EGW WritingsMatthew 22

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 24—Without a Wedding Garment

COL 307.1

The parable of the wedding garment opens before us a lesson of the highest consequence. By the marriage is represented the union of humanity with divinity; the wedding garment represents the character which all must possess who shall be accounted fit guests for the wedding.

COL 307.2

In this parable, as in that of the great supper, are illustrated the gospel invitation, its rejection by the Jewish people, and the call of mercy to the Gentiles. But on the part of those who reject the invitation, this parable brings to view a deeper insult and a more dreadful punishment. The call to the feast is a king’s invitation. It proceeds from one who is vested with power to command. It confers high honor. Yet the honor is unappreciated. The king’s authority is despised. While the householder’s invitation was regarded with indifference, the king’s is met with insult and murder. They treated his servants with scorn, despitefully using them and slaying them.

COL 307.3

The householder, on seeing his invitation slighted, declared that none of the men who were bidden should taste of his supper. But for those who had done despite to the king, more than exclusion from his presence and his table is decreed. “He sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.”

COL 308.1

In both parables the feast is provided with guests, but the second shows that there is a preparation to be made by all who attend the feast. Those who neglect this preparation are cast out. “The king came in to see the guests,” and “saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment; and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

COL 308.2

The call to the feast had been given by Christ’s disciples. Our Lord had sent out the twelve and afterward the seventy, proclaiming that the kingdom of God was at hand, and calling upon men to repent and believe the gospel. But the call was not heeded. Those who are bidden to the feast did not come. The servants were sent out later to say, “Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.” This was the message borne to the Jewish nation after the crucifixion of Christ; but the nation that claimed to be God’s peculiar people rejected the gospel brought to them in the power of the Holy Spirit. Many did this in the most scornful manner. Others were so exasperated by the offer of salvation, the offer of pardon for rejecting the Lord of glory, that they turned upon the bearers of the message. There was “a great persecution.” Acts 8:1. Many both of men and women were thrust into prison, and some of the Lord’s messengers, as Stephen and James, were put to death.

COL 308.3

Thus the Jewish people sealed their rejection of God’s mercy. The result was foretold by Christ in the parable. The king “sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.” The judgment pronounced came upon the Jews in the destruction of Jerusalem and the scattering of the nation.

COL 309.1

The third call to the feast represents the giving of the gospel to the Gentiles. The king said, “The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.”

COL 309.2

The king’s servants who went out into the highways “gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good.” It was a mixed company. Some of them had no more real regard for the giver of the feast than had the ones who rejected the call. The class first bidden could not afford, they thought, to sacrifice any worldly advantage for the sake of attending the king’s banquet. And of those who accepted the invitation, there were some who thought only of benefiting themselves. They came to share the provisions of the feast, but had no desire to honor the king.

COL 309.3

When the king came in to view the guests, the real character of all was revealed. For every guest at the feast there had been provided a wedding garment. This garment was a gift from the king. By wearing it the guests showed their respect for the giver of the feast. But one man was clothed in his common citizen dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. Thus he insulted his lord. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” he could answer nothing. He was self-condemned. Then the king said, “Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness.”

COL 310.1

By the king’s examination of the guests at the feast is represented a work of judgment. The guests at the gospel feast are those who profess to serve God, those whose names are written in the book of life. But not all who profess to be Christians are true disciples. Before the final reward is given, it must be decided who are fitted to share the inheritance of the righteous. This decision must be made prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven; for when He comes, His reward is with Him, “to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:12. Before His coming, then, the character of every man’s work will have been determined, and to every one of Christ’s followers the reward will have been apportioned according to his deeds.

COL 310.2

It is while men are still dwelling upon the earth that the work of investigative judgment takes place in the courts of heaven. The lives of all His professed followers pass in review before God. All are examined according to the record of the books of heaven, and according to his deeds the destiny of each is forever fixed.

COL 310.3

By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess. To the church it is given “that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white,” “not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.” Revelation 19:8; Ephesians 5:27. The fine linen, says the Scripture, “is the righteousness of saints.” Revelation 19:8. It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.

COL 310.4

The white robe of innocence was worn by our first parents when they were placed by God in holy Eden. They lived in perfect conformity to the will of God. All the strength of their affections was given to their heavenly Father. A beautiful soft light, the light of God, enshrouded the holy pair. This robe of light was a symbol of their spiritual garments of heavenly innocence. Had they remained true to God it would ever have continued to enshroud them. But when sin entered, they severed their connection with God, and the light that had encircled them departed. Naked and ashamed, they tried to supply the place of the heavenly garments by sewing together fig leaves for a covering.

COL 311.1

This is what the transgressors of God’s law have done ever since the day of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. They have sewed together fig leaves to cover the nakedness caused by transgression. They have worn the garments of their own devising, by works of their own they have tried to cover their sins, and make themselves acceptable with God.

COL 311.2

But this they can never do. Nothing can man devise to supply the place of his lost robe of innocence. No fig-leaf garment, no worldly citizen dress, can be worn by those who sit down with Christ and angels at the marriage supper of the Lamb.

COL 311.3

Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul. “I counsel thee,” He says, “to buy of Me ... white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.” Revelation 3:18.

COL 311.4

This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God “was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.” Sin is defined to be “the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:5, 4. But Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law. He said of Himself, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God; yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. When on earth, He said to His disciples, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.

COL 312.1

The guests at the marriage feast were inspected by the king. Only those were accepted who had obeyed his requirements and put on the wedding garment. So it is with the guests at the gospel feast. All must pass the scrutiny of the great King, and only those are received who have put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness.

COL 312.2

Righteousness is right doing, and it is by their deeds that all will be judged. Our characters are revealed by what we do. The works show whether the faith is genuine.

COL 312.3

It is not enough for us to believe that Jesus is not an impostor, and that the religion of the Bible is no cunningly devised fable. We may believe that the name of Jesus is the only name under heaven whereby man may be saved, and yet we may not through faith make Him our personal Saviour. It is not enough to believe the theory of truth. It is not enough to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the church roll. “He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.” “Hereby we do know that we know Him if we keep His commandments.” 1 John 3:24; 1 John 2:3. This is the genuine evidence of conversion. Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righteousness.

COL 314.1

The truth is to be planted in the heart. It is to control the mind and regulate the affections. The whole character must be stamped with the divine utterances. Every jot and tittle of the word of God is to be brought into the daily practice.

COL 314.2

He who becomes a partaker of the divine nature will be in harmony with God’s great standard of righteousness, His holy law. This is the rule by which God measures the actions of men. This will be the test of character in the judgment.

COL 314.3

There are many who claim that by the death of Christ the law was abrogated; but in this they contradict Christ’s own words, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets.... Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:17, 18. It was to atone for man’s transgression of the law that Christ laid down His life. Could the law have been changed or set aside, then Christ need not have died. By His life on earth He honored the law of God. By His death He established it. He gave His life as a sacrifice, not to destroy God’s law, not to create a lower standard, but that justice might be maintained, that the law might be shown to be immutable, that it might stand fast forever.

COL 314.4

Satan had claimed that it was impossible for man to obey God’s commandments; and in our own strength it is true that we cannot obey them. But Christ came in the form of humanity, and by His perfect obedience He proved that humanity and divinity combined can obey every one of God’s precepts.

COL 314.5

“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12. This power is not in the human agent. It is the power of God. When a soul receives Christ, he receives power to live the life of Christ.

COL 315.1

God requires perfection of His children. His law is a transcript of His own character, and it is the standard of all character. This infinite standard is presented to all that there may be no mistake in regard to the kind of people whom God will have to compose His kingdom. The life of Christ on earth was a perfect expression of God’s law, and when those who claim to be children of God become Christlike in character, they will be obedient to God’s commandments. Then the Lord can trust them to be of the number who shall compose the family of heaven. Clothed in the glorious apparel of Christ’s righteousness, they have a place at the King’s feast. They have a right to join the blood-washed throng.

COL 315.2

The man who came to the feast without a wedding garment represents the condition of many in our world today. They profess to be Christians, and lay claim to the blessings and privileges of the gospel; yet they feel no need of a transformation of character. They have never felt true repentance for sin. They do not realize their need of Christ or exercise faith in Him. They have not overcome their hereditary or cultivated tendencies to wrongdoing. Yet they think that they are good enough in themselves, and they rest upon their own merits instead of trusting in Christ. Hearers of the word, they come to the banquet, but they have not put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness.

COL 315.3

Many who call themselves Christians are mere human moralists. They have refused the gift which alone could enable them to honor Christ by representing Him to the world. The work of the Holy Spirit is to them a strange work. They are not doers of the word. The heavenly principles that distinguish those who are one with Christ from those who are one with the world have become almost indistinguishable. The professed followers of Christ are no longer a separate and peculiar people. The line of demarcation is indistinct. The people are subordinating themselves to the world, to its practices, its customs, its selfishness. The church has gone over to the world in transgression of the law, when the world should have come over to the church in obedience to the law. Daily the church is being converted to the world.

COL 316.1

All these expect to be saved by Christ’s death, while they refuse to live His self-sacrificing life. They extol the riches of free grace, and attempt to cover themselves with an appearance of righteousness, hoping to screen their defects of character; but their efforts will be of no avail in the day of God.

COL 316.2

The righteousness of Christ will not cover one cherished sin. A man may be a law-breaker in heart; yet if he commits no outward act of transgression, he may be regarded by the world as possessing great integrity. But God’s law looks into the secrets of the heart. Every act is judged by the motives that prompt it. Only that which is in accord with the principles of God’s law will stand in the judgment.

COL 316.3

God is love. He has shown that love in the gift of Christ. When “He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life,” He withheld nothing from His purchased possession. (John 3:16.) He gave all heaven, from which we may draw strength and efficiency, that we be not repulsed or overcome by our great adversary. But the love of God does not lead Him to excuse sin. He did not excuse it in Satan; He did not excuse it in Adam or in Cain; nor will He excuse it in any other of the children of men. He will not connive at our sins or overlook our defects of character. He expects us to overcome in His name.

COL 316.4

Those who reject the gift of Christ’s righteousness are rejecting the attributes of character which would constitute them the sons and daughters of God. They are rejecting that which alone could give them a fitness for a place at the marriage feast.

COL 317.1

In the parable, when the king inquired, “How camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” the man was speechless. So it will be in the great judgment day. Men may now excuse their defects of character, but in that day they will offer no excuse.

COL 317.2

The professed churches of Christ in this generation are exalted to the highest privileges. The Lord has been revealed to us in ever-increasing light. Our privileges are far greater than were the privileges of God’s ancient people. We have not only the great light committed to Israel, but we have the increased evidence of the great salvation brought to us through Christ. That which was type and symbol to the Jews is reality to us. They had the Old Testament history; we have that and the New Testament also. We have the assurance of a Saviour who has come, a Saviour who has been crucified, who has risen, and over the rent sepulcher of Joseph has proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life.” In our knowledge of Christ and His love the kingdom of God is placed in the midst of us. Christ is revealed to us in sermons and chanted to us in songs. The spiritual banquet is set before us in rich abundance. The wedding garment, provided at infinite cost, is freely offered to every soul. By the messengers of God are presented to us the righteousness of Christ, justification by faith, the exceeding great and precious promises of God’s word, free access to the Father by Christ, the comfort of the Spirit, the well-grounded assurance of eternal life in the kingdom of God. What could God do for us that He has not done in providing the great supper, the heavenly banquet?

COL 318.1

In heaven it is said by the ministering angels: The ministry which we have been commissioned to perform we have done. We pressed back the army of evil angels. We sent brightness and light into the souls of men, quickening their memory of the love of God expressed in Jesus. We attracted their eyes to the cross of Christ. Their hearts were deeply moved by a sense of the sin that crucified the Son of God. They were convicted. They saw the steps to be taken in conversion; they felt the power of the gospel; their hearts were made tender as they saw the sweetness of the love of God. They beheld the beauty of the character of Christ. But with the many it was all in vain. They would not surrender their own habits and character. They would not put off the garments of earth in order to be clothed with the robe of heaven. Their hearts were given to covetousness. They loved the associations of the world more than they loved their God.

COL 318.2

Solemn will be the day of final decision. In prophetic vision the apostle John describes it: “I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:11, 12.

COL 318.3

Sad will be the retrospect in that day when men stand face to face with eternity. The whole life will present itself just as it has been. The world’s pleasures, riches, and honors will not then seem so important. Men will then see that the righteousness they despised is alone of value. They will see that they have fashioned their characters under the deceptive allurements of Satan. The garments they have chosen are the badge of their allegiance to the first great apostate. Then they will see the results of their choice. They will have a knowledge of what it means to transgress the commandments of God.

COL 319.1

There will be no future probation in which to prepare for eternity. It is in this life that we are to put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. This is our only opportunity to form characters for the home which Christ has made ready for those who obey His commandments.

COL 319.2

The days of our probation are fast closing. The end is near. To us the warning is given, “Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” Luke 21:34. Beware lest it find you unready. Take heed lest you be found at the King’s feast without a wedding garment.

COL 319.3

“In such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” “Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Matthew 24:44; Revelation 16:15.

God’s Amazing Grace

The Royal Robe, January 16

AG 24.2

The parable of the wedding garment [Matthew 22:1-14] opens before us a lesson of the highest consequence.... By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess.... The fine linen, says the Scripture, “is the righteousness of saints.” It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.

Our Father Cares

The Royal Robe, August 3

OFC 227.2

The parable of the wedding garment [Matthew 22:1-14] opens before us a lesson of the highest consequence.... By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess.... The fine linen, says the Scripture, “is the righteousness of saints.” It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.

From the Heart

The Marriage of the King’s Son, April 20

FH 122.1

The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. Matthew 22:2, 3. (Read Matthew 22:1-14.)

From the Heart

The Wedding Garment, April 21

FH 123.1

When the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. Matthew 22:11. (Read Matthew 22:1-14.)

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

I. Shut-Door Views From 1844 to 1852

1EGWLM 43.3

For Bridegroom Adventists the basic theological argument was drawn from the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25. They made the parable allegorical of their 1844 experience, and believed that on or about October 22, 1844, Jesus had gone into a heavenly wedding. The Advent Mirror divided the marriage into two steps: the actual marriage and the marriage supper. The marriage, it was argued, occurred in heaven and preceded the literal Second Coming. Turner and Hale presented the coming of the Son of man to the Ancient of Days in Daniel 7:9, 10, 13, 14, as describing events connected with a heavenly marriage. The Ancient of Days—God the Father—sat in judgment and gave to the Son of man—Jesus—“dominion, glory and a kingdom.” Christ was made king as He received the New Jerusalem at the marriage. Then, as king, Jesus went from the wedding to the “marriage supper,” which occurred when He gathered His saints at the Second Coming. Thus they linked the autumn 1844 date to the marriage that they believed confirmed the soon return of Jesus. The Advent Mirror placed post-Disappointment Advent believers in the “guest chamber” waiting for the marriage supper. The guest-chamber concept came from another parable found in Matthew 22:1-14. The “guests,” or the faithful ones on earth, were waiting for Jesus to come literally to the earth from the heavenly wedding. They further argued that the “guests,” or virgins, had responded to the call leading up to the tenth day of the seventh month on October 22, 1844, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh.” They had trimmed their lamps and had gone figuratively to meet the Bridegroom.11A. Hale and J. Turner, “Has Not the Savior Come as the Bridegroom?” Advent Mirror, January 1845, pp. 1, 2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 143, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 143, 1898, par. 3

“And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on the wedding garment.” [Matthew 22:1-11.] This garment was a gift from the king, and in using it the guests showed respect to him who had made every provision for the feast. “And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” [Verses 12-14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 185, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 185, 1903, par. 1

Comments on Matthew 22:1-14; 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-18

18LtMs, Ms 185, 1903, par. 2

“And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:1-14.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 29, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 29, 1898, par. 1

“And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding.” [Matthew 22:1-3.]

13LtMs, Ms 29, 1898, par. 5

Again the king sent to those who had refused his invitation, giving them every opportunity to reflect, and accept the gracious call. “Tell them which are bidden,” he said, “Behold I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready; come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, and another to his merchandise. And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.” [Matthew 22:4-6.]

13LtMs, Ms 29, 1898, par. 10

But the scene changes. The king comes in to examine the guests and he sees one who has come to the table without the wedding garment which he himself had provided. He is clothed in his old citizen dress; the garment provided for him has not been deemed essential. Why should he insult his lord by refusing to wear the dress he has prepared for him? Addressing the one who has thus dishonored him, the king says, “Friend, how camest thou in hither, not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.” [Matthew 22:12.] This man had accepted the call merely to advantage himself. “Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” [Verses 13, 14.]

13LtMs, Ms 29, 1898, par. 14

Christ sent forth His disciples, first twelve, and later seventy, preaching the Word, and declaring, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 10:7.] But the invitation was not accepted. They would not come. These servants were sent out later to say, “Behold, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are now ready. Come unto the marriage.” [Matthew 22:4.] This was the message borne to the Jewish nation after the Lord was crucified, but the nation that claimed to be God’s peculiar people rejected the gospel brought to them in the power of the Holy Spirit. Many did this in the most scornful manner, while others were so exasperated by the offer of salvation, the offer of pardon for rejecting the Lord of life and glory, that they turned upon the bearers of the message, stoning Stephen, killing James by the sword, and haling men and women committing them to prison. But in the arrest of Paul by Christ lies a wonderful lesson for us all. It teaches that even if those who taunted Him upon the cross, who abused Him in the judgment hall, had repented as did Saul, they would have been forgiven.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 149, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 149, 1898, par. 3

In the second parable of the invitation (Matthew 22:1-22), a deeper insult is brought to view and the punishment is more dreadful. It is a king’s invitation, it comes from one who is vested with power to command. This feast involved much, but the king’s command met with no more favorable response than had the householder’s; and a deeper guilt lay at the door of those who refused this invitation. They made light of it, pleading circumstances and supposed duties for their failure to comply with his request. They treated his messengers with scorn, despitefully using them and slaying them. This brought upon them the wrath of the king. More than exclusion from his presence and his table was their punishment. He sent forth his armies and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their cities.

13LtMs, Ms 149, 1898, par. 7

In the parable Christ speaks of the invitation being given in the highways and hedges. “As many as ye shall find,” He says, “bid to the marriage.” [Matthew 22:9.] The Lord required just as implicit obedience and high-principled service from the newly invited guests as from those first called. There must be no mistake made in regard to those called to the heavenly banquet. But “when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having the wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, for many are called, but few are chosen.” [Verses 11-14.]

The Great Controversy

Chapter 24—In the Holy of Holies

GC 428.1

In the parable of Matthew 22 the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Matthew 22:11; Revelation 7:14. He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 151, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 15

At three o’clock in the afternoon I spoke from (Matthew 22), the call to the Supper, making especial reference to the man who came in without the wedding garment. When the king came in to examine the guests, this man was asked, “Friend, how camest thou in hither, not having on a wedding garment?” [Verse 12.] The Lord gave me earnest things to say to the people. I felt very much in earnest as I sought to arouse the attention of all to understand what would be the result if any present should be found without the wedding garment. This garment is the white linen, representing the righteousness of the saints. At infinite cost to heaven this provision has been made to all, that they may receive grace and sanctification of the Spirit, and be among the blood-washed throng. We must put on this garment in this life. We must be clothed with the righteousness of Christ.

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.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 24—In the Holy of Holies

GC88 428.1

In the parable of Matthew 22 the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative Judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, [Matthew 22:11.]—to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. [Revelation 7:14.] He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on, are accepted of God, and accounted worthy of a share in his kingdom and a seat upon his throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative Judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.

The Review and Herald

March 28, 1899

RH March 28, 1899, par. 3

Sabbath morning there was a good attendance at the Sabbath-school. At the forenoon service Elder Haskell spoke from the words, “We would see Jesus.” Like the Greeks who made this request, the people seemed deeply interested, and the discourse made a deep impression. In the afternoon I spoke about the call to the supper, recorded in Matthew 22. I made special reference to the man who came in without the wedding garment; and sought to arouse all to understand what would be the result if any are found without the wedding garment, the white linen, the robe of Christ’s righteousness, provided by the King for all who are bidden to the supper. At an infinite cost to heaven, provision has been made for all, that they may receive grace and sanctification of the Spirit, and be numbered with the blood-washed throng. The wedding garment must be put on in this life. In this life we are to be clothed with the righteousness of Christ. In the evening, Elder Haskell spoke to a large congregation.

From Here to Forever

Closing Work in the Sanctuary

HF 265.1

In the parable of Matthew 22 the judgment takes place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see if all the guests are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14. All who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted and accounted worthy of a share in God’s kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character is the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.

Christ in His Sanctuary

Scriptural Foundations

CIHS 157.1

In the parable of Matthew 22 the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Matthew 22:11; Revelation 7:14. He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.

Christ in His Sanctuary

Study Questions

8. How does the parable of Matthew 22 picture the work of judgment? (106)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 8, 1874

2LtMs, Ms 8, 1874, par. 1

The words which I have selected as a foundation for a few remarks you will find in the 22nd chapter of Matthew, beginning at the first verse. “And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: and the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good; and the wedding was furnished with guests.”

2LtMs, Ms 8, 1874, par. 4

“Again he sendeth forth servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise.” [Matthew 22:4, 5.]

2LtMs, Ms 8, 1874, par. 6

“Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden are not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways and as many as ye shall find bid to the marriage.” [Matthew 22:8, 9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 187, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 23

At three o’clock in the afternoon I spoke from (Matthew 22), the call to the Supper, making especial reference to the man who came in without the wedding garment. When the king came in to examine the guests, this man was asked, “Friend, how camest thou in hither, not having on a wedding garment?” [Verse 12.] The Lord gave me earnest things to say to the people. I felt very much in earnest as I sought to arouse the attention of all to understand what would be the result if any present should be found without the wedding garment. This garment is the white linen, representing the righteousness of the saints. At infinite cost to heaven this provision has been made for all, that they may receive grace and sanctification of the spirit, and be among the blood-washed throng. We must put on this garment in this life. We must be clothed with the righteousness of Christ.

The Upward Look

Have You Accepted the Invitation? October 17

UL 304.1

The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son. Matthew 22:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 46, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, par. 1

“The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, behold, I prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise, and the remnant took his servants and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. And when the king heard thereof, he was wroth, and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, the wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye can find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:2-10.]

11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, par. 13

In this parable Jesus plainly warned the Jews of the fate that awaited Jerusalem in rejecting the only means that God had provided to save them. The Romans were permitted to carry out their purpose and to destroy the fated city. Then said He to His servants, “The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all that they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:8-10.] In Luke the Lord bids His servants to “go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in ... Bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. ... For I say unto you that none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.” [Luke 14:21, 23, 24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 18, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 1

“The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding; and they would not come. Again he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: and the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:2-10.]

14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 3

When the princes of the land refused the invitation, the king sent his messenger into the highways, where were found those who were not so absorbed in the work of buying and selling, planting and building. Building transactions were not made of such importance that eternity was left out of the reckoning. “The wedding is ready,” the king said, “but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:8-10.]

14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 4

“And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: and he said unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” [Verses 11-14.]

14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 19

The man who came in to the feast without the wedding garment represents those who violate God’s law. Christ gave his life to make it possible for God to pardon sin. Violation of the law caused Adam to lose Eden. The disobedient can never enter in through the gates of the city. They can never have a right to the tree of life. The Lord has made every provision that no one shall in any way dishonor him. He was provided the wedding garment, the righteousness of Christ, and it is essential that we be clothed with this garment, that we may show faith in Christ. Those who think they are complete without the righteousness of Christ will find in the end that they have lost their souls. Faith is made perfect by works. Those who make no change in character, yet claim the privilege of being called Christians, are without the wedding garment. They think they are good enough, virtuous enough, in themselves. Without faith in Christ, they rest upon their own merits. True repentance for sin they have never felt. Therefore when Christ comes in to examine the guests, the command goes forth, “Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into outer darkness.” [Matthew 22:13.]

14LtMs, Ms 18, 1899, par. 20

“Many are called, but few chosen.” [Verse 14.] This is a true statement of the final outcome. Many come in not having on the wedding garment. They do not accept Christ’s righteousness. They have not repented and made peace with God. They have not received the free gift. Man is very dear to the heart of God, and all are invited to the feast. Those who clothe themselves in the garment provided find abundant entrance. As they receive the righteousness of the Saviour, God places His stamp upon them.

This Day With God

He Is Always With Me, September 23

TDG 275.4

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). How would they see God?—in the way that Enoch saw Him. They had the privilege of walking and talking with God. By faith Enoch lived in the presence of God three hundred years. By faith he saw the faith of Jesus. He was taken into special favor with Him. The priests and rulers needed just such an experience as Enoch had. They needed a continual sense of the presence of God. O what riches of grace the Lord longed to bestow upon the favored people of God. It is represented in the call to the supper prepared for them, “All things are ready: come” (chap. 22:4).—Manuscript 96, September 23, 1897, “The Jew’s Rejection of Christ.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 203, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 203, 1903, par. 1

I cannot sleep this morning after three o’clock. I take my pen and write things which have been pressing upon my mind. I was in a very large assembly and there were two parties—one was on the right hand, another on the left. Both seemed to be very anxious. [Then] One of authority came in. [The] guests were those who had been invited to the Marriage Supper. An invitation had been taken up by sent messengers, “Come, for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.] There was an examination of the guests [who had] come, but many who were bidden made various excuses to excuse their not accepting the invitation. Then said Christ to His servants, “The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.” [Matthew 22:8, 9.] So those servants went at once into the highway and gathered together as many as they found, both bad and good, and the wedding was furnished with guests. Here is the order of working; every effort must be [made].

18LtMs, Ms 203, 1903, par. 2

The highway invitation needs to be carefully considered, that the presentation at the wedding may be a proper representation. The first invitation was rejected, representing the churches, then the second [went to] all classes. There must be the invitation not merely to those who compose the churches, but those who are in the highways are to be addressed, that there shall be a presentation that will represent the importance of the occasion. “And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on the wedding garment. And he said to him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said Christ to His servants, Bind him, hand and foot, and take him away and cast him into outer darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, for many are called but few are chosen.” [Verses 11-14.]

18LtMs, Ms 203, 1903, par. 7

The Lord God of heaven, who so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that you should not perish but have everlasting life, will make you His only on condition that you shall come out from the world and be separate, “and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Should you stand before the Judge of the quick and the dead and reveal your loyalty [when] you do not keep the commands of God but the precepts of men, there is not the designation that God will acknowledge you as His peculiar people, a holy nation. [Christ will say,] “How came you into the marriage supper of the Lamb, disregarding the robe of righteousness I purchased for you with the price of My own blood?” [See Matthew 22:12.] As He addressed leaders [He said], “Have you given these sentiments of disregard to those you were educating and training? You have [shown] in all your manners that you considered your own clothing good enough to enter the heavenly courts. Your case is far worse than those who refused to come at all. Because of your speech, your spirit, you have brought to the foundation hay, wood, and stubble, material that will not stand the test of the day of God but will be consumed.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 196, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 196, 1902, par. 7

Take the books to business men, to teachers of the gospel, whose minds have not been called to the special truths for this time. The message is to be given “in the highways”—to men who take an active part in the world’s work, to the teachers and leaders of the people. [Matthew 22:9.] Thousands can be reached in the most simple, humble way. The most intellectual, those who are looked upon as the world’s most gifted men and women, are often refreshed by the simple words of one who loves God, and who can speak of that love as naturally as the worldling speaks of the things that interest him most deeply. Often the words well prepared and studied have but little influence. But the true, honest expression of a son or daughter of God, spoken in natural simplicity, has power to unbolt the door to hearts that have long been closed against Christ and His love.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 79, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 79, 1908, par. 4

In the parable of the marriage of the king’s son, Jesus relates how after earnest efforts “the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:10.] He continues:

23LtMs, Ms 79, 1908, par. 5

“When the king came in to see the guests, He saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: and he said unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” [Verses 11-14.]

23LtMs, Ms 79, 1908, par. 6

It has been repeatedly revealed to me that many professing Christians will, in the time of final test, be greatly disappointed. Many, many will fail to provide themselves with that righteousness of Christ represented in the parable by the wedding garment. They have trusted in their own righteousness and have not manifested the humility of Jesus Christ. They may be seated at the supper table with others, but Christ will recognize them, and will say to them, “How camest thou in hither not having on a wedding garment?” [Verse 12.]

Homeward Bound

Behold, the Bridegroom Cometh, October 14

HB 315.4

In the parable of Matthew 22 the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. (Matthew 22:11; Revelation 7:14.) The one who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.—The Great Controversy, 427, 428.

Maranatha

White Raiment Required, March 11

Mar 78.1

When the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? Matthew 22:11, 12.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Garment Changed, October 15

YRP 297.1

And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Matthew 22:11, 12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 185, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 185, 1905, par. 17

Recently, in the night visions, we seemed to be in an assembly. Some plain questions were asked those present. A hand was laid upon your shoulder, Edson, and the words were spoken, “Have you on the wedding garment?” [See Matthew 22:11, 12.] Still more earnestly the question was repeated, “Have you on the robe of Christ’s righteousness? How is it with you in your ordinary business? How is it with your temper?”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 137, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 137, 1908, par. 10

“And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment.” [Matthew 22:11.] For every guest at the feast, there had been provided a wedding garment. This garment was a gift from the king. By wearing it, the guests showed their respect for the giver of the feast. But one man was clothed in his common citizen dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at a great cost he disdained to wear. Thus he insulted his lord. To the king’s [question] “How camest thou in hither, not having a wedding garment?” he could answer nothing. He was self-condemned. Then the king said, “Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness.” [Verses 12, 13.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]

A Meeting Which Marked Progress; Last European Council Attended by Ellen G. White Moss, Norway, 1887

2MR 140.1

At 3:00 p.m. we again spoke to the church in Kettering from Matthew 22:11-14. This was a most solemn subject and the Lord impressed my heart with the terrible fate of the ones who, when Jesus shall come to examine His guests, He shall find without the wedding garment on. I think many were impressed. After the discourse there was a social meeting and many testimonies borne, but I felt that souls were in peril. Souls were undecided, and I urged that those who were not fully on the Lord’s side should make decisions that day—should break the chains of the powers of Satan and be wholly the Lord’s. I gave opportunity for these to come forward.

Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887

A busy month in England

EGWE 308.1

“At three P.M. we again spoke to the church in Kettering from Matthew 22:11-14. This was a most solemn subject and the Lord impressed my heart with the terrible fate of the ones who, when Jesus shall come to examine His guests, He shall find without the wedding garment on. I think many were impressed. After the discourse there was a social meeting and many testimonies borne, but I felt that souls were in peril. Souls were undecided and I urged that those who were not fully on the Lord’s side should make decisions that day—should break the chains of the powers of Satan and be wholly the Lord’s.”—Ibid.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 36, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 36, 1887, par. 9

At three P.M. we again spoke to the church in Kettering from Matthew 22:11-14. This was a most solemn subject, and the Lord impressed my heart with the terrible fate of the ones who, when Jesus shall come to examine His guests, He shall find without the wedding garment on. I think many were impressed. After the discourse there was a social meeting and many testimonies borne, but I felt that souls were in peril. Souls were undecided, and I urged that those who were not fully on the Lord’s side should make decisions that day—should break the chains of the powers of Satan and be wholly the Lord’s. I gave opportunity for these to come forward.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 10, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 10, 1906, par. 10

“Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle Him in His talk. And they sent out unto Him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that Thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest Thou for any man: for Thou regardest not the person of men. Tell us therefore, What thinkest Thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye Me, ye hypocrites? Show Me the tribute money. And they brought unto Him a penny. And He saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto Him, Caesar’s. Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s. When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him, and went their way.” Matthew 22:11-22.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 6—The Loving Watchcare of Jesus

1SM 80.3

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love, and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Mark 8:34). Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus. They are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his common citizen dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” (Matthew 22:12) he could answer nothing. He was speechless; for he was self-condemned.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 95, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 95, 1906, par. 67

I pray Thee, my heavenly Father, that Thou wouldst flash light upon the people here, that they may obey the call. If they repent not, Thou wilt have to say to them, “How canst thou come in hither, not having on the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] It is the wedding garment of Christ’s righteousness that must be put on. Oh, Lord, I ask Thee to have compassion upon human minds in this congregation! I pray Thee, Lord, that they may not go on hardening their hearts any longer. I pray Thee that this awful manifestation of self may be broken up. I pray Thee that self may be crucified, and that self may die, in order that there may be a reconversion in the midst of us, and that souls may be brought to humble themselves before Thee, and to be reconverted.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 109, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, par. 48

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus; they are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his citizen’s dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost, he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in hither not having on the wedding garment?” he could answer nothing; for he was self-condemned. [Matthew 22:12.]

The Upward Look

Justice Will Take the Throne, October 14

UL 301.3

To the marriage supper of the Lamb will come many who have not on the wedding garment—the robe [Christ] purchased for them with His lifeblood. From lips that never make a mistake come the words, “Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” (Matthew 22:12). Those [thus] addressed are speechless. They know that words would be useless. The truth, with its sanctifying power, has not been brought into the soul, and the tongue that once spoke so readily of the truth is now silent. The words are then spoken, “Take them out of My presence. They are not worthy to taste of My supper” (cf. Luke 14:24).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 22, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 22, 1892, par. 7

And if all could have spiritual discernment, they would see that they could not offend the Lord Jesus in so marked a manner as to keep on their old citizen’s garments as good enough for them. And when accosted by the Master’s friend who said, “Friend, how comest thou in hither not having a wedding garment?” what excuse can you render? [Matthew 22:12.] There was the wedding garment provided at great cost, but passed by, by the self-satisfied one who preferred his own ideas, customs, and practices, and without the wedding garment in his self-importance, takes his seat among the company.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 197, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 197, 1899, par. 16

I see you becoming an untruthful man. This bears down my soul with grief inexpressible. What can I say to help you? You are devising, you are planning, that Battle Creek shall bear the name of JHK as a remarkable man, but the curtain has been lifted. You are represented to me as seated at the marriage supper without the true significance of your state, and the Lord Jesus came in and said, “Friend, how comest thou in hither without the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] I do not want you to continue this kind of labor until our work shall be lowered into the dust. God has a most sacred work to be done and you are moulding minds not after the order of our Lord.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 121, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 121, 1903, par. 4

To the marriage supper of the Lamb will come many who have not on the wedding garment—the robe purchased for them with His life-blood. From lips that never make a mistake come the words, “Friend, how camest thou in hither not having on the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] Those addressed are speechless. They know that words would be useless. The truth, with its sanctifying power, has not been brought into the soul, and the tongue that once spoke so readily of the truth is now silent. The words are spoken, “Take them out of My presence. They are not worthy to taste of My supper.” [See Luke 14:24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 181, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 181, 1903, par. 7

My desire for you is to see you standing where you bear evidence that you are led by the Lord, in unity with God and your brethren. When your life bears this evidence, there will be a proper binding off of the work that has been begun. But you need to make a different showing in spiritual things. I entreat you, for your soul’s sake, to heed the invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb. If you should come to this supper as you now are, the question would be asked you, “Friend, how camest thou in hither, not having on the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] I want you to put on the white robe of Christ’s righteousness. At present, you have it not on.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 147, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 147, 1903, par. 6

Many will come with the chosen to the marriage supper of the Lamb who have not on the wedding garment—the robe prepared for them with the price of His own life’s blood. From lips that never make a mistake come the words, “Friend, how camest thou in hither not having on the wedding garment?” [Matthew 22:12.] Those addressed are speechless. They know that words would be useless. The truth, with its sanctifying power, has not been brought into the soul, and the tongue that once spoke so readily of the truth is now silent. The words are spoken, “Take them out of My presence. They are not worthy to taste of My supper.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 91, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 10

My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus. They are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his common citizen-dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in thither not having on a wedding garment?” he could answer nothing. [Matthew 22:12.] He was speechless; for he was self-condemned.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 162, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 162, 1903, par. 19

He comes to the feast provided by the Lord, but he does not put on the wedding garment. He comes clothed in his common citizen dress, disdaining to wear the garment provided for him at great cost. And when the Lord asks, “How camest thou in hither, not having a wedding garment?” he can answer nothing. [Matthew 22:12.] He is self-condemned. And the Lord says, “Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness.” [Verse 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 13, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 13, 1893, par. 14

Unless those who are supposed to be missionary workers are faithful, the sooner they are dismissed the better it will be for them and the cause of truth. The slipshod workers may expect dearth wherever they go. To every man is committed his work. You are expected to train that talent. To the one that neglected to train the talent it was said, “Take him and cast him into outer darkness.” [Matthew 22:13.] Here is the judgment of God against the slothful servant. He said of God, “We knew thee that thou wast an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sowed, and gathering where thou hast not strawed.” [Matthew 25:24.] He lied against God. He did not know God at all.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 87, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 22

“Many are called, but few are chosen.” [Matthew 22:14.] The Lord’s invitation continued from early morning till the last hour of the day. But many who accept His invitation possess only the theory of the truth. They have not that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. They think they are entitled to large wages because of their service. They claim to have served God all their lives, as did the Jews, but they reveal a spirit that is querulous and faultfinding. Thus they show that there is no connection between God and their souls.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Judge of All, January 5

JNN 12.1

“For many are called, but few are chosen.”—Matthew 22:14

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 66—Controversy

DA 601.1

The priests and rulers had listened in silence to Christ’s pointed rebukes. They could not refute His charges. But they were only the more determined to entrap Him, and with this object they sent to Him spies, “which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of His words, that so they might deliver Him unto the power and authority of the governor.” They did not send the old Pharisees whom Jesus had often met, but young men, who were ardent and zealous, and whom, they thought, Christ did not know. These were accompanied by certain of the Herodians, who were to hear Christ’s words, that they might testify against Him at His trial. The Pharisees and Herodians had been bitter enemies, but they were now one in enmity to Christ.

DA 601.2

The Pharisees had ever chafed under the exaction of tribute by the Romans. The payment of tribute they held to be contrary to the law of God. Now they saw opportunity to lay a snare for Jesus. The spies came to Him, and with apparent sincerity, as though desiring to know their duty, said, “Master, we know that Thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest Thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?”

DA 602.1

The words, “We know that Thou sayest and teachest rightly,” had they been sincere, would have been a wonderful admission. But they were spoken to deceive; nevertheless their testimony was true. The Pharisees did know that Christ said and taught rightly, and by their own testimony will they be judged.

DA 602.2

Those who put the question to Jesus thought that they had sufficiently disguised their purpose; but Jesus read their hearts as an open book, and sounded their hypocrisy. “Why tempt ye Me?” He said; thus giving them a sign they had not asked, by showing that He read their hidden purpose. They were still more confused when He added, “Show Me a penny.” They brought it, and He asked them, “Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar’s.” Pointing to the inscription on the coin, Jesus said, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”

DA 602.3

The spies had expected Jesus to answer their question directly, in one way or the other. If He should say, It is unlawful to give tribute to Caesar, He would be reported to the Roman authorities and arrested for inciting rebellion. But in case He should pronounce it lawful to pay the tribute, they designed to accuse Him to the people as opposing the law of God. Now they felt themselves baffled and defeated. Their plans were disarranged. The summary manner in which their question had been settled left them nothing further to say.

DA 602.4

Christ’s reply was no evasion, but a candid answer to the question. Holding in His hand the Roman coin, upon which were stamped the name and image of Caesar, He declared that since they were living under the protection of the Roman power, they should render to that power the support it claimed, so long as this did not conflict with a higher duty. But while peaceably subject to the laws of the land, they should at all times give their first allegiance to God.

DA 602.5

The Saviour’s words, “Render ... unto God the things that are God’s,” were a severe rebuke to the intriguing Jews. Had they faithfully fulfilled their obligations to God, they would not have become a broken nation, subject to a foreign power. No Roman ensign would have waved over Jerusalem, no Roman sentinel would have stood at her gates, no Roman governor would have ruled within her walls. The Jewish nation was then paying the penalty of its apostasy from God.

DA 602.6

When the Pharisees heard Christ’s answer, “they marveled, and left Him, and went their way.” He had rebuked their hypocrisy and presumption, and in doing this He had stated a great principle, a principle that clearly defines the limits of man’s duty to the civil government and his duty to God. In many minds a vexed question had been settled. Ever after they held to the right principle. And although many went away dissatisfied, they saw that the principle underlying the question had been clearly set forth, and they marveled at Christ’s far-seeing discernment.

DA 603.1

No sooner were the Pharisees silenced than the Sadducees came forward with their artful questions. The two parties stood in bitter opposition to each other. The Pharisees were rigid adherents to tradition. They were exact in outward ceremonies, diligent in washings, fastings, and long prayers, and ostentatious in almsgiving. But Christ declared that they made void the law of God by teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. As a class they were bigoted and hypocritical; yet among them were persons of genuine piety, who accepted Christ’s teachings and became His disciples. The Sadducees rejected the traditions of the Pharisees. They professed to believe the greater portion of the Scriptures, and to regard them as the rule of action; but practically they were skeptics and materialists.

DA 603.2

The Sadducees denied the existence of angels, the resurrection of the dead, and the doctrine of a future life, with its rewards and punishments. On all these points they differed with the Pharisees. Between the two parties the resurrection was especially a subject of controversy. The Pharisees had been firm believers in the resurrection, but in these discussions their views in regard to the future state became confused. Death became to them an inexplicable mystery. Their inability to meet the arguments of the Sadducees gave rise to continual irritation. The discussions between the two parties usually resulted in angry disputes, leaving them farther apart than before.

DA 604.1

In numbers the Sadducees fell far below their opponents, and they had not so strong a hold upon the common people; but many of them were wealthy, and they had the influence which wealth imparts. In their ranks were included most of the priests, and from among them the high priest was usually chosen. This was, however, with the express stipulation that their skeptical opinions should not be made prominent. On account of the numbers and popularity of the Pharisees, it was necessary for the Sadducees to concede outwardly to their doctrines when holding any priestly office; but the very fact that they were eligible to such office gave influence to their errors.

DA 604.2

The Sadducees rejected the teaching of Jesus; He was animated by a spirit which they would not acknowledge as manifesting itself thus; and His teaching in regard to God and the future life contradicted their theories. They believed in God as the only being superior to man; but they argued that an overruling providence and a divine foresight would deprive man of free moral agency, and degrade him to the position of a slave. It was their belief, that, having created man, God had left him to himself, independent of a higher influence. They held that man was free to control his own life and to shape the events of the world; that his destiny was in his own hands. They denied that the Spirit of God works through human efforts or natural means. Yet they still held that, through the proper employment of his natural powers, man could become elevated and enlightened; that by rigorous and austere exactions his life could be purified.

DA 604.3

Their ideas of God molded their own character. As in their view He had no interest in man, so they had little regard for one another; there was little union among them. Refusing to acknowledge the influence of the Holy Spirit upon human action, they lacked His power in their lives. Like the rest of the Jews, they boasted much of their birthright as children of Abraham, and of their strict adherence to the requirements of the law; but of the true spirit of the law and the faith and benevolence of Abraham, they were destitute. Their natural sympathies were brought within a narrow compass. They believed it possible for all men to secure the comforts and blessings of life; and their hearts were not touched by the wants and sufferings of others. They lived for themselves.

DA 605.1

By His words and His works, Christ testified to a divine power that produces supernatural results, to a future life beyond the present, to God as a Father of the children of men, ever watchful of their true interests. He revealed the working of divine power in benevolence and compassion that rebuked the selfish exclusiveness of the Sadducees. He taught that both for man’s temporal and for his eternal good, God moves upon the heart by the Holy Spirit. He showed the error of trusting to human power for that transformation of character which can be wrought only by the Spirit of God.

DA 605.2

This teaching the Sadducees were determined to discredit. In seeking a controversy with Jesus, they felt confident of bringing Him into disrepute, even if they could not secure His condemnation. The resurrection was the subject on which they chose to question Him. Should He agree with them, He would give still further offense to the Pharisees. Should He differ with them, they designed to hold His teaching up to ridicule.

DA 605.3

The Sadducees reasoned that if the body is to be composed of the same particles of matter in its immortal as in its mortal state, then when raised from the dead it must have flesh and blood, and must resume in the eternal world the life interrupted on earth. In that case they concluded that earthly relationships would be resumed, husband and wife would be reunited, marriages consummated, and all things go on the same as before death, the frailties and passions of this life being perpetuated in the life beyond.

DA 605.4

In answer to their questions, Jesus lifted the veil from the future life. “In the resurrection,” He said, “they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.” He showed that the Sadducees were wrong in their belief. Their premises were false. “Ye do err,” He added, “not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” He did not charge them, as He had charged the Pharisees, with hypocrisy, but with error of belief.

DA 605.5

The Sadducees had flattered themselves that they of all men adhered most strictly to the Scriptures. But Jesus showed that they had not known their true meaning. That knowledge must be brought home to the heart by the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. Their ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God He declared to be the cause of their confusion of faith and darkness of mind. They were seeking to bring the mysteries of God within the compass of their finite reasoning. Christ called upon them to open their minds to those sacred truths that would broaden and strengthen the understanding. Thousands become infidels because their finite minds cannot comprehend the mysteries of God. They cannot explain the wonderful exhibition of divine power in His providences, therefore they reject the evidences of such power, attributing them to natural agencies which they can comprehend still less. The only key to the mysteries that surround us is to acknowledge in them all the presence and power of God. Men need to recognize God as the Creator of the universe, One who commands and executes all things. They need a broader view of His character, and of the mystery of His agencies.

DA 606.1

Christ declared to His hearers that if there were no resurrection of the dead, the Scriptures which they professed to believe would be of no avail. He said, “But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” God counts the things that are not as though they were. He sees the end from the beginning, and beholds the result of His work as though it were now accomplished. The precious dead, from Adam down to the last saint who dies, will hear the voice of the Son of God, and will come forth from the grave to immortal life. God will be their God, and they shall be His people. There will be a close and tender relationship between God and the risen saints. This condition, which is anticipated in His purpose, He beholds as if it were already existing. The dead live unto Him.

DA 606.2

By the words of Christ the Sadducees were put to silence. They could not answer Him. Not a word had been spoken of which the least advantage could be taken for His condemnation. His adversaries had gained nothing but the contempt of the people.

DA 606.3

The Pharisees, however, did not yet despair of driving Him to speak that which they could use against Him. They prevailed upon a certain learned scribe to question Jesus as to which of the ten precepts of the law was of the greatest importance.

DA 606.4

The Pharisees had exalted the first four commandments, which point out the duty of man to his Maker, as of far greater consequence than the other six, which define man’s duty to his fellow man. As the result, they greatly failed of practical godliness. Jesus had shown the people their great deficiency, and had taught the necessity of good works, declaring that the tree is known by its fruits. For this reason He had been charged with exalting the last six commandments above the first four.

DA 607.1

The lawyer approached Jesus with a direct question, “Which is the first commandment of all?” The answer of Christ is direct and forcible: “The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.” The second is like the first, said Christ; for it flows out of it, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” “On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

DA 607.2

The first four of the Ten Commandments are summed up in the one great precept, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.” The last six are included in the other, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Both these commandments are an expression of the principle of love. The first cannot be kept and the second broken, nor can the second be kept while the first is broken. When God has His rightful place on the throne of the heart, the right place will be given to our neighbor. We shall love him as ourselves. And only as we love God supremely is it possible to love our neighbor impartially.

DA 607.3

And since all the commandments are summed up in love to God and man, it follows that not one precept can be broken without violating this principle. Thus Christ taught His hearers that the law of God is not so many separate precepts, some of which are of great importance, while others are of small importance and may with impunity be ignored. Our Lord presents the first four and the last six commandments as a divine whole, and teaches that love to God will be shown by obedience to all His commandments.

DA 607.4

The scribe who had questioned Jesus was well read in the law, and he was astonished at His words. He did not expect Him to manifest so deep and thorough a knowledge of the Scriptures. He had gained a broader view of the principles underlying the sacred precepts. Before the assembled priests and rulers he honestly acknowledged that Christ had given the right interpretation to the law, saying:

DA 607.5

“Well, Master, Thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but He: and to love Him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

DA 608.1

The wisdom of Christ’s answer had convicted the scribe. He knew that the Jewish religion consisted in outward ceremonies rather than inward piety. He had some sense of the worthlessness of mere ceremonial offerings, and the faithless shedding of blood for expiation of sin. Love and obedience to God, and unselfish regard for man, appeared to him of more value than all these rites. The readiness of this man to acknowledge the correctness of Christ’s reasoning, and his decided and prompt response before the people, manifested a spirit entirely different from that of the priests and rulers. The heart of Jesus went out in pity to the honest scribe who had dared to face the frowns of the priests and the threats of the rulers to speak the convictions of his heart. “And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

DA 608.2

The scribe was near to the kingdom of God, in that he recognized deeds of righteousness as more acceptable to God than burnt offerings and sacrifices. But he needed to recognize the divine character of Christ, and through faith in Him receive power to do the works of righteousness. The ritual service was of no value, unless connected with Christ by living faith. Even the moral law fails of its purpose, unless it is understood in its relation to the Saviour. Christ had repeatedly shown that His Father’s law contained something deeper than mere authoritative commands. In the law is embodied the same principle that is revealed in the gospel. The law points out man’s duty and shows him his guilt. To Christ he must look for pardon and for power to do what the law enjoins.

DA 608.3

The Pharisees had gathered close about Jesus as He answered the question of the scribe. Now turning He put a question to them: “What think ye of Christ? whose son is He?” This question was designed to test their belief concerning the Messiah,—to show whether they regarded Him simply as a man or as the Son of God. A chorus of voices answered, “The Son of David.” This was the title which prophecy had given to the Messiah. When Jesus revealed His divinity by His mighty miracles, when He healed the sick and raised the dead, the people had inquired among themselves, “Is not this the Son of David?” The Syrophoenician woman, blind Bartimaeus, and many others had cried to Him for help, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Thou Son of David.” Matthew 15:22. While riding into Jerusalem He had been hailed with the joyful shout, “Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord.” Matthew 21:9. And the little children in the temple had that day echoed the glad ascription. But many who called Jesus the Son of David did not recognize His divinity. They did not understand that the Son of David was also the Son of God.

DA 609.1

In reply to the statement that Christ was the Son of David, Jesus said, “How then doth David in Spirit [the Spirit of Inspiration from God] call Him Lord, saying, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit Thou on My right hand, till I make Thine enemies Thy footstool? If David then call Him Lord, how is He his son? And no man was able to answer Him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask Him any more questions.”

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 66—Christ Confounds His Enemies

HLv 402.1

The priests and rulers could not refute Christ’s charges. But they were only the more determined to entrap Him. They sent spies, “who pretended to be sincere, that they might take hold of what He said, so as to deliver Him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor.” RSV. These young men, ardent and zealous, were accompanied by Herodians who were to hear Christ’s words, that they might testify against Him at His trial.

HLv 402.2

The Pharisees had ever chafed under the exaction of tribute by the Romans, holding that it was contrary to the law of God. Now the spies came to Jesus as though desiring to know their duty: “Master, we know that Thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest Thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?”

HLv 402.3

Those who put the question to Jesus thought they had disguised their purpose, but Jesus read their hearts as an open book. “Why tempt ye Me?” He said, showing that He read their hidden purpose. They were still more confused when He added, “Show me a penny.” They brought it, and He asked them, “Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar’s.” Pointing to the coin, Jesus said, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”

HLv 402.4

The spies felt baffled and defeated. The summary manner in which their question had been settled left them nothing further to say. Christ’s reply was no evasion, but a candid answer to the question. Holding in His hand the Roman coin, He declared that since they were living under the protection of the Roman power, they should render to that power the support it claimed. But, while peaceably subject to the laws of the land, they should at all times give their first allegiance to God.

HLv 403.1

Had the Jews faithfully fulfilled their obligations to God, they would not have become subject to a foreign power. No Roman ensign would have waved over Jerusalem, no Roman governor would have ruled within her walls.

HLv 403.2

The Pharisees marveled at Christ’s answer. He had not only rebuked their hypocrisy but had stated a great principle that clearly defines the limits of man’s duty to the civil government and his duty to God. And although many went away dissatisfied, they saw that the principle underlying the question had been clearly set forth, and they marveled at Christ’s farseeing discernment.

HLv 403.3

No sooner were the Pharisees silenced than the Sadducees came forward with artful questions. As a class they were bigoted, yet among them were persons of genuine piety, who accepted Christ’s teachings. The Sadducees professed to believe the greater portion of the Scriptures, but practically they were skeptics and materialists.

HLv 403.4

Between the Pharisees and Sadducees the resurrection was especially a subject of controversy. The Pharisees had been firm believers in the resurrection, but their views in regard to the future state became confused. Death became an inexplicable mystery. The discussions between the two parties usually resulted in angry disputes.

HLv 403.5

The Sadducees had not so strong a hold on the common people, but many had the influence which wealth imparts. From among them the high priest was usually chosen. The fact that they were eligible to such office gave influence to their errors.

HLv 404.1

The Sadducees rejected the teaching of Jesus; His teaching in regard to the future life contradicted their theories. It was their belief that, having created man, God had left him to himself, independent of a higher influence. They held that he was free to control his own life and to shape the events of the world; his destiny was in his own hands.

HLv 404.2

Their ideas of God molded their own character. As in their view He had no interest in man, so they had little regard for one another. Refusing to acknowledge the influence of the Holy Spirit, they lacked His power in their lives. They boasted of their birthright as children of Abraham, but of the faith and benevolence of Abraham they were destitute. Their hearts were not touched by the wants and sufferings of others. They lived for themselves.

HLv 404.3

By His words and works, Christ testified to a divine power that produces supernatural results, to a future life, to God as a Father of the children of men, ever watchful of their true interests. He taught that God moves upon the heart by the Holy Spirit. He showed the error of trusting to human power for that transformation of character which can be wrought only by the Spirit of God.

HLv 404.4

In seeking a controversy with Jesus, the Sadducees felt confident of bringing Him into disrepute, if not condemnation. The resurrection was the subject on which they chose to question Him. Should He agree with them, He would give offense to the Pharisees. Should He differ with them, they designed to hold His teaching up to ridicule. The Sadducees reasoned that if the body is to be composed of the same particles of matter in its immortal as in its mortal state, then it must have flesh and blood and resume in the eternal world the life interrupted on earth. Husband and wife would be reunited, marriages consummated, and all things go on the same as before death.

HLv 405.1

In answer to their questions, Jesus lifted the veil from the future life. “In the resurrection,” He said, “they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.” The Sadducees were wrong. “Ye do err,” He added, “not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” He did not charge them with hypocrisy, but with error of belief.

HLv 405.2

Their ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God He declared to be the cause of their confusion of faith and darkness of mind. Christ called on them to open their minds to those sacred truths that would broaden the understanding. Thousands become infidels because they cannot comprehend the mysteries of God. The only key to the mysteries that surround us is to acknowledge in them the presence and power of God. Men need to recognize God as the Creator of the universe, One who commands and executes all things.

HLv 405.3

Christ declared to His hearers that if there were no resurrection of the dead, the Scriptures which they professed to believe would be of no avail. He said, “But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” God sees the result of His work as though it were now accomplished. The precious dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and come forth from the grave to immortal life. There will be a close and tender relationship between God and the risen saints. This condition He beholds as if it were already existing. The dead live unto Him.

HLv 405.4

The Sadducees were put to silence. Not a word had been spoken of which the least advantage could be taken for His condemnation.

HLv 405.5

The Pharisees, however, did not yet despair. They prevailed on a certain learned scribe to question Jesus as to which of the ten precepts of the law was of the greatest importance. They had exalted the first four commandments, which point out the duty of man to his Maker, as of far greater consequence than the other six, which define man’s duty to his fellowman. Jesus had been charged with exalting the last six commandments above the first four.

HLv 406.1

The lawyer approached Jesus with a direct question, “Which is the first commandment of all?” The answer of Christ was direct: “The first of all the commandments is ... Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength.” The second is like the first, said Christ, for it flows out of it: “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” “On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”

HLv 406.2

Both these commandments are an expression of the principle of love. The first cannot be kept and the second broken, nor can the second be kept while the first is broken. Only as we love God supremely is it possible to love our neighbor impartially.

HLv 406.3

Christ taught His hearers that the law of God is a divine whole, not so many separate precepts, some of great importance, others of small importance. Love to God will be shown by obedience to all His commandments.

HLv 406.4

The scribe who had questioned Jesus was astonished. Before the assembled priests and rulers he honestly acknowledged that Christ had given the right interpretation to the law.

HLv 406.5

The scribe had some sense of the worthlessness of mere ceremonial offerings and the faithless shedding of blood for expiation of sin. Love and obedience to God, and unselfish regard for man, appeared to him of more value than all these rites. His decided and prompt response before the people manifested a spirit entirely different from that of the priests and rulers. The heart of Jesus went out in pity to the honest scribe who had dared to speak the convictions of his heart. “And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, He said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

HLv 407.1

The Pharisees had gathered close about Jesus as He answered the scribe. Now He put a question to them: “What think ye of Christ? whose son is He?” This question was designed to show whether they regarded Him simply as a man or as the Son of God. A chorus of voices answered, “The Son of David.” When Jesus revealed His divinity by His mighty miracles, when He healed the sick and raised the dead, the people had inquired among themselves, “Is not this the Son of David?” But many who called Jesus the Son of David did not recognize His divinity. The Son of David was also the Son of God.

HLv 407.2

In reply, Jesus said, “How then doth David in spirit [the Spirit of Inspiration from God] call Him Lord, saying, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit Thou on My right hand, till I make Thine enemies Thy footstool? If David then call Him Lord, how is He his son? And no man was able to answer Him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask Him any more questions.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 142, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 3

It is a very serious matter that men, by the word of their own mouth, and some in a hardened, sang-froid manner have decided what means shall go to the workers in the field. If a worker has been unfortunate enough to make a mistake or to incur the displeasure of the men sitting in judgment upon these matters, words are spoken in disparagement that do not give the one accused a fair chance to explain himself. Hasty decisions are made, and the discouragement brought to the mind by these things is not small. But as the workers are scattered, and no one goes to their homes to inquire in regard to these matters, the brethren are entirely ignorant as to the result of their decisions. Some few, who have had the courage to protest, have been treated in a discourteous, arbitrary, and overbearing manner. It cannot be said of the men who have acted thus, as the unholy scribe said of Jesus, “Master, we know that Thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest Thou for any man: for Thou regardest not the person of men.” [Matthew 22:16.]

18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 152

It is a very serious matter that men, by the word of their own mouth, and some in a hardened, sang-froid manner have decided what means shall go to the workers in the field. If a worker has been unfortunate enough to make a mistake or to incur the displeasure of the men sitting in judgment upon these matters, words are spoken in disparagement that do not give the one accused a fair chance to explain himself. Hasty decisions are made, and the discouragement brought to the mind by these things is not small. But as the workers are scattered, and no one goes to their homes to inquire in regard to these matters, the brethren are entirely ignorant as to the result of their decisions. Some few, who have had the courage to protest, have been treated in a discourteous, arbitrary, and overbearing manner. It cannot be said of the men who have acted thus, as the unholy scribe said of Jesus, “Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.” [Matthew 22:16.]—Taken from Manuscript on Auditing, written at Avondale, Cooranbong, N.S.W., January 12, 1896.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 33, 1912

25LtMs, Ms 33, 1912, par. 3

It is a very serious matter that men, by the word of their own mouth, and some in a hardened, sang-froid manner, have decided what means shall go to the workers in the field. If a worker has been unfortunate enough to make a mistake or to incur the displeasure of the men sitting in judgment upon these matters, words are spoken in disparagement that do not give the one accused a fair chance to explain himself. Hasty decisions are made, and the discouragement brought to the mind by these things is not small. But as the workers are scattered, and no one goes to their homes to inquire in regard to these matters, the brethren are entirely ignorant as to the result of their decisions. Some few, who have had the courage to protest, have been treated in a discourteous, arbitrary, and overbearing manner. It cannot be said of the men who have acted thus, as the unholy scribe said of Jesus, “Master, we know that Thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest Thou for any man: for Thou regardest not the person of men.” [Matthew 22:16.]

From Eternity Past

Appendix

EP 551.3

Since then, there has been no government anywhere to which God has delegated the authority that He gave to the king of Israel in the days of the theocracy. The Bible teaches a separation of church and state (Matthew 22:17-22), and therefore religious liberty for all. Earthly governments may not force the conscience or usurp the place reserved to God alone in the theocracy of Israel. Not until the second coming of Christ will God again establish His theocracy. Until then, men must not arrogate to themselves authority over the human conscience that God has not entrusted to them.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 20—Before Pilate

SJ 125.3

“Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s.” Matthew 22:21.

Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

Bounties to Encourage Enlistment

2BIO 42.2

We are at present enjoying the protection of our civil and religious rights, by the best government under heaven. With the exception of those enactments pressed upon it by the slave power, its laws are good.... Whatever we may say of our amiable President, his cabinet, or of military officers, it is Christlike to honor every good law of our land. Said Jesus, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21). Those who despise civil law should at once pack up and be off for some spot on God’s footstool where there is no civil law.—Ibid.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 8, 1884

4LtMs, Ms 8, 1884, par. 6

“The discrimination is emphatically brought out by our Lord in the injunction, ‘Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.’ Matthew 22:21. Within the sphere of civil relations, Caesar is supreme; within the sphere of moral and religious duties, God alone is supreme. And so also, it is the duty of children to obey their parents and wives their husbands and servants their masters, each according to his sphere and its just limitation.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 44, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 44, 1893, par. 2

There were some things shown me in reference to the words of Christ, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s,” placing the matter where the church has no right to enforce anything of a religious character upon the world. [Matthew 22:21.] Yet in connection with this were given the words of caution. If such a law were to go into effect the Lord would overrule it for good, that an argument should be placed in the hands of those who keep the Sabbath, in their favor, to stand on the Bible foundation in reference to the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. And the Book which the state and Christian world have forced upon the notice of the people to be read in the schools—shall it not speak, and shall not the words be interpreted just as they read?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 78, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 78, 1897, par. 19

When the Pharisees heard Christ’s answer, “they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.” [Matthew 22:22.] They could not at that time satisfy their wrath, but they were determined to carry out their purposes. They were convinced against their will, but though they marvelled exceedingly at Christ’s wisdom, they would not yield <their pride and accept Christ.> And from that time evidence had no effect on their deep-rooted prejudice. They manifested bitter opposition and intense hatred against Christ. There was no more peace or rest for Him, for the cavilling of the priests was constant, and their plans and schemes to entrap Him were abundant. They set spies on His track, to report His movements. They though this was unknown to Christ, but He was much more accurately acquainted with their movements than were they with His. He know every step that would be taken, and every event that would take place.

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

MR No. 954—Study of Growth of Ellen White’s Theological Understanding

12MR 140.1

Spiritual Darkness Result of Separation From God—The spiritual darkness that covers the earth is the result of a separation from God. Christ is the light and life of the world. “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness” (Psalm 112:4). All sin in darkness. When Christ came to this world, the Jewish rulers refused to accept His words. Wise in their own conceit, they declared that they knew all about the law of God. But Christ said to them, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). Darkness covered the earth and gross darkness the people. The human family, and even the Lord’s chosen people, had to a large extent lost the knowledge of God. The Jewish priests were teaching for doctrine the commandments of men. God was misrepresented. False ideas prevailed in regard to His character and attributes. Christ came to this world, and the light shone forth into the darkness, but the darkness comprehended it not.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 5, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 5, 1889, par. 6

When Christ came into the world He was the origin of truth. The lessons He had given to the prophets had been placed in false settings, and it was His work to place them in the true. He was the foundation and the originator of all truth, and His work was to strip off all traditions of men, for they taught the commandments of men instead of the commandments of God. Those who had been in the school of the prophets, and had been obtaining their education, were considered to know more than all the nations and all other people upon the face of the earth. He turns to them and says, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29. They saw trees as men walking. And why was not the truth distinct in their minds? The reason was, they were not connected with the God of all truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 11, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 11, 1890, par. 9

It was this same spirit in the Jews which called forth the words of Christ, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] They entertained the idea that Christ at His first advent was to break the Roman yoke from off their necks, and that He would then honor Israel by placing them above every other people on the earth. And they produced Scripture to sustain them; but they were deceived. The Old Testament prophecies which relate to the glorious second appearing of Christ, they applied to His first advent, and many, even the wise and educated, were deceived. Their error was fatal.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 12, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 54

Jesus said to His disciples, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” [John 16:12.] Had He told them those things which He left unsaid, they would not have comprehended them for they were surrounded with human prejudices, jealousy, and tradition. They could not have had wisdom to communicate His instruction to others, after the Master’s presence should be withdrawn, so that the same impressions would be made on other minds that had been made on theirs. The disciples would have to meet the bitterest opposition from Pharisees, priests, and rulers, and angry controversies would be the sure result. Christ said to the scribes and Pharisees, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 20, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 20, 1892, par. 30

The spiritual darkness that covers the earth is the result of a separation from God. Christ is the light and life of the world. “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness.” [Psalm 112:4.] All sin is darkness. When Christ came to this world, the Jewish rulers refused to accept His words. Wise in their own conceit, they declared that they knew all about the law of God. But Christ said to them, “Ye do err not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] Darkness covered the earth and gross darkness the people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 24, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 24, 1891, par. 67

When, in the fullness of time, Christ came to our world, it was darkened and marred by the curse of apostasy and spiritual wickedness. The Jews had wrapped themselves about with the dark mantle of unbelief. They kept not the commandments of God, but regarded as of more importance their own traditions. “In vain do they worship Me,” the Saviour declared, “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. ... Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” [Mark 7:7-9.] And at another time He said, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 62, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 62, 1893, par. 8

In the Old and New Testament Scriptures, imparted by Christ to the inspired patriarchs and prophets and in His lessons to His disciples, there yet remain to be discovered new aspects of certain truths, the far-reaching compass of others, and the harmonious, golden linking together of the whole. This is not discerned by higher critics, whose uninspired human minds, however educated, or whatever their position in the literary world, will never grasp the immeasurable compass of God’s Word. Because of their ignorance, will they dare to pronounce it uninspired? Human wisdom cannot comprehend God, and therefore they are, as Jesus said of the Jews, both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God. [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 11b, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 11b, 1894, par. 14

When Christ came to the earth He found the truth hidden by error. He had to rescue truth from the error that surrounded it and present [it] to men in such a way as to show the loveliness of its character. Error may be hoary with age, but this does not make it truth. The Jews held their customs received through traditions of the fathers, from age to age and generation to generation. Christ said to them, “Ye are blind.” “Ye are ignorant both of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 23:17; 22:29.] They were teaching for truth the traditions of men. Christ came, He said, to give “recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that were bruised.” [Luke 4:18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 12, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 12, 1894, par. 9

Who dares to say Christ is a Sabbath-breaker? He made the Sabbath Himself. He is the one that spoke the law from Sinai. He is the one who was enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, and therefore He said, “Ye are ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] Why? Because they covered it all up with their maxims and traditions, which had been handed down from rabbi to rabbi, and repeated and enlarged till the specifications of the law of God were buried in a mass of rubbish, and till the people were not certain that they were keeping the law or not, for the law is the transcript of the Father’s character.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 11, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 11, 1894, par. 14

The Jews held their customs received from tradition and repeated from age to age and from generation to generation, and they kept accumulating until He says to them, “Ye are blind.” “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 23:17; 22:29.] What was the matter? Why they had taught tradition for the commandments of God. That is not the way to do. What did Christ come to present? He says, “The recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] Now you can see that that is in perfect harmony with what we have been reading. “When thou seest the naked that thou cover him.” [Isaiah 58:7.] What are you doing if you have the glorious light of truth? What are you doing if God has chosen you to be a peculiar people, a royal people, a holy people? You are to show forth the power of Him who hath called you out of darkness, out of blindness, into His marvelous light. Well, if God lets His light shine upon you, do not let your mouth be stopped. Do not let anybody put a falsehood in your mouth because of tradition. Speaking the truth as it is in Christ Jesus.

This Day With God

Let No Man Deceive You, June 4

TDG 164.2

Prior to and at the first advent of Christ, religious teachers set forth strange ideas that were so mingled with portions of truth that they were full of deceptive power, and led souls away from God, although they still preserved the appearance of being His true worshipers. We find a similar condition of society in these last days, and those who depart from the faith, mingle with their belief diversities of human opinion. The Bible is brought into criticism. Is it because the Scriptures are inconsistent and contradictory that ministers differ so widely in their interpretation?—No, the trouble is that men are doing today as they did in the time of Christ, and are teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Religious teachers are in the same condition as were the Pharisees of whom He said, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God” (see Matthew 22:29). The very men to whom these words were spoken were presumed to teach and interpret the Scriptures to the people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 22, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 22, 1895, par. 20

The judgment of men, even of teachers, may be very wide of the mark as to what constitutes true education. The teachers in the days of Christ did not educate the youth in the correct knowledge of the Scriptures, which lies at the foundation of all education worthy of the name. Christ declared to the Pharisees, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God,” “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 22:29; 15:9.] And He prayed for His disciples, “Sanctify them through Thy truth, Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17-19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 41b, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, par. 25

We are nearing the end of time, and it is most essential that we walk humbly with God. We cannot fit up the building with carpets or enter into any preparation that requires an outlay of means, for we have none. I have been constantly handing out means, investing thousands of dollars to keep the work moving; but I know that we must heed the instruction given us in Melbourne to study economy in every line. Christ said of the scribes and Pharisees: “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] These both let us learn in the school of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 34, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 34, 1896, par. 5

All who engage in this work as co-laborers with Christ must not only be willing to preach the truth, but to practice it. Of the professedly learned and pious people of His day, Christ said, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God. Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 22:29; 15:9.] He longed to fill the whole nation with the spirit of His mission of love, that they might unite with Him in the work of saving the world. The Holy Spirit would now come to our workers if they would earnestly seek for it. There will be no change made in the divine economy in order to bring around marked changes in the religious world. Men and women must arise to the emergency; they must receive the golden oil, the divine communication in rich blessings. This will enable them to arise and shine, because their light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 60, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 60, 1896, par. 10

Christ said of the scribes and Pharisees: “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] These both let us learn in the school of Christ. We must make the Scriptures our Counsellor, and be doers of the Word if we would have a knowledge of the power of God. Our desires will have to be bound about. We are of necessity obliged to plan and devise and economize. We cannot manage as if we had a bank on which to draw in case of emergency. Therefore we must not get into straitened places.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 122, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 122, 1896, par. 5

The priests and Pharisees thought that they were doing great things as teachers, by putting their own interpretations upon the Word of God, but Christ said of them, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures, and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] He charged them with the guilt of teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Though they were the teachers of the oracles of God, though they were supposed to understand the Word of God, they were not doers of this Word. Satan had blinded their eyes that they should not see the true import of it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 61, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 61, 1897, par. 11

Notwithstanding all that has been written in regard to God’s plan for the education in our schools, this subject has not been fully taken in. It is today as it was in the day of Christ. The sayings of the priests and rabbis were then frequently brought forward as if they were truth and life. Their words were repeated with assurance because they had been handed down from rabbi to rabbi. Men departed from the Word of God. False theories which were received as truth because they came from the lips of rabbis, were exalted above the Word of God. Christ said to these teachers, “Ye are ignorant both of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 163, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 30

The men who have the oracles of God, not only break the law themselves, but teach those who would investigate and obey the light to do the same. The men who claim to be teachers deceive the people as did the leaders in Israel in Christ’s day. He, the great Teacher, was in the world; He was the light of the world; but Satan interposed his hellish shadow between Him and the souls whom Christ came to save. When accused by the Pharisees, He said, “Ye make void the law of God by your tradition.” “Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:6, 9.] Again He said to those so-called teachers, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 149, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 149, 1897, par. 3

Christ rebuked these false teachers. “In vain do ye worship me,” He said, “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” [Mark 7:7.] “Thus have ye made the commandments of God of none effect by your tradition.” [Matthew 15:6.] This is the work of many of the teachers of this time. They make void the law of God, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men. Christ said to the teachers in His day, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scripture and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] His words embrace all who claim to be religious, but who make void the law of God by their traditions.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 89, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 15

All heaven saw that cheap, worthless, trivial ceremonies and traditions were becoming mingled with the pure and holy principles of the law of God. Transgression of the law of God by the Jewish nation was becoming widespread and deep. They were making the law of God meaningless by making the sayings of men of greater consequence than the sayings of God. Christ came to our world in human form that humanity might touch humanity, and humanity lay hold upon divinity. He came to exalt that which had been made of none effect by the maxims and traditions of men. The spirituality of the law was being lost, and He firmly met the priests and Pharisees with the rebuke, Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men. Ye make void the law of God through your traditions. No great insult could they give him than they were thus offering to God, and He said to these leaders, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 142, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 142, 1898, par. 1

The Lord Jesus likened His disciples to the things most familiar to them. He compared them to the salt and the light. “Ye are the salt of the earth,” He said. “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:13, 14.] These words were addressed to a few poor, humble fishermen. Priests and rabbis were in that congregation of hearers, but these were not the ones addressed. With all their science of learning, with all their supposed instruction in the mysteries of the law, with all their claims of knowing God, they revealed that they knew Him not. To these leading men had been committed the oracles of God, but Christ turned from them to the humble fishermen and said, “Ye are the light of the world.” These great men whom the world called wise Christ declared to be unsafe teachers. He said to them, “Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” And again, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God.” [Matthew 15:9; 22:29.]

To Be Like Jesus

Hear Christ’s Voice Through the Word, April 17

BLJ 117.1

Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29, NKJV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 34, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 34, 1898, par. 10

Men put a forced, mystical construction upon portions of the oracles of God, because these truths condemned their own course of action. This called forth words of reproof from the lips of Christ. To the teachers of the people, the priests and rulers, He said, Ye make void the law of God by your traditions, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Again He rebuked them, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] Thus it is in 1898. The Word of God is put to the torture to advance apostasy to His law. The teachers of this time are, many of them, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. They seek to turn the people from the law of God to observe and exalt tradition, and to drown the voice of God by the commandments of men.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 75, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 75, 1898, par. 3

“And recovering of sight to the blind.” [Verse 18.] The Jewish nation were spiritually blind. By their wicked works they had separated themselves from God. They were great sticklers for the law, but they were continually transgressing the law, and teaching maxims, traditions, and doctrines of men for the commandments of God, thus misleading the people. [As] the religionists of that day, they claimed the oracles of God as their authority. Christ exposed their blindness, declaring to them, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] They kept neither of the great principles of the law: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy strength; and thy neighbor as thyself.” Upon these two great principles hang all the law and the prophets. “This do,” said Christ, “and ye shall live.” Deuteronomy 6:4, 5; Luke 10:26-28.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 82, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 82, 1899, par. 4

“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few.” [Luke 10:2.] When Christ made this statement there were scribes and Pharisees, priests and rulers, in every city and town in the land. The Saviour saw that these religious teachers were wholly unfitted to minister to the spiritual needs of the people. “Ye know not the Scriptures, nor the power of God,” He said to them. “Ye do teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 22:29; 15:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 161, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 161, 1899, par. 5

We find none so blind as those who stand in positions of responsibility in the churches. Like the rulers in Christ’s day, those who are blessed with every spiritual advantage, and who claim to be teachers of the people, are the least able to interpret the Scriptures correctly. They know not what is truth for this time. To the Jewish leaders, who were exciting the prejudices of the people against Him, Christ said, “Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and the power of God.” [Matthew 15:9; 22:29.] His words apply to the religious teachers of today who refuse to sit down with the servants of God and study the messages He sends. O if these ministers would only take the stand of the noble Bereans, and search the Scriptures, to see if these things are so! They would be safe in coming to the Word of God. If they would lay aside their prejudice, and unite in prayer and searching of the Word, the Holy Spirit would give them understanding.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 134, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 134, 1899, par. 2

Christ declared to the teachers in Israel, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” “Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 22:29; 15:9.] The guilt of these rulers was not in the sight of Christ like the guilt of the ordinary sinner. These men stood under the most solemn obligations to God. They had pledged themselves to teach a “Thus saith the Lord,” and to bring strict obedience into their practical lives. But instead of doing this, they were perverting the Scriptures. Their religion consisted in a round of ceremonies, and the object of their worship was lost sight of. They did not do the work connected with their sacred office as if they were handling the property given them in trust by God. Their selfishness and covetousness and greed caused them to be despised by all the nations.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 7a, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 7a, 1900, par. 4

Christ said to them, “Ye know not the scriptures nor the power of God.” “Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 22:29; 15:9.] Because of this, the truths Christ uttered fell upon the world with the strangeness of a new revelation. True, the disciples had the teachings of Christ in the Old Testament Scriptures, but these had been so misinterpreted, by those to whom they had been educated to look to for instruction, that they were ignorant of the real meaning of the Word. They could not take in the truths which fell from the lips of the heaven-sent Teacher.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 10, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 10, 1900, par. 16

Ever remember that there are those who teach for doctrine the commandments of men. They make void the law of God by their traditions, like the Pharisees whom Christ exposed, saying, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] The precious gems of truth are buried beneath a mass of error. By the sophistry of religious teachers the meaning of the plain, clear Word of God is hidden. The people are left in perplexity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 60, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 60, 1900, par. 7

The prevalence of sin is alarming; the world is being filled with violence as in the days of Noah. Would the world be in its present condition if those who claim to be the people of God had reverenced and obeyed the law of the Lord? It is the rejection of the truth, man’s dispensing with the commandments of God, that has produced the condition of things which now exists. God’s Word is made of none effect by false shepherds. The decided opposition of the shepherds of the flock to the law of the Lord reveals that they have rejected the Word of the Lord and have put their own words in its place. In their interpretation of the Scriptures they teach for doctrines the commandments of men. In their apostasy from the truth they have encouraged wickedness, saying, “We are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us.” [Verse 8.] The words of Christ to the Pharisees are applicable to them. Christ said to these teachers, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 21, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 21, 1903, par. 1

I wish to speak to you as God’s messenger. Some things have been presented to me in regard to your relation to the laborers already in the field when you reached there. Matters have been presented to me in figures and symbols, and I must say to you, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] You are in danger of looking upon yourselves as superior to those who were in the field when you reached there. Do not yield to this inclination. I thank the Lord that He raised up these faithful men to labor with us. True, their work has in some respects been imperfect, but so also has yours. They have been ready to receive counsel and have ever tried to harmonize with their fellow workers. We highly appreciate these laborers. We have been with them in hard places. Together we have lifted the responsibilities that must be borne in a new field. And when after the last General Conference you were sent to Australia, we were glad to think that these workers were to have so much help. You did not go to labor for those who already knew the truth, but to unite with the workers in aggressive warfare in proclaiming the truth in new places.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 28, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 28, 1904, par. 6

“Ye do err,” He said, “not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” “For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven. And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living; ye do therefore greatly err.” [Matthew 22:29; Mark 12:25-27.]

Ye Shall Receive Power

Rejoicing in the Word, April 17

YRP 116.3

Some who profess to have true religion sadly neglect the Guidebook given by God to point the way to heaven. They may read the Bible, but merely reading God’s Word, as one would read words traced by a human pen, will give only a superficial knowledge. Talking of the truth will not sanctify the receivers. They may profess to be working for God, when, were Christ among them, His voice would be heard, saying, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God” (Matthew 22:29). Such cannot know what true religion means.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Christ and the Law (Sermon given at Rome, New York, June 19, 1889)

1SAT 106.2

When Christ came into the world, He was the origin of truth. The lessons He had given to the prophets had been placed in false settings, and it was His work to place them in the true. He was the foundation and the originator of all truth, and His work was to strip off all traditions of men, for they taught the commandments of men instead of the commandments of God. Those who had been in the school of the prophets, and had been obtaining their education, were considered to know more than all the nations and all other people upon the face of the earth. He turns to them and says, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God” [Matthew 22:29]. They saw trees as men walking. And why was not the truth distinct in their minds? The reason was, they were not connected with the God of all truth.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Christ and the Law

1888 338.2

When Christ came into the world, He was the origin of truth. The lessons He had given to the prophets had been placed in false settings, and it was His work to place them in the true. He was the foundation and the originator of all truth, and His work was to strip off all traditions of men, for they taught the commandments of men instead of the commandments of God. Those who had been in the school of the prophets, and had been obtaining their education, were considered to know more than all the nations and all other people upon the face of the earth. He turns to them and says, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God” [Matthew 22:29]. They saw trees as men walking. And why was not the truth distinct in their minds? The reason was, they were not connected with the God of all truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 62, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 62, 1886, par. 76

Now if the people had not been afraid of these priests and rulers, and if they had not placed such entire confidence in them because they were educated men, then they would have commenced to think and study and search the Scriptures for themselves. They allowed the priests and rulers to be conscience for them, and Christ called these teachers false teachers, blind guides. They interpreted the Scriptures to suit their ideas. They wrested the Scriptures, and Christ once said to these professedly pious men, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] He said on another occasion, “Ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cumin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” [Matthew 23:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 55, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 16

Christ said of these teachers, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29. They had blocked out their own way of being saved in the place of taking God’s way. They had forsaken the path of self-denial, had mingled the commandments of men with the commandments of God, and presented and urged all upon the people as if direct from God. The commandments of God were not kept by them and carried into the practical life, and the purity which distinguished the life and character of Christ was dropped out of their religion. Evil, wherever it exists, is in rejecting light and truth and departing from the living God; and then there is enmity always against those who cherish the light and walk in its rays.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 2, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 2, 1888, par. 23

The Lord had food whereby His servants might <become enlarged> and grow to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. What is the chaff to the full kernels of wheat? How great was my burden in that tent, in my feebleness that night! I know that the Lord was graciously willing to forgive sins and pardon the sinner, and my heart was stirred with an intensity of desire that all upon the campground should see the salvation of the Lord. To this people God had committed sacred trusts. He had made them repositories of light in regard to His law, and should Christ say of these highly favored, “Ye are both ignorant of the Scriptures and of the power of God”? [Matthew 22:29.] Should those who made so high a profession, because of their want of pure and undefiled religion dishonor the world’s Redeemer by their unconsecrated lives? “Ye are my witnesses,” saith the Lord. [Isaiah 43:10.] Should the people of God remain in a backslidden state, unconsecrated, unholy in life and in character? How then could Christ say of them, “Ye are the light of the world” and represent them as a city that is set upon a hill or a light upon a candlestick, giving light to all that are in the house? [Matthew 5:14, 15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 48, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 48, 1893, par. 9

Christ came as the Expositor of the prophecies that He Himself had given to His people by holy men of old. He separated the precepts of Jehovah from the maxims and traditions of men. He held up the Ten Commandments as an expression of truth in all its purity. Of the leaders and the teachers of the people He declared: “In vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” [Mark 7:7.] And to them He said: “Ye have made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.” “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” [Matthew 15:6; 22:29.]

8LtMs, Ms 48, 1893, par. 14

“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [Matthew 22:37-40.]

Last Day Events

Chapter 20—The Inheritance of the Saints

LDE 290.3

Jesus lifted the veil from the future life. “In the resurrection,” He said, “they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven” [Matthew 22:30].—The Desire of Ages, 605 (1898).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 59, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, par. 8

We have the plain assurance of Christ that in the world to come, the redeemed “neither marry, nor are given in marriage.” [Matthew 22:30.] To those who hold such views I bear the message: You need to be taught the first principles of the truth. You need to stand where you know that you are not departing from the faith and giving heed to seducing spirits. Break the spell that is upon you, and become teachable. Leave every false issue alone. We cannot do our seed sowing too carefully; for we are sowing for eternity.

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

“If Thou Wilt Enter Into Life”

3MR 67.2

Matthew 22:34-40. Here we have another case to the point. The lawyer asked Christ, “Which is the great commandment?” The answer was, that he should love God with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. “On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Now it is impossible for us to love God with all our heart while breaking the fourth commandment, for this precept stands in the center of the decalogue. We should be as a family of obedient children, having the fear of God before us—not slavish fear, but filial fear. There is promised a reward for the obedient and also punishment to the disobedient. Should we decree that God’s law is not worthy to be kept, are we not enemies of the Lord? Would He not regard us as such? We are God’s children. He has placed sacred things in our trust, and if we say we love Him and do not obey, then we have not the love of God perfected in us. But should we have our duty pointed out to us, then we should walk in the light as obedient children. Probation is given us to test us. God will not compel us to be obedient but we must see our duty, and then as dutiful children walk in harmony with His requirements.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 39, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 39, 1886, par. 4

Matthew 22:34-40. Here we have another case to the point. The lawyer asked Christ, “Which is the great commandment?” The answer was that he should love God with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. “On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Now it is impossible for us to love God with all our heart while breaking the fourth commandment, for this precept stands in the center of the decalogue, and in obedience fits us for eternal life. We should be as a family of obedient children, having the fear of God before us—not slavish fear, but filial fear. There is promised a reward for the obedient, and also punishment to the disobedient. Should we decree that God’s law is not worthy to be kept, are we not enemies of the Lord? Would He not regard us as such? We are God’s children. He has placed sacred things in our trust, and if we say we love Him and do not obey, then we have not the love of God perfected in us. But should we have our duty pointed out to us, then we should walk in the light as obedient children. Probation is given us to test us. God will not compel us to be obedient, but we must see our duty, and then as dutiful children walk in harmony with His requirements.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 79, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, par. 11

When asked by the lawyer, “Which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus answered, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [Matthew 22:35-40.] Christ urged home upon his hearer that it was not enough for him to believe, but that he must be a doer of the law. In the claims of these two great principles, is the binding force of the whole law and of all the moral precepts found in the prophets. If these two commandments are brought into the gospel, all that hangs upon them is also brought into the gospel. “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.” [Romans 3:31.]

This Day With God

The Great Commandment, October 5

TDG 287.1

Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Matthew 22:36.

From Splendor to Shadow

Great Peril for the Chosen Nation

SS 172.2

From age to age these counsels were repeated to those who were falling into habits of formalism and of forgetting to show mercy. When Christ Himself was approached by a lawyer with the question, “Which is the great commandment in the law?” He said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Matthew 22:36-39.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 27—Ahaz

PK 326.2

In urging the value of practical godliness, the prophet was only repeating the counsel given Israel centuries before. Through Moses, as they were about to enter the Promised Land, the word of the Lord had been: “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord, and His statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?” Deuteronomy 10:12, 13. From age to age these counsels were repeated by the servants of Jehovah to those who were in danger of falling into habits of formalism and of forgetting to show mercy. When Christ Himself, during His earthly ministry, was approached by a lawyer with the question, “Master, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:36-40.

The Review and Herald

April 1, 1915

RH April 1, 1915, par. 16

From age to age these counsels were repeated by the servants of Jehovah to those who were in danger of falling into habits of formalism, and of forgetting to show mercy. When Christ himself, during his earthly ministry, was approached by a lawyer with the question, “Master, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:36-40.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 128a, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 128a, 1903, par. 20

In answer to the lawyer’s question, “Master, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said unto him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [Matthew 22:36-40.]

God’s Amazing Grace

For the Whole Man, August 25

AG 245.2

The sanctification set forth in the Scriptures embraces the entire being—spirit, soul, and body.... Christians are bidden to present their bodies, “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God” (Romans 12:1). In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible condition. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator.... Said Christ: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart” (Matthew 22:37). Those who do love God with all the heart will desire to give Him the best service of their life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will. They will not, by the indulgence of appetite or passion, enfeeble or defile the offering which they present to their heavenly Father.73The Great Controversy, 473, 474.

Homeward Bound

Heaven Begins in the Soul, December 30

HB 395.1

You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.—Matthew 22:37.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 14, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 14, 1868, par. 2

Spoke in the afternoon: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,” etc. [Matthew 22:37.] The house was full. There was no ventilation. The stove smoked. I had strength amid it all to speak for one hour and a half. The best attention was given. We were afterwards told I spoke from the same text the minister spoke from in the morning, but handled it very differently. My husband spoke about ten minutes.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 13, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 13, 1868, par. 22

I spoke in the afternoon to a full house upon these words: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,” etc. [Matthew 22:37.] I had freedom in speaking. I never saw more respectful attention. All seemed to listen as for their lives. My husband spoke a short time. I again spoke and we both entreated souls who were in an unsaved state to turn to the Lord, then to give themselves to God and lay the wealth of their affections, their talents, and all they possessed at the feet of Jesus. We invited those who wished to commence from that day to serve God, to come forward. Youth and children came forward, numbering twenty-one. We then prayed earnestly for them and closed the meeting.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 6, 1868

1LtMs, Lt 6, 1868, par. 7

Your father wished me to speak in the forenoon. As I laid off my cloak, Brother Miller came and said I was invited to speak in the afternoon in the Methodist meetinghouse, which had been dedicated a few days [before]. Your father spoke with great clearness upon the law and gospel. There was the very best attention. I have never heard anyone handle the subject as your father, in such a clear, convincing manner. After this discourse, we took a few mouthfuls and entered the Methodist meetinghouse, [which was] crowded full. Twenty stood, because there were no seats. I spoke from these words, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy mind and with all thy soul, etc.” [Matthew 22:37.] I brought in the life, trial, crucifixion, death, resurrection, ascension and second coming of Christ. The Methodist minister and his people were all present. I had freedom in speaking, although there were no arrangements made to lower the windows and the house was very much heated and the stove smoked. I spoke about one hour and half. The people gave the very best possible attention. After I sat down, your father spoke a few minutes and closed the meeting. I was surprised to learn that the Methodist minister spoke from this text in the forenoon. The people wondered how I came to speak upon the very text. One of the wealthiest and most influential men in town inquired who had informed Mrs. White that the minister received ideas that he had never thought of before and thought he would learn something. Your father’s discourse was the subject of conversation everywhere. The general impression was, no one could get away from the conclusion that the Sabbath was binding.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 50, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 50, 1886, par. 9

The first great commandment is, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” Matthew 22:37. Here is allowed no separation of the affections from God. In (1 John 2:15-17) we read, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” Now if the pictures made have a tendency to separate the affections from God, and are worshiped in the place of God, they are idols. Have those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ exalted these things above God and given their affections to them? Has their love for treasures filled a place in their hearts that Jesus should occupy?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 12, 1883

4LtMs, Ms 12, 1883, par. 7

I wrote 20 pages on Vol. 4. Sunday evening spoke in College chapel to a crowded house. They listened as if spellbound. My text was, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God, & c.” [Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37.] I had great liberty in addressing the people. Wrote 12 pages for Vol. 4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 126, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 126, 1905, par. 14

“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.” [Matthew 22:37.] God created the heart pure, sinless, and undefiled; but Adam listened to the seducing words of the tempter and did that which the Lord had told him not to do. The enemy’s words were received by our first parents, and they fell from their high estate of innocence and purity. If Christ’s instruction were carried out, there would be an entirely different showing in our work. The practice would be changed, because the heart would be converted. Satan would be dismissed, and the virtues of Christ’s character would be accepted.