EGW WritingsLuke 15

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 1—Sketch of Experience

2T 20.2

It seems to me that the Lord is giving the erring, the weak and trembling, and even those who have apostatized from the truth, a special call to come fully into the fold. But there are but few in our churches who feel that this is the case. And there are still fewer who stand where they can help such. There are more who stand directly in the way of these poor souls. Very many have an exacting spirit. They require them to come to just such and such terms before they will reach to them the helping hand. Thus they hold them off at arms’ length. They have not learned that they have a special duty to go and search for these lost sheep. They must not wait till these come to them. Read the touching parable of the lost sheep. Luke 15:1-7 : “Then drew near unto Him all the publicans and sinners for to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This Man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And He spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”

Testimony for the Church — No. 15

Sketch of Experience

T15 11.2

It seems to me that the Lord is giving the erring, the weak, the trembling, and even those who apostatized from the truth, an especial call to come fully into the fold. But there are but few in our churches who feel that this is the case. And there are still fewer who stand where they can help such. There are more who stand directly in the way of these poor souls. Very many have an exacting spirit. They require them to come to just such and such terms before they will reach to them the helping hand. Thus they hold them oft at arms’ length. They have not learned that they have an especial duty to go and search for these lost sheep. They must not wait till they come to them. Read the touching parable of the lost sheep. Luke 15:1-7. “Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, this man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, what man of you having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost until he find it? And when he hath found it he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in Heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.”

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 15—“This Man Receiveth Sinners”

COL 185.1

As the “publicans and sinners” gathered about Christ, the rabbis expressed their displeasure. “This man receiveth sinners,” they said, “and eateth with them.”

COL 185.2

By this accusation they insinuated that Christ liked to associate with the sinful and vile, and was insensible to their wickedness. The rabbis had been disappointed in Jesus. Why was it that one who claimed so lofty a character did not mingle with them and follow their methods of teaching? Why did He go about so unpretendingly, working among all classes? If He were a true prophet, they said, He would harmonize with them, and would treat the publicans and sinners with the indifference they deserved. It angered these guardians of society that He with whom they were continually in controversy, yet whose purity of life awed and condemned them, should meet, in such apparent sympathy, with social outcasts. They did not approve of His methods. They regarded themselves as educated, refined, and pre-eminently religious; but Christ’s example laid bare their selfishness.

COL 186.1

It angered them also that those who showed only contempt for the rabbis and who were never seen in the synagogues should flock about Jesus and listen with rapt attention to His words. The scribes and Pharisees felt only condemnation in that pure presence; how was it, then, that publicans and sinners were drawn to Jesus?

COL 186.2

They knew not that the explanation lay in the very words they had uttered as a scornful charge, “This man receiveth sinners.” The souls who came to Jesus felt in His presence that even for them there was escape from the pit of sin. The Pharisees had only scorn and condemnation for them; but Christ greeted them as children of God, estranged indeed from the Father’s house, but not forgotten by the Father’s heart. And their very misery and sin made them only the more the objects of His compassion. The farther they had wandered from Him, the more earnest the longing and the greater the sacrifice for their rescue.

COL 186.3

All this the teachers of Israel might have learned from the sacred scrolls of which it was their pride to be the keepers and expounders. Had not David written—David, who had fallen into deadly sin—“I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Thy servant”? Psalm 119:176. Had not Micah revealed God’s love to the sinner, saying, “Who is a God like unto Thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He retaineth not His anger forever, because He delighteth in mercy”? Micah 7:18.

COL 186.4

Christ did not at this time remind His hearers of the words of Scripture. He appealed to the witness of their own experience. The wide-spreading tablelands on the east of Jordan afforded abundant pasturage for flocks, and through the gorges and over the wooded hills had wandered many a lost sheep, to be searched for and brought back by the shepherd’s care. In the company about Jesus there were shepherds, and also men who had money invested in flocks and herds, and all could appreciate His illustration: “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?”

COL 187.2

In the parable the shepherd goes out to search for one sheep—the very least that can be numbered. So if there had been but one lost soul, Christ would have died for that one.

COL 187.3

The sheep that has strayed from the fold is the most helpless of all creatures. It must be sought for by the shepherd, for it cannot find its way back. So with the soul that has wandered away from God; he is as helpless as the lost sheep, and unless divine love had come to his rescue he could never find his way to God.

COL 187.4

The shepherd who discovers that one of his sheep is missing does not look carelessly upon the flock that is safely housed, and say, “I have ninety and nine, and it will cost me too much trouble to go in search of the straying one. Let him come back, and I will open the door of the sheepfold, and let him in.” No; no sooner does the sheep go astray than the shepherd is filled with grief and anxiety. He counts and recounts the flock. When he is sure that one sheep is lost, he slumbers not. He leaves the ninety and nine within the fold, and goes in search of the straying sheep. The darker and more tempestuous the night and the more perilous the way, the greater is the shepherd’s anxiety and the more earnest his search. He makes every effort to find that one lost sheep.

COL 188.1

With what relief he hears in the distance its first faint cry. Following the sound, he climbs the steepest heights, he goes to the very edge of the precipice, at the risk of his own life. Thus he searches, while the cry, growing fainter, tells him that his sheep is ready to die. At last his effort is rewarded; the lost is found. Then he does not scold it because it has caused him so much trouble. He does not drive it with a whip. He does not even try to lead it home. In his joy he takes the trembling creature upon his shoulders; if it is bruised and wounded, he gathers it in his arms, pressing it close to his bosom, that the warmth of his own heart may give it life. With gratitude that his search has not been in vain, he bears it back to the fold.

COL 188.2

Thank God, He has presented to our imagination no picture of a sorrowful shepherd returning without the sheep. The parable does not speak of failure but of success and joy in the recovery. Here is the divine guarantee that not even one of the straying sheep of God’s fold is overlooked, not one is left unsuccored. Every one that will submit to be ransomed, Christ will rescue from the pit of corruption and from the briers of sin.

COL 188.3

Desponding soul, take courage, even though you have done wickedly. Do not think that perhaps God will pardon your transgressions and permit you to come into His presence. God has made the first advance. While you were in rebellion against Him, He went forth to seek you. With the tender heart of the shepherd He left the ninety and nine and went out into the wilderness to find that which was lost. The soul, bruised and wounded and ready to perish, He encircles in His arms of love and joyfully bears it to the fold of safety.

COL 189.2

When the straying sheep is at last brought home, the shepherd’s gratitude finds expression in melodious songs of rejoicing. He calls upon his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, “Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” So when a wanderer is found by the great Shepherd of the sheep, heaven and earth unite in thanksgiving and rejoicing.

COL 189.3

“Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” You Pharisees, said Christ, regard yourselves as the favorites of heaven. You think yourselves secure in your own righteousness. Know, then, that if you need no repentance, My mission is not to you. These poor souls who feel their poverty and sinfulness, are the very ones whom I have come to rescue. Angels of heaven are interested in these lost ones whom you despise. You complain and sneer when one of these souls joins himself to Me; but know that angels rejoice, and the song of triumph rings through the courts above.

COL 190.1

The rabbis had a saying that there is rejoicing in heaven when one who has sinned against God is destroyed; but Jesus taught that to God the work of destruction is a strange work. That in which all heaven delights is the restoration of God’s own image in the souls whom He has made.

COL 190.2

When one who has wandered far in sin seeks to return to God, he will encounter criticism and distrust. There are those who will doubt whether his repentance is genuine, or will whisper, “He has no stability; I do not believe that he will hold out.” These persons are doing not the work of God but the work of Satan, who is the accuser of the brethren. Through their criticisms the wicked one hopes to discourage that soul, and to drive him still farther from hope and from God. Let the repenting sinner contemplate the rejoicing in heaven over the return of the one that was lost. Let him rest in the love of God and in no case be disheartened by the scorn and suspicion of the Pharisees.

COL 191.2

How many of the wandering ones have you, reader, sought for and brought back to the fold? When you turn from those who seem unpromising and unattractive, do you realize that you are neglecting the souls for whom Christ is seeking? At the very time when you turn from them, they may be in the greatest need of your compassion. In every assembly for worship, there are souls longing for rest and peace. They may appear to be living careless lives, but they are not insensible to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Many among them might be won for Christ.

COL 191.3

If the lost sheep is not brought back to the fold, it wanders until it perishes. And many souls go down to ruin for want of a hand stretched out to save. These erring ones may appear hard and reckless; but if they had received the same advantages that others have had, they might have revealed far more nobility of soul, and greater talent for usefulness. Angels pity these wandering ones. Angels weep, while human eyes are dry and hearts are closed to pity.

COL 192.1

O the lack of deep, soul-touching sympathy for the tempted and the erring! O for more of Christ’s spirit, and for less, far less, of self!

COL 192.2

The Pharisees understood Christ’s parable as a rebuke to them. Instead of accepting their criticism of His work, He had reproved their neglect of the publicans and sinners. He had not done this openly, lest it should close their hearts against Him; but His illustration set before them the very work which God required of them, and which they had failed to do. Had they been true shepherds, these leaders in Israel would have done the work of a shepherd. They would have manifested the mercy and love of Christ, and would have united with Him in His mission. Their refusal to do this had proved their claims of piety to be false. Now many rejected Christ’s reproof; yet to some His words brought conviction. Upon these, after Christ’s ascension to heaven, the Holy Spirit came, and they united with His disciples in the very work outlined in the parable of the lost sheep.

COL 192.3

After giving the parable of the lost sheep Christ spoke another, saying, “What woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?”

COL 192.4

In the East the houses of the poor usually consisted of but one room, often windowless and dark. The room was rarely swept, and a piece of money falling on the floor would be speedily covered by the dust and rubbish. In order that it might be found, even in the daytime, a candle must be lighted, and the house must be swept diligently.

COL 193.1

The wife’s marriage portion usually consisted of pieces of money, which she carefully preserved as her most cherished possession, to be transmitted to her own daughters. The loss of one of these pieces would be regarded as a serious calamity, and its recovery would cause great rejoicing, in which the neighboring women would readily share.

COL 193.2

“When she hath found it,” Christ said, “she calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”

COL 193.3

This parable, like the preceding, sets forth the loss of something which with proper search may be recovered, and that with great joy. But the two parables represent different classes. The lost sheep knows that it is lost. It has left the shepherd and the flock, and it cannot recover itself. It represents those who realize that they are separated from God and who are in a cloud of perplexity, in humiliation, and sorely tempted. The lost coin represents those who are lost in trespasses and sins, but who have no sense of their condition. They are estranged from God, but they know it not. Their souls are in peril, but they are unconscious and unconcerned. In this parable Christ teaches that even those who are indifferent to the claims of God are the objects of His pitying love. They are to be sought for that they may be brought back to God.

COL 194.1

The sheep wandered away from the fold; it was lost in the wilderness or upon the mountains. The piece of silver was lost in the house. It was close at hand, yet it could be recovered only by diligent search.

COL 194.2

This parable has a lesson to families. In the household there is often great carelessness concerning the souls of its members. Among their number may be one who is estranged from God; but how little anxiety is felt lest in the family relationship there be lost one of God’s entrusted gifts.

COL 194.3

The coin, though lying among dust and rubbish, is a piece of silver still. Its owner seeks it because it is of value. So every soul, however degraded by sin, is in God’s sight accounted precious. As the coin bears the image and superscription of the reigning power, so man at his creation bore the image and superscription of God; and though now marred and dim through the influence of sin, the traces of this inscription remain upon every soul. God desires to recover that soul and to retrace upon it His own image in righteousness and holiness.

COL 194.4

The woman in the parable searches diligently for her lost coin. She lights the candle and sweeps the house. She removes everything that might obstruct her search. Though only one piece is lost, she will not cease her efforts until that piece is found. So in the family if one member is lost to God every means should be used for his recovery. On the part of all the others let there be diligent, careful self-examination. Let the life-practice be investigated. See if there is not some mistake, some error in management, by which that soul is confirmed in impenitence.

COL 195.1

If there is in the family one child who is unconscious of his sinful state, parents should not rest. Let the candle be lighted. Search the word of God, and by its light let everything in the home be diligently examined, to see why this child is lost. Let parents search their own hearts, examine their habits and practices. Children are the heritage of the Lord, and we are answerable to Him for our management of His property.

COL 195.2

There are fathers and mothers who long to labor in some foreign mission field; there are many who are active in Christian work outside the home, while their own children are strangers to the Saviour and His love. The work of winning their children for Christ many parents trust to the minister or the Sabbath school teacher, but in doing this they are neglecting their own God-given responsibility. The education and training of their children to be Christians is the highest service that parents can render to God. It is a work that demands patient labor, a lifelong diligent and persevering effort. By a neglect of this trust we prove ourselves unfaithful stewards. No excuse for such neglect will be accepted by God.

COL 196.1

This is true home missionary work, and it is as helpful to those who do it as to those for whom it is done. By our faithful interest for the home circle we are fitting ourselves to work for the members of the Lord’s family, with whom, if loyal to Christ, we shall live through eternal ages. For our brethren and sisters in Christ we are to show the same interest that as members of one family we have for one another.

COL 196.2

And God designs that all this shall fit us to labor for still others. As our sympathies shall broaden and our love increase, we shall find everywhere a work to do. God’s great human household embraces the world, and none of its members are to be passed by with neglect.

COL 196.3

Wherever we may be, there the lost piece of silver awaits our search. Are we seeking for it? Day by day we meet with those who take no interest in religious things; we talk with them, we visit among them; do we show an interest in their spiritual welfare? Do we present Christ to them as the sin-pardoning Saviour? With our own hearts warm with the love of Christ, do we tell them about that love? If we do not, how shall we meet these souls—lost, eternally lost—when with them we stand before the throne of God?

COL 197.1

If you are in communion with Christ, you will place His estimate upon every human being. You will feel for others the same deep love that Christ has felt for you. Then you will be able to win, not drive, to attract, not repulse, those for whom He died. None would ever have been brought back to God if Christ had not made a personal effort for them; and it is by this personal work that we can rescue souls. When you see those who are going down to death, you will not rest in quiet indifference and ease. The greater their sin and the deeper their misery, the more earnest and tender will be your efforts for their recovery. You will discern the need of those who are suffering, who have been sinning against God, and who are oppressed with a burden of guilt. Your heart will go out in sympathy for them, and you will reach out to them a helping hand. In the arms of your faith and love you will bring them to Christ. You will watch over and encourage them, and your sympathy and confidence will make it hard for them to fall from their steadfastness.

COL 197.2

In this work all the angels of heaven are ready to co-operate. All the resources of heaven are at the command of those who are seeking to save the lost. Angels will help you to reach the most careless and the most hardened. And when one is brought back to God, all heaven is made glad; seraphs and cherubs touch their golden harps, and sing praises to God and the Lamb for their mercy and loving-kindness to the children of men.

Christ’s Object Lessons

The Lost Piece of Silver

COL 195.3

But those who have been guilty of neglect are not to despair. The woman whose coin was lost searched until she found it. So in love, faith, and prayer let parents work for their households, until with joy they can come to God saying, “Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me.” Isaiah 8:18.

COL 196.4

The value of a soul, who can estimate? Would you know its worth, go to Gethsemane, and there watch with Christ through those hours of anguish, when He sweat as it were great drops of blood. Look upon the Saviour uplifted on the cross. Hear that despairing cry, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” Mark 15:34. Look upon the wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet. Remember that Christ risked all. For our redemption, heaven itself was imperiled. At the foot of the cross, remembering that for one sinner Christ would have laid down His life, you may estimate the value of a soul.

Christ’s Object Lessons

The Lost Sheep

COL 187.1

These souls whom you despise, said Jesus, are the property of God. By creation and by redemption they are His, and they are of value in His sight. As the shepherd loves his sheep, and cannot rest if even one be missing, so, in an infinitely higher degree, does God love every outcast soul. Men may deny the claim of His love, they may wander from Him, they may choose another master; yet they are God’s, and He longs to recover His own. He says, “As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out My sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.” Ezekiel 34:12.

COL 189.1

It was taught by the Jews that before God’s love is extended to the sinner, he must first repent. In their view, repentance is a work by which men earn the favor of Heaven. And it was this thought that led the Pharisees to exclaim in astonishment and anger, “This man receiveth sinners.” According to their ideas He should permit none to approach Him but those who had repented. But in the parable of the lost sheep, Christ teaches that salvation does not come through our seeking after God but through God’s seeking after us. “There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way.” Romans 3:11, 12. We do not repent in order that God may love us, but He reveals to us His love in order that we may repent.

COL 190.3

The rabbis understood Christ’s parable as applying to the publicans and sinners; but it has also a wider meaning. By the lost sheep Christ represents not only the individual sinner but the one world that has apostatized and has been ruined by sin. This world is but an atom in the vast dominions over which God presides, yet this little fallen world—the one lost sheep—is more precious in His sight than are the ninety and nine that went not astray from the fold. Christ, the loved Commander in the heavenly courts, stooped from His high estate, laid aside the glory that He had with the Father, in order to save the one lost world. For this He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninety and nine that loved Him, and came to this earth, to be “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” (Isaiah 53:5.) God gave Himself in His Son that He might have the joy of receiving back the sheep that was lost.

COL 191.1

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 3:1. And Christ says, “As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (John 17:18)—to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ, ... for His body’s sake, which is the church.” Colossians 1:24. Every soul whom Christ has rescued is called to work in His name for the saving of the lost. This work had been neglected in Israel. Is it not neglected today by those who profess to be Christ’s followers?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 118, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 1

“Then drew near all the publicans and sinners for to hear him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.” [Luke 15:1, 2.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 2

The attitude of the Pharisees toward the publicans and sinners was of such a character that Christ saw that they needed a rebuke. In the place of accepting the criticism of the hard-hearted Pharisees, He laid the rebuke upon the leaders of the Jewish nation for their neglect of the publicans and sinners. This class needed all the compassion and tenderness that could be given them. “He spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors saying unto them, Rejoice with me: for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, That likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Verses 3-7.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 5

When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he does not drive it with a whip. He does not scold it for making him so much trouble. In its frightened, distressed condition, he does not even lead it back. He takes the wandering one upon his shoulder, and if it is bruised and wounded, he takes it in his arms, and gathers it close to his bosom, that his own vitality and the warmth of his own heart may give it life and inspire it with courage. In the place of mourning and pitying himself, he returns home with rejoicing, singing, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which I had lost.” “I say unto you,” Christ said, “That likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” [Verses 6, 7.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 8

By the parable of the lost piece of silver, Christ illustrated the same truth. “Either what woman, having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one of them, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors together saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise I say unto you, There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” [Verses 8-10.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 9

Here is another line of thought. In households there is often great carelessness. The souls of father, mother, children are in need of close, earnest, persevering prayer, and interested labor, lest in their family relations they lose one of God’s entrusted talents. If the soul is unconscious of his sinful state, parents should not rest. Let the life practice be carefully investigated, and see if the lost piece of silver cannot be found. How anxiously the woman who has lost her piece of silver searches for it until she finds it. She lights the candle, and sweeps the house until she finds it. Though it is only one piece, she is persevering; she will not give up. And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, “Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I had lost.” “Likewise I say unto you,” Christ says, “There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” [Verses 9, 10.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 15

He makes use of every resource to find that one lost sheep, and he is relieved when he hears its first faint cry. He climbs the steepest heights at the risk of his life. He goes to the edge of the precipice to see if his lost sheep is there. Thus he continues till the cry, much weaker, tells him that his sheep is ready to die, and after painstaking effort, the lost is found. His joy is too great to be borne all by himself. He must tell his neighbors, and with his sheep on his shoulder or in his arms, he begins to sing, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.” [Verse 6.]

13LtMs, Ms 118, 1898, par. 17

“And the angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; if thou wilt walk in my ways, if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” [Zechariah 3:6, 7.] How many are turning from the lost ones with disdain. I thank God that the medical missionaries are finding the lost sheep. When one of these is recovered, and the cry goes forth, “Rejoice with me for I have found the sheep which was lost,” angels in heaven catch the glad strain from the weary but rejoicing shepherd, and the Lord Himself joins in the anthem of joy and gladness. [Luke 15:6, 7.] The song will be sung:

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 30—Warnings to the Church

2T 218.1

The parable of the lost sheep you do not yet understand. You have not learned the lesson the divine Teacher designed you should. You have been dull scholars. Read the parable in Luke 15: “What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.”

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 23 (1908)

Lt 200, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 200, 1908, par. 11

There are few who understand the parable of the lost sheep, few who have learned the lesson that it teaches. Read this parable in the fifteenth chapter of Luke. The divine Teacher desires that all shall bring the teachings of this story into the daily life.

The Review and Herald

July 16, 1889

RH July 16, 1889, par. 1

“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” In this chapter (Luke 15) Jesus speaks several parables to illustrate the joy that is felt over the recovery of that which was lost. He tells how the woman who had lost one of her ten pieces of silver, sought diligently until she found it, and then called in her neighbors to rejoice with her because she had found that which had been lost. He spoke the parable of the prodigal son, to show us how God regards those who have strayed away, and have returned again to him. He said, “A certain man had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of the country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat; and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself,”—when reason assumed the throne, and he began to consider what he had been doing,—“he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son; make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 16, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 16, 1868, par. 2

Arose feeling very weary, yet we longed for strength to speak to the people. My husband spoke from Luke fifteen in regard to the lost sheep. He spoke with power. We returned to L. Jones’. Brother Pennock and wife took dinner with us at Brother Jones’. In the afternoon I spoke, continuing the subject which had been presented in the forenoon. We felt that the church had failed to seek after the lost sheep and that Isaiah sixty-fifth chapter was applicable to their cases. We both spoke with freedom and the Lord aided us in our message. The congregation felt the force of truth and manifested much feeling.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 12, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 12, 1868, par. 4

Arose somewhat rested at half past four. I attended the morning meeting. Found a large company of brethren assembled. My husband is suffering with severe cold, yet attended the meeting and spoke from (Luke 15): “What man of you, having an hundred sheep,” etc. [Verse 4.] After he had spoken one hour, we returned to Brother Taylor’s. I gave my husband a fomentation which relieved his lungs. I rested a few minutes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 102, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 102, 1894, par. 14

It was because of the murmuring of the Scribes and Pharisees on account of His associating with sinners and publicans that Jesus spoke the parables of the lost sheep, the lost silver, and the prodigal son. [Luke 15.] All these parables are intended to teach us mercy and forgiveness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 186, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 186, 1898, par. 17

Slept longer than usual—until half past three o’clock. Then I wrote quite a little matter upon the parables—(Luke 15), the lost sheep and the lost piece of silver. I spoke in the school chapel. Elder Haskell opened with prayer. The seats were well filled. I spoke to them from (John 6)—Christ is the Bread of Life. The Lord gave me much freedom and I am so much blessed in considering this chapter and how much it means to us.

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.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Practical Suggestions

GW 170.2

Revivals—When the Lord works through human instrumentalities, when men are moved with power from on high, Satan leads his agents to cry, “Fanaticism!” and to warn people not to go to extremes. Let all be careful how they raise this cry; for though there is counterfeit coin, this does not lower the value of that which is genuine. Because there are spurious revivals and spurious conversions, it does not follow that all revivals are to be held in suspicion. Let us not show the contempt manifested by the Pharisees when they said, “This man receiveth sinners.” [Luke 15:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 9, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 21

The scribes and Pharisees were full of self-conceit, of ostentation and of show, and they were disappointed that Christ did not approve of these attributes. They were not deceived in the character of Christ. They saw the contrast between their own impurity and unholiness and the purity and holiness of Christ. In such a kingdom as He would set up, they would find nothing to nourish their pride and flattery. Had Christ fallen in with them and strengthened their high claims to superiority, they could have looked with favor upon Him. But when they saw the publicans and sinners following Him, they were exasperated. They saw these men listening with earnestness to His lessons, and the word went round, “This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.” [Luke 15:2.] This was circulated as a slur upon His character. He was accused of encouraging this class in evil doing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 165, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 165, 1898, par. 16

“And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine, and go after that which is lost until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing, and when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found the sheep which was lost.” [Luke 15:3-6.] See what the Good Shepherd will do when one of His sheep is lost. He goes out into the desert, and searches until He finds it. When it is found, He takes it upon His shoulders, or to His breast of infinite love, and His song of rejoicing reaches the heavenly courts, “I have found my sheep which was lost.” “In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not; and to Zion, Let not thine hand 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 3:16, 17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 419, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, par. 19

“And He spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:3-7.

22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, par. 22

What is the next step in the parable? They call together their friends and neighbors and relate their experience, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found that which I had lost. And the neighbors rejoice. “And I say unto you,” the Saviour declares, “that likewise joy shall be in heaven.” [Verse 7.]

22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, par. 24

“Either what woman having ten pieces of silver,” the Saviour continued, “if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and search diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:8-10.

Lift Him Up

The Lost Sheep a Special Burden, July 14

LHU 209.1

What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? Luke 15:4.

Maranatha

Labor to Win Even One Soul, January 21

Mar 29.1

What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? Luke 15:4.

Radiant Religion

Seeking the Lost, July 11

RRe 194.1

What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. Luke 15:4, 5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 69, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 69, 1893, par. 7

Jesus tells of the shepherd searching in the wilderness for the straying sheep, and the divine joy in the heavenly courts as the sheep are found. The ninety and nine are left, and the search is conscientiously and determinedly and perseveringly carried on through hardships and difficulties until the lost is found; then no words of reproach are uttered, nothing but joy is expressed, and the sheep is safely, lovingly, and bodily carried back with songs of rejoicing. Every one of the neighbors is interestedly enlisted to express their joy, “I have found my sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:4-6.]

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 12—The Good Shepherd

SJ 76.7

“Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:4-7.

SJ 76.9

“I say unto you, That likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7.

The Youth’s Instructor

April 28, 1886

YI April 28, 1886, par. 1

“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons that need no repentance.” Luke 15:4-7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 4, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 4, 1900, par. 15

When Christ was accused by the Jews of eating with publicans and sinners, by the parable of the lost sheep He taught them that those who thus labor for the salvation of souls bring joy and gladness to heavenly beings. “What man of you,” He said, “having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost until he find it. And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which I had lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:4-7.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 46—Instruction to Workers

7T 241.2

“Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:4-10.

Lift Him Up

The Tenderness of the Shepherd, July 25

LHU 220.1

And when he has found [the sheep], he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. Luke 15:5, RSV.

Christian Education

Chapter 19—To Teachers

CE 158.2

His impressive parable of the good shepherd represents the responsibility of every minister and of every Christian who has accepted a position as teacher of children and youth and a teacher of old and young, in opening to them the Scriptures. If one strays from the fold, he is not followed with harsh words and with a whip, but with winning invitations to return. The ninety and nine that had not strayed do not call for the sympathy and tender, pitying love of the shepherd. But the shepherd follows the sheep and lambs that have caused him the greatest anxiety and have engrossed his sympathies. The disinterested, faithful shepherd leaves all the rest of the sheep, and his whole heart and soul and energies are taxed to seek the one that is lost. And then the figure—praise God—the shepherd returns with the sheep, carrying him in his arms, rejoicing at every step; he says, “Rejoice with me for I have found my sheep which was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] I am so thankful we have in the parable, the sheep found. And this is the very lesson the shepherd is to learn,—success in bringing the sheep and lambs back.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 23, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 23, 1894, par. 4

I know that the Lord has been moving upon my son Edson. I also know that the Lord has let His hand, the right hand of His power, lift him up, and make him independent of the help which he ought to have had from those who would have helped him if they had had the love which Jesus has to the sinful and erring. He receives the wandering, straying, lost sheep. He takes him in His arms rejoicing at every step, and exclaiming, “I have found my sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] The heartless, indifferent hardheartedness which has been revealed by those whom God has placed in positions of sacred responsibility and has expected that they would be co-laborers with the tender Shepherd, has led them to drive souls into the snare which Satan has prepared for them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 109, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 109, 1895, par. 14

We have a great many things to learn, and may the Lord help us to learn the lessons which He gave to His disciples, to have the spirit to leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness and go to seek and to save that which was lost. The illustration is: after the lost sheep was found it was not brought back with a whip, with scolding and accusing because it made so much trouble, but it was taken upon the shoulder, the Shepherd saying at every step as He brings back His sheep, “Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” [Luke 15:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 24, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 24, 1895, par. 18

No language can express the love of Jesus Christ for the human soul. Leaving His home on high He came to seek for the lost sheep, and there was joy in heaven when He returned, saying, “I have found the sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] “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 3:17.] Let not your hearts be troubled. Jesus has not forgotten you. He is preparing mansions in the kingdom of glory for every one who will believe on His name. Whosoever cometh to me, He says, I will in no wise cast out. [John 6:37.] Do not lose eternity out of your reckoning. Are you prepared for that life that measures with the life of God? Are you prepared to see the King in His beauty and cast your golden crowns at His feet? “Yet a little while, and he that shall come will [come] and will not tarry.” [Hebrews 10:37.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 17, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 17, 1895, par. 7

Let every one of you consider that your individual self had been thus borne upon Christ’s shoulders. The Sin-bearer carries the befouled sheep; yet so precious is His burden that He rejoices, singing, “I have found my sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] Let not one human being entertain a masterly spirit, a self-righteous, criticizing spirit; for not one sheep that was lost would ever have entered the fold if the compassionate Shepherd had not undertaken the painful search in the desert. The fact that one sheep was lost was enough to awaken the sympathy of the Shepherd, and start Him on His quest. Are you, who have this example before you, co-operating with Him who is seeking to save the lost? Are you co-laborers with Christ? This speck of a world was the scene of the incarnation and suffering of the Son of God. Christ did not go to world’s unfallen, but He came to this world, all seared and marred with the curse. The outlook was not favorable, but most discouraging. Yet, “He shall not fail nor be discouraged until he have set judgment in the earth.” [Isaiah 42:4.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

An Object Lesson

CT 198.2

And then the picture—praise God!—the shepherd returns with the sheep, carrying it in his arms, and rejoicing at every step. “Rejoice with me,” he says, “for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:6. I am so thankful that we have the picture of the sheep found. There is no picture presented before our imagination of a sorrowful shepherd returning without the sheep. This is the lesson that the undershepherds are to learn—success in bringing the sheep and lambs back to the fold.

Sons and Daughters of God

We Are to Work With Christ to Save the Lost, September 27

SD 277.1

And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luke 15:6.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 16—Parable of the Straying Sheep

6T 124.2

The Sin Bearer carries the befouled sheep; yet so precious is His burden that He rejoices, singing: “I have found My sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:6. Let every one of you consider that your individual self has thus been borne upon Christ’s shoulders. Let none entertain a masterly spirit, a self-righteous, criticizing spirit; for not one sheep would ever have entered the fold if the Shepherd had not undertaken the painful search in the desert. The fact that one sheep was lost was enough to awaken the sympathy of the Shepherd and start Him on His quest.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Parable of the Straying Sheep

2TT 407.2

The Sin Bearer carries the befouled sheep, yet so precious is His burden that He rejoices, singing: “I have found My sheep which was lost.” Luke 15:6. Let every one of you consider that your individual self has thus been borne upon Christ’s shoulders. Let none entertain a masterly spirit, a self-righteous, criticizing spirit; for not one sheep would ever have entered the fold if the Shepherd had not undertaken the painful search in the desert. The fact that one sheep was lost was enough to awaken the sympathy of the Shepherd and start Him on His quest.

Radiant Religion

In Labor for the Erring, June 20

RRe 173.1

When he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luke 15:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 34, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 34, 1893, par. 55

But the shepherd follows the sheep and lambs that have caused him the greatest anxiety and have engrossed his sympathies. The disinterested, faithful shepherd leaves all the rest of the sheep, and his whole heart and soul and energies are put to the tax for to seek the one that is lost. And then the figure—praise God—the shepherd returns with the sheep, carrying him in his arms, rejoicing at every step. He says, “Rejoice with me. I have found my sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] I am so thankful we have in the parable the sheep found. And this is the very lesson the shepherd is to learn—the success in bringing the sheep and lambs back.

Lift Him Up

The Good Shepherd, July 6

LHU 201.6

And when the straying one is found, does he command it to follow him? ... No; he lays the exhausted sheep on his shoulder, and with cheerful gratitude that his search has not been in vain, he returns to the fold. His gratitude finds expression in songs of rejoicing. And “when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost” (Luke 15:6).

LHU 201.7

So when the lost sinner is found by the Good Shepherd, heaven and earth unite in rejoicing and thanksgiving. For “joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance” (verse 7) (Gospel Workers, 181, 182).

Lift Him Up

The Lost Sheep, July 11

LHU 206.1

Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luke 15:6.

LHU 206.3

And a still greater demonstration of joy is demanded. Friends and neighbors are called to rejoice with the finder, “for I have found my sheep which was lost.” The finding was the theme of rejoicing; the straying was not dwelt upon; for the joy of finding overbalanced the sorrow of the loss and the care, the perplexity and the peril, incurred in searching for the lost sheep and restoring it to safety. “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance” (Luke 15:7) (Testimonies for the Church 3:99).

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 51—United With the Living Vine

1SM 339.1

The beautiful parable that Christ gave of the one lost sheep, of the shepherd that left the ninety and nine to go in search of that which was lost, illustrates the work of Christ, the sinner’s condition, and the rejoicing of the universe over the salvation of the soul. The shepherd did not look carelessly over the sheep, and say, “I have ninety and nine, and it will cost me too much trouble to go in search of the straying one; let him come back, and I will open the door of the sheepfold that he may come in; but I cannot go after him.” No; no sooner does the sheep go astray than the countenance of the shepherd is filled with grief and anxiety. He counts and recounts the flock, and when he is certain that one sheep is lost, he slumbers not. He leaves the ninety and nine within the fold, and, however dark and tempestuous the night, however perilous and unpleasant the way, however long and tedious the service, he does not weary, he does not falter, until the lost is found. And when it is found, he lays the weary, exhausted sheep on his shoulder, and, with cheerful gratitude that his search has not been in vain, he bears back the wanderer to the fold. His gratitude finds expression in the melodious songs of rejoicing, and he calls upon his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, “Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost” (Luke 15:6). So when a wanderer is found by the Great Shepherd of the sheep, heavenly angels respond to the Shepherd’s note of joy. When the lost is found, heaven and earth unite in thanksgiving and rejoicing. “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance” (Luke 15:7).

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Lost Sheep

1TT 305.2

And a still greater demonstration of joy is demanded. Friends and neighbors are called to rejoice with the finder, “for I have found my sheep which was lost.” The finding was the theme of rejoicing; the straying was not dwelt upon; for the joy of finding overbalanced the sorrow of the loss and the care, the perplexity and the peril, incurred in searching for the lost sheep and restoring it to safety. “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:6, 7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 89, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 89, 1894, par. 4

God has been working in your behalf. I know this for the Lord hath revealed it. But you have need to exercise faith and patience and long-forbearance toward those who are not ready to rejoice over the finding of the lost sheep who is so precious to the true Shepherd. The true Shepherd has given His life for the sheep, and He calls upon all His friends and neighbors to rejoice with Him. He says, “My sheep that was lost is found, my son that was dead is alive again.” [Luke 15:6, 24.] The kingdom and the work of Christ is not after the similitude of the world’s modes and practices. It is [a] dominion of principles originating from the character of God. The prophesies plainly predict that His kingdom is not to be after the order of any earthly government, but is to stand in the world reflecting His sufficiency, completeness, and perfection.

9LtMs, Lt 89, 1894, par. 14

Some will think that it is their special duty to be suspicious of you, and to hinder any advancement you may endeavor to make. It is not in their nature to restore and to build up; but this is ever the work of Jesus. They will not be pleased unless they make the erring feel their sinfulness of the past. But Jesus takes the sheep back to the fold and calls upon His friends and neighbors in heaven and earth to rejoice for, He says, “I have found my sheep that was lost.” [Luke 15:6.] There is more joy in [the] heavenly courts over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety-nine that need no repentance. Jesus is rich in grace. Draw, constantly draw, from Him, for you may have rich supplies.

Christ’s Object Lessons

In Stony Places

COL 46.4

It is not because men receive the word immediately, nor because they rejoice in it, that they fall away. As soon as Matthew heard the Saviour’s call, immediately he rose up, left all, and followed Him. As soon as the divine word comes to our hearts, God desires us to receive it; and it is right to accept it with joy. “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:7. And there is joy in the soul that believes on Christ. But those who in the parable are said to receive the word immediately, do not count the cost. They do not consider what the word of God requires of them. They do not bring it face to face with all their habits of life, and yield themselves fully to its control.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Victory Brings Joy to Heaven, December 14

YRP 357.1

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Luke 15:7.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Tithes and Offerings

1TT 359.4

Those who feel no special pleasure in seeking to be a blessing to others, in working, even at a sacrifice, to do them good, cannot have the spirit of Christ or of heaven; for they have no union with the work of heavenly angels and cannot participate in the bliss that imparts elevated joy to them. Christ has said: “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7. If the joy of angels is to see sinners repent, will it not be the joy of sinners, saved by the blood of Christ, to see others repent and turn to Christ through their instrumentality? In working in harmony with Christ and the holy angels we shall experience a joy that cannot be realized aside from this work.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 15—An Angel Delivers Peter From Prison

TT 81.6

Angels labor untiringly in behalf of those for whom Christ died. “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7. A report is borne to heaven of every effort to dispel darkness and spread abroad the knowledge of Christ.

Radiant Religion

Heavenly Joy over Repentant Sinners, February 1

RRe 34.1

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Luke 15:7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1878

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 55

The parable of the lost sheep is a forcible illustration of the Saviour’s love for the erring. The Shepherd leaves the ninety and nine in the shelter of the fold, while He goes out to search for the one lost, perishing sheep; and when it is found, He places it upon His shoulder and returns with rejoicing. He did not find fault with the straying sheep; He did not say, “Let him go if he will;” but He went forth amid frost and sleet and tempest, to save the one that was lost. And He patiently continued His search until the object of His solicitude was found. Thus are we to treat the erring, wandering one. We should be ready to sacrifice our own ease and comfort when a soul for whom Christ died is in peril. Said Jesus, “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] As joy was manifested at the recovery of the one lost sheep, so will exceeding joy and gratitude be manifested by the true servants of Christ when one soul is saved from death.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 10a, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 10a, 1877, par. 7

The power of God rested upon me and upon the audience. I then called them forward. One hundred and fifty responded to the call. Many were seeking God for the first time. Fervent prayer was offered for these, and opportunity was given them to bear testimony. Many spoke with deep feeling. The quivering lips and tearful eyes evidenced that their hearts were touched. We called to mind the words of our dear Redeemer: “Joy shall be in heaven in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7. And what a sight was this for heaven to look upon! What a sight for the followers of Christ to behold! And what joy should animate the hearts of those who have tasted the love of God and been partakers of the heavenly benefits to witness the youth of ten years, the young men and young women, the middle-aged, and men and women of gray hairs, all united in penitence, in tears and humility seeking Jesus to pardon their sins. If there is joy in heaven, there should certainly be inexpressible joy upon the earth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1880

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 67

In this very manner we are to treat the erring and the wandering. We are to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice. Ease and comfort are not to be considered when a soul for whom Christ died is in peril. Said Christ, “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] As joy was manifested over the recovery of the lost sheep, so will thankfulness and exceeding joy be manifested by the true servants of Christ when one soul is saved from death.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 41, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 41, 1890, par. 66

Those upon whom Satan exercises his power the most decidedly are the ones who awaken the sympathy of the Saviour’s great heart of love. He is ever having the ones gathered in the fold to go out into the wilderness to seek and rescue the lost sheep. He feels the tenderest love for those who are entrapped through the deceiving power of Satan. And when the lost sheep are indeed found by Jesus, what joy and rejoicing there is in the whole universe of heaven! “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 97, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 97, 1892, par. 21

Everything depends upon hearing the voice. If one goes on in his self-presumption and self-confidence, he will attribute the voice to anything or anyone but to Jesus, close his ears, turn from the invitation, and open the door of his heart to the bewitching delusions of Satan, to his own ruin. Satan has triumphed. But the tidings of a soul repentant and humbled and contrite before God, creates joy among the angels of God in heaven. Joyous anthems pour forth from angel voices, “Worthy is the Lamb, who is slain to receive, power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessings.” [Revelation 5:12.] “For there is joy in heaven over one sinner that repented.” [Luke 15:7.]

In Heavenly Places

The Shepherd’s Tender Care, January 19

HP 25.1

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Luke 15:7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 9a, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 9a, 1891, par. 9

Then, my sister, why not put away unbelief? The promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” And then to make assurance doubly sure, the Saviour adds, “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] What you need is faith, living, active faith. Do not go about with a gloomy countenance because affliction is in your home, for this increases the sorrow for yourself and for others. You want to encourage cheerfulness; do not go about as if Jesus were in Joseph’s tomb and a great stone were rolled before the door. This will not have any saving influence upon your friends in their great affliction. In the trial of your faith, show that you know you have a living Saviour: One who is making intercession for you and your loved ones. If they will only come to Jesus, He will receive them. You can show them the way. Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us. He has no pleasure in the death of the sinner, but rather that he should turn from his sins and live. What more positive language could be employed than the following: “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth more than over ninety and nine persons who need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] To make God’s grace our own we must do our allotted part; we must believe in Christ, we must show the grace of Christ in our lives, bearing fruit to the glory of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 33, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 33, 1895, par. 13

In the trial of your faith, show that you know you have a risen Saviour, One who is making intercession for you and your loved ones. If they will only come to Jesus, He will receive them. You can help show them the way, not by desponding, but by encouraging hope, cheerfulness, faith, and perfect confidence in God. Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us. He has no pleasure in the death of a sinner, but rather that he should turn from his sins and live. What more positive language could be employed than the following: “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 43, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 43, 1895, par. 10

There is but one power that can bring us into conformity to the likeness of Christ, that can make us steadfast and keep us constant. It is the grace of God which leads us to obey the law of God, the transcript of the divine character. It is a knowledge of Christ Jesus which we should cultivate to the uttermost of our power, in order that we may be doers of His Word. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him: let him know, that he which converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:19, 20.] Is not this a work that pays? Will we make Jesus glad? Will we cause rejoicing among the angels of God? We can do so by co-operating with God in seeking and saving that which was lost. “There is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, than over the ninety and nine who need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] Shall we not co-operate with heavenly angels in the work of saving fallen humanity?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 107, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 107, 1896, par. 9

It pays us to labor for those for whom Christ has died. Our strength and resources can be expended in no better way. If, by the help of the Spirit of God, we can build a structure which will last through the eternal ages, what a work we have done! Co-operating with God in this work, we can think of Christ’s words, so full of assurance, “But I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] God cares for the human souls to whom He gave His only begotten Son, and we must see all men through the eyes of divine compassion.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 14, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 14, 1899, par. 12

It is the work of the heavenly angels to come close to the tried, the suffering, the tempted ones. They labor long and untiringly to save the souls for whom Christ has died; and when souls appreciate their advantages, appreciate the heavenly assistance sent them, the Holy Spirit’s working in their behalf, when they put their will on the side of Christ’s will, angels bear the tidings heavenward. Returning to the heavenly courts they report their success for the souls for whom they have ministered, and there is rejoicing among the heavenly host. “There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 3, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 3, 1902, par. 3

We must seek, in this place, on this occasion, to bring about a condition of unity, for here is our great error. We do not see and feel the importance of answering that last prayer of Christ, which means so much to us and to those who believe the truth. We may make the truth of none effect by keeping fresh and distinct before us our little differences. The Lord wants us to make a record of a very different character in this respect than we have made in the past. The patient, individual effort to be good and to do good means that we are to make more determined efforts to secure oneness, as Christ prayed might be among His disciples. Shall we answer that prayer? We must leave others just as untrammeled to do their part in the vineyard as we want them to leave us to work out our part in the appointed work. Patient continuance in well-doing will make its mark. Sinners will be converted and bring rejoicing to hearts. “Likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth more than over ninety and nine just persons, which [suppose they] need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 321, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 321, 1905, par. 24

“There is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine just ones that need no repentance,” who are not willing to bestir themselves to come to Christ. [Luke 15:7.]

Lift Him Up

Joy Over One Sinner That Repenteth, July 17

LHU 212.1

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Luke 15:7.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 15—Delivered From Prison

AA 153.3

It is the work of the angels to come close to the tried, the suffering, the tempted. They labor untiringly in behalf of those for whom Christ died. When sinners are led to give themselves to the Saviour, angels bear the tidings heavenward, and there is great rejoicing among the heavenly host. “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7. A report is borne to heaven of every successful effort on our part to dispel the darkness and to spread abroad the knowledge of Christ. As the deed is recounted before the Father, joy thrills through all the heavenly host.

This Day With God

Love Fulfills the Law, December 22

TDG 365.5

Regard yourselves as missionaries, not among heathen, but among your own brethren. It requires a vast amount of time and labor to convince one soul in regard to the truth. How much money has been expended in efforts to turn men and women from sin to righteousness! And when souls are brought into the truth, what takes place in heaven? There is more joy in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine just persons who [think they] need no repentance (see Luke 15:7)....

To Be Like Jesus

Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, Knows Each Sheep, December 1

BLJ 353.1

I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7, NKJV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 51, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 51, 1893, par. 2

The Jews held a feast of in-gathering of the bounteous provisions provided by the Lord in the fruits of the earth; but there was among you something of much greater magnitude to cause heartfelt rejoicing; there were souls brought back from the wilderness by the Shepherd of Israel from their wandering away from God. “There is more joy in the presence of the angels over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine just persons who need no repentance.” [See Luke 15:10, 7.] Whatever blessings God bestows upon human beings, none is of as great value as the soul born again—the name registered in the Lamb’s book of life. The voice of rejoicing and salvation should be in the tabernacle of the righteous whenever we see fresh tokens of His saving grace.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 20, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 20, 1889, par. 2

Said Jesus, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] And again, “I say unto you that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] Will you not believe these precious words? Will you not receive them into your heart? “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] Is not this promise broad and deep and full? Can you ask more? Will you not allow the Lord right here to erect a standard for you against the enemy? Satan is ready to steal away the blessed assurances of God. He desires to take every glimmer of hope and every ray of light from the soul; but you must not permit him to do this. Exercise faith, fight the good fight of faith, wrestle with these doubts. Become acquainted with the promises.

6LtMs, Lt 20, 1889, par. 13

Do not give ear to the tempter, but say, “Jesus has died that I might live. He loves me, and wills not that I should perish. I have a compassionate heavenly Father; and although I have abused His love, though the blessings so graciously given me of God have been squandered, I will arise, and go to my Father, and say, ‘I have sinned, and am no longer worthy to be called thy son. Make me as one of thy hired servants.’” The parable tells you just how the wanderer will be received. “When he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” [Luke 15:19, 20.] It is thus that the Saviour represents God’s willingness to receive the repenting, returning sinner.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 147, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 147, 1897, par. 7

“The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” “How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” [Luke 19:10; Matthew 18:12-14; Luke 15:7.]

12LtMs, Ms 147, 1897, par. 33

When the prodigal son came to himself, he said, “How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger. I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” [Luke 15:17-20.]

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

MR No. 920—The Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, and Lost Son

11MR 369.1

The Lord works with those who are sinners. These are the ones who need most the help of the great Physician; yet, like the lost piece of silver, they are unconscious of their state. The soul unaroused is in a state of impiety, even at an early age. The woman who begins her search for the piece of silver sweeps the house until she finds it. She removes everything that will obstruct her search. She seeks diligently until she finds it. Then, rejoicing in her success, she calls her friends together, saying, “Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I had lost” (Luke 15:9). In every home let the candle be lighted. Fathers and mothers must bring the Word of God into their practical life if they would save the souls of their children.

Radiant Religion

In the Return of the Erring, June 21

RRe 174.1

When she hath found it, she called her friends and her neighbors together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Luke 15:9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 80, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 80, 1898, par. 7

The Lord works with those who are sinners. These are the ones who need most the help of the great Physician; yet, like the lost piece of silver, they are unconscious of their state. The soul unaroused is in a state of impiety, even at an early age. The woman who begins her search for the piece of silver sweeps the house until she finds it. She removes everything that will obstruct her search. She seeks diligently until she finds it. Then, rejoicing in her success, she calls her friends together, saying, “Rejoice with me, I have found the piece which was lost.” [Luke 15:9.] In every home let the candle be lighted. Fathers and mothers must bring the Word of God into their practical life if they would save the souls of their children.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Lost Silver

1TT 306.1

When the woman found the silver, she called her friends and her neighbors together, saying: “Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:9, 10. If the angels of God rejoice over the erring who see and confess their wrongs and return to the fellowship of their brethren, how much more should the followers of Christ, who are themselves erring, and who every day need the forgiveness of God and of their brethren, feel joy over the return of a brother or a sister who has been deceived by the sophistry of Satan and has taken a wrong course and suffered because of it.

With God at Dawn

Angels Interested in Sinful Man, December 14

WGD 350.1

There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15:10.

Radiant Religion

Angels Rejoice with Men in Seeking the Lost, July 27

RRe 210.1

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15:10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 80a, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 80a, 1895, par. 16

There is reward for the whole-hearted, unselfish workers. They will enter into the joy of their Lord. What is this joy? “Likewise, I say unto you, There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” [Luke 15:10.] There will be a blessed commendation, a holy benediction, on the faithful winners of souls, for they will join the rejoicing ones in heaven, who shout the harvest home. How great will be the joy when the redeemed of the Lord shall all meet—gathered into the mansions prepared for them!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 29, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 29, 1900, par. 30

In every place where the apostle Paul was called to go after his conversion, he gave a vivid presentation of the ministration of heavenly angels in his conversion. The Lord calls upon those who bear the name of Christ to cooperate with Him. This is a real, genuine union in ministerial service. Church members who have had light upon the truth must be converted and become Christians in practice. They must obey the truth, else they will become Satan’s vigilant church-workers, to annoy and perplex those who are weak in the faith. Christ and His angels are at work, and what are we as individuals doing? Read the message from the lips of Christ in (Matthew 18) and Luke 15:10.

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 4—You Can Come Home Any Time

CSA 12.1

And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. Luke 15:11-24.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”

COL 198.1

The parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son, bring out in distinct lines God’s pitying love for those who are straying from Him. Although they have turned away from God, He does not leave them in their misery. He is full of kindness and tender pity toward all who are exposed to the temptations of the artful foe.

COL 198.2

In the parable of the prodigal son is presented the Lord’s dealing with those who have once known the Father’s love, but who have allowed the tempter to lead them captive at his will.

COL 198.3

“A certain man had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country.”

COL 198.4

This younger son had become weary of the restraint of his father’s house. He thought that his liberty was restricted. His father’s love and care for him were misinterpreted, and he determined to follow the dictates of his own inclination.

COL 199.1

The youth acknowledges no obligation to his father, and expresses no gratitude; yet he claims the privilege of a child in sharing his father’s goods. The inheritance that would fall to him at his father’s death he desires to receive now. He is bent on present enjoyment, and cares not for the future.

COL 199.2

Having obtained his patrimony, he goes into “a far country,” away from his father’s home. With money in plenty, and liberty to do as he likes, he flatters himself that the desire of his heart is reached. There is no one to say, Do not do this, for it will be an injury to yourself; or, Do this, because it is right. Evil companions help him to plunge ever deeper into sin, and he wastes his “substance with riotous living.”

COL 199.3

The Bible tells of men who “professing themselves to be wise” “became fools” (Romans 1:22); and this is the history of the young man of the parable. The wealth which he has selfishly claimed from his father he squanders upon harlots. The treasure of his young manhood is wasted. The precious years of life, the strength of intellect, the bright visions of youth, the spiritual aspirations—all are consumed in the fires of lust.

COL 200.1

A great famine arises, he begins to be in want, and he joins himself to a citizen of the country, who sends him into the field to feed swine. To a Jew this was the most menial and degrading of employments. The youth who has boasted of his liberty, now finds himself a slave. He is in the worst of bondage—“holden with the cords of his sins.” (Proverbs 5:22.) The glitter and tinsel that enticed him have disappeared, and he feels the burden of his chain. Sitting upon the ground in that desolate and famine-stricken land, with no companions but the swine, he is fain to fill himself with the husks on which the beasts are fed. Of the gay companions who flocked about him in his prosperous days and ate and drank at his expense, there is not one left to befriend him. Where now is his riotous joy? Stilling his conscience, benumbing his sensibilities, he thought himself happy; but now, with money spent, with hunger unsatisfied, with pride humbled, with his moral nature dwarfed, with his will weak and untrustworthy, with his finer feelings seemingly dead, he is the most wretched of mortals.

COL 200.2

What a picture here of the sinner’s state! Although surrounded with the blessings of His love, there is nothing that the sinner, bent on self-indulgence and sinful pleasure, desires so much as separation from God. Like the ungrateful son, he claims the good things of God as his by right. He takes them as a matter of course, and makes no return of gratitude, renders no service of love. As Cain went out from the presence of the Lord to seek his home; as the prodigal wandered into the “far country,” so do sinners seek happiness in forgetfulness of God. (Romans 1:28.)

COL 200.3

Whatever the appearance may be, every life centered in self is squandered. Whoever attempts to live apart from God is wasting his substance. He is squandering the precious years, squandering the powers of mind and heart and soul, and working to make himself bankrupt for eternity. The man who separates from God that he may serve himself, is the slave of mammon. The mind that God created for the companionship of angels has become degraded to the service of that which is earthly and bestial. This is the end to which self-serving tends.

COL 201.1

If you have chosen such a life, you know that you are spending money for that which is not bread, and labor for that which satisfieth not. There come to you hours when you realize your degradation. Alone in the far country you feel your misery, and in despair you cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. It is the statement of a universal truth which is contained in the prophet’s words, “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” Jeremiah 17:5, 6. God “maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45); but men have the power to shut themselves away from sunshine and shower. So while the Sun of Righteousness shines, and the showers of grace fall freely for all, we may by separating ourselves from God still “inhabit the parched places in the wilderness.”

COL 202.1

The love of God still yearns over the one who has chosen to separate from Him, and He sets in operation influences to bring him back to the Father’s house. The prodigal son in his wretchedness “came to himself.” The deceptive power that Satan had exercised over him was broken. He saw that his suffering was the result of his own folly, and he said, “How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father.” Miserable as he was, the prodigal found hope in the conviction of his father’s love. It was that love which was drawing him toward home. So it is the assurance of God’s love that constrains the sinner to return to God. “The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” Romans 2:4. A golden chain, the mercy and compassion of divine love, is passed around every imperiled soul. The Lord declares, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3.

COL 202.2

The son determines to confess his guilt. He will go to his father, saying, “I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” But he adds, showing how stinted is his conception of his father’s love, “Make me as one of thy hired servants.”

COL 202.3

The young man turns from the swine herds and the husks, and sets his face toward home. Trembling with weakness and faint from hunger, he presses eagerly on his way. He has no covering to conceal his rags; but his misery has conquered pride, and he hurries on to beg a servant’s place where he was once a child.

COL 203.1

Little did the gay, thoughtless youth, as he went out from his father’s gate, dream of the ache and longing left in that father’s heart. When he danced and feasted with his wild companions, little did he think of the shadow that had fallen on his home. And now as with weary and painful steps he pursues the homeward way, he knows not that one is watching for his return. But while he is yet “a great way off” the father discerns his form. Love is of quick sight. Not even the degradation of the years of sin can conceal the son from the father’s eyes. He “had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck” in a long, clinging, tender embrace.

COL 203.2

The father will permit no contemptuous eye to mock at his son’s misery and tatters. He takes from his own shoulders the broad, rich mantle, and wraps it around the son’s wasted form, and the youth sobs out his repentance, saying, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” The father holds him close to his side, and brings him home. No opportunity is given him to ask a servant’s place. He is a son, who shall be honored with the best the house affords, and whom the waiting men and women shall respect and serve.

COL 204.1

The father said to his servants, “Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.”

COL 204.2

In his restless youth the prodigal looked upon his father as stern and severe. How different his conception of him now! So those who are deceived by Satan look upon God as hard and exacting. They regard Him as watching to denounce and condemn, as unwilling to receive the sinner so long as there is a legal excuse for not helping him. His law they regard as a restriction upon men’s happiness, a burdensome yoke from which they are glad to escape. But he whose eyes have been opened by the love of Christ will behold God as full of compassion. He does not appear as a tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father longing to embrace his repenting son. The sinner will exclaim with the Psalmist, “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Psalm 103:13.

COL 204.3

In the parable there is no taunting, no casting up to the prodigal of his evil course. The son feels that the past is forgiven and forgotten, blotted out forever. And so God says to the sinner, “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins,” Isaiah 44:22. “I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” Jeremiah 31:34. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:7. “In those days, and in that time, saith the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found.” Jeremiah 50:20.

COL 205.1

What assurance here, of God’s willingness to receive the repenting sinner! Have you, reader, chosen your own way? Have you wandered far from God? Have you sought to feast upon the fruits of transgression, only to find them turn to ashes upon your lips? And now, your substance spent, your life-plans thwarted, and your hopes dead, do you sit alone and desolate? Now that voice which has long been speaking to your heart but to which you would not listen comes to you distinct and clear, “Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest; because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction.” Micah 2:10. Return to your Father’s house. He invites you, saying, “Return unto Me; for I have redeemed thee.” Isaiah 44:22.

COL 205.2

Do not listen to the enemy’s suggestion to stay away from Christ until you have made yourself better; until you are good enough to come to God. If you wait until then, you will never come. When Satan points to your filthy garments, repeat the promise of Jesus, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. Tell the enemy that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin. Make the prayer of David your own, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7.

COL 206.1

Arise and go to your Father. He will meet you a great way off. If you take even one step toward Him in repentance, He will hasten to enfold you in His arms of infinite love. His ear is open to the cry of the contrite soul. The very first reaching out of the heart after God is known to Him. Never a prayer is offered, however faltering, never a tear is shed, however secret, never a sincere desire after God is cherished, however feeble, but the Spirit of God goes forth to meet it. Even before the prayer is uttered or the yearning of the heart made known, grace from Christ goes forth to meet the grace that is working upon the human soul.

COL 206.2

Your heavenly Father will take from you the garments defiled by sin. In the beautiful parabolic prophecy of Zechariah, the high priest Joshua, standing clothed in filthy garments before the angel of the Lord, represents the sinner. And the word is spoken by the Lord, “Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him He said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.... So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments.” Zechariah 3:4, 5. Even so God will clothe you with “the garments of salvation,” and cover you with “the robe of righteousness.” Isaiah 61:10. “Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.” Psalm 68:13.

COL 206.3

He will bring you into His banqueting house, and His banner over you shall be love. (Song of Solomon 2:4) “If thou wilt walk in My ways,” He declares, “I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by”—even among the holy angels that surround His throne. (Zechariah 3:7.)

COL 207.1

“As the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.” Isaiah 62:5. “He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love; He will joy over thee with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17. And heaven and earth shall unite in the Father’s song of rejoicing: “For this My son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.”

COL 207.2

Thus far in the Saviour’s parable there is no discordant note to jar the harmony of the scene of joy; but now Christ introduces another element. When the prodigal came home, the elder son “was in the field; and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. And he was angry, and would not go in.” This elder brother has not been sharing in his father’s anxiety and watching for the one that was lost. He shares not, therefore, in the father’s joy at the wanderer’s return. The sounds of rejoicing kindle no gladness in his heart. He inquires of a servant the reason of the festivity, and the answer excites his jealousy. He will not go in to welcome his lost brother. The favor shown the prodigal he regards as an insult to himself.

COL 207.3

When the father comes out to remonstrate with him, the pride and malignity of his nature are revealed. He dwells upon his own life in his father’s house as a round of unrequited service, and then places in mean contrast the favor shown to the son just returned. He makes it plain that his own service has been that of a servant rather than a son. When he should have found an abiding joy in his father’s presence, his mind has rested upon the profit to accrue from his circumspect life. His words show that it is for this he has foregone the pleasures of sin. Now if this brother is to share in the father’s gifts, the elder son counts that he himself has been wronged. He grudges his brother the favor shown him. He plainly shows that had he been in the father’s place, he would not have received the prodigal. He does not even acknowledge him as a brother, but coldly speaks of him as “thy son.”

COL 208.1

Yet the father deals tenderly with him. “Son,” he says, “thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.” Through all these years of your brother’s outcast life, have you not had the privilege of companionship with me?

COL 208.2

Everything that could minister to the happiness of his children was freely theirs. The son need have no question of gift or reward. “All that I have is thine.” You have only to believe my love, and take the gift that is freely bestowed.

COL 209.1

One son had for a time cut himself off from the household, not discerning the father’s love. But now he has returned, and the tide of joy sweeps away every disturbing thought. “This thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.”

COL 209.2

Was the elder brother brought to see his own mean, ungrateful spirit? Did he come to see that though his brother had done wickedly, he was his brother still? Did the elder brother repent of his jealousy and hardheartedness? Concerning this, Christ was silent. For the parable was still enacting, and it rested with His hearers to determine what the outcome should be.

COL 209.3

By the elder son were represented the unrepenting Jews of Christ’s day, and also the Pharisees in every age, who look with contempt upon those whom they regard as publicans and sinners. Because they themselves have not gone to great excesses in vice, they are filled with self-righteousness. Christ met these cavilers on their own ground. Like the elder son in the parable, they had enjoyed special privileges from God. They claimed to be sons in God’s house, but they had the spirit of the hireling. They were working, not from love, but from hope of reward. In their eyes, God was an exacting taskmaster. They saw Christ inviting publicans and sinners to receive freely the gift of His grace—the gift which the rabbis hoped to secure only by toil and penance—and they were offended. The prodigal’s return, which filled the Father’s heart with joy, only stirred them to jealousy.

COL 209.4

In the parable the father’s remonstrance with the elder son was Heaven’s tender appeal to the Pharisees. “All that I have is thine”—not as wages, but as a gift. Like the prodigal, you can receive it only as the unmerited bestowal of the Father’s love.

COL 210.1

Self-righteousness not only leads men to misrepresent God, but makes them coldhearted and critical toward their brethren. The elder son, in his selfishness and jealousy, stood ready to watch his brother, to criticize every action, and to accuse him for the least deficiency. He would detect every mistake, and make the most of every wrong act. Thus he would seek to justify his own unforgiving spirit. Many today are doing the same thing. While the soul is making its very first struggles against a flood of temptations, they stand by, stubborn, self-willed, complaining, accusing. They may claim to be children of God, but they are acting out the spirit of Satan. By their attitude toward their brethren, these accusers place themselves where God cannot give them the light of His countenance.

COL 210.2

Many are constantly questioning, “Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before Him with burnt-offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil?” But “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:6-8.

COL 210.3

This is the service that God has chosen—“to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke, ... and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh.” Isaiah 58:6, 7. When you see yourselves as sinners saved only by the love of your heavenly Father, you will have tender pity for others who are suffering in sin. You will no longer meet misery and repentance with jealousy and censure. When the ice of selfishness is melted from your hearts, you will be in sympathy with God, and will share His joy in the saving of the lost.

COL 211.1

It is true that you claim to be a child of God; but if this claim be true, it is “thy brother” that was “dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.” He is bound to you by the closest ties; for God recognizes him as a son. Deny your relationship to him, and you show that you are but a hireling in the household, not a child in the family of God.

COL 211.2

Though you will not join in the greeting to the lost, the joy will go on, the restored one will have his place by the Father’s side and in the Father’s work. He that is forgiven much, the same loves much. But you will be in the darkness without. For “he that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” 1 John 4:8.

From the Heart

The Prodigal Son, April 25

FH 127.1

A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, “Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.” So he divided to them his livelihood. Luke 15:11, 12. (Read Luke 15:11-32.)

That I May Know Him

Acceptable Prayer, September 11

TMK 260.3

God invites us to come to Him with our burden of guilt and our heart sorrows. Sin fills us with fear of God. When we have sinned we try to hide ourselves from Him. But whatever our sin, God bids us come unto Him through Jesus Christ. It is only by taking our sins to God that we can be freed from them. Cain, under the rebuke of God, acknowledged his guilt in killing Abel, but he fled away from God, as if he could thus escape from his sin. Had he fled to God with his burden of guilt he would have been forgiven. The prodigal son, realizing his guilt and wretchedness, said, “I will arise and go to my father” (Luke 15:18). He confessed his sin and was taken back to his father’s heart.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 23, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 23, 1897, par. 24

The end of time is close upon us. The world’s inhabitants are being bound in bundles to be burned. Shall you be bound up with the tares? Will you not be saved in God’s appointed way? Will you not, like the prodigal son, say, “I will arise, and go to my father and say unto him, Father I have sinned against heaven and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son; make me as one of thy hired servants”? [Luke 15:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 132, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 132, 1902, par. 9

To give a true representation of the tender, loving, pitying care exercised by His Father, Jesus gave the parable of the prodigal son. Though His children err and stray from Him, if they repent and return, He will receive them with the joy manifested by an earthly Father in receiving a long-lost son who in penitence returns, saying, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.” [Luke 15:18, 19.] How earnestly should men co-operate with God in seeking the lost sheep! in seeking to win back the prodigal!

Steps to Christ

Chapter 6—Faith and Acceptance

SC 53.2

“I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.” Ezekiel 18:32. Satan is ready to steal away the blessed assurances of God. He desires to take every glimmer of hope and every ray of light from the soul; but you must not permit him to do this. Do not give ear to the tempter, but say, “Jesus has died that I might live. He loves me, and wills not that I should perish. I have a compassionate heavenly Father; and although I have abused His love, though the blessings He has given me have been squandered, I will arise, and go to my Father, and say, ‘I have sinned against heaven, and before Thee, and am no more worthy to be called Thy son: make me as one of Thy hired servants.’” The parable tells you how the wanderer will be received: “When he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Luke 15:18-20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 194, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 194, 1898, par. 2

The Lord would have the people confess their sins and ask for His pardon. Like the prodigal, He would have them say, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee,” and He will not only pardon, but call on angels to rejoice. “For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” Luke 15:18, 24.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Father’s Love

1TT 309.1

The penitent, trembling son, who had greatly feared that he would be disowned, was unprepared for such a reception. He knew he did not deserve it, and he thus acknowledged his sin in leaving his father: “I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” Luke 15:21. He begged only to be accounted as a hired servant. But the father requested his servants to pay him special tokens of respect and to clothe him as if he had ever been his own obedient son.

In Heavenly Places

Love That Is Measureless, January 4

HP 10.3

The father of the prodigal son is the type that Christ chooses as a representation of God. This father longs to see and receive once more the son who has left him. He waits and watches for him, yearning to see him, hoping that he will come. When he sees a stranger approaching, poor and clothed with rags, he goes out to meet him, if perchance it may be his son. And he feeds and clothes him as if he were indeed his son. By and by he has his reward, for his son comes home, on his lips the beseeching confession, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” And the father says to the servants, “Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry” (Luke 15:21-23).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 76, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 76, 1903, par. 21

The father of the prodigal son is the type that Christ chooses as a representation of God. This father longs to see and receive once more the son who has left him. He waits and watches for him, yearning to see him, hoping that he will come. When he sees a stranger approaching, poor and clothed in rags, he goes out to meet him, if perchance it may be his son. And he feeds and clothes him as if he were indeed his son. By and by he has his reward; for his son comes home, on his lips the beseeching confession, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.” And the father says to the servants, “Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry.” [Luke 15:21-23.]

Radiant Religion

Rejoices When a Prodigal Returns, May 23

RRe 145.1

The father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry. Luke 15:22, 23.

Radiant Religion

Enters Into the Joy of Others, May 24

RRe 146.1

This my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. Luke 15:24.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 53—The Last Journey From Galilee

DA 495.4

The beautiful parable of the lost sheep Christ repeated. And He carried its lesson still farther, as He told of the lost piece of silver and the prodigal son. The force of these lessons the disciples could not then fully appreciate; but after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as they saw the ingathering of the Gentiles and the envious anger of the Jews, they better understood the lesson of the prodigal son, and could enter into the joy of Christ’s words, “It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad;” “for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” Luke 15:32, 24. And as they went out in their Master’s name, facing reproach and poverty and persecution, they often strengthened their hearts by repeating His injunction, spoken on this last journey, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Luke 12:32-34.

From the Heart

The Older Brother, April 26

FH 128.1

But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. Luke 15:28.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Jealous Brother

1TT 309.4

The father entreated his elder son to go and receive his brother with gladness because he was lost and is found; he was dead in sin and iniquity, but is alive again; he has come to his moral senses and abhors his course of sin. But his elder son pleads: “Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: but as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.” Luke 15:29-32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 147a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 147a, 1897, par. 16

It is considered a great favor and honor to stand in the presence of an earthly king, and to see his face, which means to be in favor with him. But all who love and serve God will be favored by Him. The king of righteousness admits the contrite and humble soul into His audience chamber, where they can converse with Him. The throne of His grace is laid open, and may be approached by all who are meek and lowly in heart. The Prince of light and righteousness says of all such, “Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.” [Luke 15:31.] To be blessed, to see God, means that we shall always abide in His love.

Radiant Religion

They Share His Joy in Saving of the Lost, July 25

RRe 208.1

He said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. Luke 15:31, 32.