EGW WritingsMark 8

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 44—The True Sign

DA 404.1

“Again He went out from the borders of Tyre, and came through Sidon unto the Sea of Galilee, through the midst of the borders of Decapolis.” Mark 7:31, R. V.

DA 404.2

It was in the region of Decapolis that the demoniacs of Gergesa had been healed. Here the people, alarmed at the destruction of the swine, had constrained Jesus to depart from among them. But they had listened to the messengers He left behind, and a desire was aroused to see Him. As He came again into that region, a crowd gathered about Him, and a deaf, stammering man was brought to Him. Jesus did not, according to His custom, restore the man by a word only. Taking him apart from the multitude, He put His fingers in his ears, and touched his tongue; looking up to heaven, He sighed at thought of the ears that would not be open to the truth, the tongues that refused to acknowledge the Redeemer. At the word, “Be opened,” the man’s speech was restored, and, disregarding the command to tell no man, he published abroad the story of his cure.

DA 404.3

Jesus went up into a mountain, and there the multitude flocked to Him, bringing their sick and lame, and laying them at His feet. He healed them all; and the people, heathen as they were, glorified the God of Israel. For three days they continued to throng about the Saviour, sleeping at night in the open air, and through the day pressing eagerly to hear the words of Christ, and to see His works. At the end of three days their food was spent. Jesus would not send them away hungry, and He called upon His disciples to give them food. Again the disciples revealed their unbelief. At Bethsaida they had seen how, with Christ’s blessing, their little store availed for the feeding of the multitude; yet they did not now bring forward their all, trusting His power to multiply it for the hungry crowds. Moreover, those whom He fed at Bethsaida were Jews; these were Gentiles and heathen. Jewish prejudice was still strong in the hearts of the disciples, and they answered Jesus, “Whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?” But obedient to His word they brought Him what they had,—seven loaves and two fishes. The multitude were fed, seven large baskets of fragments remaining. Four thousand men, besides women and children, were thus refreshed, and Jesus sent them away with glad and grateful hearts.

DA 405.1

Then taking a boat with His disciples, He crossed the lake to Magdala, at the southern end of the plain of Gennesaret. In the border of Tyre and Sidon His spirit had been refreshed by the confiding trust of the Syrophoenician woman. The heathen people of Decapolis had received Him with gladness. Now as He landed once more in Galilee, where His power had been most strikingly manifested, where most of His works of mercy had been performed, and His teaching given, He was met with contemptuous unbelief.

DA 405.2

A deputation of Pharisees had been joined by representatives from the rich and lordly Sadducees, the party of the priests, the skeptics and aristocracy of the nation. The two sects had been at bitter enmity. The Sadducees courted the favor of the ruling power in order to maintain their own position and authority. The Pharisees, on the other hand, fostered the popular hatred against the Romans, longing for the time when they could throw off the yoke of the conqueror. But Pharisee and Sadducee now united against Christ. Like seeks like; and evil, wherever it exists, leagues with evil for the destruction of the good.

DA 406.1

Now the Pharisees and Sadducees came to Christ, asking for a sign from heaven. When in the days of Joshua Israel went out to battle with the Canaanites at Bethhoron, the sun had stood still at the leader’s command until victory was gained; and many similar wonders had been manifest in their history. Some such sign was demanded of Jesus. But these signs were not what the Jews needed. No mere external evidence could benefit them. What they needed was not intellectual enlightenment, but spiritual renovation.

DA 406.2

“O ye hypocrites,” said Jesus, “ye can discern the face of the sky,”—by studying the sky they could foretell the weather,—“but can ye not discern the signs of the times?” Christ’s own words, spoken with the power of the Holy Spirit that convicted them of sin, were the sign that God had given for their salvation. And signs direct from heaven had been given to attest the mission of Christ. The song of the angels to the shepherds, the star that guided the wise men, the dove and the voice from heaven at His baptism, were witnesses for Him.

DA 406.3

“And He sighed deeply in His spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign?” “There shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas.” As Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, Christ was to be the same time “in the heart of the earth.” And as the preaching of Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so Christ’s preaching was a sign to His generation. But what a contrast in the reception of the word! The people of the great heathen city trembled as they heard the warning from God. Kings and nobles humbled themselves; the high and the lowly together cried to the God of heaven, and His mercy was granted unto them. “The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation,” Christ had said, “and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.” Matthew 12:40, 41.

DA 406.4

Every miracle that Christ performed was a sign of His divinity. He was doing the very work that had been foretold of the Messiah; but to the Pharisees these works of mercy were a positive offense. The Jewish leaders looked with heartless indifference on human suffering. In many cases their selfishness and oppression had caused the affliction that Christ relieved. Thus His miracles were to them a reproach.

DA 406.5

That which led the Jews to reject the Saviour’s work was the highest evidence of His divine character. The greatest significance of His miracles is seen in the fact that they were for the blessing of humanity. The highest evidence that He came from God is that His life revealed the character of God. He did the works and spoke the words of God. Such a life is the greatest of all miracles.

DA 407.1

When the message of truth is presented in our day, there are many who, like the Jews, cry, Show us a sign. Work us a miracle. Christ wrought no miracle at the demand of the Pharisees. He wrought no miracle in the wilderness in answer to Satan’s insinuations. He does not impart to us power to vindicate ourselves or to satisfy the demands of unbelief and pride. But the gospel is not without a sign of its divine origin. Is it not a miracle that we can break from the bondage of Satan? Enmity against Satan is not natural to the human heart; it is implanted by the grace of God. When one who has been controlled by a stubborn, wayward will is set free, and yields himself wholeheartedly to the drawing of God’s heavenly agencies, a miracle is wrought; so also when a man who has been under strong delusion comes to understand moral truth. Every time a soul is converted, and learns to love God and keep His commandments, the promise of God is fulfilled, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.” Ezekiel 36:26. The change in human hearts, the transformation of human characters, is a miracle that reveals an ever-living Saviour, working to rescue souls. A consistent life in Christ is a great miracle. In the preaching of the word of God, the sign that should be manifest now and always is the presence of the Holy Spirit, to make the word a regenerating power to those that hear. This is God’s witness before the world to the divine mission of His Son.

DA 407.2

Those who desired a sign from Jesus had so hardened their hearts in unbelief that they did not discern in His character the likeness of God. They would not see that His mission was in fulfillment of the Scriptures. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, Jesus said to the Pharisees, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” Luke 16:31. No sign that could be given in heaven or earth would benefit them.

DA 407.3

Jesus “sighed deeply in His spirit,” and, turning from the group of cavilers, re-entered the boat with His disciples. In sorrowful silence they again crossed the lake. They did not, however, return to the place they had left, but directed their course toward Bethsaida, near where the five thousand had been fed. Upon reaching the farther side, Jesus said, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.” The Jews had been accustomed since the days of Moses to put away leaven from their houses at the Passover season, and they had thus been taught to regard it as a type of sin. Yet the disciples failed to understand Jesus. In their sudden departure from Magdala they had forgotten to take bread, and they had with them only one loaf. To this circumstance they understood Christ to refer, warning them not to buy bread of a Pharisee or a Sadducee. Their lack of faith and spiritual insight had often led them to similar misconception of His words. Now Jesus reproved them for thinking that He who had fed thousands with a few fishes and barley loaves could in that solemn warning have referred merely to temporal food. There was danger that the crafty reasoning of the Pharisees and the Sadducees would leaven His disciples with unbelief, causing them to think lightly of the works of Christ.

DA 408.1

The disciples were inclined to think that their Master should have granted the demand for a sign in the heavens. They believed that He was fully able to do this, and that such a sign would put His enemies to silence. They did not discern the hypocrisy of these cavilers.

DA 408.2

Months afterward, “when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another,” Jesus repeated the same teaching. “He began to say unto His disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Luke 12:1.

DA 408.3

The leaven placed in the meal works imperceptibly, changing the whole mass to its own nature. So if hypocrisy is allowed to exist in the heart, it permeates the character and the life. A striking example of the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, Christ had already rebuked in denouncing the practice of “Corban,” by which a neglect of filial duty was concealed under a pretense of liberality to the temple. The scribes and Pharisees were insinuating deceptive principles. They concealed the real tendency of their doctrines, and improved every occasion to instill them artfully into the minds of their hearers. These false principles, when once accepted, worked like leaven in the meal, permeating and transforming the character. It was this deceptive teaching that made it so hard for the people to receive the words of Christ.

DA 408.4

The same influences are working today through those who try to explain the law of God in such a way as to make it conform to their practices. This class do not attack the law openly, but put forward speculative theories that undermine its principles. They explain it so as to destroy its force.

DA 409.1

The hypocrisy of the Pharisees was the product of self-seeking. The glorification of themselves was the object of their lives. It was this that led them to pervert and misapply the Scriptures, and blinded them to the purpose of Christ’s mission. This subtle evil even the disciples of Christ were in danger of cherishing. Those who classed themselves with the followers of Jesus, but who had not left all in order to become His disciples, were influenced in a great degree by the reasoning of the Pharisees. They were often vacillating between faith and unbelief, and they did not discern the treasures of wisdom hidden in Christ. Even the disciples, though outwardly they had left all for Jesus’ sake, had not in heart ceased to seek great things for themselves. It was this spirit that prompted the strife as to who should be greatest. It was this that came between them and Christ, making them so little in sympathy with His mission of self-sacrifice, so slow to comprehend the mystery of redemption. As leaven, if left to complete its work, will cause corruption and decay, so does the self-seeking spirit, cherished, work the defilement and ruin of the soul.

DA 409.2

Among the followers of our Lord today, as of old, how widespread is this subtle, deceptive sin! How often our service to Christ, our communion with one another, is marred by the secret desire to exalt self! How ready the thought of self-gratulation, and the longing for human approval! It is the love of self, the desire for an easier way than God has appointed that leads to the substitution of human theories and traditions for the divine precepts. To His own disciples the warning words of Christ are spoken, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees.”

DA 409.3

The religion of Christ is sincerity itself. Zeal for God’s glory is the motive implanted by the Holy Spirit; and only the effectual working of the Spirit can implant this motive. Only the power of God can banish self-seeking and hypocrisy. This change is the sign of His working. When the faith we accept destroys selfishness and pretense, when it leads us to seek God’s glory and not our own, we may know that it is of the right order. “Father, glorify Thy name” (John 12:28), was the keynote of Christ’s life, and if we follow Him, this will be the keynote of our life. He commands us to “walk, even as He walked;” and “hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” 1 John 2:6, 3.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 44—The True Sign

HLv 271.1

In Decapolis, where the demoniacs of Gergesa had been healed, the people had constrained Jesus to depart. But they had listened to the messengers He left behind. As He came again into that region, a crowd gathered, and a deaf, stammering man was brought to Him. Taking him apart from the multitude, Jesus put His fingers in his ears and touched his tongue. He sighed at thought of the ears that would not be open to the truth, the tongues that refused to acknowledge the Redeemer. At the word, “Be opened,” the man’s speech was restored.

HLv 271.2

Jesus went up into a mountain, and there the multitude flocked to Him, bringing their sick and lame. He healed them all; and the people, heathen as they were, glorified the God of Israel. For three days they thronged about the Saviour, sleeping at night in the open air, and through the day pressing to hear the words of Christ and see His works.

HLv 271.3

At the end of three days their food was spent. Jesus would not send them away hungry, and He called on His disciples to give them food. At Bethsaida they had seen how their little store availed for feeding the multitude; yet they did not now bring forward their all, trusting His power to multiply it for the hungry crowds. Again the disciples revealed their unbelief. Those He fed at Bethsaida were Jews; these were Gentiles and heathen. Jewish prejudice was still strong in the hearts of the disciples. “Where are we to get bread enough in the desert to feed so great a crowd?” RSV.

HLv 271.4

But obedient to His word they brought Him what they had—seven loaves and two fishes. The multitude were fed, seven large baskets of fragments remaining. Four thousand men, besides women and children, were thus refreshed.

HLv 272.1

Then with His disciples, Jesus crossed the lake to Magdala. In the border of Tyre and Sidon His spirit had been refreshed by the confiding trust of the Syrophoenician woman. The heathen people of Decapolis had received Him with gladness. Now as He landed once more in Galilee, where most of His works of mercy had been performed, He was met with contemptuous unbelief.

HLv 272.2

The two sects—Pharisees and Sadducees—had been at bitter enmity, but now they united against Christ, asking for a sign from heaven. When Israel went out to battle with the Canaanites at Bethhoron, the sun had stood still at Joshua’s command. Some such sign was demanded of Jesus. But no mere external evidence could benefit them.

HLv 272.3

“O ye hypocrites,” said Jesus, “ye can discern the face of the sky,”—by studying the sky they could foretell the weather—“but can ye not discern the signs of the times?” Christ’s own words, spoken with the power of the Holy Spirit, were the sign God had given. The song of the angels to the shepherds, the star that guided the wise men, the voice from heaven at His baptism were witnesses for Him.

HLv 272.4

“And He sighed deeply in His spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign?” “There shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas.” As the preaching of Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so Christ’s preaching was a sign to His generation. But what a contrast in the reception of the word! The people of the great heathen city humbled themselves; the high and lowly together cried to the God of heaven, and His mercy was granted them. “The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation,” Christ had said, “and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.” Matthew 12:41.

HLv 273.1

Every miracle Christ performed was a sign of His divinity, but to the Pharisees these works of mercy were a positive offense. The Jewish leaders looked with heartless indifference on human suffering. In many cases their oppression had caused the affliction that Christ relieved. Thus His miracles were to them a reproach.

HLv 273.2

That which led the Jews to reject the Saviour was the highest evidence of His divine character: His miracles were for the blessing of humanity. His life revealed the character of God. He did the works and spoke the words of God. Such a life is the greatest of all miracles.

HLv 273.3

Many in our day, like the Jews, cry, Show us a sign; work a miracle. Christ does not impart to us power to vindicate ourselves or satisfy the demands of unbelief and pride. But is it not a miracle that we can break from the bondage of Satan? Enmity against Satan is not natural to the human heart. It is implanted by the grace of God. When one who has been controlled by a stubborn, wayward will yields himself to the drawing of God’s heavenly agencies, a miracle is wrought. So also when a man who has been under strong delusion comes to understand moral truth. The change in human hearts, the transformation of human characters, is a miracle that reveals an ever-living Saviour. In preaching the Word of God, the sign that should be manifest now and always is the presence of the Holy Spirit, to make the Word a regenerating power to those that hear.

HLv 274.1

Turning from the group of cavilers, Jesus reentered the boat with His disciples. In sorrowful silence they again crossed the lake. On reaching the farther side, Jesus said, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.” The Jews had been taught to regard leaven as a type of sin. In their sudden departure from Magdala the disciples had forgotten to take bread. They understood Christ as warning them not to buy bread of a Pharisee or Sadducee. Their lack of spiritual insight often led to misconception of His words.

HLv 274.2

Now Jesus reproved them for thinking that He who had fed thousands with a few fishes and barley loaves could have referred in that solemn warning to merely temporal food. There was danger that the crafty reasoning of the Pharisees and Sadducees would leaven His disciples with unbelief.

HLv 274.4

Leaven works imperceptibly, changing the meal to its own nature. So if hypocrisy is allowed in the heart, it permeates the character and life. A striking example was the practice of Corban, by which a neglect of filial duty was concealed under a pretense of liberality to the temple. The scribes and Pharisees concealed the real tendency of their doctrines, instilling them artfully into the minds of their hearers. This deceptive teaching made it hard for the people to receive the words of Christ.

HLv 274.5

The same influences are working through those who try to explain the law of God to make it conform to their practices. This class do not attack the law openly, but put forward speculative theories that undermine its principles. They explain it so as to destroy its force.

HLv 275.1

The hypocrisy of the Pharisees was the product of self-seeking. This led them to pervert and misapply the Scriptures. This subtle evil even the disciples of Christ were in danger of cherishing. The followers of Jesus were influenced in a great degree by the reasoning of the Pharisees, often vacillating between faith and unbelief. Even the disciples had not in heart ceased to seek great things for themselves. This spirit prompted the strife as to who should be greatest. This made them so little in sympathy with Christ’s mission of self-sacrifice. As leaven will cause corruption, so the self-seeking spirit, cherished, works the defilement and ruin of the soul.

HLv 275.2

Today, as of old, how widespread is this subtle, deceptive sin! How often our service to Christ is marred by the secret desire to exalt self! How ready the thought of self-gratulation and the longing for human approval! The love of self, the desire for an easier way than God has appointed, leads to the substitution of human theories and traditions for the divine precepts.

From Heaven With Love

The True Evidence That Christ Came From God

HLv 273.4

Those who desired a sign from Jesus had hardened their hearts. They would not see that His mission was in fulfillment of the Scriptures. “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” Luke 16:31.

HLv 274.3

The disciples were inclined to think that their Master should have granted the demand for a sign in the heavens. He was able to do this, and such a sign would put His enemies to silence. They did not discern the hypocrisy of the cavilers. Months afterward, Jesus repeated the same teaching. “Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Luke 12:1.

From Heaven With Love

Self-Deception of Egocentric Motivation

HLv 275.3

The religion of Christ is sincerity itself. Zeal for God’s glory is the motive implanted by the Holy Spirit, and only the power of God can banish self-seeking and hypocrisy. This change is the sign of His working. When the faith we accept destroys selfishness and pretense, when it leads us to seek God’s glory and not our own, we may know that it is of the right order. “Father, glorify Thy name” (John 12:28) was the keynote of Christ’s life, and if we follow Him this will be the keynote of our life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

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

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 57, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 57, 1897, par. 10

After much labor, Brother Lawrence has begun to see “men as trees walking.” [Mark 8:24.] The Holy Spirit has been moving upon his heart. Brother Shannon is in Africa. His wife is here in Cooranbong. I think there has been a carnival in the synagogue of Satan, but the Lord is working for us. How it will all terminate, I know not. These people who criticize every little mistake made by others are not fond of having the Lord pass judgment upon them. But enough of this.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 112, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 112, 1897, par. 4

Brother Lawrence did his duty. The Holy Spirit is working upon his mind. He sees some things, but they are like “men as trees walking.” [Mark 8:24.] He has many things to see in an altogether different light. His life has been narrowed down to small items. He has not expanded or ennobled under the influence of truth. The word given to me was, Brother Lawrence is parsimonious. The dictionary will give you the meaning of this word.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 45—The Foreshadowing of the Cross

DA 410.1

The work of Christ on earth was hastening to a close. Before Him, in vivid outline, lay the scenes whither His feet were tending. Even before He took humanity upon Him, He saw the whole length of the path He must travel in order to save that which was lost. Every pang that rent His heart, every insult that was heaped upon His head, every privation that He was called to endure, was open to His view before He laid aside His crown and royal robe, and stepped down from the throne, to clothe His divinity with humanity. The path from the manger to Calvary was all before His eyes. He knew the anguish that would come upon Him. He knew it all, and yet He said, “Lo, I come: in the volume of the Book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:7, 8.

DA 410.2

Ever before Him He saw the result of His mission. His earthly life, so full of toil and self-sacrifice, was cheered by the prospect that He would not have all this travail for nought. By giving His life for the life of men, He would win back the world to its loyalty to God. Although the baptism of blood must first be received; although the sins of the world were to weigh upon His innocent soul; although the shadow of an unspeakable woe was upon Him; yet for the joy that was set before Him, He chose to endure the cross, and despised the shame.

DA 410.3

From the chosen companions of His ministry the scenes that lay before Him were as yet hidden; but the time was near when they must behold His agony. They must see Him whom they had loved and trusted, delivered into the hands of His enemies, and hung upon the cross of Calvary. Soon He must leave them to face the world without the comfort of His visible presence. He knew how bitter hate and unbelief would persecute them, and He desired to prepare them for their trials.

DA 411.1

Jesus and His disciples had now come into one of the towns about Caesarea Philippi. They were beyond the limits of Galilee, in a region where idolatry prevailed. Here the disciples were withdrawn from the controlling influence of Judaism, and brought into closer contact with the heathen worship. Around them were represented forms of superstition that existed in all parts of the world. Jesus desired that a view of these things might lead them to feel their responsibility to the heathen. During His stay in this region, He endeavored to withdraw from teaching the people, and to devote Himself more fully to His disciples.

DA 411.2

He was about to tell them of the suffering that awaited Him. But first He went away alone, and prayed that their hearts might be prepared to receive His words. Upon joining them, He did not at once communicate that which He desired to impart. Before doing this, He gave them an opportunity of confessing their faith in Him that they might be strengthened for the coming trial. He asked, “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?”

DA 411.3

Sadly the disciples were forced to acknowledge that Israel had failed to recognize their Messiah. Some indeed, when they saw His miracles, had declared Him to be the Son of David. The multitudes that had been fed at Bethsaida had desired to proclaim Him king of Israel. Many were ready to accept Him as a prophet; but they did not believe Him to be the Messiah.

DA 411.4

Jesus now put a second question, relating to the disciples themselves: “But whom say ye that I am?” Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

DA 411.5

From the first, Peter had believed Jesus to be the Messiah. Many others who had been convicted by the preaching of John the Baptist, and had accepted Christ, began to doubt as to John’s mission when he was imprisoned and put to death; and they now doubted that Jesus was the Messiah, for whom they had looked so long. Many of the disciples who had ardently expected Jesus to take His place on David’s throne left Him when they perceived that He had no such intention. But Peter and his companions turned not from their allegiance. The vacillating course of those who praised yesterday and condemned today did not destroy the faith of the true follower of the Saviour. Peter declared, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” He waited not for kingly honors to crown his Lord, but accepted Him in His humiliation.

DA 412.1

Peter had expressed the faith of the twelve. Yet the disciples were still far from understanding Christ’s mission. The opposition and misrepresentation of the priests and rulers, while it could not turn them away from Christ, still caused them great perplexity. They did not see their way clearly. The influence of their early training, the teaching of the rabbis, the power of tradition, still intercepted their view of truth. From time to time precious rays of light from Jesus shone upon them, yet often they were like men groping among shadows. But on this day, before they were brought face to face with the great trial of their faith, the Holy Spirit rested upon them in power. For a little time their eyes were turned away from “the things which are seen,” to behold “the things which are not seen.” 2 Corinthians 4:18. Beneath the guise of humanity they discerned the glory of the Son of God.

DA 412.2

Jesus answered Peter, saying, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but My Father which is in heaven.”

DA 412.3

The truth which Peter had confessed is the foundation of the believer’s faith. It is that which Christ Himself has declared to be eternal life. But the possession of this knowledge was no ground for self-glorification. Through no wisdom or goodness of his own had it been revealed to Peter. Never can humanity, of itself, attain to a knowledge of the divine. “It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know?” Job 11:8. Only the spirit of adoption can reveal to us the deep things of God, which “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man.” “God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:9, 10. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him;” and the fact that Peter discerned the glory of Christ was an evidence that he had been “taught of God.” Psalm 25:14; John 6:45. Ah, indeed, “blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee.”

DA 412.4

Jesus continued: “I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” The word Peter signifies a stone,—a rolling stone. Peter was not the rock upon which the church was founded. The gates of hell did prevail against him when he denied his Lord with cursing and swearing. The church was built upon One against whom the gates of hell could not prevail.

DA 413.1

Centuries before the Saviour’s advent Moses had pointed to the Rock of Israel’s salvation. The psalmist had sung of “the Rock of my strength.” Isaiah had written, “Thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.” Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 62:7; Isaiah 28:16. Peter himself, writing by inspiration, applies this prophecy to Jesus. He says, “If ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious: unto whom coming, a living stone, rejected indeed of men, but with God elect, precious, ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house.” 1 Peter 2:3-5, R. V.

DA 413.2

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11. “Upon this rock,” said Jesus, “I will build My church.” In the presence of God, and all the heavenly intelligences, in the presence of the unseen army of hell, Christ founded His church upon the living Rock. That Rock is Himself,—His own body, for us broken and bruised. Against the church built upon this foundation, the gates of hell shall not prevail.

DA 413.3

How feeble the church appeared when Christ spoke these words! There was only a handful of believers, against whom all the power of demons and evil men would be directed; yet the followers of Christ were not to fear. Built upon the Rock of their strength, they could not be overthrown.

DA 413.4

For six thousand years, faith has builded upon Christ. For six thousand years the floods and tempests of satanic wrath have beaten upon the Rock of our salvation; but it stands unmoved.

DA 413.5

Peter had expressed the truth which is the foundation of the church’s faith, and Jesus now honored him as the representative of the whole body of believers. He said, “I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

DA 413.6

“The keys of the kingdom of heaven” are the words of Christ. All the words of Holy Scripture are His, and are here included. These words have power to open and to shut heaven. They declare the conditions upon which men are received or rejected. Thus the work of those who preach God’s word is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Theirs is a mission weighted with eternal results.

DA 414.1

The Saviour did not commit the work of the gospel to Peter individually. At a later time, repeating the words that were spoken to Peter, He applied them directly to the church. And the same in substance was spoken also to the twelve as representatives of the body of believers. If Jesus had delegated any special authority to one of the disciples above the others, we should not find them so often contending as to who should be the greatest. They would have submitted to the wish of their Master, and honored the one whom He had chosen.

DA 414.2

Instead of appointing one to be their head, Christ said to the disciples, “Be not ye called Rabbi;” “neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.” Matthew 23:8, 10.

DA 414.3

“The head of every man is Christ.” God, who put all things under the Saviour’s feet, “gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all.” 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22, 23. The church is built upon Christ as its foundation; it is to obey Christ as its head. It is not to depend upon man, or be controlled by man. Many claim that a position of trust in the church gives them authority to dictate what other men shall believe and what they shall do. This claim God does not sanction. The Saviour declares, “All ye are brethren.” All are exposed to temptation, and are liable to error. Upon no finite being can we depend for guidance. The Rock of faith is the living presence of Christ in the church. Upon this the weakest may depend, and those who think themselves the strongest will prove to be the weakest, unless they make Christ their efficiency. “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” The Lord “is the Rock, His work is perfect.” “Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Jeremiah 17:5; Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 2:12.

DA 414.4

After Peter’s confession, Jesus charged the disciples to tell no man that He was the Christ. This charge was given because of the determined opposition of the scribes and Pharisees. More than this, the people, and even the disciples, had so false a conception of the Messiah that a public announcement of Him would give them no true idea of His character or His work. But day by day He was revealing Himself to them as the Saviour, and thus He desired to give them a true conception of Him as the Messiah.

DA 415.1

The disciples still expected Christ to reign as a temporal prince. Although He had so long concealed His design, they believed that He would not always remain in poverty and obscurity; the time was near when He would establish His kingdom. That the hatred of the priests and rabbis would never be overcome, that Christ would be rejected by His own nation, condemned as a deceiver, and crucified as a malefactor,—such a thought the disciples had never entertained. But the hour of the power of darkness was drawing on, and Jesus must open to His disciples the conflict before them. He was sad as He anticipated the trial.

DA 415.2

Hitherto He had refrained from making known to them anything relative to His sufferings and death. In His conversation with Nicodemus He had said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:14, 15. But the disciples did not hear this, and had they heard, would not have understood. But now they have been with Jesus, listening to His words, beholding His works, until, notwithstanding the humility of His surroundings, and the opposition of priests and people, they can join in the testimony of Peter, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Now the time has come for the veil that hides the future to be withdrawn. “From that time forth began Jesus to show unto His disciples, how that He must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.”

DA 415.3

Speechless with grief and amazement, the disciples listened. Christ had accepted Peter’s acknowledgment of Him as the Son of God; and now His words pointing to His suffering and death seemed incomprehensible. Peter could not keep silent. He laid hold upon his Master, as if to draw Him back from His impending doom, exclaiming, “Be it far from Thee, Lord: this shall not be unto Thee.”

DA 415.4

Peter loved his Lord; but Jesus did not commend him for thus manifesting the desire to shield Him from suffering. Peter’s words were not such as would be a help and solace to Jesus in the great trial before Him. They were not in harmony with God’s purpose of grace toward a lost world, nor with the lesson of self-sacrifice that Jesus had come to teach by His own example. Peter did not desire to see the cross in the work of Christ. The impression which his words would make was directly opposed to that which Christ desired to make on the minds of His followers, and the Saviour was moved to utter one of the sternest rebukes that ever fell from His lips: “Get thee behind Me, Satan: thou art an offense unto Me: for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”

DA 416.1

Satan was trying to discourage Jesus, and turn Him from His mission; and Peter, in his blind love, was giving voice to the temptation. The prince of evil was the author of the thought. His instigation was behind that impulsive appeal. In the wilderness, Satan had offered Christ the dominion of the world on condition of forsaking the path of humiliation and sacrifice. Now he was presenting the same temptation to the disciple of Christ. He was seeking to fix Peter’s gaze upon the earthly glory, that he might not behold the cross to which Jesus desired to turn his eyes. And through Peter, Satan was again pressing the temptation upon Jesus. But the Saviour heeded it not; His thought was for His disciple. Satan had interposed between Peter and his Master, that the heart of the disciple might not be touched at the vision of Christ’s humiliation for him. The words of Christ were spoken, not to Peter, but to the one who was trying to separate him from his Redeemer. “Get thee behind Me, Satan.” No longer interpose between Me and My erring servant. Let Me come face to face with Peter, that I may reveal to him the mystery of My love.

DA 416.2

It was to Peter a bitter lesson, and one which he learned but slowly, that the path of Christ on earth lay through agony and humiliation. The disciple shrank from fellowship with his Lord in suffering. But in the heat of the furnace fire he was to learn its blessing. Long afterward, when his active form was bowed with the burden of years and labors, he wrote, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

DA 416.3

Jesus now explained to His disciples that His own life of self-abnegation was an example of what theirs should be. Calling about Him, with the disciples, the people who had been lingering near, He said, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” The cross was associated with the power of Rome. It was the instrument of the most cruel and humiliating form of death. The lowest criminals were required to bear the cross to the place of execution; and often as it was about to be laid upon their shoulders, they resisted with desperate violence, until they were overpowered, and the instrument of torture was bound upon them. But Jesus bade His followers take up the cross and bear it after Him. To the disciples His words, though dimly comprehended, pointed to their submission to the most bitter humiliation,—submission even unto death for the sake of Christ. No more complete self-surrender could the Saviour’s words have pictured. But all this He had accepted for them. Jesus did not count heaven a place to be desired while we were lost. He left the heavenly courts for a life of reproach and insult, and a death of shame. He who was rich in heaven’s priceless treasure, became poor, that through His poverty we might be rich. We are to follow in the path He trod.

DA 417.1

Love for souls for whom Christ died means crucifixion of self. He who is a child of God should henceforth look upon himself as a link in the chain let down to save the world, one with Christ in His plan of mercy, going forth with Him to seek and save the lost. The Christian is ever to realize that he has consecrated himself to God, and that in character he is to reveal Christ to the world. The self-sacrifice, the sympathy, the love, manifested in the life of Christ are to reappear in the life of the worker for God.

DA 417.2

“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.” Selfishness is death. No organ of the body could live should it confine its service to itself. The heart, failing to send its lifeblood to the hand and the head, would quickly lose its power. As our lifeblood, so is the love of Christ diffused through every part of His mystical body. We are members one of another, and the soul that refuses to impart will perish. And “what is a man profited,” said Jesus, “if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

DA 417.3

Beyond the poverty and humiliation of the present, He pointed the disciples to His coming in glory, not in the splendor of an earthly throne, but with the glory of God and the hosts of heaven. And then, He said, “He shall reward every man according to his works.” Then for their encouragement He gave the promise, “Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in His kingdom.” But the disciples did not comprehend His words. The glory seemed far away. Their eyes were fixed upon the nearer view, the earthly life of poverty, humiliation, and suffering. Must their glowing expectations of the Messiah’s kingdom be relinquished? Were they not to see their Lord exalted to the throne of David? Could it be that Christ was to live a humble, homeless wanderer, to be despised, rejected, and put to death? Sadness oppressed their hearts, for they loved their Master. Doubt also harassed their minds, for it seemed incomprehensible that the Son of God should be subjected to such cruel humiliation. They questioned why He should voluntarily go to Jerusalem to meet the treatment which He had told them He was there to receive. How could He resign Himself to such a fate, and leave them in greater darkness than that in which they were groping before He revealed Himself to them?

DA 418.1

In the region of Caesarea Philippi, Christ was out of the reach of Herod and Caiaphas, the disciples reasoned. He had nothing to fear from the hatred of the Jews or from the power of the Romans. Why not work there, at a distance from the Pharisees? Why need He give Himself up to death? If He was to die, how was it that His kingdom was to be established so firmly that the gates of hell should not prevail against it? To the disciples this was indeed a mystery.

DA 418.2

They were even now journeying along the shores of the Sea of Galilee toward the city where all their hopes were to be crushed. They dared not remonstrate with Christ, but they talked together in low, sorrowful tones in regard to what the future would be. Even amid their questionings they clung to the thought that some unforeseen circumstance might avert the doom which seemed to await their Lord. Thus they sorrowed and doubted, hoped and feared, for six long, gloomy days.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 45—The Foreshadowing of the Cross

HLv 276.1

Even before Christ took humanity upon Him, He saw the whole length of the path He must travel to save that which was lost. Every pang that rent His heart, every insult heaped on His head, every privation He was called to endure was open to His view before He laid aside His crown and royal robe and stepped down from the throne to clothe His divinity with humanity. He knew the anguish that would come upon Him, and yet He said, “Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:7, 8.

HLv 276.2

His earthly life, so full of toil and self-sacrifice, was cheered by the prospect that by giving His life, He would win back the world to its loyalty to God. Although the baptism of blood must first be received; although the sins of the world were to weigh upon His innocent soul; although the shadow of an unspeakable woe was upon Him; yet for the joy set before Him, He chose to endure the cross.

HLv 276.3

The time was near when the chosen companions of His ministry must see Him whom they loved and trusted hung upon the cross of Calvary. Soon He must leave them to face the world without the comfort of His visible presence. Bitter hate and unbelief would persecute them, and He desired to prepare them for their trials.

HLv 276.4

Jesus and His disciples had now come into one of the towns about Caesarea Philippi. They were beyond Galilee, in a region where idolatry prevailed. Around them were represented forms of superstition that existed in all parts of the world. Jesus desired that a view of these things might lead the disciples to feel their responsibility to the heathen.

HLv 277.1

He was about to tell them of the suffering that awaited Him. But first He prayed that their hearts might be prepared to receive His words. He did not at once communicate that which He desired to impart, but gave them opportunity to confess their faith in Him. He asked, “Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?”

HLv 277.2

Sadly the disciples acknowledged that Israel had failed to recognize their Messiah. The multitudes at Bethsaida had desired to proclaim Him king of Israel. Many were ready to accept Him as a prophet, but they did not believe Him to be the Messiah.

HLv 277.3

Jesus now put a second question, relating to the disciples themselves: “But whom say ye that I am?” Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

HLv 277.4

From the first, Peter had believed Jesus to be the Messiah. Many others who had accepted Christ began to doubt as to John’s mission when he was imprisoned and put to death, and they now doubted that Jesus was the Messiah. Many who had expected Jesus to take His place on David’s throne left Him when they perceived that He had no such intention. But the vacillating course of those who praised yesterday and condemned today did not destroy the faith of the true follower of the Saviour. Peter declared, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” He waited not for kingly honors to crown his Lord, but accepted Him in His humiliation.

HLv 277.5

Peter had expressed the faith of the Twelve. Yet the opposition of the priests and rulers still caused them great perplexity. They did not see their way clearly. Their early training, the teaching of the rabbis, the power of tradition, still intercepted their view of truth. Precious rays of light shone on them, yet often they were like men groping among shadows. But on this day, the Holy Spirit rested on them in power. Beneath the guise of humanity they discerned the glory of the Son of God.

HLv 278.1

Jesus answered Peter, saying, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but My Father which is in heaven.”

HLv 278.2

The truth which Peter had confessed is the foundation of the believer’s faith. But through no wisdom or goodness of his own had it been revealed to Peter. The fact that Peter discerned the glory of Christ was an evidence that he had been “taught of God.” See Psalm 25:14; John 6:45.

HLv 278.3

Jesus continued: “I say also unto thee, Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” The word Peter signifies a stone—a rolling stone. Peter was not the rock on which the church was founded. The gates of hell did prevail against him when he denied his Lord with cursing and swearing. The church was built on One against whom the gates of hell could not prevail.

HLv 278.4

Moses had pointed to the Rock of Israel’s salvation. See Deuteronomy 32:4. The psalmist had sung of “the rock of my strength.” Psalm 62:7. Isaiah had written, “Thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, ... a sure foundation.” Isaiah 28:16. Peter himself applies this prophecy to Jesus: “For you have tasted the kindness of the Lord. Come to Him, to that living stone, rejected by men but in God’s sight chosen and precious; and like living stones be yourselves built into a spiritual house.” 1 Peter 2:3-5, RSV. “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:11. “Upon this rock,” said Jesus, “I will build My church.” Christ founded His church on the living Rock—Himself, His own body, for us broken and bruised. Against the church built on this foundation, the gates of hell shall not prevail.

HLv 279.1

How feeble the church appeared when Christ spoke these words! There was only a handful of believers, against whom the power of demons and men would be directed, yet they were not to fear; they could not be overthrown.

HLv 279.2

Peter had expressed the truth which is the foundation of the church’s faith, and Jesus now honored him as the representative of the body of believers. “I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

HLv 279.3

“The keys of the kingdom of heaven” are the words of Christ. All the words of Holy Scripture are His. These words have power to open and to shut heaven. The work of those who preach God’s Word is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death.

HLv 279.4

The Saviour did not commit the work of the gospel to Peter individually. Later, repeating the words spoken to Peter, He applied them to the church, and also to the Twelve as representatives of the body of believers. If Jesus had delegated any special authority to one disciple above the others, we should not find them so often contending as to who should be the greatest. They would have honored the one chosen. Instead of appointing one to be their head, Christ said, “Be not ye called Rabbi.” “Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.” Matthew 23:8, 10.

HLv 279.5

“The head of every man is Christ.” God, who put all things under the Saviour’s feet, “gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all.” 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22, 23. The church is built on Christ as its foundation. It is not to depend on man or be controlled by man. Many claim that a position of trust in the church gives them authority to dictate what other men shall believe and do. The Saviour declares, “All ye are brethren.” Matthew 23:8. Upon no finite being can we depend for guidance. The Rock of faith is the living presence of Christ in the church. Those who think themselves the strongest will prove to be the weakest, unless they make Christ their efficiency. See Jeremiah 17:5; Psalm 2:12.

HLv 280.1

Jesus charged the disciples to tell no man that He was the Christ. The people, and even the disciples, had so false a conception of the Messiah that a public announcement would give them no true idea of His character or work.

HLv 280.2

The disciples still expected Christ to reign as a temporal prince. They believed that He would not always remain in obscurity and that the time was near when He would establish His kingdom. That Christ would be rejected by His own nation, condemned as a deceiver, and crucified as a malefactor—such a thought the disciples had never entertained. Jesus must open to His disciples the conflict before them. He was sad as He anticipated the trial.

HLv 280.4

Speechless with grief and amazement, the disciples listened. Christ had accepted Peter’s acknowledgment of Him as the Son of God, and now His words pointing to His suffering and death seemed incomprehensible. Peter could not keep silent. He laid hold on his Master, as if to draw Him back from His impending doom: “Be it far from Thee, Lord: this shall not be unto Thee.”

HLv 281.1

Peter loved his Lord; but Jesus did not commend him for the desire to shield Him from suffering. Peter’s words were not a help and solace to Jesus in the great trial before Him. They were not in harmony with God’s purpose of grace toward a lost world, nor with the lesson of self-sacrifice that Jesus had come to teach by His own example. The impression which his words would make was directly opposed to that which Christ desired to make on the minds of His followers, and the Saviour was moved to utter one of the sternest rebukes that ever fell from His lips: “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a hindrance to Me; for you are not on the side of God, but of men.” RSV.

HLv 281.2

Satan was trying to discourage Jesus and turn Him from His mission, and Peter was giving voice to the temptation. The prince of evil, the author of the thought, was behind that impulsive appeal. Satan had offered Christ the dominion of the world on condition of forsaking the path of humiliation and sacrifice. Now he was seeking to fix Peter’s gaze on earthly glory, that he might not behold the cross. Through Peter, he was again pressing the temptation on Jesus.

HLv 281.3

But the Saviour heeded it not; His thought was for His disciple. Satan had interposed between Peter and his Master. The words of Christ were spoken to the one trying to separate him from his Redeemer: “Get behind Me, Satan.” Let Me come face to face with Peter, that I may reveal to him the mystery of My love.

HLv 282.1

Jesus now explained to His disciples that His own life of self-abnegation was an example of what theirs should be: “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” The cross, associated with the power of Rome, was the most cruel and humiliating form of death. Criminals were required to bear the cross to the place of execution. Often as it was laid on their shoulders, they resisted with desperate violence, until they were overpowered. To the disciples Jesus’ words, though dimly comprehended, pointed to their submission to death for the sake of Christ.

HLv 282.2

No more complete self-surrender could the Saviour’s words have pictured. But all this He had accepted for them. He left the heavenly courts for a life of reproach and insult, and a death of shame. He who was rich in heaven’s priceless treasure, became poor, that through His poverty we might be rich. We are to follow in the path He trod.

HLv 282.3

Love for souls means crucifixion of self. He who is a child of God should look on himself as a link in the chain let down to save the world, one with Christ, going forth with Him to seek and save the lost. The Christian has consecrated himself to God, and in character he is to reveal Christ to the world.

HLv 282.4

“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.” Selfishness is death. The heart, failing to send its lifeblood to the hand and the head, would quickly lose its power. So is the love of Christ diffused through every part of His mystical body. We are members one of another, and the soul that refuses to impart will perish. “What is a man profited,” said Jesus, “if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

HLv 282.5

Christ pointed the disciples to His coming in glory with the hosts of heaven. Then He said, “He shall reward every man according to his works.” And for their encouragement He promised, “Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in His kingdom.”

HLv 283.1

But the disciples did not comprehend His words. Their eyes were fixed on the poverty, humiliation, and suffering. Were they not to see their Lord exalted to the throne of David? Could it be that Christ was to be despised, rejected, and put to death? Sadness oppressed their hearts, for it seemed incomprehensible that the Son of God should be subjected to such cruel humiliation. Why should He voluntarily go to Jerusalem to meet the treatment He was there to receive? How could He resign Himself to such a fate, and leave them in greater darkness than they were groping in before He revealed Himself to them?

HLv 283.2

In the region of Caesarea Philippi, the disciples reasoned that Christ had nothing to fear from the hatred of the Jews or from the power of the Romans. Why not work there? Why give Himself up to death? If He was to die, how could His kingdom be established so firmly that the gates of hell should not prevail against it? This was indeed a mystery.

HLv 283.3

They were even now journeying toward the city where all their hopes were to be crushed. They talked together in low, sorrowful tones in regard to the future. Perhaps some unforeseen circumstance might avert the doom which seemed to await their Lord. Thus they doubted, hoped, and feared for six long, gloomy days.

From Heaven With Love

The Disciples Had Not Envisioned a Cross to Come

HLv 280.3

Hitherto He had refrained from making known to them anything relative to His sufferings and death. In His conversation with Nicodemus He had said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:14, 15. But the disciples did not hear this. Now the time had come for the veil that hid the future to be withdrawn: “From that time forth began Jesus to show unto His disciples, how He must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.”

From Heaven With Love

Satan Was Trying to Get at Christ

HLv 281.4

It was a bitter lesson, which Peter learned but slowly: the path of Christ lay through agony and humiliation. But in the heat of the furnace fire the disciple was to learn its blessing. Long afterward he wrote, “Rejoice in so far as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:13, RSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 26, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 26, 1885, par. 56

We were glad when Kopparberg was reached. We were given the same rooms we occupied October 22 on our way from Stockholm to Grythyttehed. We have had a good night’s rest; and if it were not for this congestion of the lungs which afflicts me, I should think I was enduring the journey well. We had a breakfast, not very acceptable, but I have no appetite and only eat because I must. We arrived at about three o’clock. Found Brother Johnson waiting for us. It was raining and no carriage was waiting for us and we walked in the rain three quarters of a mile to our stopping place. I should have been left to walk one mile to the meeting had I not told Brother Matteson I could not and should not dare to attempt it. After walking from the depot my heart beat violently. My pulse increased to one hundred, and I felt quite ill. I would not venture this experience again. A carriage was obtained to take me to and from the meeting. The small hall was crowded to its utmost capacity. I spoke from (Mark 8:31) to close of chapter. I had freedom in speaking. Was depressed as I saw the narrow calculations made to obtain a suitable hall to accommodate the people. I will do my part; and if my brethren fail to do their part, then it will be their error, not mine. In Copenhagen and Stockholm I am convinced I could have had a good hearing if our brethren had planned for it, but they did not expect much and did not get much.

Last Day Events

Chapter 1—Earth’s Last Crisis

LDE 13.3

Before His crucifixion the Saviour explained to His disciples that He was to be put to death and to rise again from the tomb, and angels were present to impress His words on minds and hearts. [See Mark 8:31, 32; 9:31; 10:32-34.] But the disciples were looking for temporal deliverance from the Roman yoke, and they could not tolerate the thought that He in whom all their hopes centered should suffer an ignominious death. The words which they needed to remember were banished from their minds, and when the time of trial came it found them unprepared. The death of Jesus as fully destroyed their hopes as if He had not forewarned them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 102a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 102a, 1897, par. 7

When Jesus began to open the future to His disciples, and showed that He must bear suffering, endure scoffing, mocking, [and] the crown of thorns; that He must be scourged and crucified, the picture was unpleasant to Peter. He rebuked his Lord for holding up such a picture. “Be it far from thee, Lord,” he said. [Matthew 16:22.] Wesley translates this, “Favor thyself, Lord.” Our Saviour’s words to Peter seem to be very severe. “Get thee behind me, Satan,” He said, “thou art an offence unto me.” [Verse 23.] These words were not directed, as is supposed, to Peter, but to Satan, who was implanting his insinuations in the mind of Peter. The words were understood by the wily foe: “Get thee behind Me, Satan. Why interpose yourself between My servant and Me? Let Me come to Peter with My words, not your suggestions.” “Thou savorest,” said Christ to tempted Peter: “not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” [Mark 8:33.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 202, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 202, 1899, par. 7

The words of commendation spoken to Peter were quickly followed by a stern rebuke. Christ turned to him saying, “Get thee behind me, Satan; for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” [Mark 8:33.] Peter’s first words had been inspired by God; but in denying that Christ would suffer and idle, he was giving voice to Satan’s suggestions; and Christ’s rebuke was addressed to Satan, who was tempting Peter to contradict.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 257, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, par. 13

Sometimes you talk for hours when you are in no condition to talk. These long talks are entirely different from the spirit and methods of the great Medical Missionary. At such times you are imbued with a spirit that is utterly opposed to God. The spirit and method of these long talks should not be encouraged. You suppose that your power of speech will accomplish wonderful things, but often your suggestion should be met with the words, “Get thee behind me, Satan; for thou savorest not the things that be of God.” [Mark 8:33.]

Counsels on Health

Christ Our Example

CH 511.2

Study Christ’s definition of a true missionary, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34. Following Christ, as spoken of in these words, is not a pretense, a farce. Jesus expects His disciples to follow closely in His footsteps, enduring what He endured, suffering what He suffered, overcoming as He overcame. He is anxiously waiting to see His professed followers revealing the spirit of self-sacrifice.

The Upward Look

Today Is the Day of Salvation, February 4

UL 49.3

God calls at this time for skillful workers who will always be found on the side of the Chief Worker. We must have truth in the heart, and love for Christ. “Whosoever will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). We have each an individual work to do in denying self and in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 150, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 150, 1900, par. 12

Those to whom the Lord has entrusted much are to trade intelligently on their Lord’s goods, that out of the treasury of the heart they may bring forth good things. In order to do this they must treat the stomach carefully, for if the stomach is a cesspool, the brain is congested and the temper is unpleasant. God has made known the conditions of salvation: “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Word declares what this involves—the surrender of all the capabilities to Christ, to be sanctified through His grace and employed in His service. There is to be no wasting, no embezzling of the Lord’s goods; for this is robbery toward God. It is a perilous matter for us to use inconsiderately the powers entrusted to us. It is our duty to give God a pure, unpolluted service. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 113, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 113, 1901, par. 24

Let us bring all the pleasantness possible into the sacred work of God. This will make our words precious. Christ said, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] We need more faith, more hope, more courage, more thanksgiving. We may hold genuine communion with Christ. This blessedness expands, becoming the joy of a glorified experience, helping all to better understand the words, “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” [Revelation 2:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 130, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 35

What efforts are we putting forth as the believers of unpopular truth, in self-denial, in self-sacrifice? We can never equal the Pattern because it is infinite goodness practiced in His human nature, just as we should make determined efforts to practice in our human nature with all the powers of our being to follow His example. Hear His words: He that “will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Having given His life to save the world from ruin, they would be saved in God’s way in obeying the laws of His kingdom. He, the Lifegiver, expects all His followers to be faithful stewards of the grace of God, and to live for the same object, to do according to His appointed will, to be His human helping hand to save perishing souls.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 19, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 44

Christ has spoken to the whole world, saying, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross”—and run ahead of Me in his manner of ministering? No—“follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 85, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 20

“Learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] There is to be a learning. You are to study Christ’s words. Step by step you are to follow in His footsteps. But there is something else to do. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and”—follow Me?—No; “let him deny himself,”—and what?—“and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] How many of us are willing to take up the cross—to be partakers with Christ of His suffering and follow Him through cloud as well as sunshine? How many of us will realize indeed that true rest is found in taking up the yoke of Christ? By yoking up with Christ, we shall find rest; for He has covenanted with us to give us rest. In this rest there is a blessedness of more value than gold and silver and precious stones. It will fit you for any position in life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 105, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, par. 16

Those who are saved must travel the same road over which Christ journeyed. He says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The character is to be formed according to the Christ-likeness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 103, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, par. 5

The Doctor’s ideas in regard to what constitutes the practice of true religion need to be changed. The science of religion is explained by the Lord Jesus, Himself the author and finisher of our faith, in the words, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] He declares that at every step sacrifices will have to be made.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 21, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 21, 1901, par. 39

The Saviour said, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Let those who claim to be teaching the gospel of truth reveal by their lives that they have accepted the yoke of Christ, that they have complied with the invitation, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 134, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 134, 1901, par. 34

The religion of Christ never degrades the receiver, never makes him coarse or rough or uncourteous. It never incapacitates him for imparting that which he has received. The truth as it is in Jesus is warm with love and comfort. 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. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] These words are spoken to every one who desires to be a Christian. Shunning self-denial and the cross, you shun the reward promised to the faithful.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 183, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, par. 9

Christ has made every provision that we shall reach the ideal set before us. He left his exalted position in heaven, laying aside his royal robe and kingly crown, and clothing his divinity with humanity, that he might help those in need of help. He became poor that we might come into possession of eternal riches. He says to us, “Whoever will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] These are the terms of discipleship.

The Upward Look

Stand Fast in the Faith, February 24

UL 69.2

I pray that the people of God may not cast aside the peculiarities of their faith. Christ is glorified by a life of constant, well-defined faith. Paul declares, “The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). Christ is to be glorified by the living, working faith of His people. The just shall live by faith. Christ has not left His people to stumble along in darkness. He has marked out the way before them. He says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). It is along the path of self-denial, the royal highway cast up by the Redeemer, that God’s people are to travel.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 40, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 40, 1902, par. 18

Let us be more diligent in trying to lead others to the Lord. Let us be more willing to work as Christ and the disciples worked. The Saviour says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 94, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 94, 1902, par. 17

The apostle calls their attention to their fault in this respect, which has become their spiritual infirmity. Their misconceptions gave them an indistinct view of Christ’s power to make His people a praise in the earth. How exactly their condition represents the condition of many of the people of God today, who have had every advantage, every privilege, and who, feeling the burden of God’s work, ought to say with the whole heart, “Here I am, Lord; send me. What wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6; Isaiah 6:8.] But in the place of being teachers, as they might be, they do not fully discern or appreciate the value of Bible truth. They cannot bear the application of the plain requirements of Scripture. They are not a strength to the church. They are only hindrances. Had they thoroughly consecrated themselves to the Lord from their first reception of the truth, surrendering themselves unreservedly to Him, and obeying the call, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” [Mark 8:34], they would have walked in the companionship of Christ, learning His lessons, receiving His divine impress. They would have realized the claims of Christ, and would not have been half Christians and half worldlings, but wholehearted Christians, believing and practicing the Word, enlightened continually, not dwelling on vague generalities, but taking their position fully on the side of Christ, recognizing Him as the Teacher from heaven, whose words they must understand and practice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 39, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 39, 1902, par. 8

“Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] When this injunction is obeyed, those who accept the truth will not be led in false paths, even though those who enlightened them in regard to the truth choose the wide gate and the broad road. You are in positive danger of refusing to deny self. At times, when you are under the special influence of the Spirit of God, you feel that you could die for the Saviour. But you allow counterworking influences to control you. You allow human appetites and passions to bear sway. The root of all true self-sacrifice is an affection for the Lord Jesus so strong that it makes the wearing of His yoke easy and pleasant, and leads men to choose to learn His meekness and lowliness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 49, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 49, 1902, par. 31

While we are to be economical, we are not to carry economy to excess. It is one of the sad, strange things in life that great mistakes are <sometimes> made in carrying the virtue of self-sacrifice to an extreme. It is possible for the Lord’s workers to be presumptuous and to carry too far the self-sacrifice that prompts them to go without sufficient food and without sufficient clothing, in order that they may make every dollar go as far as possible. Some laborers overwork, and do without things they ought to have, because there is not enough money in the treasury to sustain the number of workers that ought to be in the field. There would be more money if all would work in accordance with Christ’s injunction: “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 48, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 48, 1902, par. 13

There are thousands to be reached by the truth. There are thousands who are to receive Christ as a personal Saviour. Greater New York must be worked on an altogether more economical plan than the plan on which you have been working. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Talk the truth, live the truth. Walk before God in all humility of mind and in all simplicity of action. Let the angels see that you love God, and that you practice the humility of Christ. This all must do who enter the courts of the Lord. In this life they must walk in the new and precious way that Christ has provided for His followers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 200, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 200, 1902, par. 14

All this humiliation Christ chose to endure, that from His example man might learn not to exalt himself. Christ humbled Himself; and what does He say to us? “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 165, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 165, 1902, par. 10

Are you individually able to say, “I am laboring together with Jesus Christ; I have chosen to do His will, not mine”? He declares: “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] This is the condition of discipleship. What are you doing to save souls from ruin, to restore God’s image in man?

17LtMs, Ms 165, 1902, par. 32

Jesus says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] This is the condition of discipleship. As the Saviour went about doing good, He showed the power of a holy temper and unselfish deeds.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 80, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 80, 1903, par. 32

Christ asks for our love. Does He not deserve it? Has not He given us instruction at every step? He says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] He bore the cross of self-denial and self-sacrifice. He passed over the ground where Adam fell. Our first parents were placed in Eden and surrounded with everything that would lead them to obey God. Christ assumed our fallen nature and was subject to every temptation to which man is subject. Even in is childhood He was often tempted. Through life He remained unyielding to every inducement to commit sin. When in His youth His associates would try to lead Him to do wrong, He would begin to sing some sweet melody, and the first thing they knew they were uniting with Him in singing the song. They caught His spirit, and the enemy was defeated. Ah, my friends, Christ is the Chiefest among ten thousand. Praise the name of the Lord!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 129, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 129, 1903, par. 14

Christ reached out for all to whom He could open the treasures of heavenly wisdom. His ministers are to follow His example. “Whosoever will come after Me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] God’s workers are to be instant in season and out of season. They are not to depend on regularly appointed meetings as the only means of working for souls. At all times and in all places they are to seek for those ready to perish.

The Upward Look

Preparing for Heaven, June 25

UL 190.4

We are not to stumble along in uncertainty. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). As we advance, we become used to following. The path of life shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 41, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 41, 1903, par. 8

Christ has not left His people to stumble along in darkness. He has marked out the way before them. He says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] It is along the path of self-denial, the royal highway cast up by the Redeemer, that God’s people are to travel.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 83, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 83, 1903, par. 21

Christ has said, “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. So shall he be My disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.] Who will accept as the definition of a true missionary, the definition given by Christ in His own words? That which is spoken of here is not a pretended or farcical following of Jesus. He requires His disciples to follow closely in His footsteps, enduring what He endured, suffering what He suffered. He is anxiously waiting to see His professed followers manifest a self-sacrificing spirit.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 303, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 303, 1903, par. 29

The cross of Christ, with all its record of the Saviour’s humiliation, stands before you. Saith Christ, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] To all such will He give grace and strength. He will be unto them as One who is compassionate and lovely. He it is who gives the invitation, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 188, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 188, 1903, par. 31

We want, that as a band of Christians—as the whole power of darkness is arrayed against us to counterwork our efforts—we want to lay hold of the hope that is set before us in the gospel that we shall take hold of the power of Jesus Christ, and that that power will be behind us in our work. The Lord Jesus will be working with us, that we can be a power in our home. That is what we want. And then here, we are fitting for the mansions that God has gone to prepare for us. We can have a happy home, if we want it. And what a consolation it is to know that we can indeed place our feet right in the footprints of Christ. “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. So shall ye be My disciples.” [See Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 6, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 6, 1903, par. 36

Shall we not learn to obey Christ? To those who desire to follow Him, He says: “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Many respond coldly to His invitation. But He will not accept half-hearted service. He withheld no part of the price, but gave Himself as a whole offering, a sacrifice fragrant with the incense of His righteousness, which has ascended to God as a sweet-smelling savour. And His complete sacrifice was made to redeem poor, sinful mortals. What self-sacrifice are we practicing for His sake? The life of every one whose character is being fashioned after the divine similitude is, in word and deed, fragrant with the rich perfume of Christlike love.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 149, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 149, 1903, par. 7

Will you not obey the words of Christ, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me”? [Mark 8:34.] The Saviour will help those who will do what they can to help themselves. Let those who are not converted seek the Lord most earnestly, that they may have clean, pure hearts, and faith to lay hold of the help that Christ is waiting to give them. Follow the light of God’s Word, and you will have clear light and precious consolation. Christ will help you if you will deny the selfish inclinations that Satan wants you to gratify. The enemy wants to weaken your spirituality and to confuse your perceptions of righteousness and truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 189, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 189, 1903, par. 10

If you enter heaven, you will never set your stakes that you are going to be worldly, and you are going to have all the conveniences, and you are going to have all that you desire in this life, and then you will have a transport to the future immortal life. No, you will do just as Christ did. “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. So shall he be My disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.] The Lord of life and glory humbled Himself, and the Lord requires that everyone that shall enter in through the gates into the city of God shall be a partaker with Christ of His self-denial and of His self-sacrifice. And what then? A crown of life will He bestow upon everyone that will live the life of self-denial and self-sacrifice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 255, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 255, 1903, par. 15

Study Christ’s definition of a true missionary: “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Following Christ as spoken of in these words is not a pretense, a farce. Jesus expects His disciples to follow closely in His footsteps, enduring what He endured, suffering what He suffered, overcoming as He overcame. He is anxiously waiting to see His professed followers revealing the spirit of self-sacrifice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 121, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 121, 1903, par. 9

We are not to stumble along in uncertainty. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] As we advance, we become used to following. The path of life shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 307, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 307, 1903, par. 10

“All who will come after Me let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We are amid the perils of the last days.

This Day With God

Heaven Begins Here, February 18

TDG 57.5

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love, and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 153, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 22

Oh, how many are wrestling in this world to get a standing above somebody else, when they would be happy if they would be humble, meek, and lowly. Christ said, “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 38, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 38, 1904, par. 93

“He that will come after Me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] But many who were baptized into the likeness of the death of Christ were buried alive. They have never, never died to self. They are today cringing and bowing before some earthly idol. They are so far from God that they do not know that they are living in spiritual adultery.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 91, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 10

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus. They are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his common citizen-dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in thither not having on a wedding garment?” he could answer nothing. [Matthew 22:12.] He was speechless; for he was self-condemned.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 63, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, par. 19

The work of God for these last days is to be carried forward in self-denial and sacrifice. “Whosoever will come after Me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Majesty of heaven laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity. For our sake He became poor, that through His poverty we might be made rich, and throughout the eternal ages, be partakers of the far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 131, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, par. 19

He who holds true communion with God has no relish for the low and commonplace, for transient delights and indulgence. Under the molding influence of the Holy Spirit, he reveals a preference for better things. He who has drunk of the pure fountain of living water will take no delight in the muddy, turbulent streams of earth. A temporal, artificial satisfaction is all that world lovers obtain. Those who sell their hope of heaven for so slight a reward will be deemed unworthy of the life that measures with the life of God. Jesus said, “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 26, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 26, 1905, par. 13

“He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Lord Jesus will be with those who follow Him in self-denial and self-sacrificing effort. He will give strength and success to those who do His work in His own appointed way. Like Abraham, they will be blessed, that they may be a blessing to the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 188, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 188, 1905, par. 24

Verse 7. “as he is in the light.” You see it is our privilege, God wants us. Christ said, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We have a living Christ, who says, “If I go to My Father, then I will send you the Comforter.” [See John 16:7.] Well, the Holy Spirit of God is to come to us in power, as soon as we have faith to embrace it, as soon as we recognize it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 354, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 354, 1905, par. 14

The twelfth and thirteenth chapters of First Corinthians are in need of study and application to the members of the church, for the continuous humbling of individual self and taking self critically in hand. This is the beginning—self-examination. The very first step is to heed the words of Christ, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross” (Mark 8:34), not lay his cross on somebody else to carry. Each is to bear his own cross of self-denial and self-humiliation and self-sacrifice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 46, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 46, 1905, par. 13

We are entering upon troublous times, but let us not take our eyes off our Leader. “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] “Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples.” [John 15:8.] Let us walk as Christ has given us example. As we see people in the darkness of error, let us seek to draw their minds to Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 89, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 89, 1906, par. 13

Many who profess to be disciples of Christ know not the path in which He traveled. They have lost sight of Him who said, “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Men are not called by God to care for the spiritual health of His church until they have put on the yoke of Christ and learned His meekness and lowliness of heart. It is by wearing His yoke that men will be fitted for great and noble deeds. It is through the influence of the Holy Spirit, and by looking unto Jesus, who gave His life that we might be fashioned after God’s own image, that we shall be changed into His likeness.

This Day With God

In His Steps, February 29

TDG 68.3

Christ declares that as He lived, so we are to live. “Whosoever will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). His footsteps lead along the pathway of sacrifice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 395, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 395, 1906, par. 7

“He that will come after me,” Christ says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me; so shall he be My disciple.” [See Mark 8:34; John 15:8.] Christ wants you to consider every step you take. Lay your plans before your brethren; counsel with them, and counsel with God, and you will make no mistakes. Then it will never be said of you that you followed your own way and will to the injury of the work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 192, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 192, 1906, par. 4

Yesterday I had a long visit as I rode out with Brother and Sister Howell. Brother Howell is very desirous of knowing how to plan for the educational work with which he is connected, so that no mistakes may be made. I told him that the Lord will lead all who are willing to be led. The Bible is our safe guidebook. Said Christ, “He that will come after Me, let him ... take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 332, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 332, 1906, par. 7

“Whosoever will come after Me,” says Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] This He asks for our safety and our happiness. As we closely follow Jesus, we become true laborers together with God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 119, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 119, 1906, par. 47

“Verily I say unto thee today, (as you see Me condemned as a criminal, abused by men), Thou shalt be with Me in paradise.” [Verse 43.] Do you know what that meant to the devil that was there? It was the knell, his death knell, that right in His dying agony He could speak pardon to that poor thief upon the cross. Oh, that was one of the greatest manifestations, while priests and rulers were wagging their heads, and saying, Come down, come down from the cross, until the earthquake came, and they scattered, and they were afraid that they themselves would suffer. But here was the mercy of Christ. Let us, every one, exercise in all our works and acts the mercy, the love, of Christ. Let us take into consideration there is a world to be saved, and we want our spirit braced for duty; we want our hearts in conformity to the will of Jesus Christ; we want that love that He prayed might exist between whom?—between these His followers, that existed between Him and His Father. Now here is your lesson. Here is your lesson. Learn it, practice it in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Study, study, I beg of you, self-denial; for there is a world to save. The work is opening in the foreign countries in a wonderful manner, but we do not take advantage as we should of those that are right around us, and give the Word of life in readings and in different ways to bring the truth before them. The publications are to be distributed, like the leaves of autumn; and the messages have come to you for year after year, and year after year, and what are we doing for the Master who gave His life for us? You have got His last prayer. Will we read that prayer? Will we practice that prayer? Will we be getting ready to walk in a heavenly atmosphere, and to take our steps after Christ? “He that will come after Me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] There are some doing it, I know it. I feel a most intense interest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 38, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, par. 3

God calls at this time for skilful workers who will always be found on the side of the Chief Worker. We must have truth in the heart and love for Christ. “He that will come after Me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We have each an individual work to do in denying self and in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 109, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, par. 48

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus; they are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his citizen’s dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost, he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in hither not having on the wedding garment?” he could answer nothing; for he was self-condemned. [Matthew 22:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 142, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, par. 14

What saith the Lord Jesus whom God gave to the world? “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] These are the terms of His discipleship. This gives evidence of true conversion—if they do this from the heart. The blood of Jesus with all the fragrance of His excellent name will bring the self-sacrificing, believing souls into close relationship with Him. He shares with us all He has, and will we share with Him all our precious things and become identified with Him?

To Be Like Jesus

True Christians Focus on Christ, Not Self, December 2

BLJ 354.1

When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34, NKJV.

Letters to Physicians and Ministers

A Call for Christlike Workers

SpTB01 22.4

Christ came to this earth and lived for us the life that every one must live who is granted an entrance into the city of God. He says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34. The failure of our young physicians to obey this word is the great hindrance to their success in God’s work. Among our young physicians there are those who need to be thoroughly converted before they connect with sanitarium work. Unless they are greatly changed, they would exert an influence that is counter to the influence the Lord would have exerted in these institutions.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 2, 1877

3LtMs, Ms 2, 1877, par. 10

It would be well if a pledge of temperance in dress could be presented for our women to sign and to observe. The intoxicating influence of extravagance and display in dress has so degrading an effect upon the minds of many women, that such a measure would seem justifiable and reasonable. Thousands are unfitted for the every-day duties of domestic life, because of this mania for dress. Their children, who are a precious trust to them from God, are neglected and grow up without proper care and attention, obtaining too often an education in vice. Prayer in the closet is abandoned, the Word of God is left unread, and there is no time nor aptitude for religious meditation. Said Christ, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who are attracted to Christ and who live for the future immortal life will not be slaves of fashion.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 46, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 46, 1886, par. 6

Every church should be a working church. We should make ourselves useful and do the little duties around us and that will prepare us for the greater responsibilities. When Christ ascended on high, He left His disciples to carry forward the work. However unpleasant it may be, we should take up the humble duties of life. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34. What is the cross of Christ? It is not an ornament to the neck, but something that cuts right across our pathway. Satan is constantly watching for our souls. He seeks to lead us from the cross of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 27, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 27, 1890, par. 16

We are to keep increasing in wisdom. The more experience we gain in doing the will of the Lord, the better will we understand what the cross of Calvary means to us. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We shall find that as we lift the cross, it lifts us. Fallen human beings can be converted and transformed only by following where Christ leads the way. Justice says, “Let him alone; he is joined to his idols.” [Hosea 4:17.] Christ says, “Let him come to Me, and live. I will pardon his transgressions. Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 55:3; 27:5.]

Counsels on Health

Avoid Outward Display

CH 590.1

Humility, self-denial, benevolence, and the payment of a faithful tithe, these show that the grace of God is working in the heart. The greatest Teacher, the greatest Physician the world has ever known, gave many lessons on the need of humility. These lessons His followers are to bring into the practical life. They are to live lives of self-denial and self-sacrifice. To many this will be a new experience, but on it their salvation depends. “Whosoever will come after Me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34. Following Christ produces the virtues of Christ’s character. Humility is a precious grace, peculiarly pleasing to God. Christ says, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29. Those who follow Christ will overcome temptation and will receive the glorious reward of eternal life. And to Christ they will render all the praise and glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 16e, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 16e, 1892, par. 32

Christians, in deed and in truth, will have the spirit of Christ. They will naturally develop the mind and spirit which dwelt in Christ. They will contemplate [the] solemn import of the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me, so shall he be my disciple.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 25, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 25, 1894, par. 7

Our diet is not to consist of expensive food, or of unnecessary dishes which require time and strength for preparation. It is profitable for us to consider the time in which we are living. We shall be called upon to engage in enterprises that will work for the salvation of the souls of men, women, and children. We must do this work in the spirit which Christ exercised in His mission, fulfilling the word of God. These words have been kept before me for several nights: “He that will come after me, (follow in My footsteps) let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. So shall he be my disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 16, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 16, 1894, par. 25

“That all men through him should believe.” [John 1:7.] Now we see that everyone may believe if they will only take the Word of God and be obedient to it. John was not that light, but was sent to prepare the way. Oh, the precious light there is in Jesus Christ! I say it in the morning, I say it in the night, I say it all the hours of the day. Precious, precious Jesus, who gave His life! God forbid that I should make Him ashamed by the character I present to the world. We read that He was not ashamed to call us brethren. [Hebrews 2:11.] “He was in the world and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.” [John 1:10.] Do you want to link hands with the world and consult its habits and customs and practices? We cannot do this and win souls away from the world or enlist in the army of Christ. “He came unto his own and his own received him not.” [Verse 11.] And therefore Christ says, “It was for you to have received the word of life.” But since we have not received it, what then? Why, “we turn to the Gentiles.” [Acts 13:46.] Those that hear the Word of God may receive it if they will, but it is a cross. These crosses must be lifted. You cannot trample them under your feet. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 20, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 30

If God has estimated man of such value that he would not withhold His only begotten Son that was one with the Father, but gave Him to the world for the world to insult—the Son of the Infinite God, the Majesty of heaven to be derided, He that was equal with the Father to be treated thus—if they treated Him so, how will they treat us? God said, “If they will receive my testimony, they will also receive yours. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they have called me Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of your household.” [See John 15:20; Matthew 10:25.] We need not expect to sail to heaven without any trials and difficulties. Christ says, He that will come after me, let him indulge himself and have all the amusements that he wants? No. “Let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me and so shall he be my disciple.” [Mark 8:34.] Those are the conditions. Are you lifting the cross or are you trying to step over it? I ask you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Are you willing to be [a] partaker with Him in His suffering?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 110, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 110, 1894, par. 8

Everything in dress is to be neat and orderly, as in the sight of the universe of heaven. There is to be no untidiness in dress with professed Christians. What is the definition of Christian? [It is] to be Christlike in habits, in words, in actions. All is to be done to the glory of God. Plain, simple dress is after God’s order. We have no time for anything more than this. Hear the words of the great Teacher: “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] How does he learn? The Word gives light and understanding to the simple.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 112, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 112, 1894, par. 4

There is a contrast in the human mind and heart. The proud of heart will choose their own gratification and selfish indulgence. Man cannot discern that Christ, the commander of all heavenly intelligences laid aside His glory, laid off His crown and His royal robe, humbled himself, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might associate with and talk and work with humanity, and thus help fallen man by words, by deeds, and by example to follow in His footsteps. They are converted and show before the universe of heaven that they are wise, for they will sit in heavenly places, even in this life, in associating with Christ Jesus. What are the terms? “He that will come after Me let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. So shall he be My disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.] If these convicted souls are trying, in any point, to evade the cross, what then? The tempter is obtaining the victory, as in his first attempt in the heavenly courts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 100, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 100, 1895, par. 20

There are among our workers some who feel that a great object would be gained if their feet could tread the soil of old Jerusalem. But God’s cause and work will never be advanced by His workers wandering about to find where Jesus traveled and wrought His miracles. Would you trace the footsteps of Christ? Behold Him in that hovel, ministering to the poor. See Him at that sickbed, comforting the suffering ones and speaking hope and courage to the desponding soul. If God’s workers would walk in the footsteps of Jesus, they will do as He did. “He that will come after me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 37, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, par. 1

“Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who will do this willingly, because it is the right thing to do, dispensing with everything unnecessary; those who will study the life of Christ, and pray with heart, and soul, and voice, in the family circle, when walking the streets, when engaged in business, always bearing in mind the exhortations the Lord has given, “Pray without ceasing;” “continuing instant in prayer.” “Watch unto prayer,” will have a divine Companion with them who will lead them in paths of safety. [1 Thessalonians 5:17; Romans 12:12; 1 Peter 4:7.] Let not your thoughts be diverted from the point; but saying, “I will follow thee, my Saviour,” make your words true.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 23, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 23, 1896, par. 20

I ask you not to continue in the ministry and yet indulge your appetite for the flesh of dead animals. For your soul’s sake, take heed. Begin at once to make a decided change. Said Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Practice temperance in all things. Give yourself abundance of physical exercise in useful labor. Restrain your animal propensities.

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

MR No. 530—“Surface Religion”-Will It Stand the Test?

8MR 13.1

Let us hear what Christ has to say. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34.) To follow in the footsteps of Christ is to practice true godliness. All who are partakers with Christ of his humiliation and self-sacrifice will be constantly learning how to lay upon the foundation stone gold, silver, precious stones, not the material represented as wood, hay, and stubble, which will perish in the fire of the last days. We want true sanctification, true wholeness to God. We would not encourage the soaring element in the make up of character, but we would encourage true solidity. What is the chaff to the wheat? The world is not to be saved through the divine songs and melodies of even the angelic host in heaven. These angels have their appointed work to do on earth. They find a world in gross darkness as to what constitutes sin, which is the transgression of the law of God. Darkness, vice, deception, prevarication, dishonesty, exist among those who profess godliness. And there is a call made, “Lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, ... as a nation that did righteousness and forsook not the ordinance of their God.” (Isaiah 58:1.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 113, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 113, 1896, par. 12

No one can serve himself and follow his own natural will and desires, and yet enter the portals of bliss. You may ask the question, Cannot I serve God, and yet indulge my inclination, my taste, my will? Christ has answered this question, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] It is the cross which means denial of inclination that must be borne. There is no excuse for self in this matter. “Ye are not your own.” [1 Corinthians 6:19.] It is not left for us to choose our own way or our own plans, or to follow our own imaginings in being saved.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 175, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 175, 1896, par. 9

The Holy Spirit presents before men the agencies provided for his transformation. If he heeds the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me,” he will receive help from heavenly intelligences. [Mark 8:34.] God has provided help for all who will conform to the conditions laid down. It is a work of co-partnership, a joint operation, and our success depends wholly on our willing obedience to the will and way of God. Our character develops in accordance with our conformity to the divine plan.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 155, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 155, 1896, par. 10

The churches that claim to believe we have the last message of warning to be given to our world are called upon by the greatest, the most self-denying Missionary that ever trod the earthly soil. “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. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Mark 8:34. The Lord Jesus demands action and co-operation. This is His preordained order. There need not ever be a retrograde movement in this holy, aggressive work. This is the time when skepticism and disloyalty to Jesus Christ are prevalent and they are entering into churches.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 12, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 12, 1897, par. 38

Henceforth, <in our day,> the nations are to be in a very uncertain state. Kings and rulers will be involved in greater perplexities than they ever thought possible, and this because they are disobedient to the Word of the Lord, and work entirely contrary to His principles. The question now comes home to all who have their Bibles, Are we prepared to follow the Word of God? “He that will come after me,” said Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] You cannot depend upon priests, rulers, human law-makers, for as in Christ’s day, they teach for doctrine the commandments of men. They know not the Scriptures nor the power of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 20, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 20, 1897, par. 14

In view of the abundant evidence God has given of His love, His sympathy, and His benevolence, He requires our willing obedience. His love will prove a safeguard to every soul. It will bar the path to sin and selfish indulgence. In looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, in studying his life of self-denial and self-sacrifice, we are armed with the same mind to do the same service. “He that will come after me,” says Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] To the true follower of Christ there is a pleasure in doing the things that Christ has done in his behalf. He considers it not an arbitrary exaction, but a clear specification of his only safety from the advances of the will foe who is ever seeking to entangle our feet, and make our path difficult.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 24, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 24, 1897, par. 9

Unsanctified self will never see the kingdom of God. It must die. Christ must live in the thoughts and be enshrined in the hearts. His glory is to be kept ever in view, else they will occupy the lowest seat—not in His service, for they will have no part in God’s work. God will not accept the selfish, divided soul. “He that will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The love of display, the love of adornment, is an effectual barrier to the obtaining of the inward adorning. God exhorts His people, “Whose adorning, let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and wearing of gold, and putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” [1 Peter 3:3, 4.] Then shall we not seek to secure to ourselves that which the Lord pronounces of great price?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 113, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 113, 1897, par. 13

God calls for His own in gifts and freewill offerings. And the giver receives no equivalent more than the promise of God. Self-denial is to be practiced. Self-sacrifice is enjoined in the Word of God. “He that will come after me,” said Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. So shall he be my disciple.” [See Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 69, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 69, 1897, par. 61

The clamorous pretensions of self-sufficient men should be rebuked by letting them severely alone. Let teachers and students put on the robe of humanity, and take their seats as learners in the school of Christ. Submission to the authority of Christ must be encouraged and cultivated by every true disciple. “He that will be my disciple,” said Christ, “let him take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] All who love and serve Christ will expel pride from the soul. The living principles of truth will make them partakers of the divine nature. They will be loyal to the Captain of [their] salvation, and will maintain for themselves the privilege of knowing what is truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 43, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 43, 1898, par. 26

Take a retrospective view of your life, [to see] if you have followed Him who said, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.]

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

MR No. 882—Principles of True Education

11MR 157.1

Focus Attention on the Cross of Christ—Educators who will not work in these lines [Christian education] are not worthy of the name they bear. Teachers, turn from the examples of the world; cease to extol the professedly great men; turn the minds of your students from the glory of everything save the cross of Christ. That cross is to be bravely and manfully borne. Christ declares, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). And to all who will lift it and bear it after Christ, the cross is to them a pledge of the crown of immortality which they shall receive, which can never fade away.—Manuscript 11, 1898, 6. (“Word of God as a Study Book,” February 4, 1898.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 35, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 35, 1898, par. 12

We pass through this world but once. Let every step taken by those who claim to be sons and daughters of God be forward. Listen to the words of Christ: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] This alone will designate each of us as His disciples. Are we witnessing before the angels of heaven and before the worlds unfallen that we as human beings recognize that we understand what this means, “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s”? [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Entire consecration to God, living an undivided heart-life of service, this is a living testimony to the world that you recognize your accountability to improve.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 44, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 44, 1898, par. 3

We feel deeply the need of constant help from God in order to advance. If we do not advance, we retrograde. Do you, my brother, appreciate the words of Christ: “He that will come after me let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me”? [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 50, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 9

The cross is erected where two ways meet. Will the convicted man take the path of obedience to God’s commandments? This involves a denial of self, a sacrifice of self. “He that will come after me,” said Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 44, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 44, 1898, par. 34

We are to seek for the pearl of great price, but not in worldly marts or in worldly ways. The price we are required to pay is not gold or silver, for this belongs to God. It is not spiritual advantages. Abandon the idea that these things are your own. God calls for your willing obedience. You are to seek to save the souls that are perishing out of Christ. “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten,” Christ declares, “be zealous therefore and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man will open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” [Revelation 3:19, 20.] This is your work. Open the door, and let Jesus in. Christ asks you to give up your sins. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” [Revelation 3:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 21, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 21, 1898, par. 18

Then there are the large outlays by those whom the Lord has entrusted with His goods. Their self-denial is just as essential as [that of] others, and more so, for the sums they needlessly spend are all placed in the record books of heaven. When we have been in perplexity to know what we shall do to meet this emergency and that expense in order to advance the work of God, the word has come to me, Bear the message I give you to those who will not advance in practical godliness. They must heed the Word, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] “I for their sake became poor that they through my poverty might be made rich.” [See 2 Corinthians 8:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 157, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 157, 1898, par. 14

Perfection can only be attained through the grace given by Christ. Jesus requires the co-operation of the human agent. Temperance must be practiced in all things, in eating, in drinking, in all the habits of life. Christ said to His disciples, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Lord gave this lesson because it is truth, and He desires us to know the truth. He would have all who follow Him wholly in earnest. He would have us cultivate a whole-souled heartiness. Some may call this enthusiasm, but if there is any subject in the world worthy of enthusiasm, it is the subject which concerns our eternal interests. We must be heartily enthusiastic over the wonderful work of redemption of the human soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 21, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 21, 1898, par. 6

We need to walk very humble with God. What said our Saviour? “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Why will parents refuse to help their children to follow the self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer? Why will they prove unfaithful stewards, while souls are perishing in their sins, and families are suffering for want of help to help themselves? In my next letter, I may have time to relate some of the experiences we are just now passing through in helping a family to rise from depression, suffering, and want. Although the work and cause of God needs means for its advancement, yet these are things, brought to our immediate notice, that we cannot and will not neglect. These people must have temporal help; then we can give them spiritual help. We help them, hoping for nothing in return. But if they can, they will return to us every dollar.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 11, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 11, 1898, par. 13

Educators who will not work in these lines, are not worthy of the name they bear. Teachers, turn from the examples of the world, cease to extol the professedly great men, turn the minds of your students from the glory of everything save the cross of Christ. That cross is to be bravely and manfully borne. Christ declares, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] And to all who will lift it and bear it after Christ, the cross is <to them> a pledge of the crown of immortality <which they shall receive,> that can never fade away.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 61, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 61, 1898, par. 2

Every man will have some estimate of his own worth when he becomes a laborer together with Christ, doing the work that Christ did, filling the world with Christ’s righteousness, bearing a commission from the Most High. The Lord Jesus expects you to do His work, to proclaim, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] You are to work to bless those who have no sense of their need of a new heart, a new life, a new purpose. Some one must tell these of their great want, and those whom God has accepted as His sons and daughters are to work as Christ worked. They are to obey the call, “Follow me.” The Son of God came to give to the world the example so much needed of a pure and spotless character. “He that will come after me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who heed this call will study the meekness and lowliness of Christ, and will join with Him in His efforts to make the world better.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 200, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 200, 1898, par. 12

The Holy Spirit dwelling in the heart by faith [will bring] everyone into fellowship with his fellow men, in and through the sanctifying influence of the truth. Those who enlist in the army of the Lord and consider that they [will] have an easy, comfortable time of serving God—[being] paid abundantly in this world for all their service and help to others—will be disappointed. [They] have lessons to learn, that self is alive and not dead. “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]

Two Standards

3MR 109.2

Every church should be a working church. We should make ourselves useful, and do the little duties around us and that will prepare us for the greater responsibilities. When Christ ascended on high He left His disciples to carry forward the work. However unpleasant it may be, we should take up the humble duties of life. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Mark 8:34. What is the cross of Christ? It is not an ornament to the neck, but something that cuts right across our pathway. Satan is constantly watching for our souls. He seeks to lead us from the cross of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 201, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 201, 1898, par. 7

The message to be proclaimed by the messengers of God is the same message that Isaiah saw in prophetic vision. The churches in every place are to hear the call of God. Christ calls us to have a share in His divine life, to be laborers together with God, called of God and chosen to act a part in this divine life to share in His work. Thus the real spiritual life begins in a new birth. The Lord calls. Do you hear His voice? “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up the cross and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 110, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 110, 1899, par. 7

Dear Mother Wessels, I have words to speak to you. Be careful how you use the goods the Lord has entrusted to you. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] My sister, will you acknowledge the Lord’s ownership of you? Will you realize that all you have is the Lord’s? As a faithful steward of means, you are to study His Word and see what He says to you. The Lord requires everyone to serve Him with full purpose of heart. His Word points out the way in which we are to do this: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] We are to seek to be like Jesus, to reflect His image and imitate His example.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 90, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 90, 1899, par. 9

You speak of the Oakwood Industrial School for colored students as not having sufficient buildings to accommodate the students, twelve in number occupying one room. My brother, is it not the duty of someone laboring in this line to labor for the creation of a fund to supply this need? Appeal to our people. Let each give a little, even among the poor. Without delay, plan to erect a humble building large enough to accommodate the students. To have boys and girls thus crowded together must make the teacher’s work very difficult. Ask for help, presenting this matter as though you meant it. Ask the people to heed the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The example of Christ is for our imitation. <The plan of teaching agriculture to the colored people is a good one.>

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 54, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 54, 1899, par. 11

O what a work may be done if we do not stretch ourselves beyond our measure. My sister, there are many ways open before you. Address the crowds whenever you can. Hold every jot of influence you gain, by association, that will introduce the leaven into the meal. Every man and every women has his and her work to do for the Master. Personal consecration and sanctification to God will bring better results than the most imposing display. Personal work must be done, and personal sanctification makes each one a partaker with the Lord Jesus Christ, and He is invincible. Those who follow in the footsteps of Christ will not seek for show and parade. Christ is not there. “He that will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Without Me ye can do nothing to My name’s glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 150, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 150, 1899, par. 10

Christ’s work was to make men wise, not in worldly intrigue, not in sharp dealing to obtain the advantage of their fellow men, but to make them wise unto salvation, that they might win others to the beauty of holiness. Christ did not come to make men selfish, self-important and self-centered, to teach them to strive for the highest place, to hunger for supremacy over their fellow men. He said, “Lo, I come, (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)” to unfold mysteries which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world. [Hebrews 10:7.] I come to earth to live the life of God, to keep His law, the transcript of His character. Those who shall take the kingdom and possess it forever must work the works of God, as I have given them example. They must bring joy to those who mourn. They must heal the sorrows of men, bind up their wounds, and bring hope to the desponding. They must break the yoke of oppression and say to the sinner, Believe in Jesus Christ and thou shalt live. I am come to take away sin, for I gave My life to ransom the world. Will those who claim to be My servants act contrary to My example, and give the world a false representation of My character? Look to Me every day. My power is sufficient to uphold, to strengthen, establish, and make you complete in Me. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 153, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 153, 1899, par. 21

I am giving you the message in the name of the Lord. Put on the armor. Let there be no cowards or compromisers to reduce the strength of the Lord’s forces. Earnest engagements must be entered into, for the Lord is coming. Away with the ease-loving indolence that holds so many from the work. Unearth your buried talents. You are under obligation to God to be active, diligent workers. “He that will come after me,” Christ says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Let not church members refuse to see their responsibilities and unite in earnest work for God. Let them go forth to labor, carrying their colors with them. In every business transaction, let them reveal a considerate spirit, not an oppressive one.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 238, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 238, 1899, par. 7

While lifting the cross He says to us, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] He alone can make us capable of responding when He says, “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.” [Matthew 11:29.] This means that self must be denied every day. Christ can give the noble resolve, the will to suffer, to do, and to fight the battles of the Lord with persevering energy. The weakest, aided by divine grace, may have strength to be more than overcomers. Oh, we need an abiding Christ! We must have more than a fitful service. Learning of Jesus we will copy His character, His meekness, His lowliness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 123, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 123, 1899, par. 11

The divine Spirit puts the desire to engage in the work into the heart of the man whom He can qualify for that place. Some are fitted for one branch of the work and some for another. Some as sons of consolation are to carry the message to the sorrowing, the disappointed, and the brokenhearted; and angels of God will be with these workers. But those who are prepared to do God service in any line will not seek the easiest place. Said Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 57, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 57, 1899, par. 14

I have a request to make: Let all that love the Lord, who gave His life for them, make returns to Him who has bought them with a price. Through your own self-denial and self-sacrifice return to God your offerings, to be used in opening new fields and planting the standard of truth in places that have never been worked. First give yourselves to the Lord as a consecrated offering, and then in your practice heed the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 164, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 164, 1899, par. 14

Let us hear what Christ has to say. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] To follow in the footsteps of Christ is to practice true godliness. All who are partakers with Christ of His humiliation and self-sacrifice will be constantly learning how to lay upon the foundation stone gold, silver, precious stones, not the material represented as wood, hay, and stubble, which will perish in the fire of the last days. We want true sanctification, true wholeness to God. We would not encourage the soaring element in the makeup of character, but we would encourage true solidity. What is the chaff to the wheat?

14LtMs, Lt 164, 1899, par. 23

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 147, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 147, 1899, par. 3

Christ lived not to please Himself, and He says to his followers, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] That cross cuts across every tendency to wrong, whether it be hereditary or cultivated. In His life and His plans for reaching the people, Christ teaches us how we should follow Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 204, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 204, 1899, par. 4

The Lord Jesus has said, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] 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.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 143, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 143, 1899, par. 6

There was danger that they would expend their means to gratify self and to please the sight of the eyes. There was danger that they would forget their Pattern, who for their sakes became poor that they through His poverty might be made rich. Their moral taste needed to be cultivated. Before every outlay of means they needed to stop and inquire, “Am I doing as Jesus would do? Am I following in His footsteps?” Christ says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] This is the only path of safety for you, my brethren and sisters, whether you live in Africa, Australia or America.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 21, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 21, 1899, par. 27

Christ declares, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who have on the wedding garment, the robe of Christ’s righteousness, will not question whether they should lift the cross and follow in the footsteps of the Saviour. Willingly and cheerfully they will obey His commands. Souls are perishing out of Christ. How inconsistent then is all striving after position and wealth! How feeble are the motives which Satan may present, which selfishness and ambition can furnish, in comparison with the lessons which Christ has given in His Word! How worthless the reward the world offers beside that offered by our heavenly Father!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 205, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 205, 1899, par. 7

The style of a doctor’s dress, his equipage, his furniture, weigh not one jot with God. He says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up the cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The physicians who unite with the work of God are to co-operate with God as His appointed instrumentalities; they are to give all their power and efficiency to magnifying the work of God’s commandment-keeping people. But physicians have been led to suppose that their capabilities were their own individual property, and they have used the powers given them to do God’s work in branching out into lines of work to which God has not appointed them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 186, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 186, 1899, par. 12

The kindness shown us by the people revealed that we were among friends. We have a most earnest desire that the precious souls who have shown so many expressions of their kindness of heart to the children of God, may also express to the Lord their appreciation of the gift of Christ to our world, and manifest a willingness to follow the call of God to its utmost consequences. Said Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Lord Jesus appreciates the kindness done to His servants. It is recorded in the books of heaven as done to Himself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 90a, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 90a, 1899, par. 9

You speak of the Oakwood Industrial School for colored students as not having sufficient buildings to accommodate the students, twelve in number occupying one room. My brother, is it not the duty of someone laboring in this line to labor for the creation of a fund to supply this need? Let appeals be made to our people. Let each give a little, even among the poor. Without delay, encourage the brethren to erect a humble building large enough to accommodate the students. Ask the people to heed the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The example of Christ is for our imitation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 102, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 102, 1899, par. 2

We need not feel undue anxiety. We must learn the lesson of faith and trust. Let us commit the spiritual needs of our soul to Him who has loved us and given His precious life that He might make it possible for us to learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart. While lifting the cross He says to us, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Christ alone can make us capable of responding when He says, “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.” [Matthew 11:29.] This means that every day self must be denied. Christ can give us the noble resolve, the will, to suffer and to fight the battles of the Lord with persevering energy. The weakest, aided by divine grace, may have strength to be more than conquerors.

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

MR No. 1556—Church Leader to Be Self-Denying and Humble, Not Proud and Dictatorial

21MR 277.1

Christ has spoken to the whole world, saying, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross”—and run ahead of Me in his manner of ministering? No—“Follow Me.” (Mark 8:34.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 23, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 23, 1899, par. 9

A meetinghouse will soon have to be built to accommodate the converts to the faith in Newcastle. We must do all in our power to plant the standard of truth in this place. Those who embrace the truth are given no flattering representation. We have no earthly reward to offer. We can only present the cross in the words of Christ. “He that will come after me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] This means righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, and the reward which will be received at the end of the warfare—a crown of life, and the spotless robe of the righteousness of Christ and an abundant entrance into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 150, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 54

Paul declares that the law of God is holy, just, and good. From the least to the greatest command God has given, not one is to be treated indifferently. Not one can be spared. God’s commands are true and righteous altogether. Not one command can we safely ignore, even though [it] may cut across what we suppose to be a chance of making a success in lines of worldly commerce. Christ says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Better to suffer the loss of earthly advantages, to endure poverty, reproach, imprisonment, and even death itself, for the sake of the cause of truth, than to make shipwreck of the faith by complying with evil practices.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 66, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 66, 1899, par. 4

Will you comply with the invitation to yoke up with Christ? Uniting with others in church capacity means much. It means that you have volunteered to serve Christ. But a formal union with the church without heart-union with Christ is worthless. We invite you to become a student in the school of Jesus Christ. You need a daily, genuine conversion. Link up with Christ every day by earnest prayer. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Have you done this? When you do it from the heart, you will see that it means much to be a Christian. But by failing to lift the cross you lose much in this life and everything in the future life. If you have decided to be towed along, as the ship is towed by the hardworking tug, you will find yourself in the condition of the foolish virgins, without oil in your vessel with your lamp. Prayers and exhortation, all the good advice in the world, cannot save you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 97, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 97, 1899, par. 27

Who are the true ministers of God? Those who represent Christ. “He that will come after me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Men are to stand and fall, not by their own judgment, or by the opinions of their fellow men, but by the unchangeable law of God. We are to keep self in subordination, and work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. “I am jealous over you with godly jealousy,” Paul said, “for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” [2 Corinthians 11:2.] Paul did not seek to attach the church to himself, but to lead it to Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 147, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 147, 1899, par. 6

“He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Lifting this cross cuts away self from the soul, and places the human agent where he can learn how to wear Christ’s yoke, how to bear His burdens. When men and women become sensible of their own weakness, their own deficiencies, they will delight to do God’s will. They will submit to the yoke of Christ. Then God can work in them, to will and to do of His own good pleasure, which is often entirely contrary to the plans of the human mind. When the heavenly anointing comes to us, we shall learn the lesson of meekness and lowliness, which always brings rest to the soul.

14LtMs, Ms 147, 1899, par. 10

Christ’s words, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” [verse 34], is the touchstone which discovers the quality of a man’s experience. When a man’s inclinations or ambitious hopes are crossed, he reveals the spirit which governs him. The Lord permits trials to come to His people; and the only way to do with these trials is to take them all to Jesus. He says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] The cross of self-denial and self-sacrifice stands directly in our way.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 138a, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 138a, 1899, par. 6

There is altogether too much self-indulgence among us. Money is spent for that which is not bread. Let those who would please the Master listen to His words, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Let us willingly practice these words, and we shall be blessed. If all that has been invested in self-gratification were counted up, the amount would astonish every church in the land.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 41, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 41, 1899, par. 22

Each one is to bear in mind the words of Christ, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] If this command is kept in view, we shall see a large measure of the manifestation of the Spirit of God. The Lord has a place for every one in His great plan. Talents that are not needed are not bestowed. To every man God gives talents which are to be improved according to his several ability.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 16a, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 16a, 1899, par. 10

We are to be individual toilers. Character cannot be bought or sold. It is formed by patient, continuous effort. Much patience is required in the striving for that life which is to come. We may all strive for perfection of character, but all who come into possession of it will earn it step by step, by the cultivation of the virtues which God commends. The Holy Spirit presents before man the agencies provided for his transformation. If he heeds the words, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me,” he will receive help from a power that is infinite. [Mark 8:34.]