EGW WritingsLuke 24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 163, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, par. 5

I had not time to say much, but what I read was sufficient, I hope, to lead them to search the Scriptures for themselves. I told them that Christ kept the Sabbath, and that the women rested on the seventh day, “according to the commandment,” and on the first day of the week brought spices and ointment to His sepulcher. [Luke 23:56; 24:1.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 82—“Why Weepest Thou?”

DA 788.1

The women who had stood by the cross of Christ waited and watched for the hours of the Sabbath to pass. On the first day of the week, very early, they made their way to the tomb, taking with them precious spices to anoint the Saviour’s body. They did not think about His rising from the dead. The sun of their hope had set, and night had settled down on their hearts. As they walked, they recounted Christ’s works of mercy and His words of comfort. But they remembered not His words, “I will see you again.” John 16:22.

DA 788.2

Ignorant of what was even then taking place, they drew near the garden, saying as they went, “Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulcher?” They knew that they could not remove the stone, yet they kept on their way. And lo, the heavens were suddenly alight with glory that came not from the rising sun. The earth trembled. They saw that the great stone was rolled away. The grave was empty.

DA 788.3

The women had not all come to the tomb from the same direction. Mary Magdalene was the first to reach the place; and upon seeing that the stone was removed, she hurried away to tell the disciples. Meanwhile the other women came up. A light was shining about the tomb, but the body of Jesus was not there. As they lingered about the place, suddenly they saw that they were not alone. A young man clothed in shining garments was sitting by the tomb. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone. He had taken the guise of humanity that he might not alarm these friends of Jesus. Yet about him the light of the heavenly glory was still shining, and the women were afraid. They turned to flee, but the angel’s words stayed their steps. “Fear not ye,” he said; “for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead.” Again they look into the tomb, and again they hear the wonderful news. Another angel in human form is there, and he says, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how He spake unto you when He was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.”

DA 789.1

He is risen, He is risen! The women repeat the words again and again. No need now for the anointing spices. The Saviour is living, and not dead. They remember now that when speaking of His death He said that He would rise again. What a day is this to the world! Quickly the women departed from the sepulcher “with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word.”

DA 789.2

Mary had not heard the good news. She went to Peter and John with the sorrowful message, “They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulcher, and we know not where they have laid Him.” The disciples hurried to the tomb, and found it as Mary had said. They saw the shroud and the napkin, but they did not find their Lord. Yet even here was testimony that He had risen. The graveclothes were not thrown heedlessly aside, but carefully folded, each in a place by itself. John “saw, and believed.” He did not yet understand the scripture that Christ must rise from the dead; but he now remembered the Saviour’s words foretelling His resurrection.

DA 789.3

It was Christ Himself who had placed those graveclothes with such care. When the mighty angel came down to the tomb, he was joined by another, who with his company had been keeping guard over the Lord’s body. As the angel from heaven rolled away the stone, the other entered the tomb, and unbound the wrappings from the body of Jesus. But it was the Saviour’s hand that folded each, and laid it in its place. In His sight who guides alike the star and the atom, there is nothing unimportant. Order and perfection are seen in all His work.

DA 789.4

Mary had followed John and Peter to the tomb; when they returned to Jerusalem, she remained. As she looked into the empty tomb, grief filled her heart. Looking in, she saw the two angels, one at the head and the other at the foot where Jesus had lain. “Woman, why weepest thou?” they asked her. “Because they have taken away my Lord,” she answered, “and I know not where they have laid Him.”

DA 790.1

Then she turned away, even from the angels, thinking that she must find someone who could tell her what had been done with the body of Jesus. Another voice addressed her, “Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou?” Through her tear-dimmed eyes, Mary saw the form of a man, and thinking that it was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him, and I will take Him away.” If this rich man’s tomb was thought too honorable a burial place for Jesus, she herself would provide a place for Him. There was a grave that Christ’s own voice had made vacant, the grave where Lazarus had lain. Might she not there find a burial place for her Lord? She felt that to care for His precious crucified body would be a great consolation to her in her grief.

DA 790.2

But now in His own familiar voice Jesus said to her, “Mary.” Now she knew that it was not a stranger who was addressing her, and turning she saw before her the living Christ. In her joy she forgot that He had been crucified. Springing toward Him, as if to embrace His feet, she said, “Rabboni.” But Christ raised His hand, saying, Detain Me not; “for I am not yet ascended to My Father: but go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” And Mary went her way to the disciples with the joyful message.

DA 790.3

Jesus refused to receive the homage of His people until He had the assurance that His sacrifice was accepted by the Father. He ascended to the heavenly courts, and from God Himself heard the assurance that His atonement for the sins of men had been ample, that through His blood all might gain eternal life. The Father ratified the covenant made with Christ, that He would receive repentant and obedient men, and would love them even as He loves His Son. Christ was to complete His work, and fulfill His pledge to “make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” Isaiah 13:12. All power in heaven and on earth was given to the Prince of Life, and He returned to His followers in a world of sin, that He might impart to them of His power and glory.

DA 790.4

While the Saviour was in God’s presence, receiving gifts for His church, the disciples thought upon His empty tomb, and mourned and wept. The day that was a day of rejoicing to all heaven was to the disciples a day of uncertainty, confusion, and perplexity. Their unbelief in the testimony of the women gives evidence of how low their faith had sunk. The news of Christ’s resurrection was so different from what they had anticipated that they could not believe it. It was too good to be true, they thought. They had heard so much of the doctrines and the so-called scientific theories of the Sadducees that the impression made on their minds in regard to the resurrection was vague. They scarcely knew what the resurrection from the dead could mean. They were unable to take in the great subject.

DA 793.1

“Go your way,” the angels had said to the women, “tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you.” These angels had been with Christ as guardian angels throughout His life on earth. They had witnessed His trial and crucifixion. They had heard His words to His disciples. This was shown by their message to the disciples, and should have convinced them of its truth. Such words could have come only from the messengers of their risen Lord.

DA 793.2

“Tell His disciples and Peter,” the angels said. Since the death of Christ, Peter had been bowed down with remorse. His shameful denial of the Lord, and the Saviour’s look of love and anguish, were ever before him. Of all the disciples he had suffered most bitterly. To him the assurance is given that his repentance is accepted and his sin forgiven. He is mentioned by name.

DA 793.3

“Tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him.” All the disciples had forsaken Jesus, and the call to meet Him again includes them all. He has not cast them off. When Mary Magdalene told them she had seen the Lord, she repeated the call to the meeting in Galilee. And a third time the message was sent to them. After He had ascended to the Father, Jesus appeared to the other women, saying, “All hail. And they came and held Him by the feet, and worshiped Him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell My brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see Me.”

DA 793.4

Christ’s first work on earth after His resurrection was to convince His disciples of His undiminished love and tender regard for them. To give them proof that He was their living Saviour, that He had broken the fetters of the tomb, and could no longer be held by the enemy death; to reveal that He had the same heart of love as when He was with them as their beloved Teacher, He appeared to them again and again. He would draw the bonds of love still closer around them. Go tell My brethren, He said, that they meet Me in Galilee.

DA 794.1

As they heard this appointment, so definitely given, the disciples began to think of Christ’s words to them foretelling His resurrection. But even now they did not rejoice. They could not cast off their doubt and perplexity. Even when the women declared that they had seen the Lord, the disciples would not believe. They thought them under an illusion.

DA 794.2

Trouble seemed crowding upon trouble. On the sixth day of the week they had seen their Master die; on the first day of the next week they found themselves deprived of His body, and they were accused of having stolen it away for the sake of deceiving the people. They despaired of ever correcting the false impressions that were gaining ground against them. They feared the enmity of the priests and the wrath of the people. They longed for the presence of Jesus, who had helped them in every perplexity.

DA 794.3

Often they repeated the words, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel.” Lonely and sick at heart they remembered His words, “If they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” Luke 24:21; 23:31. They met together in the upper chamber, and closed and fastened the doors, knowing that the fate of their beloved Teacher might at any time be theirs.

DA 794.4

And all the time they might have been rejoicing in the knowledge of a risen Saviour. In the garden, Mary had stood weeping, when Jesus was close beside her. Her eyes were so blinded by tears that she did not discern Him. And the hearts of the disciples were so full of grief that they did not believe the angels’ message or the words of Christ Himself.

DA 794.5

How many are still doing what these disciples did! How many echo Mary’s despairing cry, “They have taken away the Lord, ... and we know not where they have laid Him”! To how many might the Saviour’s words be spoken, “Why weepest thou? whom seekest thou?” He is close beside them, but their tear-blinded eyes do not discern Him. He speaks to them, but they do not understand.

DA 794.6

Oh that the bowed head might be lifted, that the eyes might be opened to behold Him, that the ears might listen to His voice! “Go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen.” Bid them look not to Joseph’s new tomb, that was closed with a great stone, and sealed with the Roman seal. Christ is not there. Look not to the empty sepulcher. Mourn not as those who are hopeless and helpless. Jesus lives, and because He lives, we shall live also. From grateful hearts, from lips touched with holy fire, let the glad song ring out, Christ is risen! He lives to make intercession for us. Grasp this hope, and it will hold the soul like a sure, tried anchor. Believe, and thou shalt see the glory of God.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 82—“Woman, Why Are You Weeping?”

HLv 525.1

On the first day of the week, very early, the women who had stood by the cross made their way to the tomb to anoint the Saviour’s body. They did not think about His rising from the dead. The sun of their hope had set. They remembered not His words, “I will see you again.” John 16:22.

HLv 525.2

Ignorant of what was even then taking place, they drew near the garden, saying, “Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulcher?” And lo, the heavens were suddenly alight with glory. The earth trembled. The great stone was rolled away. The grave was empty!

HLv 525.3

Mary Magdalene was the first to reach the place, and seeing that the stone was removed, she hurried to tell the disciples. Meanwhile the other women came. A light was shining about the tomb, but the body of Jesus was not there.

HLv 525.4

As they lingered, suddenly they saw that they were not alone. A young man in shining garments was sitting by the tomb. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone. He had taken the guise of humanity that he might not alarm these friends of Jesus. Yet about him the light of the heavenly glory was still shining, and the women were afraid. “Do not be afraid,” the angel said, “for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead.”

HLv 525.5

They looked into the tomb, and another angel in human form said, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how He spake unto you when He was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.”

HLv 526.1

The women remembered now—He said He would rise again! What a day is this! Quickly they departed “with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word.”

HLv 526.2

Mary had not heard the good news. She went to Peter and John with the sorrowful message, “They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulcher, and we know not where they have laid Him.” The disciples hurried to the tomb and saw the shroud and the napkin, but did not find their Lord. Yet even here was testimony that He had risen. The graveclothes were not thrown heedlessly aside, but carefully folded, each in a place by itself. John “saw, and believed.” He now remembered the Saviour’s words foretelling His resurrection.

HLv 526.3

Christ Himself placed those graveclothes with such care. As the mighty angel from heaven rolled away the stone, another entered the tomb and unbound the wrappings from the body of Jesus. But it was the Saviour’s hand that folded each, and laid it in its place. In His sight who guides alike the star and the atom, nothing is unimportant.

HLv 526.4

Mary had followed John and Peter to the tomb; when they returned to Jerusalem, she remained. Grief filled her heart. Looking into the empty tomb, she saw the two angels, one at the head and the other at the foot where Jesus had lain. “Woman, why weepest thou?” they asked her. “Because they have taken away my Lord,” she answered, “and I know not where they have laid Him.”

HLv 526.5

Then she turned away, thinking that she must find someone who could tell her what had been done with the body. Another voice addressed her: “Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou?” Through tear-dimmed eyes, Mary saw a man, and thinking it was the gardener, said, “Sir, if thou have borne Him hence, tell me where thou hast laid Him, and I will take Him away.” If this rich man’s tomb was thought too honorable for Jesus, she herself would provide a place for Him. There was a grave that Christ’s own voice had made vacant, the grave where Lazarus had lain.

HLv 527.1

But now in His own familiar voice, Jesus said to her, “Mary.” Turning, she saw before her the living Christ! Springing toward Him as if to embrace His feet, she said, “Rabboni.” But Christ raised His hand, saying, Detain Me not; “for I have not yet ascended to My Father: but go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” Mary went her way with the joyful message.

HLv 527.2

Jesus refused the homage of His people until He ascended to the heavenly courts and from God Himself heard the assurance that His atonement for the sins of men had been ample, that through His blood all might attain eternal life. The Father ratified the covenant made with Christ, that He would receive repentant and obedient men and would love them even as He loves His Son. All power in heaven and on earth was given to the Prince of life, and He returned to His followers in a world of sin, that He might impart of His power and glory to His followers.

HLv 527.3

While the Saviour was in God’s presence, receiving gifts for His church, the disciples mourned and wept. The day of rejoicing to all heaven was to them a day of confusion and perplexity. Their unbelief in the testimony of the women gives evidence of how low their faith had sunk. They could not believe the news. It was too good to be true, they thought. They had heard so much of the so-called scientific theories of the Sadducees that they scarcely knew what the resurrection from the dead could mean.

HLv 527.4

“Go your way,” the angels had said to the women, “tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you.” The message of these angels to the disciples should have convinced them of its truth. Such words could have come only from the messengers of their risen Lord.

HLv 528.1

Since the death of Christ, Peter had been bowed down with remorse. His shameful denial of the Lord was ever before him. Of all the disciples, he had suffered most bitterly. To him the assurance was given that his repentance was accepted. He was mentioned by name.

HLv 528.2

When Mary Magdalene had told the disciples she had seen the Lord, she repeated the call to the meeting in Galilee. And a third time the message was sent to them. After He had ascended to the Father, Jesus appeared to the other women, saying, “Go tell My brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see Me.”

HLv 528.3

Christ’s first work after His resurrection was to convince His disciples of His undiminished love and tender regard for them. He would draw the bonds of love still closer around them. Go tell My brethren, He said, that they meet Me in Galilee.

HLv 528.4

But even now the disciples could not cast off their doubt and perplexity. Even when the women declared that they had seen the Lord, they thought them under an illusion.

HLv 528.5

Trouble seemed crowding on trouble. They had seen their Master die; they found themselves deprived of His body; and they were accused of having stolen it for the sake of deceiving the people. They despaired of ever correcting the false impressions that were gaining ground. They feared the enmity of the priests and the wrath of the people. They longed for the presence of Jesus.

HLv 528.6

Often they repeated the words, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel.” Luke 24:21. Lonely and sick at heart, they met together in the upper chamber, and closed and fastened the doors, knowing that the fate of their beloved Teacher might at any time be theirs.

HLv 529.1

And all the time they might have been rejoicing in the knowledge of a risen Saviour. Many are still doing what these disciples did. The Saviour is close beside them, but their tear-blinded eyes do not discern Him. He speaks to them, but they do not understand.

HLv 529.2

“Go quickly, and tell His disciples that He is risen.” Look not to the empty sepulcher. From grateful hearts, from lips touched with holy fire, let the glad song ring out, Christ is risen! He lives to make intercession for us.

Daughters of God

Women at the Tomb of Jesus

DG 68.1

While John was troubled about the burial of his Master, Joseph returned with Pilate’s order for the body of Christ; and Nicodemus came bringing a costly mixture of myrrh and aloes ... for His embalming.... The disciples were astonished to see these wealthy rulers as much interested as they themselves in the burial of their Lord....

DG 68.2

Gently and reverently they [Joseph and Nicodemus] removed with their own hands the body of Jesus from the cross. Their tears of sympathy fell fast as they looked upon His bruised and lacerated form. Joseph owned a new tomb, hewn in a rock. This he was reserving for himself; but it was near Calvary, and he now prepared it for Jesus. The body, together with the spices brought by Nicodemus, was carefully wrapped in a linen sheet, and the Redeemer was borne to the tomb. There the three disciples [John, Joseph, and Nicodemus] straightened the mangled limbs, and folded the bruised hands upon the pulseless breast. The Galilean women came to see that all had been done that could be done for the lifeless form of their beloved Teacher. Then they saw the heavy stone rolled against the entrance of the tomb, and the Saviour was left at rest. The women were last at the cross and last at the tomb of Christ. While the evening shades were gathering, Mary Magdalene and the other Marys lingered about the resting place of their Lord, shedding tears of sorrow over the fate of Him whom they loved. “And they returned, ... and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.” Luke 23:56.—The Desire of Ages, 773, 774 (1898).

DG 68.3

“In the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulcher.” Matthew 28:1. As they approached, they saw that the great stone was rolled away and that a light was shining about the tomb. The body of Jesus was not there, but soon they saw an angel.—Sermons and Talks 2:281 (1906).

DG 69.1

The women had not all come to the tomb from the same direction. Mary Magdalene was the first to reach the place; and upon seeing that the stone was removed, she hurried away to tell the disciples. Meanwhile the other women came up. A light was shining about the tomb, but the body of Jesus was not there. As they lingered about the place, suddenly they saw that they were not alone. A young man clothed in shining garments was sitting by the tomb. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone. He had taken the guise of humanity that he might not alarm these friends of Jesus. Yet about him the light of the heavenly glory was still shining, and the women were afraid.

DG 69.2

They turned to flee, but the angel’s words stayed their steps. “Fear not ye,” he said; “for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead.” Again they look into the tomb, and again they hear the wonderful news. Another angel in human form is there, and he says, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.”—The Desire of Ages, 788, 789 (1898).

DG 69.3

“Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, and seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She said unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.”

DG 69.4

Feeling that she must find someone who will tell her what has been done with Jesus, Mary turns away even from the words of the angels. As she does so, another voice addresses her: “Woman, why weepest thou?” Through her tear-dimmed eyes, Mary sees one whom she supposes to be the gardener. “Sir,” she says, “if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. Jesus saith unto her, Mary.” At the familiar voice, she turns to Him. She knows now that it is no stranger who speaks. Before her she sees the living Saviour. She springs toward Him, as if to embrace His feet, saying, “Rabboni.” But the Saviour raises His hand and says, “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.”—The Youth’s Instructor, July 21, 1898.

DG 70.1

“Go your way,” the angels had said to the women, “tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you”....

DG 70.2

[The message was repeated a second time:] “Tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him.” All the disciples had forsaken Jesus, and the call to meet Him again includes them all. He has not cast them off. When Mary Magdalene told them she had seen the Lord, she repeated the call to the meeting in Galilee. And a third time the message was sent to them. After He had ascended to the Father, Jesus appeared to the other women, saying, “All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped Him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see Me.”—The Desire of Ages, 793 (1898).

Selected Messages Book 3

Report of the Interview

3SM 364.3

Several scriptures were then read, including Luke 24 to the close of the chapter, ending with these words:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

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

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 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:

18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 17

Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus, when Christ appeared to them as a fellow traveller. He listened to their conversation as they talked of the events that had taken place in connection with the death of Him whom they had supposed to be the Christ. Absorbed in their gloom and disappointment, they did not observe their companion closely and failed to recognize in Him their beloved Master. Then beginning at Moses, the very alpha of Bible history, Christ expounded in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. He showed them that though the Messiah would die for sin, yet all this would not end in defeat, but in glorious, eternal victory. When they reached the place of their abode, they pressed Him to abide with them. Christ yielded to this entreaty and went in “to tarry with them.” [Luke 24:29.]

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)

Ms 115, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 9

Then I turn to (Luke 24), to show when they came into possession of that blessing termed sanctification—the apostles—and the experience of their lives; and I read from (verse 45) and onward to the end of the chapter:

23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 10

“Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that righteousness and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And He led them out as far as to Bethany; and He lifted up His hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.” [Verses 45-53.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 100, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, par. 18

Study the twenty-fourth chapter of Luke. This is a wonderful chapter. Praise the Lord God of heaven that He so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to save the sinful race. Every one who will repent and be converted will receive the gift of salvation. This the Saviour has made possible through suffering the penalty of death. All who come to the Father through faith in Christ, laying hold of the Saviour by faith, and following His example, will receive the assurance of the forgiveness of their sins. The sufferings of the Lord Jesus make it possible for every soul to be sanctified through a belief of the truth.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 27—Go Tell My Disciples

SJ 159.6

“Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how He spake unto you when He was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” Luke 24:5-7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 115, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 115, 1897, par. 2

Luke relates some things more definitely. The angels inquired, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen; remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful man, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words, and returned from the sepulcher, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and others that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.” [Luke 24:5-11.]

12LtMs, Ms 115, 1897, par. 9

Said the angel, “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here: he is risen; remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee.” [Luke 24:5, 6.] The wonderful instruction that Christ had given His disciples was never to lose its force, but they had to be reminded of the lessons that Christ had repeatedly given them while He was yet with them. “Remember,” said the angel, “how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” [Verses 6, 7.] The disciples were surprised that they had not thought of these things before. Why had His words been forgotten?

Christ Triumphant

“He Is Risen!” October 4

CTr 284.1

He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. Luke 24:6, 7.

Christ Triumphant

Two Disciples Went From Despair to Hope, October 15

CTr 295.1

Two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. And they talked together of all these things which had happened. Luke 24:13, 14.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 83—The Walk to Emmaus

DA 795.1

Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus, a little town eight miles from Jerusalem. These disciples had had no prominent place in Christ’s work, but they were earnest believers in Him. They had come to the city to keep the Passover, and were greatly perplexed by the events that had recently taken place. They had heard the news of the morning in regard to the removal of Christ’s body from the tomb, and also the report of the women who had seen the angels and had met Jesus. They were now returning to their homes to meditate and pray. Sadly they pursued their evening walk, talking over the scenes of the trial and the crucifixion. Never before had they been so utterly disheartened. Hopeless and faithless, they were walking in the shadow of the cross.

DA 795.2

They had not advanced far on their journey when they were joined by a stranger, but they were so absorbed in their gloom and disappointment that they did not observe him closely. They continued their conversation, expressing the thoughts of their hearts. They were reasoning in regard to the lessons that Christ had given, which they seemed unable to comprehend. As they talked of the events that had taken place, Jesus longed to comfort them. He had seen their grief; He understood the conflicting, perplexing ideas that brought to their minds the thought, Can this Man, who suffered Himself to be so humiliated, be the Christ? Their grief could not be restrained, and they wept. Jesus knew that their hearts were bound up with Him in love, and He longed to wipe away their tears, and fill them with joy and gladness. But He must first give them lessons they would never forget.

DA 796.1

“He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, Art Thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” They told Him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, “which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people;” but “the chief priests and our rulers,” they said, “delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him.” With hearts sore with disappointment, and with quivering lips, they added, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done.”

DA 796.2

Strange that the disciples did not remember Christ’s words, and realize that He had foretold the events which had come to pass! They did not realize that the last part of His disclosure would be just as verily fulfilled as the first part, that the third day He would rise again. This was the part they should have remembered. The priests and rulers did not forget this. On the day “that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while He was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.” Matthew 27:62, 63. But the disciples did not remember these words.

DA 796.3

“Then He said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?” The disciples wondered who this stranger could be, that He should penetrate to their very souls, and speak with such earnestness, tenderness, and sympathy, and with such hopefulness. For the first time since Christ’s betrayal, they began to feel hopeful. Often they looked earnestly at their companion, and thought that His words were just the words that Christ would have spoken. They were filled with amazement, and their hearts began to throb with joyful expectation.

DA 796.4

Beginning at Moses, the very Alpha of Bible history, Christ expounded in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Had He first made Himself known to them, their hearts would have been satisfied. In the fullness of their joy they would have hungered for nothing more. But it was necessary for them to understand the witness borne to Him by the types and prophecies of the Old Testament. Upon these their faith must be established. Christ performed no miracle to convince them, but it was His first work to explain the Scriptures. They had looked upon His death as the destruction of all their hopes. Now He showed from the prophets that this was the very strongest evidence for their faith.

DA 799.1

In teaching these disciples, Jesus showed the importance of the Old Testament as a witness to His mission. Many professed Christians now discard the Old Testament, claiming that it is no longer of any use. But such is not Christ’s teaching. So highly did He value it that at one time He said, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” Luke 16:31.

DA 799.2

It is the voice of Christ that speaks through patriarchs and prophets, from the days of Adam even to the closing scenes of time. The Saviour is revealed in the Old Testament as clearly as in the New. It is the light from the prophetic past that brings out the life of Christ and the teachings of the New Testament with clearness and beauty. The miracles of Christ are a proof of His divinity; but a stronger proof that He is the world’s Redeemer is found in comparing the prophecies of the Old Testament with the history of the New.

DA 799.3

Reasoning from prophecy, Christ gave His disciples a correct idea of what He was to be in humanity. Their expectation of a Messiah who was to take His throne and kingly power in accordance with the desires of men had been misleading. It would interfere with a correct apprehension of His descent from the highest to the lowest position that could be occupied. Christ desired that the ideas of His disciples might be pure and true in every specification. They must understand as far as possible in regard to the cup of suffering that had been apportioned to Him. He showed them that the awful conflict which they could not yet comprehend was the fulfillment of the covenant made before the foundation of the world was laid. Christ must die, as every transgressor of the law must die if he continues in sin. All this was to be, but it was not to end in defeat, but in glorious, eternal victory. Jesus told them that every effort must be made to save the world from sin. His followers must live as He lived, and work as He worked, with intense, persevering effort.

DA 800.1

Thus Christ discoursed to His disciples, opening their minds that they might understand the Scriptures. The disciples were weary, but the conversation did not flag. Words of life and assurance fell from the Saviour’s lips. But still their eyes were holden. As He told them of the overthrow of Jerusalem, they looked upon the doomed city with weeping. But little did they yet suspect who their traveling companion was. They did not think that the subject of their conversation was walking by their side; for Christ referred to Himself as though He were another person. They thought that He was one of those who had been in attendance at the great feast, and who was now returning to his home. He walked as carefully as they over the rough stones, now and then halting with them for a little rest. Thus they proceeded along the mountainous road, while the One who was soon to take His position at God’s right hand, and who could say, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” walked beside them. Matthew 28:18.

DA 800.2

During the journey the sun had gone down, and before the travelers reached their place of rest, the laborers in the fields had left their work. As the disciples were about to enter their home, the stranger appeared as though He would continue His journey. But the disciples felt drawn to Him. Their souls hungered to hear more from Him. “Abide with us,” they said. He did not seem to accept the invitation, but they pressed it upon Him, urging, “It is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” Christ yielded to this entreaty and “went in to tarry with them.”

DA 800.3

Had the disciples failed to press their invitation, they would not have known that their traveling companion was the risen Lord. Christ never forces His company upon anyone. He interests Himself in those who need Him. Gladly will He enter the humblest home, and cheer the lowliest heart. But if men are too indifferent to think of the heavenly Guest, or ask Him to abide with them, He passes on. Thus many meet with great loss. They do not know Christ any more than did the disciples as He walked with them by the way.

DA 800.4

The simple evening meal of bread is soon prepared. It is placed before the guest, who has taken His seat at the head of the table. Now He puts forth His hands to bless the food. The disciples start back in astonishment. Their companion spreads forth His hands in exactly the same way as their Master used to do. They look again, and lo, they see in His hands the print of nails. Both exclaim at once, It is the Lord Jesus! He has risen from the dead!

DA 801.1

They rise to cast themselves at His feet and worship Him, but He has vanished out of their sight. They look at the place which had been occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, and say to each other, “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?”

DA 801.2

But with this great news to communicate they cannot sit and talk. Their weariness and hunger are gone. They leave their meal untasted, and full of joy immediately set out again on the same path by which they came, hurrying to tell the tidings to the disciples in the city. In some parts the road is not safe, but they climb over the steep places, slipping on the smooth rocks. They do not see, they do not know, that they have the protection of Him who has traveled the road with them. With their pilgrim staff in hand, they press on, desiring to go faster than they dare. They lose their track, but find it again. Sometimes running, sometimes stumbling, they press forward, their unseen Companion close beside them all the way.

DA 801.3

The night is dark, but the Sun of Righteousness is shining upon them. Their hearts leap for joy. They seem to be in a new world. Christ is a living Saviour. They no longer mourn over Him as dead. Christ is risen—over and over again they repeat it. This is the message they are carrying to the sorrowing ones. They must tell them the wonderful story of the walk to Emmaus. They must tell who joined them by the way. They carry the greatest message ever given to the world, a message of glad tidings upon which the hopes of the human family for time and for eternity depend.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 83—The Walk to Emmaus

HLv 530.1

Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two disciples were on their way to Emmaus, a little town eight miles from Jerusalem. These disciples had come to keep the Passover and were greatly perplexed by the events that had taken place. They had heard the news in regard to the removal of Christ’s body and also the report of the women who had seen the angels and had met Jesus. Now returning home, they were talking over the scenes of the trial and crucifixion. Never had they been so utterly disheartened.

HLv 530.2

On their journey they were joined by a stranger, but were so absorbed in their gloom that they did not observe him closely. They continued expressing the thoughts of their hearts, reasoning in regard to the lessons Christ had given, which they seemed unable to comprehend. Jesus longed to comfort them. He understood the conflicting, perplexing ideas that brought to their minds the thought, Can this Man, who suffered Himself to be so humiliated, be the Christ? They wept. Jesus longed to wipe away their tears and fill them with joy and gladness. But He must first give them lessons they would never forget.

HLv 530.3

“He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” They told Him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, “which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,” but “the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him.” With quivering lips they added, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done.”

HLv 531.1

Strange that they did not remember Christ’s words, and that He had foretold that the third day He would rise again. The priests and rulers did not forget!

HLv 531.2

“Then He said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?” Who could this be, that He should speak with such earnestness and sympathy? For the first time, they began to feel hopeful. Often they looked earnestly at their companion, and thought that His words were just the words that Christ would have spoken.

HLv 531.3

Beginning at Moses, the Alpha of Bible history, Christ expounded in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Had He first made Himself known to them, they would have hungered for nothing more. But it was necessary for them to understand the types and prophecies of the Old Testament. On these their faith must be established. Christ performed no miracle to convince them; it was His first work to explain the Scriptures. He showed from the prophets that His death was the strongest evidence for their faith.

HLv 531.4

Jesus showed the importance of the Old Testament as a witness to His mission. The Saviour is revealed in the Old Testament as clearly as in the New. Light from the prophetic past brings out the life of Christ and the teachings of the New Testament with clearness and beauty. Stronger proof than the miracles of Christ is found in comparing the prophecies of the Old Testament with the history of the New.

HLv 531.5

The disciples’ expectation of a Messiah who was to take His throne and kingly power in accordance with the desires of men had been misleading. His disciples must understand in regard to the cup of suffering that had been apportioned Him. He showed them that the awful conflict was the fulfillment of the covenant made before the foundation of the world. Christ must die, as every transgressor of the law must die if he continues in sin. All this was to be, but it was not to end in defeat, but in glorious victory. Jesus told them that every effort must be made to save the world from sin. His followers must live as He lived, and work as He worked, with persevering effort.

HLv 532.1

Thus Christ discoursed to His disciples, that they might understand the Scriptures. As He told them of the overthrow of Jerusalem, they looked on the doomed city with weeping. But little did they suspect yet who their traveling companion was, for Christ referred to Himself as though He were another person. He walked as carefully as they over the rough stones, now and then halting with them for a little rest.

HLv 532.2

During their journey the sun had gone down and the laborers in the fields had left their work. As the disciples were about to enter their home, the stranger appeared as though He would continue His journey. But the disciples hungered to hear more from Him. “Abide with us,” they urged. He did not seem to accept the invitation, but they pressed Him. “It is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” Christ yielded to this entreaty and “went in to tarry with them.”

HLv 532.3

Had the disciples failed to press their invitation, they would not have known that their traveling companion was the risen Lord. Christ never forces His company on anyone. Gladly will He enter the humblest home, but if men are too indifferent to ask Him to stay with them, He passes on.

HLv 532.4

The simple evening meal was soon prepared and placed before the Guest, who had taken His seat at the head of the table. Now He put forth His hands to bless the food in exactly the same way as their Master used to do. The disciples started back in astonishment. They looked again and saw in His hands the print of nails. Both exclaimed, It is the Lord Jesus!

HLv 533.1

They rose to cast themselves at His feet, but He had vanished. They looked at the place occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, and said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?”

HLv 533.2

With this great news to communicate, their weariness and hunger were gone. They left their meal untasted and hurried on the same path by which they had come, to tell the disciples in the city. They climbed over steep places, slipping on smooth rocks, desiring to go faster than they dared. They lost the track, but found it again. Sometimes running, sometimes stumbling, they pressed forward, their unseen Companion beside them all the way.

HLv 533.3

The night was dark, but the Sun of Righteousness was shining upon them. They seemed to be in a new world. Christ is risen—over and over they repeated it. They must tell the sorrowing ones the wonderful story of the walk to Emmaus. They must tell who joined them by the way. They carried the greatest message ever given—glad tidings on which the hopes of the human family for time and eternity depend.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 80, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 1

“And as they thus spake, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.” “And ye are witnesses of these things.” Luke 24:36, 48.

4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 7

Then as two disciples were on their way to Emmaus, traveling up the rugged mountains and rocky steeps, they conversed together as they walked and were sad. But there came one to their side and said, “Why are ye sad?” [Luke 24:17.] But we will turn and read it:

4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 12

“And He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” Luke 24:13-17.

4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 14

“And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto Him, Art Thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? ... Then He said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken.” Verses 18, 25.

4LtMs, Ms 80, 1886, par. 19

They find the door locked for fear of the Jews. But they knock until they gain an entrance, and then they tell their story, how that Christ had risen and had walked with them as they were on their way to Emmaus. The disciples cannot believe the gracious words spoken, but as soon as they were through with their testimony, lo, there was Another standing in their midst. They had not heard the door open, they had heard no knocking; but who was this stranger? It was Jesus Himself. They thought it was a spirit, and they were afraid. But Christ said unto them, “Peace be unto you.” “And He said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself: handle Me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones as ye see Me have. And when He had thus spoken, He showed them His hands and His feet.” Verses 36-40.

Homeward Bound

Side by Side, January 15

HB 30.1

So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them.—Luke 24:15.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 110, 1901

2SAT 171.6

While they were talking thus of their crucified and buried Lord, “Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know Him. And He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” ( Luke 24:15-17). “Have ye not heard,” they answered, “that the prophet mighty in deed and word has been taken and crucified by cruel hands, and is now buried?” Beginning at Genesis, the Stranger told them what had been prophesied from the first concerning Jesus. While He was comforting their hearts, they came to the house where they lived, and invited their Companion to come in. He acted as though He were going farther, but they constrained Him to tarry with them.

Reflecting Christ

Reveal the Preciousness of Jesus, August 13

RC 239.1

And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.... And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures? Luke 24:15-32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 110, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, par. 6

While they were talking thus of their crucified and buried Lord, “Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” [Luke 24:15-17.] “Have ye not heard,” they answered, “that the prophet mighty in deed and word has been taken and crucified by cruel hands, and is now buried?” Beginning at Genesis, the Stranger told them what had been prophesied from the first concerning Jesus. While He was comforting their hearts, they came to the house where they lived, and invited their Companion to come in. He acted as though He were going further, but they constrained Him to tarry with them.

16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, par. 8

They rose to cast themselves at His feet and worship Him, but He had vanished out of their sight. Looking at the place that had been occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, they said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.]

16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, par. 10

Then the two disciples told their experience. They said that Christ had walked with them, and that their hearts had burned within them while He opened the Scriptures to their understanding. Still some could not believe that their Lord had indeed risen. Some were saying that they could not believe the story, when behold, another person stands before them. Every eye turned to the stranger. Then the disciples heard the voice of their Master. Clear and distinct the words fell from His lips, “Peace be unto you.” [Verse 36.]

16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, par. 11

“But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.” [Verses 36-39.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 45, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 25

When Christ permitted Himself to be put to death, His disciples were greatly disappointed, “for as yet they knew not the Scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.” [John 20:9.] On the day of His resurrection, two of His disciples, as they walked toward Emmaus, were reasoning on these things. When we honestly seek to understand the revelation of God, Christ is ready to come to our help. As these two “communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. ... And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:15, 27.]

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 26

Later on He appeared to the disciples in Jerusalem, and opened “their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be imbued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 45-53.]

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 28—Witnesses

SJ 163.4

“And He said unto them, What things? And they said unto Him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people.” Luke 24:16-19.

SJ 163.7

“And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:25-27.

SJ 164.3

So they said to Him, “Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And He went in to tarry with them.” Luke 24:28, 29.

SJ 165.2

As they were relating these things to the disciples, Christ Himself stood among them, and, with hands uplifted in blessing, said: “Peace be unto you.” Luke 24:36.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 167, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 2

Did they hide it? Our Saviour fixed that matter. He tarried forty days and forty nights upon the earth, and here He revealed Himself from time to time. You remember the history of those disciples who were so full of sorrow. They had heard the report, but they did not believe a word of it, that Christ was risen. They were going in a short distance, and they started on their way and were telling of their grief and of their sorrow. Who came right by their side? Who was it? I hear you speaking one to another. He says, “What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” “Why,” said they, “haven’t you heard that Jesus Christ, a man mighty in word and deed, they have taken Him and have crucified Him, and the message comes that He is risen again?” [Luke 24:17-23.] But they cannot believe anything about that. Then He took the Scriptures and opened to them the Scriptures, and there He showed them the testimony of the Scriptures.

19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 3

He gave the Scriptures to them, and their hearts began to be light, that all these things that were prophesied would come to Him. They did not know who He was. “A man mighty in word and deed,” they could report. [Verse 19.] But as they came to where their journey ended, they were in such distress of mind, they felt that they must do something. Christ was going right on, and they invited Him to come in and to tarry with them, to eat with them, and as they sat at the table to break bread, they looked with perfect astonishment as He asked the blessing, and they understood the motion of His hand, and what else did they see? The marks of the crucifixion, and they cried out, “My Lord and my God.” But He was not there. He left them, and they started on their way.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 113a, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 4

“What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” he asked. “And one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” They told him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, “how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.” With hearts sore with disappointment, and with quivering lips, they said, “We trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel, and besides all this, today is the third day since these things were done.” [Luke 24:17-21.]

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 6

“Then said he unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Ought not Christ have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” [Luke 24:25, 26.] The disciples wondered what this stranger could know, that he should speak with such earnestness, tenderness, sympathy, and hopefulness, and why his words should penetrate to their very souls. For the first time since the betrayal in the garden, they began to feel hopeful. They looked earnestly at their companion, and thought that his words were just the words that Christ would have spoken. They were filled with amazement, and their hearts began to throb with expectation, hope, and joy.

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 10

Thus the travelers proceeded, making their way over the rough places in the road, while the One who was soon to take his position at the right hand of God, and who could now say, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth,” walked beside them. [Matthew 28:18.] During the journey the sun had gone down, and before the disciples reached their place of rest, the laborers in the fields had left their work. As they were about to enter their house, the stranger appeared as though he would continue his journey. But the disciples felt drawn to him. Their souls hungered to hear more from him. “Abide with us,” they said; “for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” Without making any excuse Christ responded to the invitation. “He went in to tarry with them.” [Luke 24:29.]

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 12

The disciples and their guest enter the house, and the simple evening meal is prepared. It is placed before the guest, and he stretches forth his hands to bless the food. Why do the disciples start back in astonishment? Their companion spreads forth his hands in exactly the same way as their Master used to do. They look again, and lo, they see in his hands the print of nails. Both exclaim at once, It is the Lord Jesus. He has risen from the dead. They rise to cast themselves at his feet and worship him. But he has vanished out of their sight. They look at the space which has been occupied by One whose body has lately lain in the grave, and say to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Verse 32.]

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 16

The two travelers find all in surprised excitement. The voices of those in the room break out into thanksgiving and praise, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared unto Simon.” [Verse 34.] Then the travelers, panting with the haste with which they made their journey, tell the wondrous story of how as they were journeying along full of hopelessness and discouragement, they were joined by a stranger. With wonder and hope filling their hearts, they relate how he opened the Scriptures to them, and how they invited him to abide with them. They tell how as their guest extended his hands to bless the food placed before him, they recognized him. Their eyes were indeed opened. They saw the marks of the nails, and rose up to worship their risen Lord, but he vanished out of their sight.

12LtMs, Ms 113a, 1897, par. 17

They have just finished their story, and some are saying that they cannot believe it; for it is too good to be true, when, behold, another person stands before them. Every eye is fastened upon the stranger. No one has knocked for entrance. No footstep has been heard. The disciples are startled, and wonder what it can mean. Then they hear a voice that is no other than the familiar voice of their Master. Clear and distinct the words fall from his lips, “Peace be unto you.” [Verse 36.]

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 11, 1893

2SAT 99.3

Afterward, as two of His big disciples journeyed toward Emmaus, they were telling of their troubles, instead of searching the Scriptures to see if these things were so. They were talking with one another, and were sad. Jesus drew near. Their faith was so small they had not expected Him, and did not recognize Him. He said “What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad” (Luke 24:17)? They turned to Him and said “Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? And He said unto them, What things? And they said unto Him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him” (Luke 24:18-20).

2SAT 99.4

While treading the rough way with them, He was opening the prophecies to them. They did not understand the Scriptures. It drew toward evening, and as Jesus was about to pass on farther than their abiding place, how tenderly they invited Him to abide with them, “for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent” (verse 29).

2SAT 99.5

How tenderly they felt toward the One who was reviving their hopes. In His conversation with them He said “O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory” (verses 25, 26)? “All,” not a little here and there.

2SAT 100.1

These disciples could not endure to be separated from Him who had instructed them, but they wanted more, so they constrained Him to abide with them. As He sat at meat with them, and took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them, He raised His hands. They noticed it was the motions of Christ, and in His hands they saw the signs of the crucifixion. “And their eyes were opened, and they knew Him; and he vanished out of their sight” (verse 31).

2SAT 100.4

Why did He not work a miracle before them instead of opening the Scriptures to their minds? “And He said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalm, concerning Me. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, “And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (verses 46, 47). How precious was the presence of Jesus to them! He was with them forty days and forty nights before His ascension.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 11, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 11, 1893, par. 2

A report came that the Saviour had risen, but they did not believe it. If they had searched the Scriptures, their hopes would not have been buried in the tomb with Jesus. Their minds had hardly grasped the idea of a Saviour suffering. Afterward, as two of His big disciples journeyed toward Emmaus, they were telling of their troubles, instead of searching the Scriptures to see if these things were so. They were talking with one another, and were sad. Jesus drew near. Their faith was so small they had not expected Him, and did not recognize Him. He said, “What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” (Luke 24:17) They turned to Him and said, “Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.” Luke 24:18-20. While treading the rough way with them, He was opening the prophecies to them. They did not understand the Scriptures. It drew toward evening, and as Jesus was about to pass on farther than their abiding place, how tenderly they invited Him to abide with them, “for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” Luke 24:29.

8LtMs, Ms 11, 1893, par. 3

How tenderly they felt toward the One who was reviving their hopes. In His conversation with them He said, “O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” (Luke 24:25, 26) “All,” not a little here and there. These disciples could not endure to be separated from Him who had instructed them, but they wanted more, so they constrained Him to abide with them. As He sat at meat with them, and took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them, He raised His hands. They noticed it was the motions of Christ, and in His hands they saw the signs of the crucifixion. “And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.” Luke 24:31.

8LtMs, Ms 11, 1893, par. 6

Why did He not work a miracle before them instead of opening the Scriptures to their minds? “And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Luke 24:44-47. How precious was the presence of Jesus to them! He was with them forty days and forty nights before His ascension.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 113, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 5

“He said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have with one another, as ye walk, and are sad? And one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass in these days?” They told Him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, “how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.” With hearts sore with disappointment, and with quivering lips, they said, “We trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel, and besides all this, today is the third day since these things were done.” [Luke 24:17, 18, 20, 21.]

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 7

“Then said he unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” [Luke 24:25, 26.] The disciples wondered what this stranger could know that He should penetrate to their very souls and speak with such earnestness, tenderness, sympathy, and with such hopefulness. For the first time since Christ’s betrayal in the garden, they began to feel hopeful. Often they looked earnestly at their companion, and thought that His words were just the words that Christ would have spoken. They were filled with amazement, and their hearts began to throb with expectation, hope, and joy.

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 8

Beginning at Moses, the very Alpha of history concerning Himself, Christ “expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Verse 27.] There are many who discount Old Testament history. They advocate the idea that the New Testament takes the place of the Old, and that therefore the Old Testament is no longer of any use. But Christ’s first work with His disciples was to begin at the Alpha of the Old Testament to prove that He was to come to this world and pass through the experiences that had taken place in His incarnation. The rejection of the Son of God was plainly seen by the prophets.

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 11

During the journey the sun had gone down, and before the travellers reached their place of rest, the laborers in the fields had left their work. As the disciples were about to enter their house, the Stranger appeared as though He would continue His journey. But the disciples felt drawn to Him. Their souls hungered to hear more from Him. “Abide with us,” they said, “for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” Christ responded to the invitation without making any excuses. “He went in to tarry with them.” [Luke 24:29.]

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 14

They rise to cast themselves at His feet and worship Him. But He has vanished out of their sight. They look at the space which had been occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, and say to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and opened to us the Scriptures?” [Verse 32.]

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 18

The travellers find all in surprised excitement. The voices of those in the room break out into thanksgiving and praise, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared unto Simon.” [Verse 34.] Then the travellers, panting with the haste with which they have made their journey, tell the wondrous story of how, as they were journeying along full of discouragement and hopelessness, they were joined by a Stranger. With wonder and hope, they relate how He opened the Scriptures to them, and how they invited Him to abide with them. They tell how they prepared the evening meal, and when, as their Guest had extended His hands to bless the food, they recognize Him. Their eyes were indeed opened. They saw the marks of the nails, and rose up to worship Him, but He vanished out of their sight.

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 19

They have just finished their story, and some are saying that they could not believe it, for it is too good to be true, when behold, another person stands before them. Every eye is fastened upon the Stranger. No one has knocked for entrance. No footstep had been heard. The disciples are startled, and wonder what it means. Then they hear a voice which is no other than the familiar voice of their Master. Clear and distinct the words fall from His lips, “Peace be unto you.” [Verse 36.]

12LtMs, Ms 113, 1897, par. 22

That evening Christ showed His disciples His hands and His feet, that no doubt that he was the Christ might exist in their minds. “Behold my hands and my feet,” He said, “That it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and blood as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them. And he said unto them, These are the words that I spake unto you while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” [Luke 24:39-48.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 35, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 3

And we read in another place, They returned with great joy. [Luke 24:52.] Now what made that joy? Was it because their Lord was leaving them? No, it was not that. It was because of the promise that He would come again, and that the Holy Spirit should come upon them.

7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 8

When Christ met with the men as they were traveling to Emmaus, they saw in Christ only a man toiling, traveling, like themselves; but He was the resurrected Son of God. And He asked why they were so sad, why they were conversing in such sadness. Why, they asked of this Stranger, are you only a stranger in Jerusalem, and do you not know what has taken place, that Christ, a mighty Man, a prophet that was mighty in power—why, wicked hands have taken and crucified Him? And then Christ opened to them the Scriptures, commencing at Moses and the prophets. He went right down and traced His very history, the Christ of God, and showed them that everything that had transpired was written there in the Scriptures and laid [them] open to their understanding [Luke 24:17-27]; but they could not take it in.

7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 10

When we search the Scriptures with humble heart, when we take right hold of the truth as it is in its simplicity, lying open in the Bible, when we believe it to be verity and truth, the heart will warm, it will kindle with the love of God, and from our hearts we can say, “burn within us.” [Verse 32.] We realize that again and again. When in the institutions where they have been studying the Scriptures, how the tears would flow, and what gladness would be in the heart! There was not a particle of enthusiasm, only just that which was received by the precious jewels of truth that were unfolded to the hearers. This is what we want. We want the Bible for our standard.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 198, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 3

When Christ met the disciples on their way to Emmaus, they were greatly troubled in mind, and they were surprised that He inquired the cause of this. (Luke 24:18): “And he said unto them, What things?” [Verse 19.] And after they had described the events over which they were so troubled He upbraided them for their unbelief, saying, “O fools,” Luke 24:25-27.

13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 4

Arriving at their destination Jesus made as if He would pass along, but they invited Him to abide with them, and He went in with them. Would it not be well for us to give the heavenly Messenger that same invitation? Shall we not desire Him to “abide with us”? [Verse 29.] Jesus is passing by today. He is nigh at hand. When we invite Him to remain with us, He in turn bids us to the Gospel feast. O let us heed the call, “Come for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.]

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

MR No. 999—Christ as Sacrifice and High Priest

12MR 420.2

With the death of Christ the hopes of the disciples had perished. Often they repeated the words, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel” [Luke 24:21]. Lonely and sick at heart, they remembered Christ’s words, “If they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” [Luke 23:31]. They met together in the upper chamber, and closed and fastened the doors, knowing that the fate of their beloved Teacher might at any time be theirs.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 111, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 111, 1897, par. 63

With the death of Christ the hopes of the disciples had perished. Often they repeated the words, “We trusted that it should have been he that should have redeemed Israel.” Lonely and sick at heart, they remembered Christ’s words, “If they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in a dry?” [Luke 24:21; 23:31.] They met together in the upper chamber, and closed and fastened the doors, knowing that the fate of their beloved Teacher might at any time be theirs.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 52, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 52, 1897, par. 24

Christ heard all these sentiments expressed in regard to Him. And He listened for any word that might be spoken by His disciples; but they were too much astonished and broken-hearted and discouraged to speak words of faith. The mournful words fell with distinctness on the ears of Christ, “We hoped that it had been he that should have redeemed Israel.” [Luke 24:21.] Yes, there hangs the body of our Lord in His dying agony, the subject of all kinds of remarks. [In spite of] the triumph of Satan and his angels, in union with the chief priests, the scribes and rulers, the failure of the faith of His own beloved disciples in Him as the Messiah, as One, who in all other eyes appeared to be conquered, [He] was a Conqueror, [and] He is seen and acknowledged as the sin-pardoning Saviour.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 3—The Great Commission

AA 25.1

After the death of Christ the disciples were well-nigh overcome by discouragement. Their Master had been rejected, condemned, and crucified. The priests and rulers had declared scornfully, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.” Matthew 27:42. The sun of the disciples’ hope had set, and night settled down upon their hearts. Often they repeated the words, “We trusted that it had been He which should have redeemed Israel.” Luke 24:21. Lonely and sick at heart, they remembered His words, “If they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?” Luke 23:31.

AA 26.2

For forty days Christ remained on the earth, preparing the disciples for the work before them and explaining that which heretofore they had been unable to comprehend. He spoke of the prophecies concerning His advent, His rejection by the Jews, and His death, showing that every specification of these prophecies had been fulfilled. He told them that they were to regard this fulfillment of prophecy as an assurance of the power that would attend them in their future labors. “Then opened He their understanding,” we read, “that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” And He added, “Ye are witnesses of these things.” Luke 24:45-48.

AA 30.2

Christ’s visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness, sealing them for their work. “Behold,” the Saviour said, “I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:49. “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:5, 8.

AA 32.2

When the time came for Christ to ascend to His Father, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany. Here He paused, and they gathered about Him. With hands outstretched in blessing, as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them. “It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” Luke 24:51.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 41, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 31

When Christ overtook the disciples as they journeyed to Emmaus, and were sad, and after telling their pitiful story, Jesus reproved them for their unbelief and slowness of heart “to believe all that the prophets have spoken.” “And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:25, 27.] And when their eyes were opened to know that it had been Christ Himself that had been talking with them, they said one to another, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Verse 32.]

Christ Triumphant

The Disciples Enlightened on Christ’s Identity, October 16

CTr 296.1

And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:27.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness

GC88 349.1

After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples on the way to Emmaus, and “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:27.] The hearts of the disciples were stirred. Faith was kindled. They were “begotten again unto a lively hope,” even before Jesus revealed himself to them. It was his purpose to enlighten their understanding, and to fasten their faith upon the “sure word of prophecy.” He wished the truth to take firm root in their minds, not merely because it was supported by his personal testimony, but because of the unquestionable evidence presented by the symbols and shadows of the typical law, and by the prophecies of the Old Testament. It was needful for the followers of Christ to have an intelligent faith, not only in their own behalf, but that they might carry the knowledge of Christ to the world. And as the very first step in imparting this knowledge, Jesus directed the disciples to “Moses and the prophets.” Such was the testimony given by the risen Saviour to the value and importance of the Old-Testament Scriptures.

GC88 349.2

What a change was wrought in the hearts of the disciples, as they looked once more on the loved countenance of their Master! [Luke 24:27.] In a more complete and perfect sense than ever before, they had “found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write.” The uncertainty, the anguish, the despair, gave place to perfect assurance, to unclouded faith. What marvel that after his ascension they “were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” The people, knowing only of the Saviour’s ignominious death, looked to see in their faces the expression of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. What a preparation these disciples had received for the work before them! They had passed through the deepest trial which it was possible for them to experience, and had seen how, when to human vision all was lost, the word of God had been triumphantly accomplished. Henceforward what could daunt their faith, or chill the ardor of their love? In the keenest sorrow they had “strong consolation,” a hope which was as “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast.” [Hebrews 6:18, 19.] They had been witness to the wisdom and power of God, and they were “persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature” would be able to separate them from “the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” “In all these things,” they said, “we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.” [Romans 8:38, 39, 37.] “The Word of the Lord endureth forever.” [1 Peter 1:25.] And “who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” [Romans 8:34.]

To Be Like Jesus

Accept the Bible as the Foundation of All Faith, April 23

BLJ 123.3

The subject of Christ’s teaching and preaching was the Word of God. He met questioners with a plain “It is written.” “What saith the Scriptures?” “How readest thou?” At every opportunity, when an interest was awakened by either friend or foe, He sowed the seed of the Word. He who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Himself the living Word, points to the Scriptures, saying, “They are they which testify of me” (John 5:39). And “beginning at Moses and all the prophets,” He opened to His disciples “in all the scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27).

From Heaven With Love

Prophet Daniel Foretold Christ’s Ministry

HLv 148.3

The time of Christ’s coming, His death, and the giving of the gospel to the Gentiles were definitely pointed out. It was the privilege of the Jews to understand these prophecies and to recognize their fulfillment in the mission of Jesus. Referring to the prophecy given to Daniel in regard to their time, Christ said, “Whoso readeth, let him understand.” Matthew 24:15. After His resurrection He explained to the disciples in “all the prophets” “the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. The Saviour had spoken through the prophets and “testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.” 1 Peter 1:11.

From Here to Forever

“The Time Is Fulfilled”

HF 217.2

After His resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples on the way to Emmaus, and, “expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” It was His purpose to fasten their faith upon the “sure word of prophecy” (Luke 24:27; 2 Peter 1:19), not merely by His personal testimony, but by the prophecies of the Old Testament. And as the very first step in imparting this knowledge, Jesus directed the disciples to “Moses and all the prophets” of the Old Testament Scriptures.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 71, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, par. 13

The work of the Holy Spirit is to bring men to repentance by revealing truth. Not new truth alone, but old truth, which has been forgotten and buried up, is to be presented to man in a forcible light. “He shall testify of me,” said Christ of the Holy Spirit. [John 15:26.] “He shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:14.] “He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [John 14:26.] After His resurrection, Christ appeared to the two disciples as they travelled to Emmaus, “and beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 69, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 69, 1897, par. 52

The first instruction given to the disciples after the resurrection of our Lord was the instruction given by Him to the disciples as they walked together to Emmaus. “Beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:27.] He was the one of whom Moses and the prophets had written, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He came from God to be the light of the world, He spoke as one having authority, and not as the Jews.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Originator, June 17

JNN 180.1

And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.—Luke 24:27

JNN 180.4

In every age there is a new development of truth, a message of God to the people of that generation. The old truths are all essential; new truth is not independent of the old, but an unfolding of it. It is only as the old truths are understood that we can comprehend the new. When Christ desired to open to His disciples the truth of His resurrection, He began “at Moses and all the prophets” and “expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself” (Luke 24:27). But it is the light which shines in the fresh unfolding of truth that glorifies the old. He who rejects or neglects the new does not really possess the old. For him it loses its vital power and becomes but a lifeless form.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 11—Things New and Old

COL 127.4

In every age there is a new development of truth, a message of God to the people of that generation. The old truths are all essential; new truth is not independent of the old, but an unfolding of it. It is only as the old truths are understood that we can comprehend the new. When Christ desired to open to His disciples the truth of His resurrection, He began “at Moses and all the prophets” and “expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. But it is the light which shines in the fresh unfolding of truth that glorifies the old. He who rejects or neglects the new does not really possess the old. For him it loses its vital power and becomes but a lifeless form.

Lift Him Up

The Root and Fruit, October 19

LHU 306.4

In every age there is a new development of truth, a message of God to the people of that generation. The old truths are all essential; new truth is not independent of the old, but an unfolding of it. It is only as the old truths are understood that we can comprehend the new. When Christ desired to open to His disciples the truth of His resurrection, He began “at Moses and all the prophets,” and “expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27). But it is the light which shines in the fresh unfolding of truth that glorifies the old. He who rejects or neglects the new does not really possess the old. For him it loses its vital power and becomes but a lifeless form.

Sons and Daughters of God

In the Study of the Scriptures, May 7

SD 134.1

And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:27.

That I May Know Him

Central Theme of the Scriptures, July 21

TMK 208.1

And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:27.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 22—Thessalonica

AA 221.2

In preaching to the Thessalonians, Paul appealed to the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Christ in His ministry had opened the minds of His disciples to these prophecies; “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. Peter in preaching Christ had produced his evidence from the Old Testament. Stephen had pursued the same course. And Paul also in his ministry appealed to the scriptures foretelling the birth, sufferings, death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. By the inspired testimony of Moses and the prophets he clearly proved the identity of Jesus of Nazareth with the Messiah and showed that from the days of Adam it was the voice of Christ which had been speaking through patriarchs and prophets.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 23—“The Kingdom of God Is at Hand”

DA 234.1

The time of Christ’s coming, His anointing by the Holy Spirit, His death, and the giving of the gospel to the Gentiles, were definitely pointed out. It was the privilege of the Jewish people to understand these prophecies, and to recognize their fulfillment in the mission of Jesus. Christ urged upon His disciples the importance of prophetic study. Referring to the prophecy given to Daniel in regard to their time, He said, “Whoso readeth, let him understand.” Matthew 24:15. After His resurrection He explained to the disciples in “all the prophets” “the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. The Saviour had spoken through all the prophets. “The Spirit of Christ which was in them” “testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.” 1 Peter 1:11.

Christ in His Sanctuary

The Experience of the Apostles Provides an Object Lesson

CIHS 109.2

After His resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples on the way to Emmaus, and, “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. The hearts of the disciples were stirred. Faith was kindled. They were “begotten again into a lively hope” even before Jesus revealed Himself to them. It was His purpose to enlighten their understanding and to fasten their faith upon the “sure word of prophecy.” He wished the truth to take firm root in their minds, not merely because it was supported by His personal testimony, but because of the unquestionable evidence presented by the symbols and shadows of the typical law, and by the prophecies of the Old Testament. It was needful for the followers of Christ to have an intelligent faith, not only in their own behalf, but that they might carry the knowledge of Christ to the world. And as the very first step in imparting this knowledge, Jesus directed the disciples to “Moses and all the prophets.” Such was the testimony given by the risen Saviour to the value and importance of the Old Testament Scriptures.

CIHS 110.1

What a change was wrought in the hearts of the disciples as they looked once more on the loved countenance of their Master! Luke 24:32. In a more complete and perfect sense than ever before they had “found Him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write.” The uncertainty, the anguish, the despair, gave place to perfect assurance, to unclouded faith. What marvel that after His ascension they “were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” The people, knowing only of the Saviour’s ignominious death, looked to see in their faces the expression of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. What a preparation these disciples had received for the work before them!...

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 2—“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”

COL 38.3

The teachers of Israel were not sowing the seed of the word of God. Christ’s work as a teacher of truth was in marked contrast to that of the rabbis of His time. They dwelt upon traditions, upon human theories and speculations. Often that which man had taught and written about the word, they put in place of the word itself. Their teaching had no power to quicken the soul. The subject of Christ’s teaching and preaching was the word of God. He met questioners with a plain, “It is written.” “What saith the Scriptures?” “How readest thou?” At every opportunity, when an interest was awakened by either friend or foe, He sowed the seed of the word. He who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Himself the living Word, points to the Scriptures, saying, “They are they which testify of Me.” And “beginning at Moses and all the prophets,” He opened to His disciples “in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” John 5:39; Luke 24:27.

COL 40.1

The Bible has been robbed of its power, and the results are seen in a lowering of the tone of spiritual life. In the sermons from many pulpits of today there is not that divine manifestation which awakens the conscience and brings life to the soul. The hearers can not say, “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32. There are many who are crying out for the living God, longing for the divine presence. Philosophical theories or literary essays, however brilliant, cannot satisfy the heart. The assertions and inventions of men are of no value. Let the word of God speak to the people. Let those who have heard only traditions and human theories and maxims hear the voice of Him whose word can renew the soul unto everlasting life.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness

GC 349.1

After His resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples on the way to Emmaus, and, “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:27. The hearts of the disciples were stirred. Faith was kindled. They were “begotten again into a lively hope” even before Jesus revealed Himself to them. It was His purpose to enlighten their understanding and to fasten their faith upon the “sure word of prophecy.” He wished the truth to take firm root in their minds, not merely because it was supported by His personal testimony, but because of the unquestionable evidence presented by the symbols and shadows of the typical law, and by the prophecies of the Old Testament. It was needful for the followers of Christ to have an intelligent faith, not only in their own behalf, but that they might carry the knowledge of Christ to the world. And as the very first step in imparting this knowledge, Jesus directed the disciples to “Moses and all the prophets.” Such was the testimony given by the risen Saviour to the value and importance of the Old Testament Scriptures.

GC 349.2

What a change was wrought in the hearts of the disciples as they looked once more on the loved countenance of their Master! Luke 24:32. In a more complete and perfect sense than ever before they had “found Him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write.” The uncertainty, the anguish, the despair, gave place to perfect assurance, to unclouded faith. What marvel that after His ascension they “were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” The people, knowing only of the Saviour’s ignominious death, looked to see in their faces the expression of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. What a preparation these disciples had received for the work before them! They had passed through the deepest trial which it was possible for them to experience, and had seen how, when to human vision all was lost, the word of God had been triumphantly accomplished. Henceforward what could daunt their faith or chill the ardor of their love? In the keenest sorrow they had “strong consolation,” a hope which was as “an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast.” Hebrews 6:18, 19. They had been witness to the wisdom and power of God, and they were “persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature,” would be able to separate them from “the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” “In all these things,” they said, “we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.” Romans 8:38, 39, 37. “The word of the Lord endureth forever.” 1 Peter 1:25. And “who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:34.

Christian Education

Chapter 10—The Science of Salvation the First of Sciences

CE 87.1

The reason that many professed Christians do not have a clear, well-defined experience, is that they do not think it is their privilege to understand what God has spoken through his word. After the resurrection of Jesus, two of his disciples were journeying toward Emmaus, and Jesus joined them. But they did not recognize their Lord, and thought he was some stranger, although “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them. And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. And they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures? ... Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.” [Luke 24:27-32, 45.] This is the work that we may look to Christ to do for us; for what the Lord has revealed, is for us and our children forever.

Christ Triumphant

Jesus Reveals Himself to the Disciples, October 17

CTr 297.1

And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. Luke 24:30, 31.

From the Heart

God Speaks to Us, January 17

FH 29.1

Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us? Luke 24:32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 11, 1875

2LtMs, Lt 11, 1875, par. 1

Last night I spoke to our brethren and sisters in Oakland. There was a good attendance. Sister Rowland was present from San Francisco. She brought two strangers with her. There were several other strangers present. I had great freedom in speaking upon the two disciples traveling to Emmaus and Jesus walking with them. “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us by the way and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.] Everyone present listened as if spellbound. After I had spoken till half past eight, I invited all who desired that Jesus should abide with them, as did the two disciples who journeyed to Emmaus, to come forward; all who felt that Jesus was not present with them, and they longed for His company, to manifest it by coming forward.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 51, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 51, 1890, par. 36

Let the church, in the place of talking of “the old Jewish law,” consider, when making a tirade against that law, that their words of contempt are poured forth against Christ, who was the foundation of it all. He gave the specifications of all their rites, which typified the great and glorious reality. The order and working efficiency of the church are to far exceed those of the Jewish church, inasmuch as their light—the glory of the reality—is the advanced light, for the character and wonderful work of their redemption is laid out in clear lines. Christ did die for the world. Christ was buried in Joseph’s new tomb. Christ did lay down His life and take it again. He is not now in Joseph’s new tomb, but He has risen, was revealed to His disciples, walked with them, and opened to them the Scriptures concerning Himself, beginning at Moses and the prophets. He opened their understanding to discern the glory of the former dispensation as they had never looked upon it before, so that they said, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures” concerning Himself? Luke 24:32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 31, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 31, 1891, par. 19

There are rich treasures in the Word of God that can be discovered only by sinking the shaft deep into the mine of truth. The Scriptures are given for our benefit that we may have instruction in righteousness. Precious rays of light have been obscured by the clouds of error, but Christ is ready to sweep away the mists of error and superstition and to reveal to us the brightness of the Father’s glory, so that we shall say as did the disciples, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way?” [Luke 24:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 27, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 27, 1894, par. 12

They are filled with admiration, and their hearts burn within them as did the hearts of the disciples, as they journeyed from Jerusalem to Emmaus with a crucified but risen Saviour, who comforted their hearts as He opened to them the Scriptures. He showed them that their disappointment in relation to His mission and work had been a theme of prophecy, and that every specification had been fulfilled. When they had learned that the One who had walked and talked with them was no other than Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, they said one to another “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 94, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 94, 1896, par. 4

There are in this world hearts that are crying aloud for the living God. But helpless human nature has been fed with distasteful food; discourses dissatisfying to hungry, starving souls have been given in the churches. In these discourses there is not that divine manifestation that touches the mind and creates a glow in the soul. The hearers cannot say, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.] An abundance of chaff is given to the people, but this will not awaken the transgressor, or convict souls of sin. The souls who come to hear need a plain, straightforward presentation of truth. Those who have tasted of the Word of God have dwelt long in an atmosphere where there is no God, and they long for the divine presence.

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

MR No. 889—The Sanctuary Doctrine and the Shaking

11MR 207.2

We can appropriately say, as said the disciples when Jesus walked with them on their way to Emmaus after He had risen from the dead, Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. “And they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the scriptures?” (Luke 24:32).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 141, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 141, 1897, par. 39

Daniel and Revelation must be studied, as well as the other prophecies of the Old and New Testament. Let there be light, yes, light in your dwellings. For this we need to pray. The Holy Spirit, shining upon the sacred page, will open our understanding, that we may know what is truth. We can appropriately say, as said the disciples, when Jesus walked with them on their way to Emmaus after He had risen from the dead. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. And “they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.]

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 51—A Spiritual Revival

PK 626.1

Christians should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise, and this preparation they should make by diligently studying the word of God and striving to conform their lives to its precepts. The tremendous issues of eternity demand of us something besides an imaginary religion, a religion of words and forms, where truth is kept in the outer court. God calls for a revival and a reformation. The words of the Bible and the Bible alone, should be heard from the pulpit. But the Bible has been robbed of its power, and the result is seen in a lowering of the tone of spiritual life. In many sermons of today there is not that divine manifestation which awakens the conscience and brings life to the soul. The hearers cannot say, “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32. There are many who are crying out for the living God, longing for the divine presence. Let the word of God speak to the heart. Let those who have heard only tradition and human theories and maxims, hear the voice of Him who can renew the soul unto eternal life.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

How to Present the Message

6T 53.2

Everywhere there are hearts crying out for the living God. Discourses unsatisfying to the hungry soul have been given in the churches. In these discourses there is not that divine manifestation which touches the mind and creates a glow in the soul. The hearers cannot say: “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32. Much of the teaching given is powerless to awaken the transgressor or convict souls of sin. The people who come to hear the word need a plain, straightforward presentation of truth. Some who have once tasted of the word of God have dwelt long in an atmosphere where there is no God, and they long for the divine presence.

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 56—Eternal Truth

VSS 319.3

Plain Presentation of Truth—Everywhere there are hearts crying out for the living God. Discourses unsatisfying to the hungry soul have been given in the churches. In these discourses there is not that divine manifestation which touches the mind and creates a glow in the soul. The hearers cannot say: “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32. Much of the teaching given is powerless to awaken the transgressor or convict souls of sin. The people who come to hear the Word need a plain, straightforward presentation of truth.—Testimonies for the Church 6:53.

From Splendor to Shadow

We Are Entering the Last Battle of the Controversy

SS 323.2

God calls for a revival and a reformation. The words of the Bible alone should be heard from the pulpit. In many sermons today there is not that divine manifestation which awakens the conscience and brings life to the soul. The hearers cannot say, “Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” Luke 24:32. Let the word of God speak to the heart. Let those who have heard only tradition and human theories hear the voice of Him who can renew the soul unto eternal life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 8, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 8, 1898, par. 5

After His resurrection, unrecognized by His disciples, He opened to them the Scriptures relating to Himself. When He revealed Himself to them in the breaking of bread, they said, “Did not our hearts burn within us as he talked with us by the way, [and] when he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.] It was the truth, all full of riches, and precious, far more precious than the gold of Ophir, but their understanding had not been keen and unobstructed, so that they could take it in, and assimilate it to their spiritual needs.

13LtMs, Ms 8, 1898, par. 6

Many who have had the truth kept before them continually do not appreciate the Word. They do not regard it as the bread of life, upon which they are to feed day by day. They need the work of grace in their hearts, represented in the words, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Verse 45.] The heart must be opened, softened, subdued. Idols that have been cherished must be dethroned. Through their perceptive powers men must take hold of the Word, and appropriate the same to their spiritual necessities, eating of the bread of life, and drinking of the waters of salvation. Then they will grow spiritually. In its development, the truth will give evidence of constant expansion and new developments.

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

MR No. 1461—The Necessity of Studying the Word

20MR 178.4

To His disciples the Saviour promised the Holy Spirit, that He might recall His lessons to their minds. These would come to them as a new revelation, if they would remain humble and contrite in spirit. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones [Isaiah 57:15]. Christ told His disciples that He had many things to say to them, but they could not bear them yet. He left them in possession of truth, the value of which they had but a faint appreciation. After His resurrection, unrecognized by His disciples, He opened to them the Scriptures relating to himself. When He revealed himself to them in the breaking of bread, they said, Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way, and while He opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32]. It was the truth, all full of riches, and precious, far more precious than the gold of Ophir, but their understanding had not been keen and unobstructed so that they could take it in and assimilate it to their spiritual needs.

20MR 179.1

Many who have had the truth kept before them continually do not appreciate the Word. They do not regard it as the bread of life, upon which they are to feed day by day. They need the work of grace in their hearts represented in the words, “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures” [Luke 24:45]. The heart must be opened, softened, subdued. Idols that have been cherished must be dethroned. Through their perceptive powers men must take hold of the Word, and appropriate the same to their spiritual necessities, eating of the bread of life, and drinking of the waters of salvation. Then they will grow spiritually. In its development, the truth will give evidence of constant expansion and new developments.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Work and Baptism of Holy Spirit Needed

1SAT 171.1

[Acts 1:3, 12, quoted.] And we read in another place, “They returned to Jerusalem with great joy” [Luke 24:52]. Now, what made that joy? Was it because their Lord was leaving them? No, it was not that. It was because of the promise that He would come again, and that the Holy Spirit should come upon them.

1SAT 173.1

And when the disciples came to their place of abode, and they urged Christ to come in and abide with them because the day was far spent, in breaking of bread He revealed Himself unto them. They could, by the very manner in which He handled the bread, see the very marks—Christ’s ways—and then, lo, the cruel marks of His crucifixion; and then He vanished out of their sight. Now they turned to one another and said: “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” [Luke 24:32]. What was it that made the heart burn within them? It was the illuminating power that was in the Scriptures that quickened their faith.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 84—“Peace Be Unto You”

DA 802.1

On reaching Jerusalem the two disciples enter at the eastern gate, which is open at night on festal occasions. The houses are dark and silent, but the travelers make their way through the narrow streets by the light of the rising moon. They go to the upper chamber where Jesus spent the hours of the last evening before His death. Here they know that their brethren are to be found. Late as it is, they know that the disciples will not sleep till they learn for a certainty what has become of the body of their Lord. They find the door of the chamber securely barred. They knock for admission, but no answer comes. All is still. Then they give their names. The door is carefully unbarred, they enter, and Another, unseen, enters with them. Then the door is again fastened, to keep out spies.

DA 802.2

The travelers find all in surprised excitement. The voices of those in the room break out into thanksgiving and praise, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.” Then the two travelers, panting with the haste with which they have made their journey, tell the wondrous story of how Jesus has appeared to them. They have just ended, and some are saying that they cannot believe it, for it is too good to be true, when behold, another Person stands before them. Every eye is fastened upon the Stranger. No one has knocked for entrance. No footstep has been heard. The disciples are startled, and wonder what it means. Then they hear a voice which is no other than the voice of their Master. Clear and distinct the words fall from His lips, “Peace be unto you.”

DA 803.1

“But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And He said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself: handle Me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see Me have. And when He had thus spoken, He showed them His hands and His feet.”

DA 803.2

They beheld the hands and feet marred by the cruel nails. They recognized His voice, like no other they had ever heard. “And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, He said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And He took it, and did eat before them.” “Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.” Faith and joy took the place of unbelief, and with feelings which no words could express they acknowledged their risen Saviour.

DA 803.3

At the birth of Jesus the angel announced, Peace on earth, and good will to men. And now at His first appearance to the disciples after His resurrection, the Saviour addressed them with the blessed words, “Peace be unto you.” Jesus is ever ready to speak peace to souls that are burdened with doubts and fears. He waits for us to open the door of the heart to Him, and say, Abide with us. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20.

DA 804.1

The resurrection of Jesus was a type of the final resurrection of all who sleep in Him. The countenance of the risen Saviour, His manner, His speech, were all familiar to His disciples. As Jesus arose from the dead, so those who sleep in Him are to rise again. We shall know our friends, even as the disciples knew Jesus. They may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured, in this mortal life, and they rise in perfect health and symmetry; yet in the glorified body their identity will be perfectly preserved. Then shall we know even as also we are known. 1 Corinthians 13:12. In the face radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, we shall recognize the lineaments of those we love.

DA 804.2

When Jesus met with His disciples, He reminded them of the words He had spoken to them before His death, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalm concerning Him. “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.”

DA 805.1

The disciples began to realize the nature and extent of their work. They were to proclaim to the world the wonderful truths which Christ had entrusted to them. The events of His life, His death and resurrection, the prophecies that pointed to these events, the sacredness of the law of God, the mysteries of the plan of salvation, the power of Jesus for the remission of sins,—to all these things they were witnesses, and they were to make them known to the world. They were to proclaim the gospel of peace and salvation through repentance and the power of the Saviour.

DA 805.2

“And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” The Holy Spirit was not yet fully manifested; for Christ had not yet been glorified. The more abundant impartation of the Spirit did not take place till after Christ’s ascension. Not until this was received could the disciples fulfill the commission to preach the gospel to the world. But the Spirit was now given for a special purpose. Before the disciples could fulfill their official duties in connection with the church, Christ breathed His Spirit upon them. He was committing to them a most sacred trust, and He desired to impress them with the fact that without the Holy Spirit this work could not be accomplished.

DA 805.3

The Holy Spirit is the breath of spiritual life in the soul. The impartation of the Spirit is the impartation of the life of Christ. It imbues the receiver with the attributes of Christ. Only those who are thus taught of God, those who possess the inward working of the Spirit, and in whose life the Christ-life is manifested, are to stand as representative men, to minister in behalf of the church.

DA 805.4

“Whosesoever sins ye remit,” said Christ, “they are remitted; ... and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” Christ here gives no liberty for any man to pass judgment upon others. In the Sermon on the Mount He forbade this. It is the prerogative of God. But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty, to warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort,” the Lord says, “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. Deal faithfully with wrongdoing. Warn every soul that is in danger. Leave none to deceive themselves. Call sin by its right name. Declare what God has said in regard to lying, Sabbathbreaking, stealing, idolatry, and every other evil. “They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:21. If they persist in sin, the judgment you have declared from God’s word is pronounced upon them in heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown Christ; the church must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dishonors her Lord. She must say about sin what God says about it. She must deal with it as God directs, and her action is ratified in heaven. He who despises the authority of the church despises the authority of Christ Himself.

DA 806.1

But there is a brighter side to the picture. “Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted.” Let this thought be kept uppermost. In labor for the erring, let every eye be directed to Christ. Let the shepherds have a tender care for the flock of the Lord’s pasture. Let them speak to the erring of the forgiving mercy of the Saviour. Let them encourage the sinner to repent, and believe in Him who can pardon. Let them declare, on the authority of God’s word, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9. All who repent have the assurance, “He will have compassion upon us; He will subdue our iniquities; and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19.

DA 806.2

Let the repentance of the sinner be accepted by the church with grateful hearts. Let the repenting one be led out from the darkness of unbelief into the light of faith and righteousness. Let his trembling hand be placed in the loving hand of Jesus. Such a remission is ratified in heaven.

DA 806.3

Only in this sense has the church power to absolve the sinner. Remission of sins can be obtained only through the merits of Christ. To no man, to no body of men, is given power to free the soul from guilt. Christ charged His disciples to preach the remission of sins in His name among all nations; but they themselves were not empowered to remove one stain of sin. The name of Jesus is the only “name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

DA 806.4

When Jesus first met the disciples in the upper chamber, Thomas was not with them. He heard the reports of the others, and received abundant proof that Jesus had risen; but gloom and unbelief filled his heart. As he heard the disciples tell of the wonderful manifestations of the risen Saviour, it only plunged him in deeper despair. If Jesus had really risen from the dead, there could be no further hope of a literal earthly kingdom. And it wounded his vanity to think that his Master should reveal Himself to all the disciples except him. He was determined not to believe, and for a whole week he brooded over his wretchedness, which seemed all the darker in contrast with the hope and faith of his brethren.

DA 807.1

During this time he repeatedly declared, “Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe.” He would not see through the eyes of his brethren, or exercise faith which was dependent upon their testimony. He ardently loved his Lord, but he had allowed jealousy and unbelief to take possession of his mind and heart.

DA 807.2

A number of the disciples now made the familiar upper chamber their temporary home, and at evening all except Thomas gathered here. One evening Thomas determined to meet with the others. Notwithstanding his unbelief, he had a faint hope that the good news was true. While the disciples were taking their evening meal, they talked of the evidences which Christ had given them in the prophecies. “Then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.”

DA 807.3

Turning to Thomas He said, “Reach hither thy finger, and behold My hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into My side: and be not faithless, but believing.” These words showed that He was acquainted with the thoughts and words of Thomas. The doubting disciple knew that none of his companions had seen Jesus for a week. They could not have told the Master of his unbelief. He recognized the One before him as his Lord. He had no desire for further proof. His heart leaped for joy, and he cast himself at the feet of Jesus crying, “My Lord and my God.”

DA 807.4

Jesus accepted his acknowledgment, but gently reproved his unbelief: “Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” The faith of Thomas would have been more pleasing to Christ if he had been willing to believe upon the testimony of his brethren. Should the world now follow the example of Thomas, no one would believe unto salvation; for all who receive Christ must do so through the testimony of others.

DA 807.5

Many who are given to doubt excuse themselves by saying that if they had the evidence which Thomas had from his companions, they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only that evidence, but much more. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually become confirmed in unbelief. Those who educate themselves to look on the dark side, and murmur and complain, know not what they do. They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of doubt to reap. At a time when faith and confidence are most essential, many will thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.

DA 808.1

In His treatment of Thomas, Jesus gave a lesson for His followers. His example shows how we should treat those whose faith is weak, and who make their doubts prominent. Jesus did not overwhelm Thomas with reproach, nor did He enter into controversy with him. He revealed Himself to the doubting one. Thomas had been most unreasonable in dictating the conditions of his faith, but Jesus, by His generous love and consideration, broke down all the barriers. Unbelief is seldom overcome by controversy. It is rather put upon self-defense, and finds new support and excuse. But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be revealed as the crucified Saviour, and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgment of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 84—The Resurrected Christ Appears

HLv 534.1

On reaching Jerusalem the two disciples entered at the eastern gate, made their way through the narrow streets by the light of the rising moon, and went to the upper chamber where Jesus had spent the last evening before His death. Here they knew their brethren were to be found. The door was securely barred. They knocked for admission, but no answer came. All was still. Then they gave their names. The door was carefully unbarred, they entered, and Another, unseen, entered with them. Then the door was again fastened, to keep out spies.

HLv 534.2

The travelers found all in surprised excitement. Voices in the room said, “The Lord has risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon!” Then the two, panting with haste, told how Jesus had appeared to them. Some were saying that they could not believe it, for it was too good to be true, when another Person stood before them. No stranger had knocked for entrance, no footstep had been heard. The disciples were startled. Then they heard the voice of their Master, clear and distinct, “Peace be unto you.”

HLv 534.3

“But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And He said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? See My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself: handle Me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see Me have. And when He had thus spoken, He showed them His hands and His feet.”

HLv 534.4

“And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, He said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And He took it, and did eat before them.” “Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.” Faith took the place of unbelief, and they acknowledged their risen Saviour.

HLv 535.1

The countenance of the risen Saviour, His manner, His speech, were all familiar to His disciples. As Jesus arose from the dead, so those who sleep in Him are to rise again. We shall know our friends, as the disciples knew Jesus. In the glorified body their identity will be perfectly preserved. We shall recognize those we love.

HLv 535.2

Jesus reminded His disciples of the words He had spoken before His death. “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” Christ’s life, His death and resurrection, the prophecies that pointed to these events, the sacredness of the law of God, the mysteries of the plan of salvation, the power of Jesus for the remission of sins—all these they were to make known to the world.

HLv 535.3

“And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” The more abundant impartation of the Holy Spirit did not take place until after Christ’s ascension. But Christ breathed His Spirit upon them to impress them with the fact that without the Holy Spirit they could not fulfill their official duties in connection with the church.

HLv 535.4

The impartation of the Spirit is the impartation of the life of Christ. It imbues the receiver with the attributes of Christ. Only those who possess the inward working of the Spirit, and in whose life the Christ-life is manifested, are to minister in behalf of the church.

HLv 536.1

“Whose soever sins ye remit,” said Christ, “they are remitted; ... and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” Christ here gives no liberty for any man to pass judgment on others. This is the prerogative of God. But on the church in its organized capacity He places a responsibility for the individual members. Toward those who fall into sin, the church has a duty to warn, to instruct, and if possible to restore. Deal faithfully with wrongdoing. Call sin by its right name. Declare what God has said in regard to lying, Sabbath-breaking, stealing, and every other evil. If they persist in sin, the judgment you have declared from God’s Word is pronounced on them in heaven. The church must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dishonors her Lord. She must deal with sin as God directs, and her action is ratified in heaven.

HLv 536.4

When Jesus first met the disciples in the upper chamber, Thomas was not with them. He heard the reports of the others that Jesus had risen, but gloom and unbelief filled his heart. If Jesus had really risen, there could be no hope of a literal earthly kingdom. And it wounded his vanity to think that his Master should reveal Himself to all except him. He was determined not to believe, and for a whole week he brooded over his wretchedness.

HLv 537.1

He repeatedly declared, “Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe.” He would not exercise faith which was dependent on the testimony of his brethren. He loved his Lord, but he had allowed jealousy and unbelief to take possession of his heart.

HLv 537.2

One evening Thomas determined to meet with the others in the familiar upper room. He had a faint hope that the good news was true. Taking their evening meal, the disciples talked of the evidences Christ had given them in the prophecies. “Then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.”

HLv 537.3

Turning to Thomas He said, “Reach hither thy finger, and behold My hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into My side: and be not faithless, but believing.” The doubting disciple knew that none of his companions could have told the Master of his unbelief. He had no desire for further proof. His heart leaped for joy, and he cast himself at the feet of Jesus, crying, “My Lord and my God!”

HLv 537.4

Jesus accepted his acknowledgment but gently reproved his unbelief: “Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” Should the world now follow the example of Thomas, no one would believe, for all who receive Christ must do so through the testimony of others. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually become confirmed in unbelief. They are sowing seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of doubt to reap. When faith and confidence are most essential, many will thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.

HLv 538.1

Jesus’ treatment of Thomas shows how we should treat those who make their doubts prominent. Thomas had been most unreasonable in dictating the conditions of his faith, but Jesus, by His generous consideration, broke down all the barriers. Unbelief is seldom overcome by controversy. But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be revealed as the crucified Saviour, and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgment of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”

From Heaven With Love

We Shall Recognize Our Loved Ones

HLv 536.2

But there is a brighter side. “Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted.” Let this thought be uppermost. Let the shepherds speak to the erring of the forgiving mercy of the Saviour. Let them encourage the sinner to repent and believe in Him who can pardon. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9. Let the trembling hand of the repenting one be placed in the loving hand of Jesus. Such a remission is ratified in heaven.

From Heaven With Love

Only God Can Forgive

HLv 536.3

Only in this sense has the church power to absolve the sinner. Remission of sins can be obtained only through the merits of Christ. To no man, to no body of men, is given power to free the soul from guilt. The name of Jesus is the only “name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

Christ Triumphant

“The Lord Is Risen Indeed!” October 18

CTr 298.1

And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread. And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. Luke 24:35, 36.

In Heavenly Places

Victory Over Death, December 12

HP 353.2

“And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you” (Luke 24:36).... Here we have before us the precious evidence that Christ is a living Saviour. A little while before, He was enclosed in Joseph’s new tomb, but He had burst the bands of death and walked forth a triumphant conqueror.... The angel of God said, He is risen. Wonderful testimony! The hope of the world! Christ had risen and their Saviour was a risen Saviour! ... Christ had obtained the victory, and although man had fallen and was condemned to death, yet he could live again. Those who sleep in Jesus will be called from their prison house ... to a glorious immortality.... He has risen, dear friends, and in your despondency you may know ... that Jesus is by your side to give you peace.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 186, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 186, 1899, par. 1

The Sabbath, the day which the Lord has sanctified and blessed, has come. We thank the Lord with heart and soul. As we welcome the Sabbath all our family assemble in our little parlor and read and pray. We feel indeed that we have the Lord Jesus in our midst saying, “Peace be unto you.” [Luke 24:36.] As we all unite in prayer we realize more decidedly that we have the presence of God.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 64—“The Darkness Comprehended It Not”

1SM 404.2

After the crucifixion and the resurrection of Christ, His disciples listened with wonder and amazement to His lessons of truth; for they seemed as new ideas to them; but He told them, “These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures” (Luke 24:44, 45). The truth is constantly unfolding and presenting new features to different minds. All who dig in the mines of truth, will constantly discover rich and precious gems. We are anxious that all who claim to believe the truth now open before us, and especially those who take the responsibility of teaching the truth to others, should have a clearer conception themselves of the all-important significance of the themes of the Bible.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 130, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 130, 1897, par. 22

Christ reproached His disciples with their slowness of comprehension. Why did they not understand His lessons? Because His words did not agree with what they had been taught in the past, or with their hopes and expectations. The priests and rulers taught for doctrines the commandments of men. Christ tried to impress His disciples that He had left in their possession truths of which they did not comprehend the value. After His resurrection He said to them, “These are the things which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you. ... Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Luke 24:44, 45.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 139, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 139, 1900, par. 15

When God’s professed followers have an experimental knowledge of the truth, they will seek to fulfil the words of Christ. To His disciples the Saviour said, “These are the words that I spake unto you while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which are written in the law, and in the prophets, and in the psalms concerning me. Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Luke 24:44, 45.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 101, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, par. 14

Christ reproved His disciples for their slowness of heart in comprehending His statements to them. Many of the truths He taught them were but imperfectly understood. But He promised them that the Holy Spirit would recall to their mind His sayings as truths that they had not before understood. At His meeting with the disciples after the resurrection, He said, “These are the things which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you. ... Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scripture.” [Luke 24:44, 45.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 21, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 21, 1889, par. 65

The invitation has come from our Lord Jesus to all classes of people. Luke 24:44-48. Acts 13:46-48. “Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.” John 20:23. The meaning of this is, Ye shall prescribe and publish the terms on which the salvation of the soul rests.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 73, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 73, 1899, par. 12

After His resurrection He said to them, “These are the things which I spake unto you while I was yet with you, that all those things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses and in the prophets concerning me. Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witness of these things.” [Luke 24:44-48.] The Bible now seemed a new book to the disciples, containing definite instruction. They saw that the events that had taken place in the suffering and death of their beloved Master were a fulfilment of prophecy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 135, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 135, 1900, par. 11

“And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which are written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem: and ye are witnesses of these things.” [Luke 24:44-48.]

15LtMs, Lt 135, 1900, par. 12

These were Christ’s last words to His disciples before He ascended to heaven: “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 49-53.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 118, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 118, 1902, par. 16

“And He said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning Me. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” [Luke 24:44-48.]

17LtMs, Ms 118, 1902, par. 18

“And He led them out as far as to Bethany, and He lifted up His hands, and blessed them, and it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 49-53.]

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

MR No. 1531—Christ’s Method of Imparting Truth

21MR 152.5

“Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them,” Christ declared. And to His disciples He gave the commission: [Matthew 28:18-20, quoted]. [Mark 16:17, 18, 15, 20; Luke 24:44-53, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 130, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 8

The formation of the Christian church, and the union of all that it embraces, and preserving the consecration of all its powers as the appointed agencies of God, for the spiritual recovery of the moral image of God in man, was the object of Christ’s assuming human nature. Christ was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy, which was the symbol prescribed in type for the religious faith and obedience of all people. The Lord is not pleased with the indifference in recognizing the sacredness of the service of God, when the sample of what a church should be in all its instrumentality, its entire consecration in service, with a decided spirituality and zeal and exactitude in all service concerning the worship of God and exalted religious privileges, are to be treated in far greater reverence in all service; since we have the example of the great Founder of all the religious economy, should not we as a Christian people, in all our religious Christian worship, take in the lessons given and express a greater devotedness, which God requires in all who believe in Christ as type has met antitype in the giving of Himself to die on Calvary’s cross? His resurrection from the dead, His full and ample promise to His disciples just before His ascension to heaven escorted by the heavenly throng in triumph to the city of God, we now have assurance of a living Saviour, our Advocate in the heavenly courts, and the promise made (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:44-53).

Christ Triumphant

Jesus Opened the Understanding of His Followers, October 19

CTr 299.1

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. Luke 24:45.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 27, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 27, 1889, par. 23

Oh, that it might be said of ministers who are preaching to the people and to the churches, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures”! Luke 24:45. I tell you in the fear of God that up to this time the Bible truths connected with the great plan of redemption are but feebly understood. The truth will be continually unfolding, expanding, and developing, for it is divine, like its Author.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 3, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1891, par. 2

The ministerial institute was a season of close searching of the Scriptures. The doors of hearts were not barred with iron, lest rays of light should penetrate the darkened chambers of the mind and the sanctifying power should cleanse and refine the soul temple. Right in the midst of their study, during the past winter, there have been times where there was not a question with the class but that the Comforter, the Holy Spirit of God, was doing its work. “Then opened He their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Luke 24:45.] And the precious oracles were to them verily the voice of God. Hearts were affected, and they praised God with weeping and rejoicing. Rich and precious testimonies were borne, and they went forth to labor, trusting to be made efficient by the agency of the Holy Spirit.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 62, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 62, 1893, par. 7

The mine of truth is to be explored interestedly, diligently. How often we find Christ applying the Old Testament Scriptures, expounding their truths, showing their spiritual character, clothing them with freshness and richness and beauty the people had never beheld before. And after His resurrection He “opened ... their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures.” Luke 24:45. The truths our Saviour reveals in His exposition are capable of constant expansion and new and richer developments. While searching the Scriptures, the mind that is led by the Holy Spirit sees their Author, and by beholding is constantly brightening while looking at the Word. Thus the intellect aspiring to reach the standard of perfection becomes elevated to comprehend it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 117, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 117, 1902, par. 12

The disciples, by their slowness of comprehension, lost much of the power of Christ’s words. They did not understand His lessons in their highest spiritual meaning. When He tried to show them that it was necessary for Him to die on the cross, in order to bear the penalty of transgression in man’s behalf, they frankly acknowledged that they could not understand the meaning of His words. Christ reproved them for failing to see the meaning of the work He had come to this earth to accomplish. And then, in tender sympathy and compassionate love, He promised to send them His Spirit, who would bring to their minds the words He had spoken to them while on this earth. “The Comforter ... whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [John 14:26.] After His resurrection, He appeared to two of His disciples, and “opened their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Luke 24:45.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 597—The Need for a Proper Concept of Righteousness by Faith

8MR 276.1

Oh, that it might be said of ministers who are preaching to the people and to the churches, “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures”! (Luke 24:45.) I tell you in the fear of God that up to this time, the Bible truths connected with the great plan of redemption are but feebly understood. The truth will be continually unfolding, expanding, and developing, for it is Divine, like its Author.

Our Father Cares

Opening the Mysteries of Redemption, May 16

OFC 148.1

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. Luke 24:45.

Selected Messages Book 3

Need for a Proper Concept of Righteousness by Faith

3SM 188.2

Oh, that it might be said of ministers who are preaching to the people and to the churches, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures”! (Luke 24:45). I tell you in the fear of God that up to this time, the Bible truths connected with the great plan of redemption are but feebly understood. The truth will be continually unfolding, expanding, and developing, for it is divine, like its Author.

That I May Know Him

Opening the Mysteries of Redemption, July 4

TMK 191.1

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. Luke 24:45.

To Be Like Jesus

Exciting Experiences Await Bible Students, April 21

BLJ 121.1

And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Luke 24:45, NKJV.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Counsels to Ministers — 2The Need of a True Concept of Righteousness by Faith

1888 434.4

Oh that it might be said of ministers who are preaching to the people and to the churches, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures”! Luke 24:45. I tell you in the fear of God that up to this time, the Bible truths connected with the great plan of redemption are but feebly understood. The truth will be continually unfolding, expanding, and developing, for it is Divine, like its Author.