EGW WritingsLuke 9
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 3
Read Luke 9 in the BibleLuke 9:23-24
This Day With God
The Greatness of Humility, December 13
TDG 356.1
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. Luke 9:24.TDG 356.4
“If any man will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23). This is the proof of discipleship. If church members would be doers of the Word, as they solemnly pledged themselves to be when they received baptism, they would love their brethren, and would be constantly seeking for unity and harmony....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 60, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 60, 1894, par. 8
God calls upon every one to do his best. When the Lord sees both ministers and people standing as faithful workmen, each at his post of duty, co-operating with heavenly intelligences, then and then only He will say of them, “Ye are laborers together with God; ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Christ has said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” [Luke 9:23, 24.]Luke 9:23-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 88, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 88, 1903, par. 1
“And He said unto them, if any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever will lose his life for My sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away. For whosoever shall be ashamed of Me and of My words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when He shall come in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.” [Luke 9:23-26.]Luke 9:23-58
The Ministry of Healing
Hope and Courage
MH 197.1
Jesus came to this world in humility. He was of lowly birth. The Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, the Commander of all the angel host, He humbled Himself to accept humanity, and then He chose a life of poverty and humiliation. He had no opportunities that the poor do not have. Toil, hardship, and privation were a part of every day’s experience. “Foxes have holes,” He said, “and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head.” Luke 9:58.MH 197.4
Jesus sought to correct the world’s false standard of judging the value of men. He took His position with the poor, that He might lift from poverty the stigma that the world had attached to it. He has stripped from it forever the reproach of scorn, by blessing the poor, the inheritors of God’s kingdom. He points us to the path He trod, saying, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” Verse 23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 124, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 124, 1898, par. 8
“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Who will now teach their children that there is One to whom gifts and thank offerings should be given. For our sake Christ gave Himself up to a life of self denial and poverty, a life without luxuries, without adornments, without houses or lands. “Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” [Luke 9:58.] He gave Himself as a sinless offering, that men might have opportunity to return to God. Today the heavenly Watcher waits to see who will appreciate this inestimable gift. Those who refuse to receive and obey the truth show contempt for the sacrifice made for them, and will be called upon to answer for the choice they have made.13LtMs, Ms 124, 1898, par. 40
Do not withhold the gifts which are necessary to sustain the work of God. The heavenly universe is waiting for channels through which the tide of mercy may flow throughout the world. Had the purpose of God been acted out by His people, the saints would now have received their welcome into the City of God. We need far less of self, and far more of Christ. The same power that the apostles had upon the Day of Pentecost is for those who do God’s service in 1898. Those who love God should not live as though they were under little or no obligation to God. All who have an understanding of the truth should act constantly as if the duty of living consecrated lives to God, were the only obligation they were under. They should show that they have a sense of the work to be done, and that they are willing to do it by heeding the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 139, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 15
The Saviour said, “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] For the joy of seeing souls rescued from the hand of the destroyer, Christ endured the cross. He became the living Sacrifice for a fallen world. Into that act of self-sacrifice was put the heart of Christ, the love of God, and through this sacrifice the mighty influence of the Holy Spirit was given to the world. It is through sacrifice that the work must be carried forward. Self-sacrifice is required of every child of God. Christ said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Christ gives a new character to all who believe. This character, through His infinite sacrifice, is to be the re-production of His own.13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 73
For our sake Christ gave Himself to a life of self-denial and poverty. He was without luxuries, without adornment, without houses or lands. He said, “Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” [Luke 9:58.] He gave Himself as a sinless offering, that men might have opportunity to return to God. “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed.” [Isaiah 53:5.] All this He who is the brightness of His Father’s glory and beauty did to give evidence of His love for fallen man. He has paid the ransom for the soul of every son and daughter of Adam. Today the heavenly Father waits to see who will appreciate this inestimable gift. He is waiting to see who will show their gratitude for Him by self-sacrifice for those He died to save.13LtMs, Ms 139, 1898, par. 82
Those who love God will not live as though they were under little or no obligation to Him. All who have an understanding of the truth should act constantly as if the duty of living a life consecrated to God were the only obligation they were under. They should show that they have a sense of the work to be done, and that they are willing to heed the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 94, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 94, 1899, par. 6
Since the increase of wages, there has been a steady increase of the spirit of covetousness, which is idolatry. Some have coveted higher and still higher wages. The Lord desires that the souls of those who have indulged this spirit be purified from this plague. Look at the world’s Redeemer, the King of glory. He did in this earth a work so large and so broad that it embraced the world. His was the ministry of love, yet He said, “Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” [Luke 9:58.]14LtMs, Lt 94, 1899, par. 31
No true minister can be a rich man. Christ says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] The man who will commence at the lowest round of the ladder, and ascend, keeping heaven always in view, will become rich in heaven’s treasure. God’s Word is to him a mine of wealth. All who will bring earnestness and self-denial into their ministry are making provision for an eternal reward.Luke 9:24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 10, 1881
3LtMs, Lt 10, 1881, par. 12
In the name and by the authority of the Holy Spirit, I entreat you to lay down the weapons of your warfare. Do not lightly esteem the Word of God. Do not belittle His commandments and thus please the enemy of Christ. Do not lead your children to disobedience against God and bring the blood of their souls upon you. They are Christ’s property; teach them to yield obedience to His claims. The destiny of your children will be decided by the turn which your own hands shall give to the scale. “Whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” Luke 9:24. If you would share in the glory of Christ when He shall appear, you must share His reproach and His suffering here.Luke 9:24-25
Luke 9:25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 272a, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 272a, 1903, par. 1
My heart is drawn out after you. The Lord wants you to come into active working order with Himself. You have, my dear brother, no time to lose. “What is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?” “Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Luke 9:25; Matthew 16:26.]Luke 9:26
Our High Calling
Youth to Stand Up for Christ, September 30
OHC 279.1
For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels. Luke 9:26.Words of Encouragement to Workers in the Home Missionary Field
Unreserved Surrender
PH164 32.1
“He said unto them, Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for My sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” “Whosoever shall be ashamed of Me and of My words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when He shall come in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-36; Luke 9:26.Luke 9:28-36
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 46—He Was Transfigured
DA 419.1
Evening is drawing on as Jesus calls to His side three of His disciples, Peter, James, and John, and leads them across the fields, and far up a rugged path, to a lonely mountainside. The Saviour and His disciples have spent the day in traveling and teaching, and the mountain climb adds to their weariness. Christ has lifted burdens from mind and body of many sufferers; He has sent the thrill of life through their enfeebled frames; but He also is compassed with humanity, and with His disciples He is wearied with the ascent.DA 419.2
The light of the setting sun still lingers on the mountain top, and gilds with its fading glory the path they are traveling. But soon the light dies out from hill as well as valley, the sun disappears behind the western horizon, and the solitary travelers are wrapped in the darkness of night. The gloom of their surroundings seems in harmony with their sorrowful lives, around which the clouds are gathering and thickening.DA 419.3
The disciples do not venture to ask Christ whither He is going, or for what purpose. He has often spent entire nights in the mountains in prayer. He whose hand formed mountain and valley is at home with nature, and enjoys its quietude. The disciples follow where Christ leads the way; yet they wonder why their Master should lead them up this toilsome ascent when they are weary, and when He too is in need of rest.DA 419.4
Presently Christ tells them that they are now to go no farther. Stepping a little aside from them, the Man of Sorrows pours out His supplications with strong crying and tears. He prays for strength to endure the test in behalf of humanity. He must Himself gain a fresh hold on Omnipotence, for only thus can He contemplate the future. And He pours out His heart longings for His disciples, that in the hour of the power of darkness their faith may not fail. The dew is heavy upon His bowed form, but He heeds it not. The shadows of night gather thickly about Him, but He regards not their gloom. So the hours pass slowly by. At first the disciples unite their prayers with His in sincere devotion; but after a time they are overcome with weariness, and, even while trying to retain their interest in the scene, they fall asleep. Jesus has told them of His sufferings; He has taken them with Him that they might unite with Him in prayer; even now He is praying for them. The Saviour has seen the gloom of His disciples, and has longed to lighten their grief by an assurance that their faith has not been in vain. Not all, even of the twelve, can receive the revelation He desires to give. Only the three who are to witness His anguish in Gethsemane have been chosen to be with Him on the mount. Now the burden of His prayer is that they may be given a manifestation of the glory He had with the Father before the world was, that His kingdom may be revealed to human eyes, and that His disciples may be strengthened to behold it. He pleads that they may witness a manifestation of His divinity that will comfort them in the hour of His supreme agony with the knowledge that He is of a surety the Son of God and that His shameful death is a part of the plan of redemption.DA 421.1
His prayer is heard. While He is bowed in lowliness upon the stony ground, suddenly the heavens open, the golden gates of the city of God are thrown wide, and holy radiance descends upon the mount, enshrouding the Saviour’s form. Divinity from within flashes through humanity, and meets the glory coming from above. Arising from His prostrate position, Christ stands in godlike majesty. The soul agony is gone. His countenance now shines “as the sun,” and His garments are “white as the light.”DA 421.2
The disciples, awaking, behold the flood of glory that illuminates the mount. In fear and amazement they gaze upon the radiant form of their Master. As they become able to endure the wondrous light, they see that Jesus is not alone. Beside Him are two heavenly beings, in close converse with Him. They are Moses, who upon Sinai had talked with God; and Elijah, to whom the high privilege was given—granted to but one other of the sons of Adam—never to come under the power of death.DA 421.3
Upon Mount Pisgah fifteen centuries before, Moses had stood gazing upon the Land of Promise. But because of his sin at Meribah, it was not for him to enter there. Not for him was the joy of leading the host of Israel into the inheritance of their fathers. His agonized entreaty, “I pray Thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan, that goodly mountain, and Lebanon” (Deuteronomy 3:25), was refused. The hope that for forty years had lighted up the darkness of the desert wanderings must be denied. A wilderness grave was the goal of those years of toil and heart-burdening care. But He who is “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20), had in this measure answered His servant’s prayer. Moses passed under the dominion of death, but he was not to remain in the tomb. Christ Himself called him forth to life. Satan the tempter had claimed the body of Moses because of his sin; but Christ the Saviour brought him forth from the grave. Jude 9.DA 421.4
Moses upon the mount of transfiguration was a witness to Christ’s victory over sin and death. He represented those who shall come forth from the grave at the resurrection of the just. Elijah, who had been translated to heaven without seeing death, represented those who will be living upon the earth at Christ’s second coming, and who will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump;” when “this mortal must put on immortality,” and “this corruptible must put on incorruption.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. Jesus was clothed with the light of heaven, as He will appear when He shall come “the second time without sin unto salvation.” For He will come “in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Hebrews 9:28; Mark 8:38. The Saviour’s promise to the disciples was now fulfilled. Upon the mount the future kingdom of glory was represented in miniature,—Christ the King, Moses a representative of the risen saints, and Elijah of the translated ones.DA 422.1
The disciples do not yet comprehend the scene; but they rejoice that the patient Teacher, the meek and lowly One, who has wandered to and fro a helpless stranger, is honored by the favored ones of heaven. They believe that Elijah has come to announce the Messiah’s reign, and that the kingdom of Christ is about to be set up on the earth. The memory of their fear and disappointment they would banish forever. Here, where the glory of God is revealed, they long to tarry. Peter exclaims, “Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.” The disciples are confident that Moses and Elijah have been sent to protect their Master, and to establish His authority as king.DA 422.2
But before the crown must come the cross. Not the inauguration of Christ as king, but the decease to be accomplished at Jerusalem, is the subject of their conference with Jesus. Bearing the weakness of humanity, and burdened with its sorrow and sin, Jesus walked alone in the midst of men. As the darkness of the coming trial pressed upon Him, He was in loneliness of spirit, in a world that knew Him not. Even His loved disciples, absorbed in their own doubt and sorrow and ambitious hopes, had not comprehended the mystery of His mission. He had dwelt amid the love and fellowship of heaven; but in the world that He had created, He was in solitude. Now heaven had sent its messengers to Jesus; not angels, but men who had endured suffering and sorrow, and who could sympathize with the Saviour in the trial of His earthly life. Moses and Elijah had been colaborers with Christ. They had shared His longing for the salvation of men. Moses had pleaded for Israel: “Yet now, if Thou wilt forgive their sin—; and if not, blot me, I pray Thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written.” Exodus 32:32. Elijah had known loneliness of spirit, as for three years and a half of famine he had borne the burden of the nation’s hatred and its woe. Alone he had stood for God upon Mount Carmel. Alone he had fled to the desert in anguish and despair. These men, chosen above every angel around the throne, had come to commune with Jesus concerning the scenes of His suffering, and to comfort Him with the assurance of the sympathy of heaven. The hope of the world, the salvation of every human being, was the burden of their interview.DA 425.1
Through being overcome with sleep, the disciples heard little of what passed between Christ and the heavenly messengers. Failing to watch and pray, they had not received that which God desired to give them,—a knowledge of the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. They lost the blessing that might have been theirs through sharing His self-sacrifice. Slow of heart to believe were these disciples, little appreciative of the treasure with which Heaven sought to enrich them.DA 425.2
Yet they received great light. They were assured that all heaven knew of the sin of the Jewish nation in rejecting Christ. They were given a clearer insight into the work of the Redeemer. They saw with their eyes and heard with their ears things that were beyond the comprehension of man. They were “eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Peter 1:16), and they realized that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, to whom patriarchs and prophets had witnessed, and that He was recognized as such by the heavenly universe.DA 425.3
While they were still gazing on the scene upon the mount, “a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him.” As they beheld the cloud of glory, brighter than that which went before the tribes of Israel in the wilderness; as they heard the voice of God speak in awful majesty that caused the mountain to tremble, the disciples fell smitten to the earth. They remained prostrate, their faces hidden, till Jesus came near, and touched them, dispelling their fears with His well-known voice, “Arise, and be not afraid.” Venturing to lift up their eyes, they saw that the heavenly glory had passed away, the forms of Moses and Elijah had disappeared. They were upon the mount, alone with Jesus.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 46—Jesus Transfigured
HLv 284.1
Evening was drawing on as Jesus called to His side Peter, James, and John, and led them far up a lonely mountainside. They had spent the day traveling and teaching, and the climb added to their weariness. Soon the sun disappeared, and the travelers were wrapped in darkness. The gloom of their surroundings seemed in harmony with their sorrowful lives, around which clouds were gathering.HLv 284.2
The disciples did not venture to ask Christ whither He was going, or for what purpose. He had often spent entire nights in the mountains in prayer; He was at home with nature and enjoyed its quietude. Yet the disciples wondered why their Master should lead them up this toilsome ascent when they were weary and when He too needed rest.HLv 284.3
Presently Christ told them that they were to go no farther. Stepping a little aside from them, the Man of Sorrows poured out His supplication with tears. He prayed for strength to endure the test in behalf of humanity. He must gain a fresh hold on Omnipotence, for only thus could He contemplate the future. And He poured out His heart-longings for His disciples, that their faith might not fail. The dew was heavy on His bowed form, but He heeded it not. So the hours passed slowly by.HLv 284.4
At first the disciples united their prayers with His, but after a time they fell asleep. Jesus had told them of His sufferings, and had longed to lighten their grief by an assurance that their faith had not been in vain. Not all, even of the Twelve, could receive the revelation He desired to give. Only the three who were to witness His anguish in Gethsemane had been chosen to be with Him in the mount. Now His prayer was that they might witness a manifestation that would comfort them in the hour of His supreme agony with the knowledge that He was of a surety the Son of God and that His shameful death was part of the plan of redemption.HLv 285.1
His prayer was heard. Suddenly the heavens opened, and holy radiance descended upon the mount, enshrouding the Saviour’s form. Divinity from within flashed through humanity and met the glory coming from above. Arising from His prostrate position, Christ stood in godlike majesty. His countenance shone “as the sun,” and His garments were “white as light.”HLv 285.2
The disciples, awaking, gazed in fear and amazement on the radiant form of their Master. As they became able to endure the wondrous light, they saw beside Jesus two heavenly beings—Moses, who on Sinai had talked with God; and Elijah, to whom the high privilege was given never to come under the power of death.HLv 285.3
Because of his sin at Meribah, it was not for Moses to enter Canaan. Not for him was the joy of leading Israel into the inheritance of their fathers. A wilderness grave was the goal of forty years of toil and heart-burdening care. Moses passed under the dominion of death, but he did not remain in the tomb. Christ Himself called him forth to life. See Jude 9.HLv 285.4
Moses on the mount of transfiguration represented those who shall come forth from the grave at the resurrection of the just. Elijah, who had been translated to heaven without seeing death, represented those living at Christ’s second coming, who will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump.” 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. Jesus was clothed as He will appear when He shall come the second time “in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38; see Hebrews 9:28. Upon the mount the future kingdom of glory was represented in miniature—Christ the King, Moses a representative of the risen saints, and Elijah of the translated ones.HLv 286.1
The disciples rejoiced that the meek and lowly One, who had wandered to and fro a helpless stranger, was honored by the favored ones of heaven. They believed that Elijah had come to announce that the kingdom was about to be set up on earth. Here they longed to tarry. Peter exclaimed, “Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.” The disciples were confident that Moses and Elijah had been sent to protect their Master and establish His authority as king.HLv 286.2
But before the crown must come the cross. Bearing the weakness of humanity, burdened with its sorrow and sin, Jesus walked alone in the midst of men. As the darkness of the coming trial pressed upon Him, He was in loneliness of spirit, in a world that knew Him not. Even His loved disciples had not comprehended His mission. In the world He had created, He was in solitude. Now heaven had sent messengers; not angels, but men who had endured suffering and sorrow, and who could sympathize with the Saviour.HLv 286.3
Moses and Elijah had been colaborers with Christ. They had shared His longing for the salvation of men. Moses had pleaded for Israel: “Yet now, if Thou wilt forgive their sin—; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of Thy book which Thou hast written.” Exodus 32:32. Elijah had known loneliness of spirit, as for three years and a half of famine he had borne the nation’s hatred and woe. Alone he had fled to the desert in anguish and despair. These men had come to commune with Jesus concerning His suffering and to comfort Him. The salvation of every human being was the burden of their interview.HLv 286.4
Overcome with sleep, the disciples heard little of what passed between Christ and the heavenly messengers. They had not received what God desired to give them—a knowledge of the sufferings of Christ and the glory that should follow. They lost the blessing that might have been theirs. Yet they were assured that all heaven knew of the sin of the Jewish nation in rejecting Christ. They were given a clearer insight into the work of the Redeemer. They were “eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Peter 1:16) and realized that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, recognized as such by the heavenly universe.HLv 287.1
While they were still gazing upon the scene, “a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him.” As they heard the voice of God speak in awful majesty that caused the mountain to tremble, the disciples fell smitten to the earth, their faces hidden, till Jesus came near, dispelling their fears with His well-known voice, “Arise and be not afraid.” The heavenly glory had passed away, the forms of Moses and Elijah had disappeared. They were alone with Jesus.Luke 9:29-35
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 203, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 203, 1899, par. 11
“And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistening.” [Luke 9:29.] Divinity from within flashes through humanity, and meets the glory coming from above. The pearly gates of the city of God are thrown open, and the splendor of the eternal throne enshrouds the suppliant. Christ is irradiated. He rises from his prostrate position, and stands in Godlike majesty.14LtMs, Ms 203, 1899, par. 14
“And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias; not knowing what he said.” [Luke 9:33.] That Peter was still troubled in regard to Christ’s future is shown by these words. He proposed that Jesus remain at a safe distance from any earthly tribunal, thus escaping the death on the cross. He thinks that on this mountain, where they have been in such close communion with heaven, no earthly power can disturb them. But his words were scarcely uttered when a cloud of glory overshadowed them, “and there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son, hear him.” [Verse 35.] “And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.” [Matthew 17:6-9.]Luke 9:33
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 119, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 119, 1890, par. 3
The Lord is always ready to communicate divine instruction to those whose minds are open to receive it. He will be their present help in every time of need, to open the understanding to the Scriptures. This requires active, earnest piety and meditation, and communion with God and earnest labor. We can have seasons, as did the disciples upon the mount, when they could say, “It is good to be here; let us make three tabernacles, one for Thee and one for Moses and Elias.” [Luke 9:33.] But we must engage in conflict, stern struggles with temptation, endure hardships, face opposition, meet deception in our very midst, meet impiety and irreligion in the very ones who should be the most vitalized by the Spirit and love of Christ. We will meet stubbornness and have to deal with wrongdoers.Luke 9:35
Heaven
Chapter 11—Some Are Already in Heaven
Hvn 102.3
Elijah was a type of the saints who will be living on the earth at the time of the second advent of Christ and who will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump,” without tasting of death. 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. It was as a representative of those who shall be thus translated that Elijah, near the close of Christ’s earthly ministry, was permitted to stand with Moses by the side of the Saviour on the mount of transfiguration. In these glorified ones, the disciples saw in miniature a representation of the kingdom of the redeemed. They beheld Jesus clothed with the light of heaven; they heard the “voice out of the cloud” (Luke 9:35), acknowledging Him as the Son of God; they saw Moses, representing those who will be raised from the dead at the time of the second advent; and there also stood Elijah, representing those who at the close of earth’s history will be changed from mortal to immortal and be translated to heaven without seeing death.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 17—The Call of Elisha
PK 227.2
Elijah was a type of the saints who will be living on the earth at the time of the second advent of Christ and who will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump,” without tasting of death. 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. It was as a representative of those who shall be thus translated that Elijah, near the close of Christ’s earthly ministry, was permitted to stand with Moses by the side of the Saviour on the mount of transfiguration. In these glorified ones, the disciples saw in miniature a representation of the kingdom of the redeemed. They beheld Jesus clothed with the light of heaven; they heard the “voice out of the cloud” (Luke 9:35), acknowledging Him as the Son of God; they saw Moses, representing those who will be raised from the dead at the time of the second advent; and there also stood Elijah, representing those who at the close of earth’s history will be changed from mortal to immortal and be translated to heaven without seeing death.From Splendor to Shadow
Many Will Be Translated Without Tasting Death
SS 121.5
Elijah was a type of the saints who will be living at the time of the second advent of Christ and who will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump,” without tasting death. 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. As a representative of those who shall be thus translated, Elijah was permitted to stand with Moses by the side of the Saviour on the mount of transfiguration. The disciples saw Jesus clothed with the light of heaven; they heard the “voice out of the cloud” (Luke 9:35), acknowledging Him as the Son of God. They saw Moses, representing those who will be raised from the dead at the second advent. And there also stood Elijah, representing those who at the close of earth’s history will be changed from mortal to immortal, translated to heaven without seeing death.Luke 9:37-45
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 47—Ministry
DA 426.1
The entire night had been passed in the mountain; and as the sun arose, Jesus and His disciples descended to the plain. Absorbed in thought, the disciples were awed and silent. Even Peter had not a word to say. Gladly would they have lingered in that holy place which had been touched with the light of heaven, and where the Son of God had manifested His glory; but there was work to be done for the people, who were already searching far and near for Jesus.DA 426.2
At the foot of the mountain a large company had gathered, led hither by the disciples who had remained behind, but who knew whither Jesus had resorted. As the Saviour drew near, He charged His three companions to keep silence concerning what they had witnessed, saying, “Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.” The revelation made to the disciples was to be pondered in their own hearts, not to be published abroad. To relate it to the multitudes would excite only ridicule or idle wonder. And even the nine apostles would not understand the scene until after Christ had risen from the dead. How slow of comprehension even the three favored disciples were, is seen in the fact that notwithstanding all that Christ had said of what was before Him, they queried among themselves what the rising from the dead should mean. Yet they asked no explanation from Jesus. His words in regard to the future had filled them with sorrow; they sought no further revelation concerning that which they were fain to believe might never come to pass.DA 427.1
As the people on the plain caught sight of Jesus, they ran to meet Him, greeting Him with expressions of reverence and joy. Yet His quick eye discerned that they were in great perplexity. The disciples appeared troubled. A circumstance had just occurred that had caused them bitter disappointment and humiliation.DA 427.2
While they were waiting at the foot of the mountain, a father had brought to them his son, to be delivered from a dumb spirit that tormented him. Authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, had been conferred on the disciples when Jesus sent out the twelve to preach through Galilee. As they went forth strong in faith, the evil spirits had obeyed their word. Now in the name of Christ they commanded the torturing spirit to leave his victim; but the demon only mocked them by a fresh display of his power. The disciples, unable to account for their defeat, felt that they were bringing dishonor upon themselves and their Master. And in the crowd there were scribes who made the most of this opportunity to humiliate them. Pressing around the disciples, they plied them with questions, seeking to prove that they and their Master were deceivers. Here, the rabbis triumphantly declared, was an evil spirit that neither the disciples nor Christ Himself could conquer. The people were inclined to side with the scribes, and a feeling of contempt and scorn pervaded the crowd.DA 427.3
But suddenly the accusations ceased. Jesus and the three disciples were seen approaching, and with a quick revulsion of feeling the people turned to meet them. The night of communion with the heavenly glory had left its trace upon the Saviour and His companions. Upon their countenances was a light that awed the beholders. The scribes drew back in fear, while the people welcomed Jesus.DA 427.4
As if He had been a witness of all that had occurred, the Saviour came to the scene of conflict, and fixing His gaze upon the scribes inquired, “What question ye with them?”DA 427.5
But the voices so bold and defiant before were now silent. A hush had fallen upon the entire company. Now the afflicted father made his way through the crowd, and falling at the feet of Jesus, poured out the story of his trouble and disappointment.DA 428.1
“Master,” he said, “I have brought unto Thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit; and wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: ... and I spake to Thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.”DA 428.2
Jesus looked about Him upon the awe-stricken multitude, the caviling scribes, the perplexed disciples. He read the unbelief in every heart; and in a voice filled with sorrow He exclaimed, “O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you?” Then He bade the distressed father, “Bring thy son hither.”DA 428.3
The boy was brought, and as the Saviour’s eyes fell upon him, the evil spirit cast him to the ground in convulsions of agony. He lay wallowing and foaming, rending the air with unearthly shrieks.DA 428.4
Again the Prince of life and the prince of the powers of darkness had met on the field of battle,—Christ in fulfillment of His mission to “preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18), Satan seeking to hold his victim under his control. Angels of light and the hosts of evil angels, unseen, were pressing near to behold the conflict. For a moment, Jesus permitted the evil spirit to display his power, that the beholders might comprehend the deliverance about to be wrought.DA 428.5
The multitude looked on with bated breath, the father in an agony of hope and fear. Jesus asked, “How long is it ago since this came unto him?” The father told the story of long years of suffering, and then, as if he could endure no more, exclaimed, “If Thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” “If Thou canst!” Even now the father questioned the power of Christ.DA 428.6
Jesus answers, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” There is no lack of power on the part of Christ; the healing of the son depends upon the father’s faith. With a burst of tears, realizing his own weakness, the father casts himself upon Christ’s mercy, with the cry, “Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief.”DA 428.7
Jesus turns to the suffering one, and says, “Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.” There is a cry, an agonized struggle. The demon, in passing, seems about to rend the life from his victim. Then the boy lies motionless, and apparently lifeless. The multitude whisper, “He is dead.” But Jesus takes him by the hand, and lifting him up, presents him, in perfect soundness of mind and body, to his father. Father and son praise the name of their Deliverer. The multitude are “amazed at the mighty power of God,” while the scribes, defeated and crestfallen, turn sullenly away.DA 429.1
“If Thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” How many a sin-burdened soul has echoed that prayer. And to all, the pitying Saviour’s answer is, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” It is faith that connects us with heaven, and brings us strength for coping with the powers of darkness. In Christ, God has provided means for subduing every sinful trait, and resisting every temptation, however strong. But many feel that they lack faith, and therefore they remain away from Christ. Let these souls, in their helpless unworthiness, cast themselves upon the mercy of their compassionate Saviour. Look not to self, but to Christ. He who healed the sick and cast out demons when He walked among men is the same mighty Redeemer today. Faith comes by the word of God. Then grasp His promise, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. Cast yourself at His feet with the cry, “Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief.” You can never perish while you do this—never.DA 429.2
In a brief space of time the favored disciples have beheld the extreme of glory and of humiliation. They have seen humanity as transfigured into the image of God, and as debased into the likeness of Satan. From the mountain where He has talked with the heavenly messengers, and has been proclaimed the Son of God by the voice from the radiant glory, they have seen Jesus descend to meet that most distressing and revolting spectacle, the maniac boy, with distorted countenance, gnashing his teeth in spasms of agony that no human power could relieve. And this mighty Redeemer, who but a few hours before stood glorified before His wondering disciples, stoops to lift the victim of Satan from the earth where he is wallowing, and in health of mind and body restores him to his father and his home.DA 429.3
It was an object lesson of redemption,—the Divine One from the Father’s glory stooping to save the lost. It represented also the disciples’ mission. Not alone upon the mountaintop with Jesus, in hours of spiritual illumination, is the life of Christ’s servants to be spent. There is work for them down in the plain. Souls whom Satan has enslaved are waiting for the word of faith and prayer to set them free.DA 429.4
The nine disciples were yet pondering upon the bitter fact of their own failure; and when Jesus was once more alone with them, they questioned, “Why could not we cast him out?” Jesus answered them, “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” Their unbelief, that shut them out from deeper sympathy with Christ, and the carelessness with which they regarded the sacred work committed to them, had caused their failure in the conflict with the powers of darkness.DA 431.1
The words of Christ pointing to His death had brought sadness and doubt. And the selection of the three disciples to accompany Jesus to the mountain had excited the jealousy of the nine. Instead of strengthening their faith by prayer and meditation on the words of Christ, they had been dwelling on their discouragements and personal grievances. In this state of darkness they had undertaken the conflict with Satan.DA 431.2
In order to succeed in such a conflict they must come to the work in a different spirit. Their faith must be strengthened by fervent prayer and fasting, and humiliation of heart. They must be emptied of self, and be filled with the Spirit and power of God. Earnest, persevering supplication to God in faith—faith that leads to entire dependence upon God, and unreserved consecration to His work—can alone avail to bring men the Holy Spirit’s aid in the battle against principalities and powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, and wicked spirits in high places.DA 431.3
“If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed,” said Jesus, “ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove.” Though the grain of mustard seed is so small, it contains that same mysterious life principle which produces growth in the loftiest tree. When the mustard seed is cast into the ground, the tiny germ lays hold of every element that God has provided for its nutriment, and it speedily develops a sturdy growth. If you have faith like this, you will lay hold upon God’s word, and upon all the helpful agencies He has appointed. Thus your faith will strengthen, and will bring to your aid the power of heaven. The obstacles that are piled by Satan across your path, though apparently as insurmountable as the eternal hills, shall disappear before the demand of faith. “Nothing shall be impossible unto you.”From Heaven With Love
Chapter 47—A Battle With Satan’s Spirits
HLv 288.1
As the sun arose, Jesus and His disciples descended to the plain. Absorbed in thought, the disciples were awed and silent. Gladly they would have lingered in that holy place, but there was work to be done.HLv 288.2
At the foot of the mountain a large company had gathered. As the Saviour drew near, He charged His three companions to keep silence concerning what they had witnessed, saying, “Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.” To relate the revelation to the multitudes would excite only ridicule or idle wonder. How slow of comprehension even the three favored disciples were, is seen in that they queried among themselves what the rising from the dead should mean. Yet they asked no explanation from Jesus.HLv 288.3
As the people on the plain caught sight of Jesus, they ran to greet Him. Yet His quick eye discerned that a circumstance had occurred that had caused the disciples bitter disappointment and humiliation. A father had brought his son to be delivered from a dumb spirit that tormented him. Authority to cast out unclean spirits had been conferred on the disciples when Jesus sent them to preach through Galilee. As they went forth strong in faith, the evil spirits had obeyed their word. Now in the name of Christ they commanded the torturing spirit to leave his victim, but the demon only mocked them. The disciples, unable to account for their defeat, felt they were bringing dishonor on themselves and their Master. And in the crowd were scribes seeking to prove that they and their Master were deceivers. Here was an evil spirit that neither the disciples nor Christ Himself could conquer! A feeling of contempt and scorn pervaded the crowd.HLv 289.1
But suddenly Jesus and the three disciples were seen approaching. The night of communion with heavenly glory had left on their countenances a light that awed the beholders. The Saviour came to the scene of conflict, and fixing His gaze on the scribes inquired, “What question ye with them?”HLv 289.2
But the voices so bold and defiant before were silent. Now the afflicted father made his way through the crowd, and falling at the feet of Jesus, poured out the story of his trouble and disappointment.HLv 289.3
“Master,” he said, “I have brought unto Thee my son which hath a dumb spirit; and wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him: ... and I spake to Thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.”HLv 289.4
Jesus read the unbelief in every heart, and exclaimed, “O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you?” Then He bade the distressed father, “Bring thy son hither.”HLv 289.5
The boy was brought, and the evil spirit cast him to the ground in convulsions of agony. He lay wallowing and foaming, rending the air with unearthly shrieks.HLv 289.6
Again the Prince of life and the prince of darkness met on the field of battle—Christ to “preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised” (Luke 4:18), Satan seeking to hold his victim under his control. For a moment, Jesus permitted the evil spirit to display his power.HLv 289.7
Jesus asked, “How long is it ago since this came unto him?” The father told the story of long years of suffering, and then, as if he could endure no more, exclaimed, “If Thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” “If Thou canst!” Even now the father questioned the power of Christ.HLv 289.8
Jesus answered, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” With a burst of tears, realizing his own weakness, the father cast himself on Christ’s mercy: “I believe; help Thou mine unbelief.”HLv 290.1
Jesus turned to the suffering one and said: “Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.” There was a cry, an agonized struggle. Then the boy lay motionless, apparently lifeless. The multitude whispered, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifting him up, presented him in perfect soundness of mind and body to his father. Father and son praised their Deliverer, while the scribes, defeated and crestfallen, turned sullenly away.HLv 290.3
In a brief space of time the favored disciples had seen humanity as transfigured into the image of God, and as debased into the likeness of Satan. They had seen Jesus proclaimed the Son of God, and had seen Him meet the maniac boy gnashing his teeth in agony. This mighty Redeemer, who a few hours before stood glorified, stooped to lift the victim of Satan from the earth, and restore him to his father and home.HLv 290.4
It was an object lesson of redemption—the Divine One stooping to save the lost. It represented also the disciples’ mission. Not alone on the mountaintop with Jesus is the life of Christ’s servants to be spent. Down in the plain, souls whom Satan has enslaved are waiting for the word of faith and prayer to set them free.HLv 291.1
When Jesus was once more alone with the nine disciples, they questioned, “Why could not we cast him out?” Jesus answered, “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” Their unbelief, that shut them out from deeper sympathy with Christ, and the carelessness with which they regarded the sacred work committed to them had caused their failure. Jealous of the three disciples selected to accompany Jesus to the mountain, they had been dwelling on their discouragements and personal grievances. In this state of darkness they had undertaken the conflict with Satan.HLv 291.2
In order to succeed in such a conflict, their faith must be strengthened by fervent prayer, fasting, and humiliation of heart. They must be emptied of self and be filled with the Spirit and power of God. Faith that leads to entire dependence on God and unreserved consecration to His work can alone bring men the Holy Spirit’s aid in the battle against wicked spirits.HLv 291.3
Lay hold on God’s word and all the helpful agencies He has appointed. Thus your faith will strengthen. The obstacles piled by Satan across your path, apparently as insurmountable as the eternal hills, shall disappear before the demand of faith. “Nothing shall be impossible unto you.”From Heaven With Love
Faith Connects Us With Heaven
HLv 290.2
“If Thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” How many a sin-burdened soul has echoed that prayer. And to all the answer is, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” In Christ, God has provided means for subduing every sinful trait and resisting every temptation, however strong. But many feel that they lack faith, and therefore they remain away from Christ. Let these souls look not to self, but to Christ. Faith comes by the Word of God. Grasp His promise, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. Cast yourself at His feet with the cry, “I believe; help Thou mine unbelief.” You can never perish while you do this—never.Luke 9:46-48
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?
DA 432.1
On returning to Capernaum, Jesus did not repair to the well-known resorts where He had taught the people, but with His disciples quietly sought the house that was to be His temporary home. During the remainder of His stay in Galilee it was His object to instruct the disciples rather than to labor for the multitudes.DA 432.2
On the journey through Galilee, Christ had again tried to prepare the minds of His disciples for the scenes before Him. He told them that He was to go up to Jerusalem to be put to death and to rise again. And He added the strange and solemn announcement that He was to be betrayed into the hands of His enemies. The disciples did not even now comprehend His words. Although the shadow of a great sorrow fell upon them, a spirit of rivalry found a place in their hearts. They disputed among themselves which should be accounted greatest in the kingdom. This strife they thought to conceal from Jesus, and they did not, as usual, press close to His side, but loitered behind, so that He was in advance of them as they entered Capernaum. Jesus read their thoughts, and He longed to counsel and instruct them. But for this He awaited a quiet hour, when their hearts should be open to receive His words.DA 432.3
Soon after they reached the town, the collector of the temple revenue came to Peter with the question, “Doth not your Master pay tribute?” This tribute was not a civil tax, but a religious contribution, which every Jew was required to pay annually for the support of the temple. A refusal to pay the tribute would be regarded as disloyalty to the temple,—in the estimation of the rabbis a most grievous sin. The Saviour’s attitude toward the rabbinical laws, and His plain reproofs to the defenders of tradition, afforded a pretext for the charge that He was seeking to overthrow the temple service. Now His enemies saw an opportunity of casting discredit upon Him. In the collector of the tribute they found a ready ally.DA 433.1
Peter saw in the collector’s question an insinuation touching Christ’s loyalty to the temple. Zealous for his Master’s honor, he hastily answered, without consulting Him, that Jesus would pay the tribute.DA 433.2
But Peter only partially comprehended the purpose of his questioner. There were some classes who were held to be exempt from the payment of the tribute. In the time of Moses, when the Levites were set apart for the service of the sanctuary, they were given no inheritance among the people. The Lord said, “Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the Lord is his inheritance.” Deuteronomy 10:9. In the days of Christ the priests and Levites were still regarded as especially devoted to the temple, and were not required to make the annual contribution for its support. Prophets also were exempted from this payment. In requiring the tribute from Jesus, the rabbis were setting aside His claim as a prophet or teacher, and were dealing with Him as with any commonplace person. A refusal on His part to pay the tribute would be represented as disloyalty to the temple; while, on the other hand, the payment of it would be taken as justifying their rejection of Him as a prophet.DA 433.3
Only a little before, Peter had acknowledged Jesus as the Son of God; but he now missed an opportunity of setting forth the character of his Master. By his answer to the collector, that Jesus would pay the tribute, he had virtually sanctioned the false conception of Him to which the priests and rulers were trying to give currency.DA 433.4
When Peter entered the house, the Saviour made no reference to what had taken place, but inquired, “What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?” Peter answered, “Of strangers.” And Jesus said, “Then are the children free.” While the people of a country are taxed for the maintenance of their king, the monarch’s own children are exempt. So Israel, the professed people of God, were required to maintain His service; but Jesus, the Son of God, was under no such obligation. If priests and Levites were exempt because of their connection with the temple, how much more He to whom the temple was His Father’s house.DA 434.1
If Jesus had paid the tribute without a protest, He would virtually have acknowledged the justice of the claim, and would thus have denied His divinity. But while He saw good to meet the demand, He denied the claim upon which it was based. In providing for the payment of the tribute He gave evidence of His divine character. It was made manifest that He was one with God, and therefore was not under tribute as a mere subject of the kingdom.DA 434.2
“Go thou to the sea,” He directed Peter, “and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for Me and thee.”DA 434.3
Though He had clothed His divinity with humanity, in this miracle He revealed His glory. It was evident that this was He who through David had declared, “Every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains; and the wild beasts of the field are Mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof.” Psalm 50:10-12.DA 434.4
While Jesus made it plain that He was under no obligation to pay the tribute, He entered into no controversy with the Jews in regard to the matter; for they would have misinterpreted His words, and turned them against Him. Lest He should give offense by withholding the tribute, He did that which He could not justly be required to do. This lesson would be of great value to His disciples. Marked changes were soon to take place in their relation to the temple service, and Christ taught them not to place themselves needlessly in antagonism to established order. So far as possible, they were to avoid giving occasion for misinterpretation of their faith. While Christians are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, they should avoid controversy whenever it is possible to do so.DA 434.5
When Christ and the disciples were alone in the house, while Peter was gone to the sea, Jesus called the others to Him, and asked, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?” The presence of Jesus, and His question, put the matter in an entirely different light from that in which it had appeared to them while they were contending by the way. Shame and self-condemnation kept them silent. Jesus had told them that He was to die for their sake, and their selfish ambition was in painful contrast to His unselfish love.DA 435.1
When Jesus told them that He was to be put to death and to rise again, He was trying to draw them into conversation in regard to the great test of their faith. Had they been ready to receive what He desired to make known to them, they would have been saved bitter anguish and despair. His words would have brought consolation in the hour of bereavement and disappointment. But although He had spoken so plainly of what awaited Him, His mention of the fact that He was soon to go to Jerusalem again kindled their hope that the kingdom was about to be set up. This had led to questioning as to who should fill the highest offices. On Peter’s return from the sea, the disciples told him of the Saviour’s question, and at last one ventured to ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”DA 435.2
The Saviour gathered His disciples about Him, and said to them, “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” There was in these words a solemnity and impressiveness which the disciples were far from comprehending. That which Christ discerned they could not see. They did not understand the nature of Christ’s kingdom, and this ignorance was the apparent cause of their contention. But the real cause lay deeper. By explaining the nature of the kingdom, Christ might for the time have quelled their strife; but this would not have touched the underlying cause. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question of precedence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been brought to the church after Christ’s departure. The strife for the highest place was the outworking of that same spirit which was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above, and which had brought Christ from heaven to die. There rose up before Him a vision of Lucifer, the “son of the morning,” in glory surpassing all the angels that surround the throne, and united in closest ties to the Son of God. Lucifer had said, “I will be like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:12, 14); and the desire for self-exaltation had brought strife into the heavenly courts, and had banished a multitude of the hosts of God. Had Lucifer really desired to be like the Most High, he would never have deserted his appointed place in heaven; for the spirit of the Most High is manifested in unselfish ministry. Lucifer desired God’s power, but not His character. He sought for himself the highest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus alienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable. Dominion becomes the prize of the strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which he himself may climb to a higher place.DA 436.1
While Lucifer counted it a thing to be grasped to be equal with God, Christ, the Exalted One, “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:7, 8. Now the cross was just before Him; and His own disciples were so filled with self-seeking—the very principle of Satan’s kingdom—that they could not enter into sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for them.DA 436.2
Very tenderly, yet with solemn emphasis, Jesus tried to correct the evil. He showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven, and in what true greatness consists, as estimated by the standard of the courts above. Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of themselves, and of the rewards they were to have, rather than how they were to render back to God the gifts they had received. They would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with the ranks of Satan.DA 436.3
Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who, like John the Baptist, takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. The heavenly intelligences can co-operate with him who is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save souls. He who feels most deeply his need of divine aid will plead for it; and the Holy Spirit will give unto him glimpses of Jesus that will strengthen and uplift the soul. From communion with Christ he will go forth to work for those who are perishing in their sins. He is anointed for his mission; and he succeeds where many of the learned and intellectually wise would fail.DA 436.4
But when men exalt themselves, feeling that they are a necessity for the success of God’s great plan, the Lord causes them to be set aside. It is made evident that the Lord is not dependent upon them. The work does not stop because of their removal from it, but goes forward with greater power.DA 437.1
It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the nature of His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart that would bring them into harmony with its principles. Calling a little child to Him, Jesus set him in the midst of them; then tenderly folding the little one in His arms He said, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” The simplicity, the self-forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the attributes that Heaven values. These are the characteristics of real greatness.DA 437.2
Again Jesus explained to the disciples that His kingdom is not characterized by earthly dignity and display. At the feet of Jesus all these distinctions are forgotten. The rich and the poor, the learned and the ignorant, meet together, with no thought of caste or worldly preeminence. All meet as blood-bought souls, alike dependent upon One who has redeemed them to God.DA 437.3
The sincere, contrite soul is precious in the sight of God. He places His own signet upon men, not by their rank, not by their wealth, not by their intellectual greatness, but by their oneness with Christ. The Lord of glory is satisfied with those who are meek and lowly in heart. “Thou hast also given me,” said David, “the shield of Thy salvation: ... and Thy gentleness”—as an element in the human character—“hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35.DA 437.4
“Whosoever shall receive one of such children in My name,” said Jesus, “receiveth Me: and whosoever shall receive Me, receiveth not Me, but Him that sent Me.” “Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool: ... but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My word.” Isaiah 66:1, 2.DA 437.5
The Saviour’s words awakened in the disciples a feeling of self-distrust. No one had been specially pointed out in the reply; but John was led to question whether in one case his action had been right. With the spirit of a child he laid the matter before Jesus. “Master,” he said, “we saw one casting out devils in Thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”DA 437.6
James and John had thought that in checking this man they had had in view their Lord’s honor; they began to see that they were jealous for their own. They acknowledged their error, and accepted the reproof of Jesus, “Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My name, that can lightly speak evil of Me.” None who showed themselves in any way friendly to Christ were to be repulsed. There were many who had been deeply moved by the character and the work of Christ, and whose hearts were opening to Him in faith; and the disciples, who could not read motives, must be careful not to discourage these souls. When Jesus was no longer personally among them, and the work was left in their hands, they must not indulge a narrow, exclusive spirit, but manifest the same far-reaching sympathy which they had seen in their Master.DA 438.1
The fact that one does not in all things conform to our personal ideas or opinions will not justify us in forbidding him to labor for God. Christ is the Great Teacher; we are not to judge or to command, but in humility each is to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. Every soul whom God has made willing is a channel through which Christ will reveal His pardoning love. How careful we should be lest we discourage one of God’s light bearers, and thus intercept the rays that He would have shine to the world!DA 438.2
Harshness or coldness shown by a disciple toward one whom Christ was drawing—such an act as that of John in forbidding one to work miracles in Christ’s name—might result in turning the feet into the path of the enemy, and causing the loss of a soul. Rather than for one to do this, said Jesus, “it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.” And He added, “If thy hand cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life maimed, rather than having thy two hands to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire. And if thy foot cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life halt, rather than having thy two feet to be cast into hell.” Mark 9:43-45, R. V.DA 438.3
Why this earnest language, than which none can be stronger? Because “the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” Shall His disciples show less regard for the souls of their fellow men than the Majesty of heaven has shown? Every soul has cost an infinite price, and how terrible is the sin of turning one soul away from Christ, so that for him the Saviour’s love and humiliation and agony shall have been in vain.DA 438.4
“Woe unto the world because of occasions of stumbling! for it must needs be that the occasions come.” Matthew 18:7, R. V. The world, inspired by Satan, will surely oppose the followers of Christ, and seek to destroy their faith; but woe to him who has taken Christ’s name, and yet is found doing this work. Our Lord is put to shame by those who claim to serve Him, but who misrepresent His character; and multitudes are deceived, and led into false paths.DA 439.1
Any habit or practice that would lead into sin, and bring dishonor upon Christ, would better be put away, whatever the sacrifice. That which dishonors God cannot benefit the soul. The blessing of heaven cannot attend any man in violating the eternal principles of right. And one sin cherished is sufficient to work the degradation of the character, and to mislead others. If the foot or the hand would be cut off, or even the eye would be plucked out, to save the body from death, how much more earnest should we be to put away sin, that brings death to the soul!DA 439.2
In the ritual service, salt was added to every sacrifice. This, like the offering of incense, signified that only the righteousness of Christ could make the service acceptable to God. Referring to this practice, Jesus said, “Every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.” “Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” All who would present themselves “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God” (Romans 12:1), must receive the saving salt, the righteousness of our Saviour. Then they become “the salt of the earth,” restraining evil among men, as salt preserves from corruption. Matthew 5:13. But if the salt has lost its savor; if there is only a profession of godliness, without the love of Christ, there is no power for good. The life can exert no saving influence upon the world. Your energy and efficiency in the upbuilding of My kingdom, Jesus says, depend upon your receiving of My Spirit. You must be partakers of My grace, in order to be a savor of life unto life. Then there will be no rivalry, no self-seeking, no desire for the highest place. You will have that love which seeks not her own, but another’s wealth.DA 439.3
Let the repenting sinner fix his eyes upon “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29); and by beholding, he becomes changed. His fear is turned to joy, his doubts to hope. Gratitude springs up. The stony heart is broken. A tide of love sweeps into the soul. Christ is in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life. When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to save the lost, slighted, scorned, derided, driven from city to city till His mission was accomplished; when we behold Him in Gethsemane, sweating great drops of blood, and on the cross dying in agony,—when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be recognized. Looking unto Jesus, we shall be ashamed of our coldness, our lethargy, our self-seeking. We shall be willing to be anything or nothing, so that we may do heart service for the Master. We shall rejoice to bear the cross after Jesus, to endure trial, shame, or persecution for His dear sake.DA 440.1
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1. No soul who believes in Christ, though his faith may be weak, and his steps wavering as those of a little child, is to be lightly esteemed. By all that has given us advantage over another,—be it education and refinement, nobility of character, Christian training, religious experience,—we are in debt to those less favored; and, so far as lies in our power, we are to minister unto them. If we are strong, we are to stay up the hands of the weak. Angels of glory, that do always behold the face of the Father in heaven, joy in ministering to His little ones. Trembling souls, who have many objectionable traits of character, are their special charge. Angels are ever present where they are most needed, with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging. And in this ministry Christ’s true followers will co-operate.DA 440.2
If one of these little ones shall be overcome, and commit a wrong against you, then it is your work to seek his restoration. Do not wait for him to make the first effort for reconciliation. “How think ye?” said Jesus; “if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.”DA 440.3
In the spirit of meekness, “considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted,” (Galatians 6:1), go to the erring one, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Do not put him to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor upon Christ by making public the sin or error of one who bears His name. Often the truth must be plainly spoken to the erring; he must be led to see his error, that he may reform. But you are not to judge or to condemn. Make no attempt at self-justification. Let all your effort be for his recovery. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch, the finest sensibility. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. With pitying tenderness, let brother deal with brother, knowing that if you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.DA 441.1
But even this effort may be unavailing. Then, said Jesus, “take with thee one or two more.” It may be that their united influence will prevail where that of the first was unsuccessful. Not being parties to the trouble, they will be more likely to act impartially, and this fact will give their counsel greater weight with the erring one.DA 441.2
If he will not hear them, then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought before the whole body of believers. Let the members of the church, as the representatives of Christ, unite in prayer and loving entreaty that the offender may be restored. The Holy Spirit will speak through His servants, pleading with the wanderer to return to God. Paul the apostle, speaking by inspiration, says, “As though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20. He who rejects this united overture has broken the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself from the fellowship of the church. Henceforth, said Jesus, “let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” But he is not to be regarded as cut off from the mercy of God. Let him not be despised or neglected by his former brethren, but be treated with tenderness and compassion, as one of the lost sheep that Christ is still seeking to bring to His fold.DA 441.3
Christ’s instruction as to the treatment of the erring repeats in more specific form the teaching given to Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in anywise rebuke thy neighbor, that thou bear not sin for him.” Leviticus 19:17, margin. That is, if one neglects the duty Christ has enjoined, of trying to restore those who are in error and sin, he becomes a partaker in the sin. For evils that we might have checked, we are just as responsible as if we were guilty of the acts ourselves.DA 441.4
But it is to the wrongdoer himself that we are to present the wrong. We are not to make it a matter of comment and criticism among ourselves; nor even after it is told to the church, are we at liberty to repeat it to others. A knowledge of the faults of Christians will be only a cause of stumbling to the unbelieving world; and by dwelling upon these things, we ourselves can receive only harm; for it is by beholding that we become changed. While we seek to correct the errors of a brother, the Spirit of Christ will lead us to shield him, as far as possible, from the criticism of even his own brethren, and how much more from the censure of the unbelieving world. We ourselves are erring, and need Christ’s pity and forgiveness, and just as we wish Him to deal with us, He bids us deal with one another.DA 442.1
“Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” You are acting as the ambassadors of heaven, and the issues of your work are for eternity.DA 442.2
But we are not to bear this great responsibility alone. Wherever His word is obeyed with a sincere heart, there Christ abides. Not only is He present in the assemblies of the church, but wherever disciples, however few, meet in His name, there also He will be. And He says, “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.”DA 442.3
Jesus says, “My Father which is in heaven,” as reminding His disciples that while by His humanity He is linked with them, a sharer in their trials, and sympathizing with them in their sufferings, by His divinity He is connected with the throne of the Infinite. Wonderful assurance! The heavenly intelligences unite with men in sympathy and labor for the saving of that which was lost. And all the power of heaven is brought to combine with human ability in drawing souls to Christ.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?
HLv 292.1
Returning to Capernaum, Jesus quietly sought the house that was to be His temporary home. During the remainder of His stay in Galilee, it was His object to instruct the disciples rather than labor for the multitudes.HLv 292.2
Christ had again told them that He was to be put to death and to rise again. And He added that He was to be betrayed into the hands of His enemies. The disciples did not even now comprehend His words. Although the shadow of a great sorrow fell upon them, they disputed among themselves which should be greatest in the kingdom. This strife they thought to conceal from Jesus. Jesus read their thoughts and longed to counsel them, but for this He awaited a quiet hour when their hearts should be open to receive His words.HLv 292.3
Soon after they reached town the collector of the temple revenue questioned Peter, “Doth not your Master pay tribute?” This religious contribution every Jew was required to pay annually. A refusal to pay would be, in the estimation of the rabbis, a grievous sin. Now His enemies saw an opportunity of casting discredit upon Him. In the collector of the tribute they found a ready ally.HLv 292.4
Zealous for his Master’s honor, Peter hastily answered that Jesus would pay the tribute. But some classes were exempt from payment of the tribute. The priests and Levites, still regarded as especially devoted to the temple, were not required to make the annual contribution for its support. Prophets also were exempt. In requiring tribute from Jesus, the rabbis were setting aside His claim as a prophet and were dealing with Him as with any commonplace person. A refusal to pay would be represented as disloyalty to the temple; on the other hand, payment would be taken as justifying their rejection of Him as a prophet. By his answer to the collector, Peter virtually sanctioned the false conception to which the priests and rulers were trying to give currency.HLv 293.1
When Peter entered the house, the Saviour made no reference to what had taken place, but inquired, “What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?” Peter answered, “Of strangers.” And Jesus said, “Then are the children free.” While the people are taxed for the maintenance of their king, the monarch’s own children are exempt. So Israel, the people of God, were required to maintain His service; but Jesus, the Son of God, was under no such obligation.HLv 293.2
If Jesus had paid the tribute without a protest, He would virtually have acknowledged the justice of the claim and thus denied His divinity. But He denied the claim on which it was based. In providing for the payment, He gave evidence of His divine character, and therefore was not under tribute as a mere subject of the kingdom.HLv 293.3
“Go thou to the sea,” He directed Peter, “and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for Me and thee.”HLv 293.4
While Jesus made it plain that He was under no obligation to pay the tribute, He entered into no controversy in regard to the matter. Lest He should give offense by withholding the tribute, He did that which He could not justly be required to do. This lesson would be of great value to His disciples. They were not to place themselves needlessly in antagonism to established order. Christians are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, but they should avoid controversy whenever possible. While Peter was gone to the sea, Jesus called the other disciples to Him, and asked, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?” Shame and self-condemnation kept them silent. Jesus had told them that He was to die for their sake, and their selfish ambition was in painful contrast to His unselfish love. But although He had spoken so plainly of what awaited Him, His mention of the fact that He was soon to go to Jerusalem again kindled their hope that the kingdom was about to be set up. This had led to questioning as to who should fill the highest offices. At last one ventured to ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”HLv 294.1
The Saviour said to them, “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” They did not understand the nature of Christ’s kingdom, and this was the apparent cause of their contention. But the real cause lay deeper. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question of precedence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been brought to the church after Christ’s departure. The strife for the highest place was the outworking of that same spirit which was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above and which had brought Christ from heaven to die. There rose up before Him a vision of Lucifer, who had said, “I will be like the Most High.” Isaiah 14:14. The desire for self-exaltation had brought strife into the heavenly courts. Lucifer desired God’s power, but not His character. He sought the highest place, and every being actuated by his spirit will do the same. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which to climb to a higher place.HLv 295.1
While Lucifer sought to be equal with God, Christ “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:7, 8. Now the cross was just before Him; and His own disciples were so filled with self-seeking that they could not enter into sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for them.HLv 295.2
Jesus tried to correct the evil. He showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven, and in what true greatness consists. Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of themselves, and of the rewards they were to have. They would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with the ranks of Satan.HLv 295.3
Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. He who feels his need of divine aid will plead for it. From communion with Christ he will go forth to work, anointed for his mission, and he succeeds where many of the intellectually wise would fail.HLv 295.4
But when men exalt themselves, feeling that they are a necessity for the success of God’s plan, the Lord causes them to be set aside. The work does not stop, but goes forward with greater power.HLv 295.5
It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the nature of His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart. Calling a little child to Him, Jesus set him in the midst of them; then tenderly folding the little one in His arms, He said, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” The simplicity, the self-forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the attributes that Heaven values, the characteristics of real greatness. At the feet of Jesus earthly dignity and display are forgotten. Rich and poor, learned and ignorant, meet together as blood-bought souls, with no thought of caste or worldly preeminence.HLv 296.1
God places His own signet on men, not by rank, not by wealth, not by intellectual greatness, but by their oneness with Christ. “Thou hast also given me,” said David, “the shield of Thy salvation: ... and Thy gentleness”—as an element in the human character—“hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35.HLv 296.2
The Saviour’s words awakened in the disciples a feeling of self-distrust. John was led to question whether in one case his action had been right. “Master,” he said, “we saw one casting out devils in Thy name, ... and we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”HLv 296.3
James and John thought that in checking this man they had in view their Lord’s honor; they began to see they were jealous for their own. They acknowledged their error, and accepted the reproof of Jesus, “Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My name, that can lightly speak evil of Me.” Many had been deeply moved by the character and work of Christ, and their hearts were opening to Him in faith. The disciples must be careful not to discourage these souls. They must manifest the same far-reaching sympathy they had seen in their Master.HLv 296.4
Christ is the Great Teacher; we are to sit at His feet and learn of Him. Every soul whom God has made willing is a channel through which Christ will reveal His pardoning love. How careful we should be lest we discourage one of God’s light bearers, and thus intercept the rays He would have shine to the world!HLv 296.5
Such an act as that of John in forbidding one to work miracles in Christ’s name might result in causing the loss of a soul. Rather than for one to do this, said Jesus, “It is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.”HLv 296.6
Why this strong language? Because “the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10. Shall His disciples show less regard for the souls of their fellowmen than the Majesty of heaven has shown? How terrible the sin of turning one soul away, so that for him the Saviour’s love and agony shall have been in vain.HLv 297.1
“Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come.” RSV. The world will surely oppose the followers of Christ, but woe to him who has taken Christ’s name and yet is found doing this work. Multitudes are deceived and led into false paths by those who claim to serve Him but misrepresent His character.HLv 297.2
One sin cherished is sufficient to degrade the character and mislead others. If the foot or the hand would be cut off, or even the eye be plucked out, to save the body from death, how earnest should we be to put away sin that brings death to the soul!HLv 297.3
In the ritual service salt was added to every sacrifice. This, like the offering of incense, signified that only the righteousness of Christ could make the service acceptable to God. Referring to this, Jesus said, “Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” All must receive the saving salt, the righteousness of our Saviour. Then they become “the salt of the earth,” restraining evil among men, as salt preserves from corruption. Matthew 5:13. But if the salt has lost its savor, the life can exert no saving influence on the world. Jesus says, You must be partakers of My grace, in order to be a savor of life unto life. Then there will be no rivalry, no self-seeking, no desire for the highest place.HLv 297.4
When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to save the lost, slighted, scorned, driven from city to city till His mission was accomplished; when we behold Him in Gethsemane, sweating great drops of blood, and on the cross dying in agony—when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be recognized. We shall rejoice to bear the cross after Jesus, to endure trial, shame, or persecution for His sake.HLv 298.1
No soul who believes in Christ is to be lightly esteemed. By all that has given us advantage over another—education, refinement, nobility of character, religious experience—we are in debt to those less favored. If we are strong, we are to stay up the hands of the weak. Angels are ever present with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, who have many objectionable traits of character, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging. And in this ministry Christ’s true followers will cooperate.HLv 298.2
“What do you think?” said Jesus. “If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of My Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” RSV.HLv 298.3
Do not put the erring one to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor on Christ by making public the sin of one who bears His name. The erring must be led to see his error, that he may reform; but you are not to judge or condemn. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. If you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.HLv 298.4
But even this effort may be unavailing. Then Jesus said, “Take one or two others along with you.” RSV. If he will not hear them, then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought before the whole body of believers. Let the members of the church unite in prayer and loving entreaty that the offender may be restored. The Holy Spirit will speak through His servants, pleading with the wanderer to return to God: “We pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20. He who rejects this united overture has broken the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself from the fellowship of the church. Henceforth, said Jesus, “Let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” But let him not be despised or neglected by his former brethren. Treat him with tenderness and compassion.HLv 299.1
If one neglects the duty Christ has enjoined, of trying to restore those who are in error and sin, he becomes a partaker in the sin. See Leviticus 19:17. For evils that we might have checked, we are just as responsible as if we were guilty of the acts ourselves.HLv 299.2
We are not to make the wrong a matter of comment and criticism among ourselves, nor to repeat it to others. While we seek to correct the errors of a brother, we will shield him as far as possible from the criticism of his own brethren, and how much more from the censure of the unbelieving world. As we wish Christ to deal with us, He bids us deal with one another. “Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:19. The issues of your work are for eternity!HLv 299.3
But we are not to bear this great responsibility alone. Wherever His word is obeyed with a sincere heart, there Christ abides. In the assemblies of the church and wherever disciples, however few, meet in His name, there also He will be. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.” While by His humanity Jesus is a sharer with His disciples in their trials and sympathizes with them in their sufferings, by His divinity He is connected with the throne of the Infinite.HLv 299.4
Wonderful assurance! All the power of heaven combines with human ability in drawing souls to Christ.Luke 9:49-50
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 81a, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, par. 22
If you see things to find fault with, remember that Christ said to His disciples, “Come ye apart ... and rest a while.” [Mark 6:31.] And in this place of retirement they told Him all about their labor, and Christ instructed them how to work. They said, “Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbade him; because he followeth not us.” And Jesus said to them, “Forbid him not; for he that is not against us is for us.” [Luke 9:49, 50.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Luke 9:23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 5, 1872
2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, par. 15
My husband spoke in the forenoon upon the reasons of our faith. The congregation was rather small. I remained in my room writing to Brother Cornell. I wrote diligently the entire forenoon. I spoke in the afternoon to about sixty. I spoke upon the cross of Christ. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] I spoke plainly and decidedly upon the necessity of deciding to be wholly for God and consecrated to the truth. There is feeling in the congregation. We had interview with Brother Cornell.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 30a, 1876
3LtMs, Lt 30a, 1876, par. 13
You have a favorable chance. You earn all that you should earn and that you have strength to earn, and Emma can help you and not injure herself any more than in doing unnecessary things that do no one any good. All in the east get the impression from Emma’s letters that she is not happy, that she is discontented. Well, it need not be so. If Emma would interest herself in the work she can and ought to do without injuring herself, she will forget herself. It is her duty to cultivate cheerfulness. She may look and see how she can be a blessing to others, how she can be useful. She can meditate upon heavenly things and commune with her Saviour. A Christian living daily to glorify God will never be repining. Said Christ, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 23, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 23, 1890, par. 14
Your wife is placed in a position that she has no disposition to fill. She is not yet converted. She lives to please herself, not to do the will of God. She has not thought of being a caretaker or a burden bearer. She is willing to be an ornament in the cause of God; if she can be petted and admired, and can have easy places found for her, she will accept the connection of the Lord’s cause, but she is not ready to be Christ’s servant, a soldier of the cross. She has no inclination to do what she will have to do if she becomes entirely converted. “If any man will come after me,” said Christ, “let him deny himself and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Her case is perilous; if she should now die, it would be with her pride, her self-love upon her, and for such there is no place in the heavenly courts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 25a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 25a, 1891, par. 27
Money-getting is the reward of a certain class of ability. But who gave these talents? It was God: and He gave them to be used for His glory. The same infinite One who gave Jesus Christ to our world, “Who for our sakes became poor that we, through his poverty, might be made rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] Then what is the position of the follower of Christ? “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me, so shall he be my disciple.” [See Luke 9:23.] Who are following Christ? Who are His true and loyal workers? Those who have the anointing of the Holy Spirit are alone safe to handle sacred things. We are embraced in the promise, “For the promise is unto you and to your children, and all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.] With David they may say, “I put the Lord always before my face: he is on my right hand, I shall not be moved.” [Psalm 16:8; Acts 2:25.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 2b, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 3
Now, in the establishment and broadening of the work in this country, means will be essential, that we may do a large work in a short time. And the only way we can do is, in every movement, to keep the eye single to the glory of God so that it may not be said of us, “They began to build, and were not able to finish.” [Luke 14:30.] In leading out to do a broader work we need, at the very beginning, to put pride and worldly ambition clean out of our hearts. Having before us the example of Christ, the greatest Teacher the world ever knew, we need not make a mistake. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] We must study the Pattern and inquire at every step, “Is this the way of the Lord?” We shall certainly make grave mistakes if we do not keep self-denial and self-sacrifice prominent before the people in every movement.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 31, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 31, 1891, par. 43
The standard of truth must be planted in all countries, but the missionary work is not extended as it should be, because those in our offices of publication, and the members of our churches, do not cultivate the precious plant of love and refuse to follow in the footsteps of Him who was meek and lowly in heart. Jesus said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 19b, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 19b, 1892, par. 19
Who will be a personal worker, self-denying, self-sacrificing, as was the Son of the infinite God? Who will carry a burden for perishing souls? Everyone who claims to be a child of God must walk in the footsteps of the Redeemer. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23. Time is short; we must work while the day lasts, for “the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4. Mercy is still pleading for the sinner. All heaven is interested to save perishing souls. But while some in our churches are doing all that they can do, and are filled with intense interest and zeal for souls, there are hundreds and thousands who carry no burden, and live wholly for themselves.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 44, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 44, 1893, par. 10
Christ said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] I feel such an intense interest that every soul shall see, and understand, and be charmed with the consistency of the truth. The evidence of our love to Christ is not pretension; but practice. My brother, it is hard for the mind to comprehend this point; do not confuse any mind with ideas that will not harmonize with the Word. Please to consider that under the teaching of Christ many of the disciples were lamentably ignorant; but when the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised, came upon them and made the vacillating Peter the champion of faith, what a transformation in his character!In Heavenly Places
The Pathway of Sacrifice, August 6
HP 225.1
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 102, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 102, 1893, par. 11
Make the instruction plain as to what it means to be a Christian. “If any man will come after me,” said Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” [John 6:56.] Food is the substance of which we partake, that our bodies may be strengthened and built up. In like manner we are to feed upon that which will build up our spiritual nature. Jesus said, “It is the spirit that quickeneth: the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [Verse 63.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 78, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 78, 1894, par. 3
This overflowing affection for each other must be guarded. Sister Starr is in positive danger of placing her husband where God should be. This quality of affection grows into selfishness and blind idolatry. There is a snare in all this. Its diverts the affections from God. Sister Starr and Sister Daniells both need to consider carefully what is the real texture of their love. Is Christ placed first? “I the Lord thy God am a jealous God.” [Exodus 20:5.] He will not accept a divided heart; He must be worshipped with the undivided affections, then nothing will be missing in our life. The joy of grace makes the life even; it gives hope to the hopeless; it gives assurance to faith, for its foundation is Christ, the solid Rock. God commands us, “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.” [Verse 3.] And Jesus says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 23b, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 23b, 1894, par. 14
What is the definition of Christian? It is to be Christlike. “He who will come after me,” said Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] When the Lord sees His people binding about their imaginary wants, practicing self-denial, not in a mournful, regretful spirit, as Lot’s wife left Sodom, but joyfully, for Christ’s sake, and because it is the right thing to do, then the work will go forward with power.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 71, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 71, 1894, par. 12
The Pattern, Christ Jesus, must ever be kept before us. The Lord Jesus says, “Follow me.” “He that would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] This was not done, but a new order of things was introduced into the office. The counsels of God were <too often> ruled out of your assemblies. How? With some by an unholy confederacy. “We will stand together,” they said. “You give me your support, and I will give you my support.” This was the principle that controlled <some of the workers> in the office. God calls it an unholy confederacy. His grace and His Spirit had nothing to do with this human policy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 21, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 21, 1894, par. 11
Said Christ, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Who is it that speaks? It is the self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer, the Majesty of heaven, the Adored of angels. Seraphim and cherubim bow to do His bidding.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 31, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 31, 1894, par. 17
Many purchase idols with money that should go to the house of God. No one can practice real benevolence without practicing genuine self-denial. Self-denial and the cross lie directly in the path of every Christian who is truly following Christ. Jesus says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Will every soul consider the fact that Christian discipleship includes self-denial, self-sacrifice even to the laying down of life itself, if need be, for the sake of Him who has given His life for the life of the world?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 12, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 12, 1894, par. 4
The words of Christ mean very much to each one of us; but we are not practical doers of His words. “He that will come after me,” says Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] “And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:38.] We must follow closely in the footsteps of Christ, then we shall be wholly the Lord’s; soul, body, and spirit will be devoted to doing the works of Christ. Time is short, very short; the end is near. But we are not to be content to remain in idle expectancy, neither should we be practicing selfish indulgence. We want to lay up our treasures in heaven. The time now devoted to fashioning and admiring the little nothings that please the taste should be wholly given to God in labor for our fellow men for whom Christ has given His life. He died for them that through His death they might live. Through faith in Him, not one need perish; all may have everlasting life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 90, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 90, 1895, par. 28
Listen to the words of Christ, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] When bestowing gifts let us consider the matter, and see what will be the result. Let us ask ourselves, Will this gift tend to strengthen pride? Will it give a lesson in self-gratification, and work contrary to the lessons of Christ? Will it be the means of leading my friends to indulge in self-pleasing, and not to consider that it is sinful to buy unnecessary ornaments? Shall I foster that which Christ has given lessons to repress? Christ lived not to please Himself.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 26, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 26, 1895, par. 11
Do we want to walk in the footsteps of Jesus? We need not seek out the paths in the old Nazareth, Bethany, and Jerusalem. We shall find the footprints of Jesus by the sick bed, by the side of suffering humanity, in the hovels of the poverty-stricken and distressed. We may walk in these footsteps, comforting the suffering, speaking words of hope and comfort to the despondent. Doing as Jesus did when he was upon earth, we shall walk in His blessed steps. Jesus said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] When the sin-cursed earth is purified from every stain of sin, when the Mount of Olives is rent asunder and becomes an immense plain, when the holy city of God descends upon it, the land that is now called the Holy Land will indeed become holy. But God’s cause and work will not be advanced by making pilgrimages to Jerusalem. The curse of God is upon Jerusalem for the rejection and crucifixion of His only begotten Son. But God will cleanse away the vile blot.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 21, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 21, 1895, par. 15
By transgression man was severed from God, the communion between them was broken. But Jesus Christ died upon the cross of Calvary, bearing in His body the sins of the whole world, and the gulf between heaven and earth was bridged by that cross. Christ leads men to the gulf and points to the bridge by which it is spanned, saying, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] God gives us a probation in which we may prove whether or not we will be loyal to Him. Christ calls upon us to lay our sins upon Him, the Sin-bearer, that we may represent God. But if we refuse to let them go, taking the responsibility ourselves, we will be lost. We may fall upon Christ, the living stone, and be broken, but if that stone falls upon us, it will grind us to powder.In Heavenly Places
Tests All Along the Way, September 16
HP 266.4
Christ’s command, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23), is the touchstone that discovers the quality of the experience. When a man’s inclinations or ambitious hopes are crossed he reveals the spirit that governs him....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 65, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 65, 1895, par. 16
How can God move upon the churches to contribute their hard-earned means to be handled by men who are self-sufficient, selfish, and so arrogant and over-bearing that the frown of God is upon them? Our institutions need cleansing as did the temple when Christ was upon the earth. Man lords it over men’s consciences, man dictates to his fellow men as God. Everywhere throughout the field this spirit is leavening hearts with the same narrow and selfish purposes. Reaction must come, and who shall then set things in order? Jesus says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 122, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 122, 1895, par. 2
How can God move upon the churches to contribute their hard-earned means to be handled by men who are self-sufficient, self-centered, and so arrogant and overbearing that the frown of God is upon them? Our institutions need cleansing as did the temple when Christ was upon the earth. Man lords it over men’s consciences; man dictates to his fellow men as a god. Everywhere throughout the field this spirit is leavening hearts with the same narrow and selfish purposes. Reaction must come, and who shall then set things in order? Jesus says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 13, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, par. 5
By dealing truly with God, we really deal much more benevolently with ourselves; for when the great day of reckoning comes, every man will be asked, What have you done with the goods which I lent you? As we consider this question many of us need to walk more humbly and with greater self-denial before God. All who feel it a cross not to keep up an appearance in the eyes of the world, I would point to the life and work of Christ, who for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. The fear of not keeping up an appearance need not exist, for an appropriate course of action will bring honor rather than discredit from all sensible minds. Confess Christ in this particular, for He has said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 73, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 73, 1896, par. 2
Because you have not changed, do not entertain the idea that you have no changes to make, that your practices were entirely as they should be. If your habits and opinions are stereotyped, then the Lord cannot lead you to advanced, purifying reforms. You, my brother and sister, have a serious question to ask daily, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The Lord Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] We are to follow on step by step to know the Lord, that we may know His goings forth are prepared as the morning. “Follow thou me.” [John 21:22.] “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 18, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, par. 18
With the example of Christ before you, can you plead convenience for the erection of more buildings and the centering of more interests in Battle Creek? Our people have deep, earnest lessons to learn in the experience presented in the words of Christ: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] You are not to choose the most convenient task, and, because selfish practices have been followed, continue the same course. Look to Christ, and learn how He dealt with humanity. He loved His neighbor better than He loved Himself. He denied Himself that He might be a perfect example for us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 25, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 25, 1896, par. 2
The question of finance can be managed nicely if all the workers will be willing, when there is a pressure for means, to accept less wages. This was the principle the Lord revealed to me to be brought into our publishing institutions. There will be plenty to do, and your work will need these very men. Should we not all be willing to restrict our wants at a time when money is so scarce? My husband and I worked on this principle. We said, The publishing house is the Lord’s institution, and we will economize, reducing our expenses as far as possible. The Lord requires self-sacrifice of all His servants to advance His work and make it a success. Let every worker now do his best to sustain and guard our publishing institution in Melbourne. Do not think that the Lord will be pleased to see this spirit control in all our institutions? We are to bring principle into the work. Jesus said, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Are we ready to follow Christ?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 28, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 28, 1896, par. 19
Jesus has plainly specified the conditions of discipleship: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me, so shall he be my disciple.” [See Luke 9:23.] Those who appreciate these words, and are doers of the Word will maintain a close connection with Christ. They are permitted to become partakers with Christ of His sufferings, that they may have the joy of being partakers also with Him of His glory. They will all be tested and tried; they will all pass through periods of temptation and darkness. There will be times of serious self-examination and close investigation of the Word of God, to see whether they are in the faith; but these experiences will give them a higher perception of what Christ is to them, and of what they may be to Christ in co-partnership in His great work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 48, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 48, 1897, par. 29
We cannot afford to barter away our birthright for a mess of pottage. If we do this, we lose life, eternal life, to secure a treasure that will perish in the using. Shall we not hear the voice of our Redeemer, saying, “He that will come after me, let him take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 130, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 130, 1897, par. 7
Unless a man is renewed in the spirit of his mind by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, he will become restless and dissatisfied because he has not died [to] self. “Come unto me,” said Christ, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Again Christ says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Without me ye can do nothing correctly, any more than could Cain. Of what advantage is any system of religion to one who has not been transformed in character by the profession of faith without works?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 52, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 52, 1897, par. 6
The most difficult sermon to preach and the hardest to practice is self-denial. The greedy sinner, self, closes the door to the good which might be done, but which is not done because shillings and pounds are invested in selfish purposes. We may never have opportunity to do great things; we may never be required to make sublime sacrifices. But the greatest victory we can gain is to follow Jesus. What saith the great Teacher? “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Every day that Christ lived in our world was for Him a day of self-denial. If we would follow Him over the rugged path of self-denial, we must commence with the earliest years of our life to deny self, and this denial must be carried into the every day occurrences and actions of our life.12LtMs, Lt 52, 1897, par. 8
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” [Acts 20:35.] Through self-denying effort many pounds, shillings, and pence will flow into the Lord’s treasury, that there may be meat in His house. Self-denial will bring into the treasury of God the means necessary to advance His work. Thus we may act in copartnership with Christ. Christ’s followers consider that in giving back to the Lord His own they are receiving a blessing, for they are accumulating heavenly treasure, which will be given to them when they shall hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] What is that joy? “Who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” [Hebrews 12:2.] The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the privilege of those who have overcome obstacles in order to put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]In Heavenly Places
To See the King, December 24
HP 365.2
If we desire to see the King in His beauty we must here behave worthily. We must outgrow our childishness. When provocation comes let us be silent. There are times when silence is eloquence. We are to reveal the patience and kindness and forbearance that will make us worthy of being called sons and daughters of God. We are to trust Him, and believe on Him, and rely upon Him. We are to follow in Christ’s steps. “If any man will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23).... It may be a heavy cross to keep silent when you ought to. It may be a painful discipline, but let me assure you that silence does much more to overcome evil than a storm of angry words.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 123, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 123, 1898, par. 15
Money is a needed treasure, and it is not to be lavished upon those who do not need it. Someone needs your willing gifts. You are not to educate your children to think that your love for them must be expressed in indulging their pride, their extravagance, their love of show and display. This is not necessary to make your children happy or comfortable. There is no time now to invent ways to use up money. Your inventive faculties are to be put to the stretch to see how you can save and economize, how you can deny self, and have something to invest in the Lord’s cause, that the truth may come to all people. Christ says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 165, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 165, 1898, par. 5
“He that will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] This is the proof of discipleship. If church members would be doers of the Word, as they solemnly pledged themselves to be when they received baptism, they would love their brethren, and would be constantly seeking for unity and harmony. “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:2, 3.] The world’s Redeemer spoke these words, and no one need misunderstand them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 81, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 81, 1898, par. 10
“As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] All who have a deep and living experience will understand the import of these words. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, (glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth, ... And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [Verses 14, 16.] Christ said to His disciples, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Those who drink of the cup of Christ’s sufferings must meet the temptations Christ met and overcome in His name. And every trial endured will add to the weight of their eternal glory. Every faithful discharge of duty, every act of charity in the name of Christ, every word of encouragement and consolation spoken, will bring to them according to their works. They will soon be acknowledged before the assembled universe as co-laborers with Christ to save a perishing world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 44, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 44, 1898, par. 14
The Lord loves His people, and will co-operate with them when they co-operate with Him. The work that is to be done in these lines, Dr. Kellogg is doing, and those who are standing aside to criticize should themselves be engaged in this work, asking to help souls to find the way of life. Seek the lost sheep. This is not a fanatical and superstitious work; it is the work that Christ did when He was in our world. He said, “Except a man deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me, he cannot be my disciple.” [See Luke 9:23; 14:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 16, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 16, 1898, par. 5
Obedience to God’s law would bring our world into closer harmony with the heavenly intelligences. The task before each human being is to become intelligent in the things of God, to find the right path, the narrow way that leads through the gate of self-denial into the city of God. The road that leads to perdition is broad and full of human indulgence; but at the end thereof there is no city whose Maker and Builder is God. The road that leads to heaven is narrow, and few there be that find it, for no human device can make this road smooth or easy. “If any man will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 60, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 60, 1898, par. 24
Self-denial and self-sacrifice is the portion of those who unite in partnership with the self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer. This discipline is the most valuable experience that can be obtained in this present world. In His humanity Christ, the world’s Redeemer, has given to all a pattern of perfect humanity. We must work in the same line. Our Saviour was made perfect through suffering and manifold trials, and He declares, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 86, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 86, 1898, par. 12
“And he said unto them, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Then the eye of faith will be so anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, that it will be able to behold with clear, unclouded vision the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. God calls for His workers to have faith in Him, and when He speaks to them, defining their duty in unmistakable terms, to take Him at His word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 92a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 92a, 1898, par. 33
The ten virgins all claim to be Christians, but five are true and five are false. All have a name, a call, a lamp, and all claim to be doing God service. All apparently watch for His appearing. All started apparently prepared, but five were wanting. Five were found surprised, dismayed, without oil, outside the wedding banquet, and the door was shut. There are many who cry peace, peace, when there is no peace. This is the most perilous belief for the human soul to entertain. Christ speaks to all who bear His name, who claim to be His followers, to eat His flesh and drink His blood, else they can have no part with Him. Be not like the foolish virgins, who take for granted that the promises of God are theirs, while they do not live as Christ has enjoined upon them. Christ teaches us that profession is nothing. “He that will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Lift Him Up
Surrender to Christ, August 19
LHU 245.1
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 48, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 48, 1898, par. 3
We will press close to Jesus. Hear His voice to His disciples: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] God requires of us our life service. Our Saviour came to this world to be a Sin-bearer, to take away the sin of the world. He came as our Advocate. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for our sins only, but also for the sins of the whole world. “Hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.” [1 John 2:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 46, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 46, 1898, par. 23
A violent display of temper is at all times the work of Satan. Thus he leads human agents to reflect his image. You need an education entirely different from that which you are now receiving. Christ speaks to you; hear His voice. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Christ calls you just as you are. All that you are asked to do is to cooperate with Him. His influence will mold and train your soul. You will be transformed by the Spirit of Christ into His likeness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 57, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 57, 1898, par. 2
The great Missionary came to our work to leave us all an example of how we should work, and what spirit we should bring into our work. He left the heavenly courts, and came to our world, His divinity clothed with humanity, to teach us how to work. He says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] His work was to convince the world of sin; but how can a church convince the world of sin when the members are content to live to please themselves?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 7, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 26
You may rise to the heights to which the Holy Spirit calls you. True religion means living the Word in your practical life. Your profession is not of any value without the practical doing of the Word. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] This is the condition of discipleship. “Behold my servant whom I have chosen: my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall show judgment unto the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.” [Matthew 12:18-21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 88, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 88, 1898, par. 12
Christ presented the cross to His disciples. “If any man will come after me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] The cross must be lifted by all who receive Christ as their Saviour. God does not forgive sin to encourage us to continue in sin. It is to bring sin to a close, that the divine nature may take possession of the being, and the riches of heaven be poured into mind and heart. God has made every provision that the divine resources may flow freely, and we are to deem no sacrifice too costly in order that the treasures of truth may be given to the world. To fall short of this is a betrayal of sacred trust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 176, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 176, 1899, par. 5
Christ passed over the ground where Adam fell, overcoming in our behalf. He endured every test that man will ever be called upon to endure. He met all the temptations which man will meet in his life-experience. Christ has Himself travelled over the path in which He calls upon us to walk. He says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. As I endured the test and trial, so you may endure it.” [See Luke 9:23.] He who is at last crowned conqueror, must depend, as Christ did, upon Deity. Every step Christ took was taken in full, entire dependence upon God. Had Christ transgressed the law of God in one particular, He would have been a sinner, and His offering would have been a failure, but not upon a single point did the enemy overcome Him. He declares, “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] “He that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father on his throne.” [Revelation 3:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 69, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 69, 1899, par. 8
Which road are we travelling? We may take with us into the broad road all our evil tendencies, our cheapness of character, our associates in evil. We may choose to listen to their words and laugh at their wit, but in so doing we shall descend lower and lower in the scale of moral value with God, and at last the words will be spoken, “Cut down the unfruitful tree. Why cumbereth it the ground?” [Luke 13:7.] It remains to be seen whether the members of the Wessels family have chosen Christ or the world, whether heaven is of the highest value to them, or whether self and self-indulgence are more to them than Christ and God and heaven. It remains to be seen whether they will follow Christ. “He that will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1091—Preach God’s Word, Not Fanciful, Imaginary Doctrines
14MR 62.2
Manufacture not yokes for your own necks or for the necks of God’s people. Let no one struggle against natural claims, but against sin, which must be met and repulsed at every step. The way is plainly marked out. “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” [Luke 9:23].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 93, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 93, 1899, par. 14
Men and women are fixing their own destiny. They are candidates either for heaven or for hell. There is a world to be warned. With every true, self-sacrificing, faithful worker God sends forth His angels. But those who will not work without the wages they themselves stipulate are represented by those first called in the parable, who at the close of the day found themselves last. Christ says, “He who will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Those who obey will enter into the design of the divine Planner, and they will be instructed and guided.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 10, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 10, 1899, par. 5
Those who do not the works of Christ hate self-denial and piety. By their course of action they will influence and deceive souls who, if not deceived by these agents of Satan, would walk in obedience to the plainly-specified command, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. So shall he be my disciple.” [See Luke 9:23.] The souls of those led from the simplicity of the gospel, from the self-denying life of a Christian, will be required at their hands. Our conduct, our sentiments, must be conformed to the divine standard, and constantly we must pray for heavenly illumination and sanctified judgment, that we shall not err from God’s precepts. Every church needs to bring forth fruit meet for repentance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 207, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 207, 1899, par. 19
Let men humble their hearts before the Lord. Let teachers heed the Word of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Manufacture not yokes for your own necks or for the necks of God’s people. Let no one struggle against natural claims, but against sin, which must be met and repulsed at every step. The way is plainly marked out. He that “will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 169, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 169, 1899, par. 19
The Lord Jesus has said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23. Christ’s words made an impression on the minds of His hearers. Many of them, though not clearly comprehending His instruction, were moved by deep conviction to say decidedly, “Never man spake like this man.” John 7:46. The disciples did not always understand the lessons Christ wished to convey by parables, and when the multitude had gone away, they would ask Him to explain His words. He was ever ready to lead them to a perfect understanding of His word and His will; for from them, in clear, distinct lines, truth was to go forth to the world.14LtMs, Ms 169, 1899, par. 22
Christ is saying to His servants today as He said to His disciples, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] But men are as slow now to learn the lesson as in Christ’s day. God has given His people warning after warning, but the customs, habits, and practices of the world have had so great power on the minds of His professed people that His warnings have been disregarded.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 196, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 196, 1899, par. 8
Christ is the light of the world. We are to walk in His light, for He is “that true Light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [John 1:9.] “Every one,” said He, “that is of the truth, heareth my words.” [John 18:37.] “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] It is through disregard of this command that backsliding has come into our ranks. Men have been placed where God should be, and their example has been followed. Christ spoke no mere sentiments, notions, or opinions, but pure, clean, holy, eternal truth. He set forth principles, both in precept and example, from His own personal knowledge. He saw what men in their selfish blindness and self-indulgence failed to see—that whatever deviates or leads away from the eternal principles He has set forth, however plausible or deeply reverenced in the minds of men, is a delusion and a falsehood, unable to sanctify or save the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 17, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 17, 1899, par. 5
Christ says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] He has laid down the conditions of salvation. He gave His holy life to secure eternal life for every one who will come to Him and believe in Him as his personal Saviour. He took the nature of man that He might stand in the form of humanity before the heavenly universe, before the worlds unfallen, and before a fallen world, and make a propitiation for the sins of the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 4, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 4, 1900, par. 4
We must not lose faith because of the lack of money facilities. We can only do what we can in our lot and in our place. It is not so important that the finite agent such heavy work as that he walks in the footsteps of the Leader, and does not run ahead of Christ or lag behind. “I,” Christ says, “am at your right hand to help you.” “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] We are perfectly safe in following in the footsteps of our Leader. This is the yoke we are to bear. We are to encourage and cultivate practical sympathy and love for all classes of society. All, the high as well as the lowly, need much sympathy, tenderness, patience, and long-suffering.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 2, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 2, 1900, par. 13
The Lord calls for a reformation all through our ranks. Do not ask the Lord to humble you. Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God. If ever a people needed the spirit and grace of Christ, it is those in our institutions. If the men in high positions of trust are not purged from the spirit of selfishness, they will have to step down and seek some other work. Those who are in God’s service must closely examine themselves and seek earnestly for soul-cleansing, or God will remove them from their place. Men must be under God’s discipline. There must be seen less of self and more of Christ. Then sinners will be converted. As a people to whom have been committed the most sacred truths ever committed to mortals, we must catch the Spirit of Christ and practice His principles. He says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] When we follow Christ in meekness and lowliness, there will be more means to use for the advancement of missionary work. Rest is found in wearing the yoke of Christ. By bringing His virtues into the practical life, we become like Him. Thus we learn to avoid the distortion of sin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 14, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 14, 1900, par. 22
On the side of obedience Christ stands, giving to all the invitation, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] “If ye abide in me and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” [John 15:7, 8.] All those who are true and loyal to God bear fruit, not the fruit of transgression, but the fruit of a glad, willing obedience. They are filled with thankfulness that they are not numbered with those who have chosen the wide gate and broad road as more convenient than the road cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 669—Relation of Faith and Works
9MR 12.1
Christ said, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). I feel such an intense interest that every soul shall see, and understand, and be charmed with the consistency of the truth. The evidence of our love to Christ is not pretention, but practice....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 30, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 30, 1900, par. 7
The talents God has given men and women are not all alike for He would have one supply the need of the other. He desires His workers to help one another in the discharge of their various duties and the thorough accomplishment of the work to which He calls them. It is only as we follow Christ with fidelity that we can do the work essential to be done to prepare a people to meet their Lord. The more men pray and believe and follow the directions of the Lord, the more perfectly will they use their talents in the accomplishment of His work. Men may accept a form of religion, but if pride, selfishness, and self-indulgence unite them with the world and its pleasures and amusements, their religion makes them worse instead of better; for they travel the broad road with a false sense of religious security. “He that will come after me,” Christ declared, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 144, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 144, 1901, par. 23
The religion of Christ never degrades the receiver, never makes him coarse or rough or uncourteous. It never incapacitates him for imparting what he has received. The truth as it is in Jesus is warm with comfort and love. Day by day the soul is to receive this truth, for it is spiritual food. Knowing that we have a living Christ, we may safely trust the soul to His keeping. He says, “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] There is divine power for every one who will receive Christ by faith. In the Redeemer’s power, practicing self-denial, they can walk in perilous places. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] These words are spoken to every one who desires to be a Christian. He who shuns the cross shuns the reward promised to the faithful.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 72, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, par. 1
In the providence of God it is ordained that every human agent should study the life of Christ, and so carefully walk in his Master’s footsteps as to reveal to the world by his daily life the character of the Father as manifested through the Son. Our Saviour has plainly stated, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 14, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 14, 1902, par. 13
During the life of Jesus on earth, He frequently said to His disciples, “Follow me.” “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Obstacles will certainly confront us on our way; but we must bravely, uncomplainingly press onward. The Lord is good. He is a present help in time of trouble. If we tell the Lord all our troubles <and we believe His Word>, He will hear and answer prayer. He invites us to come to Him. “Ask,” He says, “and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] The treasure-house is full. We may draw from it continually. Never will it become exhausted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 178, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 178, 1902, par. 3
“If any man will come after me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” “Whosoever doth not bear his cross ... cannot be my disciple.” [Luke 9:23; 14:27.] Let us follow where Christ leads the way. Identification with Him—this is what gives us the credentials that show that we are workers for Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 114, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 114, 1903, par. 35
Those who follow Christ must walk by faith. “If any man will come after Me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 74, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 74, 1903, par. 11
All who seek for the prize are to place themselves under strict discipline. “Every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things.” [Verse 25.] Those who enter into a contest of physical strength for a corruptible prize realize the necessity of rigid abstinence from every indulgence that would weaken the physical powers. They eat simple food at regular hours. How much more should those who enter for the gospel race restrain themselves from the unlawful indulgence of appetite and “abstain from fleshly lusts that war against the soul.” [1 Peter 2:11.] They must be temperate at all times. The same restraint that gives them the power to obtain the victory at one time will, if practiced constantly, give them a great advantage in the race for the crown of life. “If any man will come after Me,” said Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 287, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 287, 1905, par. 7
Christ is saying to His servants today, as He said to His disciples, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.] But men are as slow now to learn the lesson as in Christ’s day. God has given His people warning after warning; but the customs, habits, and practices of the world have had so great power on the minds of His professed people that His warnings have been disregarded.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 238, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, par. 3
Our Saviour has plainly stated, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 162, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 162, 1908, par. 19
“If any man will come after Me,” said Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.] Let us follow the Saviour in His simplicity and self-denial. Let us lift up the Man of Calvary by word and by holy living. The Saviour comes very near to those who consecrate themselves to God. If ever there was a time when we needed the working of the Spirit of God upon our hearts and lives, it is now. Christ is speaking to us individually, saying, “I am He that holdeth thy right hand. I am He that liveth and was dead, and, behold, I am alive forever more.” [Isaiah 41:13; Revelation 1:18.]