EGW WritingsMatthew 12
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Matthew 12 in the BibleMatthew 12:1-50
Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1182—A Caution Against Heavy Investment in Food Manufacture
15MR 321.3
All are to hear the last message of warning. The prophecies in the book of Revelation, chapters 12 to 18, are being fulfilled. In the eighteenth chapter is recorded the very last call to the churches. This call is now to be given. In the nineteenth chapter, the time is pictured when the beast and the false prophet are taken and cast into the lake of fire. The dragon, who was the instigator of the great rebellion against heaven, is bound and cast into the bottomless pit for a thousand years. Then follows the resurrection of the wicked and the final destruction of Satan and all the wicked, and the final triumph and reign of Christ in this earth.From Heaven With Love
Caiaphas Urges Deceit
HLv 522.2
But there were witnesses whom they could not silence. Many had heard of the soldiers’ testimony to Christ’s resurrection. And certain of the dead who came forth with Christ appeared to many and declared that He had risen. The priests and rulers were in continual dread, lest in walking the streets or within the privacy of their own homes, they should come face to face with Christ. Bolts and bars were but poor protection against the Son of God. By day and by night that awful scene when they had cried, “His blood be on us, and on our children,” was before them. Matthew 27:25.From Heaven With Love
The Guarantee of Our Resurrection
HLv 522.3
When the voice of the mighty angel was heard at Christ’s tomb, saying, Thy Father calls Thee, the Saviour came forth from the grave by the life that was in Himself. Christ had proclaimed in triumph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” These words could be spoken only by the Deity. All created beings are dependent recipients of the life of God. Only He who is one with God could say, I have power to lay down My life, and I have power to take it again. See John 10:18.HLv 522.4
Christ arose from the dead as the first fruits of those that slept, and His resurrection took place on the very day when the wave sheaf was to be presented before the Lord. For more than a thousand years when the people went up to Jerusalem to the Passover, the sheaf of first fruits, the first heads of ripened grain, was waved as a thank offering before the Lord. Not until this was presented could the sickle be put to the grain. The sheaf dedicated to God represented the harvest. So Christ’s resurrection is the type and pledge of the resurrection of all the righteous dead. “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.” 1 Thessalonians 4:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 40, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15
The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 81—“The Lord Is Risen”
HLv 520.1
The night of the first day of the week had worn slowly away. Christ was still a prisoner in His tomb. The Roman seal was unbroken; the Roman guards were keeping their watch. Had it been possible, the prince of darkness would have kept forever sealed the tomb that held the Son of God. But heavenly angels that excel in strength were waiting to welcome the Prince of life.HLv 520.2
“And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven.” The bright beams of God’s glory illuminated his pathway. “His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.”HLv 520.3
This messenger was he who fills the position from which Satan fell. As he rolled away the stone, heaven seemed to come down to earth. The soldiers saw him removing the stone as he would a pebble, and heard him cry, Son of God, come forth; Thy Father calls Thee. They saw Jesus come forth from the grave and heard Him proclaim over the rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection, and the life.” As He came forth in majesty and glory, the angel host welcomed Him with songs of praise.HLv 520.4
At sight of the angels and the glorified Saviour, the Roman guard had fainted and become as dead men. When the heavenly train was hidden from their view, they arose and, staggering like drunken men, hurried to the city, telling those whom they met the wonderful news. They were making their way to Pilate, but the priests and rulers sent for them to be brought first into their presence. Trembling with fear, their faces colorless, the soldiers told all, just as they had seen it. They said, It was the Son of God who was crucified; we have heard an angel proclaiming Him as the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory.HLv 521.1
Caiaphas tried to speak. His lips moved, but they uttered no sound. The soldiers were about to leave when Caiaphas at last found speech. Wait, wait, he said. Tell no one the things you have seen.HLv 521.2
“Say ye,” said the priests, “His disciples came by night, and stole Him away while we slept.” Here the priests overreached themselves. If they were asleep, how could they know? And if the disciples had been proved guilty of stealing Christ’s body, would not the priests have been first to condemn them? Or if the sentinels had slept, would not the priests have been foremost in accusing them to Pilate?HLv 521.3
The soldiers were horrified. Sleeping at their post was an offense punishable with death. Should they bear false witness and place their own lives in peril? How could they stand the trial, even for the sake of money, if they perjured themselves?HLv 521.4
The priests promised to secure the safety of the guard, saying that Pilate would not desire to have such a report circulated any more than they did. The Roman soldiers sold their integrity for money. They came before the priests burdened with a startling message of truth; they went out with a burden of money, and on their tongues a lying report.HLv 521.5
Meanwhile the report of Christ’s resurrection had been carried to Pilate. Though he had condemned the Saviour unwillingly, he had felt no real compunction until now. In terror he now shut himself within his house, determined to see no one. But the priests made their way into his presence and urged him to overlook the sentinels’ neglect of duty. He himself privately questioned the guard. They dared not conceal anything, and Pilate drew from them an account of all that had taken place. He did not prosecute the matter further, but from that time there was no peace for him.HLv 522.1
The priests, in putting Christ to death, had made themselves the tools of Satan. Now they were entirely in his power, entangled in a snare from which they saw no escape but in continuing their warfare against Christ. The only hope for them was to prove Christ an impostor by denying that He had risen. They bribed the soldiers and secured Pilate’s silence.HLv 523.1
As Christ arose, He brought from the grave a multitude of captives. See Matthew 27:52. They were those who at the cost of their lives had borne testimony to the truth. Now they were to be witnesses for Him who had raised them from the dead.HLv 523.2
During His ministry, Jesus had raised the dead to life. But these resurrected ones were not clothed with immortality. They were still subject to death. But those who came forth from the grave at Christ’s resurrection were raised to everlasting life. They ascended with Him as trophies of His victory over death and the grave. They went into the city and appeared unto many, declaring, Christ has risen from the dead, and we be risen with Him. Risen saints bore witness to the truth of the words, “Thy dead men shall live, together with My dead body shall they arise.” Isaiah 26:19.HLv 523.3
In our Saviour, the life that was lost through sin is restored. He is invested with the right to give immortality. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. “Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:54. To the Christian, death is but a sleep, a moment of silence and darkness. “When Christ, who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.” Colossians 3:4.HLv 523.4
The voice that cried from the cross, “It is finished,” will penetrate the graves and unbar the tombs, and the dead in Christ shall arise. At the Saviour’s resurrection a few graves were opened, but at His second coming all the precious dead shall hear His voice and come forth to glorious immortal life. The same power that raised Christ from the dead will raise His church above all powers, not only in this world, but also in the world to come.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 53, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4
In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6
We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 91, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15
Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.Matthew 12:2-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 12, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 12, 1894, par. 8
We may everyone lay hold on the hope that is set before us. “He that believeth on me the works that I do shall he do also,” and He says, “I kept My Father’s commandments.” [John 14:12; 15:10.] The Pharisees said when the disciples rubbed the ears of corn as they went through the wheat fields, “He has broken the Sabbath.” [Matthew 12:2.] Could they have fastened that upon Him, then what? They would not have had to get false witnesses to speak against Him. They would have condemned Him as a Sabbath-breaker. But He said, “Ye do not know what this means, I will have mercy and not sacrifice,” or ye would not have condemned the guiltless. [Verse 7.]Matthew 12:2-12
The Story of Jesus
Chapter 11—Sabbathkeeping
SJ 69.3
“Behold, Thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the Sabbath day.” Matthew 12:2.SJ 70.5
This they could not answer. So He said, “How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days.” Matthew 12:11, 12.Matthew 12:3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 48, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 48, 1899, par. 40
When a question was brought to Christ, His answer was, “Have ye not read?” “What saith the Scripture?” [Matthew 12:3.] Christ could have answered every perplexing question to Him, but He did not do this. He directed His questioners to the great storehouse of light and knowledge. He was not always to be with them in human form, and He would put into their hands the Word of the living God. “How readest thou?” He said; “Search the Scriptures.” [Luke 10:26; Matthew 5:39.] He referred them to His own inspired textbook, that when tempted by the enemy, they might meet him as He had done, saying, “It is written.” Thus the truth would be sent home to the heart, and Satan would be driven back. Satan can have no power over the soul that relies on the living testimony.Matthew 12:5-7
To Be Like Jesus
The Sabbath Designed to Bring Us Into Harmony With God, May 15
BLJ 146.3
The Jewish teachers prided themselves on their knowledge of the Scriptures, and in the Savior’s answer there was an implied rebuke for their ignorance of the Sacred Writings. “Have ye not read so much as this,” He said, “what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him; how he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread ...; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?” (Luke 6:3, 4). “And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath” (Mark 2:27). “Have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple” (Matthew 12:5, 6). “The Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath” (Mark 2:28)....BLJ 146.4
Jesus did not let the matter pass without administering a rebuke to His enemies. He declared that in their blindness they had mistaken the object of the Sabbath. He said, “If ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless” (Matthew 12:7). Their many heartless rites could not supply the lack of that truthful integrity and tender love which will ever characterize the true worshiper of God....Matthew 12:5-8
From Heaven With Love
A Sabbath Lesson
HLv 187.4
In the Saviour’s answer to His accusers there was an implied rebuke for their ignorance of the Sacred Writings: “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat?” “And He said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” “Or have you not read in the law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than the temple is here.” “The Son of man is Lord of the Sabbath.” Luke 6:3, 4, RSV; Mark 2:27, 28; Matthew 12:5, 6, 8, RSV.HLv 188.3
Jesus declared that in their blindness His enemies had mistaken the object of the Sabbath. He said, “If ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.” Matthew 12:7. Their heartless rites could not supply the lack of that integrity and tender love which characterize the true worshiper of God.Matthew 12:5-12
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 29—The Sabbath
DA 285.1
The Jewish teachers prided themselves on their knowledge of the Scriptures, and in the Saviour’s answer there was an implied rebuke for their ignorance of the Sacred Writings. “Have ye not read so much as this,” He said, “what David did, when himself was an hungered, and they which were with him; how he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread,... which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?” “And He said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” “Have ye not read in the law, how that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.” “The Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath.” Luke 6:3, 4; Mark 2:27, 28; Matthew 12:5, 6.DA 285.4
Jesus did not let the matter pass without administering a rebuke to His enemies. He declared that in their blindness they had mistaken the object of the Sabbath. He said, “If ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.” Matthew 12:7. Their many heartless rites could not supply the lack of that truthful integrity and tender love which will ever characterize the true worshiper of God.DA 286.3
When questioned, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath days?” Jesus answered, “What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the Sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days.” Matthew 12:10-12.Matthew 12:6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 51, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 51, 1890, par. 12
In a body which God—and not man—had prepared, He was fully able to unveil and disclose to man the perfection of Jehovah and reveal His paternal character as a God of infinite love. “No man,” He declared, “knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son shall reveal him.” Matthew 11:27. He stood upon the highest elevated platform. He held the salvation of the lost world in His hands. He declared, “All things are delivered unto me of my Father.” On a certain occasion He said, “I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.” Matthew 12:6.Matthew 12:8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 12, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 13
Christ Himself came to explain the law, and He presents the Sabbath on its original basis. He said, “I am the Lord of the Sabbath.” [See Matthew 12:8.] The Bible truth is not hid from anyone, unless it is hid to them that are lost, because they will not take the plain statement of the Word of God. Antichrists appear. Satan and evil angels counsel to do away with God’s sign. They said, “We will take Sunday, and make the world believe it is the Sabbath of [the] fourth commandment.” When they will compel all <to keep it,> that is the mark of the beast and his image. All the lying signs and wonders, and mass of corruptions and slime, are the imprint of the satanic. They show blindness that is inconceivable.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 91, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 91, 1894, par. 9
But the Sabbath is not Jewish in its origin. It was instituted in Eden before there were such a people known as the Jews. The Sabbath was made for all mankind, and was instituted in Eden before the fall of man. The Creator called it “My holy day.” [Isaiah 58:13.] Christ announced Himself as “the Lord of the Sabbath.” [Matthew 12:8.] Beginning with creation, it is as old as the human race, and having been made for man it will exist as long as man shall exist. Hallowed by the Creator’s rest and blessing, the Sabbath was kept by Adam in his innocence in holy Eden; but Adam fallen, yet repentant, when he was driven from his happy estate. It was kept by all the patriarchs from Abel to Noah, to Abraham, to Jacob. When the chosen people were in bondage in Egypt, many, in the midst of the prevailing idolatry, lost their knowledge of God’s law; but when the Lord delivered Israel, He proclaimed His law in awful grandeur to the assembled multitude, that they might know His will, and fear and obey Him forever.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Lord of the Sabbath, November 26
JNN 347.1
“For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”—Matthew 12:8Matthew 12:8-12
To Be Like Jesus
Do Good on the Sabbath, May 12
BLJ 143.1
“For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” ... “It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:8-12, NKJV.Matthew 12:10-12
To Be Like Jesus
Doing Well on the Sabbath Honors the Day, May 14
BLJ 145.1
Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath. Matthew 12:12, NKJV.BLJ 145.2
When questioned, “Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days?” Jesus answered, “What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days” (Matthew 12:10-12).From Heaven With Love
Jesus Deliberately Heals on the Sabbath
HLv 189.3
When questioned, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” Jesus answered, “What man of you, if he has one sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:10-12, RSV.Matthew 12:11-12
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 6, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 6, 1901, par. 4
I will try to act my part by giving one hundred dollars to clear Brother Barry’s path. There is hope for the man. I am instructed by Christ, “What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the Sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much is a man better than a sheep?” [Matthew 12:11, 12.] We cannot afford to imperil one soul for whom Christ has paid so great a price.Matthew 12:12
My Life Today
Do Good on the Sabbath, August 15
ML 231.1
It is lawful to do well on the sabbath days. Matthew 12:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 3, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 3, 1885, par. 6
Some of the people have been sending their children to school on the Sabbath. And some have tried to justify their course by quoting the words of Christ, “It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.” [Matthew 12:12.] But the same reasoning would prove that men may labor on the Sabbath because they must earn bread for their children; and there is no limit, no boundary line, to show what should and what should not be done. Had these dear brethren possessed greater spirituality, had they realized the binding claims of God’s law as every one of us should, they would have known their duty and need not have been walking in darkness. They cannot enjoy the approval of God while they place their children where it is impossible for them to obey the fourth commandment. They should endeavor to make some arrangements with the authorities whereby their children can be excused from attendance at school upon the seventh day. If this fails, then their duty is plain—to obey God’s requirements at whatever cost. Whenever it can be done, our people should establish schools of their own. If, after they have plainly stated their faith, the officer of justice comes to their doors and compels their children to attend school, then they should faithfully instruct the children, and as soon as possible remove to some place where there are different laws, and they can be free to keep the commandments of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 27, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 27, 1885, par. 11
Special pains should be taken to establish schools among ourselves. Elder Matteson has not given to our people a correct example. He has sent his children to school upon the Sabbath and to justify his course has used the words of Christ, “It is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days.” [Matthew 12:12.] He may urge the same reason why men should work on the Sabbath, because they must earn bread to feed their children; and there is no boundary line to tell what should and should not be done upon the Sabbath. And while holding the claims of the fourth commandment so loosely, these leaders were, by their example, encouraging the false tests which man has manufactured. The matter of dress was the subject to test character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 34, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 34, 1897, par. 29
One teacher stated before the church that he thought it right to send the children on the Sabbath, quoting the words of Christ, “It is lawful to do well on the Sabbath day.” [Matthew 12:12.] The question is, Shall we transgress the plain letter of the commandment in order that our children may be educated in the schools? In the very act of giving them lessons in which there is no sacredness, the Sabbath, that is to be a test to the world, a sign between God and his people, is brought down on a level with the common working days. When we see the law of God made void in our world, then it is the work of every loyal child of God to elevate the standard and show that they are hearkening diligently to the voice of God and teaching His statutes to His children.12LtMs, Ms 34, 1897, par. 44
And this sacrifice was to evidence to man the sacred claims of the law of God. Yet men will venture to plead custom and tradition, and teach by precept and example that men may break the Sabbath be engaging in their own business, covering their transgression by, “It is lawful to do well on the Sabbath day.” [Matthew 12:12.] Thus while professing to believe the Sabbath, both by precept and example, you teach men to break it. My brethren, you have a work to do for yourselves. Your hearts are not converted. You are not in harmony with Christ. You have erected a standard of your own, and have felt it strange that you could not be left alone to follow your own mind.Matthew 12:14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 140, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 140, 1903, par. 49
When the Pharisees saw what He had done, they “went out, and held a council against Him, how they might destroy Him.” [Matthew 12:14.] What was Christ doing while they were thus engaged? He was healing the multitudes that followed Him—doing genuine medical missionary work.Matthew 12:15
That I May Know Him
Bearer of Our Afflictions, February 11
TMK 48.4
And in all this conflict with the power of evil there was ever before Christ the darkened shadow into which He Himself must enter. Ever before Him was the means by which He must pay the ransom for these souls.... When He raised Lazarus from the dead He knew that for that life He must pay the ransom on the cross of Calvary. Every rescue made was to cause Him the deepest humiliation. He was to taste death for every man.... Of the suffering multitudes brought to Christ it is said, “He healed them all” (Matthew 12:15). Thus He expressed His love for the children of men. His miracles were part of His mission.... He knows how to speak the word “Be whole,” and when He has healed the sufferer He says, “Go and sin no more.” 15Manuscript 18, 1898.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 18, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 18, 1898, par. 11
John pointing to Christ said, “Behold the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Of the suffering multitudes brought to Christ it is said, “He healed them all.” [Matthew 12:15.] Thus He expressed His love for the children of men. His miracles were part of His mission. He worked a miracle to provide bread for five thousand people, beside women and children. He freed those who were possessed and tormented by demon powers.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 21, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 21, 1900, par. 19
In all the afflictions of humanity He was afflicted. He saw the work of Satan revealed in all their woe, and He made every cause of sorrow His own. With a power that never quailed, He cast out the evil spirits that possessed both mind and body. The power of love was in all His healing, and of the suffering multitudes that were brought to Him it was said, “He healed them all.” [Matthew 12:15.]Matthew 12:15-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 316, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 316, 1908, par. 2
We read of the experience of Christ that at one time when the Pharisees held a council together, how they might destroy Him, Jesus “withdrew Himself from thence: and great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all; and charged them that they should not make Him known: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Behold My Servant, whom I have chosen; My Beloved, in whom My soul is well pleased: I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He shall show judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear His voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall He not break, and smoking flax shall He not quench, till He send forth judgment unto victory. And in His name shall the Gentiles trust.” [Matthew 12:15-21.]Matthew 12:18-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 7, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 26
You may rise to the heights to which the Holy Spirit calls you. True religion means living the Word in your practical life. Your profession is not of any value without the practical doing of the Word. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] This is the condition of discipleship. “Behold my servant whom I have chosen: my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall show judgment unto the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.” [Matthew 12:18-21.]13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 27
Thank God that a work is being done outside of the church. The church has not been properly educated to work outside [of] their own people. Many souls out of the church might have been enlightened, and a great deal more light brought into the church, if every church member in every country, who claims to have the advanced light of truth, had worked with heart, and soul, and voice to win souls to the truth. Altogether too little work is being done by church members for those who need the light, whose who are outside the church of Seventh-day Adventists. The Lord declares, “A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.” [Verses 20, 21.] Those who co-operate with Jesus Christ will realize that all these promises are fulfilled in their own experience. The Lord has pointed out the duty of every soul. In the judgment no one will have any excuse to present for not doing his duty.Matthew 12:19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 227, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 227, 1905, par. 9
Of Christ it is said, “He shall not strive nor cry, nor cause His voice to be heard in the streets.” [Matthew 12:19; Isaiah 42:2.] He did not proclaim His own merits or enter into controversy or strife. His wise, gracious words and His deeds of mercy revealed a power far above the power of the priests and rulers. His Godlike character made Him the observed of all observers. He could not be hid. A wonderful power was working in the midst of the people, a power that spoke to their hearts and minds.Matthew 12:20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 25, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 25, 1888, par. 6
Elder Haskell, will you look away from your own merits? Will you trust the merits and righteousness of Christ? Will you look to Him and trust in Him as a loving and mighty Savior? Will you believe just now? Will you fall all broken upon Jesus and say, He saveth me? I am wholly without reserve the Lord’s? Oh, look and live! The Lord has blessings for you. He will help you. “A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till He send forth judgment unto victory.” [Matthew 12:20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 18a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 18a, 1893, par. 4
Lift up Jesus as a compassionate, sin pardoning Saviour. Revive the hearts of the people that they may have increased hope and faith, and never carry the least tinge of discouragement. Let words of kindness be upon your lips; fan the least spark of hope: “The bruised reed shall he not break, nor the smoking flax shall he not quench till he send forth judgment unto victory.” [Matthew 12:20.] Keep your eyes uplifted. Remember that you are not to bear the sins of men, for you have not been made a sin-bearer. Jesus only is able to bear the sins of men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98b, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98b, 1896, par. 10
“Not by works of righteousness, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour.” [Titus 3:5, 6.] Christ was stricken of God and afflicted on our behalf. “In all things it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of His people.” “For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:17, 18.] Poor, tried, suffering soul, Jesus loves you. “A bruised reed shall He not break, and smoking flax shall He not quench.” [Matthew 12:20.] He died on Calvary’s cross for you. His sacrifice is all-sufficient and you may be complete in Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 63, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 63, 1899, par. 8
The new commandment of love was given in behalf of the weak, the wretched, the helpless. To the heart of Christ the very presence of trouble was a call for help. The poor, the sick, the desolate, the outcasts, the discouraged, the desponding, found in Him a compassionate Saviour, a mighty Healer. “The broken reed will I not break, the smoking flax will I not quench, until I send forth judgment unto victory.” [See Matthew 12:20.] Christ identifies His interests with those of suffering humanity, and He tells us that whatever we do to relieve a sufferer, we do for Him.Matthew 12:20-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 99, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 99, 1894, par. 10
“A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory and in his name shall the gentiles trust.” [Matthew 12:20, 21.] The entire life of Christ was in fulfillment of inspired prophecy. His lowly life had been predicted by Isaiah, and every step in the history of Jesus revealed the accuracy of the inspired Word. Christ was ever touched with human woe and was ready to relieve those who were suffering and in need. How truly Jesus could say to the multitude, “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Christ chose solitude rather than the praise and honor of men. Meek and lowly Lamb of God, we would learn of Thee, that we may reflect in deeper lines thine own image, and represent thy work of love, compassion, and grace.Matthew 12:21
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 53—The Last Journey From Galilee
DA 488.6
The Saviour’s own visit to Samaria, and later, the commendation of the good Samaritan, and the grateful joy of that leper, a Samaritan, who alone of the ten returned to give thanks to Christ, were full of significance to the disciples. The lesson sank deep into their hearts. In His commission to them, just before His ascension, Jesus mentioned Samaria with Jerusalem and Judea as the places where they were first to preach the gospel. This commission His teaching had prepared them to fulfill. When in their Master’s name they went to Samaria, they found the people ready to receive them. The Samaritans had heard of Christ’s words of commendation and His works of mercy for men of their nation. They saw that, notwithstanding their rude treatment of Him, He had only thoughts of love toward them, and their hearts were won. After His ascension they welcomed the Saviour’s messengers, and the disciples gathered a precious harvest from among those who had once been their bitterest enemies. “A bruised reed shall He not break, and the dimly burning flax shall He not quench: He shall bring forth judgment unto truth.” “And in His name shall the Gentiles trust.” Isaiah 42:3, margin; Matthew 12:21.Matthew 12:21-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 37a, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, par. 11
(Matthew 12:21-30), quoted.Matthew 12:22
The Great Controversy
Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits
GC 515.2
Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syrophoenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by His word. (Mark 7:26-30). “One possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb” (Matthew 12:22); a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him” (Mark 9:17-27); the maniac who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil” (Luke 4:33-36), disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum—all were healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding His mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power He commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” Luke 4:36.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits
GC88 515.2
Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syro-Phenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by his word. [Mark 7:26-30.] One “possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb,” [Matthew 12:22.] a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him,” [Mark 9:17-27.] the maniac, who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil,” [Luke 4:33-36.] disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum, were all healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding his mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.” [Luke 4:33-36.]The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 26—Agency of Evil Spirits
4SP 334.1
Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syrophenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by his word. [Mark 7:26-30.] One “possessed with a devil, blind and dumb,” [Matthew 12:22.] a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes “cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him,” [Mark 9:17-27.] the maniac, who, tormented by “a spirit of an unclean devil,” [Luke 4:33-36.] disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum, were all healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding his mighty power, “were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.”Matthew 12:22-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 87, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 87, 1901, par. 12
God’s elect must ever show their colors. There is no middle ground in the service of Christ. We read of Christ, “Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb; and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this the son of David? But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils. And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself can not stand. And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or [else] how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house. He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:22-30.]Matthew 12:22-37
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 73, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 1
“A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:35-37.]12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 8
“Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind and dumb, and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.” [Matthew 12:22.] Christ carried on His work among the needy and suffering. These judged Him by His works. When the blind and dumb man was healed, the people were amazed, and they expressed their conviction when they said, “Is not this the Son of David?” meaning, Is not this the Messiah? [Verse 23.]12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 9
The gracious works they had witnessed were to them a convincing evidence that He who performed them had the power of God, and they had no thought of attributing them to any other agency. Hence the inquiry, “Is not this the Son of David?” But when the Pharisees heard it, they said contemptuously, “This fellow doth not cast out devils but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils.” [Verses 23, 24.] These words were inspired by Satan. The enmity and prejudice of the rulers was stirred into a fury of madness; and priests and rulers, Pharisees and Sadducees, united in pouring forth their hatred. From the treasure house of their hard, stubborn hearts came the words, “This fellow doth not cast out devils but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils.”12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 12
“And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom, divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand; and if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? And then he will spoil his house. He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:25-30.]12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 13
“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men, but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it will not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. Either make the tree good, and his fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.” [Verses 31-33.] In Christ’s works the Pharisees were given sufficient evidence of His mission, but they rejected this evidence.12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 14
“O generation of vipers, now can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” [Verse 34.] By their words the Pharisees and Sadducees were exerting a deadly influence upon the people, who looked upon them as wise and good men. They were false teachers, poisoning the religious principles of the people by their deception, and teaching for doctrines the precepts and commandments of men. The Pharisees especially were stirred by a power from beneath, and they strove earnestly to exalt their manufactured precepts, their traditions and man-made commandments, above the law of God.12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 15
As for you, Christ said, your words reveal the malignity of your hearts. “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Verses 35-37.] Your words are an index of your character, and they will testify against you.Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1100—Warnings Against Worldliness, Rejecting Light, and Unconverted Leaders; An Appeal to Exalt Christ and Proclaim the Message of Righteousness by Faith
14MR 116.2
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellowmen. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of workers one to another, but the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to the Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. (See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37.) Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside and ventured on in the same course.Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers
Result of Separation from God
TM 78.2
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellowmen. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of the workers to one another, but in the desire shown by one institution to control all others. [See Appendix.] Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to His Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. (See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37.) Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside and ventured on in the same course.Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church
Result of Separation from God
PH154 21.2
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellow men. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of the workers to one another, but in the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to his Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. (See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37.) Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside, and ventured on in the same course.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Warnings Against Worldliness, Rejecting Light, and Unconverted Leaders; An Appeal to Exalt Christ and Proclaim the Message of Righteousness by Faith
1888 1324.2
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellowmen. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of workers one to another, but the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to the Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. (See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37.) Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside and ventured on in the same course.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 57, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 57, 1895, par. 8
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellow men. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of the workers to one another, but in the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to the Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37. Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside and ventured on in the same course.10LtMs, Lt 57, 1895, par. 42
I call upon God’s people to open their eyes. When you sanction or carry out the decisions of men who, as you know, are not in harmony with truth and righteousness, you weaken your own faith and lose your relish for communion with God. You seem to hear the voice which was addressed to Joshua: “Wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them. ... There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel.” “Neither will I be with you any more, unless ye destroy the accursed from among you.” [Joshua 7:10-13.] Christ declares, “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Matthew 12:22-50
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 33—Who Are My Brethren?
DA 321.1
The sons of Joseph were far from being in sympathy with Jesus in His work. The reports that reached them in regard to His life and labors filled them with astonishment and dismay. They heard that He devoted entire nights to prayer, that through the day He was thronged by great companies of people, and did not give Himself time so much as to eat. His friends felt that He was wearing Himself out by His incessant labor; they were unable to account for His attitude toward the Pharisees, and there were some who feared that His reason was becoming unsettled.DA 321.2
His brothers heard of this, and also of the charge brought by the Pharisees that He cast out devils through the power of Satan. They felt keenly the reproach that came upon them through their relation to Jesus. They knew what a tumult His words and works created, and were not only alarmed at His bold statements, but indignant at His denunciation of the scribes and Pharisees. They decided that He must be persuaded or constrained to cease this manner of labor, and they induced Mary to unite with them, thinking that through His love for her they might prevail upon Him to be more prudent.DA 321.3
It was just before this that Jesus had a second time performed the miracle of healing a man possessed, blind and dumb, and the Pharisees had reiterated the charge, “He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.” Matthew 9:34. Christ told them plainly that in attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan, they were cutting themselves off from the fountain of blessing. Those who had spoken against Jesus Himself, not discerning His divine character, might receive forgiveness; for through the Holy Spirit they might be brought to see their error and repent. Whatever the sin, if the soul repents and believes, the guilt is washed away in the blood of Christ; but he who rejects the work of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance and faith cannot come to him. It is by the Spirit that God works upon the heart; when men willfully reject the Spirit, and declare It to be from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with them. When the Spirit is finally rejected, there is no more that God can do for the soul.DA 322.1
The Pharisees to whom Jesus spoke this warning did not themselves believe the charge they brought against Him. There was not one of those dignitaries but had felt drawn toward the Saviour. They had heard the Spirit’s voice in their own hearts declaring Him to be the Anointed of Israel, and urging them to confess themselves His disciples. In the light of His presence they had realized their unholiness, and had longed for a righteousness which they could not create. But after their rejection of Him it would be too humiliating to receive Him as the Messiah. Having set their feet in the path of unbelief, they were too proud to confess their error. And in order to avoid acknowledging the truth, they tried with desperate violence to dispute the Saviour’s teaching. The evidence of His power and mercy exasperated them. They could not prevent the Saviour from working miracles, they could not silence His teaching; but they did everything in their power to misrepresent Him and to falsify His words. Still the convicting Spirit of God followed them, and they had to build up many barriers in order to withstand its power. The mightiest agency that can be brought to bear upon the human heart was striving with them, but they would not yield.DA 322.2
It is not God that blinds the eyes of men or hardens their hearts. He sends them light to correct their errors, and to lead them in safe paths; it is by the rejection of this light that the eyes are blinded and the heart hardened. Often the process is gradual, and almost imperceptible. Light comes to the soul through God’s word, through His servants, or by the direct agency of His Spirit; but when one ray of light is disregarded, there is a partial benumbing of the spiritual perceptions, and the second revealing of light is less clearly discerned. So the darkness increases, until it is night in the soul. Thus it had been with these Jewish leaders. They were convinced that a divine power attended Christ, but in order to resist the truth, they attributed the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan. In doing this they deliberately chose deception; they yielded themselves to Satan, and henceforth they were controlled by his power.DA 323.1
Closely connected with Christ’s warning in regard to the sin against the Holy Spirit is a warning against idle and evil words. The words are an indication of that which is in the heart. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” But the words are more than an indication of character; they have power to react on the character. Men are influenced by their own words. Often under a momentary impulse, prompted by Satan, they give utterance to jealousy or evil surmising, expressing that which they do not really believe; but the expression reacts on the thoughts. They are deceived by their words, and come to believe that true which was spoken at Satan’s instigation. Having once expressed an opinion or decision, they are often too proud to retract it, and try to prove themselves in the right, until they come to believe that they are. It is dangerous to utter a word of doubt, dangerous to question and criticize divine light. The habit of careless and irreverent criticism reacts upon the character, in fostering irreverence and unbelief. Many a man indulging this habit has gone on unconscious of danger, until he was ready to criticize and reject the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”DA 323.2
Then He added a warning to those who had been impressed by His words, who had heard Him gladly, but who had not surrendered themselves for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. It is not only by resistance but by neglect that the soul is destroyed. “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man,” said Jesus, “he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there.”DA 323.3
There were many in Christ’s day, as there are today, over whom the control of Satan for the time seemed broken; through the grace of God they were set free from the evil spirits that had held dominion over the soul. They rejoiced in the love of God; but, like the stony-ground hearers of the parable, they did not abide in His love. They did not surrender themselves to God daily, that Christ might dwell in the heart; and when the evil spirit returned, with “seven other spirits more wicked than himself,” they were wholly dominated by the power of evil.DA 324.1
When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. It is a supernatural work, bringing a supernatural element into human nature. The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan. But unless we do yield ourselves to the control of Christ, we shall be dominated by the wicked one. We must inevitably be under the control of the one or the other of the two great powers that are contending for the supremacy of the world. It is not necessary for us deliberately to choose the service of the kingdom of darkness in order to come under its dominion. We have only to neglect to ally ourselves with the kingdom of light. If we do not co-operate with the heavenly agencies, Satan will take possession of the heart, and will make it his abiding place. The only defense against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we can never resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. We may leave off many bad habits, for the time we may part company with Satan; but without a vital connection with God, through the surrender of ourselves to Him moment by moment, we shall be overcome. Without a personal acquaintance with Christ, and a continual communion, we are at the mercy of the enemy, and shall do his bidding in the end.DA 324.2
“The last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so,” said Jesus, “shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” There are none so hardened as those who have slighted the invitation of mercy, and done despite to the Spirit of grace. The most common manifestation of the sin against the Holy Spirit is in persistently slighting Heaven’s invitation to repent. Every step in the rejection of Christ is a step toward the rejection of salvation, and toward the sin against the Holy Spirit.DA 324.3
In rejecting Christ the Jewish people committed the unpardonable sin; and by refusing the invitation of mercy, we may commit the same error. We offer insult to the Prince of life, and put Him to shame before the synagogue of Satan and before the heavenly universe when we refuse to listen to His delegated messengers, and instead listen to the agents of Satan, who would draw the soul away from Christ. So long as one does this, he can find no hope or pardon, and he will finally lose all desire to be reconciled to God.DA 325.1
While Jesus was still teaching the people, His disciples brought the message that His mother and His brothers were without, and desired to see Him. He knew what was in their hearts, and “He answered and said unto him that told Him, Who is My mother? and who are My brethren? And He stretched forth His hand toward 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.”DA 325.2
All who would receive Christ by faith were united to Him by a tie closer than that of human kinship. They would become one with Him, as He was one with the Father. As a believer and doer of His words, His mother was more nearly and savingly related to Him than through her natural relationship. His brothers would receive no benefit from their connection with Him unless they accepted Him as their personal Saviour.DA 325.3
What a support Christ would have found in His earthly relatives if they had believed in Him as one from heaven, and had co-operated with Him in doing the work of God! Their unbelief cast a shadow over the earthly life of Jesus. It was a part of the bitterness of that cup of woe which He drained for us.DA 326.1
The enmity kindled in the human heart against the gospel was keenly felt by the Son of God, and it was most painful to Him in His home; for His own heart was full of kindness and love, and He appreciated tender regard in the family relation. His brothers desired that He should concede to their ideas, when such a course would have been utterly out of harmony with His divine mission. They looked upon Him as in need of their counsel. They judged Him from their human point of view, and thought that if He would speak only such things as would be acceptable to the scribes and Pharisees, He would avoid the disagreeable controversy that His words aroused. They thought that He was beside Himself in claiming divine authority, and in placing Himself before the rabbis as a reprover of their sins. They knew that the Pharisees were seeking occasion to accuse Him, and they felt that He had given them sufficient occasion.DA 326.2
With their short measuring line they could not fathom the mission which He came to fulfill, and therefore could not sympathize with Him in His trials. Their coarse, unappreciative words showed that they had no true perception of His character, and did not discern that the divine blended with the human. They often saw Him full of grief; but instead of comforting Him, their spirit and words only wounded His heart. His sensitive nature was tortured, His motives were misunderstood, His work was uncomprehended.DA 326.3
His brothers often brought forward the philosophy of the Pharisees, which was threadbare and hoary with age, and presumed to think that they could teach Him who understood all truth, and comprehended all mysteries. They freely condemned that which they could not understand. Their reproaches probed Him to the quick, and His soul was wearied and distressed. They avowed faith in God, and thought they were vindicating God, when God was with them in the flesh, and they knew Him not.DA 326.4
These things made His path a thorny one to travel. So pained was Christ by the misapprehension in His own home that it was a relief to Him to go where it did not exist. There was one home that He loved to visit,—the home of Lazarus, and Mary, and Martha; for in the atmosphere of faith and love His spirit had rest. Yet there were none on earth who could comprehend His divine mission, or know the burden which He bore in behalf of humanity. Often He could find relief only in being alone, and communing with His heavenly Father.DA 327.1
Those who are called to suffer for Christ’s sake, who have to endure misapprehension and distrust, even in their own home, may find comfort in the thought that Jesus has endured the same. He is moved with compassion for them. He bids them find companionship in Him, and relief where He found it, in communion with the Father.DA 327.2
Those who accept Christ as their personal Saviour are not left as orphans, to bear the trials of life alone. He receives them as members of the heavenly family; He bids them call His Father their Father. They are His “little ones,” dear to the heart of God, bound to Him by the most tender and abiding ties. He has toward them an exceeding tenderness, as far surpassing what our father or mother has felt toward us in our helplessness as the divine is above the human.DA 327.3
Of Christ’s relation to His people, there is a beautiful illustration in the laws given to Israel. When through poverty a Hebrew had been forced to part with his patrimony, and to sell himself as a bondservant, the duty of redeeming him and his inheritance fell to the one who was nearest of kin. See Leviticus 25:25, 47-49; Ruth 2:20. So the work of redeeming us and our inheritance, lost through sin, fell upon Him who is “near of kin” unto us. It was to redeem us that He became our kinsman. Closer than father, mother, brother, friend, or lover is the Lord our Saviour. “Fear not,” He says, “for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine.” “Since thou wast precious in My sight, thou hast been honorable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.” Isaiah 43:1, 4.DA 327.4
Christ loves the heavenly beings that surround His throne; but what shall account for the great love wherewith He has loved us? We cannot understand it, but we can know it true in our own experience. And if we do hold the relation of kinship to Him, with what tenderness should we regard those who are brethren and sisters of our Lord! Should we not be quick to recognize the claims of our divine relationship? Adopted into the family of God, should we not honor our Father and our kindred?From Heaven With Love
Chapter 33—How Jesus Related to Family Problems
HLv 213.1
The sons of Joseph were far from being in sympathy with Jesus in His work. The reports in regard to His life and labors filled them with dismay. They heard that He devoted entire nights to prayer, that through the day He was thronged by people, and did not even take time to eat. His friends felt He was wearing Himself out; they were unable to account for His attitude toward the Pharisees; and some feared that His reason was becoming unsettled.HLv 213.2
His brothers felt keenly the reproach that came upon them through their relation to Jesus. They were indignant at His denunciation of the Pharisees. He must be persuaded to cease this manner of labor, and they induced Mary to unite with them, thinking that through His love for her they might prevail on Him to be more prudent.HLv 213.3
The Pharisees had reiterated the charge, “He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.” Matthew 9:34. Christ told them that those who spoke against Himself, not discerning His divine character, might receive forgiveness; through the Holy Spirit they might see their error and repent. But he who rejects the work of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance cannot come to him. When men willfully reject the Spirit, and declare it to be from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with them.HLv 213.4
The Pharisees did not themselves believe the charge they brought against Jesus. Those dignitaries had heard the Spirit’s voice in their own hearts declaring Him to be the Anointed of Israel. In His presence they had realized their unholiness and longed for righteousness. But after rejecting Him, it would be too humiliating to receive Him as the Messiah. To avoid acknowledging truth, they tried to dispute the Saviour’s teaching. They could not prevent Him from working miracles, but they did everything in their power to misrepresent Him. Still the convicting Spirit of God followed them, and they had to build up barriers to withstand the mightiest agency that can be brought to bear upon the human heart.HLv 214.1
God does not blind the eyes of men or harden their hearts. He sends them light to correct their errors; by rejection of this light the eyes are blinded and the heart hardened. Often the process is almost imperceptible. But when one ray of light is disregarded, there is a partial benumbing of spiritual perceptions, and the second revealing of light is less clearly discerned. So the darkness increases, until it is night in the soul. Thus it had been with these Jewish leaders. They attributed the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan. In doing this they deliberately chose deception, and henceforth were controlled by Satan’s power.HLv 214.2
Closely connected with Christ’s warning in regard to the sin against the Holy Spirit is a warning against idle and evil words. Words are an indication of character. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” Words also have power to react on the character. Men are influenced by their own words. Often under a momentary prompting by Satan, they give utterance to that which they do not really believe; but the expression reacts on the thoughts, and they come to believe what was spoken at Satan’s instigation. Having once expressed an opinion or decision, often they are too proud to retract it. They try to prove themselves right, until they believe they are.HLv 214.3
It is dangerous to utter a word of doubt, dangerous to question and criticize light. Careless and irreverent criticism reacts upon the character, fostering irreverence and unbelief. Many a man has gone on until he was ready to criticize and reject the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”HLv 215.1
Then Jesus added a warning to those who had been impressed by His words, but had not surrendered themselves for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, I will return unto my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there.”HLv 215.2
Many in Christ’s day, as today, through the grace of God were set free from evil spirits that held dominion over the soul. They rejoiced in the love of God but did not surrender themselves to God daily, that Christ might dwell in the heart; and when the evil spirit returned, with “seven other spirits more wicked than himself,” they were wholly dominated by the power of evil.HLv 215.3
When the soul surrenders to Christ, a new power takes possession of the heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself. The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which he holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept by heavenly agencies is impregnable to the assaults of Satan.HLv 215.4
But unless we yield ourselves to the control of Christ, we shall be dominated by the wicked one. It is not necessary deliberately to choose the kingdom of darkness in order to come under its dominion. We have only to neglect to ally ourselves with the kingdom of light. If we do not cooperate with heavenly agencies, Satan will make the heart his abiding place. The only defense against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness. Unless vitally connected with God, we can never resist self-love and temptation to sin. We may for a time leave off bad habits, but without moment by moment surrender to Christ and a continual communion, we are at the mercy of the enemy, and shall do his bidding in the end.HLv 216.1
“The last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” There are none so hardened as those who have slighted the invitations of mercy. The most common manifestation of the sin against the Holy Spirit is in persistently slighting Heaven’s invitation to repent.HLv 216.2
In rejecting Christ the Jewish people committed the unpardonable sin; and by refusing the invitation of mercy, we may commit the same error. We put the Prince of life to shame before Satan and before the heavenly universe when we refuse to listen to His delegated messengers, and instead listen to agents who would draw the soul away from Christ. So long as one does this, he can find no pardon, and will finally lose all desire to be reconciled to God.HLv 216.3
While Jesus was still teaching the people, His disciples brought the message that His mother and brothers were outside and desired to see Him. “But He replied to the man who told Him, ‘Who is My mother, and who are My brothers?’ and stretching out His hand toward His disciples, He said, ‘Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother, and sister, and mother.’” RSV.HLv 216.4
All who receive Christ by faith are united to Him by a tie closer than human kinship. As a believer and doer of His words, His mother was more nearly and savingly related to Him than through her natural relationship. His brothers would receive no benefit from their connection with Him unless they accepted Him as their personal Saviour.HLv 217.1
Their unbelief was a part of the bitterness of that cup of woe which He drained for us.HLv 217.2
The enmity kindled in the human heart against the gospel was most painful to Jesus in His home. His brothers looked on Him as in need of their counsel. They thought that if He would speak things acceptable to the Pharisees, He would avoid disagreeable controversy. They thought He was beside Himself in claiming divine authority. They knew that the Pharisees were seeking occasion to accuse Him, and they felt He had given them sufficient occasion.HLv 217.3
They could not fathom the mission He came to fulfill, and therefore could not sympathize with Him in His trials. Their coarse, unappreciative words showed that they had no true perception of His character. Instead of comforting Him, their spirit and words wounded His heart. His sensitive nature was tortured, His motives misunderstood, His work uncomprehended.HLv 217.4
His brothers often presumed to think that they could teach Him who understood all truth. They freely condemned that which they could not understand. They thought they were vindicating God, when God was with them in the flesh, and they knew Him not.HLv 217.5
These things made Jesus’ path thorny. So pained was Christ by the misapprehension in His own home that it was a relief to go where it did not exist. He loved to visit the home of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, for in the atmosphere of faith and love His spirit had rest. Yet often He could find relief only in being alone and communing with His Father.HLv 217.6
Those who are called to endure misapprehension and distrust for Christ’s sake in their own homes may find comfort in the thought that Jesus endured the same. He bids them find companionship in Him and relief in communion with the Father.HLv 218.1
Those who accept Christ are not left as orphans, to bear trials alone. As members of the heavenly family, He bids them call His Father their Father. He has toward them an exceeding tenderness, far surpassing what our father or mother felt toward us in our helplessness.HLv 218.2
When through poverty a Hebrew had been forced to sell himself as a bondservant, the duty of redeeming him fell to the one nearest of kin. See Leviticus 25:25, 47-49; Ruth 2:20. So the work of redeeming us fell on Him who is “near of kin” to us. Christ became our kinsman. Closer than father, mother, brother, friend, or lover is the Lord our Saviour. We cannot understand this love, but we can know it to be true in our own experience.Matthew 12:24
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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 22, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 22, 1885, par. 9
They are acting over the course which was pursued by the chief priests and scribes and rulers in the days of Christ. They have set their feet in the path of stubborn resistance to the truth as did the Jews in Christ’s day. Human nature is controlled by the powers of darkness; Satan pursued that course in the days of Christ. Nothing that Christ could do or did do removed the prejudice of those who did not want to believe. When He wrought miracles in their midst, they would not believe. The chief priests and rulers were constantly educating and training the people to reject Christ by their falsehoods, their misstatements of His work, their misrepresentation of His doctrines, so that when these miracles were wrought before them, the teachers had a device ready for the occasion. This fellow hath “Beelzebub,” and it is only by the power of the devils He casteth out devils. [Matthew 12:24.] On a similar charge against Him in Jerusalem, the words came from the lips of those who witnessed this good work, These are not the words of Him that hath a devil. [John 10:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 55, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 55, 1890, par. 4
The miracles Christ performed were the manifestation of divine power to testify to the authority of the work and mission of Christ. This was something in God’s arrangement to sweep away their prejudice and inspire faith. Did it do this? No. They had entrenched themselves in impregnable walls, forming a confederacy that they would not yield. The appeals made for them to believe, and the exhortations to repentance, were met with, “Show us a miracle.” [Matthew 16:1.] When Christ and the apostles presented convincing arguments of truth, the Jews would not hear; they would not receive the truth. They clamored for signs and miracles. This was not that they might obtain clearer views of the truth, but to divert the minds of the hearers from the clearest evidences of truth which had been presented. The Saviour had performed many miracles before them, but these were no longer the medium of convincing them of truth. If they could not turn the minds of the hearers away [by other means] they would say, “He works these remarkable signs through Beelzebub, the prince of devils.” [Matthew 12:24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 9, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 9, 1895, par. 9
We can but recall the times when Christ was upon the earth, when the priests and Pharisees declared, “He hath a devil,” and when the wonderful miracles wrought by Jesus Christ were charged to Beelzebub, the prince of devils. [John 10:20; Matthew 12:24.] This same spirit is manifested in 1895 where the truth is presented. The Holy Spirit is today moving upon the consciences of men, shining into the chambers of the mind and heart, speaking strength to the servants of God warnings and invitations. The Holy Spirit accompanies the believers by the way, impressing their hearts and comforting the souls of those that decide to obey the truth. This makes the words spoken efficient.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 34, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 9
Christ’s enemies could find no charge against Him. Therefore they wrapped up their accusations in one great charge, which is recorded against them in the books of heaven, “He casteth out devils by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils.” [Matthew 12:24.] Bigotry and hatred lead men to carry things to great lengths. Men maddened into fury, because they can prove nothing against the ones they hate, will bring against them charges which do not contain a shadow of truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 129, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 129, 1903, par. 15
Christ’s miracles were wrought in such a way that it could plainly be seen that they were the result of the working of a supernatural power. They were the seal that God placed on the commission given to His Son. Not by nature, but by the God of nature, were these miracles wrought. The testimonies borne by them to the divinity of Christ’s mission could not be controverted. But the Pharisees, determined not to yield to evidence, said, “This fellow doth not cast out devils but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils.” [Matthew 12:24.] They would give Satan the glory that belonged to Christ. God gave them every opportunity to believe in Christ as the Messiah, but so long had they walked contrary to God that their hearts were not susceptible to His touch. They closed the door of the heart against the evidence that He sent, because this evidence condemned them as transgressors of His law.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 52, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 52, 1906, par. 21
I carry upon my soul the condition of things in Battle Creek. I know of the presentations that will be made in the Battle Creek papers, but what better can be expected? Just such men condemned the Prince of life. They said, “He hath a devil,” and “casteth out devils by Beelzebub, the prince of devils.” [John 10:20; Matthew 12:24.] I am in good company; Christ was reproached and spoken against. I will not turn to the right hand or to the left to save myself from the judgment of such men. We want the truth and nothing but the truth.Matthew 12:28
From the Heart
A Teacher Sent From God, June 15
FH 178.1
If I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. Matthew 12:28.Matthew 12:30
Christian Education
Chapter 17—Formality, Not Organization, An Evil
CE 135.1
Many have seemed to think that all that was essential in Sabbath-school work was to organize the school, and drill the scholars so that they would act in harmony with a set of ceremonies and forms; and that if persons could be secured as teachers, the Sabbath-school would run itself. Teachers are often secured who cannot lead souls to Christ because they know not what it is to find him precious to their own souls; but all those who do not value the soul so that they will work as Christ would have them, will scatter away from Christ. “He that [mark these words] gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] If teachers have no burden to lead souls to Jesus, they will grow indifferent to the truth; they will become careless, and the atmosphere with which they surround their souls will work to scatter away from Christ. And with such elements in the Sabbath-school, there will be a perpetual conflict with difficulties; for when the teachers engage in the work and have no interest in it, the pupils will partake of the same spirit.The Upward Look
God Is Not Nature, but Nature’s God, November 29
UL 347.3
Truth has power to make the sayings of Christ spirit and life. If cherished and respected, it will cause the man to turn from his evil ways. Truth and error cannot abide in the same heart. “He that is not with me is against me,” Christ declares, “and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad” (Matthew 12:30).This Day With God
Danger of Doublemindedness, August 19
TDG 240.2
There are many who would serve Christ provided they could serve themselves also. But this cannot be. The Lord will not accept cowards in His army. There can be no dissembling. Christ’s followers must stand ready to serve Him at all times and in every way that may be required. God will accept only true-hearted, level-headed, all-round men. “He that is not with me is against me,” Christ declared; “and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad” (Matthew 12:30).Living by Principle
The Power of Influence
PH048 7.1
Matthew 12:30: He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Love Stronger than Death
1TT 232.1
Considering at what an immense cost our salvation has been purchased, what will be the fate of those who neglect so great salvation? What will be the punishment of those who profess to be followers of Christ, yet fail to bow in humble obedience to the claims of their Redeemer, and who do not take the cross as humble disciples of Christ and follow Him from the manger to Calvary? “He that gathereth not with Me,” says Christ, “scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
A Positive Influence
1TT 240.3
You cannot serve God and mammon. You are either wholly on the Lord’s side or on the side of the enemy. “He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30. Some persons make their religious life a failure because they are always wavering and do not have determination. They are frequently convicted and come almost up to the point of surrendering all for God; but, failing to meet the point, they fall back again. While in this state the conscience is hardening and becoming less and less susceptible to the impressions of the Spirit of God. His Spirit has warned, has convicted, and has been disregarded, until it is nearly grieved away. God will not be trifled with. He shows duty clearly, and if there is a neglect to follow the light, it becomes darkness.From the Heart
Gathering or Scattering, March 27
FH 98.1
He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Matthew 12:30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 17, 1868
1LtMs, Lt 17, 1868, par. 7
You cannot serve God and mammon. You are either wholly on the Lord’s side or on the side of the enemy. “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Some persons seem never decided. They are always wavering and do not have determination. They are frequently convicted and come almost up to the point of surrendering all for God, but fail to meet the point, and fall back again. While in this state the conscience is hardening and becoming less and less susceptible of the impressions of the Spirit of God. His Spirit has warned, has convicted, and been disregarded, until it is nearly grieved away. God will not be trifled with. He shows duty clearly, and if there is a neglect to follow the light, it becomes darkness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 16, 1861
1LtMs, Lt 16, 1861, par. 14
Said the angel, “Those who do not gather with Christ scatter abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] There is no such thing as a neutral position. Every one has influence and his influence tells for or against. Individuals have stood ready to oppose every step of advance of God’s people as God in His providence has led them. And those who would venture out have their hearts saddened and distressed by the lack of union and action on the part of their ministering brethren.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 2a, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 2a, 1872, par. 18
If ye gather not with Me, says Christ, ye scatter abroad. [Matthew 12:30.] This you have been doing. Your example and influence have scattered from Christ and you have reproached the cause of Christ and greatly weakened our hands and discouraged our hearts through your wayward course. Your only hope is to face right about and be teachable, control yourself.Counsels on Health
Work With Enthusiasm and Ardor
CH 35.2
We are not to be idle spectators in the stirring scenes that will prepare the way of the Lord’s second appearing. We must catch the enthusiasm and ardor of the Christian soldier. Everyone who is not for Christ is against Him. “He that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30. Inactivity is registered in the books of heaven as opposition to Christ’s work, because it produces the same kind of fruit as positive hostility. God calls for active workers.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 26, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 26, 1879, par. 6
Said Jesus, “Ye either gather with Me or ye scatter abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Your careless inattention gives example for others to do as you do. Be kind, be cheerful—not light, vain, trifling, giddy and without serious reflection. You will be called to render an account for the good you might have done and did not do because you did not avail yourselves of the privilege of connecting with God and having His wisdom and His grace to qualify you to live an earnest Christian life, that your influence would lead others to Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 4, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 77
All the good will have a tendency to press together, and all doubting, unbelieving ones will keep each other in countenance and strengthen the very elements of character that the testimonies of God’s Spirit have reproved and urged men to overcome. We would ask every man and woman, On which side is your influence? Are you working where God is working, or are you working with the enemy? Says Christ, “He that is not with me, is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 31, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 31, 1889, par. 4
Christ is the greatest teacher that this world has ever known. Truth never languished on His lips, never suffered in His hands. “He that is not with me is against me,” He said, “and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Christ gives to every man his work. Every one is to exert an influence in the earth for the upbuilding of God’s kingdom. The work of the Spirit in the heart is to produce a profound conviction that he who is not working for Christ is working against Him. Man cannot be an unconcerned spectator in the great conflict between the Prince of life and the prince of darkness. Each one must take a position for or against the Saviour.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 30, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 30, 1890, par. 13
In Christ’s work there can be no neutrality, no middle ground. He declared, “He that is not with me, is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Jesus saw and read like an open book the motives which actuated those before Him, whose consciences pronounced them guilty. The great controversy was waxing strong. Christ was not warring against finite men, but against principalities and powers, against spiritual wickedness in high places. He tells His hearers that all manner of sin and blasphemy may be forgiven if done in ignorance. In their great blindness they might speak words of insult and derision against the Son of Man, and yet be within the boundary of mercy. But when the power and Spirit of God rested upon His messengers, they were on holy ground. To ignore the Spirit of God, to charge it with being the spirit of the devil, placed them in a position where God had no power to reach their souls. <No power in any of God’s provisions to correct the erring can reach them.>Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 21, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 21, 1890, par. 17
The Lord makes every effort to reclaim the delinquent—those who place themselves out of the rank of workers, as though they were not responsible for the salvation of their own souls or for the souls of others. But if these men continue in this position, Christ cannot become responsible for their salvation, for they hide their Lord’s talents and bind themselves to the side of the enemy. “He that is not for me,” says Christ, “is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 40, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 40, 1890, par. 4
Every time you look upon Prof. Bell you will be wounded because you have greatly injured him, and the injury reacts upon yourself. Why not humble yourself under the mighty hand of God? Why not make a thorough work and clear the King’s highway? Why not fall upon the Rock, Jesus Christ, and be broken. This passing along and not making wrongs righted is separating your soul from God and making you weak in moral power, clouding your discernment, that you have in your acts expressed more than words, your unbelief. Your position has been to counteract and make of none account my labors. You have, as it were, stood at the head of those who have done. Said Christ, “Those who gather not with me scatter abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] How could you do this? I was answered last night; you have not made the pathway behind you clear and straight, and the Lord God insists upon the removal of the obstructions. He consults your place on earth. In doing this you have mistaken phantoms for realities; unintentionally you have done a work that will stand registered against you in the judgment for you to answer: Why did you stand as a barrier to My work through the very men I saw fit to choose to do this work? Why have you been so ready to grasp and absorb influences that were obstructing the light I have ordained shall come to My church?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 74, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 74, 1892, par. 18
Well may we heed the words of Christ, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into the harvest.” [Luke 10:2.] The harvest of the world is to be gathered into sheaves for the garner. Where are the reapers? Agencies of every kind are to be set in operation. Every follower of Christ can do something. Not to do the part God requires of you in this great work is to show that Christ is not appreciated and to earn the condemnation of Christ as a wicked and slothful servant. “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Every means that the believer possesses of influence and of money is to be employed, and that to the very uttermost. Work while it is day, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Our lamps are to be kept bright and burning, and every one is to be a faithful steward of the grace of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 46, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 46, 1891, par. 11
When God sees the secret workings of an evil work, He sends reproof and warnings. If they will hear and repent, the Lord will turn away from the evil He purposed to do. If they refuse to humble their hearts, then the Lord will leave them to act out and reveal the motives which prompt to action. I have spoken to you the word of the Lord, and you refused to be corrected. You have charged upon me as the Jews charged our Saviour of casting out devils through Beelzebub, the prince of the devils. This is the way the Jewish leaders viewed the works of Christ. Can I be surprised that Satan should stir up the elements of evil to charge his servants with the same? Jesus said, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 40, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 40, 1891, par. 14
The Lord would have you cut the cords that bind you to worldlings, that you may unite with Christ and your brethren, and you will be an altogether different man in Christ Jesus. Jesus has said, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] The follower of Jesus must know what it is to have heart fellowship with his Saviour. Christ’s servants are to deny self and follow their Lord. Christ will accept no half-hearted service. We must be thorough disciples or nothing. In His work while upon earth, He sifted His disciples, and from the multitudes that followed Him, eleven men and a few faithful women were found to lay the foundation of the Christian church. It is better to have a few humble, devoted Christians who will stand faithfully at their post of duty, engaged together in the work for man’s salvation, than to have many men of brilliant talent and with great knowledge of the mechanical workings of an institution, who have no connection with the God of wisdom. Christ has said, “He that is not with me is against me.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 38, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 38, 1892, par. 13
Everyone is needed to engage with the heavenly intelligences in the work, that the will of God may be done in the earth. Many tell doleful stories of their inefficiency. O, that they would place themselves in vital connection with the God of wisdom and power, that they may become better qualified to do His sacred work. What an influence would go forth from them to the world! No one will be saved standing on neutral ground. Said Christ, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad” [Matthew 12:30], but those who confess Christ before men, Christ will confess before His Father and before His angels. “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” [Romans 10:10.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Faithfulness in Reproving Sin
GW92 85.3
Never was there greater need of faithful warnings and reproofs, and close, straight dealing, than at this very time. Satan has come down with great power, knowing that his time is short. He is flooding the world with pleasing fables, and the people of God love to have smooth things spoken to them. Sin and iniquity are not abhorred. I was shown that God’s people must make more firm, determined efforts to press back the incoming darkness. The close work of the Spirit of God is needed now as never before. Stupidity must be shaken off. We must arouse from the lethargy that will prove our destruction unless we resist it. Satan has a powerful, controlling influence upon minds. Preachers and people are in danger of being found upon the side of the powers of darkness. There is no such thing now as a neutral position. We are all decidedly for the right, or decidedly with the wrong. Christ said, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 17, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 17, 1893, par. 10
Your brother may be deeply interested in you, he may do his best to lead you, but he is only human. His finite power cannot keep you. You must be kept by the power of God earnestly sought in humble prayer and constant watchfulness thereunto. Said Christ, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Your very indecision gives Satan advantage to use you as his ally to hurt your soul, and to hurt other souls. Christ bids you, “Follow me.” Will you do this, will you give to God your undivided affections? Will you connect yourself with a power that will protect your soul from the fiercest assaults of Satan?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 49, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 49, 1893, par. 17
The Lord has greatly honored men by giving Christ as their ransom, that they might be recovered from the enemy’s snare. But are they willing to be recovered? Will they accept the precious gift, Christ Jesus, or will they refuse to do Him service <and retain their objectionable traits of character?> Christ declared, “He that gathereth not with Me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Those who try to do well in their own finite strength will fail.8LtMs, Ms 49, 1893, par. 27
He who rejects the life and character of Jesus, refusing to be like Him, declares himself to be in controversy with God. “He that is not with me is against me,” Christ declares, “and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Those who love God will not choose His enemies as their friends. The question is asked, “Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them which hate the Lord?” [2 Chronicles 19:2.] True Christians will not choose the society of non-christians.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 126, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 126, 1893, par. 3
The duties of church members are those of active responsibility. Every one at his baptism has pledged himself as a gospel worker, each according to his several ability. You are to consider you are not to remain indolent in spiritual labor. You are to improve in character, in qualification, in accordance with the Word of God. Christ says, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30. These lead others to be do-nothings in the work and cause of God. Every one whose name is on the church books is to feel he is in service, a worker together with God. He is to bind his interests up with his Master’s interest, to go to work for Christ, together with Him to exalt the salvation of God in its highest attainable sense.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 47, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 47, 1894, par. 31
As professed Christians, what are we doing? Souls all around us, close beside our homes and those afar off, are perishing in their sins, unwarned, uncared for. Every day we pass by those who are without hope and without God in the world, and never open our lips to tell them of Christ and His love. A worldly infatuation keeps men and women spellbound. We profess to have the light from heaven, precious knowledge of the truth, of God’s requirements, and yet how many of us are dumb while our fellow men are blind, deceived, perishing in their sins. Soldiers of the cross of Christ should be moving heaven with their prayers for God to work, for His power to co-operate with human agents to reach men where they are. Oh, why will not men hear the words of Christ: “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad”? [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 62, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 62, 1894, par. 16
Many of those who have filled responsible positions of trust in the Review and Herald office have failed to practice the keeping of the commandments of God. They have not been particular to keep holy the Sabbath day which God has sanctified and blessed. The very ones they could have helped, they have passed by, as the priest and the Levite passed by the wounded and bruised stranger who had been left to die by the wayside. The very ones who needed the power of the divine Healer to cure their wounds have been left uncared for and unnoticed. Many have acted as though it were enough to know that Satan had his trap all set for a soul, and they could go home, and rest, and be at ease, and care no more for the one lost sheep. In manifesting such a spirit, it is evident that we have not been partakers of the divine nature, but partakers of the attributes of the enemy of God. This is how the Lord regards it. “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Jesus said, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” [Matthew 7:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 93, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 93, 1894, par. 12
Agencies of every kind must be set in operation; every follower of Christ can do something. Not to do one’s God-given work means unfaithfulness, indifference to the claims of God; it means the ranging of one’s self against Him. Jesus said, “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Every member of the church is to be enlisted in His service. Every talent of means or of influence is to be employed. Christ asks of those who carry no burden of labor, “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” [Matthew 20:6.] Work while it is day, for the night cometh, in which no man can work. The influence of Christ multiplies itself through His human agencies. To deny self for Christ’s sake is the daily obligation of every Christian.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 26, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 26, 1894, par. 19
“Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] The sowers of the seed, and also the workers who gather in the harvest, are essential. Agencies of every kind will find ample room to work. Every true Christian can do something. To do nothing means to backslide from God and work against His interest. Jesus says, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] By their lack of diligence in working for Christ, His professed followers are ranking themselves with those who manifest positive hostility against Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 105, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 105, 1894, par. 5
The Lord is soon to come and your inquiry every day should be, how shall I subdue the spirit of worldliness which continually seeks to exert its deadly influence over my soul which has been bought with an infinite price? You should daily cultivate love for Jesus who took [upon] his own divine soul the punishment for your sins. Have you ever considered how many there are who might have had eternal life who have satisfied themselves with the things of this present life, and have lost eternity out of their reckoning. It is time for us to consider seriously our responsibility in the matter of influence in the church. On whose side are you placing your influence? Jesus who died to save you and your children, says to you, “He that is not for me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] You cannot estimate the influence you may exert over those who have not the love and fear of God and who are in the darkness of error. “Ye are not your own. For ye are brought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] You are privileged to be coworkers with Christ in saving your own souls and the souls of your children. But if you are coworkers with Christ you will teach your children that they cannot live to please their associates when this involves displeasing God. What will please God is to be first, and what will please your neighbors secondary. What your neighbors will think or say or do is not be the standard to which you are to fashion your character or mould your course. By your example you are to teach your children, who are God’s purchased heritage, that they are to regard the law of God as the rule of life, and to avoid transgression in every particular. You are responsible to God to give your neighbors an example that they may follow. By your practical obedience to all his requirements, you are to teach them to avoid all disloyalty. Your piety is to be active, earnest, sincere, and in practicing godliness you will decide your own destiny, and the destiny of your loved ones for eternal life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 30, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 30, 1895, par. 38
Without entirely sacrificing self we cannot love one another as Jesus has loved us. This is conformity to the image of Christ; but the standard of Christianity is trailing in the very dust. True religion is to follow Christ; but a religion built upon selfishness is worthless. The sinful, selfish heart can never be satisfied, for it has never been surrendered to God, and the peace of Christ cannot enter in, the Sun of Righteousness cannot shine into the chambers of the mind and illuminate the soul-temple. He who makes compromise with sin, cannot be accepted by Christ, for he that “gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] True repentance and true conversion change the entire man, and there is no complaint that the service of Christ is a hard one.Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 556—Soul Winning
8MR 95.1
As professed Christians, what are we doing? Souls all around us, close beside our homes, and those afar off, are perishing in their sins, unwarned, uncared for. Every day we pass by those who are without hope and without God in the world, and never open our lips to tell them of Christ and His love. A worldly infatuation keeps men and women spellbound. We profess to have the light from heaven, precious knowledge of the truth, of God’s requirements; and yet how many of us are dumb while our fellowmen are blind, deceived, perishing in their sins. Soldiers of the cross of Christ should be moving heaven with their prayers for God to work, for His power to cooperate with the human agent to reach men where they are. Oh, why will not men hear the words of Christ: “He that is not with Me is against me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad” (Matthew 12:30)....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 6, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 6, 1895, par. 5
If we would become Christlike, we must study Christ’s character. God has given capabilities to the human agent by which we are to co-operate with God in blessing, uplifting, strengthening, and ennobling not ourselves only, but others with whom we associate. This work of blessing we shall do by giving men an example in our own lives of the spirit, ways, and works of Christ. When self controls, it works to discourage, to dishearten, and to drive souls away from their Saviour. Christ says, “He that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 8, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 12
After a short discourse, keep fresh, that you may give a Bible reading on the points spoken of, drawing the people out by questions. Come right to the hearts of your hearers, urging them to present their difficulties to you, that you may explain the Scriptures which they do not comprehend. Throw off all appearance of apathy, and lead the people to think that there is life or death in these solemn questions, according as they shall receive or reject them. As you present testing truth, ask often, who is now willing, as they have heard the words of God, pointing out their duty, to consecrate their heart and mind to Christ Jesus. “He that is not for me, is against me.” [Matthew 12:30.] As the Lord lays out before us the stirring scenes to be enacted in the last great conflict, can we contemplate them without catching enthusiasm, ardor, and zeal, knowing that heavenly angels are by our side?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 40, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, par. 14
In His lesson Christ said, “Blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it.” [Luke 11:28.] This is the work devolving upon all. All are to hear the Word of God and keep it. If we do not do this, we are not serving God. “He that is not with me,” said Christ, “is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Christ came to our world to live the law of God in humanity, and this we can do only through the grace of Christ. What are we doing on this school ground? Are any of us here to gather to ourselves more money? Are we here to add our weight to the burden of others? Are we here to instill the poison of disaffection into the minds of new comers, to make them suspicious, to cause them to lose confidence in their brethren? This root of bitterness owes its growth to selfishness, to the depravity of the heart. “The love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” [1 Timothy 6:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 38, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, par. 2
Every soul who does not receive Christ as his personal Saviour receives, in the place of Christ, satanic agencies. He comes under the control of the great apostate. Christ has declared, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Here the principle is plainly stated. Our Redeemer understood this, and was desirous that all should be saved through faith in Him. His prayer, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John is full of instruction of the highest type. This prayer, uttered in the hearing of His disciples, was a sample of His intercession carried on in heaven, within the vail, for all who receive Him and believe on His name, even unto the ends of the earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 132, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 132, 1896, par. 14
All who are determined to do service to God cheerfully, willingly, gladly, because they are God’s property by creation and by redemption, will not miscarry in their aims or in their efforts. A sense of their obligation to God, whose they are and whom they serve, will be a strong incentive to be obedient to His requirements. All their social virtues and all their religious aims are to glorify God. They know they have influence, either for good or for evil. Every one will gather with Christ or scatter away from Christ by his personal influence. “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] The Christian knows that God seeth not as man seeth. God weigheth actions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 69a, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, par. 10
It is time you consider seriously your responsibility and influence. On whose side are you placing your influence? Jesus, who died to save you and your children, says to you, “He that is not for Me is against Me. He that gathereth not with Me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] You cannot compute the amount of influence you may exert over those who have not the love and fear of God, who are in the darkness of error. “You are not your own, you are bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] You are privileged to be coworkers with Jesus Christ to save your own souls and the souls of your children, teaching them to live not to please their associates and in thus doing displease God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 87, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 5
There are many who would serve Christ provided they could serve themselves also. But this cannot be. The Lord will not accept cowards in His army. There can be no dissembling. Christ’s followers must stand ready to serve Him at all times and in every way that may be required. God will accept only true-hearted, level-headed, all-round men. “He that is not with me, is against me,” Christ declared, “and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 25, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 25, 1897, par. 3
Many have no heart, no love, for the service of Christ. They do not choose to stand on His side. Christ declared, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] The mission of Christ was a constant work of humility. He came from the throne of God in heaven to be cradled in a manager, to follow the bloodstained path to the cross of Calvary. In His life were made manifest the principles that should govern the life of every Christian missionary worker. He is to make the truth of God known in the world. The love of Christ is to be his study.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 79, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 79, 1897, par. 15
You are under responsibility to God during every moment of your probationary time. You may ignore your responsibility; you may refuse to yoke up with Christ; you may allow Satan to put his yoke upon your neck and make you the slave of sin—for you will wear either the yoke of Christ or the yoke of Satan—but there is no getting rid of the words of Christ, “He that is not for me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]
MR No. 1186—Wrongdoing to be Condemned; Righteousness to be Exalted
16MR 14.1
In every health institution that has fallen into worldly practices, the Lord calls for a decided change. Let our workers now come out from the world, and be separate. There is to be a full understanding as to who is on the Lord’s side. “He that is not with Me,” said Christ, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad” [Matthew 12:30].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 2, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 2, 1897, par. 13
It is essential for each one to deny self, to lift the cross, and follow a self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer. But these men though they have seen the way clearly, have turned to the other side, and have done great injustice to those who are trying to do their duty, irrespective of self-serving. With shame and sorrow these men will see that covetousness is idolatry. And why should they try to cause other minds to see through their perverted vision? Why should they try to make the situation hard and trying for those who are persuaded, by the light which the Lord has been pleased to give, to come to this place against their own inclination? Why should they, because everything has not advanced in a way to advantage themselves, try to tear in pieces and discourage those who would stand at the post of duty? Of all such Christ says, “He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 74, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 74, 1897, par. 9
Could the veil have been withdrawn from before you and Brother Hardy, could you have seen what I saw, your tongues would have been silent. An angel was represented to me, writing in a book the words spoken under the influence of another spirit than that of Christ, a self-sufficient, self-deceived spirit. The words spoken, the spirit manifested, revealed the attributes of Satan. Said Christ, “He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 153, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 153, 1897, par. 4
Souls are to be gathered as sheaves to Jesus Christ; but where are the reapers? Christ has commanded, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into the harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] Not only is there a need of reapers, but of other agencies that will work in various lines according to their ability. Every kind of labor is to be devised and set in operation. Every follower of Christ is to do something in the work, and not to do what you can, is to manifest an indifference to the claims of Christ. If you refuse to be a faithful steward working under the Master, then you are following the directions of another leader, and ranging yourself with those who are warring against God. Christ said, “He that is not with me, is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] If we are not active in the service of Christ, we are ranking with those who are in positive hostility against Him, for we are in the position of stumbling blocks. Every means of influence God has given you, should be employed to the utmost.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 193, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 193, 1897, par. 10
Every individual belongs to God by creation and by redemption. If men refuse to work on Christ’s side then they are working on the side of the enemy of Christ. Jesus says in plain words, “He that is not for me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Half and half service places the human agent on the side of the enemy, as a successful ally of the hosts of darkness, and from him comes forth continually the evil works of Satan. Individually we must be either on one side or the other. All who are on the Lord’s side are co-laborers with Jesus Christ, doing the works that Christ would do were he here upon earth. They follow Jesus the light of the world. They are themselves children of the light and of the day, they are not of the night nor of darkness. They are doing their best, marching under the banner of Prince Immanuel. They will not dishonor God, they will not prove traitors to their Captain. They will not act upon the suggestions of the rebel captain, and while professing to be on the Lord’s side, daily take their commands from the chief of rebels by betraying sacred trust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 36, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 36, 1898, par. 10
There are those who have fear of opposition and failure. This is because they look at the things that are seen and not at the things that are unseen. Who is willing to consecrate his service to God at this very time? Our warfare is aggressive. Stirring scenes are before us. We must catch the ardor of Christ. We must cherish his meekness and lowliness. Mark Christ’s words, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 44, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 44, 1899, par. 2
God does not call upon you, my brother, to wait for a special movement upon your mind, for you are well acquainted with the evidences of truth. Why have you not taken your position on the platform of truth? “He that knoweth his Master’s will, and doeth it not, shall be beaten with many stripes.” [Luke 12:47.] The Spirit of God is calling you in every discourse you hear. You did not at first comply with the invitation, and it is becoming habit for you to neglect every call of the Spirit. This morning I am drawn out to ask you to give yourself to the Lord. Surrender your will and mind to God. You have thought that because you have been non-committal you have not opposed the truth. Hear the words of Christ to you: “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] This is how the Lord regards your position.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 15, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 15, 1899, par. 11
A special invitation is now given you to come to the Lord Jesus Christ. At times you have been convicted, but you have neglected to listen to the invitation of the Holy Spirit, and whereas you should now be fully on the Lord’s side, loyal and true to your heavenly Father, you are as the prodigal son. Daniel Wessels, are you in any way responding to the love God expressed for you when He gave His only begotten Son that you might have eternal life? But eternal life is granted only on condition of obedience. It means much to you, my dear friend, whether you stand under the black banner of rebellion, or under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Christ has said, “He that is not for me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 109, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 109, 1899, par. 9
Peter Wessels has taken hold of worldly business. He placed his means where it would not be used for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God in our world. As he engaged in this enterprise, he mingled more and more with the world in associations. He will catch the spirit of the world and lose his hold on God. His love for Jesus and the truth is not increasing. Christ declares, “He that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 39, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 39, 1899, par. 9
The principles of entire consecration must be maintained. Christ Himself has said, “Ye can not serve God and mammon.” “He that is not for me, (voicing my words,) is against me.” [Matthew 6:24; 12:30.] God will have no men in His work who offer divided service. His servants are to take the position that they will not sanction any evil work. To follow Jesus requires wholehearted conversion at the start, and a repetition of this conversion every day.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 936—Ellen White and the Kellogg Crisis
12MR 60.2
Need to Look to the Cross—We are in this world to lift the cross of Calvary. As we lift this cross, we shall find that it lifts us. Let every Christian stand in his lot and place, catching the inspiration of the work that Christ did for souls while in this world. We need the ardor of the Christian hero, who can endure the seeing of Him that is invisible. Our faith is to have a resurrection. The soldiers of the cross are to exert a positive influence for good. Christ says, “He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad” (Matthew 12:30). Indifference in the Christian life is a manifest denial of Christ.—Letter 239, 1903, pp. 8, 9. (To Dr. J. H. Kellogg, October 28, 1903.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 156, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 156, 1901, par. 22
God’s elect must ever show their colors. In His service there is no middle ground. Christ declares, “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 140, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 140, 1901, par. 20
There is a great tendency to backslide from God, to refuse to walk in the way of His commandments. Christ declares, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] The greater the need of the efforts which God has declared should be made by men in responsible places in behalf of souls, the more guilty will He hold those who do not do this work, whose spiritual eyesight is dimmed, who do not see the need of watching for souls as they that must give an account.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 87, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 87, 1902, par. 27
Oh, that mothers should neglect the great salvation that has been offered to them and think perhaps that they were doing a praiseworthy thing if they did not fight against the truth! Christ says, “He that is not with Me scattereth abroad.” [See Matthew 12:30.] Those who are not united with Christ are exerting an influence against Him, even if they do not openly oppose Him. God is calling upon the mothers who have not awaked before, to awake during this meeting. He holds you accountable for the souls of your children. Many of you are students of the Scriptures and are familiar with a theory of the truth, but every day you are neglecting the great salvation offered you. Even if you do not openly oppose the truth, yet if you neglect to respond to the overtures of Mercy, you are fighting against God. Notwithstanding Christ’s complete sacrifice, many who hear the truth and are familiar with its teachings still neglect the great salvation offered them. Mothers, can you afford to remain out of the ark of safety? If you remain outside, how can you expect your children to enter?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 31, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 31, 1902, par. 20
Why do you remain in the condition you are in? You know the truth. Those who know the truth, and yet refuse to obey, are a great hindrance to the work the Lord desires to have done. In your present state of mind, you might just as well be among unbelievers as among believers, because you are certainly a stumbling block. The attitude you take, and the way in which you reason, are reflecting no light to the Sanitarium. Your course [is] objectionable. You are not in harmony with the religious influence that is essential in such an institution. Your will and your way are not conformed to the will and way of God. Your ideas are so set and your will so determined that you are not in a position to be a spiritual help to the institution. You are rather a positive hindrance to your fellow physicians, to the patients, and to the helpers. Christ declares, “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] If you have a determination to resist the influence of the Spirit of God, you would better either come into working order, or separate from the Sanitarium. Your influence is not a savor of life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 106, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 106, 1902, par. 15
“He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]17LtMs, Ms 106, 1902, par. 18
Let all understand that we cannot serve God and mammon. Christ declares, “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Verse 30.] In word, in action, in spirit, in his home life, his business dealing, and his church relations, a man is a Christian or he is a sinner. The garments of Christ’s righteousness cover no soul polluted by sin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 59, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 26
God has specified the work that must be done to prepare a people to stand in the great day of test and trial that shall come to every one. Those who desire to perfect a Christlike character cannot be neutral. “He that is not with Me,” says Christ, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 177, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 177, 1902, par. 2
I shall take my writings in regard to the Southern field and make a book of them. The wicked spirit that ministers and people have shown in making false representations has greatly hindered the work, and has left a false impression on the minds of unbelievers, which has greatly dishonored God. There are those who have not come directly to those whom they have accused, to talk matters over, and learn the truth, but have gathered up the hay, wood, and stubble of falsehood, to report as facts. This has strengthened the hands of those who have done comparatively little for the Southern field, those who have thrown the weight of their influence against the work. Thus it stands registered in the books of heaven. “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 15, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 15, 1902, par. 11
“He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Thus the Lord denounces the indifference, the inactivity, of those who have been entrusted with great light, yet feel no burden of service. They may profess to serve Him, but He ranks them with open unbelievers. Their indifference leads others to make light of God-given responsibilities.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 57, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 57, 1902, par. 19
Both of you need to be converted. Neither of you has a proper idea of the meaning of obedience to God. Study the words, “He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] I sincerely hope that you will both become true children of God, servants to whom He can entrust responsibilities. Then peace and confidence and faith will come to you. Yes, you may both be happy, consistent Christians. Cultivate keenness of perception, that you may know how to choose the good and refuse the evil. Make the Word of God your study. The Lord Jesus wants you to be saved. He has wonderfully preserved you, my brother, that your life may be one of usefulness. Bring all the good works possible into it.Our High Calling
The Light of Health Reform, September 18
OHC 267.4
Those who are enjoying the precious blessings which come to them through obeying this message of mercy will do all in their power that others may share the same blessings. But we may rest assured that Satan will do all in his power to prevent anything like a message of reform from being given to the world at this time. Shall God’s people be found on the enemy’s side, either by failing to heed it themselves, or by neglecting to give it to others? “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30. If we would be safe, we must not fail to know on whose side we stand.33The Review and Herald, November 12, 1901.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 2, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 2, 1903, par. 2
Service for self takes a variety of forms. Some of these forms seem harmless. Apparent goodness gives them the appearance of genuine goodness. But they bring no glory to the Lord. By their service His cause is hindered. Christ says, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 57, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 57, 1903, par. 2
These words of Christ mark out our work for today. We are to preach the gospel in all parts of the world. By putting to use in the service of God every capability we possess, we may honor Him. Sanctified by God, we are to do our part in fulfilling the commission that Christ gave to His disciples. We should study the life of Christ, as recorded in the Bible, and seek to follow His methods of labor. If we follow our human plans, we shall hinder instead of help the work. “He that is not with Me,” said Christ, “is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Our will must be in subjection to the divine will. Our ways must be patterned after Christ’s ways. We are to wear His yoke, and learn of Him meekness and lowliness of heart.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 75, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 75, 1903, par. 5
Christ declares, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 134, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 134, 1903, par. 17
We are in this world to lift the cross of Calvary. As we lift this cross, we shall find that it lifts us. Let every Christian stand in his lot and place, catching the inspiration of the work that Christ did for souls while in this world. We need the ardor of the Christian hero, who can endure the seeing of Him that is invisible. Our faith is to have a resurrection. The soldiers of the cross are to exert a positive influence for good. Christ says, “He that is not for Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Indifference in the Christian life is a manifest denial of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 128, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 128, 1903, par. 46
In every health institution that has fallen into worldly practices, the Lord calls for a decided change. Let our workers now come out from the world and be separate. There is to be a full understanding as to who is on the Lord’s side. “He that is not with Me,” said Christ, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 246, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 246, 1903, par. 14
We are in this world to lift the cross of Calvary. As we lift this cross, we shall find that it lifts us. Let every Christian stand in his lot and place, catching the inspiration of the work that Christ did for souls while in this world. We need the ardor of the Christian hero, who can endure the seeing of Him that is invisible. Our faith is to have a resurrection. The soldiers of the cross are to exert a positive influence for good. Christ says, “He that is not for Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Indifference in the Christian life is a manifest denial of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 128a, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 128a, 1903, par. 33
There is to be a full understanding as to who is on the side of Christ. “He that is not with Me,” said Christ, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Many have fulfilled this saying to the letter. Lax views as to what constitutes truth for this present time are the result of losing the demonstrated character of the truth. As the result, there exists an inferior piety, by which the church is enfeebled and its usefulness impaired. Men and women have come to believe that they are partially their own and that they have a right to take themselves into their own hands and to do as they please, following their own judgment and planning to carry out their ideas as they may choose. Those who believe that they have this right, are on Satan’s platform.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 239, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 239, 1903, par. 25
We are in this world to lift the cross of Calvary. As we lift this cross, we shall find that it lifts us. Let every Christian stand in his lot and place, catching the inspiration of the work that Christ did for souls while in this world. We need the ardor of the Christian hero, who can endure the seeing of Him that is invisible. Our faith is to have a resurrection. The soldiers of the cross are to exert a positive influence for good. Christ says, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Indifference in the Christian life is a manifest denial of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 50, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 50, 1904, par. 27
Your profession may be as high as heaven, but if your practice does not correspond to it, if you are lukewarm, God has no place for you in His work. Christ declares, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] I would rather take the truth to unbelievers, to poor, ignorant sinners, than to those who have already heard it, but have not purified their hearts by obedience to it. Such ones are very difficult to reach.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 76, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 76, 1904, par. 3
“He that is not with Me is against Me,” Christ declares, “and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] God has given to every man his work. He expects every follower of His to exert an influence that will tell for the upbuilding of His kingdom. He who is not actively engaged in promoting love and unity and equity is exerting an influence that is opposed to Christ. At this time men need to think under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and they need to pray more and talk less; for souls are hanging in the balance. The one who has exercised masterly power in the medical missionary work has not been given permission to exercise this power. He has taken this power to himself. Heaven is grieved because acts so imperious and unadvised, and often so oppressive, are done. Christ has looked upon the kingly dictation as to what shall be and what shall not be, and He says: “Speak words that are more appropriate. Men and women are My heritage. I have not passed them over into your hands. Stand aside, and exercise your authority over yourself. I have given to My children their code and charter. For man to interfere with My heritage, or to harm one of My purchased possession, is to impugn the divine efficacy and efficiency. Those who assume such authoritative power are to be rebuked for their presumption.Our High Calling
No Middle Ground in God’s Service, October 26
OHC 305.1
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. Matthew 12:30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 255, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, par. 18
Christ is the greatest teacher that this world has ever seen. Truth never languished upon His lips, never suffered in His hands. He declares, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] God has given to every man his work. He expects every follower of His to exert an influence that will tell for the upbuilding of His kingdom. He who is not actively engaged in promoting unity and love and equity and sound principles is exerting an influence that is contrary to Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 133, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, par. 14
I am bidden to say to our church members: Will you now take your stand fully on the Lord’s side, or will you serve the Lord when it is convenient and Baal when it is convenient? Christ says, “No man can serve two masters.” “He that is not for Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 6:24; 12:30.] To be loyal to God means an entire renunciation of self and all evil working.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 171, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 171, 1905, par. 7
Christ has said that what He saw the Father do He did also in His mission and work. We are here below as learners of Christ, when we accept Christ entirely as our Saviour, submerging our will in Christ’s will, having no will of our own—for our will is altogether untrustworthy. Believe, my brethren and my sisters, believe that He will do this work with power in and through you, if you do not hinder the Lord Jesus by getting in His way and gathering up a whole burden of human theories you consider very wise, but which hinder His pure, correct working out of heavenly principles. Unless you see your mistakes, He cannot work with you; and you are obliged to work alone. And what perplexities you bring into the work! It is not a genuine, stable work, and your supposed helpfulness is a continual working against Christ’s methods. “He that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Take time to pray. It pays always to get down off your stilts of self-knowledge and self-righteousness and come as a little child to Christ. Feel and do just as He has invited you: “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 126, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 126, 1905, par. 17
I awake about one o’clock and ask the Lord to give me increased faith, that His cause and work shall become more and more manifestly the work of God. When it obtains entrance into the heart, it works with convincing power. Yes, the heart is the place for the truth to begin its work. Truth is to be a power in the life and character. If received and cherished in the heart, it will work as the leaven of a life-giving principle, changing the whole being. Truth has power to make the sayings of Christ spirit and life. If cherished and respected, it will cause the man to turn from his evil ways. Truth and error cannot abide in the same heart. “He that is not with Me is against Me,” Christ declares, “and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 53, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 53, 1906, par. 6
To the indolent, those who are careless and indifferent in their performance of duty, He declares, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 222, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, par. 11
Surrounding every soul there is an influence either for or against the truth and righteousness. “He that is not for Me,” Christ said, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Influence is an important talent. Used on the side of Christ, it becomes a power unto life eternal.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 141, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 141, 1907, par. 4
The richest blessings will rest upon the humble worker. He who comes to the Lord in simple trust will learn how to uplift the Saviour before men. Practical Christianity is the revealing in word and action of the will of God. How is the world to know on whose side we stand unless we make it known? “By their fruits,” Christ said, “ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] “He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 12:1-36
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 31a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 1
“At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungered, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.” [Matthew 12:1.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 2
The word here translated corn means wheat. The disciples rubbed the wheat in their hands, and ate the kernels. But the Pharisees were continually on Christ’s track; for the enemy was working through them to counteract Christ’s work of healing the sick and preaching the gospel to the poor. “When the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, Thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the Sabbath day. But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungered, and they that were with him: how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests, or have ye not read in the law how that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless?” [Verses 2-5.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 3
Then Christ referred to His own prerogative. “But I say unto you,” He said, “That in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the Sabbath day.” [Verses 6-8.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 4
“And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue and, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered.” [Verses 9, 10.] This man had come to the synagogue hoping to receive the great blessing of healing. This the Pharisees knew, and they felt sure that Christ meant to heal him. They determined to let Him know their mind on the matter. They asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day? That they might accuse him.” [Verse 10.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 5
“And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into the pit on the Sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out?” This it was the practice to do, and that very morning they had performed this act. “How much then is a man better than a sheep,” Christ continued. “Therefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath day.” [Verses 11, 12.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 6
“Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand.” [Verse 13.] By faith the man was to do this, and as he made the effort to move his useless hand, virtue from Christ gave vitality to the nerves and sinews and muscles, and the hand was perfectly restored.13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 8
Then the Pharisees went out, and held a counsel against Him, “how they might destroy him,” because He was the Restorer of human maladies. [Verse 14.] When Jesus knew their purpose, He withdrew Himself from them, and great multitudes followed them, and He healed them all; and charged them that they should not make Him known. He was desirous of continuing His work of healing, and relieving those who were under the cruel power of Satan. He knew that He alone could break that power.13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 16
“Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him, insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.” [Matthew 12:22.] This was Christ’s work; and had the people of Jerusalem received the truth He brought, what a great missionary center their city would have been. Backslidden Israel would have been converted. A vast army would have been gathered for the Lord. But the leaders of the people refused to assimilate with Christ.13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 17
The Saviour had received His commission from heaven to speak to those who would hear, and to help those who would be helped. But His work was made exceedingly hard by the priests and rulers. They would not cooperate with Him in His work of relieving the afflicted. They would not cease their bitter opposition to Him who was doing this great and wonderful work. When the man possessed with an evil spirit was healed the people were amazed, and said, “Is not this the Son of David? But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils but by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils.” [Verses 23, 24.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 18
“And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: and if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods except he first bind the strong man? And then he will spoil his house. He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Verses 25-30.]13LtMs, Ms 31a, 1898, par. 19
“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” [Verses 31-36.]