EGW WritingsMatthew 18

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 1c, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 1

I have a few words to say to you, my brethren, in reference to the subject we were recently conversing about. I have had no conversation with Brother Rogers; for I have felt that it is best for those who are at variance to follow the Bible directions. The Saviour has said, “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 go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “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.” Matthew 18:15. This kind of work requires the grace of Christ in the heart. There is alienation and division where none should exist—among those who profess to be the children of God; and the reason for this is that men are hearers, readers of the words of Christ, but not doers.

6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 2

How much suffering might be prevented if those who claim to know and believe the truth would practice its precepts. In living out the lessons of Jesus, we make it manifest that we are not careless, inattentive, unfruitful hearers of the word. If those who claim to be followers of Christ were only obedient to the truth, the door that is now open, where Satan enters to wound and bruise the soul, would be closed. How careful we should be not to offend one of the little ones that belong to God! The Saviour said, “It is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:14.

6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 4

When brethren come together in harmony with the directions of Christ, Jesus Himself is a witness to the scene, and the whole universe looks with intense interest upon those who not only believe, but do the words of Christ. The Spirit of God will move upon the heart of him who has erred, when Christ’s words are carried out, and the one at fault will be convicted of his error. But if he is too proud, too self-sufficient, to confess his mistake and heal the wrong, other steps are to be taken in order to follow out the complete directions of the Word. “But if he will not hear thee, (in that private interview) then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Matthew 18:16. The matter of difficulty is to be confined to as small a number as possible. But two or three are to labor with the one who is in error. They should not only talk with him, but bow in prayer, and with humble hearts seek the Lord.

6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 5

“And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church, but if he neglect to hear the church,”—if he persists in his unreasonable course and will not be corrected, then there is only one more step to be taken and that is a very sorrowful one—“Let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” Matthew 18:17. “Verily I say unto you, whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:18. When every specification which Christ has given has been carried out in the true Christian spirit, then and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ, and do as He would do were He upon the earth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 103, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 103, 1894, par. 4

Shall we who have been sought for when we were lost forget how God has dealt with us? Shall we forget the wonderful compassion of a merciful God, and refuse to be kind and merciful to children and youth? The story of the ungrateful debtor is presented before us to represent the difference between the way in which the compassionate lord dealt with a debtor and the way the debtor treated one who owed him a few pence. “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.” [Matthew 18:15.] Those who receive forgiveness from God must enter into the spirit of forgiveness. Unless those who seek forgiveness from God, are willing to give the same treatment to others, they cannot be forgiven. God will deal with them as they deal with their brethren. Shall we to whom the Lord has shown mercy work on the principles of strict justice? Some have done, and many are still doing, as the man in the parable did. The Lord does not limit his grace to the sinner who is seeking his forgiveness and love; but when the sinner receives of God’s unlimited grace, richly and freely given, it should result in lowliness of mind in the recipient. The man who is forgiven of God should not be found putting forth the finger and speaking vanity. He should not be found putting down the others in oppression, and lifting up himself. In meekness and lowliness of mind, we should receive the heavenly gift, realizing that we are debtors to God, and in gratitude reflecting upon others the mercy bestowed upon us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 65, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 65, 1902, par. 8

“When you saw defects in your brother, how honorable it would have been to go to him alone, and faithfully, in tenderness and love, try to show him his errors. Those who refuse to take heed to Christ’s words, ‘Tell him his fault between thee and him alone’ [Matthew 18:15], show that they think unjustly, and that they are themselves deficient.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 23, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 6

I entreat the members of our churches not to make the work more trying than it necessarily is by watching one another for a word or an act upon which to comment unfavorably. Let them, if a report is brought to them about someone, make it a rule to do just as Christ has said should be done in such cases. Let them follow the counsel of the great Teacher who gave His life for the life of the world. His directions are plain. “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 go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Without delay make every effort to heal the wrong that exists. Do not, by speaking unwise words, give the enemy opportunity to arouse suspicion and evil surmising in the mind of your brother. Be determined to do all in your power to make the wrong right. Do not tell to a third person the story of the difficulty. Go directly to the one who has erred, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Go to him, not to condemn, but to seek for reconciliation, because Christ has told you to love one another as He has loved you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 29, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 7

His directions are plain. “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 go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Without delay make every effort to heal the wrong that exists. Do not, by speaking unwise words, give the enemy opportunity to arouse suspicion and evil surmising in the mind of your brother. Be determined to do all in your power to make the wrong right. Do not tell to a third person the story of the difficulty. Go directly to the one who has erred, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Go to him, not to condemn, but to seek for reconciliation, because Christ has told you to love one another as He has loved you.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Parents to Strengthen the Teacher’s Hands

CT 154.1

There are church members who have been quick to catch up unkind suppositions and to speak disparagingly of the teacher before other church members and even in the presence of the children. Some have talked freely and bitterly concerning a teacher without clearly understanding the difficulty of which they were speaking. This should not be. The one who thinks that a teacher has done wrong should follow the directions given in the word: “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Matthew 18:15. Until this has been done, no one is justified in telling others of a brother’s mistakes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 22, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 22, 1904, par. 4

This should not be. Let the one who thinks that a teacher has done wrong follow the directions that Christ has given. He says, “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between him and thee alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Until you have done this, you are not justified in telling others of your brother’s mistakes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 111a, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, par. 18

The Saviour’s life is before us. It is our pattern. In all that we do, we are to seek the good of others. We are not to speak ill, but well of one another. When mistakes are made, these are not to be made the object of general conversation. Christ’s direction is, “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, and ye shall be healed.” [James 5:16.]

In Heavenly Places

Dealing With Evil Reports, October 12

HP 292.1

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. Matthew 18:15.

That I May Know Him

How to Settle Your Troubles, June 24

TMK 181.1

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. Matthew 18:15.

The Upward Look

Live in Union With Christ, April 2

UL 106.2

“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” (Matthew 18:15). This is the way in which misunderstandings are to be settled. Speaking alone, and in the spirit of Christ to the one who is in fault, will often remove the difficulty. Show Christlike love for your brother by seeking to adjust the difficulty “between thee and him alone.” Talk quietly together. Let no angry words escape your lips. Present the subject in a way that will appeal to his best judgment. And if he will hear you, you have gained him as a friend.

This Day With God

Rectifying Wrong, April 6

TDG 105.1

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. Matthew 18:15.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Church Discipline

3TT 200.3

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,” Christ declared, “go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Matthew 18:15. Do not tell others of the wrong. One person is told, then another, and still another; and continually the report grows, and the evil increases, till the whole church is made to suffer. Settle the matter “between thee and him alone.” This is God’s plan. “Go not forth hastily to strife, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbor hath put thee to shame. Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and discover not a secret to another.” Proverbs 25:8, 9. Do not suffer sin upon your brother; but do not expose him, and thus increase the difficulty, making the reproof seem like a revenge. Correct him in the way outlined in the word of God.

From the Heart

Winning Back the Erring, February 5

FH 48.1

If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. Matthew 18:15.

Homeward Bound

Dealing With an Offender, August 17

HB 254.2

If he will not hear them [see Matthew 18:15, 16], 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.) Anyone 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 brothers and sisters in the church, but be treated with tenderness and compassion, as one of the lost sheep that Christ is still seeking to bring to His fold.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 281, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 281, 1905, par. 21

“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.” [Matthew 18:15, 16.]

Counsels for the Church

Christ’s Methods in Church Discipline

CCh 256.2

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,” Christ declared, “go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Matthew 18:15. Do not tell others of the wrong. One person is told, then another, and still another; and continually the report grows, and the evil increases, till the whole church is made to suffer. Settle the matter “between thee and him alone.” This is God’s plan. “Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbor hath put thee to shame. Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and discover not a secret to another.” Proverbs 25:8, 9. Do not suffer sin upon your brother; but do not expose him, and thus increase the difficulty, making the reproof seem like a revenge. Correct him in the way outlined in the Word of God.

CCh 257.2

“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.” Matthew 18:16. Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one in error in regard to the wrong. He may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As he sees their agreement in the matter, his mind may be enlightened.

CCh 257.3

“And if he shall neglect to hear them,” what then shall be done? Shall a few persons in a board meeting take upon themselves the responsibility of disfellowshiping the erring one? “If he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church.” Verse 17. Let the church take action in regard to its members.

CCh 257.4

“But if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” Verse 17. If he 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 fellowship. His name should then be stricken from the books.463Testimonies for the Church 7:260-262

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 30, 1868

1LtMs, Lt 30, 1868, par. 6

If, Jenny, you are grieved because your neighbors or friends are doing wrong to their own hurt, if they are overtaken in fault, follow the Bible rule. “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] As you go to the one you suppose to be in fault, see that you speak in a meek and lowly spirit, for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. The erring can in no other way be restored than in the spirit of meekness and gentleness and tender love. Be careful in your manner of speaking. Avoid everything in look or gesture, word or tone of voice, that savors of pride or self-sufficiency. Guard yourself against word or look that would exalt yourself or set your goodness and righteousness in contrast to their failings. Beware of the most distant approach to disdain, overbearing, or contempt. With care, avoid every appearance of anger, and though you use plainness of speech, yet let there be no reproach, no railing accusation, no token of warmth, but that of earnest love.

1LtMs, Lt 30, 1868, par. 8

You have excused yourself for speaking evil of your brother or sister or neighbor to others, before going to them first and taking the steps the Lord has absolutely commanded you, in this way, “Why, I did not speak to anyone until I was so burdened that I could not refrain.” What burdened you? Was it your own neglect of a plain duty? of a thus saith the Lord? You were under the guilt of sin, because you did not “go tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Verse 15.] If you did not do this, if you disobeyed God, how should you be otherwise than burdened, unless your heart was burdened while you were trampling the command of God underfoot, and hating your brother or neighbor in your heart. And what way have you found to unburden yourself? God reproves you for a sin of omission, not telling your brother or sister their fault; and you excuse yourself under His censure by a sin of commission, by telling your brother’s faults to another person! Is this the right way to purchase ease—by committing sin?

1LtMs, Lt 30, 1868, par. 11

Resolutely refuse to hear, though the whisperer complain of being burdened till he speak. Burdened, indeed, with a cursed secret which separateth very friends. Go, burdened ones, and be delivered of your burden in God’s appointed way. First go tell thy brother between thee and him alone. If this fail, next take with thee one or two friends and tell him in their presence; if this does not prove a success, if these steps fail, then tell it to the church. Not an unbeliever is to be made acquainted with a particle of the matter. “Tell it to the church” is the last step taken. [Matthew 18:17.] Publish it not to the enemies of our faith. They have no right to the knowledge of church matters, lest the weakness and errors of Christ’s followers be exposed.

Testimony for the Church — No. 15

Sketch of Experience

T15 6.3

Her husband seemed to feel unreconciled to my bringing out her faults before the church, and stated that if Sister White had followed the directions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17, he should not have felt hurt—“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if be 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.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 92, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 92, 1893, par. 8

Also in Matthew 18:15-17. “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.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 32, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 32, 1902, par. 16

In the Word of God we are given plain direction as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says, “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.” [Matthew 18:15-17.] And in the sermon on the mount the Saviour says, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there remember that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 215, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 215, 1902, par. 5

“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 a heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 167a, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 167a, 1902, par. 29

Christ has told us plainly how we are to deal with those whom we think have injured us. “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. 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 a heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 168, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 168, 1902, par. 2

Hear what Christ has said regarding this matter: “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] And He says 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.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]

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

MR No. 890—Counsels to A. T. Jones

11MR 208.4

[Matthew 5:23, 24; 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:9, 10; Romans 1:16-18; 2 John 1:9-12, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 48, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, par. 25

“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.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 15—A Neglected Warning

8T 84.2

In the word of God we are given plain directions as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says: “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.” And again the Saviour says: “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 go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23, 24.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 1—Sketch of Experience

2T 15.1

Her husband seemed to feel unreconciled to my bringing out her faults before the church and stated that if Sister White had followed the directions of our Lord in Matthew 18:15-17 he should not have felt hurt: “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.”

Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903

Chapter 8—A Neglected Warning

PH151 44.2

In the word of God we are given plain directions as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says: “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.” And again the Saviour says, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23, 24.

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

The Tour of Northeastern New York State

1BIO 290.1

First, leading brethren have erred, which has lessened confidence and has had a scattering, saddening influence; and second, brethren have not always taken a scriptural course [Matthew 18:15-17] relative to little differences of opinion, and little trials arising among them.—Ibid.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Judge Not

3TT 229.2

In the word of God we are given plain directions as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says: “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.” And again the Saviour says: “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 go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23, 24.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 29—Lawsuits and Sexual Looseness Challenged

TT 162.1

Another grave evil was that of brethren going to law against one another. Christ Himself had given instruction as to how such matters were to be adjusted: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church.” Matthew 18:15-17, RSV.

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

Lt 4, 1852

I saw that individuals when they returned from Fairhaven, did not return right, and Bro. Chamberlain encouraged the church meeting that was held in Boston,6

The exact date of the Boston church meeting is not known, but from the description given here appears to have been held in early March 1852.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 52—Church Discipline

7T 260.3

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,” Christ declared, “go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Matthew 18:15. Do not tell others of the wrong. One person is told, then another, and still another; and continually the report grows, and the evil increases, till the whole church is made to suffer. Settle the matter “between thee and him alone.” This is God’s plan. “Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbor hath put thee to shame. Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and discover not a secret to another.” Proverbs 25:8, 9. Do not suffer sin upon your brother; but do not expose him, and thus increase the difficulty, making the reproof seem like a revenge. Correct him in the way outlined in the word of God.

7T 262.2

“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.” Matthew 18:16. Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one in error in regard to the wrong. He may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As he sees their agreement in the matter, his mind may be enlightened.

7T 262.3

“And if he shall neglect to hear them,” what then shall be done? Shall a few persons in a board meeting take upon themselves the responsibility of disfellowshiping the erring one? “If he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church.” Verse 17. Let the church take action in regard to its members.

7T 262.4

“But if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” Verse 17. If he 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 fellowship. His name should then be stricken from the books.

7T 263.2

“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.” Verse 18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 19, 1887

5LtMs, Lt 19, 1887, par. 3

Achan stole and dissembled, and his sin was charged upon the whole camp of Israel. He knew that when he took the golden wedge and the Babylonish garment he was acting contrary to the command of the God of Israel. The Lord had said, “And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed.” [Joshua 6:18.] If matters of difficulty between brethren are not laid open together, but frankly spoken of between themselves in the spirit of Christian love, the difficulty would in nearly every case be healed and the brother won. Misunderstandings have arisen that have been thus explained in Christian tenderness, and the breach has been healed. When brethren come together in harmony with the directions of Christ, Jesus Himself is the witness of the scenes, and the whole universe looks with intense interest upon the man who not only believes, but does the word of Christ. The Spirit of God will move upon the heart of him who has erred, when Christ’s words are carried out, and the one at fault will be convicted of his error. But if he is too proud, too self-sufficient to confess the wrong, others are to be taken in order to follow out the complete directions of the Word. “But if he will not hear thee (in that private interview), take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.” [Matthew 18:15, 16.] The matter of difficulty is to be confined to as small a number as possible. But two or three are to labor with the one who is in error. They should not only talk with him, but bow in prayer, and with humble hearts seek the Lord.

5LtMs, Lt 19, 1887, par. 4

“And if he shall neglect to hear, then tell it unto the church, but if he neglect to hear the church”—if he persists in his unreasonable course, and will not be corrected—then there is only one more step to be taken, and that is a very sorrowful one—“let him be unto thee as a heathen and a publican.” [Verse 17.] “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.] When every specification which Christ has given has been carried out in the true Christian spirit, then, and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ and do as He would have done had He been here. Brethren, it must be made manifest that we are not only Bible readers, but doers of the words of Christ. Those who fully trust in the Lord Jesus will be obedient children and will have guidance from above. The mind and will of God are made plain in the living oracles.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Church Discipline

GW 498.1

In dealing with erring church-members, God’s people are carefully to follow the instruction given by the Saviour in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. [See Matthew 18:15-18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 162, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 162, 1902, par. 25

One of the commands which Christ has given is that which relates to our duty toward the erring. “If thy brother trespass against thee,” the Saviour declares, “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.” [Matthew 18:15-18.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]

MR No. 324—The Church and Its Mission

5MR 296.2

I was referred to Hebrews 13:17: “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13: “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” Matthew 18:15-18: “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 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.”

Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]

Mr No. 720—Discipline of sda Church Members

9MR 194.4

“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 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).

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 29—A Message of Warning and Entreaty

AA 304.1

Another grave evil that had arisen in the church was that of brethren going to law against one another. Abundant provision had been made for the settlement of difficulties among believers. Christ Himself had given plain instruction as to how such matters were to be adjusted. “If thy brother shall trespass against thee,” the Saviour had counseled, “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 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.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 5, 1863

1LtMs, Lt 5, 1863, par. 5

I was referred to Hebrews 13:17. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13. “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” Matthew 18:15-18. “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.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 149, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 149, 1897, par. 9

Christ has given rules for the guidance of His church. “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.” [Matthew 18:15-18.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 19—The Measure of Forgiveness

COL 243.1

Peter had come to Christ with the question, “How oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?” The rabbis limited the exercise of forgiveness to three offenses. Peter, carrying out, as he supposed, the teaching of Christ, thought to extend it to seven, the number signifying perfection. But Christ taught that we are never to become weary of forgiving. Not “Until seven times,” He said, “but, Until seventy times seven.”

COL 243.2

Then He showed the true ground upon which forgiveness is to be granted and the danger of cherishing an unforgiving spirit. In a parable He told of a king’s dealing with the officers who administered the affairs of his government. Some of these officers were in receipt of vast sums of money belonging to the state. As the king investigated their administration of this trust, there was brought before him one man whose account showed a debt to his lord for the immense sum of ten thousand talents. He had nothing to pay, and according to the custom, the king ordered him to be sold, with all that he had, that payment might be made. But the terrified man fell at his feet and besought him, saying, “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.

COL 244.1

“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.”

COL 244.2

This parable presents details which are needed for the filling out of the picture but which have no counterpart in its spiritual significance. The attention should not be diverted to them. Certain great truths are illustrated, and to these our thought should be given.

COL 244.3

The pardon granted by this king represents a divine forgiveness of all sin. Christ is represented by the king, who, moved with compassion, forgave the debt of his servant. Man was under the condemnation of the broken law. He could not save himself, and for this reason Christ came to this world, clothed His divinity with humanity, and gave His life, the just for the unjust. He gave Himself for our sins, and to every soul He freely offers the blood-bought pardon. “With the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption.” Psalm 130:7.

COL 245.1

Here is the ground upon which we should exercise compassion toward our fellow sinners. “If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:11. “Freely ye have received,” Christ says, “freely give.” Matthew 10:8.

COL 245.2

In the parable, when the debtor pleaded for delay, with the promise, “Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all,” the sentence was revoked. The whole debt was canceled. And he was soon given an opportunity to follow the example of the master who had forgiven him. Going out, he met a fellow servant who owed him a small sum. He had been forgiven ten thousand talents; the debtor owed him a hundred pence. But he who had been so mercifully treated, dealt with his fellow laborer in an altogether different manner. His debtor made an appeal similar to that which he himself had made to the king, but without a similar result. He who had so recently been forgiven was not tenderhearted and pitiful. The mercy shown him he did not exercise in dealing with his fellowservant. He heeded not the request to be patient. The small sum owed to him was all that the ungrateful servant would keep in mind. He demanded all that he thought his due, and carried into effect a sentence similar to that which had been so graciously revoked for him.

COL 245.3

How many are today manifesting the same spirit. When the debtor pleaded with his lord for mercy, he had no true sense of the greatness of his debt. He did not realize his helplessness. He hoped to deliver himself. “Have patience with me,” he said, “and I will pay thee all.” So there are many who hope by their own works to merit God’s favor. They do not realize their helplessness. They do not accept the grace of God as a free gift, but are trying to build themselves up in self-righteousness. Their own hearts are not broken and humbled on account of sin, and they are exacting and unforgiving toward others. Their own sins against God, compared with their brother’s sins against them, are as ten thousand talents to one hundred pence—nearly one million to one; yet they dare to be unforgiving.

COL 247.1

In the parable the lord summoned the unmerciful debtor, and “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,” said Jesus, “shall My Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” He who refuses to forgive is thereby casting away his own hope of pardon.

COL 247.2

But the teaching of this parable should not be misapplied. God’s forgiveness toward us lessens in no wise our duty to obey Him. So the spirit of forgiveness toward our fellow men does not lessen the claim of just obligation. In the prayer which Christ taught His disciples He said, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Matthew 6:12. By this He did not mean that in order to be forgiven our sins we must not require our just dues from our debtors. If they cannot pay, even though this may be the result of unwise management, they are not to be cast into prison, oppressed, or even treated harshly; but the parable does not teach us to encourage indolence. The word of God declares that if a man will not work, neither shall he eat. (2 Thessalonians 3:10.) The Lord does not require the hard-working man to support others in idleness. With many there is a waste of time, a lack of effort, which brings to poverty and want. If these faults are not corrected by those who indulge them, all that might be done in their behalf would be like putting treasure into a bag with holes. Yet there is an unavoidable poverty, and we are to manifest tenderness and compassion toward those who are unfortunate. We should treat others just as we ourselves, in like circumstances, would wish to be treated.

COL 248.1

The Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul charges us: “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:1-5.

COL 248.2

But sin is not to be lightly regarded. The Lord has commanded us not to suffer wrong upon our brother. He says, “If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him.” Luke 17:3. Sin is to be called by its right name, and is to be plainly laid out before the wrongdoer.

COL 248.3

In his charge to Timothy, Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “Be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. And to Titus he writes, “There are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers.... Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith.” Titus 1:10-13.

COL 248.4

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee,” Christ said, “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.” Matthew 18:15-17.

COL 248.5

Our Lord teaches that matters of difficulty between Christians are to be settled within the church. They should not be opened before those who do not fear God. If a Christian is wronged by his brother, let him not appeal to unbelievers in a court of justice. Let him follow out the instruction Christ has given. Instead of trying to avenge himself, let him seek to save his brother. God will guard the interests of those who love and fear Him, and with confidence we may commit our case to Him who judges righteously.

COL 249.1

Too often when wrongs are committed again and again, and the wrongdoer confesses his fault, the injured one becomes weary, and thinks he has forgiven quite enough. But the Saviour has plainly told us how to deal with the erring: “If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.” Luke 17:3. Do not hold him off as unworthy of your confidence. Consider “thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1.

COL 249.2

If your brethren err, you are to forgive them. When they come to you with confession, you should not say, I do not think they are humble enough. I do not think they feel their confession. What right have you to judge them, as if you could read the heart? The word of God says, “If he repent, forgive him. And if he trespasses against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” Luke 17:3, 4. And not only seven times, but seventy times seven—just as often as God forgives you.

COL 250.1

We ourselves owe everything to God’s free grace. Grace in the covenant ordained our adoption. Grace in the Saviour effected our redemption, our regeneration, and our exaltation to heirship with Christ. Let this grace be revealed to others.

COL 250.2

Give the erring one no occasion for discouragement. Suffer not a Pharisaical hardness to come in and hurt your brother. Let no bitter sneer rise in mind or heart. Let no tinge of scorn be manifest in the voice. If you speak a word of your own, if you take an attitude of indifference, or show suspicion or distrust, it may prove the ruin of a soul. He needs a brother with the Elder Brother’s heart of sympathy to touch his heart of humanity. Let him feel the strong clasp of a sympathizing hand, and hear the whisper, Let us pray. God will give a rich experience to you both. Prayer unites us with one another and with God. Prayer brings Jesus to our side, and gives to the fainting, perplexed soul new strength to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil. Prayer turns aside the attacks of Satan.

COL 250.3

When one turns away from human imperfections to behold Jesus, a divine transformation takes place in the character. The Spirit of Christ working upon the heart conforms it to His image. Then let it be your effort to lift up Jesus. Let the mind’s eye be directed to “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. And as you engage in this work, remember that “he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” James 5:20.

COL 251.1

“But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:15. Nothing can justify an unforgiving spirit. He who is unmerciful toward others shows that he himself is not a partaker of God’s pardoning grace. In God’s forgiveness the heart of the erring one is drawn close to the great heart of Infinite Love. The tide of divine compassion flows into the sinner’s soul, and from him to the souls of others. The tenderness and mercy that Christ has revealed in His own precious life will be seen in those who become sharers of His grace. But “if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.” Romans 8:9. He is alienated from God, fitted only for eternal separation from Him.

COL 251.2

It is true that he may once have received forgiveness; but his unmerciful spirit shows that he now rejects God’s pardoning love. He has separated himself from God, and is in the same condition as before he was forgiven. He has denied his repentance, and his sins are upon him as if he had not repented.

COL 251.3

But the great lesson of the parable lies in the contrast between God’s compassion and man’s hardheartedness; in the fact that God’s forgiving mercy is to be the measure of our own. “Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?”

COL 251.4

We are not forgiven because we forgive, but as we forgive. The ground of all forgiveness is found in the unmerited love of God, but by our attitude toward others we show whether we have made that love our own. Wherefore Christ says, “With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 143, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 143, 1905, par. 5

“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.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]

20LtMs, Ms 143, 1905, par. 10

“So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” [Verses 21-35.]

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

MR No. 983—Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties

12MR 276.3

[Matthew 18:15-18, quoted.]

[Matthew 18:23-35, quoted.]

From the Heart

How Often Shall I Forgive? April 19

FH 121.1

Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Matthew 18:22. (Read Matthew 18:15-35.)

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 48—The Division of Canaan

PP 516.1

In a trial for murder the accused was not to be condemned on the testimony of one witness, even though circumstantial evidence might be strong against him. The Lord’s direction was, “Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die.” Numbers 35:30. It was Christ who gave to Moses these directions for Israel; and when personally with His disciples on earth, as He taught them how to treat the erring, the Great Teacher repeated the lesson that one man’s testimony is not to acquit or condemn. One man’s views and opinions are not to settle disputed questions. In all these matters two or more are to be associated, and together they are to bear the responsibility, “that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Matthew 18:16.

From Eternity Past

Chapter 48—Home at Last

EP 368.2

In a trial for murder, the accused was not to be condemned on the testimony of one witness, even though circumstantial evidence might be strong against him. “Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of the witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die.” Numbers 35:30. It was Christ who gave to Moses these directions for Israel; and when personally on earth the Great Teacher repeated the lesson that one man’s testimony is not to acquit or condemn. One man’s opinions are not to settle disputed questions. “In the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Matthew 18:16.

Homeward Bound

Dealing With Misunderstandings, August 16

HB 253.6

“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.” (Matthew 18:16.) Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one in error in regard to the wrong. He may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As he sees their agreement in the matter, his mind may be enlightened.—Testimonies for the Church 7:261, 262.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 174a, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 174a, 1902, par. 10

“In the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” [Matthew 18:16.] As workers together with God, we should be on guard not to grieve His Holy Spirit by careless, harsh, disrespectful words or by indiscreet actions. Our relations with one another should be pleasant. When we do right, the testimony of our own spirit and the testimony of the Spirit of God bear witness that the human mind is under the control of the divine mind. “Hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.” [1 John 3:19-21.] His Word furnishes evidence from which we may draw the conclusion that we are indeed His sons and daughters.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]

More Love Needed

15MR 154.1

When brethren come together in harmony with the directions of Christ, Jesus Himself is a witness to the scene, and the whole universe looks with intense interest upon those who not only believe but do the words of Christ. The Spirit of God will move upon the heart of him who has erred, when Christ’s words are carried out, and the one at fault will be convicted of his error. But if he is too proud, too self-sufficient, to confess his mistake and heal the wrong, other steps are to be taken in order to follow out the complete directions of the Word. “But if he will not hear thee (in that private interview), then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established” (Matthew 18:16). The matter of difficulty is to be confined to as small a number as possible. But two or three are to labor with the one who is in error. They should not only talk with him but bow in prayer, and with humble hearts seek the Lord.

15MR 154.2

“And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church”—if he persists in his unreasonable course, and will not be corrected, then there is only one more step to be taken, and that is a very sorrowful one—“Let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican” (Matthew 18:17). “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 18:18). When every specification which Christ has given has been carried out in the true, Christian spirit, then and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ, and do as He would do were He upon the earth....

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Heaven Interested

3TT 202.2

“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.” Matthew 18:16. Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one in error in regard to the wrong. He may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As he sees their agreement in the matter, his mind may be enlightened.

3TT 202.3

“And if he shall neglect to hear them,” what then shall be done? Shall a few persons in a board meeting take upon themselves the responsibility of disfellowshiping the erring one? “If he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church.” Verse 17. Let the church take action in regard to its members.

3TT 202.4

“But if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” Verse 17. If he 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 fellowship. His name should then be stricken from the books.

3TT 203.2

“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.” Verse 18.

Counsels for the Church

Church’s Duty to Those Who Refuse Its Counsel

CCh 258.1

“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.” Verse 18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 135, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, par. 39

The world’s Redeemer has invested great power with His church. He states the rules to be applied in cases of trial with its members. After He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever (in church discipline) ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Matthew 18:18.] Thus even the heavenly authority ratifies the discipline of the church in regard to its members, when the Bible rule has been followed.

16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, par. 46

The church is God’s delegated authority upon the earth. Christ has said, “Whatsoever ye bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever things ye loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verse 18.] There is altogether too little respect paid to the opinion of members of the same church. It is the want of deference for the opinions of the church that causes so much trouble among brethren. The eyes of the church may be able to discern in its individual members that which the erring may not see. A few persons may be blind as the one in error, but the majority of the church is a power which should control its individual members. ...

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Engaging in Secular Business

GW92 196.2

In Christ’s commission to his disciples, he tells them, “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.] If this is the fearfully responsible work of God’s ministers, how important that they give themselves wholly to it, and watch for souls as they that must give an account! Should any separate or selfish interest come in here and divide the heart from the work? Some ministers linger about their homes, and run out on the Sabbath, and then return, and exhaust their energies in farming or in attending to home matters. They labor for themselves through the week, and then spend the remnant of their exhausted energies in laboring for God. But such feeble efforts are not acceptable to him. They have no mental or physical strength to spare. At best their efforts are feeble enough. But after they have been engrossed and entangled all through the laboring days of the week, with the cares and perplexities of this life, they are wholly unfitted for the high, the sacred, the important work of God. The destiny of souls hangs upon the course they pursue and the decisions they make. How important, then, that they should be temperate in all things, not only in their eating, but in their labor, that their strength may be unabated and devoted to their sacred calling....

Manuscript Releases, vol. 4 [Nos. 210-259]

MR No. 255—Church Members to Have the Mind of Christ

4MR 438.1

“Verily I say unto you, whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 18:18). When every specification which Christ has given has been carried out in the true, Christian spirit, then, and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ, and do as He would do were He upon the earth.—Letter 1c, 1890, p. 3. (To Brethren Atwood and Pratt, May 28, 1890.)

Selected Messages Book 3

What Heaven Ratifies

3SM 22.1

“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 18:18). When every specification which Christ has given has been carried out in the true, Christian spirit, then, and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ, and do as he would do were he upon the earth.—Letter 1c, 1890.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Authority of the Church

1TT 390.1

The world’s Redeemer has invested great power with His church. He states the rules to be applied in cases of trial with its members. After He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says: “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever [in church discipline] ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:18. Thus even the heavenly authority ratifies the discipline of the church in regard to its members when the Bible rule has been followed.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Independence Not Sanctioned

1TT 395.2

Christ gives power to the voice of the church. “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 18:18. No such thing is countenanced as one man’s starting out upon his own individual responsibility and advocating what views he chooses, irrespective of the judgment of the church. God has bestowed the highest power under heaven upon His church. It is the voice of God in His united people in church capacity which is to be respected.

Homeward Bound

The Church Is Not One Man’s Opinion, August 22

HB 259.2

The world’s Redeemer has invested great power with His church. He states the rules to be applied in cases of trial with its members. After He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says: “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever [in church discipline] ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 18:18.) Thus even the heavenly authority ratifies the discipline of the church in regard to its members when the Bible rule has been followed.

Maranatha

Intercessory Prayers for Souls, January 30

Mar 38.1

Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 10a, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 10a, 1892, par. 16

How quickly self is touched! How quick men are to imagine they are slighted, and they think evil. Hearts filled with the love of Jesus will not do this, for they are reaching for the completeness in Christ Jesus. They will have confidence in their brethren. They will often bow in prayer with them. This is a privilege not appreciated by many. They will plead the promise, “I say unto you that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything they shall ask, it shall be done for them by my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:19.] They can cling to that promise; their hearts need just this kind of discipline in order to blend together. But if Satan is allowed to come in between brother and brother, there is weakness and no strength.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 10, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 10, 1892, par. 19

How quickly self is touched, how quick men are to imagine that they are slighted. Now, hearts filled with the love of Jesus will not feel thus. They are reaching for the completeness in Christ Jesus. They will have confidence in their brethren. They will often bow in prayer with them. They will plead the promise, “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.” [Matthew 18:19.] They can cling to that promise; their hearts need just this kind of discipline in order to blend together. But if Satan is allowed to come in between brother and brother, there is weakness and not strength. Shall we not labor most decidedly for unity, for love?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 48, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 47

But, thank God, there are many who have been listening to his word and feasting upon it. What does Christ say?—“Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.” [John 6:53.] Then let us feast upon Christ. Let us enjoy his love, and praise God for this great salvation. Then we shall come together, heart to heart. When we shall subdue our pride, when we shall pluck from the garden of the soul every fiber of the root of bitterness, our hearts will flow together as the heart of one. And the Saviour’s promise is, “If any 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.” [Matthew 18:19.] Then, I ask, Where is our power?—It is in the sincere prayers going up to heaven continually that Christ will reveal himself to us. And he will do it. The light and glory of God will rest upon his people. And then the world will see, and will say, “Behold, how these brethren love one another.” Then all this heart burning and distrust will cease, and in place of it, there will be love and union, courtesy, kindness, and tenderness. The very countenances will shine with the glory of God. We shall all see eye to eye. We shall speak the same things, and be of the same judgment.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 22a, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 22a, 1902, par. 31

The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort is a plan that has been presented before me by One who cannot err. If there are a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members, but for unbelievers. If in one place there are only two or three who know the truth, let them form themselves into a band of workers. Let them keep their bond of union unbroken, pressing together in love and unity, encouraging one another to advance, each gaining encouragement and strength from the assistance of the other. Let them exercise Christ’s forbearance and patience, speaking no hasty words, but using their talent of speech to build up one another in the most holy faith. Let them labor in Christlike love for those outside of the fold, forgetting self in the endeavor to help others. As they work and pray in Christ’s name, their numbers will increase; for the Saviour declares, “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.” [Matthew 18:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 5, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 5, 1902, par. 48

The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort is a plan that has been presented before me by One who cannot err. If there are a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies to work, not <alone> for the church members, but for unbelievers. If in one place there are only two or three who know the truth, let them form themselves into a band of workers. Let them keep their bond of union unbroken, pressing together in love and unity, encouraging one another to advance, each gaining encouragement and strength from the assistance of the other. Let them exercise Christ’s forbearance and patience, speaking no hasty words, but using their talent of speech to build up one another in the most holy faith. Let them labor in Christlike love for those who are outside of the fold, forgetting self in the endeavor to help others. As they work and pray in Christ’s name, their numbers will increase; for the Saviour declares, “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.” [Matthew 18:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 71, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 71, 1906, par. 9

Our work will stand on the highest level only as we receive instruction from our Redeemer, and as we unite with one another in our efforts. “If two of you on earth shall agree as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 372, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, par. 2

“Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:19.] Believe this promise. Do not allow your faith to waver. May the Lord lead and guide and strengthen you is my prayer.

Selected Messages Book 3

Counsel Together—Compare Plans

3SM 24.4

In every effort in every place where the truth is introduced there is need of different minds, different gifts, different plans and methods of labor being united. All should make it a point to counsel together, to pray together. Christ says that, “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:19). No one worker has all the wisdom that is needed. There should be a comparing of plans, a counseling together. No one man should think himself sufficient to manage an interest in any place without helpers.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 3—Work for Church Members

7T 21.4

The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort has been presented to me by One who cannot err. If there is a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members, but for unbelievers. If in one place there are only two or three who know the truth, let them form themselves into a band of workers. Let them keep their bond of union unbroken, pressing together in love and unity, encouraging one another to advance, each gaining courage and strength from the assistance of the others. Let them reveal Christlike forbearance and patience, speaking no hasty words, using the talent of speech to build one another up in the most holy faith. Let them labor in Christlike love for those outside the fold, forgetting self in their endeavor to help others. As they work and pray in Christ’s name, their numbers will increase; for the Saviour 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.” Matthew 18:19.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Organizing for Service

3TT 84.2

The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort has been presented to me by One who cannot err. If there is a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members, but for unbelievers. If in one place there are only two or three who know the truth, let them form themselves into a band of workers. Let them keep their bond of union unbroken, pressing together in love and unity, encouraging one another to advance, each gaining courage and strength from the assistance of the others. Let them reveal Christlike forbearance and patience, speaking no hasty words, using the talent of speech to build one another up in the most holy faith. Let them labor in Christlike love for those outside the fold, forgetting self in their endeavor to help others. As they work and pray in Christ’s name, their numbers will increase; for the Saviour 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.” Matthew 18:19.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

They Cannot Walk Together

1TT 576.2

Shall one who is seeking for glory, honor, immortality, eternal life, form a union with another who refuses to rank with the soldiers of the cross of Christ? Will you who profess to choose Christ for your master and to be obedient to Him in all things, unite your interests with one who is ruled by the prince of the powers of darkness? “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3:3. “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.” Matthew 18:19. But how strange the sight! While one of those so closely united is engaged in devotion, the other is indifferent and careless; while one is seeking the way to everlasting life, the other is in the broad road to death.

With God at Dawn

If Two Shall Agree, It Shall Be Done, July 14

WGD 197.1

Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 66a, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 66a, 1886, par. 3

I hope that they will all be constantly learning in the school of Christ, that they may become better and better prepared to engage in the great, solemn work for this time—that of presenting the truth to the world. You must not mingle self in your labors; keep self out of sight, and work in humility and with wisdom. Make the most of your opportunities, and labor in harmony with your fellow workers. Do not say, either by word or action, “This is my field of labor. I do not care to have you enter it.” Just do your own work with fidelity. The Lord has not appointed to any one man a special territory in which he is to do all the work alone; for where the truth is introduced, there is need that different minds, different gifts, different plans and methods of labor be united. Christ 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.” [Matthew 18:19.] No one worker has all the wisdom that is needed in introducing the truth in a new place. There should be a comparing of plans, praying and counseling together. One man may have tact in one direction, but be a decided failure in others, even in some essential points; and hence his work is imperfect. He needs another man’s gifts to blend with his.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 15, 1884

4LtMs, Lt 15, 1884, par. 11

Seek to be heavenly minded, to be pure, circumspect. Brother Rue, you need more warmth of love. May the Lord bind your hearts together in the sacred bonds of His holy love. If you love God supremely, you will love each other. You will in thoughts, words, and actions show respect and love for each other and express it. And let no one have the least influence over you to dim or to chill this love of heavenly origin. You must be at agreement. “If two of you agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done of my heavenly Father.” [Matthew 18:19.] Precious promise!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 66, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 66, 1886, par. 1

I hope that you will be constantly learning in the school of Christ, that you may be better and better prepared to engage in the great, the solemn work for this time, that of presenting the truth to the world. You must not mingle self in your labors; keep self out of sight, and work in humility and with wisdom. Make the most of your opportunities, and harmonize with your fellow workers. Do not say, This is my field in which I am to work, I do not want you to come into my field. This is a wrong course to pursue. Just do your work with fidelity. Sow beside all waters. Paul may plant, Apollos water, but God giveth the increase. The Lord has not appointed to any one man a special territory in which to work; for in every effort, in every place where the truth is introduced, there is need of different minds, different gifts, different plans and methods of labor being united. All should make it a point to counsel together, to pray together. Christ 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.” [Matthew 18:19.]

In Heavenly Places

The Prayer Meeting a Precious Season, March 25

HP 91.1

Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing 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 18:19, 20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 183, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 183, 1901, par. 16

All in church capacity are to work, beseeching men and women to be reconciled unto God. In this way all may show that they are favored to serve. They possess the grace of the ministry of reconciliation. If one errs, if from any cause there is disagreement, do not let time pass, but go to work at once to settle variances and come into unity. Those who are thus tried are to work according to God’s plan and are to settle the matter of disagreement between themselves. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing 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 18:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 32, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 32, 1903, par. 15

As a church, we have received great light. This light the Lord has entrusted to us for the benefit and blessing of the world. To us has been given the ministry of reconciliation. With power from on high we are to beseech men to be reconciled to God. We are encouraged to pray for success, with the divine assurance that our prayers will be heard and answered. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:19, 20.] “Ask of Me, and I will answer your requests.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 193, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 193, 1907, par. 7

And we ask Thee for Christ’s sake that Thou wouldest take hold of the case of Brother Starr. We ask Thee, my Father, to do that work for Him that none of us can do. We seek Thee with Thy healing power to come and set his brain and his physical system in order. We ask Thee to increase our faith. Thou hast said, “Where there are two or three agreed as touching anything that they should ask in Thy name, it should be done unto them.” [Matthew 18:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 141, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 141, 1907, par. 18

We have such a limited faith. Many of our church members need to be reconverted. They need to cultivate faith in God. Fervent prayer, offered in humility of heart, will be heard and answered. The desire expressed for a sanctified and purified heart, a refined and noble character, will bring the aid of the Holy Spirit to the petitioner. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask,” Christ says, “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 18:19, 20.] “Ask, and it shall be given you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 140, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 140, 1908, par. 11

There must be a drawing together on the part of the workers. The promise is, “Where two or three are agreed as touching anything, it shall be done.” [See Matthew 18:19, 20.] How many there are who ask the question, Am I my brother’s keeper? Said the angel, Yea, thou art thy brother’s keeper. To every professing Christian the words are spoken, Suffer not thy brother to be left unwarned; cherish a spirit of kindness and love toward the erring. When a man commits a wrong, it is often because spiritual blindness is upon him; he is deceived and deluded. Treat him not as an enemy. The Lord has bought him with a price. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] The soul who accepts the sacrifice of Christ in his behalf is pledged to have a special care for his brother who is erring.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 9, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 9, 1908, par. 13

Speaking to His church, Christ said, “And I say unto you, That if ye shall agree on earth as touching anything that ye shall ask, it shall be done 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 18:19, 20.] The professing Christian, who is not a Christian in practice, is not included in this promise. It is only when the voice of the church becomes the voice of Christ, that the promise can be received in its fulness.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]

MR No. 748—The Power of United Prayer

9MR 303.2

As a church, we have received great light. This light the Lord has entrusted to us for the benefit and blessing of the world. To us has been given the ministry of reconciliation. With power from on high we are to beseech men to be reconciled to God. We are encouraged to pray for success, with the divine assurance that our prayers will be heard and answered. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing 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 18:19, 20). “Ask of Me, and I will answer your requests.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 11, 1883

4LtMs, Lt 11, 1883, par. 14

You need a physician: you [need] the grace of Christ which is the balm of Gilead, that you may walk worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called that you may be presented to God without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. Satan is ever seeking to corrupt us. He is seeking to corrupt you, to pollute you. This is Satan’s aim. Are you letting him do his hellish work? While we are powerless to stay the workings of sin and Satan, help has been provided. Ask and ye shall receive. Two or three may claim the promise; if they ask anything in His name, He will do it. [John 14:14; Matthew 18:19, 20.] He will be inquired of to do these things for us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 100, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 100, 1896, par. 15

“Where two or three are agreed together,” this Word declares, “as touching anything they shall ask in the name of Jesus, it shall be done for them.” [Matthew 18:19, 20.] “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Bow down before God. With reverential awe approach the throne of grace. Present the Word of God which is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 195, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 195, 1901, par. 4

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.] “I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing 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 18:19, 20.]

Counsels for the Church

Churches Organized by the Prophets

CCh 245.4

This was in harmony with the gospel plan of uniting in one body all believers in Christ, and this plan Paul was careful to follow throughout his ministry. Those who in any place were by his labor led to accept Christ as the Saviour were at the proper time organized into a church. Even when the believers were but few in number, this was done. The Christians were thus taught to help one another, remembering the promise, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.441The Acts of the Apostles, 185, 186

Our High Calling

The Court of Holy Life, June 7

OHC 164.4

Christ makes His church a beautiful temple for God. “Where two or three are gathered together in my name,” He declared, “there am I in the midst of them,” Matthew 18:20. His church is the court of holy life, filled with varied gifts, and endowed with the Holy Spirit. Appropriate duties are assigned by Heaven to each member of the church on earth, and all are to find their happiness in the happiness of those whom they help and bless.15The Signs of the Times, March 1, 1910 (The Review and Herald, December 4, 1900).

Reflecting Christ

Praying Believers Should Encircle the World, April 17

RC 121.4

The members of our churches need to be converted, to become more spiritual-minded. A chain of earnest, praying believers should encircle the world. Let all pray in humility. A few neighbors may meet together to pray for the Holy Spirit. Let those who cannot leave home gather in their children, and unite in learning to pray together. They may claim the promise of the Saviour, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20)....

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Duty of the Publishing House to the Church

7T 190.3

Never entertain the thought that you can be Christians and yet withdraw within yourselves. Each one is a part of the great web of humanity, and the nature and quality of your experience will be largely determined by the experiences of those with whom you associate. Jesus says: “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst.” Matthew 18:20. Then let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhort one another; and so much the more, as we see the day approaching.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Sabbath Meetings

6T 360.2

Christ has said: “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Wherever there are as many as two or three believers, let them meet together on the Sabbath to claim the Lord’s promise.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 18—Preaching Among the Heathen

AA 185.3

This was in harmony with the gospel plan of uniting in one body all believers in Christ, and this plan Paul was careful to follow throughout his ministry. Those who in any place were by his labor led to accept Christ as the Saviour were at the proper time organized into a church. Even when the believers were but few in number, this was done. The Christians were thus taught to help one another, remembering the promise, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.

The Faith I Live By

In the Channel of Blessing, August 28

FLB 246.3

Many declare that it is certainly no harm to go to a concert and neglect the prayer meeting, or absent themselves from meetings where God’s servants are to declare a message from heaven. It is safe for you to be just where Christ has said He would be.... Jesus has said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Can you afford to choose your pleasure and miss the blessing? 141Messages to Young People, 140, 141.

The Faith I Live By

Outpouring of the Latter Rain, November 24

FLB 334.4

Do not rest satisfied that in the ordinary course of the season, rain will fall. Ask for it.... We must seek His favors with the whole heart if the showers of grace are to come to us. We should improve every opportunity of placing ourselves in the channel of blessing. Christ has said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst.” Matthew 18:20. The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is personal labor for souls, are God’s appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain....

The Upward Look

Be Singular—For Christ’s Sake, October 28

UL 315.5

God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, neither is it the national establishment, neither is it the various denominations; it is the people who love God and keep His commandments. “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). Where Christ is even among the humble few, this is Christ’s church, for the presence of the High and Holy One who inhabiteth eternity can alone constitute a church.

This Day With God

Next Door to Heaven, January 3

TDG 11.1

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20.

Ye Shall Receive Power

A Permanent Connection, October 24

YRP 306.5

We should improve every opportunity of placing ourselves in the channel of blessing. Christ has said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst” (Matthew 18:20). The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is personal labor for souls, are God’s appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain.—The Review and Herald, March 2, 1897.

Counsels for the Church

“O Come Let Us Worship the Lord”

CCh 265.3

Christ has said: “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Wherever there are as many as two or three believers, let them meet together on the Sabbath to claim the Lord’s promise.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Breathe the Atmosphere of Heaven

2TT 251.1

Brethren, unless you educate yourselves to respect the place of devotion, you will receive no blessing from God. You may worship Him in form, but there will be no spiritual service. “Where two or three are gathered together in My name,” says Jesus, “there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. All should feel that they are in the divine presence, and instead of dwelling upon the faults and errors of others they should be diligently searching their own hearts. If you have confessions to make of your own sins, do your duty and leave others to do theirs.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Sabbath Meetings

3TT 27.1

Christ has said: “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Wherever there are as many as two or three believers, let them meet together on the Sabbath to claim the Lord’s promise.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 18—The Apostles Are Both Persecuted and Adored

TT 98.5

Paul was careful to follow throughout his ministry the gospel plan of uniting in one body all believers in Christ. Even when believers were but few in number, they were, at the proper time, organized into a church and taught to help one another, remembering the promise, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20, RSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 49, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 49, 1886, par. 3

“And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of the Lord.” Verses 10, 11. Here we learn that God approved of the work of Solomon in the building of the temple. It is true that the company at Tramelan is small compared with the millions of people who worshiped at Solomon’s temple, but the Lord’s presence is not confined to numbers. He meets with the few as well as the many. The promise is, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 10, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 10, 1886, par. 19

The eye of God is upon these scattered ones; and if there are only two or three of you together, the promise is: Where two or three are met together in My name, there am I in the midst of them. [Matthew 18:20.] And what does the Lord say in regard to these little companies? Why, He says, “They shall be Mine in that day when I make up My jewels, and I will spare them as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” [Malachi 3:17.] Now every one of us who will try to bring a healthful, reviving influence into the church by their works will be remembered in heaven, and He will give them a reward just as much as to the minister who stands in the desk. They are doing their work with fidelity, and they have a sense of the responsibility that rests upon them that they must labor for one another.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 108, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 108, 1886, par. 17

We thank the Lord that a few have had the moral courage in Nimes to cease to longer transgress the law of God, to accept the light and take their position firmly to keep the Sabbath that God has sanctified and blessed. Let the light shine forth from these few in bright, steady rays, reflecting light upon those who are in darkness. Said Christ to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, neither is it the national establishment, neither is it the various denominations; it is the people who love God and keep His commandments. “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] Where Christ is even among the humble few, this is Christ’s church, for the presence of the high and holy One who inhabiteth eternity can alone constitute a church. Where two or three are present who love and obey the commandments of God, Jesus there presides; let it be in the desolate place of the earth, in the wilderness, in the city enclosed in prison walls. The glory of God has penetrated the prison walls, flooding with glorious beams of heavenly light the darkest dungeon. His saints may suffer, but their sufferings will, like the apostles of old, spread their faith and win souls to Christ and glorify His holy name. The bitterest opposition expressed by those who hate God’s great moral standard of righteousness should not and will not shake the steadfast soul who trusts fully in God. All things shall work together for good to those who love God. “This is the love of God, that ye keep His commandments.” [1 John 5:3.] They that will be doers of the Word are building securely, and the tempest and storm of persecution will not shake their foundation, because their souls are rooted to the eternal rock.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 7, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 7, 1888, par. 47

I believe that Jesus is interested in all this assembly. He is here today. He says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] He is with you and that to bless. We want the blessing, and why should we not have it? We are to meet the moral darkness that is in the world, and we must meet it as Christ did. We must reveal Christ to all who are around us. When we do this work, we are abiding in Christ and Christ is abiding in us. Not only when we speak of Him, but He is with us all the time to help us on every point, to press back the power of moral darkness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 31, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 31, 1891, par. 17

Never entertain the idea that you can be Christians and still withdraw yourselves within yourselves. Each one is a part of the great web of humanity, and the nature and quality of your experience will be largely determined by the character of the experiences of those with whom you associate. Jesus says, “Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in the midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] Then do not forsake the “assembling of yourselves together as the manner of some is; but exhort one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” [Hebrews 10:25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 17, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 17, 1893, par. 17

“For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] His special presence is there to make the prayers and worship of His people effectual, and to impart to them a blessing which they in their turn shall impart to others. We are highly honored to be reckoned as soldiers of Jesus Christ. We have enlisted to serve under Him, the Captain of our salvation, wearing His armor, marshalled under His banner, identifying our interests with Christ that we shall subdue His enemies and extend His kingdom. We must be faithful soldiers of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 32, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 32, 1894, par. 11

The fact that the Lord has been represented as hearkening to the words spoken by His witnesses tells us that Jesus is in the very midst of us. He says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] One person is not to do all the witnessing for Jesus, but everyone who loves God is to testify of the preciousness of His grace and truth. Those who receive the light of truth are to have lesson upon lesson to educate them not to keep silent, but to speak often one to another. They are to keep in mind the Sabbath meeting, when those who love and fear God, and who think upon His name, can have opportunity to express their thoughts in speaking one to another.

In Heavenly Places

A Chain of Earnest, Praying Believers, March 27

HP 93.3

A chain of earnest, praying believers should encircle the world. Let all pray in humility. A few neighbors may meet together to pray for the Holy Spirit. Let those who cannot leave home, gather in their children, and unite in learning to pray together. They may claim the promise of the Saviour: “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).52The Review and Herald, January 3, 1907.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 89, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 89, 1894, par. 5

The ensign of the reign of Messiah in all its character is to be distinguished by the likeness of the Son of man. Where the kingdom of God prevails, every carnal weapon, every influence of force and compulsion is banished. By the action of the Holy Spirit on the mind, God is recognized with gratitude and with love that is without one taint of selfishness. Christ said, “And he is our sanctification, our sufficiency, our righteousness.” “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 103, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 103, 1894, par. 8

In every meeting where the saints are assembled to worship God, we have the promise from our Saviour, “There am I in the midst” [Matthew 18:20], and Satan and his apostate angels are there, seeking to affect minds and hearts by means of the atmosphere that surrounds the souls of the unconsecrated. Satan is working that men shall not hear with sanctified ears, or understand with sanctified minds, or speak the truth with sanctified lips. We must understand the warfare, and we must give no place to the devil.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 37, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 37, 1894, par. 21

We are thankful that we can come to Christ as the poor suffering ones came to Christ in the temple. We hope that this house will be a house of prayer, and that those who enter here will realize that they are coming to meet with God. Christ has said, “Where two or three are met together, there am I in the midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] We do not expect to be able to furnish you with a minister always; but you must have root in yourselves. You must learn to draw for yourselves from the fountain of life. You have not dared to trample under foot the commandments of God, and have stepped out on unpopular truth, let the result be what it may. Will the Saviour ever turn away to leave you to struggle alone? No, never. But He never told His disciples that they should have no trials, no self-denial to endure, no sacrifices to make. The Master was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, how that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty, might be rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] We thank God that in your poverty you can call God your Father. Poverty is coming upon this world, and there will be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation. There will be wars and rumors of wars, and the faces of men will gather paleness. You may have to suffer distress, you may go hungry sometimes, but God will not forsake you in your suffering. He will test your faith. We are not to live to please ourselves. We are here to manifest Christ to the world, to represent Him and His power to mankind.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 32a, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 32a, 1894, par. 1

Last Sabbath, July 28, my son W. C. White, and myself, drove to Kellyville, to speak in the church by special request. There was a person acquainted with our faith, but who was not one with us, who said he would come to the meeting to hear one of our ministers speak. We were the only ones who could respond to the request. We were glad to see in the assembly, besides this interested person, the family of Brother Radleigh from Castle Hill, who had come ten miles to the meeting. We had a very precious season, for the promise of the Saviour was fulfilled, “where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in the midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] When Jesus meets with His people, His blessing rests upon those who assemble for the purpose of worshiping God. We need to cherish and cultivate a spirit of true worship, a spirit of devotion upon the Lord’s holy, sanctified day. We should assemble together believing that we shall receive comfort and hope, light and peace from Jesus Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 55, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 55, 1895, par. 9

“Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Luke 18:16. We felt that the presence of the Lord was with us and we know this for a certainty, for He has said, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. At the close of the meeting we were welcomed heartily to Bismark.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 45, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 10

When we yoke up with Christ, we may leave the whole weight of the load upon Jesus, moving forward with a living faith, knowing that He will not fail nor be discouraged. When this method is followed, the laborer, through the grace of Christ, will bear such a testimony that the people will be brought into communication with Him who has said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] They will be led to say “This is the house of God, and the gate of heaven.” [Genesis 28:17.] O let the messengers of God cry aloud for the Holy Comforter; let the weary and heavy laden, the doubting soul, believe, only believe that God is a present help in every time of need. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit that we are the sons of God.” [Romans 8:16.] O, let the longing soul, seeking after a knowledge of God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent, realize that the living God is our present and eternal strength.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 29, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, par. 6

The Lord is not unforgiving, that He will not forgive our mistakes. His great heart of pity and love is drawn out to all those who are blind and lose their way. And to those also who have led these souls into darkness, and have become blind leaders of the blind, His pity and forgiveness are extended. Do you want blind eyes opened? Then come to Jesus. He says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] Jesus is in every assembly that has gathered together to learn of Him, to hear His Word. And He can make all see clearly. He never makes mistakes. But serious blunders are made because His people do not receive His counsel, but choose to go forward in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. These will lie down in sorrow if they do not come to Jesus and have their blind eyes opened. They will continue walking contrary to God’s will, not humble enough to bear Christ’s yoke, but [will] become helpless, withering branches that bear no fruit that God will accept.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 22, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 22, 1897, par. 5

Christ has said, “Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] Let the meetings held on the Sabbath of the Lord be meetings of deep interest. Those who claim to be children of God are to act with unswerving fidelity. You are not called upon to attend the services on the Sabbath of the Lord to take a nap.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 76, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 76, 1898, par. 4

I know that the Lord strengthened by His grace those who were assembled at the meeting. After a season of prayer, nearly all bore their testimony. We did indeed have the assurance that “where two are three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] The Saviour was present in these little prayer and witness meetings. We may be assured and encouraged by experience that the blessing and grace of Christ will be in our gatherings.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 85, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 85, 1898, par. 2

We have always realized the special blessing of God in thus meeting together to seek the Lord. God has promised, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” If these are not recognized now, they will be in the future. “Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.” [Malachi 3:16-18.]

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

Diary, Tramelan, Switzerland, May 22, 1886

3MR 230.2

“And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord.” Verses 10, 11. Here we learn that God approved of the work of Solomon in the building of the Temple. It is true that the company at Tramelan is small compared with the millions of people who worshiped at Solomon’s Temple, but the Lord’s presence is not confined to numbers. He meets with the few as well as the many. The promise is, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 8, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 8, 1898, par. 8

[Those] who have declared that His words are spirit and life should have their faith in strong exercise that the Lord Jesus is an honored guest in their assemblies. “Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] If He is there, it is to enlighten and bless. Therefore as we assemble together, we all have a solemn sense of the presence of God, and know that the angels of God are in the assembly. The messengers of the gospel know by experience its truth, power and excellence. It is the hours of the Sabbath that are sacred and sanctified and holy, and every true worshipper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise, “That ye may know I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 32, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 32, 1899, par. 10

“Whereunto,” saith He that is the first and the last, “shall I liken the kingdom of God, and with what comparison shall I compare it?” [Mark 4:30.] He could not employ any of the kingdoms of the world as a similitude. In society He found nothing that would resemble it. He looked for a comparison, but could not find it. He would have a new creation. He would make His church a beautiful temple for the Lord. “Where two or three are gathered in my name,” He declares, “there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] His church is the court of holy life, filled with varied gifts and endowed with the Holy Spirit, bringing in piety, compassion, zeal, and love in their order.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 23, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 23, 1899, par. 4

The joy of Christ was in many hearts that Sabbath afternoon. This, you must bear in mind, was a new experience for these dear souls lately come to the faith. We knew that the heavenly Guest was among us. We not only had the promise, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” [Matthew 18:20], but we had the assurance that Christ was behind this promise, and that although He was unseen by natural eyes, yet by faith we discerned the presence of our Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 23, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 23, 1899, par. 10

Those who know how to pray, who know what are the invitations of the gospel of Christ, who know the immutability of His promises, show dishonor to God when they lay their burden upon finite men. It is right, always, to counsel together. It is right to converse together. It is right to make the difficulties that present themselves in any enterprise plain before your brethren and your minister. But do not so greatly dishonor God as to depend on man for wisdom. Seek God for the wisdom that cometh from above. Ask your fellow laborers to pray with you, and the Lord will fulfill His word, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 27a, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 27a, 1900, par. 13

The Lord designs His church below to be a place where heaven is personified. Christ said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] The three highest powers of heaven combined to organize a church composed of members who would be distinguished from world-lovers and world-servers by the spiritual nature of their profession and their practical godliness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 80, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 80, 1900, par. 13

Christ has gone to heaven to prepare mansions for all who love Him and keep His commandments. The keeping of God’s commandments makes men more and more partakers of Christ’s pure, holy, divine nature, giving them a sense of companionship with Him. Though unseen, He is at their right hand to help them. Especially is it the privilege of those who now keep the Sabbath, who bear God’s sign, to expect the divine blessing on that day. God has said, “Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] Those who honor the Sabbath with heart and soul will receive the richest blessings. The grace and love and joy which come from God alone will be theirs.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 155, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 155, 1902, par. 12

Christ declared that where two or three are gathered together in His name, He is in the midst of them, to bless them and to answer their petitions. [Matthew 18:20.] He is our burden-bearer. He never repulses any one. With sympathetic love and tender compassion, without trace of harshness, He meets us in our necessities.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 118, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 118, 1902, par. 14

“Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them,” Christ declared. [Matthew 18:20.] And to His disciples He gave the commission, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 49, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 49, 1903, par. 6

Jesus says, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.] God hears the prayers offered in the family circle if they come from devoted hearts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 107, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, par. 5

Those who by his labors in a place were led to accept Christ as their Saviour he organized into a church. No matter how few in number they might be, this was done. These souls were to help one another, remembering the promise, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.]

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

MR No. 947—Letter to Emma Weber

12MR 105.2

You need to take a decided interest in religious meetings. You have no strength to keep yourself under the sharp assaults of the enemy. You are kept by the power of God through faith. Make earnest and determined efforts to be to every meeting possible. The divine direction is, Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together as the manner of some is, but so much the more as you see the day approaching. [See Hebrews 10:25]. You are to be found among the little few who meet to worship God. The help of every soul who loves the truth is needed to bear testimony of the truth and act as missionaries of God, home missionaries to strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die. Every jot of influence from Christ’s soldiers is now called for on the Lord’s side. Where two or three are assembled together in My name, there am I in the midst and that to bless. [See Matthew 18:20.] Then if we allow ourselves to be hindered by supposed excuses, the enemy will have a hand in creating circumstances so that we shall not be present where Jesus meets to bless His worshipers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 193, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 193, 1905, par. 3

This is the way that we used to do. We prayed for our own souls and for those who were carrying on the work. The Lord Jesus declares that where two or three are gathered together in His name, He is in the midst of them to bless them. [Matthew 18:20.] Let there be less talking and more sincere, earnest prayer.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 99, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 99, 1906, par. 4

The members of our churches need to be converted, to become more spiritual minded. A chain of earnest, praying believers should encircle the world. Let all pray in humility. A few neighbors may meet together to pray for the Holy Spirit. Let those who cannot leave home gather in their children and unite in learning to pray together. They may claim the promise of the Saviour, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 288, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 288, 1906, par. 26

Christ says, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] The blessing of God is not always in proportion to the number who gather. They receive the blessing who are meek and lowly, who have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.

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

MR No. 1560—Strengthening the Cause in the Sydney Area; The Importance of the Seventh-day Sabbath

21MR 294.1

He who has declared that His words are spirit and life should have their faith in strong exercise that the Lord Jesus is an honored Guest in their assemblies. “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” [Matthew 18:20]. If He is there, it is to enlighten and bless. Therefore, as we assemble together, we all have a solemn sense of the presence of God, and know that the angels of God are in the assembly. The messengers of the gospel know by experience its truth, power, and excellence. It is the hours of the Sabbath that are sacred and sanctified and holy, and every true worshiper who keeps holy the Sabbath should claim the promise, “That ye may know I am the Lord the doth sanctify you.”

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

(A) Dependence Upon God, Not Man

1MCP 262.3

Those who know how to pray, who know what are the invitations of the gospel of Christ, who know the immutability of His promises, show dishonor to God when they lay their burden upon finite men. It is right, always, to counsel together. It is right to converse together. It is right to make the difficulties that present themselves in any enterprise plain before your brethren and your minister. But do not so greatly dishonor God as to depend on man for wisdom. Seek God for the wisdom that cometh from above. Ask your fellow laborers to pray with you, and the Lord will fulfill His word, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).—Manuscript 23, 1899.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 71—Happiness

2MCP 645.3

Our Happiness the Happiness of Others—Christ makes His church a beautiful temple for God. “Where two or three are gathered together in My name,” He declared, “there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). His church is the court of holy life, filled with varied gifts, and endowed with the Holy Spirit. Appropriate duties are assigned by Heaven to each member of the church on earth, and all are to find their happiness in the happiness of those whom they help and bless.—The Signs of the Times, March 1, 1910. (Our High Calling, 164.)

Our Father Cares

The Court of Holy Life, April 15

OFC 117.4

Christ makes His church a beautiful temple for God. “Where two or three are gathered together in my name,” He declared, “there am I in the midst of them,” Matthew 18:20. His church is the court of holy life, filled with varied gifts, and endowed with the Holy Spirit. Appropriate duties are assigned by Heaven to each member of the church on earth, and all are to find their happiness in the happiness of those whom they help and bless.15Our High Calling, 164.

Our High Calling

One to a Hundred, June 21

OHC 178.1

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 not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Matthew 18:21, 22.

The Upward Look

Forgiving Freely, January 29

UL 43.1

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 not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Matthew 18:21, 22.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 30, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 30, 1895, par. 40

If the Lord should deal with the human family as men deal with one another, we should have been consumed; but he is longsuffering, of tender pity, forgiving our transgressions and sins. When we seek him with the whole heart he will be found of us. When we repent and confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. The Lord is merciful and gracious, and His limit of forbearance is far beyond that of humanity. On one occasion Peter came to his Lord, and said, “How oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto you, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” [Matthew 18:21, 22.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 3, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 4

“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 released him, and forgave him the debt.” [Matthew 18:21-27.] A sinner forgiven of a great debt should in his turn heartily forgive the errors and sins of others. But instead of this, “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.” [Verse 28.]

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 6

But ere long an opportunity is presented to him to test the character of his gratitude, and to make manifest whether or not the mercy and goodness of God has affected his character. He meets one who has served under him, who owes him a small sum; but as soon as he sees him, he is stirred with the spirit of Satan. Seizing the man by the throat, he exclaims in a voice of passion, “Pay me that thou owest.” [Verse 28.] The terrified debtor falls at his feet, pleading for mercy in the same language that he himself had used in presenting his case to the king. The piteous plea, the tears of distress of the man who is in his power, do not move him. Though he himself had been in a similar position, he has sympathy for the distressed debtor. Rather than manifest compassion, he would exact his rights to the uttermost farthing. He cast the debtor into prison, without an acknowledgment that he had any claim on his sympathy.

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 7

But there are those who observe the conduct of this heartless man, and report his merciless treatment to his lord. The king calls the hardhearted servant into his presence, and says, “O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desirest 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.” [Verses 32-35.]

10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 16

I am commissioned to bring these things before you, to reprove you for your course of action, and to set before you the fact that your soul is in peril. The question is asked, “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul, or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] The question is asked, “Will a man rob God?” [Malachi 3:8.] Would you make the excuses before heaven that you have made here for neglect of duty, and the excuses that you have put into the mouths of others? If a man dealt dishonestly with you, you would seize him as did the relentless servant in the parable, and cry with passion, “Pay me that thou owest.” [Matthew 18:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 29, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 45

Tuesday morning. Talk from Matthew 18:21-35. Some good confessions were made, more to the point than heretofore.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 111, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 111, 1886, par. 4

Please read the parable of the debtor in the lessons of Christ to His disciples, (Matthew 18:22) and onward. Again read the good, righteous, and merciful laws the Lord gave to the children of Israel, (Leviticus 25:35-37): “If thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee. Take thou no usury of him, or increase: but fear thy God; that thy brother may live with thee. Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 81, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 81, 1896, par. 11

“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 desirest me: shouldest thou not 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 tormenters, 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 everyone his brother their trespasses.” [Matthew 18:23-35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 199, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 199, 1901, par. 31

“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 worshiped 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.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 10a, 1885

4LtMs, Lt 10a, 1885, par. 4

Do you wish the Lord to judge you as you have judged your brother? I cannot approve your course in this matter; for it was not prompted by the Spirit of God. The lord forgave him, the debtor, who owed him a large sum; but the man went out and demanded of another the payment of a debt of a very small amount, exclaiming with vehemence, “Pay me that thou owest.” [Matthew 18:27, 28.] Because his fellow servant could not pay the debt, he seized him and put him in prison till the claim could be met. I think this parable represents your course in this matter.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 10, 1885

4LtMs, Lt 10, 1885, par. 5

Is this the way God has dealt with you? Do you wish the Lord to take your case in hand and deal with you as you have dealt with Elder Daniels? Your course in this I cannot approve. The Lord’s Spirit is not in it. The lord forgave the debtor who owed him a large sum, but the man went out and demanded a debt of another creditor which was a very small sum. He went to him exclaiming with vehemence, “Pay me what thou owest.” [Matthew 18:27, 28.] And because he could not, he seized him and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. This I think represents the case. I will wash my hands from all such transactions.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 23, 1885

4LtMs, Lt 23, 1885, par. 53

Now consider how many times Jesus has forgiven you and taken His wilful and rebellious child back to His arms. He has pitied and forgiven you the heavy debt you owed to Him, and yet notwithstanding this amazing love exercised toward you, you go forth like a debtor presented in the Scriptures whom God forgave an enormous debt, but who found one of his fellow servants which owed him a few pence and he laid hands on him and “took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest, and thrust him into prison till he should pay the debt.” [Matthew 18:27-30.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 245, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 245, 1899, par. 8

I could not have felt worse if he had died, than to have the impression on your mind and on his mind, as I know it was when you were in America. I know you tried to help him, but mingled with this was the business in the book arrangements that made him sore by every touch of yours in the matter. From the light given me of the Lord, these things should not have been managed the way they were, for it cut deeply and there has not been that tenderness exercised in regard to your brother that there should have been. There was too much of the spirit, “Pay me what thou owest” [Matthew 18:28], when I was doing for you and for your family all the time everything I could do, and I did it gladly. The light that the Lord has given me has been that there should be unity and love existing and constantly cherished between you, and you have just as much to do in this matter as has Edson, your elder brother.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 43, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 43, 1899, par. 49

Let an abiding Christ live in the soul, and we shall show far greater wisdom then we have done. We shall know more of God and of Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit which opens the door for us to advance. We need to manifest the Spirit of Christ. If we have not received all we should have had, shall we now say, “Pay me that thou owest”? [Matthew 18:28.] It is the Lord’s, and we will say, “Return to God His own. As for me, I dare not now receive that which I might have had.” Say, “Take thine means, which we ought to have received, and let them be used in helping in foreign missionary work.” The great doors of necessity stand wide open.

To Be Like Jesus

Be Compassionate When Poverty Is Unavoidable, June 23

BLJ 186.2

In the parable [Matthew 18:32] the Lord summoned the unmerciful debtor, and “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,” said Jesus, “shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” Those who refuse to forgive are thereby casting away their own hope of pardon.