EGW WritingsMatthew 10

The Review and Herald

April 10, 1888

RH April 10, 1888, par. 1

Text: “For the disciple is not above his Master, nor the servant above his Lord.” Matthew 10:24.

RH April 10, 1888, par. 2

Here we see that those go out to do the work of God are not to feel sufficient of themselves. In the 16th verse, the apostle speaks of them as being as sheep among wolves. There is to be a hatred against those who proclaim God’s law, and therefore there is to be a necessity of our having a living connection with God if we engage in his work. Christ says, “Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” While we are to be harmless in a crooked and perverse generation, we are to shine as lights in the world. We should have our hearts filled with wisdom and the grace of Christ, so that we shall make no mistakes to prove an injury to those for whom we labor. If any man “lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 350, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, par. 30

“But when they persecute you in one city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel till the Son of man be come. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.” [Matthew 10:16-24.] The Saviour had often to leave the city where He was working and go to some place where He would not be recognized.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 3, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 28

Christ had told His disciples, “Behold I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues: and ye shall be brought before kings and governors from my sake, for a testimony against the Gentiles. But when they shall deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak, for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but your Father which speaketh in you.” [Matthew 10:16-20.]

13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 29

After enumerating the persecutions they should meet for His name’s sake, Christ said, “It is enough for the disciple that he be as his Master, and the servant as his lord. For if they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?” [Verse 25.]

Maranatha

Witnessing Before the Great Men of the Earth, September 2

Mar 253.1

And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. Matthew 10:18.

Our High Calling

A Crisis Before Us, December 15

OHC 355.1

And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. Matthew 10:18.

Homeward Bound

Statesmen Won to Truth, November 23

HB 356.1

You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.—Matthew 10:18.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 6—Huss and Jerome

GC 112.3

His request was finally granted. In the presence of his judges, Jerome kneeled down and prayed that the divine Spirit might control his thoughts and words, that he might speak nothing contrary to the truth or unworthy of his Master. To him that day was fulfilled the promise of God to the first disciples: “Ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake.... But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” Matthew 10:18-20.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 6—Huss and Jerome

GC88 112.3

His request was finally granted. In the presence of his judges, Jerome kneeled down and prayed that the Divine Spirit might control his thoughts and words, that he might speak nothing contrary to the truth or unworthy of his Master. To him that day was fulfilled the promise of God to the first disciples: “Ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake; ... but when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak; for it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” [Matthew 10:18-20.] The words of Jerome excited astonishment and admiration, even in his enemies. For a whole year he had been immured in a dungeon, unable to read or even to see, in great physical suffering and mental anxiety. Yet his arguments were presented with as much clearness and power as if he had had undisturbed opportunity for study. He pointed his hearers to the long line of holy men who had been condemned by unjust judges. In almost every generation have been those who, while seeking to elevate the people of their time, have been reproached and cast out, but who in later times have been shown to be deserving of honor. Christ himself was condemned as a malefactor at an unrighteous tribunal.

From Here to Forever

Luther Stands Before the Council

HF 98.1

The lowly-born Reformer seemed awed and embarrassed. Several princes approached him, and one whispered: “Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul.” Another said: “When ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, it shall be given you, by the Spirit of your Father, what ye shall say.” See Matthew 10:28, 18, 19.

Maranatha

Promise of Divine Help, September 4

Mar 255.1

But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. Matthew 10:19.

Our High Calling

Are You Ready for the Testing? December 16

OHC 356.1

But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. Matthew 10:19.

From Here to Forever

Jerome Finds Repentance and New Courage

HF 70.3

His request was finally granted. In the presence of his judges, Jerome kneeled down and prayed that the divine Spirit might control his thoughts, that he might speak nothing contrary to truth or unworthy of his Master. To him that day was fulfilled the promise, “When they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” Matthew 10:19, 20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 93, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 93, 1907, par. 20

We have nothing to do with the proving of truth. What we have to do is to plant our feet on the eternal platform of truth and to stand on the affirmative. The time will very soon come when we shall be brought before kings and rulers, when we shall be accused of one thing and another of which we are not guilty. For that time the Saviour has given the instruction: “When they shall deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given unto you that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” [Matthew 10:19, 20.]

Steps to Christ

Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship

SC 62.3

More than this, Christ changes the heart. He abides in your heart by faith. You are to maintain this connection with Christ by faith and the continual surrender of your will to Him; and so long as you do this, He will work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. So you may say, “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. So Jesus said to His disciples, “It is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” Matthew 10:20. Then with Christ working in you, you will manifest the same spirit and do the same good works—works of righteousness, obedience.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Spirit Gives the Right Words, June 19

YRP 179.1

For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. Matthew 10:20.

Homeward Bound

Perfection, March 2

HB 79.4

More than this, Christ changes the heart. He abides in your heart by faith. You are to maintain this connection with Christ by faith and the continual surrender of your will to Him; and so long as you do this, He will work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. So you may say, “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.) So Jesus said to His disciples, “It is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” (Matthew 10:20.) Then with Christ working in you, you will manifest the same spirit and do the same good works—works of righteousness, obedience.

Maranatha

Persecution by Protestants and Catholics, July 5

Mar 194.1

Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 10:22.

Counsels on Health

Enmity of the Pharisees

CH 527.3

In doing medical missionary work we shall meet the same opposition that Christ met. He declares: “Ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” Matthew 10:22, 23.

Spalding and Magan Collection

Methods of Work in the Southern Field

SpM 27.4

We are to study the situation with great care: for the Lord is our enlightener. The Lord has given men capabilities to exercise, but there is too little deep thinking, and too little earnest praying that the Lord would give wisdom at all times, and show how to work difficult fields. We are under obligation to God, and if we love God, we are in duty bound, not only on the general ground of obligation and obedience to obey the orders of our Spiritual Leader, and to save as many souls as we can to present them as slaves to Jesus Christ, who gave Himself a living sacrifice to ransom them, and make them free servants of Jesus Christ. There is not to be one word uttered which would stir up the slumbering enmity and hatred of the slaves against discipline and order, or to present before them the injustice which has been done them. Nothing can be done at first in making the Sabbath question prominent, and if the colored people are in any way educated to work on Sunday, there will be unsparing, merciless oppression brought upon them. Already there has been too much printed in regard to the persecution of the Sabbath-keepers in the Southern States, and those who are bitter against the law of God, trampling it under their feet, are all the more earnest to make human laws a power. Their religious prejudice and bigotry would lead them to do any acts of violence, verily thinking they were doing God’s service: for they are in great error. A blind zeal under false religious theories, is the most violent and merciless. There are many who are stirred up by the representations in our papers, to do just as their neighboring states are doing. All these things give them the appearance of defying the law. In Christ’s day, when persecuted in one city, they fled to another. It may be the duty of those persecuted to avail themselves of finding refuge in another city or another country. Matthew 10:22, 23. “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake; but he that endureth to the end, shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Man be come.” “The disciples is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 97, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 97, 1902, par. 10

In doing medical missionary work we shall meet the same opposition that Christ met. He declares: “Ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Man be come.” [Matthew 10:22, 23.]

The Southern Work

Proper Methods of Work in the Southern Field

SWk 74.2

Nothing can be done at first in making the Sabbath question prominent, and if the colored people are in any way educated to work on Sunday, there will be unsparing, merciless oppression brought upon them. Already there has been too much printed in regard to the persecution of the Sabbathkeepers in the Southern States, and those who are bitter against the law of God, trampling it under their feet, are all the more in earnest to make human laws a power. Their religious prejudice and bigotry would lead them to do any act of violence, verily thinking they were doing God’s service, for they are in great error. A blind zeal under false religious theories is the most violent and merciless. There are many who are stirred up by the representations in our papers to do just as their neighboring States are doing. All these things give them the appearance of defying the law. In Christ’s day, when persecuted in one city, they fled to another. It may be the duty of those persecuted to locate themselves in another city or another country. “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord” (Matthew 10:22-24).

Special Testimonies for Ministers and Workers—No. 6

Proper Methods of Work in the Southern Field

SpTA06 50.2

Nothing can be done at first in making the Sabbath question prominent, and if the colored people are in any way educated to work on Sunday, there will be unsparing, merciless oppression brought upon them. Already there has been too much printed in regard to the persecution of the Sabbath-keepers in the Southern States, and those who are bitter against the law of God, trampling it under their feet, are all the more in earnest to make human laws a power. Their religious prejudice and bigotry would lead them to do any act of violence, verily thinking they were doing God’s service; for they are in great error. A blind zeal under false religious theories, is the most violent and merciless. There are many who are stirred up by the representations in our papers, to do just as their neighboring States are doing. All these things give them the appearance of defying the law. In Christ’s day, when persecuted in one city, they fled to another. It may be the duty of those persecuted, to locate themselves in another city or another country. “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Man be come. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.” Matthew 10:22-24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 73, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 73, 1895, par. 11

There are many who are stirred up by the representations in our papers to do just as their neighboring states are doing. All these things give them <Sabbathkeepers> the appearance of defying the law. In Christ’s day, when persecuted in one city, they fled to another. It may be the duty of those persecuted to avail themselves <of the privilege to go into> another city or another country. “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake; but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.” [Matthew 10:22-24.]

Colporteur Ministry

Chapter 2—A Work Second to None

CM 11.2

As Long as Probation Lasts—As long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress God’s people, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the persecution becomes severe, let the workers do as Christ has directed. “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” If persecution comes there, go to still another place. God will lead His people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution they would not be so widely scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares: “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” Matthew 10:23. Until in heaven is spoken the word, “It is finished,” there will always be places for labor, and hearts to receive the message.—Testimonies for the Church 6:478 (1900).

The Great Controversy

Chapter 10—Progress of Reform in Germany

GC 196.2

When persecution was kindled against the teachers of the truth, they gave heed to the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. The light penetrated everywhere. The fugitives would find somewhere a hospitable door opened to them, and there abiding, they would preach Christ, sometimes in the church, or, if denied that privilege, in private houses or in the open air. Wherever they could obtain a hearing was a consecrated temple. The truth, proclaimed with such energy and assurance, spread with irresistible power.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 10—Progress of Reform in Germany

GC88 196.2

When persecution was kindled against the teachers of the truth, they gave heed to the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” [Matthew 10:23.] The light penetrated everywhere. The fugitives would find somewhere a hospitable door opened to them, and there abiding, they would preach Christ, sometimes in the church, or, if denied that privilege, in private houses or in the open air. Wherever they could obtain a hearing was a consecrated temple. The truth, proclaimed with such energy and assurance, spread with irresistible power.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 8—Progress of the Reformation

4SP 155.2

When persecution was kindled against the teachers of the truth, they gave heed to the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” [Matthew 10:23.] The light penetrated everywhere. The fugitives would find somewhere a hospitable door opened to them, and there abiding, they would preach Christ, sometimes in the church, or, if denied that privilege, in private houses or in the open air. Wherever they could obtain a hearing was a consecrated temple. The truth, proclaimed with such energy and assurance, spread with irresistible power.

The Colporteur Evangelist

As Long as Probation Lasts

CEv 99.2

As long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress God’s people, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the persecution becomes severe, let the workers do as Christ has directed. “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” If persecution comes there, go to still another place. God will lead His people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution they would not be so widely scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares: “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” Matthew 10:23. Until in heaven is spoken the word, “It is finished,” there will always be places for labor, and hearts to receive the message.—Testimonies for the Church 6:478.

The Review and Herald

June 17, 1902

RH June 17, 1902, par. 4

As long as the message of mercy is to be given to the world, there will be a call for effort in behalf of other institutions and enterprises similar to that for the relief of our schools. And as long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress God’s people, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the persecution becomes severe, let the workers do as Christ has directed: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If persecution comes there, go to still another place. God will lead his people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution, they would not be so widely scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares, “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” Until in heaven is spoken the word, “It is finished,” there will always be places for labor and hearts to receive the message.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

The Sabbath Issue

3TT 393.2

The Lord has said: “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.” Exodus 31:13. None should disobey His command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

From Here to Forever

Bible Study Everywhere

HF 123.2

When persecution was kindled against the teachers of the truth, they gave heed to the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. The fugitives would find somewhere a hospitable door opened to them, and they would preach Christ, sometimes in the church or in private houses or in the open air. The truth spread with irresistible power.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Sowing and Reaping

GW 410.1

The lives of the workers may be endangered by those who are controlled by Satan. It is then their privilege to follow the example of their Master, and go to another place. “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel,” Christ said, “till the Son of man be come.” [Matthew 10:23.] Let the messengers of truth pass on to another field. Here may be a more favorable opportunity for work, and they may successfully sow the seed of truth and reap the harvest. The report of their success will find its way to the place where the work was apparently unsuccessful, and the next messenger of truth who goes there will be more favorably received.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 22a, 1895 [Copy 1]

10LtMs, Ms 22a, 1895, par. 40

“Instead of resisting the penalties imposed unjustly upon us, it would be better to take heed to the Saviour’s words: ‘When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another; for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.’” [Matthew 10:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 9, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 9, 1900, par. 1

I rise at 2 a.m. to write a few words in regard to those of our people who are being thrust into the chain gang and forced to work on the Sabbath. It is the spirit of antichrist that inspires this oppression. Men are inspired by Satan to execute his purposes against God. The Lord has said, “Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations.” [Exodus 31:13.] None should disobey this command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” [Matthew 10:23.] If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. If the payment of a fine will deliver our brethren from the hands of these oppressors, let it be paid, rather than allow them to be forced to work on the Sabbath. Everything that we can do should be done, that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

15LtMs, Ms 9, 1900, par. 13

All who have genuine faith will be tested and tried. They may have to forsake houses and lands, and even their own relatives, because of bitter opposition. But “when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another,” Christ said; “ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel until the Son of man be come.” [Matthew 10:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 20, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 20, 1901, par. 16

In some places where the opposition is very pronounced, the lives of God’s messengers may be endangered. It is then their privilege to follow the example of their Master and go to another place. “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel,” Christ said, “till the Son of man be come.” [Matthew 10:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 26, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, par. 23

God help you to make the most of His donation to you of this book. There are souls in desolate places who should be reached by this effort. The angels of God will make an impression on minds as the workers go forth in faith. All who enter this work will gain an experience that will enable them to be successful laborers for God. As they seek the Lord for help, He will communicate with them. They will receive plans devised by the Lord Himself. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the oppression becomes severe, do as Christ has told you to do. When they persecute you in one place, go to another place, and if persecution comes there, go to still another. God will lead His people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution, God’s people would not be scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares, “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” [Matthew 10:23.] Then take hold of the work of evangelistic canvassing.

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

MR No. 955—Items for Newbold—Part II

12MR 149.2

All who have genuine faith will be tested and tried. They may have to forsake houses and lands, and even their own relatives, because of bitter opposition. But “when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another,” Christ said, “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, til the Son of man be come” (Matthew 10:23).—Manuscript 9, 1900, 4. (“Our Duty Under Persecution,” January 26, 1900.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 21, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 21, 1910, par. 7

Where are the men who will work and study and agonize in prayer as did Christ? We are not to confine our efforts to a few places. “When they shall persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” [Matthew 10:23.] Let Christ’s plan be followed. He was ever watching for opportunities to engage in personal labor, ever ready to interest and draw men to a study of the Scriptures. He labored patiently for men who had not an intelligent knowledge of what is truth. While we are not awake to the situation, and while much time is consumed in planning how to reach perishing souls, Satan is busy devising and blocking the way.

Selected Messages Book 3

Pay Fine if It Will Deliver From the Oppressor

3SM 400.2

Men are inspired by Satan to execute his purposes against God. The Lord has said, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations” (Exodus 31:13). None should disobey this command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another” (Matthew 10:23). If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of Antichrist. If the payment of a fine will deliver our brethren from the hands of these oppressors, let it be paid, rather than to be pressed and made to work on the Sabbath. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty....

3SM 401.5

All who have genuine faith will be tested and tried. They may have to forsake houses and lands, and even their own relatives, because of bitter opposition. “But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another,” Christ said. “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come” (Matthew 10:23).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Chapter 27—A Time of Trial Before Us

9T 230.1

The Lord has said: “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.” Exodus 31:13. None should disobey His command in order to escape persecution. But let all consider the words of Christ: “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. If it can be avoided, do not put yourselves into the power of men who are worked by the spirit of antichrist. Everything that we can do should be done that those who are willing to suffer for the truth’s sake may be saved from oppression and cruelty.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Be Not Weary in Well-Doing

6T 478.2

As long as the message of mercy is to be given to the world, there will be a call for effort in behalf of other institutions and enterprises similar to that for the relief of our schools. And as long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress God’s people, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the persecution becomes severe, let the workers do as Christ has directed. “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” If persecution comes there, go to still another place. God will lead His people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution they would not be so widely scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares: “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” Matthew 10:23. Until in heaven is spoken the word, “It is finished,” there will always be places for labor, and hearts to receive the message.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 59—Priestly Plottings

DA 541.2

The Sanhedrin feared, however, to take rash measures against Jesus, lest the people should become incensed, and the violence meditated toward Him should fall upon themselves. On this account the council delayed to execute the sentence they had pronounced. The Saviour understood the plotting of the priests. He knew that they longed to remove Him, and that their purpose would soon be accomplished. But it was not His place to hasten the crisis, and He withdrew from that region, taking the disciples with Him. Thus by His own example Jesus again enforced the instruction He had given to the disciples, “When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another.” Matthew 10:23. There was a wide field in which to work for the salvation of souls; and unless loyalty to Him required it, the Lord’s servants were not to imperil their lives.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 55, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 22

Sin is the transgression of the law; and never was there a being on earth who had so intense a hatred of sin as Jesus Christ, who came to destroy him who had brought sin into our world. All sin was odious in His sight. It was the purity and holiness of Christ which stirred up against Him all the malice and hatred of those whose carnal hearts were not in harmony with God’s law. He provoked from the despisers of God’s law the assaults of reprobate spirits. A perpetual reproach was thrown on a proud and sensual generation by the spotless life of the righteous Son of God who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. If vice had not received so severe a rebuke from the Son of God in His blameless life, the multitude would never have been worked up to demand His crucifixion. All who follow Christ will bear the reproach and the shame and contempt that Jesus bore for them. They can expect no better portion in this life than that which was given to our Lord. If the Master of the house suffer, how much more they of His household. See Matthew 10:24, 25.

Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)

Early Arguments for the Spirit of Prophecy

1BIO 77.1

But prejudiced and unbelieving persons find it just as convenient to call it mesmerism and ascribe the power to the devil, as the unbelieving Pharisees did. Matthew 10:25; 12:24. Is not this the sin against the Holy Ghost? See Mark 3:22, 29, 30. That power which is manifested in her, as far exceeds the power of mesmerism as Moses did the magicians of Egypt. The devil has as much power to imitate and counterfeit the work of God as he did in Moses’ time, and the people can be deceived if they will.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Our Example

1TT 221.3

“It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord.” Matthew 10:25. Our tables are frequently spread with luxuries neither healthful nor necessary, because we love these things more than we love self-denial, freedom from disease, and soundness of mind. Jesus sought earnestly for strength from His Father. This the divine Son of God considered of more value, even for Himself, than to sit at the most luxurious table. He has given us evidence that prayer is essential in order to receive strength to contend with the powers of darkness, and to do the work allotted us. Our own strength is weakness, but that which God gives is mighty and will make everyone who obtains it more than conqueror.

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 13 (1898)

Ms 9, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 38

“It is enough for the disciple,” Christ said, “that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call they of his household? Fear not them therefore; for there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed; nor hid, that shall not be known. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light; and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” [Matthew 10:25-28.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 60—A Cross in Accepting the Truth

2T 496.2

You, my dear sister, need a thorough conversion to the truth, which shall slay self. Cannot you trust in God? Please read Matthew 10:25-40. Please read also, with a prayerful heart, Matthew 6:24-34. Let these words impress your heart: “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” The better life is here referred to. By the body is meant the inward adorning, which makes sinful mortals, possessing the meekness and righteousness of Christ, valuable in His sight, as was Enoch, and entitles them to receive the finishing touch of immortality. Our Saviour refers us to the fowls of the air, which sow not, neither reap, nor gather into barns, yet their heavenly Father feedeth them. Then He says: “Are ye not much better than they? ... And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” These lilies, in their simplicity and innocence, meet the mind of God better than Solomon in his costly decorations yet destitute of the heavenly adorning. “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Can you not trust in your heavenly Father? Can you not rest upon His gracious promise? “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Precious promise! Can we not rely upon it? Can we not have implicit trust, knowing that He is faithful who hath promised? I entreat you to let your trembling faith again grasp the promises of God. Bear your whole weight upon them with unwavering faith; for they will not, they cannot, fail.

Testimony for the Church — No. 18

An Appeal to the Church

T18 207.2

You, my dear sister, need a thorough conversion to the truth, which shall slay self. Cannot you trust in God? Please read Matthew 10:25-40. Please read with a prayerful heart Matthew 6:24-34. Let these words impress your heart: “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body more than raiment?” The better life is here referred to. By the body is meant the inward adorning which makes sinful mortals, possessing the meekness and righteousness of Christ, valuable in his sight, as was Enoch, and entitles him to receive the finishing touch of immortality. Our Saviour refers us to the fowls of the air, which sow not, neither reap, nor gather into barns; yet their Heavenly Father feedeth them. Then he says, “Are ye not much better than they? ... And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin. And yet I say unto you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” These lilies, in their simplicity and innocence, meet the mind of God better than Solomon in his costly decorations, yet destitute of the heavenly adorning. “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Can ye not trust in your Heavenly Father? Can ye not rest upon his gracious promise? Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Precious promise! Can we rely upon it? Can we not have implicit trust, knowing that he is faithful who hath promised? I entreat of you to let your trembling faith again grasp the promises of God. Bear your whole weight upon these promises with unwavering faith; for they will not, they cannot, fail.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 71—David’s Sin and Repentance

PP 721.3

Nathan fixed his eyes upon the king; then, lifting his right hand to heaven, he solemnly declared, “Thou art the man.” “Wherefore,” he continued, “hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in His sight?” The guilty may attempt, as David had done, to conceal their crime from men; they may seek to bury the evil deed forever from human sight or knowledge; but “all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:13. “There is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known.” Matthew 10:26.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 52, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 47

In the natural world every substance has its comparative value and weight. So is it in the moral world. Nothing is insignificant in our world which sin has touched with the principles of hell in the slightest degree. We as Christians should guard every word that savors of selfish exaltation or vanity, while looks [and] expressions contrast yourself in an exalted light of comparison to others. God will not pass by these things as unimportant. No one has a right to bruise the soul of brother or friend by indifference, by word, by look, by gestures, or abuse. “There is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed, and hid, that shall not be known.” [Matthew 10:26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 223, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 223, 1905, par. 5

We are to proclaim the truth to the world, for thus the great Medical Missionary has commanded us. What ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the house top; for there is nothing hid that shall not be made known. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and keep His commandments. [See Matthew 10:26, 27; Psalm 25:14.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 114, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 114, 1898, par. 9

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

Conflict and Courage

The Highest Honor, September 29

CC 278.1

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28.

Our High Calling

Out of the Lion’s Mouth, December 17

OHC 357.1

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28.

The Faith I Live By

A Goodness in God’s Justice, June 19

FLB 176.1

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28.

To Be Like Jesus

Nature Teaches the Value of Obedience to Law, August 19

BLJ 245.1

Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. Matthew 10:29, NKJV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 79, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, par. 2

A government, of whatever character, supposes a governor. This world has a governor—the God of the universe. His guardian care is universal, extending to man and beast, reaching even to the little sparrow; for Christ declares, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” [Matthew 10:29, 30.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 34—The Time of Trouble

4SP 446.1

Though the people of God endure privation, and even suffer for want of food, they are not left to perish. While God’s judgments are visited upon the earth, and the wicked are dying from hunger and thirst, angels provide the righteous with food and water. Said Jesus, in his lessons of faith to his disciples: “Consider the ravens; for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them; how much more are ye better than the fowls?” [Luke 12:24.] “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” [Matthew 10:29-31.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 56, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, par. 11

We shall have trials and discouragements to encounter. I know that new trials are before me, for whenever I am to be sorely pressed with temptation, encouragement is given me. Christ said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value that many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. ... I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.” [Matthew 10:29-32, 35, 36.]

11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, par. 12

This is the result of accepting Christ. That portion of the family which refuses to believe, to the saving of the soul, will be at enmity with those who do believe. But Christ says, “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Verses 37, 38.]

Counsels for the Church

God’s Individual Interests in His Children

CCh 77.2

Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father’s notice. Satan’s hatred against God leads him to delight in destroying even the dumb creatures. It is only through God’s protecting care that the birds are preserved to gladden us with their songs of joy. But He does not forget even the sparrows. “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.83Testimonies for the Church 8:263-273

Counsels on Health

Need of Opportunity for Christian Culture

CH 423.1

We cannot always be on our knees in prayer, but the way to the mercy seat is always open. While engaged in active labor, we may ask for help; and we are promised by One who will not deceive us, “Ye shall receive.” The Christian can and will find time to pray. Daniel was a statesman; heavy responsibilities rested upon him; yet three times a day he sought God, and the Lord gave him the Holy Spirit. So today men may resort to the sacred pavilion of the Most High and feel the assurance of His promise, “My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” Isaiah 32:18. All who really desire it can find a place for communion with God, where no ear can hear but the one open to the cries of the helpless, distressed, and needy— the One who notices even the fall of the little sparrow. He says, “Ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.

Prayer

Chapter 19—Attitudes in Prayer

Pr 212.1

Kneeling Not Always Required While Praying—We cannot always be on our knees in prayer, but the way to the mercy seat is always open. While engaged in active labor, we may ask for help; and we are promised by One who will not deceive us, “Ye shall receive.” The Christian can and will find time to pray. Daniel was a statesman; heavy responsibilities rested upon him; yet three times a day he sought God, and the Lord gave him the Holy Spirit. So today men may resort to the sacred pavilion of the Most High and feel the assurance of His promise, “My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” Isaiah 32:18. All who really desire it can find a place for communion with God, where no ear can hear but the one open to the cries of the helpless, distressed, and needy—the One who notices even the fall of the little sparrow. He says, “Ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.—(Counsels on Health, 423, 424.)

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

His Providential Care

8T 273.1

Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father’s notice. Satan’s hatred against God leads him to delight in destroying even the dumb creatures. It is only through God’s protecting care that the birds are preserved to gladden us with their songs of joy. But He does not forget even the sparrows. “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

His Providential Care

3TT 267.6

Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father’s notice. Satan’s hatred against God leads him to delight in destroying even the dumb creatures. It is only through God’s protecting care that the birds are preserved to gladden us with their songs of joy. But He does not forget even the sparrows. “Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 34, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 34, 1891, par. 9

Do not shape your course in any way to invite such praise, for it is only a temptation to you. No human praise can make us of any more value than Heaven has accounted up. If He who created the heavens, who marshaled the host of the stars in their order, notices the fall of a sparrow, will He overlook those whom He declares to be of more value than many sparrows? [Matthew 10:31.] What need have we, then, of human praise—praise which comes from deceiving lips? Words of men are very cheap, but they prove terribly dear to him who puts his trust in them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 50a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 50a, 1897, par. 49

God is the orderer of all things. Have you not had any idea that this movement made by Brother Hickox was under the ordering of God? Did not the Lord see that you might not deal with His servant wisely? Did He not see that he needed to do service in some other part of His vineyard, just where he is? He who is the orderer of all things, He who numbers the hairs of our head, worked through His Spirit to transfer him to a field where he could do greater good, just as the careful, tender, earthly father would do in the interests of his children, only our God is infinitely more watchful over the interests of His sons and daughters. He is too wise to err, and too good to do them harm. He has a wise love, a great and unbounded love. “Are ye not of more value than many sparrows? and yet your heavenly Father feedeth them.” [Matthew 10:31; 6:26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 50, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 50, 1897, par. 47

God is the orderer of all things. Have you not had any idea that this movement made by Brother Hickox was under the ordering of God? Did not the Lord see that you might not deal with His servant wisely? Did He not see that he needed to do services in some other part of His vineyard, just where he is? He who is the orderer of all things, He who numbers the hairs of our head, worked through His Spirit to transfer him to a field where he could do greater good, just as the careful, tender, earthly father would do in the interests of his children, only our God is infinitely more watchful over the interests of His sons and daughters. He is too wise to err, and too good to do them harm. He has a wise love, a great and unbounded love. “Are ye not of more value than many sparrows? and yet your heavenly Father feedeth them.” [Matthew 10:31; 6:26.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 152, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 152, 1906, par. 4

Let us hang our helpless souls upon Jesus Christ. We read in the Word that Christ taught His disciples that not a sparrow falleth to the ground without the notice of our heavenly Father. He told His brethren, “Ye are of more value than many sparrows.” [Matthew 10:31.] We are under the protection of the same Providence that guides the march of the stars. Our Protector is the same God who has taken each star under His own supervision. He who is watching the convulsions of empires is watching every movement of His church on earth. He sees every work that has been of a character to disappoint the waiting hopes and the anxious desires of those who yearn to see the work of God move on with decided success in this thrilling period of our earth’s history.

In Heavenly Places

Confessing Our Faith, December 22

HP 363.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 21, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, par. 2

And the Lord Jesus says, “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.” [Revelation 3:4.] O blessed, blessed possibility. “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment, and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my father, and before his angels.” [Verse 5.] “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 38, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 38, 1902, par. 12

“Whosoever therefore will confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.] Study these words. The Lord Jesus has many times been dishonored by your rash, passionate speeches. Will you not cease to utter such speeches. This you must do if you [are] ever [to] exert in the church an influence that is Christlike. Will you ask yourself the question, Am I confessing Christ, whose I am by creation and by redemption.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 52, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 52, 1903, par. 4

Religion is more than a mere theory. It is more than a passive acquiescence to truth. It is a living principle brought into the life, manifested in the daily occupation. True love in the home requires sacrifice, especially in the humble home. God values and commends hard, honest work. Let all remember that they belong to Christ, that they are brought with a price, and that God will be honored by their lives, as they faithfully perform their daily duties. Christ says to all, “Ye are My witnesses. Honor Me, and I will honor you. I will confess you before My Father, if you will confess Me by dealing justly and walking humbly with God.” [See Isaiah 43:10; 1 Samuel 2:30; Matthew 10:32; Micah 6:8.] A man may not be eloquent; he may not put himself forward in religious services, yet if he does his best, the Lord will help him as he lays his foundation upon the Rock and strives to carry out correct principles. Such a man will not betray sacred trusts.

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

MR No. 969—Faithfulness in Confessing Christ

12MR 227.1

“Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven” [Matthew 10:32]. Do you confess Christ in your expenditure of His entrusted means? Is He confessed when most of your income is spent on self, when the Lord’s tenth is withheld, and when gifts and offerings are used for your own pleasure and benefit? It would not be out of place for you to head a column in your domestic account book “Charity.” Had you done this, and had you put down all that you have spent for self, and all that you have used for charity, the list of that spent for self would make a large amount; but how would your column set apart for charity come out? Again I urge you to ask yourself, Do I confess Christ in my expenditure? Heading a column of your account book “Charity” would make a revelation to you. No other human eye may see that book but yourself, but the Lord Jesus Christ sees it, and your reward in the day of reckoning will be in accordance with your works.

Our High Calling

In the Midst of the Fire, December 18

OHC 358.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32.

That I May Know Him

To Which Party Do You Belong? July 27

TMK 214.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 75—Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas

DA 706.4

To this appeal Christ could not remain silent. There was a time to be silent, and a time to speak. He had not spoken until directly questioned. He knew that to answer now would make His death certain. But the appeal was made by the highest acknowledged authority of the nation, and in the name of the Most High. Christ would not fail to show proper respect for the law. More than this, His own relation to the Father was called in question. He must plainly declare His character and mission. Jesus had said to His disciples, “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32. Now by His own example He repeated the lesson.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 75—The Illegal Trial of Jesus

HLv 469.6

To this appeal Christ could not remain silent. He knew that to answer now would make His death certain. But the appeal was made by the highest acknowledged authority of the nation, and in the name of the Most High. He must plainly declare His character and mission. Jesus had said to His disciples, “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32. Now by His own example He repeated the lesson.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 4, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 4, 1888, par. 30

“Those who confess me in this wicked and adulterous generation, him will I confess before my Father and the holy angels.” [Matthew 10:32; Luke 12:8.] This means that in your conduct, in your thoughts and faculties and character and everything that you deport yourselves as Christians. You crucify Him afresh by your disloyal conduct. It is time that we were purifying ourselves as He is pure. Our human nature is to be as pure in our sphere, as God is in His divine sphere. It is to be without spot. He sent His Son to sanctify and take us to Himself, and in that gift He sent down all heaven to honor us with eternal life. What a gift is this! May God help us to come up to the mark of the high calling which is in Christ Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 16, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 16, 1890, par. 63

On no account will one real believer of the truth remain, even in appearance, neutral in an important crisis or in questions that concern the salvation of the soul. We are not to voice the sentiments of the world. Jesus says, “Whosoever will confess me before men him shall the Son of Man also confess before the Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.] God calls upon all to consider whom they will serve and whom they mean to worship, they will be swayed to the right or the left by the opinions and position of the world. Will they be time-servers? Now, before they advance another step, let all look carefully to see what are their feelings, their aims, and their purposes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 13, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, par. 1

“Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I also confess before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.] Do you confess Christ in your expenditure of His entrusted means? Is He confessed when most of your income is spent on self, when the Lord’s tenth is withheld, and when gifts and offerings are used for your own pleasure and benefit? It would not be out of place for you to head a column in your domestic account book “Charity.” Had you done this, and had you put down all that you have spent for self, and all that you have used for charity, the list of that spent for self would make a large amount, but how would your column set apart for charity come out? Again I urge you to ask yourself, Do I confess Christ in my expenditure? Heading a column of your account book “Charity,” would make a revelation to you. No other human eye may see that book but yourself, but the Lord Jesus Christ sees it, and your reward in the day of reckoning will be in accordance with your works.

Our Father Cares

Being Alive Unto God, September 11

OFC 266.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32, 33.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 6, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 6, 1903, par. 33

We may claim to be Seventh-day Adventists, and yet fail of realizing how exalted is the standard to which we must attain in order to deserve this name. Some have felt ashamed of being known as Seventh-day Adventists. Those who are ashamed of this name should never connect with those who feel it an honor to bear this name. And those who are Christ’s witnesses, standing where the truths of the Bible have placed them, are worthy of the name they bear. Our Redeemer declares, “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.” And He further declares: “Whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32, 33.]

Sons and Daughters of God

We Confess Christ, October 12

SD 292.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32, 33.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 28—Facing Life’s Record

GC 483.2

All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares, by the prophet Isaiah: “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isaiah 43:25. Said Jesus: “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” Revelation 3:5; Matthew 10:32, 33.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 28—The Investigative Judgment

GC88 483.2

All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of Heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares, by the prophet Isaiah, “I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” [Isaiah 43:25.] Said Jesus, “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in Heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in Heaven.” [Revelation 3:5; Matthew 10:32, 33.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 23—The Investigative Judgment

4SP 308.2

Christ himself declares: “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” [Revelation 3:5.] Again he said to his disciples: “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in Heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in Heaven.” [Matthew 10:32, 33.]

This Day With God

Being Alive Unto God, May 10

TDG 139.1

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 10:32, 33.

From Here to Forever

The Standard of Judgment

HF 298.1

All who have truly repented and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice have had pardon entered in the books of heaven. As they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares: “I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will ... confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.” Isaiah 43:25; Revelation 3:5; Matthew 10:32, 33.

Christ in His Sanctuary

Jesus the Advocate

CIHS 177.2

All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares, by the prophet Isaiah: “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isaiah 43:25. Said Jesus: “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” Revelation 3:5; Matthew 10:32, 33.

Homeward Bound

Pardoned, October 19

HB 320.3

All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares, by the prophet Isaiah: “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” (Isaiah 43:25.) Said Jesus: “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” “Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” (Revelation 3:5; Matthew 10:32, 33.)

The Great Controversy

Chapter 8—Luther Before the Diet

GC 155.3

Luther was conducted to a position directly in front of the emperor’s throne. A deep silence fell upon the crowded assembly. Then an imperial officer arose and, pointing to a collection of Luther’s writings, demanded that the Reformer answer two questions—whether he acknowledged them as his, and whether he proposed to retract the opinions which he had therein advanced. The titles of the books having been read, Luther replied that as to the first question, he acknowledged the books to be his. “As to the second,” he said, “seeing that it is a question which concerns faith and the salvation of souls, and in which the word of God, the greatest and most precious treasure either in heaven or earth, is involved, I should act imprudently were I to reply without reflection. I might affirm less than the circumstance demands, or more than truth requires, and so sin against this saying of Christ: ‘Whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.’ [Matthew 10:33.] For this reason I entreat your imperial majesty, with all humility, to allow me time, that I may answer without offending against the word of God.”—D’Aubigne, b. 7, ch. 8.

Homeward Bound

How Do We Deny Jesus? April 16

HB 125.1

But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.—Matthew 10:33.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 143, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 143, 1899, par. 16

“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, the whole body shall be full of light. And if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” [Matthew 6:19-23.] “Whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:33.]

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 8—Luther Before the Diet

GC88 156.1

Luther was conducted to a position directly in front of the emperor’s throne. A deep silence fell upon the crowded assembly. Then an imperial officer arose, and, pointing to a collection of Luther’s writings, demanded that the reformer answer two questions,—whether he acknowledged them as his, and whether he proposed to retract the opinions which he had therein advanced. The titles of the books having been read, Luther replied that as to the first question, he acknowledged the books to be his. “As to the second,” he said, “seeing it is a question which concerns faith, the salvation of souls, and the Word of God, which is the greatest and most precious treasure either in Heaven or earth, it would be rash and perilous for me to reply without reflection. I might affirm less than the circumstances demand, or more than truth requires; in either case I should fall under the sentence of Christ: ‘Whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in Heaven.’ [Matthew 10:33] For this reason I entreat your imperial majesty, with all humility, to allow me time, that I may answer without offending against the Word of God.”

GC88 159.1

“But as I am a mere man, and not God,” he continued, “I will defend myself as did Christ, who said, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil.’ By the mercy of God, I implore your imperial majesty, or any one else who can, whoever he may be, to prove to me from the writings of the prophets and apostles that I am in error. As soon as I shall be convinced, I will instantly retract all my errors, and will be the first to cast my books into the fire. What I have just said, will show that I have considered and weighed the dangers to which I am exposing myself; but far from being dismayed by them, I rejoice exceedingly to see the gospel this day, as of old, a cause of trouble and dissension. This is the character, the destiny, of God’s Word. Said Christ, ‘I came not to send peace, but a sword.’ [Matthew 10:34.] God is wonderful and terrible in his counsels. Let us have a care lest in our endeavors to arrest discords we be found to fight against the holy Word of God, and bring down upon our heads a frightful deluge of inextricable dangers, present disaster, and everlasting desolation.... I might cite examples drawn from the oracles of God. I might speak of Pharaohs, of kings of Babylon, or of Israel, who were never more contributing to their own ruin than when, by measures in appearance most prudent, they thought to establish their authority. God `removeth the mountains, and they know not.’” [Job 9:5.]

Ye Shall Receive Power

Meekness, March 10

YRP 78.4

“Whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 10:33). What right have we to profess to be Christians, and yet deny our Lord in life and deed? “He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it” (verses 38, 39). Day by day we are to deny self, to lift the cross and follow in the footsteps of the Master.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Pastoral Labor

GW92 71.3

In the work of the ministry there are battles to fight and victories to gain. “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth,” said Christ; “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] The opening labors of the Christian church were attended with hardships and bitter griefs, and the successors of the early apostles find that they must meet with trials similar to theirs; privations, calumny, and every species of opposition meet them in their labors. They must be men of stanch moral courage and of spiritual muscle.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

4SP 47.2

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to him the title, “Prince of peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sung above the plains of Bethlehem, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile man to God, and thus to his fellow-man. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings, occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 6—Luther’s Separation from Rome

4SP 101.2

But light and darkness cannot harmonize. Between truth and error there is an irrepressible conflict. To uphold and defend the one is to attack and overthrow the other. Our Saviour himself declared, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] Said Luther, a few years after the opening of the Reformation, “God does not conduct, but drives me forward. I am not master of my own actions. I would gladly live in repose, but I am thrown into the midst of tumults and revolutions.” He was now about to be urged into the contest.

The Upward Look

No Peace at Any Price, July 25

UL 220.1

Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 8—Peter and John Freed From Prison

TT 45.5

Christ said of Himself, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. The Prince of Peace, He was yet the cause of division. He who came to proclaim glad tidings opened a controversy that burns deep and arouses intense passion in the human heart. And He warns His followers, “Ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.” Luke 21:16.

From Here to Forever

Two Classes in the Church

HF 30.3

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? Angels sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ: “I come not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. The religion of Christ, received and obeyed, would spread peace and happiness throughout the earth. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large is under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents principles of life wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise against it. They hate the purity which condemns sin, and they persecute those who urge upon them its holy claims. It is in this sense that the gospel is called a sword.

From Here to Forever

Truth on Pilate’s Staircase

HF 80.1

But between truth and error there is conflict. Our Saviour Himself declared: “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. Said Luther, a few years after the opening of the Reformation: “God ... pushes me forward. ... I desire to live in repose; but I am thrown into the midst of tumults and revolutions.”7D’Aubigne, bk. 5, ch. 2.

From the Heart

Truth Conquers Evil, February 28

FH 71.1

Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. Matthew 10:34.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 1, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 1, 1882, par. 69

The Son of God was the Light of the world. He was manifested that He might draw all men unto Him; but He declares He came not to send peace on earth, but a sword. [Matthew 10:34.] His followers must walk in the light of His glorious example without questioning, Is it convenient for me to do this? Christ does not consult your convenience. He did not consult His own convenience, but left the royal courts of heaven, laid aside His royal robes, and for our sakes became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 5, 1882

3LtMs, Ms 5, 1882, par. 11

Evening after the Sabbath I spoke in the courthouse to the people upon Christ riding into Jerusalem and the barren fig tree. The Son of God came to our world that He might draw all men unto Him. He came, He says, not to send peace but a sword. [Matthew 10:34.] His followers must walk in the light of His glorious example. They are not to question at what cost of labor and trial and suffering. There is a work for each and all to undertake to maintain the truth in its purity and push the triumphs of His cross and extend His kingdom.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 23, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 23, 1885, par. 5

The Bible is now and ever has been a cause of dissension. This ever will be the effect of God’s Word. Jesus says, I came not to send peace on the earth but a sword. See Matthew 10:34. God is wonderful in counsel, and He can bring to naught men who exalt themselves and who dare to trample His holy law under their unholy feet. Although my work and mission are made the subject of ridicule and sneers of men who claim to be wholly sanctified to God, although the subject of sanctification is the one theme on which I am called by them a pretender, a hypocrite, yet I am not angry, neither am I terrified by my adversaries.

Our High Calling

Christ’s Legacy of Peace, November 18

OHC 328.3

Though he bore the title of Prince of Peace, Christ said of Himself, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34.... The Prince of Peace, He was yet the cause of division.25The Review and Herald, January 16, 1900.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 31, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 31, 1889, par. 62

Christ declared, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] Why? Because men would not receive the Word of life. Because they warred against the message sent them to bring them joy and hope and life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 25b, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 25b, 1892, par. 30

A passive piety will not answer for this time; let the passiveness be manifested where it is needed, in patience, kindness, and forbearance. But we must bear a decided message of warning to the world. The Prince of Peace thus proclaimed His work, “I came not to send peace on earth but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] Evil must be assailed; falsehood and error must be made to appear in their true character; sin must be denounced; and the testimony of every believer in the truth must be as one. All your little differences, which arouse the combative spirit among brethren, are devices of Satan to divert minds from the great and fearful issue before us. The true peace will come among God’s people when, through united zeal and earnest prayer, the false peace that exists to a large degree is disturbed. Now there is earnest work to do. Now is the time to manifest your soldierly qualities; let the Lord’s people present a united front to the foes of God and truth and righteousness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 23b, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, par. 2

Shortly before His crucifixion, Christ bequeathed to His disciples a legacy of peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you.” [John 14:27.] Christ bears the title of the Prince of peace, and yet He says of Himself, “Think not that I am come to find peace on earth; I am not come to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] In explanation of this apparent contradiction, He has said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation;” “in me ye shall have peace.” [John 16:33.] He told them that the time would come when they would be hated of all men for His name’s sake; that they would be brought before kings and rulers; that to destroy their lives would be esteemed a service done to God and religion. This has been fulfilled. Every indignity reproach, and cruelty that Satan can instigate human hearts to devise has been visited upon the followers of Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 105, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 105, 1898, par. 30

It is for such workings as these that Christ says, “I came not to send peace but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] May God grant that never again shall this policy exist in our institutions, that no events or combination of events shall lead men to repeat the past.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 367, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 367, 1905, par. 15

The Son of God is revealed, yes manifested, that He might draw all men unto Him. He said, “I came not to send peace on earth, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] His followers must walk in the light of His glorious example at whatever sacrifice or peril of property or life itself. The true reformation must be after the heavenly order, bearing the divine signature and push the triumph of the cross of Christ. The reformers of today, 1905, must be decided, resolute, and unflinchingly stand in the light of the cross of Calvary.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 42, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, par. 19

But I am to say to you, The Son of God was manifested that He might establish true reforms, and that He might draw all men unto Him. He tells us that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] The Son of God calls Himself the Son of Man. He came to draw all men unto Him, but some will not be drawn. He says, “I came not to send peace on earth, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.]

Reflecting Christ

Christ “the Prince of Peace,” January 24

RC 38.8

There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ: “I came not to send peace, but a sword” (Matthew 10:34). But, rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another.—The Great Controversy, 46, 47.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 8—Before the Sanhedrin

AA 84.2

Christ said of Himself, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. The Prince of Peace, He was yet the cause of division. He who came to proclaim glad tidings and to create hope and joy in the hearts of the children of men, opened a controversy that burns deep and arouses intense passion in the human heart. And He warns His followers, “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” “They shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake.” “Ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.” John 16:33; Luke 21:12, 16.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC 46.3

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to Him the title, “Prince of Peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ: “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. But, rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 7—Luther’s Separation From Rome

GC 126.3

But light and darkness cannot harmonize. Between truth and error there is an irrepressible conflict. To uphold and defend the one is to attack and overthrow the other. Our Saviour Himself declared: “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. Said Luther, a few years after the opening of the Reformation: “God does not guide me, He pushes me forward. He carries me away. I am not master of myself. I desire to live in repose; but I am thrown into the midst of tumults and revolutions.”—D’Aubigne, b. 5, ch. 2. He was now about to be urged into the contest.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC88 46.2

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to him the title, “Prince of peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sung above the plains of Bethlehem, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings, occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 7—Luther’s Separation from Rome

GC88 126.3

But light and darkness cannot harmonize. Between truth and error there is an irrepressible conflict. To uphold and defend the one is to attack and overthrow the other. Our Saviour himself declared, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] Said Luther, a few years after the opening of the Reformation, “God does not conduct, but drives me forward. I am not master of my own actions. I would gladly live in repose, but I am thrown into the midst of tumults and revolutions.” He was now about to be urged into the contest.

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

Walk in the Light

3MR 78.2

Obedience to the will of God will involve a cross. Christ says: “Think not that I am come to send peace on the earth.” “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. And we find that the truth for this age, if lived out, will “set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.” Verses 35, 36.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 41, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 41, 1886, par. 11

Obedience to the will of God will involve a cross. Christ says: “Think not that I am come to send peace on the earth.” “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. And we find that the truth for this age, if lived out, will “set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.” Verses 35, 36.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 105, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 105, 1894, par. 11

We belong to Christ, for he has bought both us and our children. But we may be unfaithful to our trust and educate our children to think more highly of earthly treasure than of heavenly things. If we give the world the advantage and permit it to hold the attention and to absorb the service, then we need not wonder that worldliness fills every space and there is no room left for the admittance of the light proceeding from Christ. Those who make up with the world, will be swayed by the principles of the world. The Spirit that works in the heart of the disobedient will work in the hearts of ourselves and our children. The Lord will have the whole heart or nothing. A certain lawyer came to Christ and said, “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said, “What is written in the law? How readest thou?” And he answering said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” And he said unto him, “Thou hast answered right; this do and thou shalt life.” [Luke 10:25-28.] God has plainly revealed the way of salvation, and shall you or I venture to seek to find some other way whereby we may obtain the precious boon of eternal life? God has given to us the opportunity of obtaining light and knowledge, and shall we refuse the message sent from heaven? Shall we refuse the truth because we see that its acceptance would cause us to be separated from those who will not hear the truth or believe in the message of heaven? Shall we make a concession to the world and bind ourselves up with its bundles for the fires of the last days? They have pulled away the shoulder because they would not take the yoke of Christ and refused to lift his burden. They would not follow in his footsteps. Christ says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Those who turn away from the truth, stop their ears lest they shall hear, and turn into fables. They act like disobedient, stubborn children, and then they lay the blame and accusations upon those who are truth-loving and obedient, declaring that they create disunion among neighbors and bring about dissension among families. Christ was accused of creating division in families; he himself said, “Think not that I am come to send peace on the earth; I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s foes shall be those of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:34-38.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 75, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 75, 1895, par. 10

Many have to bear scorn, ridicule and derision because of obedience to the commandments of God. Christ says, “Think not that I am come to send peace on the earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at a variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me, and he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:34-38.] “Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son: and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” [Mark 13:12, 13.]

Maranatha

Betrayed by Friends and Relatives, July 8

Mar 197.1

A man’s foes shall be they of his own household. Matthew 10:36.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 18—“Go Into the Highways and Hedges”

COL 223.2

The lesson is for all time. We are to follow the Lamb of God whithersoever He goeth. His guidance is to be chosen, His companionship valued above the companionship of earthly friends. Christ says, “He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me, and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.” Matthew 10:37.

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

MR No. 909—Attending and Acting in Theatrical Performances

11MR 336.1

My sister, you cannot have an experimental knowledge of the love of God in the soul, and the joy of true obedience to your Lord, who has bought you and your family with the price of His own blood, while you join yourself to these things. Your family do not understand as do you the reasons of the faith that leads away from all such pursuits. You can never be free in Jesus Christ and yet have a divided heart. My sister, you need now to consider that your influence in accompanying your daughters to the theater is decidedly against Christ. He declares that “he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37).

Living by Principle

Marriage

PH048 28.1

Matthew 10:37: He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

The Review and Herald

September 16, 1862

RH September 16, 1862, par. 5

You may plead that you cannot keep the Sabbath because your friends do not keep it. Such an excuse you will not dare to plead before Him who suffered so much to redeem you. Matthew 10:37: “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me is not worthy of me.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 19b, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 19b, 1892, par. 16

What is needed, then, is to set at work scores, yes hundreds, who now have their light hidden under a bushel or under a bed. There has been most earnest work in establishing ministerial schools in different localities. These schools bring responsibilities upon those who are privileged with these advantages. They are to arise and shine. Having received the precious light, they are to diffuse it to others. What is to set in operation the forces that can work and should work? The words of Christ are worthy of earnest consideration: “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:37) Solemn words!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 58a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 7

My sister, you cannot have an experimental knowledge of the love of God in the soul, and the joy of true obedience to your Lord, who has bought you and your family with the price of His own blood, while you join yourself to these things. Your family do not understand as do you the reasons of the faith that leads away from all such pursuits. You can never be free in Jesus Christ and yet have a divided heart. My sister, you need now to consider that your influence, in accompanying your daughters to the theater, is decidedly against Christ. He declares that “he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:37.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 58, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 58, 1902, par. 3

“He that loveth son and daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:37.] Love for relatives is not to take the place of love for God. But this caution is not to lead to a disregard for friends and relatives. But when we are called upon to decide between our relatives and our Saviour, we are without hesitation to accept Christ. To many this test has come. For the sake of their belief in Jesus of Nazareth, they have been called upon to sacrifice the ties of home and friendship, and they could but say, “He gave His life for me. He died that I might live. Shall I refuse to sacrifice for His sake?”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 147, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 147, 1902, par. 9

My dear brethren and sisters, I speak to you in words of love and tenderness. Every earthly interest must be made subordinate to the great work of redemption. Remember that in the lives of the followers of Christ must be seen the same devotion, the same subjection to God’s work of every social claim and every earthly affection, that was seen in His life. God’s claims must ever be made paramount. “He that loveth father or mother more than Me, is not worthy of Me.” [Matthew 10:37.] His life is our lesson book. His example is to inspire us to put forth untiring, self-sacrificing effort for the good of others.

Conflict and Courage

Why Elisha? August 3

CC 221.1

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:37, 38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 109, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 109, 1893, par. 7

Then said Jesus unto His disciples, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24. “He that loveth father and mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:37, 38) The Lord Jesus warns and cautions, and bids every one to count the cost and not live a life of deception and delude his own soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 7, 1875

2LtMs, Ms 7, 1875, par. 1

The angel repeated with solemnity these words: “He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after Me is not worthy of Me. He that findeth his life shall lose it, and he that loseth his life for My sake shall find it.” [Matthew 10:37-39.]

Sons and Daughters of God

If We Shun the Cross, We Lose Eternal Life, August 29

SD 248.1

He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 12, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 12, 1894, par. 4

The words of Christ mean very much to each one of us; but we are not practical doers of His words. “He that will come after me,” says Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] “And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Matthew 10:38.] We must follow closely in the footsteps of Christ, then we shall be wholly the Lord’s; soul, body, and spirit will be devoted to doing the works of Christ. Time is short, very short; the end is near. But we are not to be content to remain in idle expectancy, neither should we be practicing selfish indulgence. We want to lay up our treasures in heaven. The time now devoted to fashioning and admiring the little nothings that please the taste should be wholly given to God in labor for our fellow men for whom Christ has given His life. He died for them that through His death they might live. Through faith in Him, not one need perish; all may have everlasting life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 22, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 22, 1890, par. 39

“He that taketh not up his cross and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me.” “He that findeth his life shall lose it.” [Matthew 10:38, 39.] He who shuns self-denial and self-sacrifice will lose his soul. He, who, in his ministry is true and faithful, may lose his life in this world, but he will find it in the kingdom of God. When Christ comes, he will receive eternal life.

Our High Calling

Subject to God’s Call, October 8

OHC 287.5

The true Christian works unselfishly and untiringly for the Master. He does not seek ease or self-gratification, but holds all, even life itself, subject to God’s call. And to him are spoken the words, “He that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 10:39.15The Youth’s Instructor, June 12, 1902.

The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters

May 6, 1907

PC 119.3

What a terrible mistake for a professed Christian to devote to himself all his time and means and energies! All are to deny themselves, that they may follow Christ. Many souls have not refrained from accepting martyrdom for the sake of Christ. For them is the blessed promise, “He that loseth his life for My sake shall save it unto life eternal.” (Matthew 10:39)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 133, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 133, 1905, par. 10

“If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” [Verse 7.] “He that findeth his life shall lose it; and he that loseth his life for My sake shall find it.” [Matthew 10:39.] “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed with white raiment, and I will not blot out his name from the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” [Revelation 2:7; 3:5.] “He whom I love will I rebuke and chasten, and in him will I delight, even as a father in his son; yea, they shall go forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father, and shall inherit all things.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 190, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, par. 12

This is our period of stewardship, when we are to trade with our Lord’s goods. Our means, our speech, our influence—all are talents to be used in the Master’s service and to be multiplied by wise investment. We must increase our capabilities for service. If God has entrusted us with three talents, He will not accept two in return. If we have but one talent, but with it gain yet another, we have a place in Christ’s service and will finally hear the blessed words of approval from the lips of the Saviour. It is a terrible mistake for a professed Christian to devote his time and means and energies to the service of self. We are to deny self, that we may follow Christ. Many souls have not refrained from accepting martyrdom for the sake of Christ. For such is the blessed promise, “He that loseth his life for My sake shall find it unto life eternal.” [Matthew 10:39; John 12:25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 170, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, par. 17

What a terrible mistake for a professed Christian to devote to himself all his time and means and energies! All are to deny themselves, that they may follow Christ. Many souls have not refrained from accepting martyrdom for the sake of Christ. For them is the blessed promise, “He that loseth his life for My sake shall save it unto life eternal.” [Matthew 10:39; Mark 8:35; John 12:25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 64, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 64, 1890, par. 3

He identified Himself with humanity and said to His disciples, “He that receiveth you receiveth Me,” their Redeemer. [Matthew 10:40.] “He that rejecteth you, rejecteth Me.” [Luke 10:16.] Jesus has purchased man by an infinite price and owns the perishing souls the world over. He sends men as agents to work in behalf of man, giving them messages of mercy to bear to the sinful race. Humanity touches humanity. Many make serious blunders now, as in former times when Christ came to our world in the garments of humanity. He works with human instrumentalities and gives to His messengers a message from Himself to bear to perishing souls.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 49, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 49, 1894, par. 32

Dear friends, we have a living Saviour, and He has not left us in this world to fight the battles alone. No. But He has not flattered us. He did not tell us, If you will believe on Me, you shall have no trials, no difficulties. He says, “If they receive you, they will receive Me. If they hate Me, they will hate you.” [See Matthew 10:40; John 15:18.] And He tells us that there shall be those “that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” [John 16:2.] That is a terrible deception that comes on human minds. But here He has shown you the plan of the battle; He tells you what you are to meet. “We struggle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] This is what we have to meet. Then what does He say? “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” [Verse 11.]

Conflict and Courage

“More Blessed to Give,” July 20

CC 207.3

God has not changed. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah.... To His faithful servants today as well as to His first disciples Christ’s words apply: “He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me” (Matthew 10:40). No act of kindness shown in His name will fail to be recognized and rewarded. And in the same tender recognition Christ includes even the feeblest and lowliest of the family of God. “Whosoever shall give to drink,” He says, “unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in their faith and their knowledge of Christ—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42).

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke

PK 131.5

The widow of Zarephath shared her morsel with Elijah, and in return her life and that of her son were preserved. And to all who, in time of trial and want, give sympathy and assistance to others more needy, God has promised great blessing. He has not changed. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. No less sure now than when spoken by our Saviour is the promise, “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.

PK 132.2

To His faithful servants today Christ says, “He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me.” No act of kindness shown in His name will fail to be recognized and rewarded. And in the same tender recognition Christ includes even the feeblest and lowliest of the family of God. “Whosoever shall give to drink,” He says, “unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in their faith and their knowledge of Christ—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Matthew 10:40, 42.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 43—Showing Hospitality

6T 346.2

God has not changed. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. And no less sure now than when spoken by our Saviour is the promise that Christ has given: “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.

6T 347.1

To His faithful servants today as well as to His first disciples Christ’s words apply: “He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me.” Verse 40. No act of kindness shown in His name will fail to be recognized and rewarded. And in the same tender recognition Christ includes even the feeblest and lowliest of the family of God. “Whosoever shall give to drink,” He says, “unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in their faith and their knowledge of Christ—a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in nowise lose his reward.” Verse 42.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

“I Will Repay”

2TT 573.3

To His faithful servants today as well as to His first disciples Christ’s words apply: “He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent Me.” Verse 40. No act of kindness shown in His name will fail to be recognized and rewarded. And in the same tender recognition Christ includes even the feeblest and lowliest of the family of God. “Whosoever shall give to drink,” He says, “unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in their faith and their knowledge of Christ—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Verse 42.

From Splendor to Shadow

Hospitality Rewarded

SS 68.6

The widow of Zarephath shared her morsel with Elijah, and in return her life and that of her son were preserved. And to all who give sympathy and assistance to others more needy, God has promised great blessing. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.

SS 69.2

Today Christ says, “He that receiveth you receiveth Me.” No act of kindness shown in Christ’s name will fail to be rewarded. And Christ includes even the lowliest of the family of God: “Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones”—those who are as children in faith and knowledge—“a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Matthew 10:40-42.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 63, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, par. 9

Matthew 10:40-42. We have our work to do and hitherto hath the Lord helped me. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] I have proved this word of Christ and have found that rest. Let all come in full faith to Jesus.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Christ’s Lesson of Hospitality

2TT 573.2

God has not changed. His power is no less now than in the days of Elijah. And no less sure now than when spoken by our Saviour is the promise that Christ has given: “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward.” Matthew 10:41.

With God at Dawn

Simplicity, October 12

WGD 287.1

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. Matthew 10:42.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 35, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 35, 1895, par. 2

Christ suffered in the flesh. He had clothed His divinity with humanity, and in every period of His life, through infancy, childhood, youth, and manhood, He had suffered every phase of trial and temptation with which humanity is beset. He knew what it was to suffer keen pangs of hunger, and He has given special lessons in regard to feeding the hungry and caring for the needy poor, and has declared that in ministering to the needy we are ministering to Himself in the person of His saints. He says, “I was an hungered and ye gave me meat.” [Matthew 25:35.] He knew the discomfort and suffering of thirst, and He declared that a cup of cold water given in His name to any of His disciples should not lose its reward. [Matthew 10:42.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 58, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 8

When the mother and brothers of Christ came desiring to see Him, the Saviour looked upon His disciples and said, “Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.” Matthew 12:49, 50. All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. And Jesus said, “Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, ... he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Matthew 10:42.