EGW WritingsLuke 8

Radiant Religion

Sinful Pleasures Hinder a Fruitful Life, August 14

RRe 228.1

And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life and bring no fruit to perfection. Luke 8:1.

Radiant Religion

Jesus Took Glad Tidings from Place to Place, November 3

RRe 309.1

It came to pass afterward, that He went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with Him. Luke 8:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 197, 1899

circa 1899

Previously unpublished.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 1

Read Luke chapter 8. Read this whole chapter. This chapter is important. Read especially the parable of the sower, [beginning with] verse 4. All these words are important to us.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 2

Here is brought to view, [Luke] chapter 9, the fact that there were evil spirits at work to confuse the minds—even devils—turned out of heaven to counterwork. But the Lord Jesus is the superior. “Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.” [Verse 1.] There were fallen angels working to confuse and make the minds of the people darkened with Satan’s counterworking power. But Christ appointed His disciples notwithstanding Satan’s working.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 3

Satan was the fallen angel [along with] his rebellious company. And now Jesus sent His chosen few to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Now a work is given to His disciples: “And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart. And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them. And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching” (Luke 9:3-6). Read this whole chapter. Here is where Christ makes His work counter to satanic agencies. This chapter brings to us assurance of the heavenly agencies working with Christ against satanic agencies. Here is the supremacy of the divine over the satanic. Read this revelation of the divine working of the heavenly. This whole chapter distinctly opens to us the agencies that are at work—one to save souls and [the other] the fallen order that were turned out of heaven. Read and be wise.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 4

Luke 10, verse 21. Nothing rejoices the heart of the Lord Jesus so much as the progress of the Gospel and adding souls to the church of such as shall be saved. Conversion of souls from sin to holiness is Christ’s joy—a full joy in [the converting] of even one soul. He rejoiced in spirit, “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: for I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.” Luke 10:21-24.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 5

The Lord would have our people in Battle Creek take into their labors those who have not heard the message of warning which is for their soul’s salvation to know. Plants have to be made in many places. Battle Creek is becoming congested. All who carry responsibilities and, in this perilous period of time, will bind themselves up with those who have had great light yet refused to accept it—where is their wisdom? When the terrible conflict shall come and the strength of Israel is gone, God inquires, What will you do, unfaithful shepherds, with the flock committed to your charge to protect and save from the ruin you have brought upon them because they have dishonored My name? What have you done with My flock, My beautiful flock? Where wilt thou take them for shelter? How can they escape the bewildering snares? You have bound them up with unbelievers. What deception will come upon leaders, educators, especially upon physicians! The Lord has given them warning but they heeded not His voice: “Thou hast brought men, transgressors of My law, to be captains and become heads.”

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 6

Hezekiah began to give himself away when he showed his treasures to the ambassadors of the king of Babylon, tempting him thereby to come and plunder his boasted possessions. Those who betray sacred trusts in alliance with unbelievers, and confide in them, make rods for themselves, having lost the favor of God in whom they should have trusted. They have brought a weakness of Christian example to other souls because they have not made straight paths for their feet, “because thou hast not trusted in Me, your God, fully, nor in the power of truth in perfect, full obedience to all My commandments.” Unfaithful stewards, your reward will be according to your works.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 7

There is contention and strife marked in all your assemblies, and God is dishonored. There are voices that are unreasonable, judging one another, and then there is retaliation. The Lord is not pleased with physicians who are working in Chicago, who are spending money lavishly amid the lower classes and berating the ministers that will not do the very same work they are doing. This work is consuming and not producing. Very few [of those who] have all their lives been educated in sin will be saved to become true laborers to win souls to the truth. Labor is to be done for the poor as well as for the rich, but the means and talents of our ministers are not to be used to make a Salvation Army record. Let them attend to their work that God has given them to do, but the Lord has another class of work to be done at this period of this earth’s history.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 8

The voice was speaking, instructing Dr. Kellogg clearly in warning. Dr. K, you are carrying on this work heavily while fields are suffering for spiritual light. Come into line; [let] all come into line; ministers and physicians are to harmonize. You are making sad work, Dr. K. You are getting your arms about a class that will not be in any way wise leaders who can be trusted. Ministers are set aside. Because they are not prepared to leave their church work to follow your example, you have instituted a war against them.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 9

You and your associates are making a mistake, a mistake. The work is being swayed in a way where much money will be consumed, but there will be very little, if any, producing. Your movements are not in the Lord’s order and their [method of] carrying the work in America is not in right lines. You did start the work and should have an interest in it, but it has been made all and in all. The money you would draw to be expended is leaving the work in the churches without means to pay their ministers, and the very work God would have done is not done. The besotted drunkards, supposed to be reformed, listen to the words of Dr. K and his pressing down upon the Lord’s ministers because they do not unite with him is out of place. This kind of irreverence for God’s ministers is not inspired of God. It is something that God condemns. It is a lack of respect for the ministers that you, Dr. K, have no more right to [exhibit] than they have to do the same thing to you, as they see what lengths you are carrying your ideas to work in the slums.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 10

God has not placed any such burden upon you to magnify that which you suppose to be failure in the ministers when working on the same plan. They see you carrying things to great extremes, and your masterful spirit is exercised without showing the proper respect to the Lord’s chosen men to preach the gospel. You would gather means from every source possible to expend in a work the Lord has not appointed you or them to do, because the work in the highways will reach many more souls that have not ruined soul, body, and spirit, disqualifying them to have wisdom and judgment under your training. There is danger, great danger, in your appointing the medical students to do this work.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 11

We have a work to do—house to house labor. We ask our people to save their means which now is so very scarce to support our camp meetings. We have all classes that come to these meetings, and there are appointed ones to look after high and low to see that the poor are fed and assisted, then instructed, and the papers and publications placed in their hands are received. This is our plan to work: to call them to our meetings, holding [the meetings] in localities near the cities and within reach of the cities. This is the way that is outlined before me that we should work.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 12

God calls for the means being used so lavishly on the outcasts of our cities to come to us to be able to work these new fields that have never been worked, never heard the truth. O my brethren and sisters in America, why are things being swayed as they are with so little accomplished with the means that is being saved? You may suppose that you are being led by the Lord, but you have turned out of the way while you give so much time and money. There will be found men of splendid genius but lost in the quicksand of ungovernable passions and imbruted habits, detestable vices.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 13

The Lord has instructed me to instruct you, Dr. K, that you are not appointed of God to carry things as you are doing. I must raise my voice against this. There is a great, ennobling work to be done to reach the higher classes. Men will be converted to become true laborers together with God. There will be conscientious workers. Your Gospel Wagon enterprise is a mistake. Well organized [labor] is needed in every place where the truth is brought to the people in our cities. I have seen the work of the Lord in this country, but there is so little means to do [it] with. Were my husband alive, I could speak to him and we [could] consult together in regard to the work and how it shall be carried.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 14

Bro. John Kellogg, I speak to you. There are schemes you are devising to make your name a praise in all the earth, but you are in a position that God cannot work with you. You have in various ways worked out of God’s lines, arm in arm with unbelieving ministers. Your works were greatly magnified, and their results. And then they put articles in the papers, and it was just as you told them, and you denied them to me when presented to you. But I did not say unto you all the truth in these matters. It was getting out of your line that is spoiling your experience, and it may be because of your pride of heart you will never see clear light again. We are calling and pleading for means that you handle so lavishly, and why do you not respond?

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 15

Your lessons are being learned in a school that is not of a character that will qualify you for the high and noble work worthy of God that would stand the test of the judgment. Men who are working with an eye single to the glory of God are men of humble prayer. You have done much with means to exalt JHK. There is an infidelity that is taking possession of your soul that you would, could you see all the outcome of your plans, despise yourself. I will leave much unsaid. I have diaries which make more definite statements.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 16

I see you becoming an untruthful man. This bears down my soul with grief inexpressible. What can I say to help you? You are devising, you are planning, that Battle Creek shall bear the name of JHK as a remarkable man, but the curtain has been lifted. You are represented to me as seated at the marriage supper without the true significance of your state, and the Lord Jesus came in and said, “Friend, how comest thou in hither without the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] I do not want you to continue this kind of labor until our work shall be lowered into the dust. God has a most sacred work to be done and you are moulding minds not after the order of our Lord.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 17

There was work to be done in all our cities in evangelistic labor, but [not] to sink the grand and holy work of God which is to stand before nations [by] the denominated people of God [who are] appointed to do a sacred work before the highest authority in temperance. Bringing converts to accept the work, to see saloons closed and one of the greatest evils no longer dealing out poisoned liquor that create madness and bloodshed, this kind of work can be handled at our camp meetings in a wise way. The truth as it is in Jesus, in all its bearings, to be proclaimed as represented in Isaiah 58, is all after God’s order, but Dr. Kellogg began a warfare and encouraged students that they must have an education in the slum work of Chicago. While some good may be done, what amount of means is expended for so very little returns?

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 18

This has not been the Lord’s way, while our camp meetings will reach all classes. God has not laid this burden upon Seventh-day Adventists to do this certain work, for then the means and time are spent that should be given to the cities to get access to the people, planning and working to reach the higher classes especially upon the subject of temperance. While the whole world is to be reached with the message of the law of God on the Sabbath question, means are being absorbed in various experiments that are consuming but not producing. The Lord looks upon the cities in America that are not having well-planned methods made [in their behalf]. Give the warnings to the world. I am instructed that the means that are consumed in this one place, Chicago, would carry the truth to thousands, and this ought not to be. But the withholding [of means] is because a variety of manufacturing is engaged in that the Lord has not ordained.

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 19

There needs to be altogether a different understanding in regard to the ministers and the physicians. This management is not altogether on one side, but if there was a true converting power of God circulating like the healthful current of blood in the body, great changes would take place. Ministers are not respectful to Dr. Kellogg in the matter of health reform. There is a position taken that creates disunion, and this is displeasing to God. This matter is an entering wedge, but Dr. K knows the light that has been given decidedly against tea, Java coffee, and flesh meats, and then he has felt altogether too much injured and he has despised the course of some of the ministers. The course of some has been decidedly against the light God has given, but Dr. K has felt too strongly. I have given my decided testimony against these indulgences; it was an injury to the ministers and worked up division, but Dr. K has borne down on the ministers as a body in an unjustifiable manner.

NP

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

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

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 40, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 2

At that time it was customary for a writer to send his manuscript to some one for examination and criticism. Luke chose Theophilus, as a man in whom he had confidence, to perform this important work. He first directs the attention of Theophilus to the record of Christ’s life as given in the book of Luke which had also been addressed by the same writer to Theophilus. He says:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

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

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 2—“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”

COL 33.1

By the parable of the sower, Christ illustrates the things of the kingdom of heaven, and the work of the great Husbandman for His people. Like a sower in the field, He came to scatter the heavenly grain of truth. And His parable teaching itself was the seed with which the most precious truths of His grace were sown. Because of its simplicity the parable of the sower has not been valued as it should be. From the natural seed cast into the soil, Christ desires to lead our minds to the gospel seed, the sowing of which results in bringing man back to his loyalty to God. He who gave the parable of the tiny seed is the Sovereign of heaven, and the same laws that govern earthly seed sowing govern the sowing of the seeds of truth.

COL 33.2

By the Sea of Galilee a company had gathered to see and hear Jesus—an eager, expectant throng. The sick were there, lying on their mats, waiting to present their cases before Him. It was Christ’s God-given right to heal the woes of a sinful race, and He now rebuked disease, and diffused around Him life and health and peace.

COL 34.1

As the crowd continued to increase, the people pressed close about Christ until there was no room to receive them. Then, speaking a word to the men in their fishing boats, He stepped into the boat that was waiting to take Him across the lake, and bidding His disciples push off a little from the land, He spoke to the multitude upon the shore.

COL 34.2

Beside the sea lay the beautiful plain of Gennesaret, beyond rose the hills, and upon hillside and plain both sowers and reapers were busy, the one casting seed and the other harvesting the early grain. Looking upon the scene, Christ said—

COL 34.3

“Behold, the sower went forth to sow; and as he sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside, and the birds came and devoured them” (R.V.); “some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth; and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: and when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: but other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.”

COL 34.4

Christ’s mission was not understood by the people of His time. The manner of His coming was not in accordance with their expectations. The Lord Jesus was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. Its imposing services were of divine appointment. They were designed to teach the people that at the time appointed One would come to whom those ceremonies pointed. But the Jews had exalted the forms and ceremonies and had lost sight of their object. The traditions, maxims, and enactments of men hid from them the lessons which God intended to convey. These maxims and traditions became an obstacle to their understanding and practice of true religion. And when the Reality came, in the person of Christ, they did not recognize in Him the fulfillment of all their types, the substance of all their shadows. They rejected the antitype, and clung to their types and useless ceremonies. The Son of God had come, but they continued to ask for a sign. The message, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” they answered by demands for a miracle. Matthew 3:2. The gospel of Christ was a stumbling block to them because they demanded signs instead of a Saviour. They expected the Messiah to prove His claims by mighty deeds of conquest, to establish His empire on the ruins of earthly kingdoms. This expectation Christ answered in the parable of the sower. Not by force of arms, not by violent interpositions, was the kingdom of God to prevail, but by the implanting of a new principle in the hearts of men.

COL 35.1

“He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man.” Matthew 13:37. Christ had come, not as a king, but as a sower; not for the overthrow of kingdoms, but for the scattering of seed; not to point His followers to earthly triumphs and national greatness, but to a harvest to be gathered after patient toil and through losses and disappointments.

COL 35.2

The Pharisees perceived the meaning of Christ’s parable, but to them its lesson was unwelcome. They affected not to understand it. To the multitude it involved in still greater mystery the purpose of the new teacher, whose words had so strangely moved their hearts and so bitterly disappointed their ambitions. The disciples themselves had not understood the parable, but their interest was awakened. They came to Jesus privately and asked for an explanation.

COL 35.3

This was the desire which Christ wished to arouse, that He might give them more definite instruction. He explained the parable to them, as He will make plain His word to all who seek Him in sincerity of heart. Those who study the word of God with hearts open to the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, will not remain in darkness as to the meaning of the word. “If any man willeth to do His will,” Christ said, “he shall know of the teaching whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.” John 7:17, R.V. All who come to Christ for a clearer knowledge of the truth will receive it. He will unfold to them the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, and these mysteries will be understood by the heart that longs to know the truth. A heavenly light will shine into the soul temple, and will be revealed to others as the bright shining of a lamp on a dark path.

COL 36.1

“The sower went forth to sow” (R.V.). In the East the state of affairs was so unsettled, and there was so great danger from violence that the people dwelt chiefly in walled towns, and the husbandmen went forth daily to their labor outside the walls. So Christ, the heavenly Sower, went forth to sow. He left His home of security and peace, left the glory that He had with the Father before the world was, left His position upon the throne of the universe. He went forth, a suffering, tempted man; went forth in solitude, to sow in tears, to water with His blood, the seed of life for a world lost.

COL 36.2

His servants in like manner must go forth to sow. When called to become a sower of the seed of truth, Abraham was bidden, “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee.” Genesis 12:1. “And he went out, not knowing whither he went.” Hebrews 11:8. So to the apostle Paul, praying in the temple at Jerusalem, came the message from God, “Depart; for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.” Acts 22:21. So those who are called to unite with Christ must leave all, in order to follow Him. Old associations must be broken up, plans of life relinquished, earthly hopes surrendered. In toil and tears, in solitude, and through sacrifice, must the seed be sown.

COL 37.1

“The sower soweth the word.” Christ came to sow the world with truth. Ever since the fall of man, Satan has been sowing the seeds of error. It was by a lie that he first gained control over men, and thus he still works to overthrow God’s kingdom in the earth and to bring men under his power. A sower from a higher world, Christ came to sow the seeds of truth. He who had stood in the councils of God, who had dwelt in the innermost sanctuary of the Eternal, could bring to men the pure principles of truth. Ever since the fall of man, Christ had been the Revealer of truth to the world. By Him the incorruptible seed, “the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever,” is communicated to men. 1 Peter 1:23. In that first promise spoken to our fallen race in Eden, Christ was sowing the gospel seed. But it is to His personal ministry among men and to the work which He thus established that the parable of the sower especially applies.

COL 38.1

The word of God is the seed. Every seed has in itself a germinating principle. In it the life of the plant is enfolded. So there is life in God’s word. Christ says, “The words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. “He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life.” John 5:24. In every command and in every promise of the word of God is the power, the very life of God, by which the command may be fulfilled and the promise realized. He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very life and character of God.

COL 38.2

Every seed brings forth fruit after its kind. Sow the seed under right conditions, and it will develop its own life in the plant. Receive into the soul by faith the incorruptible seed of the word, and it will bring forth a character and a life after the similitude of the character and the life of God.

COL 38.3

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

COL 39.1

Christ’s servants are to do the same work. In our day, as of old, the vital truths of God’s word are set aside for human theories and speculations. Many professed ministers of the gospel do not accept the whole Bible as the inspired word. One wise man rejects one portion; another questions another part. They set up their judgment as superior to the word; and the Scripture which they do teach rests upon their own authority. Its divine authenticity is destroyed. Thus the seeds of infidelity are sown broadcast; for the people become confused and know not what to believe. There are many beliefs that the mind has no right to entertain. In the days of Christ the rabbis put a forced, mystical construction upon many portions of Scripture. Because the plain teaching of God’s word condemned their practices, they tried to destroy its force. The same thing is done today. The word of God is made to appear mysterious and obscure in order to excuse transgression of His law. Christ rebuked these practices in His day. He taught that the word of God was to be understood by all. He pointed to the Scriptures as of unquestionable authority, and we should do the same. The Bible is to be presented as the word of the infinite God, as the end of all controversy and the foundation of all faith.

COL 40.1

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

COL 40.2

Christ’s favorite theme was the paternal tenderness and abundant grace of God; He dwelt much upon the holiness of His character and His law; He presented Himself to the people as the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let these be the themes of Christ’s ministers. Present the truth as it is in Jesus. Make plain the requirements of the law and the gospel. Tell the people of Christ’s life of self-denial and sacrifice; of His humiliation and death; of His resurrection and ascension; of His intercession for them in the courts of God; of His promise, “I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:3.

COL 40.3

Instead of discussing erroneous theories, or seeking to combat the opponents of the gospel, follow the example of Christ. Let fresh truths from God’s treasure house flash into life. “Preach the word.” “Sow beside all waters.” “Be instant in season, out of season.” “He that hath My word, let him speak My word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord.” “Every word of God is pure.... Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” 2 Timothy 4:2; Isaiah 32:20; Jeremiah 23:28; Proverbs 30:5, 6.

COL 41.1

“The sower soweth the word.” Here is presented the great principle which should underlie all educational work. “The seed is the word of God.” But in too many schools of our day God’s word is set aside. Other subjects occupy the mind. The study of infidel authors holds a large place in the educational system. Skeptical sentiments are interwoven in the matter placed in school books. Scientific research becomes misleading, because its discoveries are misinterpreted and perverted. The word of God is compared with the supposed teachings of science, and is made to appear uncertain and untrustworthy. Thus the seeds of doubt are planted in the minds of the youth, and in time of temptation they spring up. When faith in God’s word is lost, the soul has no guide, no safeguard. The youth are drawn into paths which lead away from God and from everlasting life.

COL 41.2

To this cause may in great degree be attributed the widespread iniquity in our world today. When the word of God is set aside, its power to restrain the evil passions of the natural heart is rejected. Men sow to the flesh, and of the flesh they reap corruption.

COL 41.3

And here, too, is the great cause of mental weakness and inefficiency. In turning from God’s word to feed on the writings of uninspired men, the mind becomes dwarfed and cheapened. It is not brought in contact with deep, broad principles of eternal truth. The understanding adapts itself to the comprehension of the things with which it is familiar, and in this devotion to finite things it is weakened, its power is contracted, and after a time it becomes unable to expand.

COL 41.4

All this is false education. The work of every teacher should be to fasten the mind of the youth upon the grand truths of the word of Inspiration. This is the education essential for this life and for the life to come.

COL 42.1

And let it not be thought that this will prevent the study of the sciences, or cause a lower standard in education. The knowledge of God is as high as heaven and as broad as the universe. There is nothing so ennobling and invigorating as a study of the great themes which concern our eternal life. Let the youth seek to grasp these God-given truths, and their minds will expand and grow strong in the effort. It will bring every student who is a doer of the word into a broader field of thought, and secure for him a wealth of knowledge that is imperishable.

COL 42.2

The education to be secured by searching the Scriptures is an experimental knowledge of the plan of salvation. Such an education will restore the image of God in the soul. It will strengthen and fortify the mind against temptation, and fit the learner to become a co-worker with Christ in His mission of mercy to the world. It will make him a member of the heavenly family; and prepare him to share the inheritance of the saints in light.

COL 43.1

But the teacher of sacred truth can impart only that which he himself knows by experience. “The sower sowed his seed.” Christ taught the truth because He was the truth. His own thought, His character, His life-experience, were embodied in His teaching. So with His servants: those who would teach the word are to make it their own by a personal experience. They must know what it is to have Christ made unto them wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. In presenting the word of God to others, they are not to make it a suppose-so or a may-be. They should declare with the apostle Peter, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of His majesty.” 2 Peter 1:16. Every minister of Christ and every teacher should be able to say with the beloved John, “The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.” 1 John 1:2.

COL 43.2

That with which the parable of the sower chiefly deals is the effect produced on the growth of the seed by the soil into which it is cast. By this parable Christ was virtually saying to His hearers, It is not safe for you to stand as critics of My work, or to indulge disappointment because it does not meet your ideas. The question of greatest importance to you is, How do you treat My message? Upon your reception or rejection of it your eternal destiny depends.

COL 44.1

Explaining the seed that fell by the wayside, He said, “When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the wayside.”

COL 44.3

As the birds are ready to catch up the seed from the wayside, so Satan is ready to catch away the seeds of divine truth from the soul. He fears that the word of God may awaken the careless, and take effect upon the hardened heart. Satan and his angels are in the assemblies where the gospel is preached. While angels of heaven endeavor to impress hearts with the word of God, the enemy is on the alert to make the word of no effect. With an earnestness equaled only by his malice, he tries to thwart the work of the Spirit of God. While Christ is drawing the soul by His love, Satan tries to turn away the attention of the one who is moved to seek the Saviour. He engages the mind with worldly schemes. He excites criticism, or insinuates doubt and unbelief. The speaker’s choice of language or his manner may not please the hearers, and they dwell upon these defects. Thus the truth they need, and which God has graciously sent them, makes no lasting impression.

COL 45.1

Satan has many helpers. Many who profess to be Christians are aiding the tempter to catch away the seeds of truth from other hearts. Many who listen to the preaching of the word of God make it the subject of criticism at home. They sit in judgment on the sermon as they would on the words of a lecturer or a political speaker. The message that should be regarded as the word of the Lord to them is dwelt upon with trifling or sarcastic comment. The minister’s character, motives, and actions, and the conduct of fellow members of the church, are freely discussed. Severe judgment is pronounced, gossip or slander repeated, and this in the hearing of the unconverted. Often these things are spoken by parents in the hearing of their own children. Thus are destroyed respect for God’s messengers, and reverence for their message. And many are taught to regard lightly God’s word itself.

COL 46.1

Thus in the homes of professed Christians many youth are educated to be infidels. And the parents question why their children are so little interested in the gospel, and so ready to doubt the truth of the Bible. They wonder that it is so difficult to reach them with moral and religious influences. They do not see that their own example has hardened the hearts of their children. The good seed finds no place to take root, and Satan catches it away.

COL 46.2

“He that receiveth the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.”

COL 46.3

The seed sown upon stony ground finds little depth of soil. The plant springs up quickly, but the root cannot penetrate the rock to find nutriment to sustain its growth, and it soon perishes. Many who make a profession of religion are stony-ground hearers. Like the rock underlying the layer of earth, the selfishness of the natural heart underlies the soil of their good desires and aspirations. The love of self is not subdued. They have not seen the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and the heart has not been humbled under a sense of its guilt. This class may be easily convinced, and appear to be bright converts, but they have only a superficial religion.

COL 47.1

The roots of the plant strike down deep into the soil, and hidden from sight nourish the life of the plant. So with the Christian; it is by the invisible union of the soul with Christ, through faith, that the spiritual life is nourished. But the stony-ground hearers depend upon self instead of Christ. They trust in their good works and good impulses, and are strong in their own righteousness. They are not strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Such a one “hath not root in himself”; for he is not connected with Christ.

COL 48.1

There are very many who claim to serve God, but who have no experimental knowledge of Him. Their desire to do His will is based upon their own inclination, not upon the deep conviction of the Holy Spirit. Their conduct is not brought into harmony with the law of God. They profess to accept Christ as their Saviour, but they do not believe that He will give them power to overcome their sins. They have not a personal relation with a living Saviour, and their characters reveal defects both hereditary and cultivated.

COL 48.2

It is one thing to assent in a general way to the agency of the Holy Spirit, and another thing to accept His work as a reprover calling to repentance. Many feel a sense of estrangement from God, a realization of their bondage to self and sin; they make efforts for reform; but they do not crucify self. They do not give themselves entirely into the hands of Christ, seeking for divine power to do His will. They are not willing to be molded after the divine similitude. In a general way they acknowledge their imperfections, but they do not give up their particular sins. With each wrong act the old selfish nature is gaining strength.

COL 48.4

True holiness is wholeness in the service of God. This is the condition of true Christian living. Christ asks for an unreserved consecration, for undivided service. He demands the heart, the mind, the soul, the strength. Self is not to be cherished. He who lives to himself is not a Christian.

COL 49.1

Love must be the principle of action. Love is the underlying principle of God’s government in heaven and earth, and it must be the foundation of the Christian’s character. This alone can make and keep him steadfast. This alone can enable him to withstand trial and temptation.

COL 49.2

And love will be revealed in sacrifice. The plan of redemption was laid in sacrifice—a sacrifice so broad and deep and high that it is immeasurable. Christ gave all for us, and those who receive Christ will be ready to sacrifice all for the sake of their Redeemer. The thought of His honor and glory will come before anything else.

COL 49.3

If we love Jesus, we shall love to live for Him, to present our thank offerings to Him, to labor for Him. The very labor will be light. For His sake we shall covet pain and toil and sacrifice. We shall sympathize with His longing for the salvation of men. We shall feel the same tender craving for souls that He has felt.

COL 50.1

This is the religion of Christ. Anything short of it is a deception. No mere theory of truth or profession of discipleship will save any soul. We do not belong to Christ unless we are His wholly. It is by halfheartedness in the Christian life that men become feeble in purpose and changeable in desire. The effort to serve both self and Christ makes one a stony-ground hearer, and he will not endure when the test comes upon him.

COL 50.2

“He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.”

COL 50.3

The gospel seed often falls among thorns and noxious weeds; and if there is not a moral transformation in the human heart, if old habits and practices and the former life of sin are not left behind, if the attributes of Satan are not expelled from the soul, the wheat crop will be choked. The thorns will come to be the crop, and will kill out the wheat.

COL 50.4

Grace can thrive only in the heart that is being constantly prepared for the precious seeds of truth. The thorns of sin will grow in any soil; they need no cultivation; but grace must be carefully cultivated. The briers and thorns are always ready to spring up, and the work of purification must advance continually. If the heart is not kept under the control of God, if the Holy Spirit does not work unceasingly to refine and ennoble the character, the old habits will reveal themselves in the life. Men may profess to believe the gospel; but unless they are sanctified by the gospel their profession is of no avail. If they do not gain the victory over sin, then sin is gaining the victory over them. The thorns that have been cut off but not uprooted grow apace, until the soul is overspread with them.

COL 51.1

Christ specified the things that are dangerous to the soul. As recorded by Mark He mentions the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things. Luke specifies the cares, riches, and pleasures of this life. These are what choke the word, the growing spiritual seed. The soul ceases to draw nourishment from Christ, and spirituality dies out of the heart.

COL 51.2

“The cares of this world.” No class is free from the temptation to worldly care. To the poor, toil and deprivation and the fear of want bring perplexities and burdens. To the rich come fear of loss and a multitude of anxious cares. Many of Christ’s followers forget the lesson He has bidden us learn from the flowers of the field. They do not trust to His constant care. Christ cannot carry their burden, because they do not cast it upon Him. Therefore the cares of life, which should drive them to the Saviour for help and comfort, separate them from Him.

COL 51.3

Many who might be fruitful in God’s service become bent on acquiring wealth. Their whole energy is absorbed in business enterprises, and they feel obliged to neglect things of a spiritual nature. Thus they separate themselves from God. We are enjoined in the Scriptures to be “not slothful in business.” Romans 12:11. We are to labor that we may impart to him who needs. Christians must work, they must engage in business, and they can do this without committing sin. But many become so absorbed in business that they have no time for prayer, no time for the study of the Bible, no time to seek and serve God. At times the longings of the soul go out for holiness and heaven; but there is no time to turn aside from the din of the world to listen to the majestic and authoritative utterances of the Spirit of God. The things of eternity are made subordinate, the things of the world supreme. It is impossible for the seed of the word to bring forth fruit; for the life of the soul is given to nourish the thorns of worldliness.

COL 52.1

And many who are working with a very different purpose, fall into a like error. They are working for others’ good; their duties are pressing, their responsibilities are many, and they allow their labor to crowd out devotion. Communion with God through prayer and a study of His word is neglected. They forget that Christ has said, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5. They walk apart from Christ, their life is not pervaded by His grace, and the characteristics of self are revealed. Their service is marred by desire for supremacy, and the harsh, unlovely traits of the unsubdued heart. Here is one of the chief secrets of failure in Christian work. This is why its results are often so meager.

COL 52.2

“The deceitfulness of riches.” The love of riches has an infatuating, deceptive power. Too often those who possess worldly treasure forget that it is God who gives them power to get wealth. They say, “My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth.” Deuteronomy 8:17. Their riches, instead of awakening gratitude to God, lead to the exaltation of self. They lose the sense of their dependence upon God and their obligation to their fellow men. Instead of regarding wealth as a talent to be employed for the glory of God and the uplifting of humanity, they look upon it as a means of serving themselves. Instead of developing in man the attributes of God, riches thus used are developing in him the attributes of Satan. The seed of the word is choked with thorns.

COL 53.1

“And pleasures of this life.” There is danger in amusement that is sought merely for self-gratification. All habits of indulgence that weaken the physical powers, that becloud the mind, or that benumb the spiritual perceptions, are “fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” 1 Peter 2:11.

COL 53.2

“And the lusts of other things.” These are not necessarily things sinful in themselves, but something that is made first instead of the kingdom of God. Whatever attracts the mind from God, whatever draws the affections away from Christ, is an enemy to the soul.

*****

COL 53.3

When the mind is youthful and vigorous and susceptible of rapid development, there is great temptation to be ambitious for self, to serve self. If worldly schemes are successful, there is an inclination to continue in a line that deadens conscience, and prevents a correct estimate as to what constitutes real excellence of character. When circumstances favor this development, growth will be seen in a direction prohibited by the word of God.

COL 53.4

In this formative period of their children’s life, the responsibility of parents is very great. It should be their study to surround the youth with right influences, influences that will give them correct views of life and its true success. Instead of this, how many parents make it their first object to secure for their children worldly prosperity. All their associations are chosen with reference to this object. Many parents make their home in some large city, and introduce their children into fashionable society. They surround them with influences that encourage worldliness and pride. In this atmosphere the mind and soul are dwarfed. The high and noble aims of life are lost sight of. The privilege of being sons of God, heirs of eternity, is bartered for worldly gain.

COL 54.1

Many parents seek to promote the happiness of their children by gratifying their love of amusement. They allow them to engage in sports, and to attend parties of pleasure, and provide them with money to use freely in display and self-gratification. The more the desire for pleasure is indulged, the stronger it becomes. The interest of these youth is more and more absorbed in amusement, until they come to look upon it as the great object of life. They form habits of idleness and self-indulgence that make it almost impossible for them ever to become steadfast Christians.

COL 54.2

Even the church, which should be the pillar and ground of the truth, is found encouraging the selfish love of pleasure. When money is to be raised for religious purposes, to what means do many churches resort? To bazaars, suppers, fancy fairs, even to lotteries, and like devices. Often the place set apart for God’s worship is desecrated by feasting and drinking, buying, selling, and merrymaking. Respect for the house of God and reverence for His worship are lessened in the minds of the youth. The barriers of self-restraint are weakened. Selfishness, appetite, the love of display, are appealed to, and they strengthen as they are indulged.

COL 54.3

The pursuit of pleasure and amusement centers in the cities. Many parents who choose a city home for their children, thinking to give them greater advantages, meet with disappointment, and too late repent their terrible mistake. The cities of today are fast becoming like Sodom and Gomorrah. The many holidays encourage idleness. The exciting sports—theatergoing, horse racing, gambling, liquor-drinking, and reveling—stimulate every passion to intense activity. The youth are swept away by the popular current. Those who learn to love amusement for its own sake open the door to a flood of temptations. They give themselves up to social gaiety and thoughtless mirth, and their intercourse with pleasure lovers has an intoxicating effect upon the mind. They are led on from one form of dissipation to another, until they lose both the desire and the capacity for a life of usefulness. Their religious aspirations are chilled; their spiritual life is darkened. All the nobler faculties of the soul, all that link man with the spiritual world, are debased.

COL 55.1

It is true that some may see their folly and repent. God may pardon them. But they have wounded their own souls, and brought upon themselves a lifelong peril. The power of discernment, which ought ever to be kept keen and sensitive to distinguish between right and wrong, is in a great measure destroyed. They are not quick to recognize the guiding voice of the Holy Spirit, or to discern the devices of Satan. Too often in time of danger they fall under temptation, and are led away from God. The end of their pleasure-loving life is ruin for this world and for the world to come.

COL 55.2

Cares, riches, pleasures, all are used by Satan in playing the game of life for the human soul. The warning is given, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” 1 John 2:15, 16. He who reads the hearts of men as an open book says, “Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness and cares of this life.” Luke 21:34. And the apostle Paul by the Holy Spirit writes, “They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil; which, while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” 1 Timothy 6:9, 10.

COL 56.1

Throughout the parable of the sower, Christ represents the different results of the sowing as depending upon the soil. In every case the sower and the seed are the same. Thus He teaches that if the word of God fails of accomplishing its work in our hearts and lives, the reason is to be found in ourselves. But the result is not beyond our control. True, we cannot change ourselves; but the power of choice is ours, and it rests with us to determine what we will become. The wayside, the stony-ground, the thorny-ground hearers need not remain such. The Spirit of God is ever seeking to break the spell of infatuation that holds men absorbed in worldly things, and to awaken a desire for the imperishable treasure. It is by resisting the Spirit that men become inattentive to or neglectful of God’s word. They are themselves responsible for the hardness of heart that prevents the good seed from taking root, and for the evil growths that check its development.

COL 56.2

The garden of the heart must be cultivated. The soil must be broken up by deep repentance for sin. Poisonous, Satanic plants must be uprooted. The soil once overgrown by thorns can be reclaimed only by diligent labor. So the evil tendencies of the natural heart can be overcome only by earnest effort in the name and strength of Jesus. The Lord bids us by His prophet, “Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns.” “Sow to yourselves in righteousness; reap in mercy.” Jeremiah 4:3; Hosea 10:12. This work He desires to accomplish for us, and He asks us to co-operate with Him.

COL 57.1

The sowers of the seed have a work to do in preparing hearts to receive the gospel. In the ministry of the word there is too much sermonizing, and too little of real heart-to-heart work. There is need of personal labor for the souls of the lost. In Christlike sympathy we should come close to men individually, and seek to awaken their interest in the great things of eternal life. Their hearts may be as hard as the beaten highway, and apparently it may be a useless effort to present the Saviour to them; but while logic may fail to move, and argument be powerless to convince, the love of Christ, revealed in personal ministry, may soften the stony heart, so that the seed of truth can take root.

COL 57.2

So the sowers have something to do that the seed may not be choked with thorns or perish because of shallowness of soil. At the very outset of the Christian life every believer should be taught its foundation principles. He should be taught that he is not merely to be saved by Christ’s sacrifice, but that he is to make the life of Christ his life and the character of Christ his character. Let all be taught that they are to bear burdens and to deny natural inclination. Let them learn the blessedness of working for Christ, following Him in self-denial, and enduring hardness as good soldiers. Let them learn to trust His love and to cast on Him their cares. Let them taste the joy of winning souls for Him. In their love and interest for the lost, they will lose sight of self. The pleasures of the world will lose their power to attract and its burdens to dishearten. The plowshare of truth will do its work. It will break up the fallow ground. It will not merely cut off the tops of the thorns, but will take them out by the roots.

COL 58.1

The sower is not always to meet with disappointment. Of the seed that fell into good ground the Saviour said, This “is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” “That on the good ground are they, which, in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.”

COL 58.2

The “honest and good heart” of which the parable speaks, is not a heart without sin; for the gospel is to be preached to the lost. Christ said, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Mark 2:17. He has an honest heart who yields to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. He confesses his guilt, and feels his need of the mercy and love of God. He has a sincere desire to know the truth, that he may obey it. The good heart is a believing heart, one that has faith in the word of God. Without faith it is impossible to receive the word. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6.

COL 59.1

This “is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it.” The Pharisees of Christ’s day closed their eyes lest they should see, and their ears lest they should hear; therefore the truth could not reach their hearts. They were to suffer retribution for their willful ignorance and self-imposed blindness. But Christ taught His disciples that they were to open their minds to instruction, and be ready to believe. He pronounced a blessing upon them because they saw and heard with eyes and ears that believed.

COL 59.2

The good-ground hearer receives the word “not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13. Only he who receives the Scriptures as the voice of God speaking to himself is a true learner. He trembles at the word; for to him it is a living reality. He opens his understanding and his heart to receive it. Such hearers were Cornelius and his friends, who said to the apostle Peter, “Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.” Acts 10:33.

COL 59.3

A knowledge of the truth depends not so much upon strength of intellect as upon pureness of purpose, the simplicity of an earnest, dependent faith. To those who in humility of heart seek for divine guidance, angels of God draw near. The Holy Spirit is given to open to them the rich treasures of the truth.

COL 59.4

The good-ground hearers, having heard the word, keep it. Satan with all his agencies of evil is not able to catch it away.

COL 59.5

Merely to hear or to read the word is not enough. He who desires to be profited by the Scriptures must meditate upon the truth that has been presented to him. By earnest attention and prayerful thought he must learn the meaning of the words of truth, and drink deep of the spirit of the holy oracles.

COL 60.1

God bids us fill the mind with great thoughts, pure thoughts. He desires us to meditate upon His love and mercy, to study His wonderful work in the great plan of redemption. Then clearer and still clearer will be our perception of truth, higher, holier, our desire for purity of heart and clearness of thought. The soul dwelling in the pure atmosphere of holy thought will be transformed by communion with God through the study of Scriptures.

COL 60.2

“And bring forth fruit.” Those who, having heard the word, keep it, will bring forth fruit in obedience. The word of God, received into the soul, will be manifest in good works. Its results will be seen in a Christlike character and life. Christ said of Himself, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God; yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. “I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.” John 5:30. And the Scripture says, “He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” 1 John 2:6.

COL 60.3

The word of God often comes in collision with man’s hereditary and cultivated traits of character and his habits of life. But the good-ground hearer, in receiving the word, accepts all its conditions and requirements. His habits, customs, and practices are brought into submission to God’s word. In his view the commands of finite, erring man sink into insignificance beside the word of the infinite God. With the whole heart, with undivided purpose, he is seeking the life eternal, and at the cost of loss, persecution, or death itself, he will obey the truth.

COL 60.4

And he brings forth fruit “with patience.” None who receive God’s word are exempt from difficulty and trial; but when affliction comes, the true Christian does not become restless, distrustful, or despondent. Though we can not see the definite outcome of affairs, or discern the purpose of God’s providences, we are not to cast away our confidence. Remembering the tender mercies of the Lord, we should cast our care upon Him, and with patience wait for His salvation.

COL 61.1

Through conflict the spiritual life is strengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith, meekness, and love often matures best amid storm clouds and darkness.

COL 61.2

“The husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.” James 5:7. So the Christian is to wait with patience for the fruition in his life of the word of God. Often when we pray for the graces of the Spirit, God works to answer our prayers by placing us in circumstances to develop these fruits; but we do not understand His purpose, and wonder, and are dismayed. Yet none can develop these graces except through the process of growth and fruit bearing. Our part is to receive God’s word and to hold it fast, yielding ourselves fully to its control, and its purpose in us will be accomplished.

COL 61.3

“If a man love Me,” Christ said, “he will keep My words; and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14:23. The spell of a stronger, a perfect mind will be over us; for we have a living connection with the source of all-enduring strength. In our divine life we shall be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. We shall no longer live the common life of selfishness, but Christ will live in us. His character will be reproduced in our nature. Thus shall we bring forth the fruits of the Holy Spirit—“some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.”

Christ’s Object Lessons

The Soil—by the Wayside

COL 44.2

The seed sown by the wayside represents the word of God as it falls upon the heart of an inattentive hearer. Like the hard-beaten path, trodden down by the feet of men and beasts, is the heart that becomes a highway for the world’s traffic, its pleasures and sins. Absorbed in selfish aims and sinful indulgences, the soul is “hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Hebrews 3:13. The spiritual faculties are paralyzed. Men hear the word, but understand it not. They do not discern that it applies to themselves. They do not realize their need or their danger. They do not perceive the love of Christ, and they pass by the message of His grace as something that does not concern them.

Christ’s Object Lessons

In Stony Places

COL 46.4

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

COL 47.2

The hot summer sun, that strengthens and ripens the hardy grain, destroys that which has no depth of root. So he who “hath not root in himself,” “dureth for a while”; but “when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.” Many receive the gospel as a way of escape from suffering, rather than as a deliverance from sin. They rejoice for a season, for they think that religion will free them from difficulty and trial. While life moves smoothly with them, they may appear to be consistent Christians. But they faint beneath the fiery test of temptation. They cannot bear reproach for Christ’s sake. When the word of God points out some cherished sin, or requires self-denial or sacrifice, they are offended. It would cost them too much effort to make a radical change in their life. They look at the present inconvenience and trial, and forget the eternal realities. Like the disciples who left Jesus, they are ready to say, “This is an hard saying; who can hear it?” John 6:60.

COL 48.3

The only hope for these souls is to realize in themselves the truth of Christ’s words to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again.” “Except a man be born from above, he can not see the kingdom of God.” John 3:7, 3, margin.

From the Heart

Wayside Hearers, April 5

FH 107.1

A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside. Luke 8:5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 86, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, par. 9

The teacher of sacred truth can impart that only which he knows by experience. “The sower sowed his seed.” [Luke 8:5.] Christ taught the truth because He was the truth. His own thought, His character, His life experience were embodied in His teaching. So with His servants: those who would teach the Word are to make it their own by a personal experience. They must know what it means to have Christ made unto them wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. In presenting the Word of God to others, they are not to make it a suppose-so or a may-be. They should declare with the apostle Peter, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of His majesty.” [2 Peter 1:16.] Every minister of Christ should be able to say with the beloved John, “The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.” [1 John 1:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 13, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 20

In recording the parable of the sower, Luke says, “And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.” [Luke 8:7.] Matthew speaks more definitely: “He also that received seed among thorns is he that heareth the word, and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.” [Matthew 13:22.]

17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 22

“And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundred-fold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?” [Luke 8:8, 9.]

17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 23

Then Christ gave the explanation of the parable. “The parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the wayside are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a time believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.” [Verses 11-15.]

17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 24

“Take heed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.” [Verse 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 106, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 106, 1898, par. 4

The Lord is speaking to the church in Rockhampton. O that they would be doers of His Word. My brethren and sisters, I call upon you in the name of the Lord to hear the Word of God and to practice it. Of the Israelites the apostle says, “The word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” [Hebrews 4:2.] This opens before us the secret of this matter, the reason why there is so little accomplished by the many discourses that are preached. The words may be indited by the Holy Spirit, but the result lies with the ones who hear. The oft-repeated charge of the Lord in His word is, “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” [Matthew 11:15; Mark 4:9; Luke 8:8; 14:35.]

13LtMs, Lt 106, 1898, par. 18

Christ met one poor soul who had spent all her living in order that she might be cured of a physical malady. The statement is that she had spent all she had on many physicians, and was nothing better, but rather made worse. But one touch of Christ by faith took away the infirmity of long years. This suffering woman came behind Christ, and touched His garment by faith in the person whom the garment covered, and instantly she was made whole. “Who touched me?” said Christ. Peter was astonished. He answered, “Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?” [Luke 8:45; Mark 5:31.]

13LtMs, Lt 106, 1898, par. 19

Christ desired to give a lesson which all present would never forget. He would show the difference between the touch of living faith and a casual touch. He said, “Somebody hath touched me; for I perceive that virtue hath gone out of me.” When the woman saw that she could not be hid, she came forward trembling, and throwing herself at his feet, told her pitiful story. Christ comforted her. “Daughter,” he said, “thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace and be whole of thy plague.” [Luke 8:46-48.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 114, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 114, 1898, par. 9

Christ specified the ones who should receive and believe on Him. “To you,” He said, speaking to His disciples, “It is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.” [Luke 8:10.] These they were to proclaim to the world, for thus He had commanded them. This is the first and great business to be carried on in our world. “What ye hear in the ear,” He said on one occasion, “that preach ye upon the house tops,” for there is nothing in the knowledge of truth and righteousness that is to be regarded as a mystery. [Matthew 10:27.] The door is thrown wide open for all who believe. “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.” [John 14:13, 14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 223, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 223, 1905, par. 4

In order that our institutions shall teach right lessons, there must be connected with them men of such simplicity that they are willing to learn of the great Teacher. “To you it is given,” Christ said, to the people who keep My commandments and do those things that I have presented in My Word, “to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.” [Luke 8:10.]

Education

Sowing in Faith

Ed 104.5

“The seed is the word of God.” “As the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth.” Luke 8:11; Isaiah 61:11. As in the natural, so in the spiritual sowing; the power that alone can produce life is from God.

Education

Chapter 30—Faith and Prayer

Ed 253.3

How to exercise faith should be made very plain. To every promise of God there are conditions. If we are willing to do His will, all His strength is ours. Whatever gift He promises, is in the promise itself. “The seed is the word of God.” Luke 8:11. As surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely is the gift of God in His promise. If we receive the promise, we have the gift.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 58—Faith

2MCP 533.1

Teach Faith—How to exercise faith should be made very plain. To every promise of God there are conditions. If we are willing to do His will, all His strength is ours. Whatever gift He promises is in the promise itself. “The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11). As surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely is the gift of God in His promise. If we receive the promise, we have the gift.—Education, 253 (1903).

Prayer

Chapter 32—Faith and Prayer

Pr 314.3

How to exercise faith should be made very plain. To every promise of God there are conditions. If we are willing to do His will, all His strength is ours. Whatever gift He promises, is in the promise itself. “The seed is the word of God.” Luke 8:11. As surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely is the gift of God in His promise. If we receive the promise, we have the gift.

Reflecting Christ

Faith Is a Shield for Every Soul, April 22

RC 126.4

How to exercise faith should be made very plain. To every promise of God there are conditions. If we are willing to do His will, all His strength is ours. Whatever gift He promises is in the promise itself. “The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11). As surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely is the gift of God in His promise. If we receive the promise, we have the gift.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Faith That Works, July 6

YRP 196.4

How to exercise faith should be made very plain. To every promise of God there are conditions. If we are willing to do His will, all His strength is ours. Whatever gift He promises is in the promise itself. “The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11). As surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely is the gift of God in His promise. If we receive the promise, we have the gift.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 73, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 25

“The seed is the word of God.” “He that receiveth the seed into good ground is he that heareth the word and understandeth it, which also beareth fruit (even the fruit of the lips, in appropriate words to the glory of God); and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty.” [Luke 8:11; Matthew 13:23.] Christ was fruitful, because He had that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 30, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 30, 1898, par. 20

In his human wisdom, man may employ arguments that are wholly without truth, but God declares, “The world by wisdom knew not God.” “The seed is the Word.” [1 Corinthians 1:21; Luke 8:11.] We are to take our position in the school of Christ as humble learners. He speaks as one having authority. He affirms that all that is written in the law and the prophets is the Word of the living God. It is the inspiration of One infallible, the divine communication to holy men of old who speak as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1100—Warnings Against Worldliness, Rejecting Light, and Unconverted Leaders; An Appeal to Exalt Christ and Proclaim the Message of Righteousness by Faith

14MR 115.1

These men are saying in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth His coming,” and the thought is expressed not only in action but in words. “Be not deceived in regard to Christ’s speedy appearing,” these false guides are saying. “Peace and safety. The time is not yet. All things continue as they were from the beginning.” They are denying the truth in their spirit, in their works, and in their words. They come under the denunciation of Christ: “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth” [Matthew 24:48-51]. See also Luke 8:12, 13; Matthew 11:20-23.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Warnings Against Worldliness, Rejecting Light, and Unconverted Leaders; An Appeal to Exalt Christ and Proclaim the Message of Righteousness by Faith

1888 1323.1

These men are saying in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth His coming,” and the thought is expressed not only in action but in words. “Be not deceived in regard to Christ’s speedy appearing,” these false guides are saying. “Peace and safety. The time is not yet. All things continue as they were from the beginning.” They are denying the truth in their spirit, in their works, and in their words. They come under the denunciation of Christ: “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My Lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the Lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth” [Matthew 24:48-51]. See also Luke 8:12, 13; Matthew 11:20-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 57, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 57, 1895, par. 4

These men are saying in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth his coming;” and the thought is not only expressed in action but in words. “Be not deceived in regard to Christ’s speedy appearing,” these false guides are saying. “Peace and safety. The time is not yet. All things continue as they were from the beginning.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; 2 Peter 3:4.] They are denying the truth in their spirit, in their works, and in their words. They come under the denunciation of Christ: “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth His coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 24:48-51.] See also Luke 8:12, 13; Matthew 11:23-25.

From the Heart

Opposition May Benefit Us, April 9

FH 111.1

But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience. Luke 8:15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 85, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 85, 1894, par. 17

It means much to receive the good seed. In Luke we read, “That on the good ground are they which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.” [Luke 8:15.] An honest heart is a heart which, when the light shines into it, acknowledges that sin is the transgression of the law. “Take heed how ye hear,” said the great Teacher. [Verse 18.] What will it avail to spend the life deceiving one’s self and revealing this deception in the character? When truth is received into the heart, the tares growing there are uprooted. The appeals of God to the conscience are no longer turned aside as of no consequence.

This Day With God

All Truth Radiates From Christ, November 11

TDG 324.1

No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. Luke 8:16.

Maranatha

Prove All Things, May 27

Mar 155.4

“Take heed therefore how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ.... Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).... This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? 42Selected Messages 2:75-79.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 109, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 4

You have been estranged from God; yet He looks on you with pitying tenderness, and His declaration to you is, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land. But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” [Isaiah 1:19, 20.] Your heart has not been right with God, and He is saying to you, as He said to Elijah, “What doest thou here, Philip?” [1 Kings 19:9.] You have wasted much time, and lost many opportunities, but you are still in that place where you can hear God speaking to you. “Take heed how ye hear.” [Luke 8:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 70, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 70, 1897, par. 29

Satan will put everything possible in operation to divert the mind and occupy it with erring thoughts. The truths for these times claim our particular attention. Said Christ, “Take heed to yourselves how you hear.” [Luke 8:18.] You cannot afford to be dull scholars upon the greatest and most important truths that have ever been presented to our understanding. The heart must be diligently guarded. When these precious opportunities close, you will be exposed to temptations from which you are now very largely excluded. Therefore a surface work in searching the Scriptures will not be of value to you. You will have nothing that you will be able to communicate.

12LtMs, Ms 70, 1897, par. 37

As line upon line and precept upon precept of the divine Word is opened before you, “take heed how you hear.” [Luke 8:18.] If the principles of our faith are accepted, there will be new impressions made; new duties will be presented before us, new lines of work will be seen in our practice. If we give to the searching of the Scriptures a divided heart, we shall receive superficial impressions which will quickly pass away. If we listen to the Word without giving it entrance to the heart, we shall be placed among the forgetful hearers.

12LtMs, Ms 70, 1897, par. 41

“Take heed how you hear.” [Luke 8:18.] The messages of God’s Word in appeals through His servants will not return to Him void. It is to each a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. His Word will save or ruin us. After hearing the Word we are no longer in the same position before God that we were before the light came. If we receive and act upon the light given, we will understand the Scripture, “I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” [Revelation 3:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 28, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 28, 1897, par. 30

O, if we could only realize that in every congregation there may be souls who are being called upon for the last time <by counsel and reproof> to repent; who, like the Jewish nation, have advanced step by step almost imperceptibly in resistance of the Spirit of God, until spiritual blindness has taken the place of the light they once enjoyed. Under a spirit of unbelief, envy, and criticism, the evidences they have had are no longer evidence, but a matter of questioning and doubt. Trust is misunderstood, and perverted to mean error. Evidence might be piled upon evidence, but Satan is close at their side that the word spoken shall be misapplied and perverted, and become a matter of suspicion and distrust. How careful then should every person be that they shall not do despite to the spirit of grace. <“Take heed how ye hear.” [Luke 8:18.] Take heed how ye read.>

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 148a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 148a, 1897, par. 6

This morning at six o’clock a large audience assembled for prayer and conference meeting. Brother Starr led the meeting and then after a season of prayer Brother Robert Hare, who has been at work in Western Australia, spoke about one half hour, and he made some confession, after his remarks in regard to “Take heed how ye hear.” [Luke 8:18.] He was deeply affected. The quivering lip and the tearful utterance gave impression to his words. He spoke of his labors in Sydney and suburbs about five years ago. Impressions were received by him and Brother Steed that where one or two ministers obtained an interest they were the only ones who should be enlisted in this meeting. Elders Daniells and White came into the meeting, but were not invited to act a part. He wished to say that it was not the right course for them to pursue. They should have invited these brethren to act a part with them, and the work would have had a very different showing had they done this. There was much tenderness in the meeting. I had a few words to say, and the meeting closed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 103, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, par. 10

Man is to hear the Word of God, filled with a hungering desire to hear in faith and profit by the hearing. He is to live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] We are to fear and tremble lest we make a wrong use of the words of the gospel, the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. “Take heed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given: and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away, even that which he seemeth to have.” [Luke 8:18.]

Our Father Cares

Prove All Things, December 10

OFC 356.4

“Take heed therefore how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ.... Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).... This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? 10Maranatha, 155.

Selected Messages Book 2

A Message to J. M. Garmire

2SM 79.2

“Take heed, therefore, how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ. We are to hear for the sake of learning the truth, that we may walk in it. And again: “Take heed what ye hear” (Mark 4:24). Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21), “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it?—Letter 12, 1890.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 11, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 6

Someone not so mindful as he should have been of Christ’s words, “Take heed how ye hear” [Luke 8:18], allowed his unsanctified ears to hear wrong, his perverted senses to imagine wrong, and his evil tongue to report wrong. Many a man will not come openly to talk with the one he thinks in error, but will go to others, and under the mask of friendship and sympathy for the erring, he will cast reflections. Sometimes he openly agrees with the one whom he covertly seeks to injure. Suppositions are stated as facts, without giving the person charged with wrong a clear, definite statement of his supposed errors and without giving him a chance to answer the charges. This is all contrary to the teaching of Christ. It is the subtle way in which Satan always works.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 12, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 75

“Take heed, therefore, how ye hear,” is an admonition of Christ. [Luke 8:18.] We are to hear for the sake of learning the truth, that we may walk in it. And again: “Take heed what ye hear.” [Mark 4:24.] Examine closely, “prove all things,” “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1.] This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? A man may hear and acknowledge the whole truth, and yet know nothing of personal piety and true experimental religion. He may explain the way of salvation to others, and yet himself be a castaway.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 63, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 63, 1893, par. 4

While we are in probationary time, we shall see plenty of defects wherever we go. But you need not become confused, for you are to listen to the words of Christ, “Take heed how you hear.” [Luke 8:18.] Whenever wrongs were developed before your eyes, did you not have the plain, decided testimony of truth in the lessons of Christ to mark out your path for you? If you had daily looked unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith, the trials you encountered would have been found to be of the highest advantage to you, for through them you would have been educated in patience and long-suffering.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 63a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 63a, 1893, par. 5

If you did receive much good that would be of great benefit to you in this life and in the future immortal life, if you properly heeded the words of Christ, “Take heed how you hear,” you need not become confused. [Luke 8:18.] Whenever there were wrongs developed before your eyes, were there not falling upon your ears the plain, decided, testimony of the truth in the lessons of Jesus Christ, and were there not in the very things that were transpiring before you an educating school of the highest advantage to you, if you were daily looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 106, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 106, 1894, par. 4

Christ has warned us against those who advocate false theories. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets.” [Matthew 7:15.] Shall we heed the warning or pass on and become careless, or accept new ideas because we desire to be original? If we accept falsehood, we shall be led on into ruinous practices. Jesus has said “Take heed how ye hear.” [Luke 8:18.] In investigating doctrines, we want to know what is truth, to shun falsehood and error. We are to take no man’s say so , as though it were the voice of God, simply because we have loved the man, and believed that God has led him in the past.

From the Heart

An Example of Love, August 8

FH 232.1

My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it. Luke 8:21.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 35—“Peace, Be Still”

DA 333.1

It had been an eventful day in the life of Jesus. Beside the Sea of Galilee He had spoken His first parables, by familiar illustrations again explaining to the people the nature of His kingdom and the manner in which it was to be established. He had likened His own work to that of the sower; the development of His kingdom to the growth of the mustard seed and the effect of leaven in the measure of meal. The great final separation of the righteous and the wicked He had pictured in the parables of the wheat and tares and the fishing net. The exceeding preciousness of the truths He taught had been illustrated by the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price, while in the parable of the householder He taught His disciples how they were to labor as His representatives.

DA 333.2

All day He had been teaching and healing; and as evening came on the crowds still pressed upon Him. Day after day He had ministered to them, scarcely pausing for food or rest. The malicious criticism and misrepresentation with which the Pharisees constantly pursued Him made His labors much more severe and harassing; and now the close of the day found Him so utterly wearied that He determined to seek retirement in some solitary place across the lake.

DA 333.3

The eastern shore of Gennesaret was not uninhabited, for there were towns here and there beside the lake; yet it was a desolate region when compared with the western side. It contained a population more heathen than Jewish, and had little communication with Galilee. Thus it offered Jesus the seclusion He sought, and He now bade His disciples accompany Him thither.

DA 334.1

After He had dismissed the multitude, they took Him, even “as He was,” into the boat, and hastily set off. But they were not to depart alone. There were other fishing boats lying near the shore, and these were quickly crowded with people who followed Jesus, eager still to see and hear Him.

DA 334.2

The Saviour was at last relieved from the pressure of the multitude, and, overcome with weariness and hunger, He lay down in the stern of the boat, and soon fell asleep. The evening had been calm and pleasant, and quiet rested upon the lake; but suddenly darkness overspread the sky, the wind swept wildly down the mountain gorges along the eastern shore, and a fierce tempest burst upon the lake.

DA 334.3

The sun had set, and the blackness of night settled down upon the stormy sea. The waves, lashed into fury by the howling winds, dashed fiercely over the disciples’ boat, and threatened to engulf it. Those hardy fishermen had spent their lives upon the lake, and had guided their craft safely through many a storm; but now their strength and skill availed nothing. They were helpless in the grasp of the tempest, and hope failed them as they saw that their boat was filling.

DA 334.4

Absorbed in their efforts to save themselves, they had forgotten that Jesus was on board. Now, seeing their labor vain and only death before them, they remembered at whose command they had set out to cross the sea. In Jesus was their only hope. In their helplessness and despair they cried, “Master, Master!” But the dense darkness hid Him from their sight. Their voices were drowned by the roaring of the tempest, and there was no reply. Doubt and fear assailed them. Had Jesus forsaken them? Was He who had conquered disease and demons, and even death, powerless to help His disciples now? Was He unmindful of them in their distress?

DA 334.5

Again they call, but there is no answer except the shrieking of the angry blast. Already their boat is sinking. A moment, and apparently they will be swallowed up by the hungry waters.

DA 334.6

Suddenly a flash of lightning pierces the darkness, and they see Jesus lying asleep, undisturbed by the tumult. In amazement and despair they exclaim, “Master, carest Thou not that we perish?” How can He rest so peacefully, while they are in danger and battling with death?

DA 335.1

Their cry arouses Jesus. As the lightning’s glare reveals Him, they see the peace of heaven in His face; they read in His glance self-forgetful, tender love, and, their hearts turning to Him, cry, “Lord, save us: we perish.”

DA 335.2

Never did a soul utter that cry unheeded. As the disciples grasp their oars to make a last effort, Jesus rises. He stands in the midst of His disciples, while the tempest rages, the waves break over them, and the lightning illuminates His countenance. He lifts His hand, so often employed in deeds of mercy, and says to the angry sea, “Peace, be still.”

DA 335.3

The storm ceases. The billows sink to rest. The clouds roll away, and the stars shine forth. The boat rests upon a quiet sea. Then turning to His disciples, Jesus asks sorrowfully, “Why are ye fearful? have ye not yet faith?” Mark 4:40, R.V.

DA 335.4

A hush fell upon the disciples. Even Peter did not attempt to express the awe that filled his heart. The boats that had set out to accompany Jesus had been in the same peril with that of the disciples. Terror and despair had seized their occupants; but the command of Jesus brought quiet to the scene of tumult. The fury of the storm had driven the boats into close proximity, and all on board beheld the miracle. In the calm that followed, fear was forgotten. The people whispered among themselves, “What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?”

DA 336.1

When Jesus was awakened to meet the storm, He was in perfect peace. There was no trace of fear in word or look, for no fear was in His heart. But He rested not in the possession of almighty power. It was not as the “Master of earth and sea and sky” that He reposed in quiet. That power He had laid down, and He says, “I can of Mine own self do nothing.” John 5:30. He trusted in the Father’s might. It was in faith—faith in God’s love and care—that Jesus rested, and the power of that word which stilled the storm was the power of God.

DA 336.2

As Jesus rested by faith in the Father’s care, so we are to rest in the care of our Saviour. If the disciples had trusted in Him, they would have been kept in peace. Their fear in the time of danger revealed their unbelief. In their efforts to save themselves, they forgot Jesus; and it was only when, in despair of self-dependence, they turned to Him that He could give them help.

DA 336.3

How often the disciples’ experience is ours! When the tempests of temptation gather, and the fierce lightnings flash, and the waves sweep over us, we battle with the storm alone, forgetting that there is One who can help us. We trust to our own strength till our hope is lost, and we are ready to perish. Then we remember Jesus, and if we call upon Him to save us, we shall not cry in vain. Though He sorrowfully reproves our unbelief and self-confidence, He never fails to give us the help we need. Whether on the land or on the sea, if we have the Saviour in our hearts, there is no need of fear. Living faith in the Redeemer will smooth the sea of life, and will deliver us from danger in the way that He knows to be best.

DA 336.4

There is another spiritual lesson in this miracle of the stilling of the tempest. Every man’s experience testifies to the truth of the words of Scripture, “The wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest.... There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” Isaiah 57:20, 21. Sin has destroyed our peace. While self is unsubdued, we can find no rest. The masterful passions of the heart no human power can control. We are as helpless here as were the disciples to quiet the raging storm. But He who spoke peace to the billows of Galilee has spoken the word of peace for every soul. However fierce the tempest, those who turn to Jesus with the cry, “Lord, save us,” will find deliverance. His grace, that reconciles the soul to God, quiets the strife of human passion, and in His love the heart is at rest. “He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so He bringeth them unto their desired haven.” Psalm 107:29, 30. “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” “The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.” Romans 5:1; Isaiah 32:17.

DA 337.1

In the early morning the Saviour and His companions came to shore, and the light of the rising sun touched sea and land as with the benediction of peace. But no sooner had they stepped upon the beach than their eyes were greeted by a sight more terrible than the fury of the tempest. From some hiding place among the tombs, two madmen rushed upon them as if to tear them in pieces. Hanging about these men were parts of chains which they had broken in escaping from confinement. Their flesh was torn and bleeding where they had cut themselves with sharp stones. Their eyes glared out from their long and matted hair, the very likeness of humanity seemed to have been blotted out by the demons that possessed them, and they looked more like wild beasts than like men.

DA 337.2

The disciples and their companions fled in terror; but presently they noticed that Jesus was not with them, and they turned to look for Him. He was standing where they had left Him. He who had stilled the tempest, who had before met Satan and conquered him, did not flee before these demons. When the men, gnashing their teeth, and foaming at the mouth, approached Him, Jesus raised that hand which had beckoned the waves to rest, and the men could come no nearer. They stood raging but helpless before Him.

DA 337.3

With authority He bade the unclean spirits come out of them. His words penetrated the darkened minds of the unfortunate men. They realized dimly that One was near who could save them from the tormenting demons. They fell at the Saviour’s feet to worship Him; but when their lips were opened to entreat His mercy, the demons spoke through them, crying vehemently, “What have I to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of God most high? I beseech Thee, torment me not.”

DA 338.1

Jesus asked, “What is thy name?” And the answer was, “My name is Legion: for we are many.” Using the afflicted men as mediums of communication, they besought Jesus not to send them out of the country. Upon a mountainside not far distant a great herd of swine was feeding. Into these the demons asked to be allowed to enter, and Jesus suffered them. Immediately a panic seized the herd. They rushed madly down the cliff, and, unable to check themselves upon the shore, plunged into the lake, and perished.

DA 338.2

Meanwhile a marvelous change had come over the demoniacs. Light had shone into their minds. Their eyes beamed with intelligence. The countenances, so long deformed into the image of Satan, became suddenly mild, the bloodstained hands were quiet, and with glad voices the men praised God for their deliverance.

DA 338.3

From the cliff the keepers of the swine had seen all that had occurred, and they hurried away to publish the news to their employers and to all the people. In fear and amazement the whole population flocked to meet Jesus. The two demoniacs had been the terror of the country. No one had been safe to pass the place where they were; for they would rush upon every traveler with the fury of demons. Now these men were clothed and in their right mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to His words, and glorifying the name of Him who had made them whole. But the people who beheld this wonderful scene did not rejoice. The loss of the swine seemed to them of greater moment than the deliverance of these captives of Satan.

DA 338.4

It was in mercy to the owners of the swine that this loss had been permitted to come upon them. They were absorbed in earthly things, and cared not for the great interests of spiritual life. Jesus desired to break the spell of selfish indifference, that they might accept His grace. But regret and indignation for their temporal loss blinded their eyes to the Saviour’s mercy.

DA 339.1

The manifestation of supernatural power aroused the superstitions of the people, and excited their fears. Further calamities might follow from having this Stranger among them. They apprehended financial ruin, and determined to be freed from His presence. Those who had crossed the lake with Jesus told of all that had happened on the preceding night, of their peril in the tempest, and how the wind and the sea had been stilled. But their words were without effect. In terror the people thronged about Jesus, beseeching Him to depart from them, and He complied, taking ship at once for the opposite shore.

DA 339.2

The people of Gergesa had before them the living evidence of Christ’s power and mercy. They saw the men who had been restored to reason; but they were so fearful of endangering their earthly interests that He who had vanquished the prince of darkness before their eyes was treated as an intruder, and the Gift of heaven was turned from their doors. We have not the opportunity of turning from the person of Christ as had the Gergesenes; but still there are many who refuse to obey His word, because obedience would involve the sacrifice of some worldly interest. Lest His presence shall cause them pecuniary loss, many reject His grace, and drive His Spirit from them.

DA 339.3

But far different was the feeling of the restored demoniacs. They desired the company of their deliverer. In His presence they felt secure from the demons that had tormented their lives and wasted their manhood. As Jesus was about to enter the boat, they kept close to His side, knelt at His feet, and begged Him to keep them near Him, where they might ever listen to His words. But Jesus bade them go home and tell what great things the Lord had done for them.

DA 339.4

Here was a work for them to do,—to go to a heathen home, and tell of the blessing they had received from Jesus. It was hard for them to be separated from the Saviour. Great difficulties were sure to beset them in association with their heathen countrymen. And their long isolation from society seemed to have disqualified them for the work He had indicated. But as soon as Jesus pointed out their duty they were ready to obey. Not only did they tell their own households and neighbors about Jesus, but they went throughout Decapolis, everywhere declaring His power to save, and describing how He had freed them from the demons. In doing this work they could receive a greater blessing than if, merely for benefit to themselves, they had remained in His presence. It is in working to spread the good news of salvation that we are brought near to the Saviour.

DA 340.1

The two restored demoniacs were the first missionaries whom Christ sent to preach the gospel in the region of Decapolis. For a few moments only these men had been privileged to hear the teachings of Christ. Not one sermon from His lips had ever fallen upon their ears. They could not instruct the people as the disciples who had been daily with Christ were able to do. But they bore in their own persons the evidence that Jesus was the Messiah. They could tell what they knew; what they themselves had seen, and heard, and felt of the power of Christ. This is what everyone can do whose heart has been touched by the grace of God. John, the beloved disciple, wrote: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ... that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you.” 1 John 1:1-3. As witnesses for Christ, we are to tell what we know, what we ourselves have seen and heard and felt. If we have been following Jesus step by step, we shall have something right to the point to tell concerning the way in which He has led us. We can tell how we have tested His promise, and found the promise true. We can bear witness to what we have known of the grace of Christ. This is the witness for which our Lord calls, and for want of which the world is perishing.

DA 340.2

Though the people of Gergesa had not received Jesus, He did not leave them to the darkness they had chosen. When they bade Him depart from them, they had not heard His words. They were ignorant of that which they were rejecting. Therefore He again sent the light to them, and by those to whom they would not refuse to listen.

DA 340.3

In causing the destruction of the swine, it was Satan’s purpose to turn the people away from the Saviour, and prevent the preaching of the gospel in that region. But this very occurrence roused the whole country as nothing else could have done, and directed attention to Christ. Though the Saviour Himself departed, the men whom He had healed remained as witnesses to His power. Those who had been mediums of the prince of darkness became channels of light, messengers of the Son of God. Men marveled as they listened to the wondrous news. A door was opened to the gospel throughout that region. When Jesus returned to Decapolis, the people flocked about Him, and for three days, not merely the inhabitants of one town, but thousands from all the surrounding region, heard the message of salvation. Even the power of demons is under the control of our Saviour, and the working of evil is overruled for good.

DA 341.1

The encounter with the demoniacs of Gergesa had a lesson for the disciples. It showed the depths of degradation to which Satan is seeking to drag the whole human race, and the mission of Christ to set men free from his power. Those wretched beings, dwelling in the place of graves, possessed by demons, in bondage to uncontrolled passions and loathsome lusts, represent what humanity would become if given up to satanic jurisdiction. Satan’s influence is constantly exerted upon men to distract the senses, control the mind for evil, and incite to violence and crime. He weakens the body, darkens the intellect, and debases the soul. Whenever men reject the Saviour’s invitation, they are yielding themselves to Satan. Multitudes in every department in life, in the home, in business, and even in the church, are doing this today. It is because of this that violence and crime have overspread the earth, and moral darkness, like the pall of death, enshrouds the habitations of men. Through his specious temptations Satan leads men to worse and worse evils, till utter depravity and ruin are the result. The only safeguard against his power is found in the presence of Jesus. Before men and angels Satan has been revealed as man’s enemy and destroyer; Christ, as man’s friend and deliverer. His Spirit will develop in man all that will ennoble the character and dignify the nature. It will build man up for the glory of God in body and soul and spirit. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7. He has called us “to the obtaining of the glory”—character—“of our Lord Jesus Christ;” has called us to be “conformed to the image of His Son.” 2 Thessalonians 2:14; Romans 8:29.

DA 341.2

And souls that have been degraded into instruments of Satan are still through the power of Christ transformed into messengers of righteousness, and sent forth by the Son of God to tell what “great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.”

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 35—The Stilling of the Storm

HLv 223.1

It had been an eventful day. Beside the Sea of Galilee Jesus had spoken His first parables, explaining the nature of His kingdom and the manner in which it was to be established. He had likened His work to that of the sower; the development of His kingdom to the growth of the mustard seed and the effect of leaven in meal. The final separation of the righteous and the wicked He had pictured in parables of the wheat and tares and the fishing net. The precious truths He taught had been illustrated by the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price.

HLv 223.2

As evening came on, the crowds still pressed upon Him. Day after day He had ministered to them, scarcely pausing for food or rest. Now the close of day found Him so utterly wearied that He sought retirement in some solitary place across the lake. He bade His disciples accompany Him thither.

HLv 223.3

After He had dismissed the multitude, they took Him into the boat and hastily set off. But other fishing boats lying near the shore were quickly crowded with people who followed Jesus, eager still to see and hear Him.

HLv 223.4

The Saviour, overcome with weariness and hunger, lay down in the stern of the boat and soon fell asleep. The evening had been calm and pleasant, but suddenly darkness overspread the sky, and a fierce tempest burst upon the lake.

HLv 223.5

The waves, lashed into fury by howling winds, dashed fiercely over the boat and threatened to engulf it. Those hardy fishermen had guided their craft safely through many a storm, but now their strength and skill availed nothing. Helpless in the grasp of the tempest, they saw their boat filling.

HLv 224.1

Absorbed in their efforts to save themselves, they had forgotten that Jesus was on board. Now, seeing only death before them, they remembered at whose command they had set out to cross the sea. In Jesus was their only hope. “Master, Master!” But their voices were drowned by the roaring of the tempest, and there was no reply. Doubt and fear assailed them. Was He who had conquered disease and demons, and even death, powerless to help His disciples now? Was He unmindful of their distress?

HLv 224.2

Again they called, but there was no answer except the shrieking of the angry blast. Apparently they were to be swallowed up by the hungry waters.

HLv 224.3

Suddenly a flash of lightning pierced the darkness, and they saw Jesus lying asleep, undisturbed by the tumult. In amazement they exclaimed, “Master, carest thou not that we perish?”

HLv 224.4

Their cry aroused Jesus. As the lightning’s glare revealed Him, they saw the peace of heaven in His face; they saw in His glance tender love, and they cried, “Lord, save us: we perish.”

HLv 224.5

Never did a soul utter that cry unheeded. As the disciples grasped their oars to make a last effort, Jesus rose. While the tempest raged and the waves broke over them, He lifted His hand and said to the angry sea, “Peace, be still.”

HLv 224.6

The billows sank, the clouds rolled away, and the stars shone forth. The boat rested on a quiet sea. Then Jesus asked sorrowfully, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” RSV.

HLv 224.7

A hush fell upon the disciples. Terror and despair had seized the occupants of the boats that had set out to accompany Jesus. The storm had driven the boats into close proximity, and all on board beheld the miracle. The people whispered among themselves, “What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?”

HLv 225.1

When Jesus was awakened to meet the storm, there was no trace of fear in word or look. But He rested not in possession of almighty power. It was not as “Master of earth and sea and sky” that He reposed in quiet. That power He had laid down. “I can of Mine own self do nothing.” John 5:30. He trusted in the Father’s might. It was in faith—faith in God’s love and care—that Jesus rested, and the power of that word which stilled the storm was the power of God.

HLv 225.2

So we are to rest in the care of our Saviour. The disciples’ fear in time of danger revealed their unbelief. They forgot Jesus, and only when they turned to Him could He give them help.

HLv 225.3

How often when tempests of temptation gather we battle with the storm alone. We trust to our own strength till we are ready to perish. Then we remember Jesus, and if we call upon Him to save us, we shall not cry in vain. He never fails to give us the help we need. If we have the Saviour in our hearts, there is no need of fear. The Redeemer will deliver us from danger in the way that He knows best.

HLv 225.4

“The wicked are like the troubled sea.” Isaiah 57:20. Sin has destroyed our peace. The masterful passions of the heart no human power can control. We are as helpless here as were the disciples to quiet the raging storm. But however fierce the tempest, those who turn to Jesus with the cry, “Lord, save us,” will find deliverance. His grace quiets the strife of human passion, and in His love the heart is at rest. “He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad because they had quiet; and He brought them to their desired haven.” Psalm 107:29, 30, RSV. “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

HLv 226.1

In the early morning the Saviour and His companions came to shore. The light of the rising sun touched sea and land with the benediction of peace. But as they stepped on the beach, their eyes were greeted by a sight more terrible than the fury of the tempest. Two madmen rushed on them as if to tear them to pieces. Hanging about these men were parts of chains they had broken in escaping from confinement. Their flesh was torn and bleeding. Their eyes glared out from under their long and matted hair. Demons possessed them, and they looked more like wild beasts than like men.

HLv 226.2

The disciples fled in terror; but presently they turned to look for Jesus. He was standing where they had left Him. He who had stilled the tempest did not flee. When the men, foaming at the mouth, approached Him, Jesus raised that hand which had beckoned the waves to rest, and the men could come no nearer.

HLv 226.3

With authority Jesus commanded the unclean spirits to come out of them. His words penetrated the darkened minds of the unfortunate men. They realized dimly that One was near who could save them from the tormenting demons. But when their lips were opened to entreat His mercy, the demons spoke through them, crying vehemently, “What have I to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of God most high? I beseech Thee, torment me not.”

HLv 226.4

Jesus asked, “What is thy name?” And the answer was, “My name is Legion: for we are many.” The demons begged Jesus not to send them out of the country. On a mountainside not far distant a great herd of swine was feeding. Into these the demons asked to be allowed to enter. Immediately the herd rushed madly down the cliff, plunged into the lake, and perished.

HLv 226.5

Meanwhile a marvelous change had come over the demoniacs. Light had shone into their minds. Their eyes beamed with intelligence. With glad voices the men praised God for deliverance.

HLv 226.6

From the cliff the keepers of the swine had seen all that had occurred, and they hurried away to publish the news to their employers. In fear and amazement the whole population flocked to meet Jesus. The demoniacs had been the terror of the country. No one had been safe to pass where they were. Now these men were clothed and in their right mind, listening to Jesus’ words and glorifying Him who had made them whole. But the people did not rejoice. The loss of the swine seemed greater than the deliverance of these captives of Satan.

HLv 227.1

The owners of the swine were absorbed in earthly things and cared not for the great interests of spiritual life. Jesus desired to break the spell of selfish indifference, that they might accept His grace. But indignation for their temporal loss blinded their eyes to the Saviour’s mercy.

HLv 227.2

The manifestation of supernatural power excited the fears of the people. Further calamities might follow from having this Stranger among them. Those who had crossed the lake with Jesus told of their peril in the tempest and how the wind and the sea had been stilled. But their words were without effect. In terror the people pleaded with Jesus to go away, and He complied, taking ship at once for the opposite shore.

HLv 227.3

The people of Gergesa were so fearful of endangering their earthly interests that He who had vanquished the prince of darkness before their eyes was treated as an intruder, and the Gift of heaven was turned from their doors. Still there are many who refuse to obey Christ’s word because obedience would involve the sacrifice of some worldly interest. Lest His presence cause pecuniary loss, many reject His grace and drive His Spirit from them.

HLv 227.4

But the restored demoniacs desired the company of their Deliverer. In His presence they felt secure from the demons that had tormented their lives and wasted their manhood. As Jesus was about to enter the boat, they kept close to His side and begged Him to keep them near Him. But Jesus told them to go home and tell what great things the Lord had done for them.

HLv 228.1

Here was a work for them to do—to go to a heathen home and tell of the blessing they had received from Jesus. It was hard for them to be separated from the Saviour. Difficulties were sure to beset them. Long isolation from society seemed to disqualify them for the work He had indicated. But as soon as Jesus pointed out their duty, they were ready to obey. They went throughout Decapolis, everywhere declaring His power to save and describing how He had freed them from the demons. In doing this work they could receive a greater blessing than if they had remained in His presence. In working to spread the “good news” of salvation we are brought near to the Saviour.

HLv 228.3

If we have been following Jesus step by step, we shall have something to tell concerning the way in which He has led us: how we have tested His promise, and found the promise true. This is the witness for which our Lord calls us.

HLv 228.4

Though the people of Gergesa had not received Jesus, He did not leave them to the darkness they had chosen. They had not heard His words. They were ignorant of that which they were rejecting. Therefore He again sent light to them by those to whom they would not refuse to listen.

HLv 228.5

The destruction of the swine roused the whole country as nothing else could have done and directed attention to Christ. The men He healed remained as witnesses to His power, channels of light, messengers of the Son of God. A door was opened throughout that region. When Jesus returned to Decapolis, thousands heard the message. Even the working of evil is overruled for good.

HLv 229.1

The demoniacs of Gergesa, dwelling in the place of graves, in bondage to uncontrolled passions and loathsome lusts, represent what humanity would become if given up to satanic jurisdiction. Satan’s influence is constantly exerted on men to control the mind and incite to violence and crime. He darkens the intellect and debases the soul. Whenever men reject the Saviour’s invitation, they are yielding themselves to Satan. Multitudes in the home, in business, and even in church are doing this today. Because of this, violence and crime overspread the earth, and moral darkness enshrouds the habitations of men. Satan leads men to worse and worse evils, till utter depravity and ruin are the result. The only safeguard against his power is the presence of Jesus. Before men and angels Satan has been revealed as man’s enemy and destroyer; Christ, as man’s friend and deliverer.

From Heaven With Love

Superstition Excited Fears

HLv 228.2

The two restored demoniacs were the first missionaries Christ sent to preach in the region of Decapolis. For a few moments only these men had been privileged to hear the teachings of Christ. But they bore in their own persons the evidence that Jesus was the Messiah. They could tell what they knew, what they had seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ. This is what everyone can do whose heart has been touched by the grace of God. See 1 John 1:1-3.

HLv 229.2

God has called us to be “conformed to the image of His Son.” Romans 8:29. And souls that have been degraded into instruments of Satan are still through Christ transformed into messengers of righteousness and sent forth to tell “what great things the Lord hath done for thee.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 208, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 43

Absorbed in their efforts to save themselves, they had forgotten that Jesus was on board. Suddenly they came to their senses. They remembered at whose command they had set out to cross the sea. In Jesus was their only hope. “Master, Master!” they cried. [Luke 8:24.] There was no response to their call. Again they called; again no response. Suddenly a flash of lightning revealed Him sleeping. Arousing Him, they exclaimed, “Lord, save us; we perish! And He saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marveled, saying, What manner of man if this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” [Matthew 8:25-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 130, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 130, 1903, par. 16

Just as all hope is leaving them, there comes to them the thought that Jesus is on board. One of them, touching Him, says in accents of despair, “Master, save, or we perish.” [Matthew 8:25; Luke 8:24.] That cry reaches Christ’s heart. The thunder of the elements could not wake Him, but one alarmed touch from His disciples, one agonized cry, and He was instantly upon His feet.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Neighborhood: A Large Field of Work, June 16

YRP 176.1

Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him. Luke 8:39.

Radiant Religion

The Word Is the Light Sought By Many, November 15

RRe 321.1

It came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received Him: for they were all waiting for Him. Luke 8:40.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 36—The Touch of Faith

DA 342.1

Returning from Gergesa to the western shore, Jesus found a multitude gathered to receive Him, and they greeted Him with joy. He remained by the seaside for a time, teaching and healing, and then repaired to the house of Levi-Matthew to meet the publicans at the feast. Here Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, found Him.

DA 342.2

This elder of the Jews came to Jesus in great distress, and cast himself at His feet, exclaiming, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray Thee, come and lay Thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.”

DA 342.3

Jesus set out at once with the ruler for his home. Though the disciples had seen so many of His works of mercy, they were surprised at His compliance with the entreaty of the haughty rabbi; yet they accompanied their Master, and the people followed, eager and expectant.

DA 342.4

The ruler’s house was not far distant, but Jesus and His companions advanced slowly, for the crowd pressed Him on every side. The anxious father was impatient of delay; but Jesus, pitying the people, stopped now and then to relieve some suffering one, or to comfort a troubled heart.

DA 342.5

While they were still on the way, a messenger pressed through the crowd, bearing to Jairus the news that his daughter was dead, and it was useless to trouble the Master further. The word caught the ear of Jesus. “Fear not,” He said; “believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

DA 343.1

Jairus pressed closer to the Saviour, and together they hurried to the ruler’s home. Already the hired mourners and flute players were there, filling the air with their clamor. The presence of the crowd, and the tumult jarred upon the spirit of Jesus. He tried to silence them, saying, “Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” They were indignant at the words of the Stranger. They had seen the child in the embrace of death, and they laughed Him to scorn. Requiring them all to leave the house, Jesus took with Him the father and mother of the maiden, and the three disciples, Peter, James, and John, and together they entered the chamber of death.

DA 343.2

Jesus approached the bedside, and, taking the child’s hand in His own, He pronounced softly, in the familiar language of her home, the words, “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.”

DA 343.3

Instantly a tremor passed through the unconscious form. The pulses of life beat again. The lips unclosed with a smile. The eyes opened widely as if from sleep, and the maiden gazed with wonder on the group beside her. She arose, and her parents clasped her in their arms, and wept for joy.

DA 343.4

On the way to the ruler’s house, Jesus had met, in the crowd, a poor woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But her hopes revived when she heard of the cures that Christ performed. She felt assured that if she could only go to Him she would be healed. In weakness and suffering she came to the seaside where He was teaching, and tried to press through the crowd, but in vain. Again she followed Him from the house of Levi-Matthew, but was still unable to reach Him. She had begun to despair, when, in making His way through the multitude, He came near where she was.

DA 343.5

The golden opportunity had come. She was in the presence of the Great Physician! But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him, nor catch more than a passing glimpse of His figure. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” As He was passing, she reached forward, and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. But in that moment she knew that she was healed. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life, and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health.

DA 344.1

With a grateful heart she then tried to withdraw from the crowd; but suddenly Jesus stopped, and the people halted with Him. He turned, and looking about asked in a voice distinctly heard above the confusion of the multitude, “Who touched Me?” The people answered this query with a look of amazement. Jostled upon all sides, and rudely pressed hither and thither, as He was, it seemed a strange inquiry.

DA 344.2

Peter, ever ready to speak, said, “Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment. He would speak to the humble woman words of comfort that would be to her a wellspring of joy,—words that would be a blessing to His followers to the close of time.

DA 344.3

Looking toward the woman, Jesus insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told the story of her suffering, and how she had found relief. Jesus gently said, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for the mere act of touching His garments. It was not through the outward contact with Him, but through the faith which took hold on His divine power, that the cure was wrought.

DA 347.1

The wondering crowd that pressed close about Christ realized no accession of vital power. But when the suffering woman put forth her hand to touch Him, believing that she would be made whole, she felt the healing virtue. So in spiritual things. To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. The faith that is unto salvation is not a mere intellectual assent to the truth. He who waits for entire knowledge before he will exercise faith, cannot receive blessing from God. It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.

DA 347.2

After healing the woman, Jesus desired her to acknowledge the blessing she had received. The gifts which the gospel offers are not to be secured by stealth or enjoyed in secret. So the Lord calls upon us for confession of His goodness. “Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.” Isaiah 43:12.

DA 347.3

Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven’s chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. We are to acknowledge His grace as made known through the holy men of old; but that which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essentially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked by our own individuality. These precious acknowledgments to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christ-like life, have an irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls.

DA 348.1

When the ten lepers came to Jesus for healing, He bade them go and show themselves to the priest. On the way they were cleansed, but only one of them returned to give Him glory. The others went their way, forgetting Him who had made them whole. How many are still doing the same thing! The Lord works continually to benefit mankind. He is ever imparting His bounties. He raises up the sick from beds of languishing, He delivers men from peril which they do not see, He commissions heavenly angels to save them from calamity, to guard them from “the pestilence that walketh in darkness” and “the destruction that wasteth at noonday” (Psalm 91:6); but their hearts are unimpressed. He has given all the riches of heaven to redeem them, and yet they are unmindful of His great love. By their ingratitude they close their hearts against the grace of God. Like the heath in the desert they know not when good cometh, and their souls inhabit the parched places of the wilderness.

DA 348.2

It is for our own benefit to keep every gift of God fresh in our memory. Thus faith is strengthened to claim and to receive more and more. There is greater encouragement for us in the least blessing we ourselves receive from God than in all the accounts we can read of the faith and experience of others. The soul that responds to the grace of God shall be like a watered garden. His health shall spring forth speedily; his light shall rise in obscurity, and the glory of the Lord shall be seen upon him. Let us then remember the loving-kindness of the Lord, and the multitude of His tender mercies. Like the people of Israel, let us set up our stones of witness, and inscribe upon them the precious story of what God has wrought for us. And as we review His dealings with us in our pilgrimage, let us, out of hearts melted with gratitude, declare, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now in the presence of all His people.” Psalm 116:12-14.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 36—The Touch of Faith Brings Healing

HLv 230.1

Returning from Gergesa to the western shore of Lake Galilee, Jesus found a multitude gathered to receive Him. He remained by the seaside for a time, teaching and healing, and then went to the house of Levi-Matthew to meet the publicans at the feast. Here Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, found Him. In great distress he exclaimed, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray Thee, come and lay Thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.”

HLv 230.2

Jesus set out at once with the ruler for his home. The disciples were surprised at His compliance with the entreaty of the haughty rabbi, yet they accompanied their Master, and the people followed. Jesus and His companions advanced slowly, for the crowd pressed Him on every side. The anxious father was impatient, but Jesus stopped now and then to relieve suffering, or to comfort a troubled heart.

HLv 230.3

While they were on the way, a messenger pressed through the crowd, bearing the news that Jairus’s daughter was dead. The word caught the ear of Jesus. “Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

HLv 230.4

Together they hurried to the ruler’s home. Already hired mourners and flute players were filling the air with their clamor. Jesus tried to silence them: “Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” They were indignant at the words of the Stranger. They had seen the child in the embrace of death. Requiring them all to leave, Jesus took the father and mother of the maiden, and Peter, James, and John, and entered the chamber of death.

HLv 231.1

Jesus approached the bedside and, taking the child’s hand in His own, pronounced softly, in the familiar language of her home, “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.”

HLv 231.2

Instantly a tremor passed through the unconscious form. The eyes opened widely as if from sleep, and the maiden gazed with wonder on the group beside her. She arose, and her parents clasped her in their arms, and wept for joy.

HLv 231.3

On the way to the ruler’s house, Jesus had met a poor woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means on physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But her hopes revived when she heard of Christ. If she could only go to Him she would be healed. In weakness and suffering she came to the seaside where He was teaching, and tried to press through the crowd, but in vain. She followed Him from the house of Levi-Matthew, but was still unable to reach Him. She had begun to despair when He came near where she was.

HLv 231.4

She was in the presence of the Great Physician! But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him or catch more than a passing glimpse of Him. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” As He was passing, she reached forward and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life; and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health.

HLv 231.5

With grateful heart she tried to withdraw from the crowd, but suddenly Jesus stopped. Looking about, He asked in a voice distinctly heard above the confusion, “Who touched Me?” Jostled on all sides, as he was, it seemed a strange inquiry.

HLv 231.6

Peter, ever ready to speak, said, “Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment. He would speak to the humble woman words of comfort, words that would be a blessing to His followers to the close of time.

HLv 232.1

Looking toward the woman, Jesus insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward, trembling. With grateful tears she told of her suffering and how she had found relief. Jesus said, “Daughter, ... thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for touching His garments. Through the faith which took hold on His divine power, the cure was wrought.

HLv 232.2

To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith, which accepts Christ merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. Faith is not mere intellectual assent to truth. It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.

HLv 232.3

After healing the woman, Jesus desired her to acknowledge the blessing she had received. The gifts which the gospel offers are not to be enjoyed in secret. Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven’s chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. That which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. See Isaiah 43:12. Acknowledgments of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls.

HLv 233.1

When the ten lepers came to Jesus for healing, they were cleansed; but only one returned to give Him glory. The others went their way, forgetting Him who had made them whole. How many still do the same thing! The Lord raises up the sick, He delivers men from peril, He commissions angels to save them from calamity, to guard them from pestilence and destruction (Psalm 91:6); yet they are unmindful of His great love. By ingratitude they close their hearts against the grace of God.

HLv 233.2

It is for our own benefit to keep every gift of God fresh in our memory. Thus faith is strengthened. Let us, then, remember the loving-kindness of the Lord. And as we review God’s dealings with us, let us declare, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” Psalm 116:12.

Conflict and Courage

It Has to Be Personal, October 19

CC 298.1

If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. Matthew 9:21.

CC 298.2

It was a poor woman who spoke these words—a woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But as she heard of the Great Healer, her hopes revived.... Again and again she had tried in vain to get near Him.33The Ministry of Healing, 59.

CC 298.3

She had begun to despair, when, in making His way through the multitude, He came near where she was.... But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him, nor catch more than a passing glimpse of His figure.... As He was passing, she reached forward, and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. But in that moment she knew that she was healed. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life, and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health.

CC 298.4

With a grateful heart she then tried to withdraw from the crowd; but suddenly Jesus stopped.... The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment.... Finding concealment vain, she came forward tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told the story of her suffering, and how she had found relief. Jesus gently said, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for the mere act of touching His garments. It was not through the outward contact with Him, but through the faith which took hold on His divine power, that the cure was wrought....

CC 298.5

So in spiritual things. To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul.... It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves.34The Desire of Ages, 343-347.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 130, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 130, 1898, par. 3

When the woman reached forth her hand, and touched the hem of His garment, she thought this stealthy touch would not be known by anyone; but Christ recognized that touch, and responded to her faith by His healing power. She realized in a moment that she was made whole, and the Lord Jesus would not let such faith pass unnoticed. He turned Him about quickly, and said, “Who touched me?” All the disciples were pressing close around Him, and Peter said, “The multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?” And Jesus said, “Somebody hath touched me; for I perceive that virtue hath gone out of me.” When the woman saw that she was not hid, she came tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet, telling the whole story. For [twelve] years she had been afflicted; but as soon as her finger touched the hem of His garment, she was made whole. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. Go in peace.” [Luke 8:43-48.] The mere touch of faith brought its reward, and how then can we doubt God?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 1, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 9

As Jesus went the multitude followed Him and thronged and pressed Him; and there was a poor woman who had been afflicted for years who, when she heard of His work, crowded into the throng that she might but touch the hem of His garment, and she knew she would be made whole. As she touched Him, Jesus knew immediately that virtue had gone out of Him, and He turned to His disciples and said, “Who touched me?” [Luke 8:45.] They answered Him, Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and askest Thou, Who touched Me? But Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me! He knew that woman who had been suffering so long, and He knew how she was pressing through the crowd to Him, and when she sees she cannot come directly before Him, she has such faith in His power to heal she says, If I can but touch the hem of His garment I will be made whole. That was a very important touch; not a casual touch; it was a touch of faith. And she put forth her hand and touched the hem of His garment and was made whole. Oh, this is what we want! That kind of a faith will give us power in the world; it will flash the light in the pathway of those in darkness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 2, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 2, 1893, par. 14

Have you touched Christ? When the woman in the crowd touched Christ, He said, “Who touched me?” “Why,” Peter exclaimed, [“the multitude throng thee.”] Mark 5:27; [Luke 8:45]. Jesus said, “Somebody hath touched me.” [Verse 46.] The woman that was purified turned toward Him and told her pitiful story. She was made sound in a moment. Does He save you this day? Seek Him that is mighty. Choose between the Prince of Life and [the] prince of darkness. Study the words of Christ. There is no “guess so” there. “Ask and ye shall receive, Knock and it shall be opened unto you.” “If ye then being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit ....” [Luke 11:9, 13.] Thank God for that.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 74, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 74, 1895, par. 7

When Christ was on the way to raise one who was dead, there was a woman in the throng who had long been afflicted. She pressed through the crowd and touched the hem of his garment, and was healed. When Jesus, perceiving that someone had touched him with the hand of faith, <he turned and asked suddenly, Who touched me?> Peter, who was always ready to speak, said, “Master, the multitude throng thee, <press thee>, and sayest thou, Who touched me?” But Christ said, “Someone hath touched me.” It was no casual touch. <“For I perceive that virtue hath gone out of me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.] Then the poor woman seeing she was not hid> came trembling and confessed how long she had been afflicted and how she had been healed. She <thought if she could only come into the presence of Christ, he would heal her. She thought if she could only touch his garment and no one learn anything about it—as she could not speak to him or come to him for the crowd—she would be cured of her infirmity.> Jesus told her that it was her faith that had brought her deliverance.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 89a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 89a, 1897, par. 11

We may see Jesus presented in the gospel, and our faith may lay hold of Him as our personal Saviour, the object of our Lord and our imitation. What a welcome He has for us all. We need only to touch the hem of His garment, and His virtue gushes forth in response, “Who touched me? I can see that virtue hath gone out of me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.] You, Herbert, may clasp His hand. Thank God, a refuge is provided for you, into which you may run and be safe. In personal trust in Jesus Christ, in laying all your burdens at His feet, you will have peace with God, and be one with Christ. Thank God that Jesus is so precious, the One altogether lovely, the chiefest among ten thousand, the Sun of Righteousness, who will arise “with healing in his wings.” [Malachi 4:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 78, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 78, 1905, par. 5

There was in her experience a lesson of too much value to be passed over. The faith of this suffering, longing soul must be recognized. Turning round, Christ said, “Who touched Me?” “Thou seest the multitude thronging Thee,” the disciples said, “and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” [Luke 8:45; Mark 5:31.] But Christ replied, “Somebody has touched Me, for I perceive that virtue has gone out of Me.” [Luke 8:46.] Then the woman, grateful and penitent, told her pitiful story. “I but touched the hem of Thy garment,” she said, “And I was made whole.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 114, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, par. 6

When the afflicted woman touched the Saviour, merely the hem of His garment, she thought it she could just steal a chance to touch Him, she would be healed, so great was her faith. As that crowd kept pressing, pressing closer and closer to Christ, she kept getting a little nearer until the hoped for privilege came. She made the touch of faith. Christ cried out and said: “Who touched me?” Why, said those about Him, here is the crowd pressing You on the right, and on the left, and You ask, Who touched Me? “But somebody has touched me, virtue has gone from me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.]

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 4—The Touch of Faith

MH 60.4

Looking at Him in amazement, Peter answered, “Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Luke 8:45.

MH 60.5

“Somebody hath touched Me,” Jesus said; “for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” Verse 46. He could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual touch of the careless throng. Someone had touched Him with a deep purpose and had received answer.

MH 61.1

Looking toward the woman, Christ insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward trembling, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told Him, before all the people, why she had touched His garment, and how she had been immediately healed. She feared that her act in touching His garment had been one of presumption; but no word of censure came from Christ’s lips. He spoke only words of approval. They came from a heart of love, filled with sympathy for human woe. “Daughter,” He said gently, “be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” Verse 48. How cheering were these words to her. Now no fear that she had given offense embittered her joy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 85, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, par. 27

With a grateful heart she was about to steal away from the throng, but suddenly Jesus stopped. He turned, and looking about Him asked, “Who touched Me?” [Luke 8:45.]

24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, par. 28

The people were astonished at His question, and one of the disciples asked, “Master, the multitude throng and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” [Verse 45.] But Christ could distinguish between the casual touch of the multitude and the touch of faith, and He desired to make known the story of this woman’s unquestioning belief. He would teach the lesson that it is those who are earnest, those who pant for the salvation of God, who shall be satisfied.

24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, par. 29

Seeing that she was discovered, the woman came forward, and falling at the feet of Christ, told her pitiful story. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” [Verse 48.]

In Heavenly Places

The Faith That Avails, April 11

HP 108.1

And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. Luke 8:46.

HP 108.4

When the woman reached forth her hand and touched the hem of His garment, she thought this stealthy touch would not be known by anyone; but Christ recognized that touch and responded to her faith by His healing power. She realized in a moment that she was made whole, and the Lord Jesus would not let such faith pass unnoticed. He turned Him about quickly and said, “Who touched me?” All the disciples were pressing close around Him, and Peter said, “The multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me” (Luke 8:45, 46).

HP 108.5

When the woman saw that she was not hid she came tremblingly and cast herself at His feet, telling the whole story. For twelve years she had been afflicted, but as soon as her finger touched the hem of His garment she was made whole. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace” (verse 48). The mere touch of faith brought its reward.25Letter 130, 1898.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 111, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 20

She desired to express her thanks to the One mighty to save, whose virtue had done more for her in one touch than the physicians had done in twelve long years; but she dared not. With a grateful heart she tried to withdraw from the crowd. Suddenly Jesus stopped, and turning round, He asked, “Who touched Me?” Looking at Him with amazement, Peter answered, “Master, the multitude throng Thee, and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me; for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.] He could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Some one had touched Him with a deep purpose and had received answer.

19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 24

She feared that perhaps her act in touching His garment had been one of presumption, but no word of censure came from Christ’s lips. He spoke only words of approval. They came from a heart of love, filled with sympathy for human woe. “Daughter,” He said gently, “be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” [Verse 48.]

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

MR No. 1547—Trials and Blessings at the Newcastle Camp Meeting; Abiding in Christ and Resting in His Love

21MR 228.1

“And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and cast herself at His feet, telling the whole story. For twelve years she had been afflicted, but as soon as her finger touched the hem of His garment she was made whole. Jesus said to her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace” [Luke 8:45-48]. The mere touch of faith brought its reward, and how then can we doubt God?

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 50—Come and Seek and Find

1SM 334.1

When you respond to the drawing of Christ, and join yourself to Him, you manifest saving faith. To talk of religious things in a casual way, to pray for spiritual blessings without real soul hunger and living faith, avails little. The wondering crowd that pressed close about Jesus realized no accession of vital power from the contact. But when the poor, suffering woman, who for twelve years had been an invalid, in her great need put forth her hand and touched the hem of His garment, she felt the healing virtue. Hers was the touch of faith, and Christ recognized that touch. He knew that virtue had gone out from Him, and turning about in the throng, He asked, “Who touched me?” (Luke 8:45). Surprised at such a question, the disciples answered, “Master, the multitude throng thee, ... and sayest thou, Who touched me? And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace” (Luke 8:45-48). The faith which avails to bring us in vital contact with Christ expresses on our part supreme preference, perfect reliance, entire consecration. This faith works by love and purifies the soul. It works in the life of the follower of Christ true obedience to God’s commandments; for love to God and love to man will be the result of vital connection with Christ. “If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 13, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 13, 1899, par. 7

Happiness now filled the woman’s soul, and she was seeking to escape from the crowd and go quietly on her way when Christ’s voice, plain and distinct, was heard saying, “Who touched me?” As he looked round to see who had touched him, Peter and the other disciples said, “Master, the multitude throng and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?” It seemed a strange question to ask, but Christ desired to teach a lesson which would sound down through the ages to our time, and He said, “Somebody hath touched me; for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people, for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.” “Daughter,” Christ said, “be of good cheer; thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” [Luke 8:45-48.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 49, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 49, 1891, par. 12

Oh, what loneliness of soul I have had! I have felt at times when the hands of my brethren touched me that they sent an icy chill of unsympathizing indifference to my heart. The words that I have spoken came back as though spoken to a wall. I feel something, as I have been shown was the case when the throng pressed about Christ, and the woman touched Him and was healed. Christ said, “Somebody hath touched me” [Luke 8:46], showing all this close pressing about Christ was not the contact of soul with soul, but only an outside pressure against His person. I feel that it is thus with me. The sense of my loneliness and helplessness comes over me and with such a sense of feeling alone. Alone, yet in the midst of my brethren who crowd and press me but who do not feel, who do not understand, and my soul feels at times that it will burst with agony.

Lift Him Up

We Must Believe in Him, March 12

LHU 85.1

Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace. Luke 8:48.

The Ministry of Healing

God’s Promises

MH 122.2

The Scriptures are to be received as God’s word to us, not written merely, but spoken. When the afflicted ones came to Christ, He beheld not only those who asked for help, but all who throughout the ages should come to Him in like need and with like faith. When He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee;” when He said to the woman of Capernaum, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace,” He spoke to other afflicted, sin-burdened ones who should seek His help. Matthew 9:2; Luke 8:48.