EGW WritingsMatthew 19
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Matthew 19 in the BibleMatthew 19:3-8
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife?”—Matthew 19:3.
“Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife?”—Matthew 19:3.
MB 63.2
When the Pharisees afterward questioned Him concerning the lawfulness of divorce, Jesus pointed His hearers back to the marriage institution as ordained at creation. “Because of the hardness of your hearts,” He said, Moses “suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.” Matthew 19:8. He referred them to the blessed days of Eden, when God pronounced all things “very good.” Then marriage and the Sabbath had their origin, twin institutions for the glory of God in the benefit of humanity. Then, as the Creator joined the hands of the holy pair in wedlock, saying, A man shall “leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one” (Genesis 2:24), He enunciated the law of marriage for all the children of Adam to the close of time. That which the Eternal Father Himself had pronounced good was the law of highest blessing and development for man.Matthew 19:6
The Faith I Live By
A Union for Life, September 4
FLB 253.1
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. Matthew 19:6.Matthew 19:6-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 7, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 7, 1904, par. 57
God said, “What God hath joined together let no man put asunder;” and yet Christ explains the law of divorce as given because of the hardness of their hearts. [Matthew 19:6-8.] Because of the degeneracy of the people, a divorce law which was not in God’s original plan was permitted. I believe that the principle should be understood in regard to such isolated statements as your protest against the use of butter, and the statement that the child should have no other teacher than the mother until it was eight or ten years old.Matthew 19:8
Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 10—Grounds for Divorce
TSB 79.3
When the Pharisees afterward questioned Him concerning the lawfulness of divorce, Jesus pointed His hearers back to the marriage institution as ordained at creation. “Because of the hardness of your hearts,” He said, Moses “suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so” (Matthew 19:8). He referred them to the blessed days of Eden, when God pronounced all things “very good.” Then marriage and the Sabbath had their origin, twin institutions for the glory of God in the benefit of humanity. Then, as the Creator joined the hands of the holy pair in wedlock, saying, A man shall “leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one” (Genesis 2:24), He enunciated the law of marriage for all the children of Adam to the close of time. That which the Eternal Father Himself had pronounced good was the law of highest blessing and development for man.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 63.Matthew 19:12
Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Section 3—A Mutilated Spouse
TSB 54.1
[When he was still a young man Walter C carried out the action that he felt was suggested in Matthew 19:12, and made himself a eunuch. According to Walter, Laura married him with full knowledge of his condition. However, she eventually divorced him and married someone else. After her remarriage, Walter also married again. The letters in this section reveal Ellen White’s earnest endeavor to protect the sanctity of the marriage commitment even in the face of extremely difficult circumstances.]Matthew 19:13
To Be Like Jesus
Take Your Children to Jesus in Prayer, January 16
BLJ 23.1
Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. Matthew 19:13, NKJV.Matthew 19:13-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 132, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, par. 15
Now, Christ was giving wonderful lessons to His disciples and the mothers came with their children. They came that they might go to Jesus and have His hands laid on them and bless them. Now the disciples says, “You must not disturb the Master, He is giving lessons to this crowd.” Christ caught the words and He said, “Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:13, 14.] What a lesson is that to us! I thank God with my heart and soul and voice that we can put our trust in a higher power and we can be workers together with God. His blessing will rest upon us and will rest upon those that believe in Him.Matthew 19:13-15
That I May Know Him
Lover of Little Children, February 3
TMK 40.1
Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them. Matthew 19:13-15.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 56—Blessing the Children
DA 511.1
Jesus was ever a lover of children. He accepted their childish sympathy and their open, unaffected love. The grateful praise from their pure lips was music in His ears, and refreshed His spirit when oppressed by contact with crafty and hypocritical men. Wherever the Saviour went, the benignity of His countenance, and His gentle, kindly manner won the love and confidence of children.DA 511.2
Among the Jews it was customary for children to be brought to some rabbi, that he might lay his hands upon them in blessing; but the Saviour’s disciples thought His work too important to be interrupted in this way. When the mothers came to Him with their little ones, the disciples looked on them with disfavor. They thought these children too young to be benefited by a visit to Jesus, and concluded that He would be displeased at their presence. But it was the disciples with whom He was displeased. The Saviour understood the care and burden of the mothers who were seeking to train their children according to the word of God. He had heard their prayers. He Himself had drawn them into His presence.DA 511.3
One mother with her child had left her home to find Jesus. On the way she told a neighbor her errand, and the neighbor wanted to have Jesus bless her children. Thus several mothers came together, with their little ones. Some of the children had passed beyond the years of infancy to childhood and youth. When the mothers made known their desire, Jesus heard with sympathy the timid, tearful request. But He waited to see how the disciples would treat them. When He saw them send the mothers away, thinking to do Him a favor, He showed them their error, saying, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” He took the children in His arms, He laid His hands upon them, and gave them the blessing for which they came.DA 512.1
The mothers were comforted. They returned to their homes strengthened and blessed by the words of Christ. They were encouraged to take up their burden with new cheerfulness, and to work hopefully for their children. The mothers of today are to receive His words with the same faith. Christ is as verily a personal Saviour today as when He lived a man among men. He is as verily the helper of mothers today as when He gathered the little ones to His arms in Judea. The children of our hearths are as much the purchase of His blood as were the children of long ago.DA 512.2
Jesus knows the burden of every mother’s heart. He who had a mother that struggled with poverty and privation sympathizes with every mother in her labors. He who made a long journey in order to relieve the anxious heart of a Canaanite woman will do as much for the mothers of today. He who gave back to the widow of Nain her only son, and who in His agony upon the cross remembered His own mother, is touched today by the mother’s sorrow. In every grief and every need He will give comfort and help.DA 512.3
Let mothers come to Jesus with their perplexities. They will find grace sufficient to aid them in the management of their children. The gates are open for every mother who would lay her burdens at the Saviour’s feet. He who said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” still invites the mothers to lead up their little ones to be blessed by Him. Even the babe in its mother’s arms may dwell as under the shadow of the Almighty through the faith of the praying mother. John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit from his birth. If we will live in communion with God, we too may expect the divine Spirit to mold our little ones, even from their earliest moments.DA 512.4
In the children who were brought in contact with Him, Jesus saw the men and women who should be heirs of His grace and subjects of His kingdom, and some of whom would become martyrs for His sake. He knew that these children would listen to Him and accept Him as their Redeemer far more readily than would grown-up people, many of whom were the worldly-wise and hardhearted. In His teaching He came down to their level. He, the Majesty of heaven, did not disdain to answer their questions, and simplify His important lessons to meet their childish understanding. He planted in their minds the seeds of truth, which in after years would spring up, and bear fruit unto eternal life.DA 515.1
It is still true that children are the most susceptible to the teachings of the gospel; their hearts are open to divine influences, and strong to retain the lessons received. The little children may be Christians, having an experience in accordance with their years. They need to be educated in spiritual things, and parents should give them every advantage, that they may form characters after the similitude of the character of Christ.DA 515.2
Fathers and mothers should look upon their children as younger members of the Lord’s family, committed to them to educate for heaven. The lessons that we ourselves learn from Christ we should give to our children, as the young minds can receive them, little by little opening to them the beauty of the principles of heaven. Thus the Christian home becomes a school, where the parents serve as underteachers, while Christ Himself is the chief instructor.DA 515.3
In working for the conversion of our children, we should not look for violent emotion as the essential evidence of conviction of sin. Nor is it necessary to know the exact time when they are converted. We should teach them to bring their sins to Jesus, asking His forgiveness, and believing that He pardons and receives them as He received the children when He was personally on earth.DA 515.4
As the mother teaches her children to obey her because they love her, she is teaching them the first lessons in the Christian life. The mother’s love represents to the child the love of Christ, and the little ones who trust and obey their mother are learning to trust and obey the Saviour.DA 515.5
Jesus was the pattern for children, and He was also the father’s example. He spoke as one having authority, and His word was with power; yet in all His intercourse with rude and violent men He did not use one unkind or discourteous expression. The grace of Christ in the heart will impart a heaven-born dignity and sense of propriety. It will soften whatever is harsh, and subdue all that is coarse and unkind. It will lead fathers and mothers to treat their children as intelligent beings, as they themselves would like to be treated.DA 516.1
Parents, in the training of your children, study the lessons that God has given in nature. If you would train a pink, or rose, or lily, how would you do it? Ask the gardener by what process he makes every branch and leaf to flourish so beautifully, and to develop in symmetry and loveliness. He will tell you that it was by no rude touch, no violent effort; for this would only break the delicate stems. It was by little attentions, often repeated. He moistened the soil, and protected the growing plants from the fierce blasts and from the scorching sun, and God caused them to flourish and to blossom into loveliness. In dealing with your children, follow the method of the gardener. By gentle touches, by loving ministrations, seek to fashion their characters after the pattern of the character of Christ.DA 516.2
Encourage the expression of love toward God and toward one another. The reason why there are so many hardhearted men and women in the world is that true affection has been regarded as weakness, and has been discouraged and repressed. The better nature of these persons was stifled in childhood; and unless the light of divine love shall melt away their cold selfishness, their happiness will be forever ruined. If we wish our children to possess the tender spirit of Jesus, and the sympathy that angels manifest for us, we must encourage the generous, loving impulses of childhood.DA 516.3
Teach the children to see Christ in nature. Take them out into the open air, under the noble trees, into the garden; and in all the wonderful works of creation teach them to see an expression of His love. Teach them that He made the laws which govern all living things, that He has made laws for us, and that these laws are for our happiness and joy. Do not weary them with long prayers and tedious exhortations, but through nature’s object lessons teach them obedience to the law of God.DA 517.1
As you win their confidence in you as followers of Christ, it will be easy to teach them of the great love wherewith He has loved us. As you try to make plain the truths of salvation, and point the children to Christ as a personal Saviour, angels will be by your side. The Lord will give to fathers and mothers grace to interest their little ones in the precious story of the Babe of Bethlehem, who is indeed the hope of the world.DA 517.2
When Jesus told the disciples not to forbid the children to come to Him, He was speaking to His followers in all ages,—to officers of the church, to ministers, helpers, and all Christians. Jesus is drawing the children, and He bids us, Suffer them to come; as if He would say, They will come if you do not hinder them.DA 517.3
Let not your un-Christlike character misrepresent Jesus. Do not keep the little ones away from Him by your coldness and harshness. Never give them cause to feel that heaven will not be a pleasant place to them if you are there. Do not speak of religion as something that children cannot understand, or act as if they were not expected to accept Christ in their childhood. Do not give them the false impression that the religion of Christ is a religion of gloom, and that in coming to the Saviour they must give up all that makes life joyful.DA 517.4
As the Holy Spirit moves upon the hearts of the children, co-operate with His work. Teach them that the Saviour is calling them, that nothing can give Him greater joy than for them to give themselves to Him in the bloom and freshness of their years.DA 517.5
The Saviour regards with infinite tenderness the souls whom He has purchased with His own blood. They are the claim of His love. He looks upon them with unutterable longing. His heart is drawn out, not only to the best-behaved children, but to those who have by inheritance objectionable traits of character. Many parents do not understand how much they are responsible for these traits in their children. They have not the tenderness and wisdom to deal with the erring ones whom they have made what they are. But Jesus looks upon these children with pity. He traces from cause to effect.DA 517.6
The Christian worker may be Christ’s agent in drawing these children to the Saviour. By wisdom and tact he may bind them to his heart, he may give them courage and hope, and through the grace of Christ may see them transformed in character, so that of them it may be said, “Of such is the kingdom of God.”From Heaven With Love
Chapter 56—Jesus’ Love for Children
HLv 342.1
Jesus was a lover of children. He accepted their childish sympathy and open, unaffected love. The grateful praise from their lips refreshed His spirit when oppressed by contact with crafty and hypocritical men. Wherever He went, His gentle, kindly manner won their confidence.HLv 342.2
It was customary for children to be brought to some rabbi, that he might lay his hands on them in blessing. But when the mothers came to Him with their little ones, the disciples looked on them with disfavor. They thought these children too young to be benefited by a visit to Jesus, and concluded that He would be displeased. But it was the disciples with whom He was displeased. The Saviour understood the burden of the mothers who were seeking to train their children. He Himself had drawn them into His presence.HLv 342.3
Several mothers came together, with their little ones, to have Jesus bless their children. Jesus heard with sympathy their timid, tearful request. But He waited to see how the disciples would treat them. When He saw them send the mothers away, He showed them their error, saying, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” He took the children in His arms and gave them the blessing for which they came.HLv 342.4
The mothers were strengthened by the words of Christ, and were encouraged to take up their burden with new cheerfulness. The mothers of today are to receive His words with the same faith. Christ is a personal Saviour, and is as verily the helper of mothers today as when He gathered the little ones in His arms in Judea.HLv 343.1
Jesus knows the burden of every mother’s heart. He made a long journey to relieve the anxious heart of a Canaanite woman. He gave back to the widow of Nain her only son, and in His agony on the cross He remembered His own mother. He is touched today by the mother’s sorrow. In every grief and need He will give comfort and help.HLv 343.2
He who said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” still invites mothers to lead their little ones to be blessed by Him. Even the babe in its mother’s arms may dwell as under the shadow of the Almighty through the faith of the praying mother. John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit from his birth. If we will live in communion with God, we too may expect the divine Spirit to mold our little ones, even from their earliest moments.HLv 343.3
Jesus saw that some of the children who were brought in contact with Him would become martyrs for His sake. These children would accept Him as their Redeemer far more readily than many grown-up people. The Majesty of heaven answered their questions and simplified His important lessons to meet their childish understanding.HLv 343.4
Children are still the most susceptible to the teachings of the gospel; their hearts are strong to retain the lessons received. Little children may be Christians, in accordance with their years.HLv 343.5
Fathers and mothers should look on their children as younger members of the Lord’s family, committed to them to educate for heaven. The Christian home becomes a school, with the parents as underteachers and Christ Himself the chief instructor. We should teach our children to bring their sins to Jesus, asking forgiveness and believing that He pardons them as He received the children when He was personally on earth.HLv 344.1
As the mother teaches her children to obey her because they love her, she is teaching them the first lesson in the Christian life. The mother’s love represents to the child the love of Christ, and the little ones who trust and obey their mother are learning to trust and obey the Saviour.HLv 344.2
Jesus was also the father’s example. His word was with power; yet even with rude and violent men He did not use one unkind or discourteous expression. The grace of Christ in the heart will soften whatever is harsh and subdue all that is coarse and unkind. It will lead fathers and mothers to treat their children as they themselves would like to be treated.HLv 344.3
Parents, in training your children, study the lessons God has given in nature. If you would train a rose or lily, how would you do it? Ask the gardener how he makes every branch and leaf to develop in symmetry and loveliness. He will tell you: it was by no rude touch, no violent effort; this would only break the delicate stems. It was by little attentions, often repeated. He moistened the soil and protected the growing plants from the fierce blasts and scorching sun, and God caused them to blossom into loveliness. By gentle touches, seek to fashion the characters of your children after the pattern of the character of Christ.HLv 344.4
Encourage the expression of love toward God and toward one another. The reason why there are so many hardhearted men and women in the world is that true affection has been discouraged and repressed. The better nature of these persons was stifled in childhood; and unless divine love shall melt away their cold selfishness, their happiness will be forever ruined. If we wish our children to possess the tender spirit of Jesus, we must encourage the generous, loving impulses of childhood.HLv 344.5
Teach the children to see Christ in nature. Take them out into the open air, under the noble trees, into the garden. In all the wonderful works of creation teach them to see His love. He made the laws which govern all living things, and He has made laws for our happiness and joy. Do not weary them with long prayers and tedious exhortations, but through nature’s object lessons teach them obedience to the law of God.HLv 345.1
As you try to make plain the truths of salvation, point the children to Christ as a personal Saviour. Angels will be by your side. The Lord will give to fathers and mothers grace to interest their little ones in the precious story of the Babe in Bethlehem.HLv 345.2
Do not keep the little ones away from Jesus by coldness and harshness. Never give them cause to feel that heaven will not be a pleasant place if you are there. Do not speak of religion as something that children cannot understand. Do not give the false impression that the religion of Christ is a religion of gloom and that in coming to the Saviour they must give up all that makes life joyful.HLv 345.3
As the Holy Spirit moves upon the hearts of the children, cooperate with His work. The Saviour is calling them. Nothing can give Him greater joy than for them to give themselves to Him in the bloom and freshness of their years. His heart is drawn out, not only to the best-behaved children, but to those who have by inheritance objectionable traits of character. Many parents have not the tenderness and wisdom to deal with the erring children whom they have made what they are. But Jesus looks upon these children with pity.HLv 345.4
Be Christ’s agent in drawing these children to the Saviour. By wisdom and tact give them courage and hope. Through the grace of Christ they may be transformed in character, so that of them it may be said, “Of such is the kingdom of God.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 7, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 7, 1912, par. 1
“Then were there brought unto Him little children, that He should put His hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And He laid His hands on them, and departed thence.” [Matthew 19:13-15.]25LtMs, Ms 7, 1912, par. 3
The Saviour’s tenderness in dealing with these weary mothers should bring courage to the hearts of all mothers today, leading them to put their trust in heaven. It is the privilege of every mother to bring her children to Jesus. He is just as willing now as He was then to receive and bless those who come to Him. He is still saying, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 14.]25LtMs, Ms 7, 1912, par. 5
“Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me.” [Verse 14.] Mothers may think of these words as in the name of Jesus they pray to God in behalf of their children, asking for a continuation of His blessing and favors. The prayers of believing parents are heard in heaven, and such parents are given wisdom to train their children in the way of righteousness. The promise has been made, and this promise God is fully able to fulfil.Matthew 19:14
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Christ as the Example and Teacher of Youth
CT 180.2
Parents and teachers, Jesus is still saying, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me.” Matthew 19:14. They are the most susceptible to the teachings of Christianity; their hearts are open to influences of piety and virtue, and strong to retain the impressions received.—Special Testimonies On Education, 62-66; written May 17, 1896.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 16, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 16, 1895, par. 27
Teach your children of the Saviour’s life, death, and resurrection. Teach them to study the Bible. It should be the educator in all our schools. Teach them to form characters that will live through the eternal ages. We must pray as we never have before that God will keep and bless our children. When Christ was here upon earth, He gladly received the children, and we must teach our children that today He is ready to take them to Himself. “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 24, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 24, 1895, par. 16
It is the duty of parents to teach their children to be missionaries. You claim to be servants of the living God. Are you giving to the younger members of the Lord’s family the care which they should have in their character building? Do you feel the burden of bringing them to Christ as in the days of Christ, when mothers came with their children to Jesus? The disciples would have sent these mothers away, but that Saviour who had been a child Himself, and who in His childhood had hungered after sympathy, watched the mothers as they travelled the dusty road in order to bring their children to Him, and He said to the disciples, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Would that mothers could believe that and would surround their children with care and hallowed influences, keeping away every association that has a tendency to corrupt them. Would that they might bring their children in prayer to the Master, pleading with Him for help to train them for the courts above. By doing this, they would be laying up treasure in heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 63, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 11
I addressed words especially to the children and the youth, and I know that many understood the message of God, and invitation from Jesus to these children, as I told them that Jesus received children that the mothers brought unto Him, and was much displeased with His disciples because they forbade the mothers coming to Christ to disturb Him as He was teaching. But Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He took little children in His arms and put His hands upon them, and blessed them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 58, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 58, 1895, par. 9
On Thursday evening I again spoke the message of truth to the people, especially dwelling upon the truth that is appropriate to these last days. Believers and unbelievers seemed greatly interested. There were those listening who were children of God, who were seeking to obey His commandments. They came from their humble homes, bringing their little children with them; but not one eyelid drooped in slumber. Every eye was directed toward the speaker, and they manifested wholehearted interest. I addressed words to the children and youth that were especially adapted to them, and I believe that many of the little ones understood the invitation of Jesus. I spoke to them from the words that Jesus addressed to His disciples when the mothers brought their little ones to Him, and when they rebuked them for troubling Christ with the children. Christ had said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] He took the little children in His arms and put His hands upon them and blessed them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 5, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, par. 14
Dress your children plainly, setting them an example in your own simple, tasteful dress. It is your work, as parents, to form their characters, that they may be accepted by God. Teach them that Jesus will receive and bless them in their earliest years. It is not essential that all shall be able to specify to a certainty when their sins were forgiven. The lesson to be taught the children is that their errors and mistakes are to be brought to Jesus in the very childhood of life. Teach them to ask His forgiveness <daily> for any wrong <that they have> done, and that Jesus does hear <the simple prayers of the penitent heart,> and <will> pardon, and receive them, just as He received the children brought to Him when He was upon earth. The disciples objected to these children being brought, but Jesus said, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Never allow your children to suppose that they are not children of God until they are old enough to be baptized. Baptism does not make children Christians, neither does it convert them; it is but an outward sign, showing that they are sensible that they should be children of God by acknowledging that they believe in Jesus Christ as their Saviour <and will henceforth live for Christ.>Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 124, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 124, 1897, par. 2
You now have a double responsibility, because your husband has turned his face away from Jesus. As a mother, your work is to bring your children to the Master. When Christ was upon earth, and the mothers brought their children to Him, the disciples were about to send them away, but Jesus rebuked the disciples, saying, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 107, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 107, 1898, par. 8
Encouragement should be given to the precious lambs of the flock. Said the Majesty of heaven, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] He does not send those children to <learned> rabbis. He does not send them to the Pharisees. He says, The mothers who have brought their children to me have done well. “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Then let the mothers accept the invitation, and lead their children to Christ. Let the ministers of the gospel take the children in their arms and bless them. In the name of Jesus let words of tenderness and love be spoken to the little ones, because Christ took the lambs of the flock in His arms and blessed them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 32, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 32, 1899, par. 15
But, you ask, shall I never punish my child? Whipping may be essential when every other resort fails; but before you cause your child physical pain, you will, if you are a Christian father or mother, reveal the love you have for your erring little one. You will manifest real sorrow because you are compelled to cause him suffering. You will bow before God with your child, and with a heart full of sorrow ask the Lord to forgive. Pray that Satan may not have control of his mind. Present before the sympathizing Redeemer His own words, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] That prayer will bring angels to your side, and your child’s heart will be broken in penitence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 96, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, par. 25
Christ gave lessons suited to all phases of life, all classes of work. The children were not forgotten by Him. Hearing the stern, forbidding words of the disciples to the weary mothers who had brought their children to receive His blessing, He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He laid His hands on them and blessed them, and took them up in His arms, where, wearied by their journey, they fell asleep, drawn close to His heart of infinite love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 65, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, par. 17
These smaller children will be influenced by the words and spirit of the older students. God has placed us in this world to help one another. He wants the older students to help the younger ones. Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] He desires these little children to love Him. He desires those who are older to speak to them words that will be a blessing and a help. Students, improve the opportunity given you to speak words that will point those around you to the Saviour. Do not allow your minds to dwell upon trivial things. Do not speak words you would not be willing to utter in the presence of Jesus and the angels. Could the curtain be rolled back, you would see heavenly angels watching you. They must watch; it is their work to be guardians for the youth. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” [Hebrews 1:14.] Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of angels minister to the youth in our world.My Life Today
Work for the Children, August 12
ML 228.1
But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 77, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 77, 1903, par. 3
“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [Psalm 103:13.] The strength of the Lord is revealed by His gentleness and condescension and by His incarnation. He was “God manifest in the flesh.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] Think of the love He manifested in receiving so kindly the mothers that the disciples would have sent away when they came bringing their children to Him that He might lay His hands on them and bless them. “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” He said to the disciples; “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 72, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 72, 1903, par. 14
Listen to the words that He spoke as the weary mothers brought their children to Him to be blessed. The disciples, unwilling that their Master should be disturbed, were sending the mothers away. But Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And taking them in His arms, He blessed them. Could the future of these children be opened before us, we would see the mothers recalling to their minds the scene of that day and repeating to them the loving words of the Saviour. We would see, too, how often, in after years, the memory of these words kept them from straying from the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 189, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, par. 5
You remember how the mothers brought their children to Jesus, that He might bless them. At first there were only one or two mothers. They were joined by others, and when they reached Jesus, there were quite a number of mothers and children. They were weary and dusty, but O so anxious to come into Christ’s presence and receive His blessing. Christ had watched these mothers and their little ones all along the way. He heard the disciples forbidding them to come to Him, and He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He took the children in His arms, close to His great heart of love, and blessed them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 167, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 25
There was one mother who felt the great burden upon her of bringing up her children. She said, I had heard the Master is where we can find Him. Now I am going to Him. And she went there over the dusty roads. She met her neighbors and they asked where she was going. I am going to meet Jesus who gives peace and comfort, and heals sorrows and afflictions. “Well,” they say, “that is just what we want, we will go too.” And they had quite a little army that was travelling, ready to come where Christ was. And when they came to where He was teaching the multitudes—Christ had watched them all the way, and He was waiting to hear about their reception. The disciples said, “The Master cannot be troubled. He is teaching; there are many people here, and He cannot be troubled.” He caught the words, and He said, “Forbid them not. Suffer little children to come ... of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 140, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 17
What we want is to take our children right under our own guardianship in their childhood, and then to educate and train them; and you will not have to beat them if you give them the first lessons in obedience, and you can have a little heaven here below. And if you will train these children—that little church in your home—you are fitting them up, keep their attention in their babyhood right upon a Higher Power, Jesus, the Lover of our souls. Tell them that He took little children in His arms, and He blessed them; and when the disciples would send them away, why, Christ’s mind had followed them all along. On that occasion of those mothers with their children, as the disappointment came upon those mothers, Christ spoke. He said, “Forbid not these little children coming unto Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 182, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 182, 1907, par. 15
Here are these little ones, and when Christ was upon the earth, He was giving the disciples important instruction, but He was watching something. His all-seeing eye took in the mothers as they left their homes, and trod the dusty streets, and collected from one family and another family and another, until there was quite a group of mothers and children, so anxious to get where they could have the hand of Christ placed upon the heads of their children to bless them. They brought them in during His discourse, and as they brought them up to the entrance He heard a “No, no, the Master is teaching. He cannot be troubled with these children,” and the disciples were sending them away. [Matthew 19:14.] His ear caught the sound in a moment.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 197, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 197, 1907, par. 32
I think, Brother Burden, that your arranging to have the school of two grades is good. Now the ones that are teaching in the higher school, some of those could teach the lower school, so that the children can be taken care of. The children must be taken care of. When the children were brought to Christ, the disciples sent them away. “The Master is teaching.” He caught it. He had seen those mothers bringing their children through the dusty roads, and He told the disciples, said He, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Now we must think of this. We must educate, educate, educate, and the blessing of God will rest upon us in doing so.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 61, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 61, 1907, par. 17
Here are younger children. Christ loves you. When the mothers brought the little children to Jesus that He might place His hands on them in blessing, the disciples were going to send them away. The Master was giving important lessons to the people, and the disciples thought He should not be disturbed. Jesus heard their words. Said He, “Forbid them not.” “Suffer little children, and forbid them not to come to Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 189, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 189, 1907, par. 12
How the mothers lead their children to Christ! They felt sure if they led them to Jesus, they should ever keep in mind the instructions that He would give them. So the mother starts with her children and the neighbors unite with her, and they come, quite a company of them, come to Christ. Well, what did He do with them? Here the mothers with their children were crowding around to hear and to be healed, and the disciples thought that Christ ought not to be disturbed, and they were sending the mothers away. Christ was watching, and He said, “Suffer little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 101, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 101, 1908, par. 7
This is an object lesson of the work that the Saviour desires to do through His followers. He wants us to take the blessed Word, to study it, and then to teach it in its simplicity. How simple Christ’s lessons were; even the children could understand them. The people of His own nation, those who professed to believe in God, were greatly incensed against Him; because by the simplicity of His daily teachings, He was removing the rubbish that was hiding the truth from the comprehension of the people. Even the most ignorant could take in the truths He taught, and be comforted and blessed thereby. Mothers, hearing and seeing His words and works, desired that their children might come to Him to be blessed. On one occasion one mother with her children left their home to find the Saviour. On the way they told others of their desire; and as they pursued their journey, mother after mother with their little ones joined the company until, when they reached the place where the Saviour was, there was a little army of women and children who sought to reach His side. He was ministering the Word to the people, and healing the sick; and when the women made known their errand, the disciples told them that the Master must not be disturbed. But Christ had heard the petition of the mothers, and at once His heart responded to their desire. He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Selected Messages Book 3
Will Children of Unbelieving Parents Be Saved?
3SM 314.2
God sent a word of comfort to the bereaved mothers of Bethlehem that the weeping Rachels should see their children coming from the land of the enemy. Christ took little children in His arms and blessed them and rebuked the disciples who would send away the mothers, saying, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 39, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, par. 6
To have the higher education is to have a living connection with Christ. The Saviour took the unlearned fishermen from their boats and their fishing nets and connected them with Himself as He traveled from place to place, teaching the people, and ministering to their needs. Sitting down on a rock or on some elevated place, He would gather His disciples about Him and give them instruction, and before long hundreds of people would be listening to His words. There are many men and women who suppose that they know all that is worthy knowing, when they greatly need to sit humbly at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him who gave His life that He might redeem a fallen world. We all need Christ—the One who left the royal courts, laying off His kingly robe and crown and His majesty in the heavens, and clothing Himself with humanity. The Son of God came as a little babe, that He might understand the experience of humanity and know how to deal with them. He knows the wants of the children. In the days of His earthly ministry, He would not allow them to be forbidden to come to Him. “Send them not away,” He said to His disciples; “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 116, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, par. 10
I am so thankful when I consider that when mothers did not know what to do with their children, they said, “We will take them to Jesus. We have heard that if we bring them to Christ, that He will bless them. I am going to take my children to Christ, and here are my neighbors. I want them also to go with me.” Well, there was quite a company there with their children. Christ was teaching in the temple, and these children were brought in; and the disciples began to send them away. They did not want the Saviour disturbed. But Christ caught the words, and He said: “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He takes the little children in His arms, and upon His knees, and then Christ speaks to them in words of comfort, and the mothers go back to their homes. Do you think that they ever forgot the lessons that Christ taught there? He said to His disciples, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 121, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, par. 23
There were mothers leaving their homes, and it does not say whether they had a father or not, but they went to see Jesus. They were so troubled and worried to know what to do, and if they could get a blessing from Jesus, O, they thought, how it would help them. So the mothers gathered children as they went along, mothers and children, and they came. Here Christ was, teaching a large crowd of people, and the disciples forbade them. Why, said they, the Master is teaching, He cannot be interrupted in His work. Christ caught the words, and He turned, and He rose upon His feet, and He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, par. 26
He took these little children, when the mothers brought them, and encircled them in His arms, “Suffer the little children to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 14.] Fathers and mothers, don’t speak a cross word to your children. Do not speak words that will discourage them. They are little children; they are not grown up. They need to be educated and trained at every step, and they want an example set before them of the father and mother in every respect. And if they are corrected, let it be in kindness and tenderness, that it is to save their souls. The little children were clinging to the knees of Christ, and their ways were around His neck. Just think how the Saviour felt, and you try to feel just as He felt. Bring them to the Saviour. He died for them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 129, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, par. 2
After travelling a long and dusty way to get to where Christ was, the disciples were sending them away. “Why, this is not the place. You should not bring your children here, Christ is teaching.” He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] There is a lesson that He taught the disciples that He wants every one of us to carry out; they are principles of love, and those are the principles of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 69, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 69, 1911, par. 8
In Christ’s day the mothers concluded that they would go and find Him. They would go where Jesus was. They felt so sorry and hopeless, so they gathered up their children, first one neighbor and then another joining them. And when they came to Christ, the disciples said, You must not disturb the Master; He is giving us a lesson. Christ turned around, and said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Then He had the children, one in each arm and another clinging to His limbs, and there He blessed those children and talked to them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 81, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 81, 1910, par. 31
When the Master was upon earth, upon one occasion they brought the children to Him. We cannot tell what the burden was that was upon the mothers but they felt that they could not bear the trouble any longer, so one family after another gathered up their children, and they would meet their neighbors and tell them where they were going, and another and another would join them. And when they came up, there was Christ teaching and educating in the field. Do you suppose He did not know who was coming to Him? The disciples were sending them away, saying that the Master could not be troubled. Here He is giving a discourse to the people. Christ catches it, and He says, “Forbid them not. Let the children come to Me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 86, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 86, 1910, par. 32
Every one of your children could be educated to recognize that the Lord Jesus will cleanse them from all sin. When the parents dropped the burden, when He was upon the earth, they felt their need of help. One family after another came and united together. They came to where Jesus was, and Jesus knew all about when they had left their homes. After they had walked on their long way, the disciples were sending them away. But Christ is teaching this company that is here. He cannot be interrupted. “Forbid them not,” says Christ. “Let the children come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]The Faith I Live By
Little Children May Be Christians, September 21
FLB 270.1
Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:14.The Upward Look
Christ’s Life Touched People, February 12
UL 57.1
Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 1, 1860
1LtMs, Ms 1, 1860, par. 2
It is pitiful to witness the suffering of the child, which we cannot relieve. Our arms are too short to save it. We trust it in the arms of Jesus, who said, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] We earnestly desire the restoration of the child. Oh, that we all may be reconciled to the will of God!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 86, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 86, 1894, par. 24
We want a life after this life of sin and sorrow and affliction shall close. I point you to Jesus; I point you to His Word. I will say to you that if you will educate and train your children here for the future immortal life, who do you have to help you? Jesus Christ. “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] This is our work, and then what, fathers and mothers? You have the children entrusted to your God to help you in the missionary efforts. Every soul that has tasted of the love of God, every soul that has given their life to Jesus Christ, everyone of these souls, why they are to be prepared with refinement of character, they are to be refined to holiness, to purity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 89, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 89, 1894, par. 13
O what rays of softness and beauty shone forth in the daily life of our Saviour, and were revealed in all the associations which He cherished! There never was so perfect an illustration of genuine courtesy as that which was exemplified in the life of Jesus. He bids parents to come unto Him, and learn of Him; for He is meek and lowly of heart. He says to the children, “Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Send them not to the rabbis, send them not to the Pharisees, but take the little children to Jesus for instruction and discipline.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 12, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 12, 1895, par. 28
Well, the disciples see the little flock coming, and they are very much displeased about it, and they say, What right have they to come here and trouble Christ when He is giving these important lessons? And they forbid them to come to the presence of Christ. He caught that sound; He followed those mothers all the way. He knew all their hearts and purposes, and He was very much displeased with the disciples; and He said, Suffer little children to come to me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of Heaven [Matthew 19:14]—just such simplicity as those children have; and those children would be representatives of Jesus Christ. He knew their history, and as He placed His hands on their heads and blessed them, as He encircles the little ones, they fall sweet into His arms, and yet He reaches for those who are around Him.Matthew 19:16
The Review and Herald
May 20, 1862
RH May 20, 1862, par. 9
The young man came to Jesus and said unto him [Matthew 19:16.], “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” Jesus gave him his choice, to part with his possessions and have eternal life, or retain them, and lose it. His riches were of greater value to him than the heavenly treasure. The condition, that he must part with his treasures, and give to the poor, in order to be a follower of Christ, and have eternal life, chilled his desire, and he went away sorrowful.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
True and False Riches
1TT 127.1
“If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” Verse 23. There was a point of time in the experience of such, when the light given them was not cherished, and it became darkness. Said the angel: “Ye cannot love and worship the treasures of earth, and have the true riches.” When the young man came to Jesus and said to Him, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16) Jesus gave him his choice, to part with his possessions and have eternal life, or retain them and lose it. His riches were of greater value to him than the heavenly treasure. The condition that he must part with his treasures and give to the poor in order to become a follower of Christ and have eternal life, chilled his desire; and he went away sorrowful.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 137, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 137, 1899, par. 2
I had an appointment to speak at Hamilton on Sabbath and in the park at Wallsend on Sunday. On Sabbath a congregation of nearly one hundred assembled in the hall at Hamilton. I spoke on the subject of the young man who came to Christ, and falling on his knees before Him, asked, “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life.” [Matthew 19:16.] I had freedom in speaking, and after I had finished, I remained for the testimony meeting which was held. Many good testimonies were borne.Matthew 19:16-17
Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]
MR No. 318—The Christian Pathway
5MR 260.1
The young man came to Christ and asked, “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” The answer was, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments” [Matthew 19:16, 17]. The same answer was given to the lawyer, and the lawyer told Him that the law told him to “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” And Christ said unto him, “Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live” [Luke 10:27, 28]. So you have the whole duty laid down, and that is to keep the commandments if you expect to have eternal life. What was lost through Adam by disobedience must be brought back by obedience.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 84, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 84, 1886, par. 24
When the lawyer came to Christ and asked, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” the answer was, “Keep the commandments.” [Luke 10:25-28; Matthew 19:16, 17.] Here a positive question is asked by the lawyer, and he receives just as positive an answer. You must give your powers to God. “Well,” said a doctor who was trying to bring my mind down to earth, “you will be unfitted for this earth if you try to put all your strength into the service of God.” “Is that so, Doctor? Since I was sixteen I have been traveling east and west and north and south and have seen hundreds converted, and does this unfit me for a connection with the earth? When we have a right hold upon heaven we shall represent the love of Christ to the perishing sinner.” The doctor said, “It is those who are in the dance hall that have called for Mrs. White to come and pray for them.” They don’t call for those who are pleasure lovers, but for those who know what it is to offer up their prayers in faith to God; and when we have an intelligent knowledge of Jesus Christ and His religion, then it is that we can be a blessing to those around us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 38, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 38, 1886, par. 10
The young man came to Christ and asked, “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” The answer was, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:16, 17. The same answer was given to the lawyer, and the lawyer told Him that the law told him to “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” And Christ said unto him, “Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” Luke 10:27, 28. So you have the whole duty laid down, and that is to keep the commandments if you expect to have eternal life. What was lost through Adam by disobedience must be brought back by obedience.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 57, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 57, 1900, par. 17
The condition of salvation is plainly stated: “Behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is God; but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 317a, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, par. 14
“And, behold, one came and said unto Him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:16, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 141, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 141, 1906, par. 42
Matthew 19:16, 17 quoted. Then He tells them it is for the hardness of their heart. But if they had kept the commandments of God, they would have lived in harmony and peace and love, and these differences would not have taken place. It is because of the disregard of God’s commandments that the world is rushing right on to their last ruin. And God wants that we should warn the people, that they should avoid the wrath of God. He wants us to keep the commandments of God.Matthew 19:16-18
Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 66, 1899
2SAT 137.3
We are to strive most earnestly to place mind, soul, and body in the best condition for God’s service. When the lawyer asked Christ what he should do to inherit eternal life, Christ said, “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” The lawyer said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy strength and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself.” “Thou hast answered right,” said the great Teacher, “This do, and thou shalt live.” [See Matthew 19:16-18.]Matthew 19:16-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 63, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 63, 1893, par. 24
Judas had come to Christ in the same spirit of self-righteousness, and if he had asked “What lack I yet?” Jesus would have answered, “Keep the commandments” [Matthew 19:16, 17, 20], for Judas was selfish, covetous, and a thief; yet he was numbered with the disciples. He was defective in character, and he failed to practice the words of Christ. He braced his soul to resist the influence of the truth, and while he practiced criticizing and condemning others, he neglected his own soul, and cherished and strengthened his natural evil traits of character until he became so hardened that he could sell his Lord for thirty pieces of silver.Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
Two weeks of public evangelism at Nimes, France
EGWE 239.2
Sabbath, October 16, “If Thou Wilt Enter Into Life,” Matthew 19:16-20 Sunday, October 17, “Come Unto Me,” Matthew 11:28-30 Monday, October 18, “Walk in the Light,” John 14:21 Wednesday, October 20, “The Ladder to Heaven,” 2 Peter 1:1 Thursday, October 21, “Search the Scriptures,” 2 Peter 1:19-21 Friday, October 22, “The Cross Before the Crown,” Matthew 16:24-27 Sabbath, October 23, “God’s Law the Standard of Character,” John 7:14-17. Sunday, October 24, “The Hope Set Before Us,” 1 John 3:1 Sabbath, October 30, “Two Standards,” 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 Sunday, October 31, “Gaining a Fitness for Heaven,” Luke 12:34.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 62, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 62, 1894, par. 11
The young man who came to Jesus asked what he should do that he might inherit eternal life. Jesus told him to keep the commandments, and enumerated several of the precepts of the law. The young man said, “All these have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” [Matthew 19:16-20.] The first four commandments enjoin upon man the duty of loving God supremely and the last six present the requirement of loving our neighbors as ourselves. How many are truly, sincerely, and wholeheartedly doing this? The Lord is coming in a little while, and are we performing the duties that result from righteousness? Love is the basis of godliness.Matthew 19:16-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 160, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 160, 1899, par. 2
Please remember that while the Lord indicates what is the duty of His children, He never compels them. To the young ruler who came to Him with the question, “What good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” He said, “Keep the commandments.” The ruler said, “All these have I kept from my youth up. What lack I yet?” Jesus answered, “Go and sell all that thou hast, and give to the poor; and come, follow me; and thou shalt have treasure in heaven.” [Matthew 19:16, 17, 20, 21.] When the ruler heard these words, he turned sorrowfully away, for he had great riches.14LtMs, Lt 160, 1899, par. 7
I am sorry that in some of your children you have unwise advisers. They do not counsel you to keep the way of the Lord. Had Christ said to you, “Go, sell all that thou hast, and come, follow me, and ye shall have treasure in heaven,” you would have glorified God in obeying. [See Matthew 19:21.] But by leaguing with others in a wrong way you are taking steps in the same path with them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 3, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 3, 1897, par. 2
“And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” This question was a very important one to this young ruler, for his entire present and future eternal interests were here involved. Christ made answer: “Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God; but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness. Honor thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Matthew 19:16-19.]12LtMs, Lt 3, 1897, par. 3
This rich young ruler was apparently in earnest. He had seen the love and tenderness of Christ in receiving and blessing little children; he had beheld Christ’s self-denial in lifting the cross, and he was stirred with deep conviction. Running to Christ, he knelt before Him, and poured forth his great desire. “All these things,” he said, “have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come and follow me.” [Verses 20, 21.]12LtMs, Lt 3, 1897, par. 11
He who was rich in all the treasures of heaven, possessing authority in the heavenly courts, for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. All is the Lord’s. No human being can claim any earthly treasure as his own, or in any way exalt himself. As the giver of man’s means and talents, God lays His authoritative hand upon his earthly possessions, and plainly tells him his duty. “Sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and take thy cross, and follow me.” [See Matthew 19:21; Mark 10:21.] He does not specify every particular. If the ruler had inquired farther, Christ would have been his Counsellor. In laying his riches at the feet of Jesus, to whom all belongs, he would do no more than his duty: and in doing this he would place all his riches in the savings bank of heaven.12LtMs, Lt 3, 1897, par. 13
Christ invited the young ruler, “Come and follow me.” [Matthew 19:21.] This lesson is for the benefit of every soul. In giving, there is ever an increase in the heavenly treasure for both rich and poor. Every obedient child of God is an heir of God, and joint heir with Christ. We are all choosing for time and for eternity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 58, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 20
When in answer to the inquiry, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Jesus bade the rich young man, “Sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, ... and come and follow me,” (Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 19:16-21), He was but presenting that which, in the conversation with His disciples, He declared to be the great test at the final judgment. For the spirit of love and self-sacrifice is the touchstone of the character. “He that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” 1 John 4:20.Matthew 19:16-22
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 17—The Call of Elisha
PK 221.1
Similar to the call that came to Elisha was the answer given by Christ to the young ruler who asked Him the question, “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” “If thou wilt be perfect,” Christ replied, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” Matthew 19:16, 21.PK 221.2
Elisha accepted the call to service, casting no backward glance at the pleasures and comforts he was leaving. The young ruler, when he heard the Saviour’s words, “went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” Verse 22. He was not willing to make the sacrifice. His love for his possessions was greater than his love for God. By his refusal to renounce all for Christ, he proved himself unworthy of a place in the Master’s service.From Splendor to Shadow
A Young Man Who Rejected Christ’s Call to Service
SS 118.1
Similar to the call that came to Elisha was the answer given by Christ to the young ruler who asked Him, “What good thing must I do, that I may have eternal life?” “If thou wilt be perfect,” Christ replied, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” Matthew 19:16, 21.SS 118.2
Elisha accepted the call, casting no backward glance at the pleasures and comforts he was leaving. The young ruler “went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” Verse 22. His love for his possessions was greater than his love for God. He proved himself unworthy of a place in the Master’s service.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 8, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 24
This corresponds with the instruction given to the multitude in answer to the lawyer’s question, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” [Luke 10:25.] The same answer was given to the young ruler who asked a similar question, “Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? And he said unto him, ... If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” Then by quoting the precepts of Jehovah He showed that He referred to the ten holy precepts. The young man claimed to have kept all these, and asked, “What lack I yet?” [Matthew 19:16-20.]10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 25
Jesus then pointed him to duties he had not done, which the law of God plainly specified—to love God supremely, and his neighbor as himself. “Jesus said unto him, If you wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Verses 21, 22.] This man loved his possessions above God and his service, and more than the souls of his fellow men. Riches were his idol. Then let none say that there are no conditions to salvation. There are decided conditions, and everyone is put to the strenuous task of diligently inquiring and searching for the truth from God’s Word.A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 5—When Doing Everything Right Isn’t Enough
CSA 14.1
And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. Matthew 19:16-22.A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
To the “Little Flock”
ExV 30.1
As I viewed poor souls dying for want of the present truth, and some who professed to believe the truth were letting them die, by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to remove it from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for some of their property, like the young man who came to Jesus, [Matthew 19:16-22.] they went away sorrowful; and that soon the overflowing scourge would pass over and sweep their possessions all away, and then it would be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up a treasure in heaven.Special Testimony to Our Ministers—No. 2
Further Comments and Extracts
SpTA02a 30.1
“As I viewed poor souls dying for want of the present truth, and some who professed to believe the truth were letting them die, by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to remove it from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for some of their property, like the young man who came to Jesus (Matthew 19:16-22), they went away sorrowful; and that soon the overflowing scourge would pass over and sweep their possessions all away, and then it would be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up a treasure in heaven.The Present Truth
April 1, 1850
PT April 1, 1850, par. 3
As I viewed poor souls dying for want of the present truth, and some who professed to believe the truth were letting them die, by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to remove it from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for some of their property, like the young man who came to Jesus, [Matthew 19:16-22.] they went away sorrowful; and that soon the overflowing scourge would pass over and sweep their possessions all away, and then it would be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up a treasure in heaven.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 57—The Rich Young Ruler Lacked One Thing
HLv 346.1
“And when He was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”HLv 346.2
This young man, a ruler, had great possessions and a position of responsibility. He saw the love Christ manifested toward the children, and his heart kindled with love for the Saviour. He was so deeply moved that He ran after Christ and, kneeling at His feet, asked with sincerity and earnestness the question so important to his soul and to every human being.HLv 346.3
“Why callest thou Me good?” said Christ, “there is none good but One, that is, God.” Jesus desired to draw from him the way in which he regarded Him as good. Did he realize that the One to whom he was speaking was the Son of God? What was the true sentiment of his heart?HLv 346.4
This ruler had a high estimate of his own righteousness, yet he felt the want of something he did not possess. Could Jesus bless him and satisfy his soul want?HLv 346.5
In reply, Jesus told him that obedience to the commandments of God was necessary if he would obtain eternal life. The ruler’s answer was positive: “All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?”HLv 346.6
Christ looked into the face of the young man, as if reading his life and searching his character. He loved him and hungered to give him peace and joy. “One thing thou lackest: go sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”HLv 347.1
Christ was drawn to this young man. The Redeemer longed to create in him that discernment to see the necessity of heart devotion. He longed to see in him a humble and contrite heart, hiding its lack in the perfection of Christ.HLv 347.2
Jesus saw in this ruler just the help He needed in the work of salvation. If he would place himself under Christ’s guidance, he would be a power for good. Christ, seeing into his character, loved him. Love for Christ was awakening in the ruler’s heart, for love begets love. Jesus longed to see him a coworker with Him. He longed to develop the excellence of his character, and sanctify it to the Master’s use. If the ruler had then given himself to Christ, how different would have been his future!HLv 347.3
“One thing thou lackest,” Jesus said. “Go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” Christ read the ruler’s heart. Only one thing he lacked, but that was a vital principle. He needed the love of God in the soul. This lack, unless supplied, would prove fatal. His whole nature would become corrupted. That he might receive the love of God, his supreme love of self must be surrendered.HLv 347.4
Christ called upon him to choose between heavenly treasure and worldly greatness. Self must yield; his will must be given into Christ’s control. The young ruler had the privilege of becoming a coheir with Christ to the heavenly treasure. But he must take up the cross and follow the Saviour in the path of self-denial.HLv 347.5
The choice was left with him. Jesus had shown him the plague spot in his character. If he decided to follow Christ, he must turn from his ambitious projects. With earnest, anxious longing, the Saviour looked at the young man, hoping he would yield to the invitation of the Spirit of God.HLv 347.6
Christ’s words were words of wisdom, though they appeared severe. In accepting and obeying them was the ruler’s only hope of salvation. His position and possessions were exerting a subtle influence for evil on his character. If cherished, they would supplant God in his affections.HLv 348.1
The ruler, quick to discern all that Christ’s words involved, became sad. He was a member of the honored council of the Jews, and Satan was tempting him with flattering prospects of the future. He wanted the heavenly treasure, but he wanted also the advantages his riches would bring. He desired eternal life, but the sacrifice seemed too great; and he went away sorrowful, “for he had great possessions.”HLv 348.2
His claim that he had kept the law of God was a deception. He showed that riches were his idol. He loved the gifts of God more than he loved the Giver. Christ had offered the young man fellowship with Himself. “Follow Me,” He said. But the Saviour was not so much to him as his own name among men or his possessions. To give up the seen for the unseen was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal life, and went away. Ever after the world was to receive his worship. Thousands pass through this ordeal, weighing Christ against the world; and many choose the world.HLv 348.3
Christ’s dealing with the young man is presented as an object lesson. God has given us the rule of conduct which His servants must follow. It is obedience to His law, not merely a legal obedience, but an obedience which enters into the life and is exemplified in the character. Only those who will say, Lord, all I have and all I am is Thine, will be acknowledged as sons and daughters of God. Think of what it means to say No to Christ. The Saviour offers to share with us the work God has given us to do. Only in this way can He save us.HLv 348.4
God entrusts men with means, talents, and opportunities, that they may be His agents in helping the poor and the suffering. He who uses his entrusted gifts as God designs becomes a coworker with the Saviour.HLv 349.1
To those who, like the young ruler, are in high positions and have great possessions, it may seem too great a sacrifice to give up all in order to follow Christ. But nothing short of obedience can be accepted. Self-surrender is the substance of the teachings of Christ. There is no other way to save man than to cut away those things which, if entertained, will demoralize the whole being.Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
Chapter 16—To the Little Flock
CET 106.2
As I viewed poor souls dying for want of the present truth, and some who professed to believe the truth were letting them die by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to remove it from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for some of their property, like the young man who came to Jesus (Matthew 19:16-22), they went away sorrowful; and that soon the overflowing scourge would pass over and sweep their possessions all away, and then it would be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up a treasure in heaven.Early Writings
To the “Little Flock”
EW 49.1
As I viewed poor souls dying for want of the present truth, and some who professed to believe the truth were letting them die by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to remove it from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for some of their property, like the young man who came to Jesus (Matthew 19:16-22) they went away sorrowful, and that soon the overflowing scourge would pass over and sweep their possessions all away, and then it would be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up a treasure in heaven.From Heaven With Love
Did Jesus Demand Too Much?
HLv 349.2
When Christ’s followers give back to the Lord His own, they are accumulating treasure which will be given to them when they hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23. The joy of seeing souls eternally saved is the reward of all who put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow Me.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 23, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 23, 1885, par. 26
“And, behold, one came and said unto Him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And He said unto him, Why callest Thou Me good? There is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto Him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The young man saith unto Him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” Jesus now points to the plague spot of his heart, showing him he had not kept the commandments as he thought he had done. “Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” Matthew 19:16-22.4LtMs, Ms 23, 1885, par. 27
We can here see clearly that Christ was referring to the moral law. “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Verse 17.] But Elder Grant answers the questioner in altogether a different manner. He would say, “If you would enter into life, believe, believe. If you keep the law you are in bondage and have fallen from grace. The law is not binding on men. It is a yoke of bondage.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 39, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 39, 1886, par. 2
Text: “And, behold, one came and said unto Him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto Him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” Matthew 19:16-22.4LtMs, Ms 39, 1886, par. 3
Here in this text we have our duty defined. In answer to the young man’s question, “What ... shall I do that I may have eternal life?” [Verse 16.] Christ directed him to the commandments. If they were obeyed strictly to the letter, then he would receive the precious boon desired—eternal life. The young man had supposed that he was a commandment keeper, being deceived in himself. Christ knew just where the young man failed, and He touched the plague spot of his life—his great possessions. These stood in the way of his loving God with his whole heart. He was not ready to follow his Master in self-denial, and in this he showed his weakness. He was not a true lover of God. There are many like the young man. When their duty is pointed out to them in keeping the Sabbath, they will be sorrowful because they are not willing to lift the cross.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 44, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 44, 1893, par. 8
The young man came to Jesus with the question, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” And Christ saith unto him, “Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which?” Jesus quoted several, and the young man said unto him, “All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.” Here are conditions, and the Bible is full of conditions. “But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16-22.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
“If Thou Wilt Enter Into Life”
3MR 66.2
Text: “And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honor thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” Matthew 19:16-22.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 57—“One Thing Thou Lackest”
DA 518.1
“And when He was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”DA 518.2
The young man who asked this question was a ruler. He had great possessions, and occupied a position of responsibility. He saw the love that Christ manifested toward the children brought to Him; he saw how tenderly He received them, and took them up in His arms, and his heart kindled with love for the Saviour. He felt a desire to be His disciple. He was so deeply moved that as Christ was going on His way, he ran after Him, and kneeling at His feet, asked with sincerity and earnestness the question so important to his soul and to the soul of every human being, “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”DA 518.3
“Why callest thou Me good?” said Christ, “there is none good but One, that is, God.” Jesus desired to test the ruler’s sincerity, and to draw from him the way in which he regarded Him as good. Did he realize that the One to whom he was speaking was the Son of God? What was the true sentiment of his heart?DA 518.4
This ruler had a high estimate of his own righteousness. He did not really suppose that he was defective in anything, yet he was not altogether satisfied. He felt the want of something that he did not possess. Could not Jesus bless him as He blessed the little children, and satisfy his soul want?DA 518.5
In reply to this question Jesus told him that obedience to the commandments of God was necessary if he would obtain eternal life; and He quoted several of the commandments which show man’s duty to his fellow men. The ruler’s answer was positive: “All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?”DA 519.1
Christ looked into the face of the young man, as if reading his life and searching his character. He loved him, and He hungered to give him that peace and grace and joy which would materially change his character. “One thing thou lackest,” He said; “go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”DA 519.2
Christ was drawn to this young man. He knew him to be sincere in his assertion, “All these things have I kept from my youth.” The Redeemer longed to create in him that discernment which would enable him to see the necessity of heart devotion and Christian goodness. He longed to see in him a humble and contrite heart, conscious of the supreme love to be given to God, and hiding its lack in the perfection of Christ.DA 519.3
Jesus saw in this ruler just the help He needed if the young man would become a colaborer with Him in the work of salvation. If he would place himself under Christ’s guidance, he would be a power for good. In a marked degree the ruler could have represented Christ; for he possessed qualifications, which, if he were united with the Saviour, would enable him to become a divine force among men. Christ, seeing into his character, loved him. Love for Christ was awakening in the ruler’s heart; for love begets love. Jesus longed to see him a co-worker with Him. He longed to make him like Himself, a mirror in which the likeness of God would be reflected. He longed to develop the excellence of his character, and sanctify it to the Master’s use. If the ruler had then given himself to Christ, he would have grown in the atmosphere of His presence. If he had made this choice, how different would have been his future!DA 519.4
“One thing thou lackest,” Jesus said. “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” Christ read the ruler’s heart. Only one thing he lacked, but that was a vital principle. He needed the love of God in the soul. This lack, unless supplied, would prove fatal to him; his whole nature would become corrupted. By indulgence, selfishness would strengthen. That he might receive the love of God, his supreme love of self must be surrendered.DA 519.5
Christ gave this man a test. He called upon him to choose between the heavenly treasure and worldly greatness. The heavenly treasure was assured him if he would follow Christ. But self must yield; his will must be given into Christ’s control. The very holiness of God was offered to the young ruler. He had the privilege of becoming a son of God, and a coheir with Christ to the heavenly treasure. But he must take up the cross, and follow the Saviour in the path of self-denial.DA 520.1
Christ’s words were verily to the ruler the invitation, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” Joshua 24:15. The choice was left with him. Jesus was yearning for his conversion. He had shown him the plague spot in his character, and with what deep interest He watched the issue as the young man weighed the question! If he decided to follow Christ, he must obey His words in everything. He must turn from his ambitious projects. With what earnest, anxious longing, what soul hunger, did the Saviour look at the young man, hoping that he would yield to the invitation of the Spirit of God!DA 520.2
Christ made the only terms which could place the ruler where he would perfect a Christian character. His words were words of wisdom, though they appeared severe and exacting. In accepting and obeying them was the ruler’s only hope of salvation. His exalted position and his possessions were exerting a subtle influence for evil upon his character. If cherished, they would supplant God in his affections. To keep back little or much from God was to retain that which would lessen his moral strength and efficiency; for if the things of this world are cherished, however uncertain and unworthy they may be, they will become all-absorbing.DA 520.3
The ruler was quick to discern all that Christ’s words involved, and he became sad. If he had realized the value of the offered gift, quickly would he have enrolled himself as one of Christ’s followers. He was a member of the honored council of the Jews, and Satan was tempting him with flattering prospects of the future. He wanted the heavenly treasure, but he wanted also the temporal advantages his riches would bring him. He was sorry that such conditions existed; he desired eternal life, but he was not willing to make the sacrifice. The cost of eternal life seemed too great, and he went away sorrowful; “for he had great possessions.”DA 520.4
His claim that he had kept the law of God was a deception. He showed that riches were his idol. He could not keep the commandments of God while the world was first in his affections. He loved the gifts of God more than he loved the Giver. Christ had offered the young man fellowship with Himself. “Follow Me,” He said. But the Saviour was not so much to him as his own name among men or his possessions. To give up his earthly treasure, that was seen, for the heavenly treasure, that was unseen, was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal life, and went away, and ever after the world was to receive his worship. Thousands are passing through this ordeal, weighing Christ against the world; and many choose the world. Like the young ruler, they turn from the Saviour, saying in their hearts, I will not have this Man as my leader.DA 523.1
Christ’s dealing with the young man is presented as an object lesson. God has given us the rule of conduct which every one of His servants must follow. It is obedience to His law, not merely a legal obedience, but an obedience which enters into the life, and is exemplified in the character. God has set His own standard of character for all who would become subjects of His kingdom. Only those who will become co-workers with Christ, only those who will say, Lord, all I have and all I am is Thine, will be acknowledged as sons and daughters of God. All should consider what it means to desire heaven, and yet to turn away because of the conditions laid down. Think of what it means to say “No” to Christ. The ruler said, No, I cannot give You all. Do we say the same? The Saviour offers to share with us the work God has given us to do. He offers to use the means God has given us, to carry forward His work in the world. Only in this way can He save us.DA 523.2
The ruler’s possessions were entrusted to him that he might prove himself a faithful steward; he was to dispense these goods for the blessing of those in need. So God now entrusts men with means, with talents and opportunities, that they may be His agents in helping the poor and the suffering. He who uses his entrusted gifts as God designs becomes a co-worker with the Saviour. He wins souls to Christ, because he is a representative of His character.DA 523.3
To those who, like the young ruler, are in high positions of trust and have great possessions, it may seem too great a sacrifice to give up all in order to follow Christ. But this is the rule of conduct for all who would become His disciples. Nothing short of obedience can be accepted. Self-surrender is the substance of the teachings of Christ. Often it is presented and enjoined in language that seems authoritative, because there is no other way to save man than to cut away those things which, if entertained, will demoralize the whole being.DA 523.4
When Christ’s followers give back to the Lord His own, they are accumulating treasure which will be given to them when they shall hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” “Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Matthew 25:23; Hebrews 12:2. The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the reward of all that put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow Me.”Matthew 19:16-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 118, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 22
A young ruler came to Christ, asking, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Christ said to him, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:16, 17.] In speaking of the commandments, our Lord confined Himself to the last six. The principle of these commandments is embraced in the words, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy self.” [Verses 18, 19.] Here the ruler was shown his lack. Christ showed him the idol of his affections, He revealed the danger that imperilled his soul.12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 23
The young man then said to Him, “All these things have I kept from my youth up; what lack I yet?” “Jesus said to him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell all that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come and follow me.” [Verses 20, 21.]12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 25
“But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” [Verse 22.] He did not keep the commandments of God. Riches were his idol. He could not keep the commandments while the world was first in his love. He loved the goods which the Lord had entrusted to him, and which, as a faithful steward, he should have used in the service of God, more than he loved the Giver. His affections were placed on his treasure. Christ saw that his only hope was to surrender his riches; and He laid His hand on his possessions; it was the ruler’s only hope of eternal life. The ruler saw that he could not be a follower of Christ and retain his present style of self-indulgence. But to part with his earthly treasure for the heavenly seemed too much of a sacrifice, and he turned away from Christ.12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 29
“Thou shalt have treasure in heaven,” said Christ. [Verse 21.] This precious promise was assured to the young man if he would comply with the conditions laid down; but he went away sorrowful, because the conditions appeared to him so hard. Yet the One that laid them down had Himself become poor that He might present to all who would receive it the immortal, heavenly treasure, the eternal substance. But the ruler’s heart was bound up with his earthly possessions, and he refused to give them up, though they were his Lord’s goods, to be used as Christ directed. By obeying these words, he could have honored and glorified the name of the Giver.12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 30
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, ... That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of God. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” [Verses 23, 24.]12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 31
There are thousands upon thousands that have the Lord’s goods in their keeping. Our Lord says to them, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Verse 17.] It is the only hope for those who love earthly treasure to lay it at the feet of Jesus. If they allow their minds to become absorbed in the world, if they glorify themselves, as though their treasures were their own, to do with as they pleased, their riches become to them a separating wedge to divide them from God. All who are doers of the Word will hold their time, their talents, their means, as sacred trusts, over which God has made them His stewards.Matthew 19:16-26
Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2
Chapter 33—Vision at Monterey
2SG 240.1
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:16-26.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 30—The Rich Young Man
1T 171.1
“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When His disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:16-26.The Review and Herald
November 26, 1857
RH November 26, 1857, par. 11
“But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:16-26.Testimony for the Church — No. 4
“He Went Away Sorrowful, for He Had Great Possessions”
T04 22.5
“But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:16-26.Matthew 19:16-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 345, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, par. 6
“But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16-22.]19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, par. 7
This young ruler was a man of prepossessing appearance and of much outward piety. He had high capabilities, and he might have been a great blessing. But Christ saw in his character one great defect which, unless remedied, would mar his whole life. His possessions were his idol; unless they were given their proper place, they would rob him of eternal life. How kindly and tenderly the Saviour treated him. “If thou wilt be perfect, He said, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven.” [Verse 21.]19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, par. 10
When this young man asked what he should do that he might gain eternal life, Christ answered him plainly. When he asked, “What lack I yet?” He pointed out to him wherein he fell short. He failed when tested in regard to his worldly possessions. These were his idol. Distinctly and definitely Christ told him that his riches stood in the way of his gaining eternal life. “If thou wilt be perfect,” He said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, and follow Me.” [Verses 20, 21.]19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, par. 11
“And when he heard this, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Verse 22.] He wanted the heavenly treasure, but he wanted also the temporal advantages his riches would bring him. He desired eternal life; but he was not willing to make the sacrifice. To give up his earthly treasure, that was seen, for the heavenly treasure, that was unseen, was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal life and went away, and ever after the world was to receive his worship.19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, par. 13
“Then answered Peter and said unto Him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit eternal life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” [Verses 23-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 40, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 4
“The young man saith unto Him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16-22.]20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 6
“Then Jesus said unto His disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” [Verses 23, 24.]20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 9
Some of the disciples were exceedingly amazed at the words of Christ concerning the rich who use their earthly advantage to exalt and glorify self. They ask the question, “Who then can be saved?” [Verse 25.] If riches are a hindrance to men, what can we say of those who, professing to be followers of Christ, withhold from Him that for which He calls and expend their Lord’s goods in self-gratification, in pride, and in display?20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 10
“With men,” Jesus replied, “this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible.” [Verse 26.] He is able to change and subdue the human heart. Many place themselves where it is impossible to appreciate the heavenly riches. It is difficult for the rich to resist the fatal current of worldliness, and many are carried away to perish. It is difficult for them to use their riches as Christ has given an example. Yet some have done this, and others will do this in the future. Some of the wealthy will become united to Christ and will invest their means in the work of God.20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 11
Peter inquires concerning the reward of those who fulfil the conditions that Christ set before the rich man. “We have forsaken all, and followeth Thee,” he says. [Verse 27.] They had forsaken their all, but their all had consisted of a few fishing boats and nets. But Christ did not upbraid them because they had forsaken but little. Like the widow’s mite, their sacrifice was accepted, because it was all they had and was as dear to them as were the riches of the wealthy. With tenderness and compassion Jesus looked upon His disciples, and said:20LtMs, Ms 40, 1905, par. 12
“Verily, verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.” [Verses 28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 123, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 123, 1908, par. 38
“But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16-22.]23LtMs, Ms 123, 1908, par. 39
This young ruler was a man of prepossessing appearance and of much outward piety. He had high capabilities and might have been a great blessing. But Christ saw in his character one great defect which, unless remedied, would mar his whole life. His possessions were his idol. Unless these were given their proper place, they would rob him of eternal life. How kindly and tenderly the Saviour treated him. “If thou wilt be perfect,” He said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven.” [Verse 21.]23LtMs, Ms 123, 1908, par. 42
When this young man asked what he should do that he might gain eternal life, Christ answered him plainly. When he asked, “What lack I yet?” Jesus pointed out to him wherein he fell short. He failed when tested in regard to his worldly possessions. These were his idol. Distinctly and definitely Christ told him that his riches stood in the way of his gaining eternal life. “If thou wilt be perfect,” He said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” But when he heard this, “he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Verses 20-22.] He wanted the heavenly treasure, but he wanted also the temporal advantages his riches would bring him. He desired eternal life; but he was not willing to make the sacrifice. To give up his earthly treasure that was seen for the heavenly treasure that was unseen was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal life, and went away, and ever after the world was to receive his worship.23LtMs, Ms 123, 1908, par. 44
“Then answered Peter and said unto Him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” [Verses 23-30.]Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 28—The Reward of Grace
COL 390.1
The truth of God’s free grace had been almost lost sight of by the Jews. The rabbis taught that God’s favor must be earned. The reward of the righteous they hoped to gain by their own works. Thus their worship was prompted by a grasping, mercenary spirit. From this spirit even the disciples of Christ were not wholly free, and the Saviour sought every opportunity of showing them their error. Just before He gave the parable of the laborers, an event occurred that opened the way for Him to present the right principles.COL 390.2
As He was walking by the way, a young ruler came running to Him, and kneeling, reverently saluted Him. “Good Master,” he said, “what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?”COL 390.3
The ruler had addressed Christ merely as an honored rabbi, not discerning in Him the Son of God. The Saviour said, “Why callest thou Me good? There is none good but one, that is, God.” On what ground do you call Me good? God is the one good. If you recognize Me as such, you must receive Me as His Son and representative.COL 391.1
“If thou wilt enter into life,” He added, “keep the commandments.” The character of God is expressed in His law; and in order for you to be in harmony with God, the principles of His law must be the spring of your every action.COL 391.2
Christ does not lessen the claims of the law. In unmistakable language He presents obedience to it as the condition of eternal life—the same condition that was required of Adam before his fall. The Lord expects no less of the soul now than He expected of man in Paradise, perfect obedience, unblemished righteousness. The requirement under the covenant of grace is just as broad as the requirement made in Eden—harmony with God’s law, which is holy, just, and good.COL 391.3
To the words, “Keep the commandments,” the young man answered, “Which?” He supposed that some ceremonial precept was meant, but Christ was speaking of the law given from Sinai. He mentioned several commandments from the second table of the Decalogue, then summed them all up in the precept, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”COL 391.4
The young man answered without hesitation, “All these things have I kept from my youth up; what lack I yet?” His conception of the law was external and superficial. Judged by a human standard, he had preserved an unblemished character. To a great degree his outward life had been free from guilt; he verily thought that his obedience had been without a flaw. Yet he had a secret fear that all was not right between his soul and God. This prompted the question, “What lack I yet?”COL 391.5
“If thou wilt be perfect,” Christ said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come and follow Me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.”COL 392.1
The lover of self is a transgressor of the law. This Jesus desired to reveal to the young man, and He gave him a test that would make manifest the selfishness of his heart. He showed him the plague spot in his character. The young man desired no further enlightenment. He had cherished an idol in the soul; the world was his god. He professed to have kept the commandments, but he was destitute of the principle which is the very spirit and life of them all. He did not possess true love for God or man. This want was the want of everything that would qualify him to enter the kingdom of heaven. In his love of self and worldly gain he was out of harmony with the principles of heaven.COL 392.2
When this young ruler came to Jesus, his sincerity and earnestness won the Saviour’s heart. He “beholding him loved him.” In this young man He saw one who might do service as a preacher of righteousness. He would have received this talented and noble youth as readily as He received the poor fishermen who followed Him. Had the young man devoted his ability to the work of saving souls, he might have become a diligent and successful laborer for Christ.COL 393.1
But first he must accept the conditions of discipleship. He must give himself unreservedly to God. At the Saviour’s call, John, Peter, Matthew, and their companions “left all, rose up, and followed Him.” Luke 5:28. The same consecration was required of the young ruler. And in this Christ did not ask a greater sacrifice than He Himself had made. “He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9. The young man had only to follow where Christ led the way.COL 393.2
Christ looked upon the young man and longed after his soul. He longed to send him forth as a messenger of blessing to men. In the place of that which He called upon him to surrender, Christ offered him the privilege of companionship with Himself. “Follow Me,” He said. This privilege had been counted a joy by Peter, James, and John. The young man himself looked upon Christ with admiration. His heart was drawn toward the Saviour. But he was not ready to accept the Saviour’s principle of self-sacrifice. He chose his riches before Jesus. He wanted eternal life, but would not receive into the soul that unselfish love which alone is life, and with a sorrowful heart he turned away from Christ.COL 393.3
As the young man turned away, Jesus said to His disciples, “How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God.” These words astonished the disciples. They had been taught to look upon the rich as the favorites of heaven; worldly power and riches they themselves hoped to receive in the Messiah’s kingdom; if the rich were to fail of entering the kingdom, what hope could there be for the rest of men?COL 394.1
“Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were astonished out of measure.” Now they realized that they themselves were included in the solemn warning. In the light of the Saviour’s words, their own secret longing for power and riches was revealed. With misgivings for themselves they exclaimed, “Who then can be saved?”COL 394.2
“Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”COL 394.3
A rich man, as such, cannot enter heaven. His wealth gives him no title to the inheritance of the saints in light. It is only through the unmerited grace of Christ that any man can find entrance into the city of God.COL 394.4
To the rich no less than to the poor are the words of the Holy Spirit spoken, “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. When men believe this, their possessions will be held as a trust, to be used as God shall direct, for the saving of the lost, and the comfort of the suffering and the poor. With man this is impossible, for the heart clings to its earthly treasure. The soul that is bound in service to mammon is deaf to the cry of human need. But with God all things are possible. By beholding the matchless love of Christ, the selfish heart will be melted and subdued. The rich man will be led, as was Saul the Pharisee, to say, “What things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.” Philippians 3:7, 8. Then they will not count anything their own. They will joy to regard themselves as stewards of the manifold grace of God, and for His sake servants of all men.COL 395.1
Peter was the first to rally from the secret conviction wrought by the Saviour’s words. He thought with satisfaction of what he and his brethren had given up for Christ. “Behold,” he said, “we have forsaken all, and followed Thee.” Remembering the conditional promise to the young ruler, “Thou shalt have treasure in heaven,” he now asked what he and his companions were to receive as a reward for their sacrifices.COL 395.2
The Saviour’s answer thrilled the hearts of those Galilean fishermen. It pictured honors that fulfilled their highest dreams: “Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” And He added, “There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My sake, and the gospel’s, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.”COL 396.1
But Peter’s question, “What shall we have therefore?” had revealed a spirit that uncorrected would unfit the disciples to be messengers for Christ; for it was the spirit of a hireling. While they had been attracted by the love of Jesus, the disciples were not wholly free from Pharisaism. They still worked with the thought of meriting a reward in proportion to their labor. They cherished a spirit of self-exaltation and self-complacency, and made comparisons among themselves. When one of them failed in any particular, the others indulged feelings of superiority.COL 396.2
Lest the disciples should lose sight of the principles of the gospel, Christ related to them a parable illustrating the manner in which God deals with His servants, and the spirit in which He desires them to labor for Him.COL 396.3
“The kingdom of heaven,” He said, “is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.” It was the custom for men seeking employment to wait in the market places, and thither the employers went to find servants. The man in the parable is represented as going out at different hours to engage workmen. Those who are hired at the earliest hours agree to work for a stated sum; those hired later leave their wages to the discretion of the householder.COL 396.4
“So when even was come, the Lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.”COL 396.5
The householder’s dealing with the workers in his vineyard represents God’s dealing with the human family. It is contrary to the customs that prevail among men. In worldly business, compensation is given according to the work accomplished. The laborer expects to be paid only that which he earns. But in the parable, Christ was illustrating the principles of His kingdom—a kingdom not of this world. He is not controlled by any human standard. The Lord says, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways.... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8, 9.COL 397.1
In the parable the first laborers agreed to work for a stipulated sum, and they received the amount specified, nothing more. Those later hired believed the master’s promise, “Whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.” They showed their confidence in him by asking no question in regard to wages. They trusted to his justice and equity. They were rewarded, not according to the amount of their labor, but according to the generosity of his purpose.COL 397.2
So God desires us to trust in Him who justifieth the ungodly. His reward is given not according to our merit but according to His own purpose, “which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Ephesians 3:11. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:5. And for those who trust in Him He will do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20.COL 397.3
Not the amount of labor performed or its visible results but the spirit in which the work is done makes it of value with God. Those who came into the vineyard at the eleventh hour were thankful for an opportunity to work. Their hearts were full of gratitude to the one who had accepted them; and when at the close of the day the householder paid them for a full day’s work, they were greatly surprised. They knew they had not earned such wages. And the kindness expressed in the countenance of their employer filled them with joy. They never forgot the goodness of the householder or the generous compensation they had received. Thus it is with the sinner who, knowing his unworthiness, has entered the Master’s vineyard at the eleventh hour. His time of service seems so short, he feels that he is undeserving of reward; but he is filled with joy that God has accepted him at all. He works with a humble, trusting spirit, thankful for the privilege of being a co-worker with Christ. This spirit God delights to honor.COL 398.1
The Lord desires us to rest in Him without a question as to our measure of reward. When Christ abides in the soul, the thought of reward is not uppermost. This is not the motive that actuates our service. It is true that in a subordinate sense we should have respect to the recompense of reward. God desires us to appreciate His promised blessings. But He would not have us eager for rewards nor feel that for every duty we must receive compensation. We should not be so anxious to gain the reward as to do what is right, irrespective of all gain. Love to God and to our fellow men should be our motive.COL 399.1
This parable does not excuse those who hear the first call to labor but who neglect to enter the Lord’s vineyard. When the householder went to the market place at the eleventh hour and found men unemployed he said, “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” The answer was, “Because no man hath hired us.” None of those called later in the day were there in the morning. They had not refused the call. Those who refuse and afterward repent, do well to repent; but it is not safe to trifle with the first call of mercy.COL 399.2
When the laborers in the vineyard received “every man a penny,” those who had begun work early in the day were offended. Had they not worked for twelve hours? they reasoned, and was it not right that they should receive more than those who had worked for only one hour in the cooler part of the day? “These last have wrought but one hour,” they said, “and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.”COL 399.3
“Friend,” the householder replied to one of them, “I do thee no wrong; didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way; I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?COL 399.4
“So the last shall be first, and the first last; for many be called, but few chosen.”COL 399.5
The first laborers of the parable represent those who, because of their services, claim preference above others. They take up their work in a self-gratulatory spirit, and do not bring into it self-denial and sacrifice. They may have professed to serve God all their lives; they may have been foremost in enduring hardship, privation, and trial, and they therefore think themselves entitled to a large reward. They think more of the reward than of the privilege of being servants of Christ. In their view their labors and sacrifices entitle them to receive honor above others, and because this claim is not recognized, they are offended. Did they bring into their work a loving, trusting spirit, they would continue to be first; but their querulous, complaining disposition is un-Christlike, and proves them to be untrustworthy. It reveals their desire for self-advancement, their distrust of God, and their jealous, grudging spirit toward their brethren. The Lord’s goodness and liberality is to them only an occasion of murmuring. Thus they show that there is no connection between their souls and God. They do not know the joy of co-operation with the Master Worker.COL 400.1
There is nothing more offensive to God than this narrow, self-caring spirit. He cannot work with any who manifest these attributes. They are insensible to the working of His Spirit.COL 400.2
The Jews had been first called into the Lord’s vineyard, and because of this they were proud and self-righteous. Their long years of service they regarded as entitling them to receive a larger reward than others. Nothing was more exasperating to them than an intimation that the Gentiles were to be admitted to equal privileges with themselves in the things of God.COL 400.3
Christ warned the disciples who had been first called to follow Him, lest the same evil should be cherished among them. He saw that the weakness, the curse of the church, would be a spirit of self-righteousness. Men would think they could do something toward earning a place in the kingdom of heaven. They would imagine that when they had made certain advancement, the Lord would come in to help them. Thus there would be an abundance of self and little of Jesus. Many who had made a little advancement would be puffed up and think themselves superior to others. They would be eager for flattery, jealous if not thought most important. Against this danger Christ seeks to guard His disciples.COL 401.1
All boasting of merit in ourselves is out of place. “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him that glorieth, glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 9:23, 24.COL 401.2
The reward is not of works, lest any man should boast; but it is all of grace. “What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on Him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:1-5. Therefore there is no occasion for one to glory over another or to grudge against another. No one is privileged above another, nor can anyone claim the reward as a right.COL 402.1
The first and the last are to be sharers in the great, eternal reward, and the first should gladly welcome the last. He who grudges the reward to another forgets that he himself is saved by grace alone. The parable of the laborers rebukes all jealousy and suspicion. Love rejoices in the truth and institutes no envious comparisons. He who possesses love compares only the loveliness of Christ and his own imperfect character.COL 402.2
This parable is a warning to all laborers, however long their service, however abundant their labors, that without love to their brethren, without humility before God, they are nothing. There is no religion in the enthronement of self. He who makes self-glorification his aim will find himself destitute of that grace which alone can make him efficient in Christ’s service. Whenever pride and self-complacency are indulged, the work is marred.COL 402.3
It is not the length of time we labor but our willingness and fidelity in the work that makes it acceptable to God. In all our service a full surrender of self is demanded. The smallest duty done in sincerity and self-forgetfulness is more pleasing to God than the greatest work when marred with self-seeking. He looks to see how much of the spirit of Christ we cherish, and how much of the likeness of Christ our work reveals. He regards more the love and faithfulness with which we work than the amount we do.COL 402.4
Only when selfishness is dead, when strife for supremacy is banished, when gratitude fills the heart, and love makes fragrant the life—it is only then that Christ is abiding in the soul, and we are recognized as laborers together with God.COL 402.5
However trying their labor, the true workers do not regard it as drudgery. They are ready to spend and to be spent; but it is a cheerful work, done with a glad heart. Joy in God is expressed through Jesus Christ. Their joy is the joy set before Christ—“to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work.” John 4:34. They are in co-operation with the Lord of glory. This thought sweetens all toil, it braces the will, it nerves the spirit for whatever may befall. Working with unselfish heart, ennobled by being partakers of Christ’s sufferings, sharing His sympathies, and co-operating with Him in His labor, they help to swell the tide of His joy and bring honor and praise to His exalted name.COL 403.1
This is the spirit of all true service for God. Through a lack of this spirit, many who appear to be first will become last, while those who possess it, though accounted last, will become first.COL 403.2
There are many who have given themselves to Christ, yet who see no opportunity of doing a large work or making great sacrifices in His service. These may find comfort in the thought that it is not necessarily the martyr’s self-surrender which is most acceptable to God; it may not be the missionary who has daily faced danger and death that stands highest in heaven’s records. The Christian who is such in his private life, in the daily surrender of self, in sincerity of purpose and purity of thought, in meekness under provocation, in faith and piety, in fidelity in that which is least, the one who in the home life represents the character of Christ—such a one may in the sight of God be more precious than even the world-renowned missionary or martyr.COL 403.3
Oh, how different are the standards by which God and men measure character. God sees many temptations resisted of which the world and even near friends never know—temptations in the home, in the heart. He sees the soul’s humility in view of its own weakness; the sincere repentance over even a thought that is evil. He sees the wholehearted devotion to His service. He has noted the hours of hard battle with self—battle that won the victory. All this God and angels know. A book of remembrance is written before Him for them that fear the Lord and that think upon His name.COL 404.1
Not in our learning, not in our position, not in our numbers or entrusted talents, not in the will of man, is to be found the secret of success. Feeling our inefficiency we are to contemplate Christ, and through Him who is the strength of all strength, the thought of all thought, the willing and obedient will gain victory after victory.COL 404.2
And however short our service or humble our work, if in simple faith we follow Christ, we shall not be disappointed of the reward. That which even the greatest and wisest cannot earn, the weakest and most humble may receive. Heaven’s golden gate opens not to the self-exalted. It is not lifted up to the proud in spirit. But the everlasting portals will open wide to the trembling touch of a little child. Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought for God in the simplicity of faith and love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 195, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 195, 1903, par. 10
“Then answered Peter and said unto Him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundred-fold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” [Matthew 19:16-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 354, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, par. 15
“Then Peter answered and said unto Him, Behold, we have forsaken all and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit upon the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. And many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first.” [Matthew 19:16-30.]Matthew 19:17
Counsels on Health
To Promulgate Health Principles
CH 206.3
In the preparation of a people for the Lord’s second coming, a great work is to be accomplished through the promulgation of health principles. The people are to be instructed in regard to the needs of the physical organism and the value of healthful living as taught in the Scriptures, that the bodies which God has created may be presented to Him a living sacrifice, fitted to render Him acceptable service. There is a great work to be done for suffering humanity in relieving their sufferings by the use of the natural agencies that God has provided, and in teaching them how to prevent sickness by the regulation of the appetites and passions. The people should be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. They should be taught the truth in physical as well as in spiritual lines, that “the fear of the Lord tendeth to life.” Proverbs 19:23. “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:17. Live out My law “as the apple of thine eye.” God’s commandments, obeyed, are “life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” Proverbs 4:22.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 105, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 105, 1893, par. 3
The controversy between the scribes and Pharisees and Christ was the old controversy that we find in the garden of Eden, where the Prince of life and the prince of darkness came into contact on the earth. Satan then construed the words of God, which threatened the transgressor with death, to mean that the sinner should not surely die, but should be as gods, knowing good and evil. How many at the present day are on Satan’s side of the controversy. The whole Christian world have taken up with the interpretation which Satan has put upon the words of God addressed to the sinner and have declared that death was but the gate to life, or that death meant an eternally burning hell. Satan cast contempt upon the law of God and men have so followed his train of reasoning and have termed it a yoke of bondage. But Christ has said to the world as he said to the young man, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:17.] “And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life: and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” [1 John 5:11-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 166, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 166, 1899, par. 12
“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. Our health institutions must be conducted on life saving principles. Those who are suffering because of transgression of physical laws are to be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:17. Live out My law “as the apple of thine eye.” Proverbs 7:2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 205, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 205, 1899, par. 4
“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 institutions established must be conducted on lifesaving principles. The souls who are suffering because of transgression of the laws which govern their bodies are to be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. “If ye would enter into life,” He says, “keep the commandments. Live out the law as the apple of thine eye.” [Matthew 19:17; Proverbs 7:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 141, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, par. 5
Jesus was free from all sin and error; there was not a trace of imperfection in His life or character. He maintained spotless purity under circumstances the most trying. True, He declared, “There is none good but one, that is, God;” but again, He said, “I and my Father are one.” [Matthew 19:17; John 3:16.] Jesus speaks of Himself, as well as the Father, as God and claims for Himself perfect righteousness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 56, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 41
Every true child of God prepares himself for service. Jesus said, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. ... This do, and thou shalt live.” [Matthew 19:17; Luke 10:27, 28.] These words mean much. Service to God includes all there is of man. Jesus Christ is the One altogether lovely, the Chiefest among ten thousand. Why should we not love Him and give Him our undivided service?17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 44
In their habits the people of God should be simple, honest, pure, free from all iniquity. God requires perfect obedience, perfection of character. Great injury is brought upon His cause by those who, while claiming to be His followers, deny Him in character. “If thou wilt enter into life,” He says, “keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 388, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, par. 7
The Word of God is true. Faith takes hold of the divine Word; whereas feeling is naught else but something that eclipses faith in a “Thus saith the Word of the living God.” “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:17.] Live out My law “as the apple of thine eye.” God’s commandments, obeyed, are “life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” [Proverbs 7:2; 4:22.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 218, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 218, 1908, par. 20
“In the preparation of a people for the Lord’s second coming, a great work is to be accomplished through the promulgation of health principles. The people are to be instructed in regard to the needs of the physical organism, and the value of healthful living as taught in the Scriptures, that the bodies which God has created may be presented to Him a living sacrifice, fitted to render Him acceptable service. There is a great work to be done for suffering humanity in relieving their sufferings by the use of the natural agencies that God has provided, and in teaching them how to prevent sickness by the regulations of the appetites and passions. The people should be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. They should be taught the truth in physical as well as spiritual lines, that ‘the fear of the Lord tendeth to life.’ [Proverbs 19:23.] ‘If thou wilt enter into life,’ Christ says, ‘keep the commandments.’ [Matthew 19:17.] Live out My law ‘as the apple of thine eye.’ God’s commandments, obeyed, are ‘life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.’ [Proverbs 7:2; 4:22.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Pattern of Goodness, August 13
JNN 239.1
So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good?”—Matthew 19:17Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 26—God’s Design in Our Sanitariums
6T 224.3
In the preparation of a people for the Lord’s second coming a great work is to be accomplished through the promulgation of health principles. The people are to be instructed in regard to the needs of the physical organism and the value of healthful living as taught in the Scriptures, that the bodies which God has created may be presented to Him a living sacrifice, fitted to render Him acceptable service. There is a great work to be done for suffering humanity in relieving their sufferings by the use of the natural agencies that God has provided and in teaching them how to prevent sickness by the regulation of the appetites and passions. The people should be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. They should be taught the truth in physical as well as in spiritual lines that “the fear of the Lord tendeth to life.” Proverbs 19:23. “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:17. Live out My law as the apple of thine eye.” Proverbs 7:2. God’s commandments, obeyed, are “life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” Proverbs 4:22.The Kress Collection
God’s Design in Establishing Sanitariums
KC 13.6
“For 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. Our health institutions must be conducted on life saving principles. Those who are suffering because of transgression of physical laws are to be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is the transgression of the law of God. “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:17. Live out my law “as the apple of thine eye.” Proverbs 7:2.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
To Promulgate Health Principles
2TT 482.2
In the preparation of a people for the Lord’s second coming a great work is to be accomplished through the promulgation of health principles. The people are to be instructed in regard to the needs of the physical organism and the value of healthful living as taught in the Scriptures, that the bodies which God has created may be presented to Him a living sacrifice, fitted to render Him acceptable service. There is a great work to be done for suffering humanity in relieving their sufferings by the use of the natural agencies that God has provided and in teaching them how to prevent sickness by the regulation of the appetites and passions. The people should be taught that transgression of the laws of nature is transgression of the laws of God. They should be taught the truth in physical as well as in spiritual lines that “the fear of the Lord tendeth to life.” Proverbs 19:23. “If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” Matthew 19:17. Live out “My law as the apple of thine eye.” Proverbs 7:2. God’s commandments, obeyed, are “life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” Proverbs 4:22.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 16, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 16, 1890, par. 86
If Jesus resisted Satan’s temptations, He will help us to resist: He came to bring divine power to combine with human efforts. Jesus was free from all sin and error; there was not a trace of imperfection in His life or character. He maintained spotless purity under circumstances most trying. True, He declares there is none good but one, that is, God; but again He said, I and My Father are one. [Matthew 19:17; John 10:30.] Jesus speaks of Himself as well as the Father as God and claims for Himself perfect righteousness.Matthew 19:17-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 63a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 63a, 1893, par. 18
The business of every Christian is to study the character of Christ. The lessons of Christ did not always harmonize with the human reasoning of His disciples. There was an immense contrast between the truth reaching to heaven and compassing eternity, and the little common things of temporal, earthly existence. The world’s Redeemer was ever seeking to carry the mind from the earthly to the heavenly. The disciples were constantly learners of Christ, and these sacred lessons were molding their characters, with the exception of Judas. He was apparently righteous, while cultivating his accusing powers to condemn others. [He] had come to Christ as did the young man asking what he should do that he might have eternal life. And Christ said, “Keep the commandments.” He responded, “All these have I kept from my youth up. What lack I yet?” [Matthew 19:17, 20.] Jesus touched the plague-spot of his heart, which was selfishness and covetousness.8LtMs, Lt 63a, 1893, par. 19
“Go,” said Christ, “and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.” [Verse 21.] Did he do this? No, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. If Judas had asked “What lack I yet?” Jesus would have answered, “Keep the commandments,” for Judas was selfish, covetous, and a thief; yet he was numbered with the disciples.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 19:1-30
Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Appendix B An Early Church Problem
TSB 271.2
The term “divorced marriages” was defined as marriages of spouses “who have been divorced from their former husbands or wives for other causes than that mentioned in Matthew 19, and under that divorce have married again. Shall such persons subsequently embracing present truth be received among us?” (The Review and Herald, October 14, 1862.)Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b
The Two Crowns
4bSG 109.5
The young man came to Jesus and said unto him, Matthew 19, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” Jesus gave him his choice, to part with his possessions and have eternal life, or retain them, and lose it. His riches were of greater value to him than the heavenly treasure. The condition, that he must part with his treasures, and give to the poor, in order to be a follower of Christ, and have eternal life, chilled his desire, and he went away sorrowful.Testimony for the Church — No. 8
The Two Crowns
T08 59.3
The young man came to Jesus and said unto him [Matthew 19], “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” Jesus gave him his choice, to part with his possessions and have eternal life, or retain them, and lose it. His riches were of greater value to him than the heavenly treasure. The condition, that he must part with his treasures, and give to the poor, in order to be a follower of Christ, and have eternal life, chilled his desire, and he went away sorrowful.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 1, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 1, 1889, par. 35
Don’t you know that when the young man came to Christ and asked Him what he should do that he might have life, Christ told him to keep the commandments? Said he, “I have done it.” Now the Lord wanted to bring this lesson right home. “What lack I yet? I am perfectly whole” See Matthew 19. He did not see that there was a thing the matter with him, or why he should not have eternal life. “I have done it,” he said. Now Christ touches the plague spot of his heart. He says, “Come, follow Me, and ye shall have life.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 40, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15
The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 150, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 22
In the nineteenth chapter of Matthew is recorded the case of the rich young ruler. This man’s desires and tastes were not offensive, but favorable to the growth of spirituality. As he saw Christ blessing the little children, he was convinced that He must be a very good man. He was sure he could live in perfect harmony with Him. Hastening to the Saviour, he knelt before Him, and said, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” “Why callest thou me good?” Christ asked. “There is none good but one; that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He said unto him, Which?” Jesus answered, “Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honor thy father and thy mother, and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Verses 16-19.]14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 23
“And the young man said unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” [Verse 20.] He had been flattered for his amiable traits of character. He was willing to do good things, and he flattered himself that by his strict integrity in dealing with his fellow men he was fulfilling the law. The perfection of character which he thought he possessed ranked him in the same state spiritually as was Paul, when, touching the letter of the law, he thought he was blameless. But no human standard can save a soul from death. God’s standard must be seen, acknowledged, and followed.14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 24
“If thou wilt be perfect,” Christ said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.” [Verse 21.] Jesus needed the co-operation of just such men, whom God has entrusted with His goods. It is God’s plan that those to whom He has given money or houses or lands shall act as His faithful almoners, relieving the suffering of their fellow beings, and in this way winning them to the Saviour.14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 25
By helping the Saviour to help the needy, suffering ones around him, the young ruler would indeed have been laying up treasure in heaven. The test had come to him. What would the result be? When he heard Christ’s words, “he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Verse 22.]14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 27
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And when his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?” [Verses 23-25.] They had expected the young ruler to do as Matthew had done, and because of his refusal they were sorrowful and dejected. Jesus said, “With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” [Verse 26.]14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 34
God’s messages come to His people, but they have not been, and are not yet, willing to receive them. He is testing them as surely as He was testing the young ruler when He said to [him], “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come and follow me.” [Matthew 19:21.] God calls upon His people to turn from the earthly to the heavenly, to yield up to Him His own. Nothing that they have is theirs; they themselves are not their own, for God’s Word declares, “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 53, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4
In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6
We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 91, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15
Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.