of healing at Bethesda was justified by the interpretation which the Jews themselves put upon the Sabbath law. According to the law, every child must be circumcised on the eighth day. Should the appointed time fall on the Sabbath, the rite must then be performed. How much more must it be in harmony with the spirit of the law to make a man “every whit whole on the Sabbath day.” He warned them, “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” The rulers were silenced.

HLv 307.3

Many who were dwellers at Jerusalem felt drawn to Christ by an irresistible power. The conviction pressed upon them that He was the Son of God. But Satan was ready to suggest doubt. It was generally believed that Christ would be born at Bethlehem, but that after a time He would disappear, and at His second appearance none would know whence He came. Not a few held that the Messiah would have no natural relationship to humanity.

HLv 307.4

While many were thus wavering between doubt and faith, Jesus took up their thoughts: “You know Me, and you know where I come from? But I have not come of My own accord; He who sent Me is true, and Him you do not know.” RSV. Christ’s words were a repetition of the claim He had made in the presence of the Sanhedrin many months before, when He declared Himself the Son of God.

HLv 308.1

Among the people many believed on Him and said, “When Christ cometh, will He do more miracles than these which this Man hath done?” The leaders of the Pharisees, watching the course of events, caught the expressions of sympathy among the throng. Hurrying to the chief priests, they laid plans to arrest Him when He was alone, for they dared not seize Him in the presence of the people.

HLv 308.2

Many who were convinced that Jesus was the Son of God were misled by the false reasoning of the priests and rabbis. These teachers had repeated with great effect the prophecies concerning the Messiah, that He would “reign in Mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before His ancients gloriously,” that He would “have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 24:23; Psalm 72:8. Then they made contemptuous comparisons between the glory here pictured and the humble appearance of Jesus. Had the people studied the Word for themselves, they would not have been misled. Isaiah 61 testifies that Christ was to do the very work He did. Chapter 53 sets forth His rejection; and chapter 59 describes the character of the priests and rabbis.

HLv 308.3

God does not compel men to give up their unbelief. He designs that men shall decide not from impulse but from weight of evidence, carefully comparing scripture with scripture. Had the Jews compared written prophecy with the facts, they would have perceived a beautiful harmony between the prophecies and their fulfillment in the life and ministry of the lowly Galilean.

HLv 308.4

Many are deceived today in the same way as were the Jews. Religious teachers read the Bible in the light of their traditions; and the people do not search the Scriptures for themselves, but yield up their judgment, and commit their souls to their leaders. Whoever will prayerfully study the Bible that he may obey it, will receive divine enlightenment. He will understand the Scriptures. “If any man’s will is to do His will, he shall know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on My own authority.” RSV.

HLv 309.1

On the last day of the feast, the officers who had been sent to arrest Jesus returned without Him. They were angrily questioned, “Why have ye not brought Him?” They answered, “Never man spake like this Man.”

HLv 309.2

Hardened as were their hearts, they were melted by His words. While He was speaking, they had lingered near, to catch something that might be turned against Him. But as they listened, Christ revealed Himself to their souls. They saw that which priests and rulers would not see—humanity flooded with the glory of divinity.

HLv 309.3

The priests and rulers, on first coming into the presence of Christ, had felt the same conviction. Their hearts were deeply moved and the thought was forced on them, “Never man spake like this Man.” But they had stifled the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Now, enraged, they cried, “Are ye also deceived? Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on Him? But this people, who knoweth not the law are cursed.”

HLv 309.4

Those to whom the message of truth is spoken seldom ask, “Is it true?” but, “By whom is it advocated?” Multitudes estimate it by the numbers who accept it, and the question is still asked, “Have any of the learned men or religious leaders believed?” It is not an argument against the truth that large numbers are not ready to accept it, or that it is not received by the world’s great men, or even by the religious leaders.

HLv 309.5

Again it was urged that if Jesus were left at liberty, He would draw the people away from the established leaders and the only safe course was to silence Him without delay. In the full tide of their discussion, they were suddenly checked. Nicodemus questioned, “Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?” Silence fell on the assembly. They could not condemn a man unheard. But the haughty rulers were startled and chagrined that one of their own number had been so impressed by Jesus as to speak a word in His defense. “Are you from Galilee too? Search and you will see that no prophet is to rise from Galilee.” RSV.

HLv 310.1

Yet because of the protest, the rulers were defeated for the time, and “every man went unto his own house.”

HLv 310.2

From the confusion of the city, from eager crowds and treacherous rabbis, Jesus turned to the quiet of the olive groves, where He could be alone with God. But in the early morning He returned to the temple, and the people gathered about Him.

HLv 310.3

He was soon interrupted. A group of Pharisees and scribes approached, dragging a terror-stricken woman. With hard, eager voices they accused her of having violated the seventh commandment. Having pushed her into the presence of Jesus, they said, “Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest Thou?”

HLv 310.4

They had seized this opportunity to secure His condemnation, thinking that whatever decision He might make, they would find occasion to accuse Him. Should He acquit the woman, He might be charged with despising the law of Moses. Should He declare her worthy of death, He could be accused to the Romans as assuming authority that belonged only to them.

HLv 310.5

Jesus looked on the scene—the trembling victim in her shame, the hard-faced dignitaries devoid of pity. He read the heart and knew the character and life history of every one. Giving no sign that He had heard their question, He stooped and began to write in the dust.

HLv 311.1

Impatient at His delay and apparent indifference, the accusers drew nearer. But as their eyes fell on the pavement at His feet, their countenances changed. There, traced before them, were the guilty secrets of their own lives. The people saw the sudden change of expression, and pressed forward to discover what it was they were regarding with such astonishment and shame.

HLv 311.2

With all their professions of reverence for the law, these rabbis were disregarding its provisions. It was the husband’s duty to take action against the woman; and the guilty parties were to be punished equally. The action of the accusers was unauthorized. Jesus, however, met them on their own ground. The law specified that the witnesses in the case should be the first to cast a stone. Now rising and fixing His eyes on the plotting elders, Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” And He continued writing on the ground.

HLv 311.3

Now the accusers, defeated, their robe of pretended holiness torn from them, stood guilty and condemned in the presence of Infinite Purity. One by one, with bowed heads and downcast eyes, they stole away, leaving their victim with the pitying Saviour.

HLv 311.4

Jesus arose, and looking at the woman said, “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.”

HLv 311.5

The woman had stood before Jesus, cowering with fear. His words, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone,” had come to her as a death sentence. Silently she awaited her doom. In astonishment she saw her accusers depart speechless and confounded; then those words of hope fell on her ear, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” Her heart was melted, and sobbing out her grateful love, with bitter tears she confessed her sins.

HLv 311.6

This was to her the beginning of a life of purity and peace. In uplifting this fallen soul, Jesus performed a greater miracle than in healing the most grievous physical disease. He cured the spiritual malady which is unto death everlasting. This penitent woman became one of His most steadfast followers.

HLv 312.1

Jesus does not palliate sin nor lessen the sense of guilt, but He seeks to save. The Sinless One pities the weakness of the sinner and reaches a helping hand. It is not Christ’s follower that leaves the erring unhindered to pursue their downward course. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 83, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 83, 1893, par. 7

I wrote seven pages yesterday on the life of Christ. (John 8.) I have not finished it yet. I have determined to drop letter-writing and put all my energies and brain in writing Life of Christ. At times there are letters I must answer. I am going to let Emily copy from my diary, and in that way I can keep up my communications with many of my friends. We so much enjoy receiving a large American mail. It is still a bright spot to look forward to. If you do not receive any long letters from me, you’ll know the reason.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 7 [Nos. 419-525]

MR No. 515—Counsels Regarding Medical Work

7MR 371.3

“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:2).

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Wonderful Teacher, October 24

JNN 313.1

Now early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them.—John 8:2

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 206, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 206, 1906, par. 30

On one occasion those who were guilty of many secret sins brought to Christ a woman who had been taken in sin. They thought that He would pronounce judgment against her, and then they could accuse Him of taking judgment into His own hands. While they were presenting the case, Christ was busy writing on the sand. He said nothing; and when they pressed Him for a decision, He was in no hurry to pronounce judgment. One after another came near to Him to see what He was writing, and there in the sand they saw the record of their own sins. Then Christ said to them, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” But not a stone was cast, and they went away, leaving the woman with Him. He said to her, “Where are those thine accusers? Doth no man condemn you?” She said, “No man, Lord.” Christ answered, “Neither do I condemn thee; go, and sin no more.” [John 8:3-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 113, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 113, 1902, par. 32

On one occasion the Pharisees and scribes brought to Christ a woman whom they accused of having violated the seventh commandment. “Moses in the law commanded that such should be stoned,” they said; “but what saith thou?” [John 8:5.] Jesus read their thoughts. He knew for what purpose this case had been brought to Him. He knew that these would-be guardians of justice had themselves led their victim into sin, that they might lay a snare for Jesus. Giving no sign that He had heard their question, He stooped, and fixing His eyes upon the ground began to write in the dust. Impatient at His delay, the accusers drew nearer, urging the matter upon His attention. But as their eyes, following His, fell upon the pavement at His feet, their countenances changed. There traced before them were the guilty secrets of their own lives.

17LtMs, Ms 113, 1902, par. 33

The law specified that in punishment by stoning, the witnesses in the case should be the first to cast a stone. Rising, and fixing His eyes upon the plotting elders, Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her,” and stooping down, He continued writing on the ground. [Verses 7, 8.]

17LtMs, Ms 113, 1902, par. 34

The accusers had been defeated. With their robe of pretended holiness torn from them, they stood, guilty and condemned, in the presence of infinite purity. They trembled lest the hidden iniquity of their lives should be laid open to the multitude; and one by one, with bowed heads and downcast eyes they went away, leaving their victim with the pitying Saviour. Jesus arouse, and looking at the woman, said, “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus saith unto her, Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.” [Verses 10, 11.]

17LtMs, Ms 113, 1902, par. 35

Were Christ on earth today, would He not hear many words of condemnation and harsh judgment? Would he not see men professing to be His followers crowding those who have erred into hard places, giving them no opportunity to recover themselves? Were He to say to them, as He said to the accusing Pharisees, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone” [Verse 7], would they not, even as did the Pharisees, go away one by one, filled with shame?

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Consideration for Those Struggling with Difficulties

GW 492.3

Let care and wisdom be shown in dealing with workers who, though they have made mistakes, have manifested an earnest, self-sacrificing interest in the work. Let their brethren say, “We will not make matters worse by putting another in your place, without giving you opportunity to retrieve your mistake, and to stand on vantage-ground, free from the burden of unjust criticism.” Let them be given time to adjust themselves, to overcome the difficulties surrounding them, and to stand before angels and men as worthy workers. They have made mistakes, but would those who have questioned and criticized have done better? To the accusing Pharisees Christ said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 29, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 29, 1889, par. 19

When, my brethren, you would accuse one of the brethren, consider the words of Jesus, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.] Your sin may not be the particular sin that is under consideration, but Jesus’ words meant that when you are free from sin, you may cast the first stone. When Jesus spoke these words to the accusers, their guilty consciences were aroused. They could not answer Him. They were convicted each in his own conscience, and they went out one by one, beginning at the eldest even to the youngest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 24, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 24, 1892, par. 19

Brethren, when you humble your hearts before God, you will see that there is danger of phariseeism in every church, danger of thinking and praying as did the self-righteous Pharisee, “I thank God that I am not as other men are.” [Luke 18:11.] Oh, that there may be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart, that the seeds of truth may take deep root and spring up and bear much fruit to the glory of God! My brethren, when you would accuse one of the brethren, consider the words of Jesus, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.] Your sin may not be the particular sin that is under consideration, but Jesus’ words mean that when you are free from sin you may cast the first stone.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 18, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 18, 1894, par. 7

Many who bear with fortitude the great calamities of life, are overcome in little matters. By giving unrestrained license to the natural disposition, some trivial thing, some supposed slight, which, if carried to Jesus, the grace of Christ would ennable the soul to overcome, is magnified into mountains of difficulty. As a man thinketh, so is he. Therefore molehills are magnified to large mountains; a supposed slight or discourtesy is allowed to cause heart burnings. Failing to conquer a dishonorable habit, the poor, sensitive, proud soul stumbles over a pebble of offense. A little thing, which should be forgotten, is construed into a grievous inconsistency in a brother or a sister. If Christ were visibly among us, He would address the one who is speaking evil, the accuser of the brother, as of old He spoke to the Pharisees, “He that is without sin among [you], let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 70, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 70, 1894, par. 23

Christ says, “I sanctify myself, that as head and representative of the human family, the soul may believe on me, and may be sanctified.” [John 17:19.] A religion that does not touch the heart cannot transform the character, and sanctify the life. Religious vigilance can never be laid to rest. We must stand as faithful sentinels over the mind and soul, lest Satan steal away the heavenly gifts. Dare not to cast the first stone at your neighbor, lest Christ shall say to you, as you parade the sins of others, presenting them in an aggravated light, “Let him that is without sin cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 38, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 19

God wants His people in Iowa to come into order. He wants to do great things for them, and this He will do if they will take a correct position. He wants them to look at their own defects instead of at the defects of some one else. Remember the words of the Saviour when the Pharisees brought to Him a woman taken in adultery. “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone,” He said. [John 8:7.] Then, bending down, He wrote on the ground. As the accusers of the woman pressed forward to see what He wrote, they read the record of their own sins, and one after another, ashamed and confounded, they went away. Remember the sin in your own heart. Then you will not be so ready to throw stones at some one else.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 208, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 20

In the visions of the night I was in a meeting of the brethren in the Southern field. J. E. White was sitting far back in the room. In that company there was One of heaven’s appointment, who placed His hand on Edson’s shoulder, and led him to the front ranks, saying, “This is your place. In influence, you are to stand with your brethren. You are to have a voice in their council meetings. You are deserving of all the approval that is given to one who has carried heavy burdens in the heat of the day.” Addressing the company, the Messenger continued: “In his effort to advance the work in the South, he has made many sacrifices, and has nearly lost his life. Now he is deserving of the full confidence of all in this assembly—not that he has made no mistakes, but those who judge and condemn would, under similar circumstances, have done no better. ‘He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.’” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 194, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 194, 1902, par. 9

We do not say that in the work at Nashville every thing has been done in the wisest way, but every stroke that the workers have made has been to them a lesson of instruction. They have labored with intensity and untiring zeal. Those who have done nothing to help, but everything to hinder, might better have been helping the workers, encouraging them with their prayers. All that the Lord has permitted to come upon these workers in trial and grievance was sent to correct their mistakes and to keep them from making further mistakes. These workers were untried. Who among those who have lifted their voices in questioning and recrimination and accusation would have worked any more wisely, or with more self-denial and self-sacrifice? “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 192, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 192, 1902, par. 12

Now, my brother, put your trust wholly in the Lord. Human judgment would set the erring one aside; but Christ, were He present, would say to these men who pass such judgment, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 898—Love, the Need of the Church

11MR 267.1

Brethren, when you humble your hearts before God, you will see that there is danger of pharisaism in every church, danger of thinking and praying as did the self-righteous Pharisee: “I thank God that I am not as other men are.” Oh, that there may be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart, that the seeds of truth may take deep root and spring up and bear much fruit to the glory of God! My brethren, when you would accuse one of the brethren, consider the words of Jesus, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone” (John 8:7). Your sin may not be the particular sin that is under consideration, but Jesus’ words mean that when you are free from sin you may cast the first stone. When Jesus spoke these words to the accusers, their guilty consciences were aroused. They could not answer Him; they were convicted each in his own conscience, and they went out one by one, beginning at the oldest even to the youngest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 98, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 98, 1902, par. 6

Let care and wisdom be shown in dealing with workers who, though they have made mistakes, have manifested an earnest, self-sacrificing interest in the work. Let their brethren say, We will not make matters worse by putting another in your place without giving you opportunity to retrieve your mistake and to stand on vantage ground, free from the burden of unjust criticism. Let them be given time to adjust themselves, to overcome the difficulties surrounding them, and to stand before angels and men as worthy workers. Some have made mistakes, but would those who have questioned and criticized done any better? To the accusing Pharisees, Christ said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 120, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 120, 1902, par. 11

Soon after our arrival in America, we attended a local camp-meeting at Napa. Several of the Conference laborers were present; but where was Brother Corliss, a man who has an understanding of the Scriptures, a man who should be respected? God has respect for Brother Corliss. He does not desire any of us to take the position that because our brother may sometimes fail, he is unworthy of our respect and confidence. Although Brother Corliss has faults and makes mistakes, yet he is no more defective than those who thought he was hardly worthy to attend the Napa camp-meeting as a public speaker. They needed to repent just as much as he did. It could well have been said to them, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 356, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 356, 1906, par. 6

Several times recently I have gone to Oakland to spend the Sabbath, but have not been able to attend Brother Simpson’s meetings, as they are held in the evening. Each Sabbath that I have been in Oakland, I have spoken in the Congregational church, which is used by our people for Sabbath services. The Lord has given me a decided testimony to bear to the churches in Oakland and San Francisco. Each one is to give diligent heed to his own soul’s salvation. Instead of investigating and sitting in judgment on the experience of others, each one should closely examine his own individual experience. To those who are looking for spot and stain in the experience of others, I am bidden to say, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 188, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 188, 1906, par. 19

I would further say, Move wisely, and encourage Brother Faulkhead to take a position in the Echo office. He has made a mistake, and he will feel the humility of this mistake. But let not one soul bar his way; for it could well be said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” [John 8:7.] Christ looks beneath the surface. If you were all to come together and confess your mistakes, it would be revealed that some have had feelings of exaltation and have desired the highest place; others have felt free to express a lack of harmony with the plans of their associates and have felt like drawing apart. When all the workers in the Echo office are partakers of the divine nature, they will draw together, in even lines. Then there will be more praying, with humility of soul. Our brethren there will then seek the Lord, confessing their own sins and realizing their own defects of character. Thus great confusion could be avoided.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 55—Consideration for those Struggling with Difficulties

7T 278.3

Let care and wisdom be shown in dealing with workers who, though they have made mistakes, have manifested an earnest, self-sacrificing interest in the work. Let their brethren say: “We will not make matters worse by putting another in your place, without giving you opportunity to retrieve your mistake, and to stand on vantage ground, free from the burden of unjust criticism.” Let them be given time to adjust themselves, to overcome the difficulties surrounding them, and to stand before angels and men as worthy workers. They have made mistakes, but would those who have questioned and criticized have done better? To the accusing Pharisees Christ said: “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.” John 8:7.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 134—Love, the Need of the Church

1888 1093.1

Brethren, when you humble your hearts before God, you will see that there is danger of Pharisaism in every church, danger of thinking and praying as did the self-righteous Pharisee: “I thank God that I am not as other men are.” Oh, that there may be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart, that the seeds of truth may take deep root and spring up and bear much fruit to the glory of God! My brethren, when you would accuse one of the brethren, consider the words of Jesus, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone” (John 8:7). Your sin may not be the particular sin that is under consideration, but Jesus’ words mean that when you are free from sin you may cast the first stone. When Jesus spoke these words to the accusers, their guilty consciences were aroused. They could not answer Him; they were convicted each in his own conscience, and they went out one by one, beginning at the oldest even to the youngest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 39a, 1878

3LtMs, Lt 39a, 1878, par. 18

Where Brother Bahler may have one human defect, his judges and those who condemned him have tenfold more. Brother Kilgore, why did you not take the part of the oppressed? Why did you not lift your voice as did your Saviour and say, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone”? John 8:7. Brother Kilgore, you have moved blindly and made a fearful mistake, which may result in the loss of more than one soul; but you have not known what you were doing. You were doing it ignorantly. Had one word of sympathy or tender pity been expressed by you to Brother Bahler, it would have been registered to your account in heaven. But you had no more sense of the work you were doing for time and for eternity than had those who condemned Christ. You have judged and condemned Him in the person of His saints. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” Matthew 25:40.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 28, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 21

You have been doing the very work in which Satan is engaged. He is an accuser of the brethren and accuses them before God night and day. You have worked not on the side of Christ, but on the side of the enemy. Will you call to mind the lesson which Christ gave the Pharisees when they brought to Him the woman guilty of adultery? While they vehemently accused her, Christ stooped down and wrote on the ground, and one after another beheld their sins written in the sand, and the accusers were accused; for the life and character of each one was laid open before him as if written in an open book. And when they urged Christ for His decision and condemnation, He said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” [John 8:7.] And one by one they turned from His presence, guilty and condemned of greater sins than the poor woman whom they had thought worthy of death.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 11, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 54

If those who, by being merciless, unforgiving, place themselves on Satan’s side would only listen and hear the reproof of the Saviour, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone” [John 8:7], would any hand be lifted? Would not every mouth be stopped? These words of Jesus to the Pharisees brought their own sins to their remembrance. Self-condemned, they went out one by one.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 48, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 48, 1894, par. 25

Jesus said, “Let him that is without sin among you cast the first stone.” Then He continued to trace the peculiar secret sins of the individual accusers. One after another discerned the fact that Jesus knew the sin that the sinner had thought was hidden so deep that it would not be discovered. Conscious of guilt they left the trembling woman alone with Jesus. Jesus turned and looked upon the woman and inquired, “Hath no man condemned thee?” She answered, “No man, Lord.” Then Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn thee: go and sin no more.” [John 8:7-11.] Let those who name the name of Jesus take heed to the new commandment which Jesus has given to His disciples. He says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Let the teachings of Jesus have the weight that they deserve. Let us not be simply hearers of the word but doers also.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 79, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 79, 1897, par. 7

While among men Christ pronounced sentence upon rabbis, rulers, Pharisees, and Sadducees because of their hypocrisy, their rejection of light. Looking at them searchingly, He said, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone,” but He addressed the woman who was guilty of sin in words of tenderest compassion. [John 8:7, 10, 11.] He knew all about the character of the sin committed; but He traced upon the ground the sins of her accusers who had laid their net for the woman, that thus they might find occasion for condemning Christ. Their curiosity led them near to Christ, to see what He had written in the sand; but they did not care to look more than once, and one by one they hastily left His presence.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 13, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 13, 1905, par. 1

I wish to write you a few lines. I have been instructed that cases regarding which it is difficult to decide will be brought before you. One such case is that of Brother W. O. Palmer. I wish to say that his case has been presented before me, and I was referred to the record of the way in which Christ treated the case of the woman brought to Him by the Pharisees to answer to the charge of adultery. Her case was held up by her accusers in the very worst light, but as they continued to urge the matter, the Saviour answered not a word. Stooping down, He began to write on the ground; and as they pressed nearer to see what He was writing, they saw, traced in clear characters, the guilty secrets of their lives. Rising and fixing his eyes upon them, Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” [John 8:7.] And stooping down, He continued writing on the ground.

20LtMs, Lt 13, 1905, par. 3

Jesus arose and, turning to the weeping woman, said, “Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?” She said, “No man, Lord.” And Jesus said unto her, “Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.” [Verses 10, 11.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1044—Deficiencies and Mistakes of Gospel Workers not to be Publicized

13MR 277.2

Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” [John 8:7]. Then He continued to trace the peculiar secret sins of the individual accusers. One after another discerned the fact that Jesus knew the sin that the sinner had thought was hidden so deep that it would not be discovered. Conscious of guilt, they left the trembling woman alone with Jesus. Jesus turned and looked upon the woman and inquired, “Hath no man condemned thee?” She answered, “No man, Lord. Then Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” [verses 10, 11]. Let those who name the name of Jesus take heed to the new commandment which Jesus has given to His disciples. He says, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another” [John 13:34, 35]. Let the teachings of Jesus have the weight that they deserve. Let us not be simply hearers of the Word, but doers also.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 51—“The Light of Life”

HLv 313.1

“I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

HLv 313.2

It was morning; the sun had just risen above the Mount of Olives, and its rays fell with dazzling brightness on the marble palaces, and lighted up the gold of the temple walls, when Jesus, pointing to it, said, “I am the light of the world.” These words were long afterward reechoed by the apostle John in that sublime passage, “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” “The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world.” John 1:4, 5, 9, RSV. God is light; and in the words, “I am the light of the world,” Christ declared His oneness with God and His relation to the whole human family. It was He who at the beginning had caused the “light to shine out of darkness.” 2 Corinthians 4:6. He is the light of sun, moon, and star. As the sunbeams penetrate to the remotest corners of the earth, so does the light of the Sun of Righteousness shine on every soul.

HLv 313.3

“That was the true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” Men of giant intellect and wonderful research, whose utterances have opened vast fields of knowledge, have been honored as benefactors of their race. But One stands higher than they. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” “No man hath seen God at any time; the only-begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him.” John 1:12, 18. We can trace the line of the world’s great teachers as far back as human records extend; but the Light was before them. As the moon and the stars of the solar system reflect the light of the sun, so, as far as their teaching is true, do the world’s great thinkers reflect the rays of the Sun of Righteousness. The true “higher education” is that imparted by Him “in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3. “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

HLv 314.1

When Jesus said, “I am the light of the world,” the people could not fail to recognize His claim to be the Messiah, the Promised One. To the Pharisees and rulers this claim seemed arrogant. That a man like themselves should make such pretensions they could not tolerate. They demanded, “Who art Thou?” They were bent upon forcing Him to declare Himself the Christ. His wily enemies believed that His appearance and work were so at variance with the expectations of the people that a direct announcement of Himself as the Messiah would cause Him to be rejected as an impostor.

HLv 314.2

But Jesus replied, “Even what I have told you from the beginning.” RSV. He was the embodiment of the truths He taught. “I do nothing on My own authority,” He continued, “but speak thus as the Father taught Me. And He who sent Me is with Me.” He did not attempt to prove His Messianic claim, but showed His unity with God.

HLv 314.3

Among His hearers many were drawn to Him in faith, and to them He said, “If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

HLv 314.4

These words offended the Pharisees. “We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest Thou, ye shall be made free?” Jesus looked on these men, slaves of malice, and sadly answered, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” They were in the worst kind of bondage—ruled by the spirit of evil.

HLv 315.1

Every soul that refuses to give himself to God is under the control of another power. He is in the most abject slavery, his mind under the control of Satan. Christ came to break the shackles of sin-slavery from the soul. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”

HLv 315.2

In the work of redemption there is no compulsion. Man is left free to choose whom he will serve. When the soul surrenders to Christ, there is the highest sense of freedom. The expulsion of sin is the act of the soul itself. When we desire to be set free from sin, and cry out for a power out of and above ourselves, the powers of the soul are imbued with the energy of the Holy Spirit, and they obey the dictates of the will in fulfilling the will of God.

HLv 315.3

The only condition on which the freedom of man is possible is that of becoming one with Christ. Sin can triumph only by destroying the liberty of the soul. Subjection to God is restoration to one’s self—to the true glory and dignity of man. The divine law, to which we are brought into subjection, is “the law of liberty.” James 2:12.

HLv 315.4

The Pharisees had declared themselves the children of Abraham. The true children would not try to kill One who was speaking the truth given Him from God. A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without possessing the same spirit and doing the same works, they were not his children.

HLv 315.5

As descent from Abraham was proved, not by name and lineage, but by likeness of character, so apostolic succession rests not on the transmission of ecclesiastical authority, but on spiritual relationship. A life actuated by the apostles’ spirit, the belief and teaching of the truth they taught—this is the true evidence of apostolic succession.

HLv 315.6

Jesus said, “Ye do the deeds of your father.” In mockery the Jews answered, “We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.” These words, in allusion to the circumstances of His birth, were intended as a thrust against Christ in the presence of those who were beginning to believe on Him. Jesus gave no heed to the base insinuation, but said, “If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God.”

HLv 316.1

“You are of your father the devil,” said Jesus. “Your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him... . If I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me?” RSV. The fact that Jesus spoke the truth with certainty was why He was not received by the Jewish leaders. The truth offended these self-righteous men. The truth exposed the fallacy of error; it condemned their teaching and practice; and it was unwelcome. They did not love truth.

HLv 316.2

“Which of you convicts Me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me?” RSV. Day by day for three years Christ’s enemies had been trying to find some stain in His character. Satan had been seeking to overcome Him but had found nothing in Him by which to gain an advantage. Even the devils were forced to confess, “Thou art the Holy One of God.” Mark 1:24. Jesus lived the law in the sight of heaven, in the sight of unfallen worlds, and in the sight of sinful men. He had spoken, unchallenged, words that from any other lips would have been blasphemy: “I do always those things that please Him.”

HLv 316.3

The Jews did not recognize God’s voice in the message of His Son. They thought themselves passing judgment on Christ; but they were pronouncing sentence on themselves. “He that is of God,” said Jesus, “heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.”

HLv 316.4

Many who delight to quibble, to criticize, seeking for something to question in the Word of God, think that this is evidence of independence of thought and mental acuteness. But hunting for sticks and straws betrays a narrow and earthly nature, a heart that is fast losing its capacity to appreciate God. As a flower turns to the sun, that the bright rays may touch it with tints of beauty, so will the soul turn to the Sun of Righteousness, that heaven’s light may beautify the character with the graces of Christ.

HLv 317.1

Jesus continued: “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day: and he saw it, and was glad.” Abraham offered up the most earnest prayer that before his death he might behold the Messiah. And a supernatural light was given him. He was given a view of the divine sacrifice for sin. Of this sacrifice he had an illustration in his own experience. The command came to Him, “Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, ... and offer him ... for a burnt offering.” Genesis 22:2. Upon the altar he laid the son of promise, then with knife upraised to obey God he heard a voice from heaven saying, “Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me.” Genesis 22:12. This terrible ordeal was imposed on Abraham that he might see the day of Christ and realize the great love of God for the world, so great that He gave His only-begotten Son to raise it from its degradation.

HLv 317.2

By making an entire surrender, Abraham was shown that in giving His only Son to save sinners from eternal ruin, God was making a greater and more wonderful sacrifice than ever man could make.

HLv 317.3

In God’s provision of a sacrifice instead of Isaac, it was declared that no man could make expiation for himself; the pagan system of sacrifice was wholly unacceptable to God. No father was to offer up his son or daughter for a sin offering. The Son of God alone can bear the guilt of the world.

HLv 317.4

Christ’s words concerning Abraham conveyed to His hearers no deep significance. The Pharisees saw in them only fresh ground for caviling. They retorted with a sneer, as if they would prove Jesus to be a madman, “Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast Thou seen Abraham?”

HLv 318.1

With solemn dignity Jesus answered, “Verily, verily I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.”

HLv 318.2

Silence fell on the vast assembly. The name of God, given to Moses to express the idea of the eternal presence, had been claimed by this Galilean Rabbi. He had announced Himself to be the self-existent One, He “whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” Micah 5:2.

HLv 318.3

Again the priests and rabbis cried out against Jesus as a blasphemer. Because He was, and avowed Himself to be, the Son of God, they were bent on destroying Him. Many of the people, siding with the priests and rabbis, took up stones to cast at Him. “But Jesus hid Himself, and went out of the temple.”

HLv 318.4

“As Jesus passed by, He saw a man which was blind from his birth. And His disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him... . When He had thus spoken, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, and said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent). He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.”

HLv 318.5

It was generally believed by the Jews that sin is punished in this life. Satan, the author of sin and its results, had led men to look on disease and death as proceeding from God. One on whom some great affliction had fallen had the burden of being regarded as a great sinner. Thus the way was prepared for the Jews to reject Jesus. He who “hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows” was looked upon by the Jews as “stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted,” and they hid their faces from Him. Isaiah 53:4, 3.

HLv 319.1

The belief of the Jews in regard to the relation of sin and suffering was held by Christ’s disciples. Having anointed the eyes of the blind man, Jesus sent him to wash in the pool of Siloam, and the man’s sight was restored. Thus Jesus answered the question of the disciples in a practical way. The disciples were not to discuss as to who had sinned or had not sinned, but to understand the mercy of God in giving sight to the blind. There was no healing virtue in the clay or in the pool where the blind man was sent to wash; the virtue was in Christ.

HLv 319.2

The Pharisees, astonished at the cure, were more than ever filled with hatred, for the miracle had been performed on the Sabbath day.

HLv 319.3

The neighbors who knew the young man in his blindness looked on him with doubt, for when his eyes were opened, his countenance was changed and brightened, and he appeared like another man. Some said, “This is he”; others, “he is like him.” But he settled the question by saying, “I am he.” He then told them of Jesus, and by what means he had been healed, and they inquired, “Where is He? He said, I know not.”

HLv 319.4

Before a council of the Pharisees the man was asked how he had received his sight. “He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because He keepeth not the Sabbath day.” The Pharisees appeared wonderfully zealous for the observance of the Sabbath, yet were planning murder on that very day. But many were convicted that He who had opened the eyes of the blind was more than a common man. They said, “How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles?”

HLv 319.5

Again the rabbis appealed to the blind man. “What sayest thou of Him, that He hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.” The Pharisees then asserted that he had not been born blind. They called for his parents and asked them, saying, “Is this your son, who ye say was born blind?”

HLv 320.1

There was the man himself, declaring he had been blind and had had his sight restored; but the Pharisees would rather deny the evidence of their own senses than admit that they were in error. So powerful is prejudice, so distorting is Pharisaical righteousness.

HLv 320.2

The Pharisees had one hope left, and that was to intimidate the man’s parents. They asked, “How then doth he now see?” It had been declared that whoever should acknowledge Jesus as the Christ should be “put out of the synagogue,” that is, excluded for thirty days. The sentence was regarded as a great calamity. The great work wrought for their son had brought conviction to the parents, yet they answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: but by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.” Thus they shifted all responsibility to their son.

HLv 320.3

The Pharisees’ questioning and prejudice, their unbelief in the facts of the case, were opening the eyes of the multitude. The question in many minds was, Would God do such mighty works through an impostor, as the Pharisees insisted that Jesus was?

HLv 320.4

The Pharisees could not deny the miracle. Filled with joy and gratitude, the blind man freely related his experience. Again the Pharisees tried to silence him. “Give God the praise; we know that this Man is a sinner.” That is, Do not say again that this Man gave you sight; it is God who has done this.

HLv 320.5

The blind man answered, “Whether He be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”

HLv 321.1

As these hypocrites tried to make him disbelieve, God helped him to show, by the vigor and pointedness of his replies, that he was not to be ensnared. He answered, “I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? Will ye also be His disciples? Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art His disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence He is.”

HLv 321.2

The Lord gave the man grace and utterance so that he became a witness for Christ in words that were a cutting rebuke to his questioners. Here was One performing miracles, and they were confessedly ignorant as to the source of His power. “Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where He comes from, and yet He opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshiper of God and does His will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this Man were not from God, He could do nothing.” RSV.

HLv 321.3

The man’s reasoning was unanswerable. The Pharisees were spellbound before his pointed, determined words. For a few moments there was silence. Then the frowning priests and rabbis gathered about them their robes, as though they feared contamination from contact with him. “Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us?” And they excommunicated him.

HLv 321.4

Jesus heard what had been done, and finding him soon after, said, “Dost thou believe on the Son of God?”

HLv 321.5

For the first time the blind man looked on the face of his Restorer. He had seen his parents troubled and perplexed; he had looked on the frowning faces of the rabbis; now his eyes rested on the loving, peaceful countenance of Jesus. Already, at great cost to himself, he had acknowledged Him as a delegate of divine power; now a higher revelation was granted him.

HLv 321.6

To the Saviour’s question, the blind man replied by asking, “Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on Him?” And Jesus said, “Thou hast both seen Him, and it is He that talketh with thee.” The man cast himself at the Saviour’s feet in worship. Christ had been revealed to his soul, and he received Him as the Sent of God.

HLv 322.1

A group of Pharisees had gathered near, and the sight of them brought to the mind of Jesus the contrast ever manifest in the effect of His words and works. “For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.” The people at the Saviour’s advent were favored with a fuller manifestation of the divine presence than the world had ever enjoyed before. But in this very revelation, judgment was passing upon men. Their character was tested, their destiny determined.

HLv 322.2

Some of His hearers, feeling that Christ’s words applied to them, inquired, “Are we blind also?” Jesus answered, “If ye were blind, ye should have no sin.” If God had made it impossible for you to see the truth, your ignorance would involve no guilt. “But now ye say, We see.” You believe yourselves able to see, and reject the means through which alone you could receive sight. The Pharisees refused to come to Christ, hence were left in blindness. Jesus said, “Your sin remaineth.”

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Sinless One, December 23

JNN 375.1

“Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?”—John 8:10

Counsels on Health

A Word to the Wavering

CH 138.3

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will erelong need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing—“go, and sin no more.” John 8:11. Appetite must not be your god.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 37, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, par. 40

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will ere long need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing, “Go, and sin no more.” [John 8:11.] Appetite must not be your god.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1592—Health Reform to Be Advocated; Great Controversy to Be Promoted Strongly

21MR 432.1

The Lord gave us a prosperous journey. The rain commenced to fall as we reached Chicago, and we did not have much dust, for the rain extended nearly to Denver. We found a neat little encampment and about one hundred people on the ground. We had a good meeting Sabbath. Brother Owen spoke in the forenoon upon the coming of Christ, and I spoke in the afternoon from John 8:11; then we had a social meeting, and many excellent testimonies were borne, and my soul was refreshed. I think it would have been difficult to have spoken to thousands of people, for I was weak, but the Lord helped me to speak His word to the souls present. This is the workers’ meeting. The camp meeting proper begins Monday.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Conditions of Answered Prayer

9T 164.3

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will erelong need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing—“go, and sin no more.” John 8:11. Appetite must not be your god.

Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods

Diet

TSDF 196.1

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will ere long need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing,—“go, and sin no more.” John 8:11. Appetite must not be your god.

Counsels on Diet and Foods

Chapter 1—Reasons for Reform

CD 25.3

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will erelong need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing,—“go, and sin no more.” John 8:11. Appetite must not be your god.—Testimonies for the Church 9:164, 165, 1909

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Conditions of Answered Prayer

3TT 364.3

Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will erelong need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing—“go, and sin no more.” John 8:11. Appetite must not be your god.

Homeward Bound

No Excuse for Sinning, March 6

HB 83.1

Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.—John 8:11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 113, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 113, 1898, par. 10

Christ, the mighty Healer, has said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet, I can eat and drink as I please,” will ere long need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. They will find that selfish gratification of appetite will not ensure health. The Lord gave His word to ancient Israel that if they would cleave strictly to the Lord, and do all His requirements that He would keep from them all disease such as He had brought upon the Egyptians; but this promise was given upon the condition of obedience. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think that you can link yourself up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after his work of healing, “Go, and sin no more.” [John 8:11.] Appetite must not be made your god.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 95, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 95, 1906, par. 77

My Lord and my God, I ask Thee to carry through the reformation that is to be done in this place, and the reformation that is to be done in the different meeting places in this community. Let the salvation of God be revealed. My Saviour, my Saviour, Thou art inviting: Thou art waiting for them to come, so that Thou canst say, “Thy sins be forgiven thee; go, and sin no more.” [Matthew 9:2; John 8:11.] May the healing power of God come upon body and soul. My Father, my Father, I ask Thee for Christ’s sake to come into the midst of us, and break the terrible power of darkness, and let souls go free, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory. Amen.

Christian Education

Chapter 15—The Value of Bible Study

CE 121.1

The work of Christ is to draw men from the false and spurious to the true and genuine. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] There is no danger of going into error while we follow in the footsteps of “the Light of the world.” We are to work the works of Christ. We must engage heart and soul in his service; we must search the word of life, and present it to others. We must educate the people to realize the importance of its teaching, and the danger of deviating from its plain commands.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 6 [Nos. 347-418]

MR No. 350—Must the Christian Be Humorless?

6MR 90.1

He [Jesus] is the joy and light of the world. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness.” John 8:12. Heaven is all light, peace, and joy. Jesus says, “Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 69a, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, par. 19

The Sun of Righteousness will shine upon all who will follow Christ. “They that follow Me shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] We belong to Christ. He has bought us, bought our children. We can educate them to think more highly of earthly pleasures and earthly treasures than of the heavenly. If we give the world all the advantage of obtaining mind, heart, and soul service, every chink is filled, the worldly tide fills every space, and the Word of God is left out. The bright light proceeding from Christ is not admitted. The spirit, the principles, that dwell in the heart of the disobedient dwell in the heart of those who link up in harmony with them.

11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, par. 44

God calls to them, “Follow Me and ye shall not walk in darkness. I am the Light of the world.” [John 8:12.] But they answer back, “Lord, I do not wish to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, for that will not please my neighbors. I do not want to cause any dissension among my neighbors; therefore, I will link up my interest with my neighbors, for it would be very unpleasant to obey Your injunction. I know that Thy Word is pledged: ‘Come out from the world and be ye separate and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.’ [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] But the carnal heart says, This will make it very inconvenient for me. I should displease my neighbors with whom I am acquainted, with whom I have lived for long years. I cannot follow You, Jesus. I must not break up my association with my neighbors. I will walk in the path they walk.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 89a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 89a, 1897, par. 10

When we walk in the freedom of heavenly light, there will be a wide space for all our renewed energies to do service unto God. What sweet relief when tired and weary and heavy laden to hear the melody of the voice of Him who gave His life for us, saying, “Come unto me.” “Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden; and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [John 6:35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 77, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 77, 1897, par. 11

The assurance that was given Christ in his humanity is also given to God’s people, His heritage. “They that follow me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” [Isaiah 58:8-11.] Christ is the reality of all types, the fulfillment of all promises.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 175, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 175, 1897, par. 51

Oh, when will we learn to trust in the Lord Jehovah, not only in jots and tittles, but with a never-failing trust? We are not to doubt our Lord Jesus, whether He is in heaven or on earth, for He ever liveth to make intercession for us. We are to trust Him humbly, trust Him wholly, trust Him unwaveringly. He says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness.” John 8:12. God forbid that any one shall walk in the sparks of his own kindling.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 180, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 180, 1897, par. 4

We miss Willie very much. We need him here. I should not have been left alone to stem the current here. It is hard work. Brother Lacey is in Melbourne to visit several places and try to obtain favor in regard to the school interests. I am left alone, and when I see and understand how few have a live, present experience in the things of God it makes me tremble. How long will the Lord bear with our ignorance? He says, “I am the light of the world. They that follow me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Then if all follow Jesus they would be the light of the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 88, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 88, 1897, par. 4

What a Saviour we have in Jesus! He says, I am the light of the world. [John 8:12.] Yes, He ascended the firmament of truth, He shone amid the moral darkness of the world, and He was conscious that were He to withdraw His beams the world would be immersed in eternal night. As many as would accept His light for their individual selves and would walk in that light would He draw to Himself, away from the moral darkness into the clear light of the Sun of Righteousness. He could stand forth and challenge the attention of the world with the full assurance that He was not only the benefactor, but that in Him were combined all the qualities of perfection that the world would ever find.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 23, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 23, 1897, par. 9

The church of God, enfeebled and defective though it is through yielding to temptation, is the only object upon earth on which He bestows His supreme regard. His interest, with all the interest of the heavenly host, is all with His people, who, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, are to shine as lights in the world. His Holy Spirit is given rich and constant supplies of grace for every emergency. Not one need stumble, for Christ has said, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 32, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 32, 1897, par. 3

God will open many doors of labor and hope to those who will not bring in their own impetuous plans, but patiently and prayerfully wait for Him to guide their decisions. The great General of the armies of heaven and of every battle in His cause, will lead His people in these perilous times if the under leaders, the under shepherds, will do their appointed work. If they will listen to the voice that says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] They will walk in the light as God is in the light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 120, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 120, 1898, par. 2

We must pray more, and walk more humbly and more by faith. Christ was perfect in His humanity, and the more faith we have in Him as our sufficiency, the more humbly we walk with God, the more entire our consecration, the less intrusion of self will there be between God and man. The grace of Christ must be an abiding presence in the soul day by day. Only thus can we endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. Christ came to our world to manifest God to men, to lead men to God. “I am the light of the world,” He declared. [John 8:12.] What was it that consecrated Him the light of the world? It was this: He came down from heaven. He is the true Teacher sent from God. He was the One chosen to reveal God’s character to the world. He is the Bright and Morning Star. He is the Sun of Righteousness, a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of His people Israel. John declared of Him, “That was the true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [John 1:9.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1436—The High Honor of Being a Child of God

20MR 61.4

Christ did not merely give us directions as to the path in which we must travel, but He came to be our teacher. He did not merely tell us how we ought to obey, but in His own life He gave us a practical example of how we should obey. Thus He is the true Helper. Going before us, He beats down the obstructions, and tells us to walk in His footsteps. Our blessed Saviour says, Follow Me; I will lead you; I am the way, the truth, and the life. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness. [See Matthew 4:19; John 14:6; 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 74, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 74, 1898, par. 2

For twenty years I have seen that the light would come to the women workers in the temperance lines. But, with sadness, I have discerned many of them becoming politicians, and that against God. They enter into questions and debates and theories of many things that they have no need to touch. Christ said, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] How can they walk in opposition to His holy law, in the footsteps of the great apostate, and yet have clear, sharp discernment? ...

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 47a, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 47a, 1898, par. 11

That the mercies, favors, and bounties of God are granted to all the world, is a lesson to all classes. God’s blessings—the sunshine and the showers, the heat and the cold, and every natural blessing—are given both to the just and to the unjust. This is a lesson of special force to those who carry the message of truth. Exclusiveness is not to be maintained by any people. Our light is to be set on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are within the house. Light is a blessing, a universal blessing, pouring forth its treasures on a world unthankful, unholy, demoralized. “I am the Light of the world,” Christ said. [John 8:12.] He came to break down every wall of exclusion, to throw open every door in the temple where God presides, that every ear may hear, that every eye may see, and that every thirsty soul may drink of the water of life freely.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 107, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 107, 1898, par. 17

It is the privilege of all to give to the world, in their family government, in their customs and practices and order, an evidence of what the truth can do for those who obey it. You are not to allow yourselves to come down to a low, cheap level in words or works. The truth of God brought into the sanctuary of the soul, is the grand remedy for all physical, mental, and spiritual disorders. What ever the Word says is to be taken home. It is to be partaken of as the bread of heaven, as the flesh and blood of the Son of God. Fallen man must daily derive his vitalizing power from Him who has said, “I am the Light of the world.” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 8:12; 14:6.] Apart from Him, everything is worthless.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 176, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 176, 1898, par. 8

Christ is the light of the world. He says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] “He that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.” [John 12:35.] “The god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not.” [2 Corinthians 4:4.] Those who follow Christ shall not walk in darkness; but all who follow their own ideas, walking contrary to the Word of God, are of the class concerning whom the Lord spoke to the prophet, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” [Amos 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 29, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 29, 1898, par. 24

The Lord will have mercy upon those that seek Him with contrition of soul. “I am the light of the world,” He declares. [John 8:12.] He is a blessing as universal as light. He came to break down every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment in the temple of His creation, that every soul, Jew or Gentile, might have free access to the presence of God. The message He brought from the Father was for the ears of the whole world. Then let every soul yoke up with Christ in an effort to reach the souls of every caste, of every nation. There are no boundaries to God’s grace.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 120, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 120, 1898, par. 8

You need not be surprised if everything in the journey heavenward is not pleasant. There is no use in looking to our own defects. Looking unto Jesus, the darkness passes away, and the true light shineth. Go forth daily, expressing the prayer of David, “Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.” [Psalm 17:5.] All the paths of life are beset with peril, but we are safe if we follow where the Master leads the way, trusting the One whose voice we hear saying, “Follow me.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Let your heart repose in His love. We need sanctification, soul, body, and spirit. This we must seek for.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 111, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 111, 1898, par. 14

Christ said, “I am the Light of the world, he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] He who follows me who treads in my footsteps, is my disciple, my servant.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 168, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 168, 1898, par. 9

God’s blessings, sunshine and showers, heat and cold, and every natural blessing, are given to the world. Exclusiveness is not to be maintained by any people. “I am the light of the world,” Christ said. [John 8:12.] Light is a blessing, a universal blessing, which pours forth its treasures on a world unthankful, unholy, demoralized. The Lord Jesus came to demolish every wall of exclusion, to throw open every wall in the temple where God presides, that every ear may hear, that every eye may see, that every thirsty souls may drink of the water of life freely.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 118, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 118, 1898, par. 6

For twenty years I have seen that the light would come to the women workers in the temperance lines. But with sadness I have discerned that many of them are becoming politicians, and that against God. They enter into questions and debates the theories of many things that they have no need to touch. Christ said, I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. [John 8:12.] How can they walk in opposition to His holy law, in the footsteps of the great apostate, and yet have clear, sharp discernment?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 120a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 120a, 1898, par. 7

You need not be surprised if you have not every thing pleasant in your journey heavenward. There is no use in looking to our own defects, but looking unto Jesus, the darkness passes away, and the true light shineth. Go forth daily, trusting, expressing the prayer of David, “Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not.” [Psalm 17:5.] All the paths of life are beset with peril, but we are completely safe if we go where the Master leads the way, and trust in Him whose voice we hear saying, “Follow me.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Let your heart repose in His love; we need sanctification of body and spirit. This we must seek for.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

MR No. 122—Christ To Be Supreme; Counsel on Camp Meetings

2MR 169.2

The American mail goes tomorrow, and I have much to write. Have written 17 pages since 3:00 a.m., prepared for the mail which leaves Cooranbong at 9:00 a.m. As soon as I take my pen in my hand I am not in darkness as to what to write. It is as plain and clear as a voice speaking to me, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go.” “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct (make plain) thy paths.” We are to trust the Lord with all our heart. We have proved the Lord. We have the sure word on which we shall rely. Christ assures us, “I am the light of the world: He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” [John 8:12]. “When thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light.” Praise the Lord, I have verified His promise. Since I was a youth 11 years old, I have believed the promise. I will cast my helpless soul upon the One who has bought me with the price of His own blood.—Manuscript 89, 1900, 1, 2. (Diary, January 1900.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 109a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 109a, 1898, par. 14

God’s blessings, sunshine and showers, heat and cold, and every natural blessing, are given to the world. Exclusiveness is not to be maintained by any people. “I am the light of the world,” Christ said. [John 8:12.] Light is a blessing, a universal blessing, which pours forth its treasures on a world unthankful, unholy, demoralized. The Lord Jesus came to demolish every wall of exclusion, to throw open every wall in the temple where God presides, that every ear may hear, that every eye may see, that every thirsty soul may drink of the water of life freely.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 33, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 33, 1898, par. 26

“I am the light of the world,” Christ declares, a blessing to all classes, even as the light of heaven is given to benefit all the human race. [John 8:12.] The more men through false ministry have been made apostates to the law of Jehovah, the more urgent is the call for the help of every human agent to connect with the world’s Redeemer in seeking to save that which is lost. He came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment in the temple, our world, that every soul may have free access to God, that every soul may see that God is looking upon him individually, and through His agencies, saying, Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 164, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 164, 1898, par. 3

Christ has declared our position. “He that abideth in me,” He says, “shall not walk in darkness; but shall have the light of life.” [John 15:5; 8:12.] He is Himself the Bright and morning star. He is the Sun of Righteousness, the brightness of His Father’s glory. He is the “true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [John 1:9.] A Physician, a Healer, He came to restore the moral image of God that was lost by transgression.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 117, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 117, 1898, par. 1

“Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 13, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 13, 1899, par. 16

The voice saying to us, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness” [John 8:12], said the same words to Enoch, assuring him that if he followed the Saviour, he would not walk in the darkness of ignorance.

14LtMs, Ms 13, 1899, par. 18

It is our privilege to walk as did Enoch. Christ has assured us that those who walk in His steps are His disciples, His true representatives. He says, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Is not this sufficient assurance? Should not these words fill us with holy peace and joy?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 12, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 12, 1899, par. 13

All our ministering brethren are convinced that there is not a better location for our school. We are not a great distance from Queensland, and from the light given me of the Lord, I know that all the places on the way to Brisbane—Newcastle, Maitland, Singleton, Toowoomba, are to be like links in a chain reaching to Cooranbong. And from Cooranbong there are places to be worked all along the line to Sydney. O, it is a great field, just as dark as heathen lands, unless the light of truth shall pass through it as a lamp that burneth. The Lord has looked upon the darkness. “And God said, Let there be light, and there was light.” [Genesis 1:3.] “I am,” said Christ, “the light of the world.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 46, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 46, 1899, par. 6

Seeking pardon for sin, Saul found the sin-pardoning Saviour, who takes away the guilt of the world. He found the One who said to him, “A new heart also will I give thee.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “Whosoever believeth in me, shall not perish, but shall have the light of life.” [John 14:6; 3:16; 8:12.] In reference to Paul Christ could indeed say, “I was found of him who sought me not.” [See Romans 10:20.] Paul was not searching for the pearl of great price. But it flashed its invaluable loveliness before him, that his attention might be attracted. Christ and his righteousness became to Paul more than the whole world. “I count all things but loss ... that I may win Christ,” he declared. [Philippians 3:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 196, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 196, 1899, par. 14

“I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] Christ has ascended the firmament of truth, as the sun ascends in the heavens, to lighten the world with His glory. He shines with the consciousness that were he to withdraw his beams from the world, there would be eternal darkness. He shines forth today to lighten every man that will walk in His light. If they will walk in the light as He is in the light, they will not stumble.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 9, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 9, 1899, par. 10

What fullness is expressed in the words, “I am the light of the world.” “I am the Bread of Life.” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “I am the Good Shepherd.” “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 8:12; 6:35; 14:16; 10:11, 10.] This life is what we must have, and we must have it more abundantly. God will breathe this life into every soul that dies to self and lives to Christ. But entire self-renunciation is required. Unless this takes place, we carry with us the evil that destroys our happiness. But when self is crucified, Christ lives in us, and the power of the Spirit attends our efforts.

Maranatha

Humble Men Proclaim the Message, January 9

Mar 17.4

It was not the scholarly theologians who had an understanding of this truth, and engaged in its proclamation. Had these been faithful watchmen, diligently and prayerfully searching the Scriptures, they would have known the time of night; the prophecies would have opened to them the events about to take place. But they did not occupy this position, and the message was given by humbler men. Said Jesus: “Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you.” John 12:35. Those who turn away from the light which God has given, or who neglect to seek it when it is within their reach, are left in darkness. But the Saviour declares: “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12. Whoever is with singleness of purpose seeking to do God’s will, earnestly heeding the light already given, will receive greater light; to that soul some star of heavenly radiance will be sent to guide him into all truth.12The Great Controversy, 312.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 43, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 43, 1900, par. 12

I must speak to my brethren in America and in Australia and with my pen reach the people of God all over the world. What are you doing for the Master who hath said to you, “Follow me, and ye shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] Has the Lord not said, “Follow me, and ye shall not walk in darkness”? Has the Lord not said, “Follow me?” Then shall we follow or shall we refuse to obey. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Love of the world, love of dress, unless we are constantly on guard, will largely occupy our thoughts; but these matters do not lie at the root. The burden that rests upon my soul is, Have you given your heart to Jesus Christ, and do you love with your whole heart, your whole soul, your whole mind, and your whole strength? This is required of all who become children of God. Do we give Him who gave His life for us that confidence, that faith that works by love and purifies the soul? Self love and self indulgence will become our master is we do not guard against the temptation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 65, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 65, 1900, par. 29

If we live in Christ’s presence, there will be no contention. There will be no hesitancy about introducing new plans of action as the Holy Spirit may move upon some one to suggest them. Christ’s presence means advance. He imbues men, women, and children with a sense of individual responsibility. We need to feel the sacred, sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit, that we may hear Christ saying to us, “Follow me.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 34, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 8

Christ declares, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] This light is all contained in the great commandment of love. “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 89, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 89, 1900, par. 5

We are to trust the Lord with all our heart. We have proved the Lord. We have the sure Word on which we shall rely. Christ assures us, “I am the light of the world.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “When thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light.” [Luke 11:34.] Praise the Lord, I have verified His promise! Since I was a youth eleven years old I have believed the promise. I will cast my helpless soul upon the One who has bought me with the price of His own blood.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 27, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 27, 1900, par. 3

In the face of every species of error and delusion, Christ stood forth, proclaiming, “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] When His ministry commenced, His followers numbered only a few illiterate fishermen. But though the world ignored these humble men, they were connected with the God of heaven. Christ was their Instructor. Drawing their power from the Source of all power, these men were to bear a testimony that would shake the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 140, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, par. 44

Those who are called upon to be leaders in the cause of God must realize the positive necessity of being led themselves. Christ says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness; but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] The truth for our time must transform the character. It is when the heart is wholly surrendered to God, that we learn both its waywardness and how effectual is the grace of God to bring it into subjection, that the character may be fashioned after the divine similitude. If the truth is planted in the heart by the Spirit of God, it will be revealed in the life, and its beauty will be apparent in the character.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 42, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, par. 2

The instruction given by Christ is clear and easy to be understood. It is the duty of every soul to understand for himself his appointed work. He is not to grope his way along in darkness and uncertainty, depending on human guidance. Christ has said, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Let God’s workmen feel that every hour they are in need of divine guidance. Those who have not been looking to Jesus, inquiring, “Is this the way of the Lord?” should commence at once to do this. We are daily to realize that God has given us a part in His great work, and that He expects us to act intelligently. We are not to try to get up something new and singular, something odd and strange, in order to create a sensation. We are to be perfectly content to give the instruction Christ has given.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 60, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 60, 1901, par. 11

As the sinner is convicted and converted, Jesus says to him, “Follow me, and you shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] To each human being God has assigned an individuality and a distinct work. Abraham was called to go into new territory. He was to be a light-bearer to the heathen. Those who believe in the Lord are not to live to please themselves. The soul of every sinner is precious in the sight of God and demands the care of those whose names are on the church books.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 183, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 183, 1902, par. 18

God is our Leader, and if we look to Him, He will guide us to success. Let us not follow our own wisdom; for it is foolishness. The wisdom of God alone is unerring. Christ declares, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “Thine ear shall hear a voice behind thee, saying, This is the way; walk ye in it; when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” [Isaiah 30:21.] “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go; I will guide thee with mine eye.” “The meek will He guide in judgment, and the meek will He teach His way.” “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant.” [Psalm 32:8; 25:9, 14.]

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 71—Happiness

2MCP 643.4

A Never-Failing Friend—This is Jesus, the life of every grace, the life of every promise, the life of every ordinance, the life of every blessing. Jesus is the substance, the glory and fragrance, the very life itself. “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Then the royal path cast up for the ransomed to walk in is not discouraging darkness. Our pilgrimage would indeed be lonely and painful were it not for Jesus. “I will not,” He says, “leave you comfortless” (John 14:18). Then let us gather every registered promise. Let us repeat them by day and meditate upon them in the night season, and be happy.—Letter 7, 1892. (Selected Messages 2:244.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 145a, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 145a, 1902, par. 6

“In Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.” [Galatians 5:6.] Let us walk humbly with God, seeking Him diligently and serving Him earnestly, lest we be found unprofitable servants. Our Lord loves to have us trust Him implicitly, recognizing the sacredness of His work and His power to carry it forward. We need not be in darkness and doubt. Christ is constantly inviting us, “Look unto me. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [Isaiah 45:22; John 8:12.] No man can look to Christ without being strengthened and uplifted. By beholding Him, he is changed into the same image and cherishes the same spirit. All sullenness and gloom are gone. His experience is as clear as the sunlight. The consciousness that Jesus loves him fills him with joy and gladness, and he reflects the divine image. His constant question is, “What shall I render unto thee for thine infinite love and mercy to me? I am thy servant; for thou hast loosed my bonds.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 42, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 42, 1902, par. 6

I am instructed to say that we must not look to any human being for power or experience, for strength or guidance. Christ says, “Look unto Me. I am the Light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [Isaiah 45:22; John 8:12.] I speak to those who claim to be children of God. Is it not time that we knew the source of our strength and the source of our power? Shall we not, from the beginning of this year, make a record more pleasing to the Lord? Scenes are presented to me that I can find no language to describe. Trials will come that will humble hearts. Let no one feel that he is safe in following his own way, or in making man his trust. The Lord calls for men of experience, men who will carry responsibilities in His name and in His strength, men who will receive His grace to impart it to others.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 229, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 44

“I am the light of life,” Jesus Christ says. [John 8:12.] When Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us,” “Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works’ sake.” [John 14:8-11.] The Saviour was the express image of His Father’s person.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 78, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 78, 1902, par. 5

I am instructed to say that we must not look to any human being for power or experience, depending on them for strength and guidance. Christ says, “Look unto Me. I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [Isaiah 45:22; John 8:12.] I speak to those who claim to be children of God. Is it not time that we know the source of our strength and the source of our power? Shall we not, from this time forward, make a record more pleasing to the Lord? Scenes are presented to me that I can find no language to describe. Trials will come that will humble all hearts that are lifted up. Let no one feel that he is safe in following his own way, or in making man his trust. The Lord calls for men of experience, men who will carry responsibilities in His name and in His strength, men who will receive His grace with a realization of their accountability to impart to others.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 81, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 81, 1902, par. 14

My son, the path has been plainly pointed out to you. Are you willing to walk in the light? Hear Christ’s voice, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Get rid of every pressing care. Do not again involve yourself in debt. This is Satan’s snare for the ruin of your soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 42, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 42, 1902, par. 1

Strengthen your souls in the Lord. I plead with God to reveal His wonder-working power to you. I am sure that He will be with you, leading and guiding you step by step. We are certainly living in perilous times, and we need to keep our minds stayed upon God every moment. He who knows the power that the enemy has over those who do not trust fully in the Lord Jesus, says, “Come unto Me. I am thy refuge, thy hiding place. I will preserve thee from trouble. I will compass thee about with songs of deliverance.” [Matthew 11:28; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 32:7.] He knows the depths of darkness into which Satan would cast the soul. He is the exceeding brightness of the Father’s glory, and He invites us to follow Him, saying, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 145, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 145, 1902, par. 10

“In Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.” [Galatians 5:6.] Let us walk humbly with God, seeking Him diligently and serving Him earnestly, lest we be found unprofitable servants. Our Lord loves to have us trust Him implicitly, recognizing the sacredness of His work and His power to carry it forward. We need not be in darkness and doubt. Christ is constantly inviting us, “Look unto me.” [Isaiah 45:22.] “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] No man can look to Christ without being strengthened and uplifted. By beholding Him, he is changed into the same image and cherishes the same spirit. All sullenness and gloom are gone. His experience is as clear as the sunlight. The consciousness that Jesus loves him fills him with joy and gladness, and he reflects the divine image. His constant question is, “What shall I render unto thee for thine infinite love and mercy to me? I am thy servant; for thou hast loosed my bonds.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 157, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 157, 1902, par. 29

“In Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.” [Galatians 5:6.] Let us walk humbly with God, seeking Him diligently and serving Him earnestly, lest we be found unprofitable servants. Our Lord loves to have us trust Him implicitly, recognizing the sacredness of His work and His power to carry it forward. We need not be in darkness and doubt. Christ is constantly inviting us, “Look unto me. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [Isaiah 45:22; John 8:12.] No man can look to Christ without being strengthened and uplifted. By beholding Him, he is changed into the same image and cherishes the same spirit. All sullenness and gloom are gone. His experience is as clear as the sunlight. The consciousness that Jesus loves him fills him with joy and gladness, and he reflects the divine image. His constant question is, “What shall I render unto thee for thine infinite love and mercy to me? I am thy servant; for thou hast loosed my bonds.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 114, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 114, 1902, par. 12

I hope and pray that the Lord will bless you abundantly in your work in Sydney. I hope that you will have good health. Be assured that we pray for you and for those connected with you, that you may have wisdom to walk wisely in a perfect way. If ever there was a time when we needed to watch unto prayer, it is now. Sin has cast a dark shadow over the earth. In our work, we constantly meet with difficulties. But we can hope in God; for we have the assurance that He is light. He is the fulness of light. Through the clouds that darken our way there shine the precious promises that are the pledge of divine guidance, “I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not.” “I will make darkness light before thee, and crooked things straight.” [Isaiah 42:16.] “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] The Lord asks us to walk with Him, to cleave constantly to Him. If we follow Him in faithfulness, He will be our wisdom. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Let our faith grow stronger as we think of the tender watchcare of the Lord and His lovingkindness toward us. Our faith must pierce the cloud and reach to the light beyond. However dark the cloud, we should always see light on the other side. Our love increases as our faith becomes more certain; for we touch the Source of an abiding strength and confidence.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 41, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 41, 1902, par. 5

We are certainly living in perilous times, and we need to keep our minds stayed upon God every moment. He who knows the power that the enemy has over those who do not trust fully in the Lord Jesus, says, “Come unto Me. I am thy refuge, thy hiding place. I will preserve thee from trouble. I will compass thee about with songs of deliverance.” He knows the depths of darkness into which Satan would cast the soul. He is the exceeding brightness of the Father’s glory, and He invites all to follow Him, saying, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] He shows us the prodigal, a little while before sitting with the swine, now clothed in the Father’s best robe.

Our Father Cares

When Truth Controls the Life, September 29

OFC 284.1

He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12.

OFC 284.4

Christ has declared our position. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). He is Himself the bright and morning Star. He is the Sun of Righteousness, the brightness of His Father’s glory. He is the “true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (chap. 1:9). A Physician, a Healer, He came to restore the moral image of God that was lost by transgression.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 80, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 80, 1903, par. 5

Very often I think of the rich promises given us in the Word in regard to God’s keeping power. We are kept by His power. How reasonable then it is that we should be careful to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. He says, “I am the Light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Of those who walk in this light He declares, “Ye are the light of the world. ... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 101, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 101, 1903, par. 4

We need often to pray, Lord, increase my faith, that I may be strong to quench the fiery darts of the enemy. Make me more than a conqueror through Him that loved me and gave Himself for me. The Holy Spirit, earnestly sought and constantly cherished, works in the hearts of those who believe, giving them power to become the sons of God. To follow Christ means everything to us. The path of the Christian is as a shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. He who follows Christ is assured that he will have “the light of life.” [John 8:12.] This light means an insight into sacred things. It means an acquaintance with God Himself—a personal, vital acquaintance.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 83, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 83, 1903, par. 7

Christ said, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. [John 8:12.] Those who walk in the light of My example, becoming My servants, My imitators, through faith and trust in Me will become sons of God.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 258, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 258, 1903, par. 13

We are living in the midst of the peril of the last days, and the Lord calls upon us to look to Him for guidance. We need not take one step in the dark. “He that followeth Me,” Christ says, “shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 147, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 147, 1903, par. 1

Christ gives to all the invitation, “Follow Me.” “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 110, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 110, 1903, par. 7

Christ is the light of the world. “He that followeth Me,” He says, “shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Those who allow Christ to anoint their eyes with His eyesalve will clearly discern spiritual truths. No longer will they see as through a mist, walking uncertainly in the sparks of their own kindling. They will have a divine knowledge of Christ formed within, the hope of glory—their wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 262, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 262, 1903, par. 20

Christ says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 14:6; 8:12.] He who accepts Christ enters upon a pathway illuminated by the splendor of the Son of the true and living God. The truth that he believes sheds light on every step of the way. God’s chosen ones will advance from strength to strength, from grace to grace.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 232, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 232, 1903, par. 36

Christ converted all nature into an index to illustrate His greatness, His goodness, His love. Water, air, light, life—these Christ used to illustrate His work and His character. Pointing to the sun, which had just risen above the Mount of Olives, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] The sun in the heavens represents the Sun of righteousness. As the sunbeams penetrate to the remotest corners of the earth, so does the light of the Sun of righteousness shine upon very soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 121, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 121, 1903, par. 9

We are not to stumble along in uncertainty. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] As we advance, we become used to following. The path of life shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 333, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, par. 6

“I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “We all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” [2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 142, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 142, 1904, par. 8

We must keep in mind constantly the words of Christ, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] We have the Word of both the Old and the New Testament history. Trust in God. Christ is the Truth, the Alpha of the Old Testament history, and all its treasures are made clear and important by the New Testament history.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 277, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, par. 4

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [Verses 6-9.] The Saviour is calling, “Follow Me, and ye shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] God is calling upon you, my brother, to turn away from human devising, to follow His guidance, to refuse to be deceived.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 191, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 191, 1905, par. 8

God’s messengers desire to see you believe. All heaven desires you to believe. Christ gave His life that you should believe in that Light. He says, “I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 73, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 73, 1905, par. 17

These words point out what the workers in the sanitarium may be. I am so glad that we can come to God in faith and humility and plead with Him until our souls are brought into such close relationship with Jesus, that we can lay our burdens at his feet, saying, “I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day.” [2 Timothy 1:12.] The Lord is able to do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” [Ephesians 3:20.] Our cold, faithless hearts may be quickened into sensibility and life, until we can pray in faith, preach in faith, and say in faith, “The life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God.” [Galatians 2:20.] Let us seek for the fulness of the salvation of Christ. Let us follow in the footsteps of the Son of God, for the promise is, “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 130, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 130, 1906, par. 21

Young men will present themselves for a chance to take hold of some work in connection with our offices, in connection with our sanitariums, and there must be a school that will not tie up our youth to have to hear coming from the lips of leaders sentiments that will set them on the wrong track. God demands of His followers that their path shall be brightness, not gloom, because they are connected with Him who is the Light of the world. Christ has left an example of a consistent course for all to follow in His footsteps. They that follow Me, He has said, shall not walk in darkness. [John 8:12.] Walk in the light, as I am in the light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 77, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 77, 1907, par. 3

I thank the Lord with heart, and soul, and voice that you have been a prominent and influential member of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. In the providence of God you have been led to the light, to obtain a knowledge of the truth. ... This light and knowledge you need to bring into your work, as you associate with women whose hearts are softened by the Spirit of God, and who are searching for the truth as for hidden treasure. For twenty years I have seen that the light would come to the women workers in temperance lines. But with sadness I have discerned that many of them are becoming politicians, and that against God. They enter into questions and debates and theories that they have no need to touch. Christ said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] ...

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 44, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, par. 6

The message of mercy that was brought from the Father was meant for the ears of the whole world. Christ came to unveil the character of God. He did not select a part of the human race and place a limited value on them. His grace is for all, and the estimate He places on the human soul is infinite. His power also is unlimited by right of His position with the Father. Had it not been for the great sacrifice He made in giving His life for mankind, the human race would have perished in their sin. But after the fall of Satan and man, Christ stepped in to give us another trial. He alone could give man another opportunity to recover himself; for only He who was equal with God could carry out the great scheme of redemption. When Christ has given such an example of comprehensive love, should an exclusive spirit be cherished by those who profess His name? Christ says, “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] He is the great fountain of life and salvation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 38, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, par. 15

“I am the light of the world,” Christ declared. [John 8:12.] When Moses saw the burning bush in Mount Horeb, and turned aside to see why the bush was not consumed, Christ revealed Himself to Moses and told him what he must do to deliver the children of Israel from Egypt. When Moses asked what he should say to the children of Israel, when they asked him by what authority he called them out of Egypt, God said, “Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.” [Exodus 3:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 63, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 63, 1908, par. 13

These words point out what the workers in the sanitarium may be. I am so glad that we can come to God in faith and humility, and plead with Him until our souls are brought into such close relationship with Jesus, that we can lay our burdens at His feet, saying, “I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day.” [2 Timothy 1:12.] The Lord is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think. Our cold, faithless hearts may be quickened into sensibility and life, until we can say in faith, “The life that I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God.” [Galatians 2:20.] Let us seek for the fulness of the salvation of Christ. Let us follow in the footsteps of the Son of God, for the promise is, “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 85, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, par. 6

We are to present to the world a life of overcoming—overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. But in order to do this, we must seek the Lord daily that our natural temperaments and desires may be brought under the converting power of the Holy Spirit and into harmony with the life of Christ. When you submit to these conditions, you will realize Christ’s power and sufficiency. Denying self, and walking humbly with God, you will experience the truth of the words of the Saviour, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 14:6; 8:12.]

Our High Calling

A Safe Guide, January 10

OHC 16.1

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 75, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 75, 1910, par. 2

What we want is to follow Jesus. And we have the Word of God, saying, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] If we will submit ourselves to Christ, to follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] We do not see the whole flood of light when the morning dawns. We see a little at a time, and should be thankful for that little. And if that little light comes from God, if He is the Source, we shall have a great deal more. What we want is the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and if we will only <cultivate> this simplicity, we shall, just as surely as Christ is our Saviour, obtain the victory. As long as we cling to Christ, Christ clings to us, though we see so much that the enemy will introduce.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Great Center From Whom Radiates All Glory, June 11

JNN 174.2

With prophetic eye Christ traced the scenes to take place in His last great conflict. He knew that when He should exclaim, “It is finished,” all heaven would triumph. His ear caught the distant music and the shouts of victory in the heavenly courts. He knew that the knell of Satan’s empire would then be sounded....

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Sun of Righteousness, November 13

JNN 334.3

Christ came to our world to manifest God to men and women, to lead them to God. “I am the light of the world,” He declared (John 8:12). What was it that consecrated Him the Light of the world? It was this. He came down from heaven. He is the true Teacher sent from God. He was the One chosen to reveal God’s character to the world. He is the bright and morning Star. He is the Sun of Righteousness, a Light to Lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of His people Israel. John declared of Him, “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:9).

Our High Calling

A Higher Standard, January 15

OHC 21.2

What fullness is expressed in the words, “I am the light of the world.” John 8:12. “I am the bread of life.” John 6:35. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” John 14:6. “I am the good shepherd.” John 10:14. “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. This life is what we must have, and we must have it more abundantly. God will breathe this life into every soul that dies to self and lives to Christ. But entire self-renunciation is required. Unless this takes place, we carry with us the evil that destroys our happiness. But when self is crucified, Christ lives in us, and the power of the Spirit attends our efforts.

Our High Calling

Blessings Diffusive as Sunlight, August 27

OHC 245.4

God’s blessings, sunshine and showers, heat and cold, and every natural blessing, are given to the world. Exclusiveness is not to be maintained by any people. “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12), Christ said. Light is a blessing, a universal blessing, which pours forth its treasures on a world unthankful, unholy, demoralized. The Lord Jesus came to demolish every wall of exclusion, to throw open every wall in the temple where God presides, that every ear may hear, that every eye may see, that every thirsty soul may drink of the water of life freely.54Manuscript 168, 1898.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

A View Of The Father’s Love

CET 31.1

Faith now took possession of my heart. I felt an inexpressible love for God, and had the witness of His Spirit that my sins were pardoned. My views of the Father were changed. I now looked upon Him as a kind and tender parent, rather than a stern tyrant compelling men to a blind obedience. My heart went out toward Him in a deep and fervent love. Obedience to His will seemed a joy; it was a pleasure to be in His service. No shadow clouded the light that revealed to me the perfect will of God. I felt the assurance of an indwelling Saviour, and realized the truth of what Christ had said: “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.

Our High Calling

A Strong Fortress of Truth, August 29

OHC 247.3

The Lord Jesus has made His church the depositary of sacred truth. He has left with her the work of carrying out His purposes and His plans to save the souls for whom He has manifested such interest, such unmeasured love. Like the sun in relation to our world, He rises amid the moral darkness—the Sun of Righteousness. He said of Himself, “I am the light of the world.” John 8:12. He said to his followers, “Ye are the light of the world.” Matthew 5:14.... By reflecting the image of Jesus Christ, by the beauty and holiness of their characters, by their continual self-denial and their separation from all idols, large or small, they reveal that they have learned in the school of Christ. They are continually catching the spirit of love and forbearance, meekness, and gentleness, and they stand as representatives of Christ, a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men....

Reflecting Christ

We Are to Reveal the Principles of Heaven, May 5

RC 139.4

To those who comply with the conditions, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean,” God’s promise is, “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18). It is the privilege and duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. “I am the light of the world,” said Jesus. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” (Proverbs 4:18). Every step of faith and obedience brings the soul into closer connection with the Light of the world, in whom there is “no darkness at all.” The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of His Spirit, the purity and holiness of His character, will be manifest in His witnesses.—The Great Controversy, 475, 476.

Reflecting Christ

The Influence of a Christian Home, June 2

RC 167.1

He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12.

Selected Messages Book 1

Danger of Light Becoming Darkness

1SM 135.2

Oh, how much this means to every soul—“I am the light of the world”; “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger [for anything more satisfying]; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 8:12; 6:35). To come to this condition means that you have found the Source of light and love, and have learned when and how you may be replenished, and may make use of the promises of God by continually applying them to your souls.

Selected Messages Book 2

Learned Lessons from the Months of Suffering

2SM 244.1

This is Jesus, the life of every grace, the life of every promise, the life of every ordinance, the life of every blessing. Jesus is the substance, the glory and fragrance, the very life itself. “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Then the royal path cast up the ransomed to walk in is not discouraging darkness. Our pilgrimage would indeed be lonely and painful were it not for Jesus. “I will not,” He says, “leave you comfortless” (John 14:18). Then let us gather every registered promise. Let us repeat them by day and meditate upon them in the night season, and be happy.

Sons and Daughters of God

In Being the Light of the World, May 11

SD 138.1

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12.

That I May Know Him

Source of All Light, April 1

TMK 97.1

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12.

That I May Know Him

Christ’s Blessings Universal, April 2

TMK 98.2

The grace of Christ is not confined to a few. The message of mercy and forgiveness brought from heaven by Christ was to be heard by all. Our Saviour says, “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12). His blessings are universal, reaching to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples. Christ came to break down every wall of partition ... that every soul, whether Jew or Gentile, might be a free worshiper and have access to God....

The Faith I Live By

When Rebaptism Is Appropriate, May 22

FLB 148.6

It is the privilege and the duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. “I am the light of the world,” said Jesus. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.... Every step of faith and obedience brings the soul into closer connection with the Light of the world, in whom there “is no darkness at all.” 73The Great Controversy, 475, 476.

Faith and Works

Chapter 8—God’s Commandment-Keeping People

FW 60.5

We cannot afford to do this work. We thus put our kind heavenly Father in a false light. All this should change. We must gather up the rays of divine truth and let our light shine upon the darkened pathway of others. Heaven’s light shines for those who will follow Christ, the light of the world. He says, “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).