EGW WritingsMatthew 18
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 3
Read Matthew 18 in the BibleMatthew 18:1-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 114, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 114, 1903, par. 38
Christ was once asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” In answer He called a little child to Him, and said to those who asked the question, “Verily I say unto you. Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 115, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 5
The message that the Lord gave me particularly was to follow the life of the apostles. In the first place, in (Matthew 18:1-3), when the apostles came to the Saviour, we read:Matthew 18:1-4
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 94, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 1
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-3.]13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 3
“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as a little child,” Christ continued, “the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 4.] Will our brethren appreciate these words? Many of those who desire to preach are not accepted by the Lord. They have yet to learn the lesson of walking humbly with God, the lesson of hiding their life in the life of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 13, 1891, par. 16
If we would but learn the wonderful lessons which Jesus sought to teach His disciples from a little child, how many things that now seem insurmountable difficulties would wholly disappear. When the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” “Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as a little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 22, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 22, 1896, par. 4
“The disciples came to Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.] Who will be instructed? Who will humble his heart to learn? In this chapter there are most important lessons, given from the lips of the great Teacher. All should learn these lessons, imprinting them upon their memories as a safeguard against falling into the same error as did the disciples. Read this chapter carefully to those who are now under the influence of temptation, and who are determined to follow the imagination of their own hearts irrespective of consequences.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 154, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 154, 1903, par. 21
Matthew bears record of an occasion when the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto them, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.]18LtMs, Ms 154, 1903, par. 27
Our Saviour has given His children lesson upon lesson in regard to humility. His words are unmistakably plain: “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 3.] As in John’s epistles, the believers are spoken of as little children and are exhorted to love one another. Before Christ left His disciples, He instructed them to love one another, that all men might know that they were His disciples. “A new commandment,” He declared, “I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love for one another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Matthew 18:1-6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 354, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, par. 11
“At that same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. ... And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-3, 5, 6.]Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
A False Humility
CET 73.4
There were some who professed great humility, and advocated creeping on the floor like children, as an evidence of their humility. They claimed that the words of Christ in Matthew 18:1-6 must have a literal fulfillment at this period, when they were looking for their Saviour to return. They would creep around their houses, on the street, over bridges, and in the church itself.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 17, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 17, 1891, par. 21
In answer to the question, Who shall be greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Jesus called a little child unto Him, and said, “Verily I say unto you, except ye become converted and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever shall receive such a little child in My name receiveth Me. But whosoever shall offend one of these little ones which believeth in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.] The first work to be done in a Christian home is to see that the Spirit of Christ abides there, that every member of the household may be able to take his cross and follow where Jesus leads the way.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 82, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 1
The kingdom of heaven can be felt, but not seen. The inward working of the Spirit of God is compared to leaven. Said Christ, “The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.” [Matthew 13:33.] And again, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:3.]13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 33
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 86, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 86, 1899, par. 6
There are lessons to learn daily in regard to offering praise and thanksgiving to God. To praise God and glorify Him in the fullness and sincerity of heart is as much the duty of those who love God as is prayer. We are to show to all the heavenly intelligences that we appreciate their ministrations, and that we are expecting and waiting for the goodness and mercy and large blessings of God. Never should we lose sight of His wondrous love for the fallen human family. We are under obligations to God to offer thanksgiving. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. After a special outpouring of His Holy Spirit, our cheerfulness, our helpfulness, our joy in the Lord will be increased by recounting His goodness and His wonderful works to the children of men. This will make the Christian courageous and yet simple and trustful as a little child. Read Matthew 18:1-6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 102, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 102, 1902, par. 6
At one time the disciples came to Jesus, asking, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 208, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, par. 2
When the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus “called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever receiveth one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]Life Sketches of Ellen G. White
A False Humility
LS 85.4
There were some who professed great humility, and advocated creeping on the floor like children, as an evidence of their humility. They claimed that the words of Christ in Matthew 18:1-6 must have a literal fulfillment at this period, when they were looking for their Saviour to return. They would creep around their houses, on the street, over bridges, and in the church itself.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 82, 1898
2SAT 115.1
The kingdom of heaven can be felt, but not seen. The inward working of the Spirit of God is compared to leaven. Said Christ, “The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened” [Matthew 13:33]. And again, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” [Matthew 18:3].2SAT 120.1
Is this chapter studied and digested or is it ignored by the professed people of God who are brought together in church capacity? The one grand necessity of church members is to walk humbly with God in the path of obedience. Says the apostle: [1 Corinthians 11:16-19, quoted]: [Matthew 18:1-6, quoted.]Spalding and Magan Collection
The Review and Herald and the College Debt
SpM 148.2
There are lessons to learn daily in regard to offering praise and thanksgiving to God. To praise God and glorify him in the fulness and sincerity of heart is as much the duty of those who love God as is prayer. We are to show to all the heavenly intelligences that we appreciate their ministrations, and that we are expecting and waiting for the goodness and mercy and large blessings of God. Never should we lose sight of his wondrous love for the fallen human family. We are under obligations to God to offer thanksgiving. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. After a special outpouring of his Holy Spirit, our cheerfulness, our helpfulness, our joy in the Lord will be increased by recounting his goodness and his wonderful works to the children of men. This will make the Christian courageous and yet simple and trustful as a little child. Read Matthew 18:1-6. True humility will be evidenced by recounting the mercies of God. Think of his goodness and praise his name. The more we see and tell of the love and goodness and compassion of God, the more will gratitude spring up in our hearts. This will put a stop to grumbling. Distrust, censuring, jealousy, and evil surmising are never cherished in a heart that is thankful because of the mercies of God. True Christian life is that of higher and still higher education. Christian must grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. This is the character we must form if we have the wisdom of the Lord with us.Life Sketches Manuscript
Chapter 11—Meeting Fanaticism
LSMS 101.2
There were some who professed great humility and advocated creeping on the floor like children, as an evidence of their humility. They claimed that the words of Christ in Matthew 18:1-6 must have a literal fulfillment at this period, when they were looking for their Saviour to return. They would creep around their houses, on the street, over bridges, and in the church itself.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 32, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 32, 1890, par. 3
Christ’s work is to help all who really feel their need of help from Him and to be a strength to all who really feel their own weakness. Every individual member of the church should not rest until they have a deep and living experience in the things of God. It is not our work to be seeking for the supremacy, but it is ever safe to seek for the meekness and gentleness of Christ. (Matthew 18:1-6): “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a mill stone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”Matthew 18:1-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 60, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 60, 1898, par. 33
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself, as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.]13LtMs, Ms 60, 1898, par. 35
“And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me,” Christ continued. “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come, but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Verses 5-7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 1, 1878
3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 53
Mark the teachings of Christ upon humility and the care and tenderness which should be manifested for the souls of the flock: “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offences cometh!” [Matthew 18:1-7.]3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 54
There may be in the church those who do not honor the cause of God, whose lives and characters reveal the deformity of sin. But we must bear long, even with these, remembering how Jesus bears with us; how sinful we have been, and how He loves us still. Christ paid an infinite price to redeem us from ruin and despair, and with hearts filled with gratitude to God, we should manifest toward others the same love, tenderness, and forbearance that we would have Him exercise toward us as sinful, erring mortals. While we need grace and mercy every moment, and forgiveness daily, how unbecoming for us to be so ready to criticize, censure, and condemn our brethren who are of like passions with ourselves. The reproof given by our Redeemer condemns all this. Such conduct is the result of self-esteem and self-exaltation; persons strive for the supremacy and become envious and jealous, lest others shall come in and fill a higher place than they themselves occupy. But the teachings of Christ on this point are clear and decided: “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 3.] We must constantly cherish meekness and humility, if we would possess the spirit of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 15, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 15, 1898, par. 4
There is reward and forgiveness with God, and if you now humble your heart as a little child before Him, He will receive you. “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as a little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a mill stone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe unto that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Matthew 18:1-7.]Matthew 18:1-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 117, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 117, 1897, par. 6
“The disciples came to Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child to him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come, but woe unto that man by whom the offense cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or feet to be cast into everlasting fire.” [Matthew 18:1-8.]Matthew 18:1-9
Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 5—The Fanatical Mind
1MCP 44.1
Turn Away From the Negative Side (counsel to a minister)—If you could see the result of always occupying the negative side, as you have done for years to a greater or less extent, you would have a better understanding of the words of the Saviour, recorded in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. The disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!” (Matthew 18:1-7).1MCP 44.2
My brother, cast away all evil thinking. Humble your heart before God. Then, your eyes being opened, you will no longer stand on the negative side. “If thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire” (Matthew 18:8). Cut away your defective attributes, however painful to human nature it may be to do this. “And if thine eye”—so sharp to see something to criticize or oppose—“offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire” (verse 9).—Letter 93, 1901Matthew 18:1-10
The Upward Look
Jesus Listens to the Contrite, September 23
UL 280.1
Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:10.UL 280.4
Oh, we must not grieve the Saviour by our lack of love for one another.... At one time the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:1-3)....Matthew 18:1-11
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 25
When the disciples came to Jesus saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them and said, “Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted and become as little children ye shall not enter into the Kingdom. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.] Those who would see a better state of things in the office must not now brood over the errors of the past, but all help in love to strengthen each other to prevent errors in the future.7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 40
We need to study the Bible diligently that we may learn the real value of man in the light of the cross of Calvary. Jesus said, “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones that believe in me; for I say unto you that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” [Matthew 18:10, 11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 53, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 53, 1894, par. 20
“But whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. ... Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which is lost.” [Matthew 18:1-6, 10, 11.]Matthew 18:1-14
Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
The Proper Way to Deal With Students in Our Schools
9MR 57.7
No teacher, I care not who he is, can have any influence over the students for good, no matter how well educated, how intellectual, or how refined he may be, unless he loves them. What shall we do? Put away the iron that is in your souls—these satanic attributes that bear such fruit—whatever it may cost you—even if it costs you your right arm, as Christ said when talking to His disciples. “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus” to be converted—they were following Christ, learning of Christ. “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:1, 3). What is the matter? There are many who do not put themselves in the place of the child. They do not see that in bruising that child they are bruising their own soul more, because they are destroying his manhood. What God wants is that we should seek and save that which is lost.9MR 58.1
He says, “Whosoever shall humble himself” (verse 4). How hard it is! It is like severing an arm. But whatever spirit there is in us that prompts to harshness and arbitrary action, however dear that spirit is to us, or however much we want to cherish it, that spirit must die. That spirit must go out of our hearts and go out of the church, and the spirit of love and tenderness and forbearance come in.9MR 59.2
“Whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck.... Wherefore, if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off” (Matthew 18:5, 6, 8). No matter how dear your way is, how grandly you look upon your ideas and plans, the question is: Are you going to come to God’s ideas and God’s plans and ways? Unless you are, you are under the condemnation of God today, and ought to be converted.9MR 59.4
“Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish” (Matthew 18:14). I know something of what I am talking. The objectionable characters are the very ones who are sick. They need your help, and for these very ones you should put forth extra effort. Do not cut the knot of difficulty by sending them where the devil wants them, but bind them with the cords of love—just where Christ did. Christ said in regard to Zacchaeus, that He came to save that which was lost—that which was hopeless in the eyes of others. The Pharisees found fault with Him, because He was so tender and merciful toward others, but here Christ has shown what He would do. What we want is to melt our hard hearts in pieces before God.The Review and Herald
November 17, 1896
RH November 17, 1896, Art. A, par. 6
But this is not the way we are to treat those who are weak in the faith,—those who have not much strength of character. Our course of action is clearly marked out for us: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Those who have, through their own error of judgment, pursued such a course as to discourage one of the Lord’s children, should go to the word of God for themselves; they should heed the admonitions given by the world’s Redeemer,—he who took our human nature, and was in all points tempted like as we are, that he might be able to succor them that are tempted. In Matthew 18:1-14 is contained a lesson of the highest importance to those who are striving for the crown of eternal life. There we read, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Calling a little child to him, Jesus said: “Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.... Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 208a, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 208a, 1902, par. 31
These same dangers beset the disciples of Christ in our day. We need the instruction that Christ gave to His disciples. Some think that they should be placed at the head of some work which has been developed by the hard labor and self-sacrifice of others, as though its success were attributable to them. Christ gave instruction to His disciples regarding these principles. When they came and asked Him, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Jesus called a little child unto Him and set him in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:1, 2.]17LtMs, Lt 208a, 1902, par. 33
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into the life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 3-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 126, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 126, 1907, par. 16
When He reached Capernaum, and had entered a house, the disciples came to Him, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-3.]22LtMs, Ms 126, 1907, par. 20
“And whosoever receiveth one such little child in My name,” the Saviour continued, “receiveth Me.” And “whoso shall offend one of these little ones ... it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and he were drowned into the depths of the sea.” [Verses 5, 6.]22LtMs, Ms 126, 1907, par. 21
The “little ones” are not children in years, but those who are young in the Christian life. Those who have newly come to the faith are to be treated with love and tenderness. They are to be instructed by precept and example in the way of the truth. “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones, for I say unto you, That in heaven, their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which is lost.” [Verses 10, 11.]22LtMs, Ms 126, 1907, par. 24
“How think ye,” the Saviour said, “if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and goeth into the mountains and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, Verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more over that sheep than over the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 12-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 60, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 1
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 2
By “little ones” Christ does not mean babies. Those to whom He refers are “little ones which believe in Me”—those who have not gained an experience in following Him, those who need to be led like children, as it were, in seeking the things of the kingdom of heaven. [Verse 6.]19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 3
“Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe unto that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Verse 7.]19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 4
“Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life halt, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.” [Verse 8.]19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 5
“Cut them off and cast them from thee.” [Verse 8.] That is, if you have ideas and sentiments which you cherish so tenaciously that you want every one to agree with your ideas, to think as you think and speak as you speak, you would better cease to cherish these ideas and sentiments.19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 6
“And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.” [Verse 9.]19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 7
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” [Verse 10.] These “little ones” may not know as much as you know. They may not understand all they should understand. But they will understand this if they are given opportunity, and if those who profess to be children of God set them a Christlike example.19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 8
“For I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” [Verse 10.] Christ is speaking of those who need the perfect example in the right way that you can give them, and if by any word of yours or any wrong course of action, you mislead their feet, so that they stumble in the way, because of the crooked paths you have made, the Holy Spirit is deeply grieved.19LtMs, Ms 60, 1904, par. 9
“For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the wilderness, and seeketh that which is gone astray. And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 11-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 94, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 94, 1904, par. 12
The Saviour is in communication with every part of His vast dominion. He stoops from His throne to listen to the cries of His children. His heart of love is filled with pity and compassion for them. But His greatest grief, I am instructed to say, comes when grief is brought to those whom He has appointed to do a certain work, when some one who does not understand the will of God urges his way in to cloud judgment by many words. Months and years may be needed to undo the wrong wrought in the few minutes spent in speaking unadvised words. Oh, we must not grieve the Saviour by our lack of love for one another. The Lord is very explicit regarding the tenderness that we are to show for one another. At one time the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name, receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]19LtMs, Ms 94, 1904, par. 14
“How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 10-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 8a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 8a, 1891, par. 14
Any teacher, I don’t care who he is, unless he can make the students think that he loves them, cannot have any influence over them for good, no matter how well educated, how intellectual, or how refined he may be. What shall we do? Put away the iron that is in your souls, these satanic attributes that bear such fruit, whatever it may cost you—even if it cost you your right arm, as Christ said when talking to His disciples. “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus” to be converted. They were following Christ, learning of Christ. “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:1-6. What is the matter? There are many who do not put themselves in the place of the child. They do not see that in bruising that child they are bruising their own soul more, because they are destroying his manhood. What God wants is that we should seek and save that which is lost.7LtMs, Ms 8a, 1891, par. 16
You want to be where you can deal with human minds just as tenderly as Christ has dealt with you. If you should have Christ deal with you as some teachers have dealt with students in the schools, you would be indignant. You are not perfect as many of you may think you are, but not one of you is, in the sight of God. And if you want Christ to forgive your sins, you must be kind to those whom Satan is seeking to lead under his dark banner. “Whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck. ... If thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off.” Matthew 18:5-10. No matter how dear your way is, how grandly you look upon your ideas and plans, the question is, Are you going to come to God’s ideas and God’s plans and ways? Unless you are, you are under the condemnation of God today and ought to be converted.7LtMs, Ms 8a, 1891, par. 17
We see one going astray. What are we going to do? Cut him off from us and leave him in the hands of Satan? Or are we going to bring him into the hands of Christ where we can pray for him and lead and guide him? Is that what we are going to do? Build up the barriers between God and the soul? No, that is the devil’s work, and we don’t want to do his work; we want to do Christ’s work, the work of the Spirit. “If so be that he find it.” It does not say that He will always find it. “Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:13, 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 23, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 23, 1894, par. 11
“But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it would be better for him that a mill-stone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! For it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Matthew 18:1-7.] “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man has come to save that which was lost.9LtMs, Lt 23, 1894, par. 12
“How think ye? If a man hath an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 10-14.] Read the whole chapter verse by verse, solemnly and reverently, and then repent before God, and be converted, and have the humility of a little child.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 36, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 36, 1895, par. 17
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which is lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:1-7, 10-14.]Matthew 18:1-15
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 229, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 229, 1905, par. 7
At one time the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” In answer Jesus called a little child unto Him, and setting him in the midst of them, said, “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. ... And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses; for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Matthew 18:1-7.]20LtMs, Lt 229, 1905, par. 15
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” When a man has a suspicion of another, he should go to the one suspected of wrong and tell him his fault, as the scripture says, “between thee and him alone.” “If he will hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” [Matthew 18:15.] Never is a member of the church to be treated as a rebel until every possible means has been used to bring about an understanding. We are strictly to follow the directions that Christ has taken special pains to give to the church. Not one item is to be disregarded.Matthew 18:1-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 16, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 16, 1903, par. 10
Plain, definite instruction has been given us. When the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” “Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]18LtMs, Lt 16, 1903, par. 11
Again: “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verses 15-18.]Matthew 18:1-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 140, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, par. 5
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:1-14.]25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, par. 7
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he shall neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 15-20.]The Desire of Ages
Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?
DA 432.1
On returning to Capernaum, Jesus did not repair to the well-known resorts where He had taught the people, but with His disciples quietly sought the house that was to be His temporary home. During the remainder of His stay in Galilee it was His object to instruct the disciples rather than to labor for the multitudes.DA 432.2
On the journey through Galilee, Christ had again tried to prepare the minds of His disciples for the scenes before Him. He told them that He was to go up to Jerusalem to be put to death and to rise again. And He added the strange and solemn announcement that He was to be betrayed into the hands of His enemies. The disciples did not even now comprehend His words. Although the shadow of a great sorrow fell upon them, a spirit of rivalry found a place in their hearts. They disputed among themselves which should be accounted greatest in the kingdom. This strife they thought to conceal from Jesus, and they did not, as usual, press close to His side, but loitered behind, so that He was in advance of them as they entered Capernaum. Jesus read their thoughts, and He longed to counsel and instruct them. But for this He awaited a quiet hour, when their hearts should be open to receive His words.DA 432.3
Soon after they reached the town, the collector of the temple revenue came to Peter with the question, “Doth not your Master pay tribute?” This tribute was not a civil tax, but a religious contribution, which every Jew was required to pay annually for the support of the temple. A refusal to pay the tribute would be regarded as disloyalty to the temple,—in the estimation of the rabbis a most grievous sin. The Saviour’s attitude toward the rabbinical laws, and His plain reproofs to the defenders of tradition, afforded a pretext for the charge that He was seeking to overthrow the temple service. Now His enemies saw an opportunity of casting discredit upon Him. In the collector of the tribute they found a ready ally.DA 433.1
Peter saw in the collector’s question an insinuation touching Christ’s loyalty to the temple. Zealous for his Master’s honor, he hastily answered, without consulting Him, that Jesus would pay the tribute.DA 433.2
But Peter only partially comprehended the purpose of his questioner. There were some classes who were held to be exempt from the payment of the tribute. In the time of Moses, when the Levites were set apart for the service of the sanctuary, they were given no inheritance among the people. The Lord said, “Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the Lord is his inheritance.” Deuteronomy 10:9. In the days of Christ the priests and Levites were still regarded as especially devoted to the temple, and were not required to make the annual contribution for its support. Prophets also were exempted from this payment. In requiring the tribute from Jesus, the rabbis were setting aside His claim as a prophet or teacher, and were dealing with Him as with any commonplace person. A refusal on His part to pay the tribute would be represented as disloyalty to the temple; while, on the other hand, the payment of it would be taken as justifying their rejection of Him as a prophet.DA 433.3
Only a little before, Peter had acknowledged Jesus as the Son of God; but he now missed an opportunity of setting forth the character of his Master. By his answer to the collector, that Jesus would pay the tribute, he had virtually sanctioned the false conception of Him to which the priests and rulers were trying to give currency.DA 433.4
When Peter entered the house, the Saviour made no reference to what had taken place, but inquired, “What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?” Peter answered, “Of strangers.” And Jesus said, “Then are the children free.” While the people of a country are taxed for the maintenance of their king, the monarch’s own children are exempt. So Israel, the professed people of God, were required to maintain His service; but Jesus, the Son of God, was under no such obligation. If priests and Levites were exempt because of their connection with the temple, how much more He to whom the temple was His Father’s house.DA 434.1
If Jesus had paid the tribute without a protest, He would virtually have acknowledged the justice of the claim, and would thus have denied His divinity. But while He saw good to meet the demand, He denied the claim upon which it was based. In providing for the payment of the tribute He gave evidence of His divine character. It was made manifest that He was one with God, and therefore was not under tribute as a mere subject of the kingdom.DA 434.2
“Go thou to the sea,” He directed Peter, “and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for Me and thee.”DA 434.3
Though He had clothed His divinity with humanity, in this miracle He revealed His glory. It was evident that this was He who through David had declared, “Every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains; and the wild beasts of the field are Mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof.” Psalm 50:10-12.DA 434.4
While Jesus made it plain that He was under no obligation to pay the tribute, He entered into no controversy with the Jews in regard to the matter; for they would have misinterpreted His words, and turned them against Him. Lest He should give offense by withholding the tribute, He did that which He could not justly be required to do. This lesson would be of great value to His disciples. Marked changes were soon to take place in their relation to the temple service, and Christ taught them not to place themselves needlessly in antagonism to established order. So far as possible, they were to avoid giving occasion for misinterpretation of their faith. While Christians are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, they should avoid controversy whenever it is possible to do so.DA 434.5
When Christ and the disciples were alone in the house, while Peter was gone to the sea, Jesus called the others to Him, and asked, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?” The presence of Jesus, and His question, put the matter in an entirely different light from that in which it had appeared to them while they were contending by the way. Shame and self-condemnation kept them silent. Jesus had told them that He was to die for their sake, and their selfish ambition was in painful contrast to His unselfish love.DA 435.1
When Jesus told them that He was to be put to death and to rise again, He was trying to draw them into conversation in regard to the great test of their faith. Had they been ready to receive what He desired to make known to them, they would have been saved bitter anguish and despair. His words would have brought consolation in the hour of bereavement and disappointment. But although He had spoken so plainly of what awaited Him, His mention of the fact that He was soon to go to Jerusalem again kindled their hope that the kingdom was about to be set up. This had led to questioning as to who should fill the highest offices. On Peter’s return from the sea, the disciples told him of the Saviour’s question, and at last one ventured to ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”DA 435.2
The Saviour gathered His disciples about Him, and said to them, “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” There was in these words a solemnity and impressiveness which the disciples were far from comprehending. That which Christ discerned they could not see. They did not understand the nature of Christ’s kingdom, and this ignorance was the apparent cause of their contention. But the real cause lay deeper. By explaining the nature of the kingdom, Christ might for the time have quelled their strife; but this would not have touched the underlying cause. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question of precedence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been brought to the church after Christ’s departure. The strife for the highest place was the outworking of that same spirit which was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above, and which had brought Christ from heaven to die. There rose up before Him a vision of Lucifer, the “son of the morning,” in glory surpassing all the angels that surround the throne, and united in closest ties to the Son of God. Lucifer had said, “I will be like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:12, 14); and the desire for self-exaltation had brought strife into the heavenly courts, and had banished a multitude of the hosts of God. Had Lucifer really desired to be like the Most High, he would never have deserted his appointed place in heaven; for the spirit of the Most High is manifested in unselfish ministry. Lucifer desired God’s power, but not His character. He sought for himself the highest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus alienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable. Dominion becomes the prize of the strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which he himself may climb to a higher place.DA 436.1
While Lucifer counted it a thing to be grasped to be equal with God, Christ, the Exalted One, “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:7, 8. Now the cross was just before Him; and His own disciples were so filled with self-seeking—the very principle of Satan’s kingdom—that they could not enter into sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for them.DA 436.2
Very tenderly, yet with solemn emphasis, Jesus tried to correct the evil. He showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven, and in what true greatness consists, as estimated by the standard of the courts above. Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of themselves, and of the rewards they were to have, rather than how they were to render back to God the gifts they had received. They would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with the ranks of Satan.DA 436.3
Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who, like John the Baptist, takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. The heavenly intelligences can co-operate with him who is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save souls. He who feels most deeply his need of divine aid will plead for it; and the Holy Spirit will give unto him glimpses of Jesus that will strengthen and uplift the soul. From communion with Christ he will go forth to work for those who are perishing in their sins. He is anointed for his mission; and he succeeds where many of the learned and intellectually wise would fail.DA 436.4
But when men exalt themselves, feeling that they are a necessity for the success of God’s great plan, the Lord causes them to be set aside. It is made evident that the Lord is not dependent upon them. The work does not stop because of their removal from it, but goes forward with greater power.DA 437.1
It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the nature of His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart that would bring them into harmony with its principles. Calling a little child to Him, Jesus set him in the midst of them; then tenderly folding the little one in His arms He said, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” The simplicity, the self-forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the attributes that Heaven values. These are the characteristics of real greatness.DA 437.2
Again Jesus explained to the disciples that His kingdom is not characterized by earthly dignity and display. At the feet of Jesus all these distinctions are forgotten. The rich and the poor, the learned and the ignorant, meet together, with no thought of caste or worldly preeminence. All meet as blood-bought souls, alike dependent upon One who has redeemed them to God.DA 437.3
The sincere, contrite soul is precious in the sight of God. He places His own signet upon men, not by their rank, not by their wealth, not by their intellectual greatness, but by their oneness with Christ. The Lord of glory is satisfied with those who are meek and lowly in heart. “Thou hast also given me,” said David, “the shield of Thy salvation: ... and Thy gentleness”—as an element in the human character—“hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35.DA 437.4
“Whosoever shall receive one of such children in My name,” said Jesus, “receiveth Me: and whosoever shall receive Me, receiveth not Me, but Him that sent Me.” “Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool: ... but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My word.” Isaiah 66:1, 2.DA 437.5
The Saviour’s words awakened in the disciples a feeling of self-distrust. No one had been specially pointed out in the reply; but John was led to question whether in one case his action had been right. With the spirit of a child he laid the matter before Jesus. “Master,” he said, “we saw one casting out devils in Thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”DA 437.6
James and John had thought that in checking this man they had had in view their Lord’s honor; they began to see that they were jealous for their own. They acknowledged their error, and accepted the reproof of Jesus, “Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My name, that can lightly speak evil of Me.” None who showed themselves in any way friendly to Christ were to be repulsed. There were many who had been deeply moved by the character and the work of Christ, and whose hearts were opening to Him in faith; and the disciples, who could not read motives, must be careful not to discourage these souls. When Jesus was no longer personally among them, and the work was left in their hands, they must not indulge a narrow, exclusive spirit, but manifest the same far-reaching sympathy which they had seen in their Master.DA 438.1
The fact that one does not in all things conform to our personal ideas or opinions will not justify us in forbidding him to labor for God. Christ is the Great Teacher; we are not to judge or to command, but in humility each is to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. Every soul whom God has made willing is a channel through which Christ will reveal His pardoning love. How careful we should be lest we discourage one of God’s light bearers, and thus intercept the rays that He would have shine to the world!DA 438.2
Harshness or coldness shown by a disciple toward one whom Christ was drawing—such an act as that of John in forbidding one to work miracles in Christ’s name—might result in turning the feet into the path of the enemy, and causing the loss of a soul. Rather than for one to do this, said Jesus, “it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.” And He added, “If thy hand cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life maimed, rather than having thy two hands to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire. And if thy foot cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life halt, rather than having thy two feet to be cast into hell.” Mark 9:43-45, R. V.DA 438.3
Why this earnest language, than which none can be stronger? Because “the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” Shall His disciples show less regard for the souls of their fellow men than the Majesty of heaven has shown? Every soul has cost an infinite price, and how terrible is the sin of turning one soul away from Christ, so that for him the Saviour’s love and humiliation and agony shall have been in vain.DA 438.4
“Woe unto the world because of occasions of stumbling! for it must needs be that the occasions come.” Matthew 18:7, R. V. The world, inspired by Satan, will surely oppose the followers of Christ, and seek to destroy their faith; but woe to him who has taken Christ’s name, and yet is found doing this work. Our Lord is put to shame by those who claim to serve Him, but who misrepresent His character; and multitudes are deceived, and led into false paths.DA 439.1
Any habit or practice that would lead into sin, and bring dishonor upon Christ, would better be put away, whatever the sacrifice. That which dishonors God cannot benefit the soul. The blessing of heaven cannot attend any man in violating the eternal principles of right. And one sin cherished is sufficient to work the degradation of the character, and to mislead others. If the foot or the hand would be cut off, or even the eye would be plucked out, to save the body from death, how much more earnest should we be to put away sin, that brings death to the soul!DA 439.2
In the ritual service, salt was added to every sacrifice. This, like the offering of incense, signified that only the righteousness of Christ could make the service acceptable to God. Referring to this practice, Jesus said, “Every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.” “Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” All who would present themselves “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God” (Romans 12:1), must receive the saving salt, the righteousness of our Saviour. Then they become “the salt of the earth,” restraining evil among men, as salt preserves from corruption. Matthew 5:13. But if the salt has lost its savor; if there is only a profession of godliness, without the love of Christ, there is no power for good. The life can exert no saving influence upon the world. Your energy and efficiency in the upbuilding of My kingdom, Jesus says, depend upon your receiving of My Spirit. You must be partakers of My grace, in order to be a savor of life unto life. Then there will be no rivalry, no self-seeking, no desire for the highest place. You will have that love which seeks not her own, but another’s wealth.DA 439.3
Let the repenting sinner fix his eyes upon “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29); and by beholding, he becomes changed. His fear is turned to joy, his doubts to hope. Gratitude springs up. The stony heart is broken. A tide of love sweeps into the soul. Christ is in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life. When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to save the lost, slighted, scorned, derided, driven from city to city till His mission was accomplished; when we behold Him in Gethsemane, sweating great drops of blood, and on the cross dying in agony,—when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be recognized. Looking unto Jesus, we shall be ashamed of our coldness, our lethargy, our self-seeking. We shall be willing to be anything or nothing, so that we may do heart service for the Master. We shall rejoice to bear the cross after Jesus, to endure trial, shame, or persecution for His dear sake.DA 440.1
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1. No soul who believes in Christ, though his faith may be weak, and his steps wavering as those of a little child, is to be lightly esteemed. By all that has given us advantage over another,—be it education and refinement, nobility of character, Christian training, religious experience,—we are in debt to those less favored; and, so far as lies in our power, we are to minister unto them. If we are strong, we are to stay up the hands of the weak. Angels of glory, that do always behold the face of the Father in heaven, joy in ministering to His little ones. Trembling souls, who have many objectionable traits of character, are their special charge. Angels are ever present where they are most needed, with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging. And in this ministry Christ’s true followers will co-operate.DA 440.2
If one of these little ones shall be overcome, and commit a wrong against you, then it is your work to seek his restoration. Do not wait for him to make the first effort for reconciliation. “How think ye?” said Jesus; “if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.”DA 440.3
In the spirit of meekness, “considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted,” (Galatians 6:1), go to the erring one, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Do not put him to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor upon Christ by making public the sin or error of one who bears His name. Often the truth must be plainly spoken to the erring; he must be led to see his error, that he may reform. But you are not to judge or to condemn. Make no attempt at self-justification. Let all your effort be for his recovery. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch, the finest sensibility. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. With pitying tenderness, let brother deal with brother, knowing that if you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.DA 441.1
But even this effort may be unavailing. Then, said Jesus, “take with thee one or two more.” It may be that their united influence will prevail where that of the first was unsuccessful. Not being parties to the trouble, they will be more likely to act impartially, and this fact will give their counsel greater weight with the erring one.DA 441.2
If he will not hear them, then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought before the whole body of believers. Let the members of the church, as the representatives of Christ, unite in prayer and loving entreaty that the offender may be restored. The Holy Spirit will speak through His servants, pleading with the wanderer to return to God. Paul the apostle, speaking by inspiration, says, “As though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20. He who rejects this united overture has broken the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself from the fellowship of the church. Henceforth, said Jesus, “let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” But he is not to be regarded as cut off from the mercy of God. Let him not be despised or neglected by his former brethren, but be treated with tenderness and compassion, as one of the lost sheep that Christ is still seeking to bring to His fold.DA 441.3
Christ’s instruction as to the treatment of the erring repeats in more specific form the teaching given to Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in anywise rebuke thy neighbor, that thou bear not sin for him.” Leviticus 19:17, margin. That is, if one neglects the duty Christ has enjoined, of trying to restore those who are in error and sin, he becomes a partaker in the sin. For evils that we might have checked, we are just as responsible as if we were guilty of the acts ourselves.DA 441.4
But it is to the wrongdoer himself that we are to present the wrong. We are not to make it a matter of comment and criticism among ourselves; nor even after it is told to the church, are we at liberty to repeat it to others. A knowledge of the faults of Christians will be only a cause of stumbling to the unbelieving world; and by dwelling upon these things, we ourselves can receive only harm; for it is by beholding that we become changed. While we seek to correct the errors of a brother, the Spirit of Christ will lead us to shield him, as far as possible, from the criticism of even his own brethren, and how much more from the censure of the unbelieving world. We ourselves are erring, and need Christ’s pity and forgiveness, and just as we wish Him to deal with us, He bids us deal with one another.DA 442.1
“Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” You are acting as the ambassadors of heaven, and the issues of your work are for eternity.DA 442.2
But we are not to bear this great responsibility alone. Wherever His word is obeyed with a sincere heart, there Christ abides. Not only is He present in the assemblies of the church, but wherever disciples, however few, meet in His name, there also He will be. And He says, “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.”DA 442.3
Jesus says, “My Father which is in heaven,” as reminding His disciples that while by His humanity He is linked with them, a sharer in their trials, and sympathizing with them in their sufferings, by His divinity He is connected with the throne of the Infinite. Wonderful assurance! The heavenly intelligences unite with men in sympathy and labor for the saving of that which was lost. And all the power of heaven is brought to combine with human ability in drawing souls to Christ.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 48—Who Is the Greatest?
HLv 292.1
Returning to Capernaum, Jesus quietly sought the house that was to be His temporary home. During the remainder of His stay in Galilee, it was His object to instruct the disciples rather than labor for the multitudes.HLv 292.2
Christ had again told them that He was to be put to death and to rise again. And He added that He was to be betrayed into the hands of His enemies. The disciples did not even now comprehend His words. Although the shadow of a great sorrow fell upon them, they disputed among themselves which should be greatest in the kingdom. This strife they thought to conceal from Jesus. Jesus read their thoughts and longed to counsel them, but for this He awaited a quiet hour when their hearts should be open to receive His words.HLv 292.3
Soon after they reached town the collector of the temple revenue questioned Peter, “Doth not your Master pay tribute?” This religious contribution every Jew was required to pay annually. A refusal to pay would be, in the estimation of the rabbis, a grievous sin. Now His enemies saw an opportunity of casting discredit upon Him. In the collector of the tribute they found a ready ally.HLv 292.4
Zealous for his Master’s honor, Peter hastily answered that Jesus would pay the tribute. But some classes were exempt from payment of the tribute. The priests and Levites, still regarded as especially devoted to the temple, were not required to make the annual contribution for its support. Prophets also were exempt. In requiring tribute from Jesus, the rabbis were setting aside His claim as a prophet and were dealing with Him as with any commonplace person. A refusal to pay would be represented as disloyalty to the temple; on the other hand, payment would be taken as justifying their rejection of Him as a prophet. By his answer to the collector, Peter virtually sanctioned the false conception to which the priests and rulers were trying to give currency.HLv 293.1
When Peter entered the house, the Saviour made no reference to what had taken place, but inquired, “What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?” Peter answered, “Of strangers.” And Jesus said, “Then are the children free.” While the people are taxed for the maintenance of their king, the monarch’s own children are exempt. So Israel, the people of God, were required to maintain His service; but Jesus, the Son of God, was under no such obligation.HLv 293.2
If Jesus had paid the tribute without a protest, He would virtually have acknowledged the justice of the claim and thus denied His divinity. But He denied the claim on which it was based. In providing for the payment, He gave evidence of His divine character, and therefore was not under tribute as a mere subject of the kingdom.HLv 293.3
“Go thou to the sea,” He directed Peter, “and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for Me and thee.”HLv 293.4
While Jesus made it plain that He was under no obligation to pay the tribute, He entered into no controversy in regard to the matter. Lest He should give offense by withholding the tribute, He did that which He could not justly be required to do. This lesson would be of great value to His disciples. They were not to place themselves needlessly in antagonism to established order. Christians are not to sacrifice one principle of truth, but they should avoid controversy whenever possible. While Peter was gone to the sea, Jesus called the other disciples to Him, and asked, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?” Shame and self-condemnation kept them silent. Jesus had told them that He was to die for their sake, and their selfish ambition was in painful contrast to His unselfish love. But although He had spoken so plainly of what awaited Him, His mention of the fact that He was soon to go to Jerusalem again kindled their hope that the kingdom was about to be set up. This had led to questioning as to who should fill the highest offices. At last one ventured to ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”HLv 294.1
The Saviour said to them, “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” They did not understand the nature of Christ’s kingdom, and this was the apparent cause of their contention. But the real cause lay deeper. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question of precedence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been brought to the church after Christ’s departure. The strife for the highest place was the outworking of that same spirit which was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above and which had brought Christ from heaven to die. There rose up before Him a vision of Lucifer, who had said, “I will be like the Most High.” Isaiah 14:14. The desire for self-exaltation had brought strife into the heavenly courts. Lucifer desired God’s power, but not His character. He sought the highest place, and every being actuated by his spirit will do the same. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on which to climb to a higher place.HLv 295.1
While Lucifer sought to be equal with God, Christ “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:7, 8. Now the cross was just before Him; and His own disciples were so filled with self-seeking that they could not enter into sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for them.HLv 295.2
Jesus tried to correct the evil. He showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven, and in what true greatness consists. Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of themselves, and of the rewards they were to have. They would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with the ranks of Satan.HLv 295.3
Before honor is humility. To fill a high place before men, Heaven chooses the worker who takes a lowly place before God. The most childlike disciple is the most efficient in labor for God. He who feels his need of divine aid will plead for it. From communion with Christ he will go forth to work, anointed for his mission, and he succeeds where many of the intellectually wise would fail.HLv 295.4
But when men exalt themselves, feeling that they are a necessity for the success of God’s plan, the Lord causes them to be set aside. The work does not stop, but goes forward with greater power.HLv 295.5
It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the nature of His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart. Calling a little child to Him, Jesus set him in the midst of them; then tenderly folding the little one in His arms, He said, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” The simplicity, the self-forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the attributes that Heaven values, the characteristics of real greatness. At the feet of Jesus earthly dignity and display are forgotten. Rich and poor, learned and ignorant, meet together as blood-bought souls, with no thought of caste or worldly preeminence.HLv 296.1
God places His own signet on men, not by rank, not by wealth, not by intellectual greatness, but by their oneness with Christ. “Thou hast also given me,” said David, “the shield of Thy salvation: ... and Thy gentleness”—as an element in the human character—“hath made me great.” Psalm 18:35.HLv 296.2
The Saviour’s words awakened in the disciples a feeling of self-distrust. John was led to question whether in one case his action had been right. “Master,” he said, “we saw one casting out devils in Thy name, ... and we forbade him, because he followeth not us.”HLv 296.3
James and John thought that in checking this man they had in view their Lord’s honor; they began to see they were jealous for their own. They acknowledged their error, and accepted the reproof of Jesus, “Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in My name, that can lightly speak evil of Me.” Many had been deeply moved by the character and work of Christ, and their hearts were opening to Him in faith. The disciples must be careful not to discourage these souls. They must manifest the same far-reaching sympathy they had seen in their Master.HLv 296.4
Christ is the Great Teacher; we are to sit at His feet and learn of Him. Every soul whom God has made willing is a channel through which Christ will reveal His pardoning love. How careful we should be lest we discourage one of God’s light bearers, and thus intercept the rays He would have shine to the world!HLv 296.5
Such an act as that of John in forbidding one to work miracles in Christ’s name might result in causing the loss of a soul. Rather than for one to do this, said Jesus, “It is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.”HLv 296.6
Why this strong language? Because “the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10. Shall His disciples show less regard for the souls of their fellowmen than the Majesty of heaven has shown? How terrible the sin of turning one soul away, so that for him the Saviour’s love and agony shall have been in vain.HLv 297.1
“Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come.” RSV. The world will surely oppose the followers of Christ, but woe to him who has taken Christ’s name and yet is found doing this work. Multitudes are deceived and led into false paths by those who claim to serve Him but misrepresent His character.HLv 297.2
One sin cherished is sufficient to degrade the character and mislead others. If the foot or the hand would be cut off, or even the eye be plucked out, to save the body from death, how earnest should we be to put away sin that brings death to the soul!HLv 297.3
In the ritual service salt was added to every sacrifice. This, like the offering of incense, signified that only the righteousness of Christ could make the service acceptable to God. Referring to this, Jesus said, “Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.” All must receive the saving salt, the righteousness of our Saviour. Then they become “the salt of the earth,” restraining evil among men, as salt preserves from corruption. Matthew 5:13. But if the salt has lost its savor, the life can exert no saving influence on the world. Jesus says, You must be partakers of My grace, in order to be a savor of life unto life. Then there will be no rivalry, no self-seeking, no desire for the highest place.HLv 297.4
When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to save the lost, slighted, scorned, driven from city to city till His mission was accomplished; when we behold Him in Gethsemane, sweating great drops of blood, and on the cross dying in agony—when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be recognized. We shall rejoice to bear the cross after Jesus, to endure trial, shame, or persecution for His sake.HLv 298.1
No soul who believes in Christ is to be lightly esteemed. By all that has given us advantage over another—education, refinement, nobility of character, religious experience—we are in debt to those less favored. If we are strong, we are to stay up the hands of the weak. Angels are ever present with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, who have many objectionable traits of character, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging. And in this ministry Christ’s true followers will cooperate.HLv 298.2
“What do you think?” said Jesus. “If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of My Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” RSV.HLv 298.3
Do not put the erring one to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor on Christ by making public the sin of one who bears His name. The erring must be led to see his error, that he may reform; but you are not to judge or condemn. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. If you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.HLv 298.4
But even this effort may be unavailing. Then Jesus said, “Take one or two others along with you.” RSV. If he will not hear them, then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought before the whole body of believers. Let the members of the church unite in prayer and loving entreaty that the offender may be restored. The Holy Spirit will speak through His servants, pleading with the wanderer to return to God: “We pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20. He who rejects this united overture has broken the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself from the fellowship of the church. Henceforth, said Jesus, “Let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” But let him not be despised or neglected by his former brethren. Treat him with tenderness and compassion.HLv 299.1
If one neglects the duty Christ has enjoined, of trying to restore those who are in error and sin, he becomes a partaker in the sin. See Leviticus 19:17. For evils that we might have checked, we are just as responsible as if we were guilty of the acts ourselves.HLv 299.2
We are not to make the wrong a matter of comment and criticism among ourselves, nor to repeat it to others. While we seek to correct the errors of a brother, we will shield him as far as possible from the criticism of his own brethren, and how much more from the censure of the unbelieving world. As we wish Christ to deal with us, He bids us deal with one another. “Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:19. The issues of your work are for eternity!HLv 299.3
But we are not to bear this great responsibility alone. Wherever His word is obeyed with a sincere heart, there Christ abides. In the assemblies of the church and wherever disciples, however few, meet in His name, there also He will be. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.” While by His humanity Jesus is a sharer with His disciples in their trials and sympathizes with them in their sufferings, by His divinity He is connected with the throne of the Infinite.HLv 299.4
Wonderful assurance! All the power of heaven combines with human ability in drawing souls to Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 47, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 1
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the midst of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 8
Every one who will help these little ones is doing the will of God. “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones,” Christ declares, “it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:6.] It is a very serious matter to lay stumbling blocks in the way of others. Especially should we seek to keep the little ones in our own families, as far as possible, from the temptations of Satan.23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 10
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.” [Verses 7-9.]23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 12
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do alway behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost.” [Verses 10, 11.]23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 17
“How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 12-14.]23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 19
“Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he will hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verses 15-18.]23LtMs, Ms 47, 1908, par. 21
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 19, 20.]Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 47, 1908
2SAT 299.1
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the midst of the sea” [Matthew 18:1-6]2SAT 300.5
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire” [Matthew 18:7-9].2SAT 301.1
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost” [verses 10, 11].2SAT 301.7
“How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish” [verses 12, 13].2SAT 302.2
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he will hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” [verses 15-18].2SAT 302.3
If these directions were faithfully carried out whenever a brother or a sister is thought to be in wrong, there would be fewer church trials. God would be pleased to have His people cease to criticize their brethren one to another. We must come into unity with God and with one another. “Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them” [verses 19, 20].Matthew 18:1-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 53, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 53, 1905, par. 2
The disciples came to Christ with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Matthew 18:1-7.]20LtMs, Ms 53, 1905, par. 3
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Verses 15-17.]20LtMs, Ms 53, 1905, par. 4
“Then came Peter to Him, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but, Until seventy times seven.” [Verse 21.]Matthew 18:1-22
Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1536—How a Christian Should Treat Others
21MR 180.1
Christ has died to save souls, and those who wear the yoke with Him will be copartners with Him, and will act in a Christlike manner. When a soul is in spiritual danger and falls from error into sin, such an one will not push him away, drive him to take desperate positions, and discourage him in every effort he may make to recover himself. Peter asked, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven” [Matthew 18:21, 22]. This is to make manifest the fact that there is no limit to the forgiving love of Christ.21MR 180.4
We should take heed to the lessons which Christ has given to His disciples. The disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” [Matthew 18:1; verses 2-7, quoted]. The religion of the Bible is to guide the conduct of everyone who sincerely believes in Christ. The Bible must guide us in our dealings in daily life. We may make a profession of being followers of Christ, and yet if we are not doers of His Word we shall be like the counterfeit coin. We shall not have the right ring.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 16a, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 16a, 1895, par. 8
Christ has died to save souls, and those who wear the yoke with Him, will be co-partners with Him, and will act in a Christlike manner. When a soul is in spiritual danger, and falls from error into sin, such an one will not push him away, drive him to take desperate positions, and discourage him in every effort he may make to recover himself. Peter asked, “Lord, How often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but, Until seventy times seven.” [Matthew 18:21, 22.] This is to make manifest the fact that there is no limit to the forgiving love of Christ.10LtMs, Lt 16a, 1895, par. 10
We should take heed to the lessons which Christ has given to His disciples. The disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, and Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone be hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.” [Verses 1-7.]Matthew 18:1-34
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 11, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 39
“Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.” [Matthew 18:23, 24.] Here was one man in high position who had been entrusted with a vast amount of property. But upon an examination of his accounts he was found unfaithful; he owed his lord ten thousand talents. This, at the lowest computation, amounts to not less than fifteen million dollars. When the king saw the evidence of his servant’s unfaithfulness, he commanded him to be sold, with his wife and children, his house, his lands, and all that he had, that payment might be made. Alarm seized the unfaithful man as he saw the ruin before him, and he pleaded for delay: “Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.” [Verses 25, 26.] But his lord knew that he could never pay the debt. While the servant acknowledged the justice of the sentence against him, he begged for mercy. “Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.” [Verse 27.]5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 41
“The same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence; and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.” [Verses 28-30.]5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 44
This conduct grieved those who witnessed it, for they knew the whole story of his pardon, and they carried a complaint to the king. Then the king’s anger was stirred, and he ordered the man to come before him. “Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt because thou desiredst me: shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee?” and his lord delivered him to the jailer till he should pay all that was due. [Verses 31-34.]5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 48
On one occasion the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.] The little ones here referred to, who believe in Christ, are not those who are young in years but little children in Christ.5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 50
“And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which is lost.” [Verses 7-11.] Here the work of Christ is plainly presented, and it is a similar work His followers are expected to do. They must use their God-given talents “to save that which is lost.” It is not the saint but the sinner that needs compassion, the earnest labor, the persevering effort.5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 51
Weak and trembling souls, those who have many defects and objectionable traits of character, are the special charge of the angels of God. “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” [Verse 10.] If any injustice is done to them, it is the same as if done to Jesus Himself. Christ identifies His interest with that of the souls He has purchased at an infinite cost.5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 56
Jesus thus illustrates the work that devolves upon those who claim to believe on His name: “How think ye? If a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:12-14.]5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 61
Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, has laid down rules to prevent unhappy divisions, but how many of you in our churches or in our institutions have followed the directions of Christ? “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and”—tell it to every one you meet? [No!]—“tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word shall be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 63
Jesus adds to the lesson these words: “Verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verse 18.] This assurance—that after the rules of Christ have been followed to the letter, the decisions of the church will be ratified in heaven—gives a solemn significance to the action of the church. No hasty steps should be taken to cut off names from the church books or to place a member under censure until the case has been investigated and the Bible rule fully obeyed.5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 67
“Again I say unto you that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 19, 20.] Remember, there is a witness in every assembly, One who knows whether your thoughts are holy, kind, tender, and Christlike or whether they are hard, unkind, and satanic. A record of your words and your spirit and of the result of your course of action goes up to heaven. You cannot afford to be careless and inattentive in this matter.Matthew 18:1-35
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 26, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 26, 1889, par. 12
Our Saviour has said, “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them.” Matthew 18:19. Their prayers will be heard. Nothing can grieve the Spirit of God more than variance among those who are engaged as laborers in His vineyard because the same spirit they entertain is diffused among the churches. Such seed, once sown, is difficult to eradicate. It required time and labor and distress of soul to adjust things and bring in a state of harmony and peace. All heaven is laboring for the unity of the church, and the professed followers of Christ are working at cross purposes with God, because they will not heed His instruction but will bring in dissension.6LtMs, Ms 26, 1889, par. 17
This, I have been shown, is becoming quite general among the workers in the cause of God at this present time; and the Spirit of our Saviour is grieved, and the work hindered, because men who ought to be a blessing become a curse, to retard in the place of advancing the work. There is inward, concealed strife for the supremacy. There is manifest strife to be first in our ranks. The Lord cannot work, manifesting His power and His grace, until all this unsanctified element is cleansed from the soul temple. The Lord Jesus gives all professed Christians this lesson in Matthew 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 1, 1880
3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 10
And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:15-18.3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 61
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:1-14.3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 63
“Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” Matthew 18:23-35.3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 65
When we need grace constantly and forgiveness daily and mercy and compassion every moment of our existence, how unbecoming and out of place for Christians to be so ready to criticize, censure, and condemn their brethren of like passions with themselves. The reproof is here given by our Redeemer for all such conduct. Much of this spirit is the result of self-esteem and of self-exaltation, striving for the supremacy lest others shall come in and fill a place higher than ourselves. But the lessons given on these points are marked, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 3.] Meekness and humility must be cultivated continually in order to preserve the true spirit of Christianity.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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 40, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, par. 12
The whole of the eighteenth chapter of Matthew is a practical lesson. Will we hang it in the chambers of the mind, in memory’s hall, that we may oft read and ponder and obey the lesson so essential for us to practice and weave into our Christian experience?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 102, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 8
In the eighteenth of Matthew there is recorded another lesson on humility. These lessons in the Word are given for our admonition. Those who neglect to profit by them are inexcusable.19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 9
The disciples came “unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 1-4.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 11
“Whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Verses 5, 6.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 13
“Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh!” [Verse 7.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 15
“Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.” [Verse 8.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 17
“And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.” [Verse 9.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 22
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:10.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 24
The angels desire that we shall learn that “the Son of man came to save that which was lost.” [Verse 11] Christ came not to save that which is good and righteous, but “that which was lost.” Brethren and sisters, when you see a soul slipping away from the truth, and endangering his hope of eternal salvation, press close to his side, and seek to help him in every way you can. Inquire into his needs; pray with him; labor kindly, patiently with him; never despair of helping him.19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 26
“How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.” [Verses 12, 13.]19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 28
“Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verse 14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 31, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 31, 1905, par. 6
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:10.] Christ, the great Teacher, is not referring merely to those who are children in years, but to those who need care and protection in their religious experience. “The Son of man is come to seek and save that which is lost.” [Luke 19:10.]20LtMs, Lt 31, 1905, par. 8
“Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he will hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:12-20.]20LtMs, Lt 31, 1905, par. 10
“Then came Peter unto Him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but until seventy times seven.” [Verses 21, 22.]20LtMs, Lt 31, 1905, par. 12
Study the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. Print it in The Watchman. And may our Lord Jesus Christ give His grace to every member of His church, that they may all be established in His Word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 360, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 360, 1905, par. 15
I am to bear a straightforward testimony. Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Any semblance of self-glorying is an offense to God. He says to you, “When you declared to the world that the medical missionary work is undenominational, you sold yourself at a cheap, a very cheap market. Thus I have been greatly dishonored. My truth, My power, My favor you cast aside as a weariness. Repent, lest I cast you aside to share the fate of those who transgress My law, break My covenant, and despise My warnings. How long refuse ye to walk in My statutes and obey My laws? How long will ye weaken the hands of My ministers with your perversion of righteousness in your words and acts? I have sent message after message to restrain you from entering into the intrigues of satanic agencies. Think you they are standing by in indifference, taking no advantage of your course of action? Satan will hold you captive under his strategy, and your spiritual perceptions will become more and more blinded, unless you turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart and gain an understanding of the lesson given by Christ in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 159, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 159, 1905, par. 1
There are some things that are to be confessed to God alone. If you have wronged a brother or a sister, you have the light given you in the Word. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and to thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established. And if he neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]20LtMs, Lt 159, 1905, par. 2
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 19, 20.]20LtMs, Lt 159, 1905, par. 4
“Then came Peter unto Him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but until seventy times seven.” [Verses 21, 22.]20LtMs, Lt 159, 1905, par. 5
Read the whole of the eighteenth chapter of Matthew, and find in its instruction relief and courage and hope. Go forward in faith. Work right to the point. I advise you to take your case to the Lord Jesus in prayer. Believe that He hears you, and that when you confess your sins and repent, and walk humbly with God, you will find pardon. Act like one whom the Lord has corrected in order to purify and save you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 88, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 88, 1906, par. 7
Read carefully Matthew 18:15-17. Here is God’s rule laid down clearly. Will we obey it? It means much to live the Christian life in the home church, in the family. Brother Butler, let us urge greater spirituality. Let us pray that the converting power of God will come to the home workers. Tell our people to study the eighteenth chapter of Matthew.21LtMs, Lt 88, 1906, par. 9
“Then came Peter to Him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say unto thee, Not until seven times only; but, Until seventy times seven.” [Verses 21, 22.] There is forgiveness with God. Try to lead the sinner to remove personal wrongs, because he is to receive an education to prepare the faulty character to overcome through pursuing a right course. We must urge upon wrongdoers to become like Christ in this world, if they would have a welcome in that world that will not tolerate a sinner. Let us urge upon wrongdoers that God multiplies His pardons.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 126, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 126, 1906, par. 16
I will praise the Lord, for He has given me His Holy Spirit; and it is Thou, oh my Saviour, who canst soften the sluggish, sinful hearts and wake up the people. I thank Thee for the power of Thy Spirit that Thou dost give me to present Thy words. Matthew, chapter 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 19, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 19, 1897, par. 36
The disciples had often contended as to which of them should occupy the highest place of honor in the kingdom of God. Christ had given them special lessons, the most striking and positive of which is recorded in (Matthew 18): “At the same time came the disciples unto him, saying, Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.12LtMs, Ms 19, 1897, par. 37
“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso receiveth one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a mill stone were hanged about his neck, and he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Verses 1-6.] Yet again and again these lessons had to be repeated. The Lord had assured them that His kingdom was not of this world, but it was difficult for His disciples to be set right on this point.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 40, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15
The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 51, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 51, 1898, par. 12
Please read the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. The whole chapter should be an eye opener. “Take heed,” said Christ, “that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 10-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 70, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 70, 1898, par. 15
“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” [Matthew 24:14.] In the parable recorded in (Matthew 18), Christ has shown His readiness to leave the flock that was gathered into the fold, and go out into the mountains to seek the lost, straying sheep. He rejoices more over one sinner that repents than over the ninety and nine just persons who need no repentance. “All things are delivered unto me of my Father,” He declared. [Matthew 11:27.] “All things that the Father hath are mine.” [John 16:15.] “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:18.] This power Christ is ready to transfer to those who will co-operate with Him in self-denial and self-sacrifice. We must open a way whereby this class of education shall be taken hold of during the remainder of this school term. The students must be given special opportunities to learn how to do missionary work, that they may place themselves in the channel of light to receive and impart light. They must make known the truth that has made them children of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 51b, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 51b, 1898, par. 16
Let us study the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. This chapter should enlighten our eyes. “Take heed,” Christ [said], “that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye, If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which was gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 10-14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 89, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 1
In the 18th chapter of Matthew Christ gave to His disciples most precious lessons in regard to the organization and order of the church which was being established. To the question of the disciples, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus “called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. ... And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. And whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Verses 1-3, 5, 6.]13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 2
We should read carefully the lesson that follows in verses 7-14. “Moreover,” Christ continued, “if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear thee, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto thee, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verses 15-18.]13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 4
Christ is the Instructor of His people. He would have them sit at His feet as little children and learn the lessons that are so essential for them to know. “Verily I say unto you,” He said, “Except ye be converted and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 3, 4.]13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 7
That which finite beings call a success is often a decided failure because men lift up their souls unto vanity. Spiritual pride is a great evil in the church. Unless God is sought in prayer, unless His converting grace comes to the soul, there will be no inclination to oppose Satan’s wily representations. The truly great are those who reveal the least disposition to exalt themselves, who have the most patient trust in God, and make Him their fear and their dependence. It is God alone who is to be exalted. He alone, through His Son, Jesus Christ, can put enmity between man and Satan. To man He says: “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 3.] It is an impossibility for man in his own strength to merit at the hands of God the righteousness of Christ. A curse is pronounced against those who trust in man, and make flesh their arm. If they do this, they will surely be disappointed.13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 8
“Again I say unto you,” Christ continued, “That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 19, 20.] Precious promise!13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 15
“But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence, and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, and said, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not, but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt because thou desiredst me: shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee? and his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” [Matthew 18:21-35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 143, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 143, 1899, par. 1
When the disciples were disputing together as to which should be greatest in the kingdom of heaven, Christ called a little child to him, and set him in the midst of them and said, “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which shall believe in me, it were better that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offenses, for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe unto that may be whom the offense cometh!” [Matthew 18:2-7.]14LtMs, Ms 143, 1899, par. 6
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones,” Christ said, “for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father. ... How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and go into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more over that sheep than over the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:10, 12-14.]14LtMs, Ms 143, 1899, par. 7
Christ came to this world, all seared and marred with the curse, that He might meet humanity and work for humanity, uplifting the degraded and fallen and outcast. Let us study this eighteenth chapter of Matthew, that we may learn how to practice this lesson of Christ, for it we do not bring it into our practical lives we shall never enter into the kingdom of heaven. It is the masterly spirit to lord it over God’s heritage that is closing the gates of heaven to men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 1, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 1, 1899, par. 7
The light given me is that the Lord would have blessed us in being firmly united in our work, but that night in Stanmore I was surprised that a woman who claimed so much knowledge as a teacher, and who felt no hesitancy in becoming matron and preceptress of the school at Avondale, should have so little understanding in regard to the instruction in Matthew 18. Cautions were given me; the attitude of you both made it impossible for us to desire to connect with you in our labor. The principles you work upon are not right. God cannot commend your spirit or your course of action. Did you both feel that it would be a credit for you to show no respect for W. C. White, my son? He does not put himself forward; he does not seek the highest place, but he has been willing to take almost any position in order to help, strengthen, and bless others. The Lord has given him his work ever since he was a little lad, and the Lord has been working with him, but because he has not in everything coincided with all your plans, you have a grudge against him. You say you cannot harmonize with him. If there was more of Christ and less of self abiding in your souls, your attitude would change.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 107a, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 107a, 1900, par. 2
I then set the situation before them of dissension, of self-esteem, and self-exaltation, and the strife to be highly esteemed by men. I poured out upon them the Word of the Lord, “It is written” (Matthew 18) [in] plain, decided, clear-cut words. There was not any daubing with untempered mortar. Will you please to read the Word of the Lord to any one who shall begin their criticism and faultfinding, and tell them that is expressly the work of the devil. He began that work in the heavenly courts and obtained sympathy that he could do most wonderful things if he was not hampered by the law of Jehovah. He would suggest things, present it to the heavenly angels, and then they, supposing he was in harmony with God and the Prince of heaven, would express assent to the words spoken: that a change might be made in the government of God which would work for the great advantage of the heavenly family.15LtMs, Lt 107a, 1900, par. 4
Read and search the Word of God and, after reading (Matthew 18), trace out the cause of disaffection and its evil consequences. I now state before you that not one word of the state of things in New Zealand has Brother Farnsworth mentioned to me. A letter was received from Brother Baker making statements of the difficulties that were coming up in New Zealand. Then I knew because the light had been given me in reference to these things.Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1374—Bear Witness to Christ Before the World; How to Conduct the Christian Warfare
19MR 107.2
There is a wealth of instruction for us in Matthew 18. And let us give heed to the words of Paul to the Philippian brethren: “Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them as evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake” [Philippians 1:27-29].—Letter 7, 1895.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 34, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 2
We are all workers for the Master. The instruction given in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew shows how His work is to be done. Self is to be kept under the control of the great Teacher. Study your Bibles. I have been charged to tell you all to study your Bibles with an intense interest! Practice its teachings. When this is done, less human wisdom will be seen and more of the wisdom of God. A large amount of time and strength will be saved.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 29, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 29, 1900, par. 30
In every place where the apostle Paul was called to go after his conversion, he gave a vivid presentation of the ministration of heavenly angels in his conversion. The Lord calls upon those who bear the name of Christ to cooperate with Him. This is a real, genuine union in ministerial service. Church members who have had light upon the truth must be converted and become Christians in practice. They must obey the truth, else they will become Satan’s vigilant church-workers, to annoy and perplex those who are weak in the faith. Christ and His angels are at work, and what are we as individuals doing? Read the message from the lips of Christ in (Matthew 18) and Luke 15:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 37a, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 37a, 1900, par. 20
I long, I pray, I thirst, to see the work of God manifest itself in deeds of compassion, tenderness, and love. Then all who are in places of responsibility in the publishing work in any line will feel a deep interest in the youth. They will feel the need of most earnest prayer with all the apprentices together. Then in the educating and training of the youth all will bear in mind that these youth are the property of Jesus Christ. Read the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. If ever words should be put in daily practice it is the words spoken by Christ to His disciples. Many are the educating lessons, lessons of high and holy principles, that need to be brought into the daily, practical life.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 15 (1900)
Lt 48a, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 48a, 1900, par. 4
Now, my dear brother, can you think of preaching the Word of God when you imagine so many things that have no foundation? You are in no fit state to go into Dunedin. You need to stop just where you are, take yourself in hand, and reprimand yourself by the discipline of the Word. Your phase of character has been several times presented to me, and unless you are daily humbling yourself before God in the work of the ministry, you will be brought to a most severe experience, such as you have not yet had. The Lord will leave you to yourself, and this is the worst calamity that can happen to a man that has so high an idea of his capabilities. My message to you is, Do not attempt to enter upon any work in the ministration of the Word until you have overcome the temptations which you have entertained and receive the lessons of Christ. [Read] (Matthew 18) and practice these lessons as a learner in the school of Christ.15LtMs, Lt 48a, 1900, par. 6
In these moods you are not fit to open the Scriptures to others, and whenever this phase of soul-sickness comes, stop just where you are and severely chastise yourself. Humble yourself. Read (Matthew 18), for in this Christ is speaking to you. All of Christ’s words are for you, but you allow yourself to retain the defects of your childhood, and you give these defects great respect as though they were virtues. “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore, shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. ... But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which shall believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Verses 2-4, 6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 64, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 64, 1900, par. 2
Read the instruction given in the eighteen chapter of Matthew. There is nothing more positive than this in all the oracles of God; and yet God is dishonored and His cause marred by the doing of the wrongs pointed out in this chapter. These words are for you and for me and for all who claim to be disciples of the meek and lowly Jesus. He shows us the principles upon which we are to act in all cases and under all circumstances. There is to be no striving for the supremacy. Christ teaches that in His spiritual kingdom it is not position, not outward splendor or authority that constitutes greatness, but spiritual excellence manifested in true conversion.15LtMs, Lt 64, 1900, par. 9
“The disciples came unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:1-4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 93, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 93, 1901, par. 2
If you could see the result of always occupying the negative side, as you have done for years to a greater or less extent, you would have a better understanding of the words of the Saviour, recorded in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. The disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” [Verses 1-7.]16LtMs, Lt 93, 1901, par. 3
My brother, cast away all evil thinking. Humble your heart before God. Then, your eyes being opened, you will no longer stand on the negative side. “If thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.” [Verse 8.] Cut away your defective attributes, however painful to human nature it may be to do this. “And if thine eye”—so sharp to see something to criticize or oppose—“offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.” [Verse 9.]16LtMs, Lt 93, 1901, par. 4
Then comes the precious instruction: “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Verses 10-14.] The “little ones” are Christ’s disciples, changed in views and character. Meek and lowly in heart, docile and submissive, they are as little children.General Conference Daily Bulletin
January 29, 1893
GCDB January 29, 1893, par. 23
The Lord has continued to give light from time to time in regard to the importance of maintaining order. Reproofs and warnings have been given to those who started out to labor according to their own judgment, feeling that they were amenable to no one, and having no regard to the general interest of the cause of God. Physicians who practiced among the churches have been reproved for their course in establishing themselves wherever they pleased, and working according to their own judgment from a selfish stand-point. I have been shown that physicians who practice in our churches should come under the supervision of the churches as fully as the minister. If they do not maintain strict integrity, it is the duty of the churches to labor with them according to the instruction of the word of God. And the direction that Christ has given in Matthew 18 concerning our duty to those who fall into error and sin reveals the fact that there is to be thorough organization in the church.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 58, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 58, 1901, par. 18
Into the sacred work of God you have brought harshness and a lack of courtesy, dealing with God’s children in a severe, dictatorial manner, when an entirely different course would have been proper. In the business meetings you have attended you have <sometimes> so exasperated your brethren that they have lost all confidence in you as a Christian gentleman. Will you study your Bible? Will you read out of God’s Word His will concerning you? Study carefully the eighteenth chapter of Matthew.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 26, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 26, 1902, par. 35
“Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.]17LtMs, Ms 26, 1902, par. 36
Some minds are so constituted that they delight and find in others a spot or stain that they can report. Is this the work that the Lord has appointed us to do?—No, never! He has told us how to deal with the erring. “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee,” He has said, “go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: ... if he shall not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Verses 15-17.]17LtMs, Ms 26, 1902, par. 40
If the one who speaks disparagingly of another would go to the person whom he has criticized and manifest a desire to heal and not to tear to pieces, the whole matter might be explained and it be shown that there is nothing from which such conclusions could be reached. Would it not be more Christlike to go to the one whom you suppose to be in error and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother”? [Matthew 18:15.] Thus you may hide a multitude of sins. To hide a fault does not mean to spread far and wide a hearsay report before going to the one under suspicion and asking him all about it.17LtMs, Ms 26, 1902, par. 42
Let every church member sign a pledge, in the presence of God and his brethren, that he will strictly obey the rules that Christ has given. Let those who claim to be converted read the eighteenth of Matthew, and then consider what the Lord expects of them in manifesting practical obedience.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 29, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 29, 1902, par. 17
The eighteenth chapter of Matthew contains a most important lesson given by Christ to us all. “At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But who so shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Verses 1-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 61, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 2
In dealing with erring church members, we should carefully follow the instruction of our Saviour as recorded in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. No church officer should advise, no committee should recommend, nor should any church vote to strike from the church books the name of a wrongdoer before the instruction given by the Lord has been faithfully followed.17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 3
“If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established.” [Verses 15, 16.]17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 9
“If thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” [Matthew 18:15, 16.] Great care should be taken not to cast reproach on one who is not guilty.17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 10
“And if he neglect to hear them,” what then shall be done? Shall a few persons in a board meeting take upon them the responsibility of separating the erring one from the church? “If he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church.” [Verse 17.] Let the matter be brought before the church. Let the church take action with regard to its members.17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 11
“And if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Verse 17.] If the erring one will not heed the voice of the church, if he refuses all the efforts made to reclaim him, upon the church rests the responsibility of separating him from church fellowship. His name should then be struck off the church books. His relatives and friends may not be willing to take action in the matter. This unwillingness to do right is not wisdom. They should not place themselves on the side of the wrongdoer if he refuses to change his course.17LtMs, Ms 61, 1902, par. 13
“Verily I say unto you,” Christ continued, “Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Matthew 18:18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 202, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 202, 1902, par. 7
I ask you to study carefully the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. Pray earnestly for grace, and then prepare your hearts to receive the answer to your prayer. Study Christ’s lessons on sowing and reaping. They teach us plainly that as we sow, so we must reap.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 166, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 166, 1902, par. 32
When these matters are revealed to me, I cannot sleep. Night after night I am in deep distress of mind. Our people, both ministers and lay members, are not prepared to understand Christ’s lesson as recorded in the eighteenth of Matthew. When the disciples came to Jesus with the question, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He “called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 1-4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 230, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 230, 1902, par. 52
Christ says, in the 18th chapter of Matthew, that the (little ones, He calls them,) well, they are little ones in the faith, as well as little children. He takes a child, and sets it in the midst.17LtMs, Ms 230, 1902, par. 57
Christ would gather the lilies of the field and put them in the hands of the little children. Some have said, “No one ever saw Christ smile.” It is not true. It is not true. Christ would gather little children in His arms, and they would fall asleep against His great heart of love. He would look upon them, and His countenance smiled. He would smile at the children, and they would catch the smile, and they would run after Him. They would pick the little flowers, and carry them to Christ, and make their little offering to Him. Oh, why destroy the simplicity of the child? Now, said Christ, “Their angels do always behold the face of your Father which is in heaven.” He says, “Don’t you offend them. It were better for you that a millstone was hanged about your neck, and you cast into the depths of the sea, than to offend one of these little ones.” [Matthew 18:10, 6.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 18:1
The Review and Herald
May 18, 1876
RH May 18, 1876, par. 4
At 2 P.M. I read Matthew 18:1. I dwelt especially upon the necessity of humbling ourselves before God, and having our minds withdrawn from self, in sympathy and love for others. Especially should we engage in personal effort for those out of Christ. When self shall be submerged in Christ, then shall we walk in humbleness of mind, simplicity, and unselfishness, doing others good. It requires a thorough conversion to follow Jesus closely, a singleness of purpose, a purity of motive.