EGW WritingsLuke 4

Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 2

Luke 4:16-43

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 55, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, par. 19

“And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, ... And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon’s house. And Simon’s wife’s mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ, the Son of God. And he rebuking them, suffered them not to speak; for they knew that he was Christ. And when it was day he departed and went into a desert place; and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also; for therefore am I sent.” [Luke 4:16-18, 38-43.]

Luke 4:17-19

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 191, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 191, 1897, par. 10

In his first visit to Nazareth Jesus had announced his mission to earth. Entering the synagogue as was his custom on the Sabbath day, he stood up to read. “And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:17-19.]

Luke 4:17-22

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 12b, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, par. 5

Occasionally, divinity flashed through the humanity of Christ, but even then the Priests and rabbis would not be convinced, though their unrenewed hearts felt the disturbing power of the Spirit of God at work with an almost irresistible force. On one occasion Christ came to Nazareth and taught in the synagogue. “And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:17-19.]

11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, par. 6

“And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth.” [Verses 20-22.] The conviction and assurance that He was the Promised One so strongly impressed their minds, and filled their souls with peace and grace and hope, that every barrier was broken down, and for a moment they endured the seeing of the Invisible in Christ Jesus. The power of God touched their hearts, and they questioned, Why have we been so carried away? They were enthused with the Spirit that sent home the conviction that this was the Messiah.

11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, par. 7

But Satan, who had worked with all his devices to captivate their minds to his service, was determined that the blind eyes should not be opened that day, and that souls bound in slavery to his will should not be set at liberty. He and his angels are always on the ground with Christ, striving to counteract His words and His deeds of goodness and love as He works to restore the moral image of God in man. Unbelief came into the minds of Christ’s hearers, and they questioned, Who is this that asserts His power? “Is not this Joseph’s son?” [Verse 22.] This unbelief instilled into their minds worked fast, bringing them under the jurisdiction of Satan’s blinding insinuations; and this rejection of the Holy Spirit’s power and influence was the beginning of an end which meant Calvary.

Luke 4:17-27

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 39, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 39, 1889, par. 2

The first sermon in the synagogue given by Christ was in His own native town, Nazareth, where He had passed His childhood and youth, in the synagogue where He had worshiped in the presence of His brethren in the manner and form of the Jewish religion. On the Sabbath day He was requested to take part in the service, to read a passage from the book of the prophets. Curiosity had been aroused concerning Him. Jesus looked upon familiar faces. His mother and His brethren and sisters were all there. Every eye was fastened upon Him in curious expectancy. And there was delivered unto Him the book, or parchment roll, of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book ... (see Bible [Luke 4:17-20]). There was a tenderness, a simplicity, and yet a remarkable distinctness and fervor in His utterance, for this was to Him a living reality.

6LtMs, Ms 39, 1889, par. 3

He had announced His mission and then said, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” [Verse 21.] These words of appeal [were] freighted with heavenly love and yearning tenderness to heal them from bodily infirmities as well as the sin of the soul. And the Spirit of the Lord was moving upon the hearts of the audience, for they were impressed that these words were the words of God. With thrilling power they struck upon every heart and brought forth fervent response. Those [present] witnessed to the gracious words that proceeded from His lips. All the universe of God was looking upon and marking that scene, and when the cold and callous hearts were stirred as they had never been before, heaven rejoiced.

6LtMs, Ms 39, 1889, par. 5

The words spoken had strangely stirred their hearts but unbelief was again cherished. The door of the heart was opened, and the spirit of envy and criticism filled their souls; their hard hearts became so much the harder after being momentarily softened. “Who is this Jesus?” was the question of their unbelieving hearts. “Is He not the carpenter’s son, working at the trade with His father? Are not His mother and brethren and sisters here with us? Let Him work some miracle.” [Mark 6:3; Luke 4:22.] Unspoken words, but the atmosphere around Him was felt. He read their hearts. He answered the feelings of the audience. He said, “Ye will say unto Me, Physician, heal Thyself. Do here in Nazareth the miracles we have [heard] that Thou hast done in Capernaum, and evidence Thy claims to Messiahship.” He then said, “I tell a truth, no prophet is accepted in his own country.” (See Bible, [Luke 4:25-27].)

Luke 4:18

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 13—Two Worshipers

COL 158.2

But we must have a knowledge of ourselves, a knowledge that will result in contrition, before we can find pardon and peace. The Pharisee felt no conviction of sin. The Holy Spirit could not work with him. His soul was encased in a self-righteous armor which the arrows of God, barbed and true-aimed by angel hands, failed to penetrate. It is only he who knows himself to be a sinner that Christ can save. He came “to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18. But “they that are whole need not a physician.” Luke 5:31. We must know our real condition, or we shall not feel our need of Christ’s help. We must understand our danger, or we shall not flee to the refuge. We must feel the pain of our wounds, or we should not desire healing.

That I May Know Him

Missionary to the Poor, February 6

TMK 43.1

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. Luke 4:18.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 47—Ministry

DA 428.4

Again the Prince of life and the prince of the powers of darkness had met on the field of battle,—Christ in fulfillment of His mission to “preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18), Satan seeking to hold his victim under his control. Angels of light and the hosts of evil angels, unseen, were pressing near to behold the conflict. For a moment, Jesus permitted the evil spirit to display his power, that the beholders might comprehend the deliverance about to be wrought.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

DA 499.3

Both these men were in sacred office, and professed to expound the Scriptures. They were of the class specially chosen to be representatives of God to the people. They were to “have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way” (Hebrews 5:2), that they might lead men to understand God’s great love toward humanity. The work they were called to do was the same that Jesus had described as His own when He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 1—The Destruction of Jerusalem

GC 20.1

For three years the Lord of light and glory had gone in and out among His people. He “went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil,” binding up the brokenhearted, setting at liberty them that were bound, restoring sight to the blind, causing the lame to walk and the deaf to hear, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel to the poor. Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5. To all classes alike was addressed the gracious call: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem

GC88 20.2

For three years the Lord of light and glory had gone in and out among his people. “He went about doing good,” “healing all that were oppressed of the devil,” [Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5.] binding up the broken-hearted, setting at liberty them that were bound, restoring sight to the blind, causing the lame to walk and deaf to hear, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel to the poor. [Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5.] To all classes alike was addressed the gracious call, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.]

The Ministry of Healing

Character of God Revealed in Christ

MH 423.1

“Jehovah hath anointed Me,” He said,
“To preach good tidings unto the poor;
He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,”
“And recovering of sight to the blind;”
“To proclaim the year of Jehovah’s favor; ...
To comfort all that mourn.” Isaiah 61:1, A.R.V., margin; Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61:2, A.R.V.

The Ministry of Healing

Historical and Theological Lore

MH 443.1

The Saviour came “to preach the gospel to the poor.” Luke 4:18. In His teaching He used the simplest terms and the plainest symbols. And it is said that “the common people heard Him gladly.” Mark 12:37. Those who are seeking to do His work for this time need a deeper insight into the lessons He has given.

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 15—Simplicity

VSS 86.2

Simplest Terms and Plainest Symbols—The Saviour came “to preach the gospel to the poor.” Luke 4:18. In His teaching He used the simplest terms and the plainest symbols. And it is said that “the common people heard Him gladly.” Mark 12:37. Those who are seeking to do His work for this time need a deeper insight into the lessons He has given.—The Ministry of Healing, 443.

Counsels on Health

To Promulgate Health Principles

CH 207.2

We are to labor both for the health of the body and for the saving of the soul. Our mission is the same as that of our Master, of whom it is written that He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by Satan. Acts 10:38. Of His own work He says: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek.” “He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18. As we follow Christ’s example of labor for the good of others, we shall awaken their interest in the God whom we love and serve.

The Voice in Speech and Song

God’s Modern Messenger

VSS 400.3

Jesus declared in Nazareth, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18. How many of the professed ministers of Jesus Christ are copying this example of our divine Teacher?—Manuscript 55, 1886.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Picking Flaws Morning Talk by Mrs. E. G. White Ottawa, Kansas, May 12, 1889

1SAT 93.1

The enemy is at work with those who have placed themselves in doubt and unbelief; and they are not satisfied only to be there themselves, but all the time they are strengthening others in the same line, and they want others to believe just as they do. From the light God has given me, there never was any new light that came from heaven but that Satan could find something in it to pick at. And so it is with some of the people of today—they will pick at little things. They want the light, but there comes along the enemy just as he did to the men of Nazareth, and although the Spirit of God told them that Jesus was the anointed one and Christ told them what His work was—to break the power of the enemy and let the oppressed go free, to loose the bands of wickedness and to preach the gospel to the poor [see Luke 4:18]—[they remained in doubt and unbelief].

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Picking Flaws

1888 302.1

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 21, 1895

2SAT 112.2

Humility marked the path of Christ from the manger to the cross. He was a man in this small atom of a world, yet He conquered the power of Satan and released humanity from his grasp. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” He said, “because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised” [Luke 4:18].

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

A Soul-saving Agency

2TT 483.1

We are to labor both for the health of the body and for the saving of the soul. Our mission is the same as that of our Master, of whom it is written that He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by Satan. Acts 10:38. Of His own work He says: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek.” “He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18. As we follow Christ’s example of labor for the good of others we shall awaken their interest in the God whom we love and serve.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 37—The First Evangelists

HLv 239.3

Thus the Saviour ended His instruction. The chosen Twelve went out, as He had gone, “to preach the gospel to the poor, ... to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind.” Luke 4:18.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 47—A Battle With Satan’s Spirits

HLv 289.6

Again the Prince of life and the prince of darkness met on the field of battle—Christ to “preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18), Satan seeking to hold his victim under his control. For a moment, Jesus permitted the evil spirit to display his power.

From Here to Forever

Chapter 1—A Forecast of the World’s Destiny

HF 18.2

For three years the Lord of light and glory had gone in and out among His people, “doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil,” setting at liberty them that were bound, restoring sight to the blind, causing the lame to walk and the deaf to hear, cleansing lepers, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel to the poor. See Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5.

Christ in His Sanctuary

The Prophecy of Daniel 8:14

CIHS 84.1

“From the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks”—namely, sixty-nine weeks, or 483 years. The decree of Artaxerxes went into effect in the autumn of 457 B.C. From this date, 483 years extend to the autumn of A.D. 27.*NOTE: According to Jewish reckoning the fifth month (Ab) of the seventh year of Artaxerxes’ reign was from July 23 to August 21, 457 B.C. After Ezra’s arrival in Jerusalem in the autumn of the year, the decree of the king went into effect. For the certainty of the date 457 B.C. being the seventh year of Artaxerxes, see S. H. Horn and L. H. Wood, The Chronology of Ezra 7 (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Assn., 1953 and 1969); E. G. Kraeling, The Brooklyn Museum Aramaic Papyri (New Haven or London, 1953), pp. 191-193; The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Assn., 1954), Vol. 3, pp. 97-110. At that time this prophecy was fulfilled. The word “Messiah” signifies “the Anointed One.” In the autumn of A.D. 27 Christ was baptized by John and received the anointing of the Spirit. The apostle Peter testifies that “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power.” Acts 10:38. And the Saviour Himself declared: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.” Luke 4:18. After His baptism He went into Galilee, “preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled.” Mark 1:14, 15.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Historical and Theological Lore

CT 381.1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 41, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 9

In describing His earthly mission, Jesus said, “The Lord hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted; to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] This was His work. He went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed by Satan. There were whole villages where there was not a moan of sickness in any house, for He had passed through them and healed all their sick. His work gave evidence of His divine anointing. Love, mercy, and compassion were displayed in every act of His life. His heart went out in tender sympathy to the children of men. He took man’s nature, that He might reach man’s wants. The poorest and humblest were not afraid to approach Him. Even little children were attracted to Him. They loved to climb upon His knees and gaze into that pensive face, benignant with love.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 11, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 11, 1892, par. 11

God is a spectator in every business transaction. The connection of man with his God, in this sacred arrangement made with man in entrusting him with the Lord’s goods, should, in view of the judgment, make man honest with his God. Every man is to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. There are those in our world who, although the professedly chosen of God, can always pass the needy by on the other side. Jesus sees this; Jesus marks this; He will not pass it by. Jesus declared that He came to preach the gospel to the poor. [Luke 4:18.] He has bestowed His goods [so] that love and beneficence shall live, ever growing stronger in the hearts of His people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 16, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 16, 1893, par. 9

[When] the angel came to Daniel to make known unto him that he was greatly beloved and to give him skill and understanding, why, he could not endure the sight of the angel; the angel bade him to be strengthened, but he had to reveal himself as a man. So we can see what wisdom, what knowledge God had in laying [the] plan that Christ should come as a man, the Prince of Life to dispute the power of the prince of darkness. Jesus said in Nazareth that, “He came to break every yoke, and to preach the gospel to the poor.” [See Luke 4:18.] He was born of poor parentage. Who was it? The Majesty of heaven. He was subject to His parents, and He learned the carpenter’s trade, thus honoring labor. The poor took hold of Jesus Christ as their Saviour. He drew them to Himself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 11b, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 11b, 1894, par. 13

Christ was the representative of the Father. Let us consider the character of His work, and what the Spirit of God led Him to do. He declared of Himself in the synagogue at Nazareth, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted; to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind; to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

9LtMs, Ms 11b, 1894, par. 14

When Christ came to the earth He found the truth hidden by error. He had to rescue truth from the error that surrounded it and present [it] to men in such a way as to show the loveliness of its character. Error may be hoary with age, but this does not make it truth. The Jews held their customs received through traditions of the fathers, from age to age and generation to generation. Christ said to them, “Ye are blind.” “Ye are ignorant both of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 23:17; 22:29.] They were teaching for truth the traditions of men. Christ came, He said, to give “recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that were bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 11, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 11, 1894, par. 13

Now let us see what the Spirit of God led His representative on earth to do, what the character of His mission was. He says, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] How? Why, He found when He came here that the truth was so mixed with error that He had to take away the traditions and maxims, and to remove the rubbish, and take the truth, which had served in the enemy’s lines to strengthen error and bring error before the people, rescue it [truth] from error and restore it to the native loveliness of its character, and then let that truth stand before the people. The oldest error may be pled for because of its age; it may be hoary with age, but that does not make error truth. No, it does not change error into truth.

9LtMs, Ms 11, 1894, par. 14

The Jews held their customs received from tradition and repeated from age to age and from generation to generation, and they kept accumulating until He says to them, “Ye are blind.” “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 23:17; 22:29.] What was the matter? Why they had taught tradition for the commandments of God. That is not the way to do. What did Christ come to present? He says, “The recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] Now you can see that that is in perfect harmony with what we have been reading. “When thou seest the naked that thou cover him.” [Isaiah 58:7.] What are you doing if you have the glorious light of truth? What are you doing if God has chosen you to be a peculiar people, a royal people, a holy people? You are to show forth the power of Him who hath called you out of darkness, out of blindness, into His marvelous light. Well, if God lets His light shine upon you, do not let your mouth be stopped. Do not let anybody put a falsehood in your mouth because of tradition. Speaking the truth as it is in Christ Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 37, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 37, 1894, par. 10

When the priests entered the temple, they heard acclamations of joy and songs of praise. They heard men glorifying God for the wonderful works that were done among them. They heard mothers bidding their children to praise their deliverer, and to give thanks to Him who had brought comfort and relief, health and peace. He gave them an evidence of His divine mission! He was doing the very work which had been prophesied that the Messiah would do. He had opened the book of the prophet Isaiah in the synagogue at Nazareth and had read the description of His mission. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 91, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 91, 1895, par. 1

I have a message from the Lord for you. You have believed and loved the truth, but you have been sorely tempted. Now, the Lord Jesus has not forsaken you. He is looking with pitying tenderness upon you and your wife. These words were presented before me: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn in Zion; to appoint unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” [Isaiah 61:1-3.] In (Luke 4:18) the Lord Jesus applies this scripture to Himself. My dear tempted brother, you have a personal interest in this matter. Faith in Christ as your personal Saviour will bring you into the light of the Sun of Righteousness. There is One who has made reconciliation for sin. In Him you will find peace and hope.

Early Writings

The Reckoning of the Prophetic Periods

EW xii.2

“‘From the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks.’—namely, sixty-nine weeks, or 483 years. The decree of Artaxerxes went into effect in the autumn of B.C. 457. From this date, 483 years extend to the autumn of A.D. 27. At that time this prophecy was fulfilled. The word ‘Messiah’ signifies ‘the Anointed One.’ In the autumn of A.D. 27, Christ was baptized by John, and received the anointing of the Spirit. The apostle Peter testifies that ‘God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power.’ [Acts 10:38.] And the Saviour himself declared, ‘the Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.’ [Luke 4:18.] After His baptism He went into Galilee, ‘preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled.’ [Mark 1:14, 15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 24, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 24, 1895, par. 13

To every man God has given his work. Their time, their intellect, their money are to be used to God’s glory. How are you glorifying God? What words have you spoken that will be a blessing to those around you? If we would be like Christ we must do the work He did. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” He said, “because the Lord hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 21, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 21, 1895, par. 11

Humility marked the path of Christ from the manger to the cross. He was a man in this small atom of a world, yet He conquered the power of Satan and released humanity from his grasp. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” He said, “because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 50, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 50, 1895, par. 3

What a foundation is laid for our faith in all ages! When Christ ascended into the heavens, He ascended as our Advocate, and we have a friend at court. He has sent His representative, the Holy Spirit, and will give divine anointing to all who believe in Jesus Christ. The plan of salvation is the great theme that underlines all true, sanctified education. It is to be the theme of our conversation. All idle, cheap, common talk is to be cleansed from our lips. Levity, jesting and joking is an evidence that the soul temple is unsanctified and unholy. We are now to understand the science of true education. “This is life eternal that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] Shall we not educate in these lines? The everlasting Father has given His only begotten Son, and by so doing has opened a channel by which inexhaustible treasures may come to the world. All who come unto Christ may have everlasting life. This sacred food is to satisfy the soul hunger. Filled with the bread of life, we cannot hunger for earthly attractions, worldly excitements, and earthly grandeur. Our religious experience will be of the same order as the food upon which we feed. The Lord’s anointing was upon Jesus Christ. He says, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. ... To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the fruit of heaviness; that they might be called ...” [See Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61:3.] [Remainder missing.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 45, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 5

Satan will set in operation every scheme possible to benumb the senses, blind the eyes, and close the ears against the truth. Notwithstanding this, go to work. Labor from house to house, not neglecting those who are usually passed by—the poor. Christ said, “He hath [anointed] me to preach the gospel to the poor,” and we are to go and do likewise. [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 72, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, par. 9

When Christ came to our world, many were hungering and thirsting for the knowledge of God and virtue. But many were sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death. Christ came to counteract the work of the destroyer by restoring, in all who would receive Him, the moral image of God. In the synagogue at Nazareth He announced His work: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering the sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] The prophet says of Him, “The Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising,” “and the isles shall wait for his law.” [Isaiah 60:3; 42:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 143, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 143, 1897, par. 33

Christ’s habits and customs and practices were not after the standard of the world. What a lesson He gives to the Christian churches throughout the world not to exalt themselves above the Majesty of heaven, their Redeemer. What do men find in the example of Christ to justify their feeling of superiority, keeping themselves apart from their fellow men, hiding themselves from their own flesh, because [they] have obtained more of this world’s goods than [their] neighbor? Because the world honors the wealthy and despises the poor, shall those who claim to follow jesus do the same? Whose leading and example are such following? Certainly not the example of Him who said, “He hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,” “to preach the gospel to the poor.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 22, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 22, 1898, par. 5

Prophecy has testified to Christ’s work, and Luke shows the fulfillment of this prophecy. In the synagogue at Nazareth Christ was given the book of the prophet Esaias to read, and when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 120, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 120, 1898, par. 9

However black the clouds that roll upon the world at the present time, there is light beyond. Ignorance, superstition, darkness, unbelief strong and masterful, will meet us at every step we advance. But our faith must soar above all, and see the bow of promise encircling the throne. We must reflect the light with pen and voice, praising God before the world. We must remember that Christ’s work is our work. The message from God’s Word is, “He hath sent me to preach deliverance to the captives and the recovering of sight to the blind.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 164, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 164, 1899, par. 23

The men who have devoted their lifetime to common work need words as simple as Christ gave in His lessons, words which are easily understood. Christ said, “I came to preach the gospel to the poor.” [Luke 4:18.] Our brethren who are teaching the truth for this time need a deeper insight into the lessons Christ has given. We cannot do better than to heed the words Christ has spoken: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] At every step we advance in any service for Christ, self-denial and the cross lie directly in the path.

Education

Chapter 12—Other Object Lessons

Ed 113.1

God’s healing power runs all through nature. If a tree is cut, if a human being is wounded or breaks a bone, nature begins at once to repair the injury. Even before the need exists, the healing agencies are in readiness; and as soon as a part is wounded, every energy is bent to the work of restoration. So it is in the spiritual realm. Before sin created the need, God had provided the remedy. Every soul that yields to temptation is wounded, bruised, by the adversary; but whenever there is sin, there is the Saviour. It is Christ’s work “to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 4, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 4, 1902, par. 22

These words bring to view a course that heaven will not endorse. Our work is to restore, not to destroy; to lift up, not to cast down; “to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bound.” [Luke 4:18.] We are commanded to remember them that are bound as bound with them. And in Isaiah we read: “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” [Isaiah 58:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 148, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 148, 1903, par. 26

From the beginning of the prophetic era the coming of a distinguished Teacher had been predicted—a Teacher whose words would demand universal attention, whose power would be sufficient to overcome the power of Satan. Prophecy declared that He would “preach the gospel to the poor,” and “proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61:2.] He was to “set judgment in the earth.” The isles were to “wait for His law.” [Isaiah 42:4.] The Gentiles were to come to His light, and kings to the brightness of His rising. [Isaiah 60:3.] The “Messenger of the covenant” was expected. The Sun of righteousness was to arise “with healing in His wings.” [Malachi 3:1; 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 388, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, par. 8

Of His own work Christ says: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek.” “He hath sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Only Helper, September 3

JNN 261.2

For three years the Lord of light and glory had gone in and out among His people. He “went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil,” binding up the brokenhearted, setting at liberty them that were bound, restoring sight to the blind, causing the lame to walk and the deaf to hear, cleansing the lepers, raising the dead, and preaching the gospel to the poor (Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18; Matthew 11:5). To all classes alike was addressed the gracious call: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Looked-for Deliverer, November 4

JNN 325.1

“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted.”
—Luke 4:18

Lift Him Up

Every Church a Training School, October 24

LHU 311.1

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

Chapter 8—Religion and the Mind

1MCP 65.2

Christ’s Work Is to Heal the Brokenhearted—God’s healing power runs all through nature. If a tree is cut, if a human being is wounded or breaks a bone, nature begins at once to repair the injury. Even before the need exists, the healing agencies are in readiness; and as soon as a part is wounded, every energy is bent to the work of restoration. So it is in the spiritual realm. Before sin created the need, God had provided the remedy. Every soul that yields to temptation is wounded, bruised, by the adversary; but wherever there is sin, there is the Saviour. It is Christ’s work “to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18).—Education, 113 (1903).

Steps to Christ

Chapter 1—God’s Love for Man

SC 11.2

In describing His earthly mission, Jesus said, The Lord “hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18. This was His work. He went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed by Satan. There were whole villages where there was not a moan of sickness in any house, for He had passed through them and healed all their sick. His work gave evidence of His divine anointing. Love, mercy, and compassion were revealed in every act of His life; His heart went out in tender sympathy to the children of men. He took man’s nature, that He might reach man’s wants. The poorest and humblest were not afraid to approach Him. Even little children were attracted to Him. They loved to climb upon His knees and gaze into the pensive face, benignant with love.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 26—God’s Design in Our Sanitariums

6T 225.2

We are to labor both for the health of the body and for the saving of the soul. Our mission is the same as that of our Master, of whom it is written that He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by Satan. Acts 10:38. Of His own work He says: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek.” “He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18. As we follow Christ’s example of labor for the good of others we shall awaken their interest in the God whom we love and serve.

Luke 4:18-19

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 29—“To Meet the Bridegroom”

COL 416.2

Christ, the outshining of the Father’s glory, came to the world as its light. He came to represent God to men, and of Him it is written that He was anointed “with the Holy Ghost and with power,” and “went about doing good.” Acts 10:38. In the synagogue at Nazareth He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19. This was the work He commissioned His disciples to do. “Ye are the light of the world,” He said. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14, 16.

The Liquor Traffic Working Counter to Christ

PH141 1.2

When Jesus was upon earth, He announced his mission and the character of his work. He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor: He hath sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Self-Denial and Sacrifice

1TT 367.1

The Saviour of the world conquered Satan in the wilderness of temptation. He overcame to show man how he may overcome. He announced in the synagogue of Nazareth: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19.

From Splendor to Shadow

Light Will Penetrate the World’s Darkness

SS 369.4

At Nazareth Christ said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19, RSV. This was the work He commissioned His disciples to do, “to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house ... . Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.” Isaiah 58:7, 8, RSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 31, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 31, 1889, par. 81

In the synagogue at Nazareth Christ declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 18, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 18, 1890, par. 2

Ye are a spectacle unto the world, to angels and to men. Your mission is the same as that which was pronounced by Jesus as His mission at the beginning of His ministry. He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bound, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] “Ye are laborers together with God. Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] We are to carry forward the work placed in our hands by the Master. “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” [Luke 6:31.] “If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shalt thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” [Isaiah 58:10, 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 1, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 4

Christ came to our world to represent the Father. Everything was out of joint. Here was Satan who had been at work ever since his fall misrepresenting the Father, and Jesus Christ came to our world to set things in order. Satan had been at work in his way, afflicting the minds and bodies of the people, and when Christ came there was a counterwork set in operation in our world. In Nazareth He announced His mission. Opening the Scriptures to Esais, He read the prophecy concerning Himself (Luke 4:18, 19): “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.”

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

MR No. 906—An Appeal for Acceptance of the Message of Christ’s Righteousness

11MR 281.2

Parallels Between Christ’s Rejection at Nazareth and the Rejection of Truth Today—Bro. B, you have encased yourself in an armor of unbelief and spiritual pride. You do not recognize Him whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting. The King of glory appeared in the form of a servant, clothed in the garb of humanity. When He began His public ministry in Nazareth, there was a sad and terrible exhibition of what human nature can and will be when Satan works on the heart. Jesus proclaimed Himself to be the Anointed One. No man had before ventured to assume as much; not the learned or noble of the earth, not even the prophets or kings. He arose in the synagogue, and read from the prophet Isaiah these gracious words: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18, 19).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 6, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 6, 1891, par. 1

There has been much perplexity as to how our laborers in the South shall deal with the “color line.” It has been a question to some how far to concede to the prevailing prejudice against the colored people. The Lord has given us light concerning all such matters. There are principles laid down in His Word that should guide us in dealing with these perplexing questions. The Lord Jesus came to our world to save men and women of all nationalities. He died just as much for the colored people as for the white race. Jesus came to shed light over the whole world. At the beginning of His ministry He declared His mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 48, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 48, 1893, par. 31

When Jesus stood in the synagogue at Nazareth, He announced His work: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] We are told that all marveled at the gracious words that proceeded out of His mouth. This is the mission of Christ. He laid aside His glory, His kingly crown and royal robe, and clothed His divinity with humanity. Although He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich. Jesus took humanity upon Him, that humanity might touch humanity, and divinity lay hold upon divinity. He bridged the gulf that sin had made, that man might be united with the Infinite One, and earth be connected with heaven.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 32, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 32, 1895, par. 3

Jesus announced in Nazareth His work and His mission. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] All marveled at the gracious words that proceeded out of His mouth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 29, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 29, 1895, par. 26

When in the synagogue at Nazareth Christ read to the people from the roll of the prophet Isaiah, He stood as the divine Interpreter of the Scripture which He Himself had inspired holy men to write. He read, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel unto the poor, he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] How terrible the blindness of the men of Nazareth that after their hearts had responded to the Holy Spirit’s power, they became so enraged as to try to take the life of the Son of God. That history should be kept before you as an exhibition of the result of hardening the heart in unbelief and pride.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 37, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 37, 1898, par. 3

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,” Christ declared, “because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 17, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 17, 1898, par. 1

Our Lord Jesus Christ was the Majesty of heaven, yet He came to our world as a physician, a healer of physical and spiritual maladies. What was His work? To do good. “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 197, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 197, 1898, par. 3

Those who are laborers together with God receive from Christ “grace for grace.” [John 1:16.] Their hearts are enlarged, and they give wholehearted service to God, and this is holiness. Their earnest zeal is inspiration to others. Christ considered that it was necessary to give us an example in His life, in His suffering and death of what it means to be a messenger for God. He walked with His disciples, acting out His own teachings, and welcomed with joy all who came to Him for instruction. He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 145, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 145, 1899, par. 6

In Nazareth Christ announced His mission to the world. He declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sigh to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] Those who are in partnership with Christ, who have the Saviour abiding in their hearts, will possess the same attributes that Christ possessed. They will work as Christ worked. Their hearts will ever be touched by human woe.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 38, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 22

There is work for the Iowa Conference to do. When they do this work, they will have no time for fault-finding or complaining. Christ said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] This is our work. God calls upon His people to be working Christians. They are to improve by right use of the talents He has entrusted to them. Let us not be like the slothful servant who hid his one talent in the earth. Let us rather be like the servant who doubled his talents, to whom his Lord said, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Shall we not live so that the “Well done” shall be spoken to us? If we expect to sit with the Man of Calvary on His throne, we must here work as He worked.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 59—“The House of Israel”

PK 718.1

“Behold,” says the Scripture, “the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee.” Verse 2. Christ, the outshining of the Father’s glory, came to the world as its light. He came to represent God to men, and of Him it is written that He was anointed “with the Holy Ghost and with power,” and “went about doing good.” Acts 10:38. In the synagogue at Nazareth He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19. This was the work He commissioned His disciples to do. “Ye are the light of the world,” He said. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14, 16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 83, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 83, 1902, par. 18

When in the synagogue at Nazareth Jesus stood up to read, He opened to the prophecy of His work written seven hundred years before, and read: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 53, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 53, 1905, par. 7

In describing His earthly mission, Jesus declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 22—Centering Too Much in Battle Creek

8T 134.1

We are “a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.” 1 Corinthians 4:9. Our mission is the same as that which was announced by Christ, at the beginning of His ministry, to be His mission. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,” He said, “because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19.

That I May Know Him

Linked in a Common Brotherhood, April 4

TMK 100.3

Jesus was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, and yet in His human life He was patient, kind, courteous, benevolent, full of love for little children, and full of pity and compassion for the tempted, the tried, and the oppressed. Of Himself He said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set a liberty them that are bruised, ...” (Luke 4:18, 19).

The Upward Look

Follow the Great Exemplar, May 11

UL 145.2

In describing His earthly mission, Jesus declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives; and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18, 19).

Ye Shall Receive Power

Brotherly Love, March 20

YRP 88.3

The Lord Jesus came to our world to save men and women of all nationalities.... Jesus came to shed light over the whole world. At the beginning of His ministry He declared His mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18, 19)....

Ye Shall Receive Power

Jesus Our Lord, September 22

YRP 274.1

Luke 4:18-21

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 75, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 1

Christ is the Saviour of the body as verily as He is the Saviour of the soul. His first sermon at Nazareth shows this. The roll of the Hebrew Scriptures was handed to Him, and while His friends and acquaintances, some with pleasure and surprise, fixed their eyes on Him, He read from the prophet Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” These words fully outlined His mission. “This day,” He said, “is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears.” [Luke 4:18, 19, 21.]

13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 3

“And recovering of sight to the blind.” [Verse 18.] The Jewish nation were spiritually blind. By their wicked works they had separated themselves from God. They were great sticklers for the law, but they were continually transgressing the law, and teaching maxims, traditions, and doctrines of men for the commandments of God, thus misleading the people. [As] the religionists of that day, they claimed the oracles of God as their authority. Christ exposed their blindness, declaring to them, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] They kept neither of the great principles of the law: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy strength; and thy neighbor as thyself.” Upon these two great principles hang all the law and the prophets. “This do,” said Christ, “and ye shall live.” Deuteronomy 6:4, 5; Luke 10:26-28.

Luke 4:18-22

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 4, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 18

The King of glory appeared in the form of a servant, clothed in the garb of humanity. When He began His public ministry in Nazareth, there was a sad and terrible exhibition of what human nature <can and> will be when Satan works on the heart. Jesus proclaimed Himself to be the Anointed One. No man had before ventured to assume as much, not the learned or noble of the earth, not even the prophets or kings. He arose in the synagogue and read from the prophet Isaiah these gracious words: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.]

6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 19

The eyes of all in the synagogue were fastened upon Him, for divinity flashed through humanity, and with one voice they witnessed to the “gracious words” that proceeded from His lips. [Verse 22.] God had spoken to their hearts and given them a testimony which they acknowledged to be the truth. But soon doubt and unbelief arose. Who was this who claimed to be the Messiah? They did not expect Christ to come in this way. His family connections were humble, pious people, but not distinguished for riches, learning, rank, or power.

Luke 4:18-25

The Great Controversy

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC 323.2

“Another kind of evidence that vitally affected my mind,” he says, “was the chronology of the Scriptures.... I found that predicted events, which had been fulfilled in the past, often occurred within a given time. The one hundred and twenty years to the flood (Genesis 6:3); the seven days that were to precede it, with forty days of predicted rain (Genesis 7:4); the four hundred years of the sojourn of Abraham’s seed (Genesis 15:13); the three days of the butler’s and baker’s dreams (Genesis 40:12-20); the seven years of Pharaoh’s (Genesis 41:28-54); the forty years in the wilderness (Numbers 14:34); the three and a half years of famine (1 Kings 17:1) [see Luke 4:25;] ... the seventy years’ captivity (Jeremiah 25:11); Nebuchadnezzar’s seven times (Daniel 4:13-16); and the seven weeks, threescore and two weeks, and the one week, making seventy weeks, determined upon the Jews (Daniel 9:24-27),—the events limited by these times were all once only a matter of prophecy, and were fulfilled in accordance with the predictions.”—Bliss, pages 74, 75.

GC 327.1

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC88 323.2

“Another evidence that vitally affected my mind,” he says, “was the chronology of the Scriptures. I found that predicted events, which had been fulfilled in the past, often occurred within a given time. The one hundred and twenty years to the flood, Genesis 6:3; the seven days that were to precede it, with forty days of predicted rain, Genesis 7:4; the four hundred years of the sojourn of Abraham’s seed, Genesis 15:13; the three days of the butler’s and baker’s dreams, Genesis 40:12-20; the seven years of Pharaoh’s, Genesis 41:28-54; the forty years in the wilderness, Numbers 14:34; the three and a half years of famine, 1 Kings 17:1; [See Luke 4:25.] the seventy years’ captivity, Jeremiah 25:11; Nebuchadnezzar’s seven times, Daniel 4:13-16; and the seven weeks, threescore and two weeks, and the one week, making seventy weeks, determined upon the Jews, Daniel 9:24-27; the events limited by these times were all once only a matter of prophecy, and were fulfilled in accordance with the predictions.”

GC88 327.1

“From the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks,“—namely, sixty-nine weeks, or 483 years. The decree of Artaxerxes went into effect in the autumn of B. C. 457. From this date, 483 years extend to the autumn of A. D. 27. [See Appendix, Note 3; also Diagram Opposite p. 328.] At that time this prophecy was fulfilled. The word “Messiah” signifies “the Anointed One.” In the autumn of A. D. 27, Christ was baptized by John, and received the anointing of the Spirit. The apostle Peter testifies that “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power.” [Acts 10:38.] And the Saviour himself declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor.” [Luke 4:18.] After his baptism he came into Galilee, “preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled.” [Mark 1:14, 15.]

Luke 4:18-27

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Advancing in Christian Experience

1888 123.1

Now Christ takes the field and commences to press back this power of moral darkness. In Luke He announces what His work is to be. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18, 19). Even while Christ announced His mission and “all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth,” Satan was on the ground. And there is no meeting but that he is there, and as the truth is being impressed on minds, Satan presents the difficulties.

1888 123.2

Christ said, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” But a state of unbelief arose and the questions began to come up, Is not this the son of Joseph and Mary? What is this that He claims? Is not this Joseph’s son? We have seen Him walking with His father to the carpenter shop. “And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian” (verses 23-27).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 40, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 40, 1887, par. 5

If the light which God bestows upon men is not appreciated, it becomes darkness to them. And the greater the light bestowed, the greater the darkness which follows its rejection. There is a solemn warning to us in the words of Christ to the men of Nazareth. Upon visiting the little town where He had been brought up, the Saviour, according to His custom, went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up to read. The book of the prophet Isaiah was handed Him, and He read the words, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19. And then, as the eyes of all in the synagogue were fastened on Him, He said unto them, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” “And all bare Him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth.” Verses 21, 22. The Scripture which He had read was understood by all to refer to the Messiah. And when Jesus explained the prophet’s words, and pointed out the sacred office of the Messiah, as a reliever of the oppressed, a liberator of the captive, a healer of the sick, and a revealer of truth to the world, the people were filled with joy and responded to His words by hearty amens and praises to God. His impressive manner, the mighty import of His words, the divine light that shone from His countenance thrilled that listening company, as Jesus stood before them, a living exposition of the prophet’s words.

5LtMs, Ms 40, 1887, par. 8

But Jesus gave them a proof of His divine character by reading, as from an open book, the secrets of their hearts: “And He said unto them, Ye will surely say unto Me this proverb, Physician, heal yourself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. And He said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.” Luke 4:23-27.

Luke 4:18-29

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 55, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 4

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 26

We read in Luke of a time when an attempt was made upon the life of Christ, when He announced His mission in Nazareth. See Luke 4:18-29. The first impression made upon the hearts of the people by the Spirit of God broke down their prejudice, and they witnessed to the gracious words that proceeded from His lips. But unbelief, whispered to them by the enemy, turned the current of their feelings, and next they were filled with madness because they thought Jesus reflected upon them for their lack of piety and loyalty to God, setting before them their spiritual apostasy. They rose up, thrust Him out of the city, and led Him with no gentle hands to the brow of the hill whereon the city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong and murder Him then and there. But His time had not yet come. His mission was not ended. Heavenly angels guarded Him and held the eyes of the infuriated priests and elders of Israel so that Jesus passed through the midst unharmed to prosecute His work in cities more favorable to the reception of light and truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 8, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 8, 1888, par. 10

Now [Christ] takes the field and commences to press back this power of moral darkness. In Luke He announced what His work [was] to be (Luke 4:18, 19). Now that was the mission of our Saviour, and even while He announced at Nazareth what His work was, [and] they witnessed to the precious words which came from His lips, Satan was on the ground. And there is no meeting but that he is there, and as the truth is being impressed on minds, Satan presents the difficulties.

5LtMs, Ms 8, 1888, par. 11

The questions began to come up, Is not this the son of Joseph and Mary? What is this that He claims? ... Then Christ was reinstated in regard to this matter, and they all began to say, Is not this Joseph’s son? We have seen Him walking with His father to the carpenter’s shop. Christ said to them, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” [Verse 21.] But here a state of unbelief arose, Is not this Joseph’s son?

5LtMs, Ms 8, 1888, par. 13

What did they do in their madness? They “rose up and thrust him out of the city.” [Verse 29.] Could their eyes have been opened, they would have beheld angels of God all around Him, that all heaven was engaged in this warfare between Christ and the prince of the powers of this world. They could have seen this, but their eyes were holden that they might not see it.

Luke 4:18-32

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 37—The First Evangelists

DA 355.3

So bitter would be the enmity to the gospel that even the tenderest earthly ties would be disregarded. The disciples of Christ would be betrayed to death by the members of their own households. “Ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake,” He added; “but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” Mark 13:13. But He bade them not to expose themselves unnecessarily to persecution. He Himself often left one field of labor for another, in order to escape from those who were seeking His life. When He was rejected at Nazareth, and His own townsmen tried to kill Him, He went down to Capernaum, and there the people were astonished at His teaching; “for His word was with power.” Luke 4:32. So His servants were not to be discouraged by persecution, but to seek a place where they could still labor for the salvation of souls.

DA 358.1

Thus the Saviour ended His instruction. In the name of Christ the chosen twelve went out, as He had gone, “to preach the gospel to the poor, ... to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4:18, 19.

Luke 4:19-29

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 62, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 62, 1886, par. 60

We read in Luke [where] Christ, in the synagogue of Nazareth, announced Himself as the anointed One, as He read from the prophet Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. ... And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on Him. And He began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare Him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth.” Luke 4:19-22.

4LtMs, Ms 62, 1886, par. 61

Then Satan whispered his unbelief, and they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” [Verse 22.] Then He told them plainly the true position. How quickly the current changed, and they were filled with madness and rage because Jesus set before them the true spiritual apostasy. They “rose up, and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong.” Verse 29. But Jesus was protected in His mission by the heavenly angels. Passing through the midst of them unobserved, He went His way.

Luke 4:22

The Upward Look

Gracious Words Needed, August 10

UL 236.1

And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. Luke 4:22.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 2, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 2, 1889, par. 2

But it seems to me that we do not take these things and learn the lessons from them that we should. Now the unbelieving came up, and the devil took advantage of it and began to work, and they began to say among themselves, “Who is this? Is not this the son of Joseph and Mary?” [Luke 4:22.] And just the minute this thought came into their minds, they began to work it out. And you know how it worked. They arose right up and laid hold of Christ and led Him to the brow of the hill and were going to destroy Him. Now, there has not been any improvement made in human nature since that time. Human nature is human nature still. If there is any little point where they can divert the mind, they make the most of it. You see it in the councils. It has been presented to me again and again. They are laying plans for the work of God, trying to make arrangements whereby they can advance the work of God, and there stands someone trying to trig [block] the wheels. As I said to one of our brethren not long since, “You have done more to set back the work of God than ten or twenty of our enemies, because you construe some point into something wonderful, and you have held the committee for hours over nothing, only to throw in a block to trig the wheel, and the time wasted and the good resolutions that should have been carried have been lost. You come in, and they think you are a good man, a moral man, and what you say is all right, but every time you have a chunk to throw in, and they are worried out in their counsels. Nothing is accomplished which should have been done, on account of this hindrance.”

Luke 4:22-29

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 6, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 6, 1896, par. 8

What moved the people at Battle Creek when they humbled their hearts before God and cast away their idols? In the days of Christ, when He proclaimed His mission, all bare witness, and wondered at the gracious words that proceeded out of His mouth. But the unbelief whispered by Satan began to work, and they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” When the Lord Jesus perceived their questioning unbelief, and saw that His gracious words were fading from their minds, He said unto them, “Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself. Whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country.” Then Christ stated facts to them, and said, “Verily, I say unto you, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; but unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman which was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel, in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.” [Luke 4:22, 23, 25-27.]

11LtMs, Lt 6, 1896, par. 9

The Jews considered that this was spoken against them, and that those of a heathen nation should be represented as favored by God before the [Jewish] nation, was a statement that should not be tolerated, “and all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things were filled with wrath, and rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him to the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.” [Verses 28, 29.] While they were contending among themselves, Christ passed through the midst of them, and went on His way. Certainly this was one of the places where Christ could not do many mighty works because of their unbelief.

Luke 4:23

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 10a, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 10a, 1894, par. 10

Brother Corliss, let us be reasonable in our labors. I dare not say you, must change your habits and practices in doing so much. I will say we, else you say, “physician heal thyself.” [Luke 4:23.] I want to send you some copies of letters sent to America if I can possibly spare them. We have an interest in your labor. We know that the enemy will work decidedly to hedge up the way to make it hard for those who are convinced to decide; but when I consider how long it has taken them to decide in Seven Hills, and then see one family after another moving slowly along, I praise God and take courage. It is hard for many in this country to decide to keep the seventh day Sabbath. One old lady, a Wesleyan, I think, was as bitter as gall to the truth until seized by affliction. She was afraid she would die, and then the Holy Spirit touched her heart, and as soon as she was able, she came to the tent. She now gives a decided testimony for the truth.

Luke 4:24

Christ Triumphant

The Messiah of Prophecy Rejected, August 24

CTr 243.1

And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. Luke 4:24.

Luke 4:24-26

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

MR No. 1496—Reviewing Conditions at the St. Helena Health Retreat; Avoid Independent Judgment and Action; Be Faithful in Tithes and Offerings

20MR 367.2

But he has verily turned away from the light and convictions of the Spirit of God, as did the assembly of the Jews at Nazareth, when Christ announced himself as the Anointed One. All responded, under the impression of the Spirit of God, witnessing to the gracious words which proceeded from His lips. It is a dangerous thing under circumstances like these to open the heart to unbelief, which causes the Spirit of God to depart from them. After unbelief came in, after doubts were entertained, the pointed, close remarks of Jesus showing that apostate Israel could not be trusted with the hiding of God’s servant [cf. Luke 4:24-26], for they would betray him, filled them with madness, and they would have put an end to the life of Jesus then and there, if they had been permitted to do this. But the angels of God preserved the Son of God till His work was done, and He passed through the murderous throng, and went on His way to continue His work and fulfill His mission.

Luke 4:25

Christ in His Sanctuary

The Impact of Bible Chronology

CIHS 79.1

“Another kind of evidence that vitally affected my mind,” he says, “was the chronology of the Scriptures. ... I found that predicted events, which had been fulfilled in the past, often occurred within a given time. The one hundred and twenty years to the flood (Genesis 6:3); the seven days that were to precede it, with forty days of predicted rain (Genesis 7:4); the four hundred years of the sojourn of Abraham’s seed (Genesis 15:13); the three days of the butlers and baker’s dreams (Genesis 40:12-20); the seven years of Pharaoh’s (Genesis 41:28-54); the forty years in the wilderness (Numbers 14:34); the three and a half years of famine (1 Kings 17:1) [see Luke 4:25;]...the seventy years’ captivity (Jeremiah 25:11); Nebuchadnezzar’s seven times (Daniel 4:13-16); and the seven weeks, threescore and two weeks, and the one week, making seventy weeks, determined upon the Jews (Daniel 9:24-27),—the events limited by these times were all once only a matter of prophecy, and were fulfilled in accordance with the predictions.”—Bliss, pages 74, 75.

Luke 4:27

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 20—Naaman

PK 252.4

Centuries after Naaman returned to his Syrian home, healed in body and converted in spirit, his wonderful faith was referred to and commended by the Saviour as an object lesson for all who claim to serve God. “Many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet,” the Saviour declared; “and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.” Luke 4:27. God passed over the many lepers in Israel because their unbelief closed the door of good to them. A heathen nobleman who had been true to his convictions of right, and who felt his need of help, was in the sight of God more worthy of His blessing than were the afflicted in Israel, who had slighted and despised their God-given privileges. God works for those who appreciate His favors and respond to the light given them from heaven.

From Splendor to Shadow

Elisha’s Servant Has the Spirit of Judas

SS 136.2

Naaman’s wonderful faith was commended by the Saviour as an object lesson. “There were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha,” the Saviour declared; “and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.” Luke 4:27, RSV. God passed over many lepers in Israel because their unbelief closed the door to them. A heathen nobleman who had been true to his convictions of right was in the sight of God more worthy of His blessing than the afflicted in Israel who had despised their God-given privileges. God works for those who appreciate His favors and respond to the light given them from heaven.

Luke 4:31-44

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 26—Busy and Happy Days at Capernaum

HLv 161.1

In the intervals of His journeys to and fro, Jesus dwelt at Capernaum on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, and it came to be known as “His own city.” Matthew 9:1. The shores of the lake and the hills that at a little distance encircle it, were dotted with towns and villages. The lake was covered with fishing boats. Everywhere was the stir of busy, active life.

HLv 161.2

Being on the highway from Damascus to Jerusalem and Egypt, and to the Mediterranean Sea, Capernaum was a great thoroughfare. People from many lands passed through the city. Here Jesus could meet all nations and all ranks, and His lessons would be carried to other countries. Investigation of the prophecies would be excited, attention would be directed to the Saviour, and His mission would be brought before the world. Angels were preparing the way for His ministry, moving upon men’s hearts and drawing them to the Saviour.

HLv 161.3

In Capernaum the nobleman’s son whom Christ had healed was a witness to His power. The court official and his household joyfully testified of their faith. When it was known that the Teacher Himself was among them, the whole city was aroused. On the Sabbath the people crowded the synagogue until great numbers had to turn away.

HLv 161.4

All who heard the Saviour “were astonished at His doctrine: for His word was with power.” “He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Luke 4:32; Matthew 7:29. The teaching of the scribes and elders was cold and formal. They professed to explain the law, but no inspiration from God stirred their own hearts or the hearts of their hearers.

HLv 162.1

Jesus’ work was to present the truth. His words shed a flood of light upon the teachings of the prophets. Never before had His hearers perceived such depth of meaning in the Word of God.

HLv 162.2

Jesus made truth beautiful by presenting it in the most direct and simple way. His language was pure, refined, and clear as a running stream. His voice was as music to those who had listened to the monotonous tones of the rabbis.

HLv 162.3

He spoke as one having authority. The rabbis spoke with doubt and hesitancy, as if Scripture might be interpreted to mean one thing or exactly the opposite. But Jesus taught Scripture as of unquestionable authority. Whatever His subject, it was presented with power.

HLv 162.4

Yet He was earnest, rather than vehement. In every theme God was revealed. Jesus sought to break the spell of infatuation which keeps men absorbed in earthly things. He placed the things of this life in their true relation as subordinate to those of eternal interest; but He did not ignore their importance. He taught that a knowledge of divine truth prepares men better to perform the duties of everyday life. Conscious of His relationship to God, He yet recognized His unity with every member of the human family.

HLv 162.5

He knew “how to speak a word in season to him that is weary.” Isaiah 50:4. He had tact to meet prejudiced minds and to surprise them with illustrations that won their attention. His illustrations were taken from the things of daily life, and although simple, they had a wonderful depth of meaning. The birds, the lilies, the seed, the shepherd, the sheep—with these objects Jesus illustrated immortal truth; and ever afterward when His hearers chanced to see these things, they recalled His lessons.

HLv 163.1

Christ never flattered men nor praised them for their clever inventions; but deep, unprejudiced thinkers received His teaching and found that it tested their wisdom. The highly educated were charmed with His words, and the uneducated were always profited. He made even the heathen to understand that He had a message for them.

HLv 163.2

Even amid angry enemies He was surrounded with an atmosphere of peace. The loveliness of His character, the love expressed in look and tone, drew to Him all who were not hardened in unbelief. Afflicted ones felt that He was a faithful and tender friend, and they desired to know more of the truths He taught. They longed that the comfort of His love might be with them continually.

HLv 163.3

Jesus watched the countenances of His hearers. Faces that expressed interest gave Him satisfaction. As the arrows of truth pierced through the barriers of selfishness, working contrition and gratitude, the Saviour was glad. When His eye recognized faces He had seen before, His countenance lighted up with joy. When truth plainly spoken touched some cherished idol, He marked the change of countenance which told that the light was unwelcome. When He saw men refuse the message of peace, His heart was pierced to the very depths.

HLv 163.4

In the synagogue Jesus was interrupted while speaking of His mission to set free the captives of Satan. A madman rushed from among the people, crying out, “Let us alone; what have we to do with Thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art Thou come to destroy us? I know Thee who Thou art; the Holy One of God.”

HLv 163.5

All was confusion and alarm. The attention of the people was diverted from Christ, and His words were unheeded. But Jesus rebuked the demon, saying, “Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.”

HLv 163.6

The mind of this wretched sufferer had been darkened by Satan, but in the Saviour’s presence, he was roused to long for freedom from Satan’s control. But the demon resisted. When the man tried to appeal to Jesus for help, the evil spirit put words in his mouth, and he cried out in an agony of fear.

HLv 164.1

The demoniac partially comprehended that he was in the presence of One who could set him free; but when he tried to come within reach of that mighty hand, another’s will held him, another’s words found utterance through him. The conflict between the power of Satan and his own desire for freedom was terrible.

HLv 164.2

The demon exerted all his power to retain control of his victim. It seemed that the tortured man must lose his life in the struggle with the foe that had been the ruin of his manhood. But the Saviour spoke with authority and set the captive free. The man stood before the wondering people happy in the freedom of self-possession. Even the demon had testified to the divine power of the Saviour. The eye that had so lately glared with the fire of insanity now beamed with intelligence and overflowed with grateful tears.

HLv 164.3

The people exclaimed, “What is this? a new teaching! With authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” Mark 1:27, RSV.

HLv 164.4

This man had been fascinated by the pleasures of sin and had thought to make life a grand carnival. He did not dream of becoming a terror to the world and the reproach of his family. He thought his time could be spent in innocent folly. But intemperance and frivolity perverted his nature, and Satan took absolute control of him. When he would have sacrificed wealth and pleasure to regain his lost manhood, he had become helpless in the grasp of the evil one. Satan had taken possession of all his faculties. When once the wretched man was in his power, the fiend became relentless in his cruelty. So with all who yield to evil; the fascinating pleasure of their early career ends in despair or the madness of a ruined soul.

HLv 164.5

The same evil spirit controlled the unbelieving Jews, but with them he assumed an air of piety. Their condition was more hopeless than that of the demoniac, for they felt no need of Christ and were therefore held fast under the power of Satan.

HLv 165.1

Christ’s personal ministry among men was the time of greatest activity for the forces of the kingdom of darkness. For ages Satan had been seeking to control the bodies and souls of men, to bring upon them sin and suffering; then he had charged all this misery on God. Jesus was revealing to men the character of God, breaking Satan’s power, and setting his captives free. Love and power from heaven were moving the hearts of men, and the prince of evil was aroused. At every step he contested the work of Christ.

HLv 165.3

The leaders and teachers of Israel were neglecting the only means by which they could have withstood evil spirits. It was by the Word of God that Christ overcame the wicked one. By their interpretation the Jewish leaders made God’s Word express sentiments that God had never given. They disputed over technicalities, and practically denied essential truths. Thus God’s Word was robbed of its power, and evil spirits worked their will.

HLv 165.4

History is repeating. With the open Bible before them, many religious leaders of our time are destroying faith in it as the word of God. They dissect the Word, and set their own opinions above its plainest statements. This is why infidelity runs riot, and iniquity is rife.

HLv 166.1

Those who turn from the plain teaching of Scripture and the convicting power of God’s Holy Spirit are inviting the control of demons. Criticism and speculation have opened the way for spiritism to gain a foothold even in the professed churches of our Lord Jesus Christ. Side by side with the preaching of the gospel, agencies are at work which are lying spirits. Many a man tampers with these merely from curiosity, but seeing evidence of more than human power, he is lured on until he is controlled by the mysterious power of a will stronger than his own. The defenses of the soul are broken down. Secret sin or master passion may hold him a captive as helpless as the demoniac of Capernaum. Yet his condition is not hopeless.

HLv 166.3

None have fallen so low, none are so vile, but that they can find deliverance in Christ. The demoniac could utter only the words of Satan, yet the heart’s unspoken appeal was heard. No cry from a soul in need, though it fail of words, will be unheeded. Those who will consent to enter into covenant relation with the God of heaven are invited by the Saviour, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” Isaiah 27:5. Angels of God will contend for that soul with prevailing power. “Can ... the captives of a tyrant be rescued? ... I will contend with those who contend with you, and I will save your children.” Isaiah 49:24, 25, RSV.

HLv 166.4

While the congregation in the synagogue were still spellbound, Jesus withdrew to the home of Peter for a little rest. But here also a shadow had fallen. The mother of Peter’s wife lay sick, stricken with a “great fever.” Jesus rebuked the disease, and the sufferer arose and ministered to the Master and His disciples.

HLv 167.1

Tidings of the work of Christ spread rapidly throughout Capernaum. For fear of the rabbis, the people dared not come for healing on the Sabbath; but no sooner had the sun disappeared below the horizon, than the inhabitants of the city pressed toward the humble dwelling that sheltered Jesus. The sick were brought into the Saviour’s presence.

HLv 167.2

Hour after hour they came and went, for none could know whether tomorrow would find the Healer still among them. Never before had Capernaum witnessed a day like this. The air was filled with the voice of triumph and shouts of deliverance. The Saviour rejoiced in His power to restore the sufferers to health and happiness.

HLv 167.3

It was far into the night when the multitude departed, and silence settled down on the home of Simon. The long, exciting day was past, and Jesus sought rest. But while the city was still wrapped in slumber, “a great while before day, ... [the Saviour] went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”

HLv 167.4

Jesus often dismissed His disciples to visit their homes and rest; but He gently resisted their efforts to draw Him away from His labors. All day He toiled, and at eventide or in the early morning, He went to the mountains for communion with His Father. Often He passed the entire night in prayer and meditation, returning at daybreak to His work among the people.

HLv 167.5

Early in the morning, Peter and his companions came to Jesus, saying that already the people were seeking Him. The authorities at Jerusalem were seeking to murder Him; even His own townsmen had tried to take His life; but at Capernaum He was welcomed with enthusiasm, and the hopes of the disciples kindled anew. It might be that among the liberty-loving Galileans were to be found the supporters of the new kingdom. With surprise they heard Christ’s words, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also; for that is why I came out.” Mark 1:38, RSV. Jesus was not satisfied to attract attention to Himself as a wonder worker or healer. While the people were eager to believe that He had come as a king, to establish an earthly reign, He desired to turn their minds away from the earthly to the spiritual.

HLv 168.1

And the wonder of the careless crowd jarred upon His spirit. The homage the world gives to position, or wealth, or talent was foreign to the Son of man. None of the means men employ to win allegiance did Jesus use. It had been prophesied of Him, “He will not cry or lift up His voice, or make it heard in the street; ... He will faithfully bring forth justice.” Isaiah 42:2, 3, RSV.

HLv 168.2

In the life of Jesus, no noisy disputation, no ostentatious worship, no act to gain applause was ever witnessed. Christ was hid in God, and God was revealed in the character of His Son.

HLv 168.3

The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splendor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. Quietly and gently the daylight dispels the darkness and wakes the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2.

From Heaven With Love

Satan Works Under Disguise

HLv 165.2

So it will be in the final conflict between righteousness and sin. While new life and power are descending on the disciples of Christ, a new life is energizing the agencies of Satan. With subtlety gained through centuries of conflict, the prince of evil works under disguise, clothed as an angel of light. Multitudes are “giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1.

HLv 166.2

He can overcome by the power of the Word. If we desire to know and to do God’s will, His promises are ours: “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” “If any man’s will is to do His will, he shall know whether the teaching is from God.” John 8:32; 7:17, RSV. Through faith in these promises every man may be delivered from the snares of error and the control of sin.

Luke 4:32

Education

Chapter 8—The Teacher Sent From God

Ed 81.3

The people “were astonished at His teaching (R.V.), for His word was with power.” Luke 4:32. Never before spoke one who had such power to awaken thought, to kindle aspiration, to arouse every capability of body, mind, and soul.

The Watchman

February 11, 1908

SW February 11, 1908, par. 10

The people “were astonished at his teaching [John 7:46, R. V.]; for his word was with power.” Luke 4:32. Never before spoke one who had such power to awaken thought, to kindle aspiration, to arouse every capability of body, mind, and soul.

From Heaven With Love

Selfish Motives Exposed

HLv 303.5

Standing thus, the center of attraction to that vast throng, Jesus addressed them as no man had ever done. His words showed a knowledge of the sacrificial service and the teachings of the prophets, far exceeding that of the priests and rabbis. As one who beheld the Unseen, He spoke with positive authority of the earthly and the heavenly. As at Capernaum, the people were astonished at His teaching, “for His word was with power.” Luke 4:32. He made every possible effort to bring them to repentance. He would not be rejected and murdered by His own nation if He could save them from the guilt of such a deed.

From the Heart

Jesus’ Convincing Power, June 19

FH 182.1

And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority. Luke 4:32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 26, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 26, 1904, par. 5

Jesus refrained from taking a course that would bring such a crisis in His life as to cut short His lifework. The opposition of the priests and rulers at Jerusalem had driven the mighty Healer from their midst. He restricted, for a time, His labors to Galilee. Often He left one field of labor for another in order to escape from those who were seeking His life. When He was rejected at Nazareth, and His own townsmen tried to kill Him, He went down to Capernaum, where the people were astonished at His teaching, “for His word was with power.” [Luke 4:32.] He did not, by rushing into danger, hasten a crisis. He knew that He was to receive the world’s hatred; He knew that His work would result in His death; but prematurely to expose Himself would not be the will of His Father.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 111, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 6

Scripture is the key that unlocks Scripture. The suppositions of men are worthless. Great care is to be exercised, lest human fallacies be brought in. Every student is to be educated to give a clear exposition of the Word, according to the example Christ has given in His teaching. He said nothing to gratify curiosity or to stimulate selfish ambition. He did not deal in abstract theories, but in that which is essential to the development of character; that which will enlarge man’s capacity for knowing God, and increase his power to do good. He spoke of those truths that relate to the conduct of life and that unite man with eternity. We read that the common people heard Him gladly. The people “were astonished at His teaching; for His word was with power.” [Luke 4:32.]

Lift Him Up

Jesus’ Teaching—Simple, but With Authority, June 7

LHU 172.6

All who heard the Saviour “were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power” (Luke 4:32)....

Lift Him Up

Christ’s Teaching Embraced the World, June 12

LHU 177.4

The people “were astonished at his teaching” (Matthew 7:28, ASV); “for his word was with power” (Luke 4:32). Never before spoke one who had such power to awaken thought, to kindle aspiration, to arouse every capability of body, mind, and soul.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 26—At Capernaum

DA 253.3

All who heard the Saviour “were astonished at His doctrine: for His word was with power.” “He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Luke 4:32; Matthew 7:29. The teaching of the scribes and elders was cold and formal, like a lesson learned by rote. To them the word of God possessed no vital power. Their own ideas and traditions were substituted for its teaching. In the accustomed round of service they professed to explain the law, but no inspiration from God stirred their own hearts or the hearts of their hearers.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 49—At the Feast of Tabernacles

DA 452.3

Standing thus, the center of attraction to that vast throng, Jesus addressed them as no man had ever done. His words showed a knowledge of the laws and institutions of Israel, of the sacrificial service and the teachings of the prophets, far exceeding that of the priests and rabbis. He broke through the barriers of formalism and tradition. The scenes of the future life seemed outspread before Him. As one who beheld the Unseen, He spoke of the earthly and the heavenly, the human and the divine, with positive authority. His words were most clear and convincing; and again, as at Capernaum, the people were astonished at His teaching; “for His word was with power.” Luke 4:32. Under a variety of representations He warned His hearers of the calamity that would follow all who rejected the blessings He came to bring them. He had given them every possible proof that He came forth from God, and made every possible effort to bring them to repentance. He would not be rejected and murdered by His own nation if He could save them from the guilt of such a deed.

The Upward Look

Searching the Scriptures, March 13

UL 86.2

Scripture is the key that unlocks Scripture. The suppositions of men are worthless. Great care is to be exercised, lest human fallacies be brought in. Every student is to be educated to give a clear exposition of the Word, according to the example Christ has given in His teaching. He said nothing to gratify curiosity or to stimulate selfish ambition. He did not deal in abstract theories, but in that which is essential to the development of character, that which will enlarge man’s capacity for knowing God, and increase his power to do good. He spoke of those truths that relate to the conduct of life, and that unite man with eternity. We read that the common people heard Him gladly. The people “were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power” (Luke 4:32).

To Be Like Jesus

Witness at Every Large Gathering in Cities, September 20

BLJ 278.1

And they were astonished at His teaching, for His word was with authority. Luke 4:32, NKJV.

To Be Like Jesus

Memorize the Scriptures, Preparing for the Future, November 22

BLJ 343.4

So bitter would be the enmity to the gospel that even the tenderest earthly ties would be disregarded. The disciples of Christ would be betrayed to death by the members of their own households.... But He bade them not to expose themselves unnecessarily to persecution. He Himself often left one field of labor for another, in order to escape from those who were seeking His life. When He was rejected at Nazareth, and His own townsmen tried to kill Him, He went down to Capernaum, and there the people were astonished at His teaching, “for his word was with power” (Luke 4:32). So His servants were not to be discouraged by persecution, but to seek a place where they could still labor for the salvation of souls.

Luke 4:33-36

The Great Controversy

Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits

GC 515.2

Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syrophoenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by His word. (Mark 7:26-30). “One possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb” (Matthew 12:22); a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him” (Mark 9:17-27); the maniac who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil” (Luke 4:33-36), disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum—all were healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding His mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power He commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” Luke 4:36.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits

GC88 515.2

Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syro-Phenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by his word. [Mark 7:26-30.] One “possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb,” [Matthew 12:22.] a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him,” [Mark 9:17-27.] the maniac, who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil,” [Luke 4:33-36.] disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum, were all healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding his mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” [Luke 4:33-36.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 26—Agency of Evil Spirits

4SP 334.1

Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syrophenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by his word. [Mark 7:26-30.] One “possessed with a devil, blind and dumb,” [Matthew 12:22.] a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him,” [Mark 9:17-27.] the maniac, who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil,” [Luke 4:33-36.] disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum, were all healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding his mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.”

From Here to Forever

Guardian Angels

HF 317.4

Other instances are recorded: The daughter of the Syrophoenician woman, grievously vexed with a devil whom Jesus cast out by His word (Mark 7:25-30); a youth who had a spirit that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him” (Mark 9:17-27); the maniac, tormented by a spirit of an unclean devil who disturbed the Sabbath quiet at Capernaum (Luke 4:33-36)—all were healed by the Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to torment his victim no more. The worshipers at Capernaum “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” Luke 4:36.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Evil Angels Oppose God’s Plans

GrH_c 8.1

Luke 4:35

Temperance

Chapter 5—Help for the Tempted

Te 122.2

Jesus rebuked the demon, saying, “Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.” Mark 1:24; Luke 4:35.

The Ministry of Healing

“Go, and Sin No More”

MH 91.3

Jesus rebuked the demon, saying, “Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.” Luke 4:35.

Luke 4:36

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 12—The Good Shepherd

SJ 79.1

By His word, even the devils were driven out from the ones whom they had been possessing. Those who saw this wonderful work were astonished, and said: “What a word is this! For with authority and power He commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out!” Luke 4:36.

Luke 4:38-43

Lift Him Up

He Is the Sun of Righteousness, March 13

LHU 86.2

In the fisherman’s home at Capernaum the mother of Peter’s wife is lying sick of “a great fever,” and “they tell him of her.” Jesus “touched her hand, and the fever left her,” and she arose and ministered to the Saviour and His disciples (Luke 4:38; Mark 1:30; Matthew 8:15).

LHU 86.6

Early in the morning Peter and his companions came to Jesus, saying that already the people of Capernaum were seeking Him. With surprise they heard Christ’s words, “I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also; for therefore am I sent” (Luke 4:43).

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 2—Days of Ministry

MH 29.1

In the fisherman’s home at Capernaum the mother of Peter’s wife is lying sick of “a great fever,” and “they tell Him of her.” Jesus “touched her hand, and the fever left her,” and she arose and ministered to the Saviour and His disciples. Luke 4:38; Mark 1:30; Matthew 8:15.

MH 30.1

Luke 4:40-43

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 86, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 86, 1902, par. 12

Again we read, “When the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ, the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak; for they knew that he was Christ. And when it was day, he departed, and went into a desert place; and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also; for therefore am I sent.” [Luke 4:40-43.]

Luke 4:40-44

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 92, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 92, 1902, par. 38

Christ did not confine His labors to one place. Of His work we read, “When the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on everyone of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ, the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak; for they knew that he was Christ. And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place; and the people sought him, and came unto him and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also; for therefore am I sent. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.” [Luke 4:40-44.]

Luke 4:42

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 38, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 38, 1889, par. 3

The Lord Jesus was tempted in all points like as we are, but Satan obtained no victory over Him, for He preserved His oneness with Infinite Power. Prayer to His Father strengthened Him for His work and for His conflicts, just as prayer will strengthen every soul who comes to the Father in faith. The world’s Redeemer “rising up a great while before day, he went into a solitary place there prayed.” [Mark 1:35.] On one occasion His disciples went to look for Him, and when they had found Him, said to Him, “All men are seeking for thee.” [Verse 37.] Again, Luke makes the statement, “He withdrew himself into the wilderness and prayed.” [Luke 5:16.] And again the statement is made: “And when it was day, He departed and went into a desert place.” [Luke 4:42.] And again, “And it came to pass in those days, that he went into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God; and when it was day, he called unto him his disciples; and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles.” [Luke 6:12, 13.]

Luke 4:43

The Review and Herald

May 4, 1911

RH May 4, 1911, par. 10

It was a part of the work of Christ to preach the gospel in the cities of Galilee. See Luke 4:43. Therefore, when he would have been hindered in Judea, he could do effective work in the northern division. But at the time of the feast of tabernacles, the great multitudes that gathered at Jerusalem gave him such an opportunity for teaching that no fear for the consequences would keep him from attending. Suddenly he appeared before them in the very temple.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 62, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, par. 28

God wants His people to awake to the situation. He wants them to realize that there are thousands in our world ready to perish in their sins. He wants us to take up the medical missionary work and carry it forward in the highest lines, working as Christ worked. He went from city to city preaching the gospel and healing the sick, and when the people of one city asked Him to stay with them, He said, “I must go to other cities also.” [Luke 4:43.] In His work the gospel and medical missionary work were firmly united. He wants His people to stand where angels of God can stand with them, making an impression on human hearts. He wants you to teach your children to love and keep His commandments. Do not neglect your children to do missionary work. Take them with you, or else leave them with some one who will train them wisely and tenderly.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 81, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, par. 25

God wants everyone to represent Christ. We are to work as He worked. He did not confine His efforts to one place. When the people of one city pressed Him to remain with them, He said, “I must preach the kingdom of God in other cities also; for therefore am I sent.” [Luke 4:43.] God wants us to show in the work in all parts of the world an interest like the interest of Christ. He wants us to do all in our power to bring prosperity to His work, that He may be represented.

Luke 4:43-44

The Upward Look

Go Work in My Vineyard, April 8

UL 112.5

Christ did not confine His labors to one place. Of His work we read, ... “And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee” (Luke 4:43, 44).

This Day With God

Witnessing Instructions, April 8

TDG 107.5

Christ did not confine His labors to one place. Of His work we read, “... And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee” (Luke 4:43, 44).