EGW WritingsLuke 13
Ellen G. White
Read Luke 13 in the BibleLuke 13:1-9
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 17—“Spare it this Year Also”
COL 212.1
Christ in His teaching linked with the warning of judgment the invitation of mercy. “The Son of man is not come,” He said, “to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” Luke 9:56. “God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17. His mission of mercy in its relation to God’s justice and judgment is illustrated in the parable of the barren fig tree.COL 212.2
Christ had been warning the people of the coming of the kingdom of God, and He had sharply rebuked their ignorance and indifference. The signs in the sky, which foretold the weather, they were quick to read; but the signs of the times, which so clearly pointed to His mission, were not discerned.COL 212.3
But men were as ready then as men are now to conclude that they themselves are the favorites of heaven, and that the message of reproof is meant for another. The hearers told Jesus of an event which had just caused great excitement. Some of the measures of Pontius Pilate, the governor of Judea, had given offense to the people. There had been a popular tumult in Jerusalem, and Pilate had attempted to quell this by violence. On one occasion his soldiers had even invaded the precincts of the temple, and had cut down some Galilean pilgrims in the very act of slaying their sacrifices. The Jews regarded calamity as a judgment on account of the sufferer’s sin, and those who told of this act of violence did so with secret satisfaction. In their view their own good fortune proved them to be much better, and therefore more favored by God, than were these Galileans. They expected to hear from Jesus words of condemnation for these men, who, they doubted not, richly deserved their punishment.COL 213.1
The disciples of Christ did not venture to express their ideas until they had heard the opinion of their Master. He had given them pointed lessons in reference to judging other men’s characters, and measuring retribution according to their finite judgment. Yet they looked for Christ to denounce these men as sinners above others. Great was their surprise at His answer.COL 213.2
Turning to the multitude, the Saviour said, “Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay; but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” These startling calamities were designed to lead them to humble their hearts, and to repent of their sins. The storm of vengeance was gathering, which was soon to burst upon all who had not found a refuge in Christ.COL 213.3
As Jesus talked with the disciples and the multitude, He looked forward with prophetic glance and saw Jerusalem besieged with armies. He heard the tramp of the aliens marching against the chosen city and saw the thousands upon thousands perishing in the siege. Many of the Jews were, like those Galileans, slain in the temple courts, in the very act of offering sacrifice. The calamities that had fallen upon individuals were warnings from God to a nation equally guilty. “Except ye repent,” said Jesus, “ye shall all likewise perish.” For a little time the day of probation lingered for them. There was still time for them to know the things that belonged to their peace.COL 214.1
“A certain man,” He continued, “had a fig-tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig-tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?”COL 214.2
Christ’s hearers could not misunderstand the application of His words. David had sung of Israel as the vine brought out of Egypt. Isaiah had written, “The vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah His pleasant plant.” Isaiah 5:7. The generation to whom the Saviour had come were represented by the fig tree in the Lord’s vineyard—within the circle of His special care and blessing.COL 214.3
God’s purpose toward His people, and the glorious possibilities before them, had been set forth in the beautiful words, “That they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified,” Isaiah 61:3. The dying Jacob, under the Spirit of inspiration, had said of his best-loved son, “Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall.” And he said, “The God of thy Father” “shall help thee,” the Almighty “shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lieth under.” Genesis 49:22, 25. So God had planted Israel as a goodly vine by the wells of life. He had made His vineyard “in a very fruitful hill.” He had “fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine.” Isaiah 5:1, 2.COL 215.1
“And He looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes.” Isaiah 5:2. The people of Christ’s day made a greater show of piety than did the Jews of earlier ages, but they were even more destitute of the sweet graces of the Spirit of God. The precious fruits of character that made the life of Joseph so fragrant and beautiful, were not manifest in the Jewish nation.COL 215.2
God in His Son had been seeking fruit, and had found none. Israel was a cumberer of the ground. Its very existence was a curse; for it filled the place in the vineyard that a fruitful tree might fill. It robbed the world of the blessings that God designed to give. The Israelites had misrepresented God among the nations. They were not merely useless, but a decided hindrance. To a great degree their religion was misleading, and wrought ruin instead of salvation.COL 215.3
In the parable the dresser of the vineyard does not question the sentence that the tree, if it remained fruitless, should be cut down; but he knows and shares the owner’s interest in that barren tree. Nothing could give him greater joy than to see its growth and fruitfulness. He responds to the desire of the owner, saying, “Let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it and dung it; and if it bear fruit, well.”COL 215.4
The gardener does not refuse to minister to so unpromising a plant. He stands ready to give it still greater care. He will make its surroundings most favorable, and will lavish upon it every attention.COL 216.1
The owner and the dresser of the vineyard are one in their interest in the fig tree. So the Father and the Son were one in their love for the chosen people. Christ was saying to His hearers that increased opportunities would be given them. Every means that the love of God could devise would be put in operation that they might become trees of righteousness, bringing forth fruit for the blessing of the world.COL 216.2
Jesus did not in the parable tell the result of the gardener’s work. At that point His story was cut short. Its conclusion rested with the generation that heard His words. To them the solemn warning was given. “If not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” Upon them it depended whether the irrevocable words should be spoken. The day of wrath was near. In the calamities that had already befallen Israel, the owner of the vineyard was mercifully forewarning them of the destruction of the unfruitful tree.COL 216.3
The warning sounds down along the line to us in this generation. Are you, O careless heart, a fruitless tree in the Lord’s vineyard? Shall the words of doom erelong be spoken of you? How long have you received His gifts? How long has He watched and waited for a return of love? Planted in His vineyard, under the watchful care of the gardener, what privileges are yours! How often has the tender gospel message thrilled your heart! You have taken the name of Christ, you are outwardly a member of the church which is His body, and yet you are conscious of no living connection with the great heart of love. The tide of His life does not flow through you. The sweet graces of His character, “the fruits of the Spirit,” are not seen in your life.COL 217.1
The barren tree receives the rain and the sunshine and the gardener’s care. It draws nourishment from the soil. But its unproductive boughs only darken the ground, so that fruit-bearing plants cannot flourish in its shadow. So God’s gifts, lavished on you, convey no blessing to the world. You are robbing others of privileges that, but for you, might be theirs.COL 217.2
You realize, though it may be but dimly, that you are a cumberer of the ground. Yet in His great mercy God has not cut you down. He does not look coldly upon you. He does not turn away with indifference, or leave you to destruction. Looking upon you He cries, as He cried so many centuries ago concerning Israel, “How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? How shall I deliver thee, Israel? ... I will not execute the fierceness of Mine anger. I will not return to destroy Ephraim; for I am God, and not man.” Hosea 11:8, 9. The pitying Saviour is saying concerning you, Spare it this year also, till I shall dig about it and dress it.COL 218.1
With what unwearied love did Christ minister to Israel during the period of added probation. Upon the cross He prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34. After His ascension the gospel was preached first at Jerusalem. There the Holy Spirit was poured out. There the first gospel church revealed the power of the risen Saviour. There Stephen—“his face as it had been the face of an angel” (Acts 6:15)—bore his testimony and laid down his life. All that heaven itself could give was bestowed. “What could have been done more to My vineyard,” Christ said, “that I have not done in it?” Isaiah 5:4. So His care and labor for you are not lessened, but increased. Still He says, “I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment; lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.” Isaiah 27:3.COL 218.2
“If it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that”—COL 218.3
The heart that does not respond to divine agencies becomes hardened until it is no longer susceptible to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Then it is that the word is spoken, “Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?”COL 218.4
Today He invites you: “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God.... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely.... I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.... They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.... From Me is thy fruit found.” Hosea 14:1-8.Luke 13:1-35
Loma Linda Messages
Talk to the Students at Loma Linda, Calif. (Manuscript 79, 1910)
LLM 533.2
Luke 13: “And behold there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift herself up. And when Jesus saw her He called her to him and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight and glorified God.”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.12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 42
How terrible was it to Christ, whose heart overflowed with love for those whom He had purchased with human agony, to see Jerusalem fast filling up the figures of the reckoning that Christ keeps with nations and individuals. With tears in His eyes and voice He exclaimed, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye (could not? no; ye) would not.” [Matthew 23:37; Luke 13:34.] You would not yield up your determination to turn from the light, and to resist every measure which heaven has ordained for your peace and salvation.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 40, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 2
At that time it was customary for a writer to send his manuscript to some one for examination and criticism. Luke chose Theophilus, as a man in whom he had confidence, to perform this important work. He first directs the attention of Theophilus to the record of Christ’s life as given in the book of Luke which had also been addressed by the same writer to Theophilus. He says: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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79, 1910
Loma Linda, California
April 5, 1910
See variant Ms 79a, 1910. This manuscript is published in entirety in LLM 533-542.
25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 1
(Luke 13:11): “And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. And when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And He laid His hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.” [Verses 11-13.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 2
Thank God for this! That we can have such manifestations!25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 3
Verses 14-16. Consistency is a jewel, and we all want it!25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 4
Verses 17-22.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 5
We want to have just such a work that we shall take up after Christ’s example. That is what we need. And we need much more of the baptism of the Holy Spirit of God than we now manifest, and it is our privilege to have it.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 6
“Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Verses 23, 24.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 7
Why? Because they trust to uncertainties. They do not read the Bible. They do not understand what the Word says. When they read the Bible and understand what the Word says, let me tell you, there will a hundredfold more accomplished by our churches, by the ministers, and by those that are teachers, and by all men in office, and they will then see of the salvation of our God. What is the matter with us? We have not a love from above. We do not make a business of serving God.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 8
“He went through the cities and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem.” [Verse 22.] He went, teaching on the way. He did not go right straight along. He taught on the way, and when He saw persons who needed help, He would take their cases and present them in His teaching.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 9
“Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Verses 23, 24.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 10
What is the matter? They are not living their faith. They seek to enter in, but are not able because it requires earnest effort for every one of us to walk in the narrow path that leads to eternal life.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 11
Luke 13, verses 25 to 35.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 12
We see there is a great work to be done, and we want every one to be in their right position and to do their part of the work. We are laborers together with God. Now, God expects us to have a living experience as laborers together with Him, and He wants every one of us to be in working order. We are careless; we are too indifferent; we do not seem to know the plan being worked out. When we go on the cars, there is one who comes through with a great package of papers. We could read them, but what are they good for? We may find a little news in them, but what we need is the Word of life, and to have a missionary spirit wherever we are. The world will never be warned if we take it so easy. We know how it was with the schools of the prophets. We know that they were learning out of the Scriptures, and that they were praising God. Because they understood the Scriptures, God was glorified. And when Saul was searching for David, he came right up to the school of the prophets, and behold, the first thing they saw, he was prophesying right with the prophets. The school of the prophets was a special school to get the endowment of the Holy Spirit of God, and then go forth into the dark places of the earth and seek for those who would listen to the testimony that they had to bring.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 13
We are not half awake. We are not to be honored ourselves.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 14
I was so astonished when I came back to this country, after we had been gone nearly ten years in Australia, to see scarcely anything being done in San Francisco and Oakland. I tried to enquire into it, as to what this meant. They said they had men out. “How many have you? How many will it take in the manner you are doing the work?” Well, they said they had other duties to do, but they did not tell me what they were. There was only one man going around visiting and doing the work they should be doing, and he was not competent. He did not have the experience needed, though he did the best he could.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 15
God wants active men. He wants men that will work. He wants men that will understand that there is work for them to do. They can go in and give Bible readings. We know because we have seen it accomplished. We have advised it, and it has been done, and the Spirit of the Lord has blessed their efforts. But not one-thousandth part of the work has been done in these cities that ought to be done. That is what is presented to me.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 16
Now. I want to tell our brethren that there is a work we are to do, and that work is to be interested in the cases of others. There are cities all around us, and when I was in Australia, how glad I would have been if I could have gone around where the people were, as you can here. Christ said, Go everywhere and preach the Word. It is the Word they must have. It is the Scriptures they must have. We do not want these papers that are coming into our parlors. I have told those in our family that if they missed their papers, they need not inquire of me, for they would not find them. I said, If you miss your papers, you can find them where you can, but I shall not take any charge of them, except to put them out of sight where nobody will see them. The news of the day we have sometimes.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 17
But I want to tell you that there is a great work to be done in our world, and we feel intensely like doing our part.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 18
In the fourteenth chapter of Romans we read, “Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.” And in the eleventh verse, he gives us this intimation: “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” Everyone must give an account of himself to God. Are you prepared for it? Are you prepared to give an account of yourself before you go to sleep in the night season? Have you called to mind what you have done to glorify God?25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 19
Now here is this institution. We are glad that we have it. We want to act our individual parts every one of us that believe in Jesus Christ that He is our Saviour. We want a faith that acts. But there are many who, as soon as they come to the place where they can be of service, they grow to such proportions that they cannot handle themselves nor anybody else. What we want is to be humble workers for Jehovah.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 20
We have to face the future realities. And we have obtained such buildings as these as we could obtain them, that we might give instruction to those who come to these institutions, that they might have light and physical help and understand how to treat their own families and their own sick when they return to their homes. And no doubt there are many of them who appreciate this and consider it a great advantage. Now, every one of us can be workers together with God, and while we are here, we can watch to see if we cannot speak a word in season to this one and to that one. The blessing of the Lord will rest upon us just as surely as we will try to bring ourselves in right relation to God.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 21
(Reading from Testimonies to the Church, vol. 6, “Praise Meetings,” page 62, to “Revival Efforts,” page 64.)25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 22
We had to work wonderfully hard before our institutions were established. We went from place to place, and as we saw the cases who needed help, we would take right hold and give them treatments. It would be a good thing if more of this kind of work were done now, notwithstanding we have this institution. There are a great many who cannot come here for lack of means or lack of disposition to do so. But if you go into the homes of the people and treat the sick that need help, this will link you up with them and they with you.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 23
Now what is Satan doing? He links himself up with every discordant element in our world. Satan and his vast numbers of those that fell from heaven who are disobedient to the heavenly commandments, will misrepresent the things that were of great importance there. They will give them to understand that they understand all about it and that they can do this and that.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 24
We are not building up what we should inside and outside of our churches. That is the very work that the Lord wants us to carry forward. We have every endowment and every facility provided for discharging the duties that devolve upon us, and we should be grateful that we have these advantages.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 25
Now here are the sick. It may be that you could go into their houses and take your Bible in your hands, and read some of the comforting things that are in our books. We must not give ourselves up to ourselves. This institution must spread as a great blessing, and we must every one of us act our part outside as well as inside. And teach the children what to do. This is a good school for children if you make it so, but if you do not, it is worse than if they had not been here. We want to be in a position where we can honor and glorify God every day. What are we doing here in this world? What have we this sanitarium for? It is that we might bring relief to the sick, and then point them to the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. This is carrying our mission just as it should be carried, and the Lord wants every one of us to be in working order. If we will come under discipline to God, we will be as happy as we can wish to be.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 26
We see the devil working on his side, and he will bring in the most entrancing things of heaven with which he is acquainted into his own workings. We can have a great deal more knowledge of these things than we possess, and we can be the happiest people in God that are in the world. Right in this institution we can be continually working on the right side. Do not fall back and look on the dark side. If you have children, here is a good place for you to learn to educate them, to learn how to bring them up, to teach and guide them. You can do this right here, but that is not enough. There are other places, the towns which are around you, and we have seen these places being worked and are thankful for this. We suppose there is work being down all around here.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 27
What every one of us needs is to keep the Saviour in view. He said to His disciples, instead of mourning at what was before them, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that were I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 28
He had been telling them about it and just what He was going to do, and yet the unbelieving disciples said, “We know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way?” [Verse 5.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 29
I want to tell you that we must bear our own individual experiences for ourselves, and we cannot enter heaven unless we have that experience. We may have our names on the church book, but have we a daily experience in the things of God?25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 30
“Let not your hearts be troubled,” He said. [Verse 1.] He would comfort and encourage His disciples with the cross right before Him.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 31
Our dear Saviour says again, “I am the true vine. ... Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [John 15:1, 2.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 32
Now, we want to know what fruit we bear. We have a world to save, and we want our hearts to take right hold of the ministry of Christ on the earth. We want to advance that ministry, and we can do it if we will. You have very many advantages here. I thought when I first saw this place what a blessing it would be if we could only get it; and now I am thankful that we have it. The advantages that we have in this very place mean a great deal. But there are places around us that need help. Let every one that can take their Bible in their hands and see what missionary work can be done. Let them carry with them some of our little books, and if people do not want to buy them, leave them with them, and tell them to see whether they want them or not; and if you want to give some away, give them away. There are chances to work all around us.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 33
Satan has the advantage in many things. He can quote all those glories that he had in the heavenly sanctuary just as though they belong to him, and he will quote these things. He is working upon human minds, and he will bring in all the sophistries that he can bring before them, and he will mix in with some of his wonderful, wonderful learning and agency that he had in the heavenly courts. And they think he is certainly excellent. You want all these excellencies, with yourself undefiled, and you can have them.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 34
Now the light of truth is to develop and shine. Satan will present the light that he had so that others may think, Now that must be a very intelligent being, a very good man, and then he will lead them right on to perdition. Now, we have a truth, and we have a God, and we have a Saviour. God wants us to make this institution a perfect success. He wants us to take hold of the work intelligently and to praise His holy name, and we can do it if we will.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 35
Every time that you go into a meeting where they have not the light of truth, Satan is present, and he is constantly working upon human minds. And as we have the truth, we want to be in a position that we can present it in its beauty and charms. We want to be full of usefulness. God can make a success of this institution, and it depends upon us to make Him all and in all.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 36
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God.” [Isaiah 58:1, 2.]25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 37
Now you see, there are those that do not believe in the commandments, but the Sabbath commandment is to bring us rich blessings. Some do not believe, but we want to be in a position that we can live these commandments, and our very living will teach the people that we are what we profess to be.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 38
I want to say we should be in earnest and intensely interested. We have a grand review before us. People are watching us everywhere, and they are watching to see how much higher our piety is than the piety of those that have no connection with such an institution. We want to be in a position where we can let our piety bear fruit outside of the institution when we have opportunity. There will be opportunities. You cannot neglect things here, but you can find opportunities where you can let the light of this institution shine forth. God wants you to do it, and I believe you will try to do it. What we want is living, working faith. It is just like this: If we will show forth the praises of God, what He has done for us and what He will do for us, it will have as much influence as any treatment that you can give. Let us all come into that position where we will lay hold upon Jesus Christ.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 39
There is a grand review to take place only a little time from this, when there is to be an examination of what we believe and what we are. Are we preparing to be transferred to the higher course, to the higher school where Christ will lead us to the tree of life and there will educate and teach us in regard to the advantages of that tree, and where we shall take the lessons from His lips? Are we preparing for that grand review? Are we fashioning our characters after the divine similitude? God help us that we may be Christians in every sense of the word.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 40
Angels will be round about us wherever we go. Every one of us needs to have a connection with Jesus Christ, and to do the works of God. We want to be wide-awake, full of zeal and love for God, advancing step by step heavenward. Are we prepared for the grand review? It is coming on. Satan is gathering up his grand knowledge that he had when he was an angel of light, and he is coming in to deceive the very elect with that very knowledge. We want to be in a position that we can work intelligently, we can work in faith, we can work outside of just our little compass and bring to souls a knowledge of the truth. Satan is preparing his company for the review that will take place when he tells them that he is going to take all the world for his subjects.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 41
Young men, young women, teachers, doctors, do not put on a pompous air that you know everything that is worth knowing; but you ask the Lord to let His blessing rest upon you so that you can give it to others. If you do that, the salvation of God will be received, and it will follow you wherever you go. We have but half enough of Christ, for He is a whole Saviour. And He can save everyone that comes unto Him. You have not half that working faith—believing, intelligent faith—that it is your privilege to have.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 42
If we will walk humbly with God, if we will walk in the Spirit of Christ, no one of us will carry heavy burdens. We shall lay them on the great Burden-bearer. Then we shall experience triumphs, and every camp meeting will be a love feast because God’s presence is with His people. All heaven is interested in our salvation. The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand, are commissioned ministers to those who shall be heirs of salvation. They crowd against evil and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Often there are apparent difficulties in our path, but the Lord Himself is our Helper.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 43
“Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. The Lord hath taken away thy judgments, He hath cast out thine enemies; the King of Israel, even the Lord, is in the midst of thee; thou shalt not see evil any more. In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not; and to Zion, Let not thine hands be slack. The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.” Zephaniah 3:14-17.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 44
This is the testimony that the Lord desires to bear to the world. His praise should be continually upon our lips. Such testimonies will be an influence in the world. We must show them that we have something better than that which they are seeking. When Jesus talked to the Samaritan woman, He was not reproving her for going to draw water from Jacob’s well, but He presented something of far greater value. He presented the fountain of living waters.25LtMs, Ms 79, 1910, par. 45
If we prayed as much as we ought to pray, if we realized that there is an open connection between God and us, we should be in an altogether different position than we are. We shall be cheerful, and we shall see that there are a hundred blessings all around, no matter whether we are connected with this institution or another one. You will see that you can speak a word for Christ in different places. We have work to do, every one of us. Time is short. We have but a little time now.Luke 13:2-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 7, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 7, 1897, par. 2
The destiny of such men will be an ultimate separation from Christ, as complete as that of the dead branch that has been severed from the vine. In heart they separated from Jesus years ago, and have become like the unfruitful tree of which the Owner of the vineyard said, “Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down: why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: and if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” [Luke 13:7-9.]12LtMs, Ms 7, 1897, par. 3
“Then after that.” [Verse 9.] What meaning is there in these words? In them there is a lesson for all who are connected with the work of God. A period of probation was granted to the tree that bore no fruit. And in like manner God bears long with His people. But to those who have had great advantages, and who are standing in positions of high and sacred trust, and yet bear no fruit, Christ says, “Cut it down: why cumbereth it the ground?” [Verse 7.] There must be work corresponding with the sacredness of the truth they have had placed before them. Old things must pass away; all things must become new.12LtMs, Ms 7, 1897, par. 4
Some of the Jews had brought to Jesus the story of the Galileans whom Pilate had slain at the foot of the altar, thinking that it was because of their wickedness that this had happened unto them, and that they were deservedly suffering for their sins. But the great Teacher had a lesson for His hearers. He said unto them, “Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay; but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, on whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all the men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell ye, Nay; but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” [Verses 2-5.]12LtMs, Ms 7, 1897, par. 12
The overbearing spirit manifested in the Review and Herald Office in lording it over God’s heritage has been looked upon by the God of heaven with indignation. They have brought into the sacred work of God principles that He hates—principles which if carried out, would bring the sharp axe to the root of the tree. Had they loved God supremely, they would have loved the children of God, they would have loved all mankind with the love that is expressed in the life of Christ. It is the absence of the love of Christ that causes the Lord to pronounce the sentence, “Cut it down: why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.]Luke 13:3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 56, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 56, 1896, par. 10
I cannot write more; I must close. I will have some things sent by next mail. Study Revelation in connection with Daniel, for history will be repeated. We must be true and faithful amid the iniquity that abounds. At no period of time are we in so much danger as when prosperity seems to crown our efforts. Self must be hidden in God. We are living amid the perils of the last days, and many of us are insensible to the perils that threaten our world. We, with all our religious advantages, ought to know far more today than we do know. “Watch therefore,” said Jesus, “for ye know not when the time is. Be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.” [Mark 13:33; Matthew 24:42, 44.] “Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:3.] The right hand is to be cut off; the right eye is to be plucked out. There is hidden depravity that needs to be carefully considered and uprooted. God help us individually to purify our souls by obeying the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 19a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 35
“Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Unless there is a thorough reformation and turning unto the Lord, He will surely turn His face from His institution, the publishing house. Take no false panacea for wounds and bruises. Go to Jesus. Tell Him that you must be cleansed and restored. There is not one beyond hope if you will come just as you are. You may put on counterfeit garments of righteousness. You may smile and say that all these difficulties are made up of little or nothing. But God says to you in Battle Creek, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 48, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 48, 1899, par. 15
Christ’s message to the people was, “Unless ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:3.] And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent. The Lord would have His servants today preach the old gospel doctrine, sorrow for sin, repentance, and confession. We want old-fashioned sermons, old-fashioned customs, old-fashioned mothers and fathers in Israel. The sinner must be labored for, perseveringly, earnestly, wisely, until he shall see that he is a transgressor of God’s law, and exercises repentance toward God, and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. When the sinner is conscious of his helpless condition, and feels his need of a Saviour, he may come with hope and faith to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Christ will accept the soul who comes to Him in true repentance. A broken and a contrite heart He will not despise.Luke 13:5
Evangelism
The Evangelistic Sermon
Ev 179.4
Preaching for a Revival—Repent, repent, was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness. Christ’s message to the people was, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:5. And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent.Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
MR No. 163—Fanaticism and Side Issues
3MR 27.2
The Old and New Testament Scriptures show us the only way in which this work should be done. Repent, repent, repent, was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness. Christ’s message to the people was “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:5. And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent.Selected Messages Book 2
A Call for Old-fashioned Sermons
2SM 19.1
The Old and New Testament Scriptures show us the only way in which this work should be done. Repent, repent, repent was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness. Christ’s message to the people was “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish” (Luke 13:5). And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 82, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 82, 1894, par. 9
The Old and New Testament Scriptures show us the only way in which this work should be done. Repent, repent, [repent,] was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness. Christ’s message to the people was, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:5. And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent.Luke 13:6-9
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Chapter 39—Self-Control and Fidelity
7T 200.3
“A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: and if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” Luke 13:6-9.Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists
Sermon—Parable of the Fig-Tree
HS 180.2
“A certain man had a fig-tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig-tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it; and if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” Luke 13:6-9.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Necessity for Fruit Bearing
3TT 184.3
“A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: and if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” Luke 13:6-9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 25, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 25, 1885, par. 9
There is an appointment out for me tonight. We descend the many steps, turn the corner of the block, then pass under an arch into a court and begin to ascend until we mount four pairs of stairs into the hall. No fire has been built in this hall through the season until that afternoon; and as the plastering is upon the brick, all that the fire could do was to draw out the dampness and make more lurid and objectionable the atmosphere. I felt that I was inhaling cold, damp air that made my lungs smart and caused them to be painful for some hours afterward. There was a little company assembled of intelligent, noble-looking men and women—Danes. They had accepted the truth through Brother Brorson’s and Matteson’s labors, and many of them had received the truth under difficulties that our American brethren know nothing of. I think that these who thus take hold of the truth will receive a greater reward according as their faith is tested. I spoke upon the barren fig tree. Luke 13:6-9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 11, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 11, 1902, par. 1
“A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none; cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground. And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it; and if it bear fruit, well; and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” [Luke 13:6-9.]Luke 13:7
The Great Controversy
Chapter 1—The Destruction of Jerusalem
GC 27.3
For nearly forty years after the doom of Jerusalem had been pronounced by Christ Himself, the Lord delayed His judgments upon the city and the nation. Wonderful was the long-suffering of God toward the rejectors of His gospel and the murderers of His Son. The parable of the unfruitful tree represented God’s dealings with the Jewish nation. The command had gone forth, “Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?” (Luke 13:7) but divine mercy had spared it yet a little longer. There were still many among the Jews who were ignorant of the character and the work of Christ. And the children had not enjoyed the opportunities or received the light which their parents had spurned. Through the preaching of the apostles and their associates, God would cause light to shine upon them; they would be permitted to see how prophecy had been fulfilled, not only in the birth and life of Christ, but in His death and resurrection. The children were not condemned for the sins of the parents; but when, with a knowledge of all the light given to their parents, the children rejected the additional light granted to themselves, they became partakers of the parents’ sins, and filled up the measure of their iniquity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 69, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 69, 1899, par. 8
Which road are we travelling? We may take with us into the broad road all our evil tendencies, our cheapness of character, our associates in evil. We may choose to listen to their words and laugh at their wit, but in so doing we shall descend lower and lower in the scale of moral value with God, and at last the words will be spoken, “Cut down the unfruitful tree. Why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.] It remains to be seen whether the members of the Wessels family have chosen Christ or the world, whether heaven is of the highest value to them, or whether self and self-indulgence are more to them than Christ and God and heaven. It remains to be seen whether they will follow Christ. “He that will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 120a, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, par. 8
Brethren and sisters of the Healdsburg church, to you I am instructed to say, Beware how you deal with your present opportunities. Let not this time pass without falling on the Rock and being broken. In the church are men and women who need a reconversion. I call upon everyone to arouse from your indifference and to discern your destitution of true grace. Thank God that it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted. Be thankful that the Lord has not said of you, “Cut down the unfruitful tree, and let another that will bear fruit take its place.” [See Luke 13:7.]The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem
GC88 28.1
For forty years after the doom of Jerusalem had been pronounced by Christ himself, the Lord delayed his judgments upon the city and the nation. Wonderful was the long-suffering of God toward the rejecters of his gospel and the murderers of his Son. The parable of the unfruitful tree represented God’s dealings with the Jewish nation. The command had gone forth, “Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.] but divine mercy had spared it yet a little longer. There were still many among the Jews who were ignorant of the character and the work of Christ. And the children had not enjoyed the opportunities or received the light which their parents had spurned. Through the preaching of the apostles and their associates, God would cause light to shine upon them; they would be permitted to see how prophecy had been fulfilled, not only in the birth and life of Christ, but in his death and resurrection. The children were not condemned for the sins of the parents; but when, with a knowledge of all the light given to their parents, the children rejected the additional light granted to themselves, they became partakers of the parents’ sins, and filled up the measure of their iniquity.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem
4SP 28.3
For forty years after the doom of Jerusalem had been pronounced by Christ himself, the Lord delayed his judgments upon the city and the nation. Wonderful was the long-suffering of God toward the rejecters of his gospel and the murderers of his Son. The parable of the unfruitful tree represented God’s dealings with the Jewish nation. The command had gone forth. “Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.] but divine mercy had spared it yet a little longer. There were still many among the Jews who were ignorant of the character and the work of Christ. And the children had not enjoyed the opportunities or received the light which their parents had spurned. Through the preaching of the apostles and their associates, God would cause light to shine upon them; they could see how prophecy had been fulfilled, not only in the birth and life of Christ, but in his death and resurrection. The children were not condemned for the sins of the parents; but when, with a knowledge of all the light given to their parents, the children rejected the additional light granted to themselves, they became partakers of the parents’ sins, and filled up the measure of their iniquity.To Be Like Jesus
Principles of the Gospel Must Control Us, June 10
BLJ 173.1
Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, “Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?” Luke 13:7, NKJV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 1, 1869
2LtMs, Ms 1, 1869, par. 19
O that the Lord would give us to feel as we have never felt before. If you knew that you had but one more hour of probation, you would change your course. You would not dare to stand in the position you are in today. If you knew that probation would close in one year, you would not continue the course you are now pursuing, and yet you do not know that you will live one day longer. You have not one day to call your own. We know not how soon death may be feeling for the heart-strings of any one of us. We know not how soon the axe may be laid at the root of the tree, and the sentence go forth, “Cut it down. Why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.] Will you pass on in your sinful state, with envy and jealousy and hatred in your heart? While you do this, you are no more fit for heaven than Satan himself.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 46, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 46, 1888, par. 20
I fear for you both. I tremble before God for your souls. Will you make thorough work and return fully unto the Lord? For if you do, He will have mercy upon you and will abundantly pardon. You have both been like the unfruitful fig tree, producing only leaves. Let not the work be delayed until God shall say, “Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 72, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 72, 1890, par. 9
I was much gratified to see you looking so well, healthwise. This is a blessing from God for which you should render thanksgiving and praise to His holy name, who preserves you in your work that Satan shall not bring upon you accident, and shall not deprive you of the use of your limbs or what is still more valuable, your reason. He is [a] Watcher on your path continually, that the unfruitful tree shall not be cut down because of the prayers of your faithful mother and until mercy shall have been exhausted and He sees that you are joined to your idols. Then the word will go forth, “Cut the fruitless tree down for it is only a cumberer of the ground.” [Luke 13:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 43, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 43, 1891, par. 19
Friday, excellent discourses were given through the day. In the afternoon I again spoke to the people. I had freedom in speaking to the people from (Luke 3:2-18), seeking to impress the people with the necessity of being converted, fruitful trees in the Lord’s vineyard, and the terrible denunciation if we continued year after year to disappoint the expectation of Christ until the mandate goes forth, “Cut it down. Why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 3, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 17
Yet you have been withholding from God, and have been practicing robbery toward Him during your lifetime. Do you want God to treat you as you have treated others? Is it not best for you to ask the Lord to cleanse the soul-temple from its pollution of selfishness? Had you done your duty in helping the church as God requires that you should, your interests would have been identified with those of the church, and you would have received the blessing which always follows obedience. God is the only being in the universe that knows men exactly as they are. He Himself weighs the exact amount of your responsibility to Him, and knows all the circumstances of your life. You should fear to transgress, lest you reach the limit of the figures that mark the end of your probation, and the Lord say, “Here is a tree to which I have come time and again hoping to find fruit, but I find none. Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.]Luke 13:7-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 10, 1871
2LtMs, Lt 10, 1871, par. 2
Dear children, may not this prove to be your case, represented by the plants, in a spiritual sense. We hope your dear Saviour will not turn from you in disappointment as you have from your plants because of their unfruitfulness. May the dear Saviour who has patiently waited for you to yield fruit, decide to wait another year and more fully prove and test you; and if you bear no fruit, He may say, “Why cumbereth it the ground? I have come again and again, year after year, to find fruit upon this tree but I have as often been disappointed. If it bear no fruit this year, I will cut it down.” [Luke 13:7-9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 10, 1881
3LtMs, Lt 10, 1881, par. 8
Jesus loves you and He is pleading for you before His Father in the heavenly courts. He presents His wounded hands and says, “Spare him a little longer; cut not down the cumberer of the ground. I will give him still another opportunity. I will let the light of truth shine still more brightly upon his soul, and after that, if he refuses, Thou mayest cut down the unfruitful tree.” [Luke 13:7-9.]Luke 13:8-9
From Heaven With Love
Why This One Tree Was Cursed
HLv 390.1
The parable of the fig tree, spoken before Christ’s visit to Jerusalem, had a direct connection with the lesson He taught in cursing the fruitless tree. For the barren tree of the parable the gardener pleaded, “Let it alone, sir, this year also, till I dig about it and put on manure. And if it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.” Luke 13:8, 9, RSV. It was to have every advantage. In the parable, the result of the gardener’s work was not foretold: it depended on that people to whom Christ’s words were spoken, represented by the fruitless tree. It rested with them to decide their own destiny. Every advantage was given them, but they did not profit by their increased blessings. By Christ’s act in cursing the barren fig tree, the result was shown. They had determined their own destruction.Luke 13:9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 35, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 35, 1896, par. 11
The wrong you have done is not charged as being done to your wife, but to Jesus Christ in the person of His saint. “Verily I say unto you,” said Christ, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] Jesus Christ identifies His interest with suffering humanity. Your wife is His property, bought with the price of His blood. But you have permitted her to work like a slave to support herself and her forsaken little ones. This will all appear against you in the books of heaven unless you repent and confess your sins to God. I beg of you for your soul’s sake to make no delay. God has borne long with your perversity. He has given you more than one test and trial. Shall the mandate at last go forth, “And after that thou shalt cut it down”? [Luke 13:9.]Luke 13:11-35
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79a, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 1
Luke 13:11 “And behold there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift herself up. And when Jesus saw her He called her to him and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight and glorified God.” [Verses 11-13.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 3
“And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation because that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath Day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work; in them therefore, come and be healed and not on the Sabbath Day. The Lord then answered him and said. Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the Sabbath Day loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to the watering? And ought not this woman being a daughter of Abraham, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” [Verses 14-16.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 7
And He went thru the cities and villages teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem.” [Verses 17-22.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 9
“And he went thru the cities and villages teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem. Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the straight gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Verses 22-24.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 11
“And he went thru the cities and villages teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem.” [Verse 22.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 13
“Then said one unto him, Lord are there few that be saved? He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the straight gate for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Verses 23, 24.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 16
“The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying unto him, Get thee out and depart hence for Herod will kill thee. And He said unto them, Go ye and tell that fox, Behold I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected. Nevertheless, I must walk today, and tomorrow, and the day following; for it can not be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem.” [Verses 25-33.]25LtMs, Ms 79a, 1910, par. 17
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings and ye would not. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate, and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Verses 34, 35.]Luke 13:14
To Be Like Jesus
A Day of Healing and Joy, May 17
BLJ 148.1
But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.” Luke 13:14, NKJV.Luke 13:16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98b, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98b, 1896, par. 16
Christ longs to see you resist the adversary of souls. Lift your heart to the Lord, for He is waiting to comfort and strengthen you. Repeat over and over again, Christ will do all for me. When accused by the ruler of the synagogue for healing a woman on the Sabbath day, Jesus answered, “Ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, to be loosed from this bond?” [Luke 13:16.] And today, my sister, the Lord says to you, Be not discouraged, but cast your burdens upon Me. You cannot carry your own sins. I will take them all, and will bring to pass that which is good for My people and My servants, and good for thine own soul.Luke 13:18-19
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 5—“Like a Grain of Mustard Seed”
COL 76.1
In the multitude that listened to Christ’s teaching there were many Pharisees. These noted contemptuously how few of His hearers acknowledged Him as the Messiah. And they questioned with themselves how this unpretending teacher could exalt Israel to universal dominion. Without riches, power, or honor, how was He to establish the new kingdom? Christ read their thoughts and answered them:COL 76.2
“Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?” In earthly governments there was nothing that could serve for a similitude. No civil society could afford Him a symbol. “It is like a grain of mustard seed,” He said, “which, when it is sown upon the earth, though it be less than all the seeds that are upon the earth, yet when it is sown, groweth up, and becometh greater than all the herbs, and putteth out great branches; so that the birds of the heaven can lodge under the shadow thereof.” (R.V.).COL 77.1
The germ in the seed grows by the unfolding of the life-principle which God has implanted. Its development depends upon no human power. So it is with the kingdom of Christ. It is a new creation. Its principles of development are the opposite of those that rule the kingdoms of this world. Earthly governments prevail by physical force; they maintain their dominion by war; but the founder of the new kingdom is the Prince of Peace. The Holy Spirit represents worldly kingdoms under the symbol of fierce beasts of prey; but Christ is “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. In His plan of government there is no employment of brute force to compel the conscience. The Jews looked for the kingdom of God to be established in the same way as the kingdoms of the world. To promote righteousness they resorted to external measures. They devised methods and plans. But Christ implants a principle. By implanting truth and righteousness, He counterworks error and sin.COL 77.2
As Jesus spoke this parable, the mustard plant could be seen far and near, lifting itself above the grass and grain, and waving its branches lightly in the air. Birds flitted from twig to twig, and sang amid the leafy foliage. Yet the seed from which sprang this giant plant was among the least of all seeds. At first it sent up a tender shoot, but it was of strong vitality, and grew and flourished until it reached its present great size. So the kingdom of Christ in its beginning seemed humble and insignificant. Compared with earthly kingdoms it appeared to be the least of all. By the rulers of this world Christ’s claim to be a king was ridiculed. Yet in the mighty truths committed to His followers the kingdom of the gospel possessed a divine life. And how rapid was its growth, how widespread its influence! When Christ spoke this parable, there were only a few Galilean peasants to represent the new kingdom. Their poverty, the fewness of their numbers, were urged over and over again as a reason why men should not connect themselves with these simple-minded fishermen who followed Jesus. But the mustard seed was to grow and spread forth its branches throughout the world. When the earthly kingdoms whose glory then filled the hearts of men should perish, the kingdom of Christ would remain, a mighty and far-reaching power.COL 78.1
So the work of grace in the heart is small in its beginning. A word is spoken, a ray of light is shed into the soul, an influence is exerted that is the beginning of the new life; and who can measure its results?COL 78.2
Not only is the growth of Christ’s kingdom illustrated by the parable of the mustard seed, but in every stage of its growth the experience represented in the parable is repeated. For His church in every generation God has a special truth and a special work. The truth that is hid from the worldly wise and prudent is revealed to the child-like and humble. It calls for self-sacrifice. It has battles to fight and victories to win. At the outset its advocates are few. By the great men of the world and by a world-conforming church, they are opposed and despised. See John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, standing alone to rebuke the pride and formalism of the Jewish nation. See the first bearers of the gospel into Europe. How obscure, how hopeless, seemed the mission of Paul and Silas, the two tentmakers, as they with their companions took ship at Troas for Philippi. See “Paul the aged,” in chains, preaching Christ in the stronghold of the Caesars. See the little communities of slaves and peasants in conflict with the heathenism of imperial Rome. See Martin Luther withstanding that mighty church which is the masterpiece of the world’s wisdom. See him holding fast God’s word against emperor and pope, declaring, “Here I take my stand; I can not do otherwise. God be my help.” See John Wesley preaching Christ and His righteousness in the midst of formalism, sensualism, and infidelity. See one burdened with the woes of the heathen world, pleading for the privilege of carrying to them Christ’s message of love. Hear the response of ecclesiasticism: “Sit down, young man. When God wants to convert the heathen, He will do it without your help or mine.”COL 79.1
The great leaders of religious thought in this generation sound the praises and build the monuments of those who planted the seed of truth centuries ago. Do not many turn from this work to trample down the growth springing from the same seed today? The old cry is repeated, “We know that God spake unto Moses; as for this fellow [Christ in the messenger He sends], we know not from whence he is.” John 9:29. As in earlier ages, the special truths for this time are found, not with the ecclesiastical authorities, but with men and women who are not too learned or too wise to believe the word of God.COL 79.2
“For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called; but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty. And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are” (1 Corinthians 1:26-28); “that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:5).COL 79.3
And in this last generation the parable of the mustard seed is to reach a signal and triumphant fulfillment. The little seed will become a tree. The last message of warning and mercy is to go to “every nation and kindred and tongue” (Revelation 14:6-14), “to take out of them a people for His name” (Acts 15:14; Revelation 18:1). And the earth shall be lightened with His glory.Luke 13:20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 118, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 118, 1902, par. 13
When Christ was on this earth, He sought in vain for something with which to compare His kingdom. “Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God,” He said, “and with what comparison shall I compare it?” [Luke 13:20; Mark 4:30.] He who is the Wisdom of God seemed to hesitate, embarrassed. There was nothing in earthly governments which He could use as a means of comparison. Society contained no fitting symbol of His church. The kingdom of Christ does not and cannot bear any resemblance to the kingdoms of the world. In the kingdom of Christ there is no instrument of coercion. In it force has no place. The gospel of Him who gave His life for the life of the world is a gospel of peace. It is the Saviour’s grace, His love, His tender compassion that breaks every barrier down. The gospel is a power of itself, above all and encompassing all. It is a divine, immutable principle, a wellspring fed by the stream that flows from the throne of God.Luke 13:20-21
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 7—Like Unto Leaven
COL 95.1
Many educated and influential men had come to hear the Prophet of Galilee. Some of these looked with curious interest upon the multitude that had gathered about Christ as He taught by the sea. In this great throng all classes of society were represented. There were the poor, the illiterate, the ragged beggar, the robber with the seal of guilt upon his face, the maimed, the dissipated, the merchant and the man of leisure, high and low, rich and poor, all crowding upon one another for a place to stand and hear the words of Christ. As these cultured men gazed upon the strange assembly, they asked themselves, Is the kingdom of God composed of such material as this? Again the Saviour replied by a parable:COL 95.2
“The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.”COL 95.3
Among the Jews leaven was sometimes used as an emblem of sin. At the time of the Passover the people were directed to remove all the leaven from their houses as they were to put away sin from their hearts. Christ warned His disciples, “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Luke 12:1. And the apostle Paul speaks of the “leaven of malice and wickedness.” 1 Corinthians 5:8. But in the Saviour’s parable, leaven is used to represent the kingdom of heaven. It illustrates the quickening, assimilating power of the grace of God.COL 96.1
None are so vile, none have fallen so low, as to be beyond the working of this power. In all who will submit themselves to the Holy Spirit a new principle of life is to be implanted; the lost image of God is to be restored in humanity.COL 96.2
But man cannot transform himself by the exercise of his will. He possesses no power by which this change can be effected. The leaven—something wholly from without—must be put into the meal before the desired change can be wrought in it. So the grace of God must be received by the sinner before he can be fitted for the kingdom of glory. All the culture and education which the world can give will fail of making a degraded child of sin a child of heaven. The renewing energy must come from God. The change can be made only by the Holy Spirit. All who would be saved, high or low, rich or poor, must submit to the working of this power.COL 97.1
As the leaven, when mingled with the meal, works from within outward, so it is by the renewing of the heart that the grace of God works to transform the life. No mere external change is sufficient to bring us into harmony with God. There are many who try to reform by correcting this or that bad habit, and they hope in this way to become Christians, but they are beginning in the wrong place. Our first work is with the heart.COL 97.2
A profession of faith and the possession of truth in the soul are two different things. The mere knowledge of truth is not enough. We may possess this, but the tenor of our thoughts may not be changed. The heart must be converted and sanctified.COL 97.3
The man who attempts to keep the commandments of God from a sense of obligation merely—because he is required to do so—will never enter into the joy of obedience. He does not obey. When the requirements of God are accounted a burden because they cut across human inclination, we may know that the life is not a Christian life. True obedience is the outworking of a principle within. It springs from the love of righteousness, the love of the law of God. The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer. This will lead us to do right because it is right—because right doing is pleasing to God.COL 98.1
The great truth of the conversion of the heart by the Holy Spirit is presented in Christ’s words to Nicodemus: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born from above, he can not see the kingdom of God.... That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh and whither it goeth. So is every one that is born of the Spirit.” John 3:3-8, margin.COL 98.2
The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:4-8.COL 98.3
The leaven hidden in the flour works invisibly to bring the whole mass under its leavening process; so the leaven of truth works secretly, silently, steadily, to transform the soul. The natural inclinations are softened and subdued. New thoughts, new feelings, new motives, are implanted. A new standard of character is set up—the life of Christ. The mind is changed; the faculties are roused to action in new lines. Man is not endowed with new faculties, but the faculties he has are sanctified. The conscience is awakened. We are endowed with traits of character that enable us to do service for God.COL 99.1
Often the question arises, Why, then, are there so many, claiming to believe God’s word, in whom there is not seen a reformation in words, in spirit, and in character? Why are there so many who cannot bear opposition to their purposes and plans, who manifest an unholy temper, and whose words are harsh, overbearing, and passionate? There is seen in their lives the same love of self, the same selfish indulgence, the same temper and hasty speech, that is seen in the life of the worldling. There is the same sensitive pride, the same yielding to natural inclination, the same perversity of character, as if the truth were wholly unknown to them. The reason is that they are not converted. They have not hidden the leaven of truth in the heart. It has not had opportunity to do its work. Their natural and cultivated tendencies to evil have not been submitted to its transforming power. Their lives reveal the absence of the grace of Christ, an unbelief in His power to transform the character.COL 100.1
“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17. The Scriptures are the great agency in the transformation of character. Christ prayed, “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” John 17:17. If studied and obeyed, the word of God works in the heart, subduing every unholy attribute. The Holy Spirit comes to convict of sin, and the faith that springs up in the heart works by love to Christ, conforming us in body, soul, and spirit to His own image. Then God can use us to do His will. The power given us works from within outwardly, leading us to communicate to others the truth that has been communicated to us.COL 100.2
The truths of the word of God meet man’s great practical necessity—the conversion of the soul through faith. These grand principles are not to be thought too pure and holy to be brought into the daily life. They are truths which reach to heaven and compass eternity, yet their vital influence is to be woven into human experience. They are to permeate all the great things and all the little things of life.COL 101.1
Received into the heart, the leaven of truth will regulate the desires, purify the thoughts, and sweeten the disposition. It quickens the faculties of the mind and the energies of the soul. It enlarges the capacity for feeling, for loving.COL 101.2
The world regards as a mystery the man who is imbued with this principle. The selfish, money-loving man lives only to secure for himself the riches, honors, and pleasures of this world. He loses the eternal world from his reckoning. But with the follower of Christ these things will not be all-absorbing. For Christ’s sake he will labor and deny self, that he may aid in the great work of saving souls who are without Christ and without hope in the world. Such a man the world cannot understand; for he is keeping in view eternal realities. The love of Christ with its redeeming power has come into the heart. This love masters every other motive, and raises its possessor above the corrupting influence of the world.COL 101.3
The word of God is to have a sanctifying effect on our association with every member of the human family. The leaven of truth will not produce the spirit of rivalry, the love of ambition, the desire to be first. True, heaven-born love is not selfish and changeable. It is not dependent on human praise. The heart of him who receives the grace of God overflows with love for God and for those for whom Christ died. Self is not struggling for recognition. He does not love others because they love and please him, because they appreciate his merits, but because they are Christ’s purchased possession. If his motives, words, or actions are misunderstood or misrepresented, he takes no offense, but pursues the even tenor of his way. He is kind and thoughtful, humble in his opinion of himself, yet full of hope, always trusting in the mercy and love of God.COL 102.1
The apostle exhorts us, “As He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:15, 16. The grace of Christ is to control the temper and the voice. Its working will be seen in politeness and tender regard shown by brother for brother, in kind, encouraging words. An angel presence is in the home. The life breathes a sweet perfume, which ascends to God as holy incense. Love is manifested in kindness, gentleness, forbearance, and long-suffering.COL 102.2
The countenance is changed. Christ abiding in the heart shines out in the faces of those who love Him and keep His commandments. Truth is written there. The sweet peace of heaven is revealed. There is expressed a habitual gentleness, a more than human love.COL 102.3
The leaven of truth works a change in the whole man, making the coarse refined, the rough gentle, the selfish generous. By it the impure are cleansed, washed in the blood of the Lamb. Through its life-giving power it brings all there is of mind and soul and strength into harmony with the divine life. Man with his human nature becomes a partaker of divinity. Christ is honored in excellence and perfection of character. As these changes are effected, angels break forth in rapturous song, and God and Christ rejoice over souls fashioned after the divine similitude.Ye Shall Receive Power
Leaven in Our Heart, January 10
YRP 18.1
And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Luke 13:20, 21.Luke 13:23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 248, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, par. 5
The question was asked Christ, “Are there few that be saved?” [Luke 13:23.] The Saviour’s reply to the inquiry is of highest consequence to us. “Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction; and many there be that go in thereat. Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto life; and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]Luke 13:23-24
In Heavenly Places
Pressing Against the Current, September 13
HP 263.1
Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Luke 13:23, 24.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 696—Testimony or “Social” Meetings
9MR 92.2
Aid to Unity—I spoke to our people in the afternoon from Luke 13:23, 24. I had freedom in speaking and the people seemed to listen with deep interest. Afterward there was a social meeting. Elder [J.G.] Matteson interpreted to W. C. White and myself the testimonies borne. We could but say, One Lord, one faith, one baptism. The brethren in Sweden have the very same experience as our brethren in America. This was a good meeting.—Manuscript 65, 1886, p. 5. (“Second Visit to Sweden,” June 19, 1886.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 43, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 43, 1886, par. 9
We must not be discouraged if there are only a few that believe the present truth. It is not the great numbers that follow Christ. In answer to the question, “Are there few that be saved?” the reply was, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:23, 24. “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:14. Now we see only a few who regard the commandments of God, and those who will not lift the cross after having a knowledge of their duty will finally meet their destruction. We should not turn to the right or to the left, for if we do we shall find a dish of fables in place of truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1886, par. 1
Luke 13:23, 24. “Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” When we read that many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able, then we want to understand what we shall do in order to succeed. This to us is a mournful statement, that there are those who will fail to enter in at the strait gate because they only seek to enter in, and do not strive. And to those who will make a success in the work of overcoming, it will require a great effort on their part. They must realize the burden of the work that is resting upon them individually.4LtMs, Ms 5, 1886, par. 4
There are voices that we shall hear all around us to divert us away from the truth, but if we have an eye single to the glory of God and are striving to do His will, we shall hear His voice and know it is the voice of the Good Shepherd. It is very important that we understand the voice that speaks to us. We hear the voice of Christ here that says, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate, for many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] We must live a life of constant watchfulness and of constant prayer to God. We must purify our souls by obeying the truth. We must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 65, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 65, 1886, par. 13
I spoke to our people in the afternoon from Luke 13:23, 24. I had freedom in speaking, and the people seemed to listen with deep interest. Afterward there was a social meeting. Elder Matteson interpreted to W. C. White and myself the testimonies borne. We could but say, One Lord, one faith, one baptism. The brethren in Sweden have the very same experience as our brethren in America. This was a good meeting. Brother Oyen spoke in the evening.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 19, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 19, 1888, par. 1
“Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? and he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:23, 24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 90, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 90, 1897, par. 4
“Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:23, 24.] “Then said Jesus unto them, Yet a little while am I with you, 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.” “I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.” [John 7:33, 34; 8:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 50, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 12
This is an important question. Upon it hangs the eternal welfare of every soul. The cross stands where two roads diverge. One is the path of obedience leading to heaven. The other leads into the broad road, where man can easily go with his burden of sin and corruption, but it leads to perdition. In His sermon on the mount, Christ exhorts His hearers, “Therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction: and many there be that go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:12-14.] And another time one came to Christ and said, “Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many I say unto you shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:23, 24.]Luke 13:23-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 74, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 74, 1903, par. 4
We need to watch and pray, lest we enter into temptation. On one occasion, as Christ was returning to Jerusalem from a missionary tour, He was speaking to those with Him about the personal salvation that all must have who enter the kingdom of heaven. His words were becoming decidedly personal and very pointed, and one present, wishing to change the subject, said, “Lord, are there few that be saved?” Then He said, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us; and He shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence you are; then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets. But He shall say, I tell you I know not whence ye are; depart from Me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.” [Luke 13:23-30.]18LtMs, Lt 74, 1903, par. 5
In the great day of God, to many who make the entreaty, “Lord, Lord, open unto us,” the answer will come, “I know not whence you are, depart from Me.” [Verses 25, 27.]Luke 13:24
Christ Triumphant
Fervent, Importunate Prayer Will Bring Divine Help, July 15
CTr 203.1
Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Luke 13:24.Selected Messages Book 2
Learned Lessons from the Months of Suffering
2SM 243.4
What is our path to heaven? Is it a road with every inviting convenience? No, it is a path that is narrow and apparently inconvenient; it is a path of conflict, of trial, of tribulation and suffering. Our Captain, Jesus Christ, has hid nothing from us in regard to the battles we are to fight. He opens the map before us and shows us the way. “Strive,” He says, “to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24). “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat” (Matthew 7:13). “In the world ye shall have tribulation” (John 16:33). The apostle echoes the words of Christ, “We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom” (Acts 14:22). Well, is it the discouraging aspect we are to keep before the mind’s eye? ...Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
The Will of God Concerning Us
8T 65.1
Man is allotted a part in this great struggle for everlasting life; he must respond to the working of the Holy Spirit. It will require a struggle to break through the powers of darkness, and the Spirit works in him to accomplish this. But man is no passive being, to be saved in indolence. He is called upon to strain every muscle and exercise every faculty in the struggle for immortality; yet it is God that supplies the efficiency. No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us: “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Luke 13:24; Matthew 7:13, 14.That I May Know Him
Feeble Efforts Not Enough, September 20
TMK 269.2
When we are burdened, when we are pressed with temptation, when the feelings and desires of the natural heart are contending for the victory, we should offer up fervent, importunate prayer to our heavenly Father in the name of Christ, and this will bring Jesus to our help, so that through His all-powerful and efficacious name we may gain the victory and banish Satan from our side. But we should not flatter ourselves that we are safe while we make but feeble efforts in our own behalf.... “Strive to enter in at the strait gate” (Luke 13:24).That I May Know Him
The Challenge of the Difficult, October 25
TMK 304.1
Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Luke 13:24.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Strive to enter in at the strait gate.”—Luke 13:24.
“Strive to enter in at the strait gate.”—Luke 13:24.
MB 143.1
But many are attracted by the beauty of Christ and the glory of heaven, who yet shrink from the conditions by which alone these can become their own. There are many in the broad way who are not fully satisfied with the path in which they walk. They long to break from the slavery of sin, and in their own strength they seek to make a stand against their sinful practices. They look toward the narrow way and the strait gate; but selfish pleasure, love of the world, pride, unsanctified ambition, place a barrier between them and the Saviour. To renounce their own will, their chosen objects of affection or pursuit, requires a sacrifice at which they hesitate and falter and turn back. Many “will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24. They desire the good, they make some effort to obtain it; but they do not choose it; they have not a settled purpose to secure it at the cost of all things.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Two Ways
1TT 32.1
At the Conference at Battle Creek, May 27, 1856, I was shown in vision some things that concern the church generally. The glory and majesty of God were made to pass before me. Said the angel: “He is terrible in His majesty, yet ye realize it not; terrible in His anger, yet ye offend Him daily. ‘Strive to enter in at the strait gate;’ ‘for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.’” Luke 13:24; Matthew 7:13, 14. These roads are distinct, separate, in opposite directions. One leads to eternal life, the other to eternal death. I saw the distinction between these roads, also the distinction between the companies traveling them. The roads are opposite; one is broad and smooth, the other narrow and rugged. So the parties that travel them are opposite in character, in life, in dress, and in conversation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 9, 1861
1LtMs, Lt 9, 1861, par. 17
Everlasting life is worth a lifelong, persevering, untiring effort. Unless we strive to enter in at the strait gate we shall remain this side. “Strive to enter in at the straight gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 6, 1869
2LtMs, Lt 6, 1869, par. 12
You are hopeful and ardent and rush on, get off your guard and I fear will not stand your proving in the position you now occupy. Important interests are now at stake. Let this be your motto,—Deny self, bear the cross, discipline yourself, educate yourself to have firm principles. Religion is only adopted by you. It is not made the rule of your life. You shun the effort required to be a Christian; the discipline is irksome, distasteful to you. Constant watchfulness and close application is required to be a true Christian. You love to be free from care. I fear you will not discipline your mind to take care, where you are, but will be off and on, hit or miss, just as it is most pleasing to you. Duty first, then pleasure, has never been your motto. With you, it has been pleasure first, then let the duties be neglected or come last. You have dilly-dallied away most of your time. I lay open these plain things before you because I have no hope of your doing better till you see yourself and make superhuman efforts to reform. “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 7, 1873
2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, par. 45
It is a beautiful day. We took a short ride. The air seems invigorating. We decided to attend meeting. My husband talked part of the time and myself the remaining time left me. His text was, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24. My husband spoke with freedom and strength. The Lord sustained him. I followed—talked twenty minutes. Some remarks were made in reference to some who desired baptism.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
God’s Ideal for Man
CT 366.1
To man is allotted a part in this great struggle for everlasting life—he must respond to the working of the Holy Spirit. It will require a struggle to break through the powers of darkness, and the Spirit works in him to accomplish this. But man is no passive being, to be saved in indolence. He is called upon to strain every muscle and exercise every faculty in the struggle for immortality, yet it is God that supplies the efficiency. No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24. “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13, 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 8, 1873
2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, par. 7
Brother Butler spoke in forenoon. We attended meeting. Took no part till afternoon. I spoke from this text, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate,” etc. [Luke 13:24.] I had freedom. I then called for those who desired to be Christians and those who were backsliders to come forward and show their desire, and we would pray for them. Between thirty and forty responded—middle-aged people and youth. There seemed to be really earnest seekers for salvation. I entreated the people by earnest appeals to come to Christ. We then stepped from the stand and prayed for those who had come forward. Brother Nicola, Brother Butler, and myself prayed. It was an interesting occasion.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1b, 1873
2LtMs, Lt 1b, 1873, par. 4
But do not feel that you are in no danger while you make no special efforts yourself. Said Christ, “Strive”—agonize—“to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24. We must feel our continual dependence upon God, and the great weakness of our own wisdom and our own judgment and strength, and then depend wholly upon Him who has conquered the foe in our behalf, because He pitied our weakness and knew we should be overcome and perish if He did not come to our help. His divinity and assumed humanity combined qualified Him to reach man with His human arm, while with His divine arm He grasps the Infinite and elevates and ennobles man, making it possible that man may overcome the degradation of the fall through His name.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 4, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 4, 1885, par. 7
If we allow envy and hatred in our hearts, Christ cannot abide there. We should every one seek to build one another up in the most holy faith, and individually we should look to Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. Then you can lead others to the Saviour. Christ has said, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat.” [Luke 13:24; Matthew 7:13.] We must urge our way through the crowd that is making their way in the broad road; we must be firm to obey God. We must purify our souls by obeying the truth; and the nearer we get to Jesus, the more we reflect upon His lovely character, the more we will reflect His divine image upon those around us. When others see that you are determined to be right yourselves, they will see that the truth of God has an influence upon your life and character; then you will be a bright light to the world. I beg of you to seek most earnestly to be a help to others, complying with the conditions in the Word of God, “Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 13, 1884
4LtMs, Ms 13, 1884, par. 10
Without giving “all diligence” to make step after step upward to God above the ladder, there is no gaining ground in peace and grace and the work of holiness. “Strive,” said Jesus, “to enter in at the strait gate.” Luke 13:24. The way of the believer is marked out by God above the ladder. All his endeavors will be in vain if he has not virtue of character, a practical knowledge of Christ through obedience to all His requirements. Those who have faith must be careful to show their faith by their works.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 27, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 27, 1890, par. 14
Confess your sins to one another and to God. Arthur, covenant before God and angels that the past of your life shall suffice to have wrought the will of Satan. May the Lord bring you both to a position where you will humbly seek Him with the whole heart, is my earnest desire and prayer. If you do seek Him with all the heart, might, mind, and strength, He will be found of you. The invitation is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” [Isaiah 1:18.] Confess and forsake your sins, and appropriate to yourselves the promises of pardon, and of Christ’s righteousness. This alone will be accepted of God. The proclamation is made to you who are sinners in His sight, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] Strive, for the grasp of the destroyer is upon you, and if you do not make determined effort, he will put his own seal upon you. Strive, for the foe is on the right hand and on the left, before you, behind you, and he must be resisted and overcome or he will overcome you. Strive, for there is a crown of immortality to win. Strive, in the strength of Christ, not in your own strength. Put away your avariciousness. It is a terrible thing to cling to your own ways, to your own will, and risk the consequences. Arthur, I call upon you to be reconciled to God. Your only hope is to fall upon the Rock and to be broken.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 7, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 7, 1892, par. 12
What is our path to heaven? Is it a road with every inviting convenience? No, it is a path that is narrow and apparently inconvenient; it is a path of conflict, of trial, of tribulation and suffering. Our Captain, Jesus Christ, has hid nothing from us in regard to the battles we are to fight. He opens the map before us and shows us the way. “Strive,” He says, “to enter in at the straight gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” [Matthew 7:13.] “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” John 16:33. The apostle echoes the words of Christ, “Through much tribulation we must enter the kingdom.” Acts 14:22. Well, is it the discouraging aspect we are to keep before the mind’s eye?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16f, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16f, 1892, par. 22
We must as a people rise up from our formality. We must enter the strait gate. Satan has placed his active agents along the passage to dispute the way of every soul. Christ has encouraged His followers to not be intimidated; press on; urge your way through. “Strive to enter in at the strait gate, for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] Darling cherished idols will have to be given up and the sins that have been indulged [in], even if it comes as close as plucking out of the right eye, or cutting off the right arm. Agonize! Force your way through the very armies of hell that oppose your passage.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1891, par. 46
It cannot be said that the majority of those who claim to be Christians are truly spiritual-minded. As true today, as when uttered by the lips of the Great Teacher, are the words: “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “For wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 65, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 65, 1894, par. 2
When we are burdened, when we are pressed with temptation, when the feelings and desires of the natural heart are contending for the victory, we should offer up fervent, importunate prayer to our heavenly Father in the name of Christ, and this will bring Jesus to our help, so that through His all-powerful, and efficacious name, we may gain the victory and vanquish Satan from our side. But we should not flatter ourselves that we are safe while we make but feeble efforts in our own behalf. The words of Christ should have weight with us, “Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate; for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1375—Experience of Golden Calf an Example for God’s People Today; Danger in Pleasure Seeking, Especially Among Youth; Development of a Christian Character
19MR 118.3
No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” [Luke 13:24]. “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” [Matthew 7:13, 14].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 16, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, par. 29
Man is allotted a part in this great struggle for everlasting life; he must respond to the working of the Holy Spirit. It will require a struggle to break through the powers of darkness, and the Spirit works in him to accomplish this. But man is no passive being, to be saved in indolence. He is called upon to strain every muscle and exercise every faculty in the struggle for immortality; yet it is God that supplies the efficiency. No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat; because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:13, 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 106a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 106a, 1896, par. 42
Whenever we advance a step toward Jesus, He is ready to respond. We are sanctified through the truth, not through a mere assenting to theory, but through a heart-reception of the Word of God. The truth sanctifies the entire man. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] “Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 14, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 14, 1900, par. 23
Christ says to His followers, “Strive (agonize) to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in” with all their worldly treasures, “and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat. Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 85, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 85, 1908, par. 12
We cannot fail to see that the end of the world is soon to come. Satan is working upon the minds of men and women, and many seem filled with a desire for amusement and excitement. As it was in the days of Noah, every kind of evil is on the increase. Divorce and marriage is the order of the time. At such a time as this, the people who are seeking to keep the commandments of God should look for retired places away from the cities. Some must remain in the cities to give the last note of warning, but this will become more and more dangerous to do. Yet the truth for today must come to the world—truth as spoken by the lips of Him who understood the end from the beginning; “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat; because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 183, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 183, 1909, par. 8
The days of Noah were filled with violence and crimes that I would not trace upon paper, devised by satanic agencies. The Lord requires of those who have had the light to walk in the light as Christ is in the light, lest darkness shall come upon us. My soul is so wrought up with intense interest that we who claim to believe the truth shall do honor to the precious Saviour to live the truth, to increase daily in spirituality. Truth alone, as it is in Jesus, will reflect the true light. Christ speaks in His Word, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” “For wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” Luke 13:24; Matthew 7:13.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Greatest Teacher, August 2
JNN 228.6
To human beings is allotted a part in this great struggle for everlasting life—he must respond to the working of the Holy Spirit. It will require a struggle to break through the powers of darkness, and the Spirit works in him to accomplish this. But humans are no passive beings, to be saved in indolence. Men and women are called upon to strain every muscle and exercise every faculty in the struggle for immortality, yet it is God that supplies the efficiency. No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24).—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 365, 366.Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
Love of the Things That Are in the World
19MR 247.3
It cannot be said that the majority of those who claim to be Christians are truly spiritual-minded. As true today as when uttered by the lips of the great Teacher, are the words: “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” [Luke 13:24]. “For wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” [Matthew 7:13, 14].Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1411—The Ladder to Heaven
19MR 340.2
Without giving “all diligence” to make step after step upward to God above the ladder, there is no gaining ground in peace and grace and the work of holiness. “Strive,” said Jesus, “to enter in at the strait gate” (Luke 13:24). The way of the believer is marked out by God above the ladder. All his endeavors will be in vain if he has not virtue of character, a practical knowledge of Christ through obedience to all His requirements. Those who have faith must be careful to show their faith by their works.Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
Search the Scriptures
3MR 91.1
We must not be discouraged if there are only a few that believe the present truth. It is not the great numbers that follow Christ. In answer to the question, “Are there few that be saved?” The reply was, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24. “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matthew 7:14. Now we see only a few who regard the commandments of God, and those who will not lift the cross after having a knowledge of their duty will finally meet their destruction. We should not turn to the right or to the left, for if we do we shall find a dish of fables in place of truth.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 46—Human Relations
2MCP 435.3
Counsel to a Wife Regarding Personal Relationships—I am instructed by the Lord to say to you, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24). The Lord asks you to keep close to Him. Speak as He would speak, and act as He would act. Do not let anyone prejudice your mind and lead you to speak unadvisedly. Keep your own soul pure and clear and your thoughts elevated and sanctified. Do not praise or exalt people to their injury, neither be hasty to condemn those whom you think are not acting wisely. Let all see that you love Jesus and trust in Him. Give your husband and your believing and unbelieving friends evidence that you desire them to see the beauty of truth. But do not show that painful, worrying anxiety which often spoils a good work.—Letter 145, 1900.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 65—Indolence
2MCP 605.3
No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able” (Luke 13:24). “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13, 14).—Manuscript 16, 1896.Our High Calling
Virtue and Knowledge, March 3
OHC 68.3
Without giving “all diligence” to make step after step upward to God above the ladder, there is no gaining ground in peace and grace and the work of holiness. “Strive,” said Jesus, “to enter in at the strait gate.” Luke 13:24. The way of the believer is marked out by God above the ladder. All his endeavors will be in vain if he has not virtue of character, a practical knowledge of Christ through obedience to all His requirements. Those who have faith must be careful to show their faith by their works....Luke 13:24-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 154, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 154, 1898, par. 7
“But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence you are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing to teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west and from the north and from the south and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.” [Luke 13:24-30.]Luke 13:24-33
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 37, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 37, 1899, par. 6
Christ warned these men, saying, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the Master of the house is risen up, and has shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us, and he shall answer and say unto you, I know ye not whence ye are: then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And behold, there are last which shall be first, and the first which shall be last.” [Luke 13:24-30.]14LtMs, Ms 37, 1899, par. 7
These words amazed the scribes and Pharisees. God had given them every facility. In His providence He had bestowed upon them great light, and they had been regarded as the first, the only pious people on the face of the earth. At these words of Christ, they determined to get rid of Him, and sought to accomplish the work by intimidating Him. “The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying unto him, Get thee out and depart hence; for Herod will kill thee. And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected. Nevertheless I must walk today, and tomorrow, and the day following: for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem.” [Verses 31-33.]Luke 13:25
Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Called to the Wedding Feast (Sermon by Ellen G. White In Washington, Township, Iowa, Cir. 1874.)
1SAT 8.2
The great eternal Father has prepared a marriage feast for His Son. Will we give heed to His servants who have been and are being sent forth to proclaim unto us the solemn invitation? Or shall we make light of it? Oh, why refuse to make ready for the marriage of the Son of God? There is room for all who will accept the invitation. None can say [that] those things were not duly represented. Remember, when the good man returns, those who are ready will go in to the feast and the door will be shut, and there will be no further entrance, for we read that when “the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door” (Luke 13:25), then those who would find admittance will hear the answer, “I know you not...; depart from Me.”Luke 13:25-27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 8, 1874
2LtMs, Ms 8, 1874, par. 17
The great eternal Father has prepared a marriage feast for His Son. Will we give heed to His servants who have been and are being sent forth to proclaim unto us the solemn invitation? or shall we make light of it? Oh, why refuse to make ready for the marriage of the Son of God? There is room for all who will accept the invitation. None can say those things were not duly represented. Remember, when the good man returns, those who are ready will go in to the feast, and the door will be shut and there will be no further entrance; for we read that when “the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door” (Luke 13:25), then those who would find admittance will hear the answer, “I know you not ...; depart from Me.” [Verse 27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 132, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 132, 1903, par. 22
Where shall we be before the thousand generations mentioned in this Scripture are ended? Our fates will have been decided for eternity. We shall either have been pronounced worthy of a home in the everlasting kingdom of God, or we shall have received sentence of eternal death. Those who have been true and faithful to their covenant with God, those who, remembering Calvary, have stood firmly on the side of truth, ever striving to honor God, will hear the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] But those who have given God only half-hearted service, allowing their lives to be conformed to the ways and practices of the world, will hear the sad words, “Depart from Me; I know you not.” [Luke 13:25, 27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 26, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 26, 1885, par. 18
Some who claim to love Jesus are deceivers, and all their religion is lip service. It does not transform the character. It does not reveal the inward working of grace. They do not show that they have ever learned in Christ’s school the lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. They do not show by life or character that they are wearing Christ’s yoke or lifting Christ’s burdens. They are not reaching the standard given them in God’s Word, but a human standard. Their life is not pure like Christ’s life. They are not being refined and ennobled by His Spirit. The way of truth they have not known, and they are of that number who will say, “Lord, Lord, open unto us. We have taught in the streets. We have done many wonderful works.” [Matthew 7:21, 22; Luke 13:25, 26.] But Christ will say of them, “I never knew you. Depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity. You were on the side of My great adversary, who transgressed My law. You worked with him to make void the law of God. While you professed to love Me you practiced this deception and led souls away from obedience into the path of transgression. Your claims to love Me were the putting on of the livery of heaven to serve My worst enemy. You identified yourself as among those who were making void My law, and your portion is with the hypocrites and unbelievers.” [Matthew 7:23; Luke 13:27.]Luke 13:26
Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 6—The Loving Watchcare of Jesus
1SM 81.5
Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious, and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets” (Luke 13:26). “Have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” (Matthew 7:22).This Day With God
Heaven Begins Here, February 18
TDG 57.6
Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious, and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, and their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets” (Luke 13:26). “Have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? (Matthew 7:22).—Letter 91, February 18, 1904, to W. C. White.Luke 13:26-27
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 91, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 17
Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” [Luke 13:26.] “Have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” [Matthew 7:22.]19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 18
But Christ says, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” [Luke 13:27.] “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 29—“To Meet the Bridegroom”
COL 412.3
At the final day, many will claim admission to Christ’s kingdom, saying, “We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” But the answer is, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” Luke 13:26; Matthew 7:22; Luke 13:27. In this life they have not entered into fellowship with Christ; therefore they know not the language of heaven, they are strangers to its joy. “What man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:11.Luke 13:27
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 86—Go Teach All Nations
DA 825.4
Divine love has been stirred to its unfathomable depths for the sake of men, and angels marvel to behold in the recipients of so great love a mere surface gratitude. Angels marvel at man’s shallow appreciation of the love of God. Heaven stands indignant at the neglect shown to the souls of men. Would we know how Christ regards it? How would a father and mother feel, did they know that their child, lost in the cold and the snow, had been passed by, and left to perish, by those who might have saved it? Would they not be terribly grieved, wildly indignant? Would they not denounce those murderers with wrath hot as their tears, intense as their love? The sufferings of every man are the sufferings of God’s child, and those who reach out no helping hand to their perishing fellow beings provoke His righteous anger. This is the wrath of the Lamb. To those who claim fellowship with Christ, yet have been indifferent to the needs of their fellow men, He will declare in the great Judgment day, “I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me, all ye workers of iniquity.” Luke 13:27.This Day With God
A Life Like His, July 17
TDG 207.5
The world’s Redeemer is speaking to us; let us hear what He says: “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14). Then those who see the claims of God in His Word and do not obey, but excuse their negligence or willful disregard of God’s requirements, testify by their course of action that they are not embraced in the blessed promise on condition of obedience. They are not the ones who will have a right to the tree of life, but are with the willful transgressors of the law of God to whom Jesus says, “Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity” (Luke 13:27).—Manuscript 15, July 17, 1885, “Influence of Unconsecrated Workers.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 51, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 51, 1886, par. 17
Many of these men claimed to be teachers of the truth; but their labor was not marked with holy endeavor. They had not confidence and boldness toward God. They could not lift up holy hands without wrath and doubting. And the words were pronounced to these sin-polluted souls, “Depart from Me ye workers of iniquity.” [Luke 13:27.] Now is the time to obtain the white robe of character. Now is the time to confess and forsake sin, and come to God with contrition of soul, that your sins may be blotted out and your names retained in the Lamb’s Book of Life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 167, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 167, 1898, par. 28
Time is a precious gift. The probation granted us by God is to be appreciated as an opportunity to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. The Laodicean message applies to all who profess to keep the law of God, and yet are not doers of it. We are not to be selfish in anything. Every phase of the Christian life is to be a representation of the life of Christ. If it is not we shall hear the terrible words, “I know you not.” [Luke 13:27.]Luke 13:34
Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
The Cross Before the Crown
3MR 94.1
Our Saviour has represented His first advent, and the treatment He received, by the parable of the vineyard. “A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.” Luke 20:9. The account is continued in Luke 20:10-17. God first sent His prophets to ancient Israel, but their message was not heeded, and as a last resort He sent His Son, that the hearts of the people might be reached and be turned unto God; but they killed His Son. This was the work of Satan by the hands of those that he has gathered under his banner. Christ was “despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” Isaiah 53:3. What was it that brought such sorrow? It was not on His own account, but for the sins of the people. He realized their condition, and this was the reason that He felt such sorrow as He wept over Jerusalem and uttered the lamentable words, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:34.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 52, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, par. 61
An intensity of feeling overwhelms the man of God. He is so burdened for sinful Israel that he can scarcely give utterance to his thoughts. How similar was his earnestness and burden for sinful Israel to the burden felt by the world’s Redeemer when He wept over Jerusalem, speaking in broken utterances, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem ... how often would I [have] gathered your children together, as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings; but ye would not.” [Luke 13:34.] Again, on the crest of Olivet He beheld the city, and wept over it, saying, “O that thou hadst known, even thou, in this thy day the things that belong unto thy peace.” [Luke 19:42.] Here comes the pause. How hard for Jesus to pass the irrevocable sentence upon the doomed inhabitants of Jerusalem.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 64, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 64, 1897, par. 29
As the world’s Redeemer apparent failure was constantly confronting Christ. From His birth He contended with poverty. He, the Majesty of heaven, the messenger of mercy to our world, in His own estimation seemed to do so little of that work which He longed to do in uplifting and saving because of the satanic influences that were working in minds and hearts of priests and rulers to oppose His way. “Ye will not come unto me,” He said, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killest the prophets and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye (could not? no) would not.” [Luke 13:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 139, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 139, 1897, par. 21
Jesus wept over obdurate Jerusalem. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem,” He said, “thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathered her chickens under her wings, but ye would not.” [Matthew 23:37; Luke 13:34.] Again He weeps over the devoted city, exclaiming, “O that thou hadst known, even thou in this thy day, the things that belong unto thy peace.” Then with tears in His eyes and quivering lips, He pronounced the irrevocable sentence, “But now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:42.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 71, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 71, 1897, par. 12
“How often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye would not.” [Luke 13:34.] Christ’s representation is a most striking one. He would have gathered her children together as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings. He would have given them protection, they would not have been left defenseless. When the hen sees that her brood is in danger, she calls them under her sheltering wings to protect them. She will resist any enemy that may approach. She will die rather than that those who have fled for protection under her sheltering wings should suffer. This will Christ do for those who fly to Him for refuge. He will gather His children together under His mediatorial wings, and there they will be safe.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 994—An Appeal to Live the Truth and Share It
12MR 319.1
I think of His great sorrow as He wept over Jerusalem, exclaiming, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not” [Luke 13:34]! God forbid that these words shall apply to those who have great light and blessings. In the rejecting of Jerusalem it was because great privileges were abused, which brought the denunciation upon all who lightly regarded the great opportunities and precious light that were entrusted to their keeping. Privileges do not commend us to God, but they commend God to us. No people are saved because they have great light and special advantages, for these high and heavenly favors only increase their responsibility.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Strict Integrity
1TT 566.2
These two men alike had the opportunities and privileges of the continual lessons and example of Christ to correct their sinful traits of character. While they heard His withering rebukes and denunciations against hypocrisy and corruption, they saw that those so terribly denounced were the objects of solicitous and unwearied labor for their reformation. The Saviour wept because of their darkness and error. He yearned over them with unbounded compassion and love, exclaiming to Jerusalem: “How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!” Luke 13:34.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 55, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 55, 1886, par. 4
I think of His great sorrow as He wept over Jerusalem, exclaiming, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not” [Luke 13:34]! God forbid that these words shall apply to those who have great light and blessings. In the rejecting of Jerusalem, it was because great privileges were abused which brought the denunciation upon all who lightly regarded the great opportunities and precious light that were entrusted to their keeping. Privileges do not commend us to God, but they commend God to us. No people are saved because they have great light and special advantages, for these high and heavenly favors only increase their responsibility.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 44, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 44, 1886, par. 4
Christ was “despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” Isaiah 53:3. What was it that brought such sorrow? It was not on His own account, but for the sins of the people. He realized their condition, and this was the reason that He felt such sorrow as He wept over Jerusalem and uttered the lamentable words, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:34.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 87, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 87, 1886, par. 4
All that God has, through the prophets, spoken and written in regard to the future will be fulfilled. God will have a people, a chosen people from all nations, all tongues, in all parts of the habitable world. As I look over these great cities, I call to mind Christ’s weeping over Jerusalem, exclaiming, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye would not.” [Luke 13:34.] I felt deep heart yearning for the souls for whom Christ had died who knew not the things that made for their peace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 125, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 125, 1886, par. 6
The Saviour is speaking to His people, “Be zealous therefore, and repent.” Revelation 3:19. It is not ministers whom you have slighted; it is not the warnings of men that you have rejected; it is not My delegated prophets that you have refused to hear; but your Redeemer, your only hope. If ye are destroyed, it [is] yourselves alone that are responsible. Ye will not come to Me that ye might have life. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, ... how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings,” Luke 13:34. But ye could not? No; “and ye would not!” Luke 13:34. I desired to save you, but ye would not be doers of My Word. The arm strong to save, is also strong to punish.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 9, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 9, 1893, par. 21
“And when he came near he beheld the city and wept over it, saying, O that thou hadst known, even thou in this thy day, the things that belong unto thy peace! But now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:41, 42.] Why did not the guilty nation know? Because they could not? No, because they would not. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, (and ye could not, no,) and ye would not!” [Luke 13:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 85, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 85, 1894, par. 9
An intensity of feeling overwhelms the man of God. He is so burdened for sinful Israel that he can scarcely give utterance to his thoughts. How similar was his earnestness and burden for sinful Israel to the burden felt by the world’s Redeemer when He wept over Jerusalem, speaking in broken utterances, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, ... how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen gathereth her brood under her wing but ye would not.” [Luke 13:34.]Luke 13:34-35
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 18—“Go Into the Highways and Hedges”
COL 237.1
Every time you refuse to listen to the message of mercy, you strengthen yourself in unbelief. Every time you fail to open the door of your heart to Christ, you become more and more unwilling to listen to the voice of Him that speaketh. You diminish your chance of responding to the last appeal of mercy. Let it not be written of you, as of ancient Israel, “Ephraim is joined to idols; let him alone.” Hosea 4:17. Let not Christ weep over you as He wept over Jerusalem, saying, “How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:34, 35.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“It fell not; for it was founded upon the rock.”—Matthew 7:25, R. V.
MB 151.2
But today mercy pleads with the sinner. “As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die?” Ezekiel 33:11. The voice that speaks to the impenitent today is the voice of Him who in heart anguish exclaimed as He beheld the city of His love: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killeth the prophets, and stoneth them that are sent unto her! how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her own brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:34, 35 , R.V. In Jerusalem, Jesus beheld a symbol of the world that had rejected and despised His grace. He was weeping, O stubborn heart, for you! Even when Jesus’ tears were shed upon the mount, Jerusalem might yet have repented, and escaped her doom. For a little space the Gift of heaven still waited her acceptance. So, O heart, to you Christ is still speaking in accents of love: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” “Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Revelation 3:20; 2 Corinthians 6:2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 128, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 128, 1899, par. 11
The grace that bringeth salvation would no longer be heard in the city. This was the cause of the Saviour’s intense sorrow. He wept not for Himself, He wept for those who had despised His love and rejected His mercy. The tender tears He shed over Jerusalem were the last tears of rejected love. In a voice full of anguish and lamentation and remorse for those who felt no remorse for themselves, He said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together as a hen doth gather her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold your house is left unto you desolate; and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Luke 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 317, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 317, 1905, par. 13
Christ’s denunciations, the woes that He pronounced, were followed by exclamations of the deepest sorrow. He wept over Jerusalem, saying, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate; for verily, I say unto you, Ye shall not see me until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Luke 13:34, 35.] He wept over those whom He knew were deserving of His rebuke.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 317a, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 317a, 1905, par. 14
He who purchased the human family with His own blood charges as done to Himself any insult offered to a child of His. His law is to extend the shield of divine protection over every soul. Christ’s denunciations, the woes that He pronounced, were followed by exclamations of the deepest sorrow. He wept over Jerusalem, saying, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee! How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. Verily, I say unto you, Ye shall not see Me until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is He which cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Luke 13:34, 35.] He wept over those whom He knew were deserving of His rebuke.Luke 13:35
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 24—“Is Not This the Carpenter’s Son?”
DA 241.4
Oh, how Christ longed to open to Israel the precious treasures of the truth! But such was their spiritual blindness that it was impossible to reveal to them the truths relating to His kingdom. They clung to their creed and their useless ceremonies when the truth of Heaven awaited their acceptance. They spent their money for chaff and husks, when the bread of life was within their reach. Why did they not go to the word of God, and search diligently to know whether they were in error? The Old Testament Scriptures stated plainly every detail of Christ’s ministry, and again and again He quoted from the prophets, and declared, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” If they had honestly searched the Scriptures, bringing their theories to the test of God’s word, Jesus need not have wept over their impenitence. He need not have declared, “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:35. They might have been acquainted with the evidence of His Messiahship, and the calamity that laid their proud city in ruins might have been averted. But the minds of the Jews had become narrowed by their unreasoning bigotry. The lessons of Christ revealed their deficiencies of character, and demanded repentance. If they accepted His teachings, their practices must be changed, and their cherished hopes relinquished. In order to be honored by Heaven, they must sacrifice the honor of men. If they obeyed the words of this new rabbi, they must go contrary to the opinions of the great thinkers and teachers of the time.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 24—“Is Not This the Carpenter’s Son?”
HLv 154.2
Christ longed to open to Israel the precious treasures of truth! But they clung to their creed and useless ceremonies. They spent their money for chaff and husks, when the bread of life was within their reach. Again and again Christ quoted from the prophets, and declared, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” If they had honestly searched the Scriptures, bringing their theories to the test of God’s Word, Jesus need not have declared, “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:35. The calamity that laid their proud city in ruins might have been averted.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Luke 13:1-5
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 56, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 56, 1894, par. 1
“There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.” [Luke 13:1.] The disciples thought that these Galileans richly deserved their punishment but they did not venture to express their ideas until they had heard His opinion. The Master had given them decided lessons in reference to their judging other men’s characters and measuring retribution according to their finite judgment. At this time Herod and Pilate were at strife among themselves. The Galileans did not belong to Pilate’s jurisdiction, but because they were Herod’s subjects, he felt like wreaking vengeance upon them.9LtMs, Ms 56, 1894, par. 2
The Jewish people were offering sacrifices at Jerusalem, and the Galileans were engaged also in offering the blood of animals; and Pilate, coming suddenly upon them, slew the Galileans. The Great Teacher answered the question of the disciples saying, “Suppose ye that these Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” [Verses 2, 3.]9LtMs, Ms 56, 1894, par. 8
Jesus continued upon this subject, using for an illustration the eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell, saying, “Think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:4, 5.] It is very natural for human beings to think that great calamities are a sure index of great crimes and enormous sins, but men often make a mistake in thus measuring character. We are not living in the time of retributive judgment. Good and evil are mingled and calamities come upon all. Sometimes men do pass the boundary line beyond God’s protecting care, and then Satan exercises his power upon them, and God does not interpose.