EGW WritingsMatthew 25
Ellen G. White · Page 3 of 6
Read Matthew 25 in the BibleMatthew 25:21-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 84, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 84, 1897, par. 14
“The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] But the Word must first enter the heart; then it will work outward. The question is often asked by really anxious souls, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] The only answer is, Never make it necessary for some one to be constantly looking upon you in order to ensure faithful work. When you realize that the eye of God is constantly upon you, for your good, you will say in everything I will do my best, that the Lord may write concerning me, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] This is true in temporal matters. Into every action of life we are to weave faithfulness and loyalty, cultivating the attributes that will enable us to do this work. He who thus works from principle will find his reward, for those who can correctly estimate faithful service will say, Come up higher. I want you to take charge in a place of greater responsibility.12LtMs, Ms 84, 1897, par. 19
Negligent, slothful work is not so great an offense against men as against God. By doing it, you are forming your character for unfaithfulness. The only right way to do is to do all to the glory of God. Take no human being as your criterion. Let no human voice lay down the limit of your duty. One human being may have a lawful authority over another, and may rightly inspect his work. But every worker is to look beyond the human to the divine, to Him who rules in the heavens, whose eyes behold all the works of our hands. The Lord has called us to be His servants in all things, and no unfaithful work will bear the signature of “well done.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 153, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 19
This is keeping the law, and we want that every soul of you that is here today shall all have an entrance into the kingdom of heaven. We want you to have a crown placed upon your brow. We want you to have the welcome, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] We want that every one shall take the golden harp and sing, “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb, that died that we might live.” He lives a triumphant conqueror, and there their voices echo and re-echo to the praise and to the glory of God.19LtMs, Ms 153, 1904, par. 49
Let us strengthen one another. If you feel that someone has hurt your feelings, do not go with a sour face. Go right to him and if there is anything you have done, take it out of the way. Do not let it spoil your Christian experience. We want a character that Christ can commend. We want Him to say, “Well done,” to us. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 53, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 53, 1912, par. 19
I shall not speak very long this morning, but I want you to carry away with you the few thoughts that I shall suggest. Let it be deeply impressed on your heart that when you speak angry words to your children, you are helping the cause of the enemy of all righteousness. Let every child have a fair chance from babyhood up. The work of teaching should begin in childhood, not accompanied by harshness and fretting, but in kindness and patience; and this instruction should be continued through all their years to manhood and womanhood. It is the blessed privilege of every Christian parent to reveal the Lord to the child as merciful and good and full of kindness. He will put His Holy Spirit on the children, even though they sometimes make mistakes and do wrong. These children may hear the “Well done” [Matthew 25:21, 23] as verily as the older members of the Lord’s family.25LtMs, Ms 53, 1912, par. 31
When the time of final award shall come, you will want to hear from the lips of the Saviour the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] May God help you to be converted daily. Fathers and mothers, sisters and brothers, old and young, work in harmony with Christ, so that the Spirit of God and holy angels can dwell with you and mold your lives. And if these influences are fashioning the lives of parents, the characters of the children will be renewed after the likeness of Christ. If parents do their work faithfully, the children will not be left to go to ruin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 36, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 36, 1877, par. 6
We valued this gift of God to you as a precious jewel, a talent entrusted to you by Him, who is the giver of all mercies and all wisdom and all intelligence. He will hold you responsible for the same. Your accountability will be proportionate to the capital entrusted; and while [you] yourself acknowledge this ability as natural gifts which you possess in no ordinary degree, will you trifle with moral responsibilities? God has not dispensed His sacred trusts capriciously. He has distributed His gifts, His talents, according to the known powers and capacities of His servants. Your ability has been appreciated by those who know them, but they have been employed mostly where their effect would not be enduring, memorialized for eternity. We wished in connecting you with us to have you see and sense the fact that all which you possess God claims, and He will require His own with usury. Jesus has paid the wages of His own blood to secure your willing obedience and cheerful service. We have desired so much that your work upon the earth should bear the test of God and meet His plaudit, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] If you shut from us this last hope, if you coolly tell us all the interest you have had and manifested is from a business standpoint, that you have no personal interest even now after you have had light and evidence and knowledge of the truth, I have no heart to maintain our connection; for I have no hope of any change in you. You will have your ability to use for time, but I greatly fear not for eternity.3LtMs, Lt 36, 1877, par. 8
The day of reckoning is coming when all the talents will be investigated. We read in the account of the talents when brought to the master, no credit is taken to themselves for their diligent trading: They give their lord all the glory. Thou deliverest to me such talents. And then they tell whence their profits came in trading. No gain could have been acquired without the deposit, no interest without the principal. I have gained beside them by their help, such and such increase, acknowledging the capital advanced by him; and if they have traded successfully, he shall have all the glory. Without the Master’s advanced capital, we should have been bankrupt for eternity; but when the Master speaks His approval of the talents well employed, He rewards the faithful worker as though the merits were his own. He speaks His unqualified approval, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” Matthew 25:21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 7, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 7, 1887, par. 3
I have some things to say to you upon this matter. I have been shown that the Lord had an experience for you both to obtain, and that this experience in bearing responsibilities would be more readily gained by Sister Maxson than by her husband. Brother Maxson takes things too easy. He does not take the burden upon his soul. Does not study his patients and feel their needs and their wants as is necessary, and as he should. He is too superficial. He needs to carry the weight of the cases of the patients. He needs to study more deeply and to look to God for wisdom to aid him in making such a physician as God can pronounce his work, “Well done.” [Matthew 25:21.] He lacks thoroughness and efficiency in his work, because he does not love close, taxing effort. Dr. Maxson is not now what he might be in the medical profession, with the opportunities and advantages he has already had. He has framed an excuse for this, because Dr. Kellogg has not advanced him. But he should not make this an excuse. If he were thoroughly intent to make a first-class practitioner, he could have made progress; but he has been willing to meet a low standard, he not considering that the fault was in himself, but charged to circumstances. But the reasons lie mainly in himself. If he had put to the highest stretch his powers to be a first-class physician, he would have been recognized as such, in spite of every untoward circumstance that has hindered him. He has desired to grasp the higher rounds of the ladder, to do the most responsible work, when he has not qualified himself by study, by close, hard climbing, to gain this experience. He has not had real love for the taxations that are attendant upon a physician’s life. He will never be able to stand equal to Dr. Kellogg, as a practitioner, and there are very few men in our world who can do the nice, critical work that Dr. Kellogg does, with equal success.5LtMs, Lt 7, 1887, par. 16
Make alliance with God, and with those who are connected with Him. Let the Word of God be the man of your counsel; for it is the expression of the divine will, with a full recognition of your duty. Learn from the Word of God; for in that you find a source of mental power and help to intellectual attainments. I am pained to see so many who claim to believe the truth reach a low standard. They are not strong men. They cannot plan and execute, because they love ease and enjoyment and do not put to the stretch their mental capabilities and gradually lose their vitality and earnestness, which are essential for the success of the great work. I write you in candor, and with faithfulness, because I have a love for your souls. I want you to win the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” from the lips of your Redeemer. [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 35, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 36
Then, if there have been any that have been robbing God here, you may say, I don’t see it in the Bible. Yes, you do. You are lying to God; you see it. Your cases have been presented, specified in Malachi. You see it and you cannot help it, because if you have reasoning powers you can see it. But you do not want to see, and you encourage blindness of mind lest your selfishness should die, and Christ should come in and take possession of you. I am thinking of the judgment. I do not want to stand in debt to God, robbing God of the tithe and the offerings, and have Him say to me, as my name is called, Ye are cursed with a curse. I do not want to hear that from the Master. I want to hear Him say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.]7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 61
I want heaven; do you want it? We shall all see just how much we want it. We shall see just how much faith we have. For the Lord is coming, and He is right at the door. We have but a little time to work, and if we let the world come in here and absorb all our attention and all our means, how can it be said of you in the judgment, “Enter ye in. Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:23.] Where is your goodness and faithfulness? Was it on your farm? Was it in working with your hands? You can be faithful there, but you have something else to do.7LtMs, Ms 35, 1891, par. 65
God grant that we may live in the light of His countenance, and at last hear Him say, “Come up higher; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] What is that joy? Seeing sinners converted. That is joy. Let us go to work and see if you cannot help some poor, despondent soul that is crushed under the weight of discouragement. See if you cannot win some soul to Christ. You are bigger in your own eyes than you ought to be, but just see if you cannot win somebody to Christ; and as you win them to Christ, you will become smaller and smaller in your own eyes, until you feel as though you were nothing. When you feel in that way, then Christ to you is everything.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 98, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 98, 1893, par. 28
How are the world to know God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent? through His Word and through His human agents. We are to be His representatives. Through us the world will form their opinion of God and of the religion of Christ. Therefore Jesus said, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.” [John 15:8.] “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] When men see, they glorify God. Great dishonor is brought upon the cause of God because those who profess Christ do not possess His Holy Spirit, but walk in their own ways. What a terrible misrepresentation of God, His ways, His character, are the selfishness of life and hardness of heart of His professed followers. A profession of piety is not enough; if religion is not brought into practical service, and does not produce good works, it is valueless. If we do not live to bless others, we are unfaithful stewards, and we shall never receive the heavenly benediction, “Well done.” [Matthew 25:21.] But God will have a peculiar people, of whom it is written that Christ is not ashamed to call them brethren. They bear His likeness. They are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.8LtMs, Ms 98, 1893, par. 31
Through the grace of Christ our efforts to bless others are not only the means of our growth in grace, but they will enhance our future, eternal happiness. To those who have been coworkers with Christ it will be said, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.] Although we have no merit in ourselves, yet in the great goodness and love of God we are rewarded as if the merit were our own.Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Hearing and Doing Sermon at Santa Rosa, California Sabbath, March 7, 1885 Text: Matthew 7:22-28
1SAT 23.3
Let there be that littleness, that humbleness of soul, that they may know that you have been taught in the school of Christ. And when He shall appear in the clouds of heaven, we shall exclaim, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us” (Isaiah 25:9). Then it is that the crown of life will be placed upon the brow of the faithful ones. Then will come the voice of the Saviour saying, “Well done thou good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21-23). What, faithful in putting their feet upon the law of God? No, No. These have not the mark of the beast upon them. I want that peace that comes through an obedience to all of the commandments of God. Amen.—Ms. 5, 1885. (MR 900.8)Matthew 25:21-25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 86, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, par. 30
Christ likens the kingdom of heaven to a man who, when about to take a long journey, called to him his servants, and delivered to them his goods, giving to one five talents, to another two, and to another one, bidding them trade upon them. After a long time he returned and reckoned with them. The servant who had received five talents and the servant who had received two brought to their lord the talents entrusted to them, with the increase they had gained by trading. And in terms of the highest approval their lord commended their diligence and skill, saying, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, par. 31
“Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed; and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth; lo, there thou hast that is thine.” [Verses 24, 25.]Matthew 25:21-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 44, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 8
Christ has given “to every man his work.” [Mark 13:34.] He expects every man to do his work with fidelity. High and low, rich and poor, all have a work to do for the Master. Every one is called to action. If you do not obey the voice of the Lord, if you do not do His appointed work in firm reliance upon Christ as your sufficiency, if you do not follow His example, “unfaithful, slothful servant” will be registered against your name. [See Matthew 25:26.] Unless the light which has been given you is communicated to others, unless you let your light shine, it will go out in darkness, and your soul will be left in awful peril.10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 10
The Lord’s vineyard is more extensive than the present working force are able properly to cultivate. Therefore it is necessary that every one should labor to the full extent of his ability. Whosoever shall refuse to do this dishonors the Lord of the vineyard, and if he continues inactive, the Lord will disown him. As the human agent endeavors to labor, God works in him and by him. When the Lord sees that little real effort for the conversion of souls is put forth in regions beyond, when He sees that golden opportunities are lost, and that the spiritual physician is devoting his energy and skill to those who are whole, neglecting the maladies of those who are ready to die, He is not pleased. He cannot pronounce the “Well done” [Matthew 25:21] upon such work, for it is not hastening but hindering the progress of His cause when rapid advancement is most necessary. Time and energy and means are devoted to those who know the truth, instead of being used to enlighten the ignorant.Matthew 25:21-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 77, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 77, 1902, par. 46
In the parable of the talents, the servant who had five talents traded upon them wisely and in the day of reckoning was able to bring double that number to the Master. The one also who had two doubled his talents. But the man who had one talent hid it in a napkin and buried it in the earth. And when the master returned and reckoned with his servants, the sentence pronounced upon this slothful servant was, “Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.” [Matthew 25:28.]17LtMs, Ms 77, 1902, par. 52
To him who uses aright his one talent, the Master will say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] The welldoer is not regarded in proportion to the number off his entrusted talents, but in proportion to the use made of that which he has, and the motive which prompts his action.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 77, 1902
2SAT 201.1
In the parable of the talents the servant who had five talents traded upon them wisely, and in the day of reckoning was able to bring double that number to the Master. The one also who had two doubled his talents. But the man who had one talent hid it in a napkin and buried it in the earth. And when the master returned and reckoned with his servants, the sentence pronounced upon this unslothful servant was, “Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents” (Matthew 25:28).2SAT 202.3
To him who uses aright his one talent, the Master will say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21). The well-doer is not rewarded in proportion to the number of his entrusted talents, but in proportion to the use made of that which he has, and the motive which prompts his action.Matthew 25:21-30
Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Parable of the Talents
1TT 364.2
Every man is a steward of God. To each the Master has committed His means, but man claims that means as his own. Christ says: “Occupy till I come.” Luke 19:13. A time is coming when Christ will require His own with usury. He will say to each of His stewards: “Give an account of thy stewardship.” Luke 16:2. Those who have hid their Lord’s money in a napkin in the earth, instead of putting it out to the exchangers, and those who have squandered their Lord’s money by expending it for needless things, instead of putting it out to usury by investing it in His cause, will not receive approval from the Master, but decided condemnation. The unprofitable servant in the parable brought back the one talent to God, and said: “I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strewed: and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.” His Lord takes up his words: “Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strewed: thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.” Matthew 25:24-27.1TT 365.2
He who embezzles his Lord’s goods not only loses the talent lent him of God, but loses eternal life. Of him it is said: “Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness.” Matthew 25:30. The faithful servant, who invests his money in the cause of God to save souls, employs his means to the glory of God and will receive the commendation of the Master: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Verse 21. What will be this joy of our Lord? It will be the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of glory. “Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2.Matthew 25:21-34
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 71a, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 71a, 1894, par. 24
For Christ’s sake, for your own soul’s eternal interest, surrender to God and become as a little child, or you will never hear the welcome benediction, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” “Well done, thou good, and faithful servant. ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:34, 21.] That joy is the joy of seeing souls eternally saved in the kingdom of God through your instrumentality. I beseech of you, let not this present opportunity pass by. The Lord Jesus will accept of you if you come to Him just as you are. If you receive the Lord, you will be a living witness of His grace. It will be made manifest what the truth can do in remodeling defective character after the divine similitude.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 12, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 12, 1895, par. 40
And what do we see then? Oh, we see a retinue of angels on either side of the gate, and as we pass in, Jesus speaks, “Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom that is prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [Matthew 25:34.] Here He tells you to be a partaker of His joy, and what is that? It is the joy of seeing of the travail of your soul, fathers. It is the joy of seeing that your efforts, mothers, are rewarded. Here are your children; the crown of life is upon their heads, and the angels of God immortalize the name of the mothers whose efforts have won their children to Jesus Christ.10LtMs, Ms 12, 1895, par. 42
I love Jesus. I see in Him matchless charms. I want everybody to love Him, I want that you should love Him. May God help us to stand at our appointed post of duty. God help us to work, not only for time, but for eternity. Eternity will tell of the work you have done in this life to fashion characters after the divine model, and the “well done” will be your reward. [Verse 21.] God bless you. How many shall we meet around the throne of God? How many here will see the King in His beauty? How many will work and say, Come, and he that heareth say, Come and partake of the waters of life freely?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 80a, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 80a, 1895, par. 18
“Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:34, 21.] The Redeemer is glorified, because He has not died in vain.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 126, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 126, 1902, par. 54
May the Lord bless and strengthen you who are under appointment to go to other lands. If we never meet again in this life, I pray that we shall meet in that glad day when the gates of the city of God will be swung back on their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth will enter in, there to hear Christ saying, in sweetest tones, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” “Enter into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:34, 21.] The redeemed will cast their crowns at His feet, crying, “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain!” [Revelation 5:12.]The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 57—The Revelation
AA 590.4
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. In this world their minds were consecrated to God; they served Him with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name “in their foreheads.” “And they shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 22:5. They do not go in and out as those who beg a place. They are of that number to whom Christ says, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” He welcomes them as His children, saying, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:34, 21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 42, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 42, 1886, par. 11
We must put on the whole armor in order that we may secure an entrance into the city of God. We have heaven to win or lose, and to accomplish this we must take our eyes away from the things of earth and center our minds upon heavenly things. Temptation will assail us all the way through. Our aim should not be to reach the world’s standard, for it will be seen in the day of God that that standard will count for nothing. Those who reach it will not hear from the lips of Christ, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.]4LtMs, Ms 42, 1886, par. 13
It is our privilege to gather rays of light and not to be content with present attainments, for the Lord has an abundance of light for us. Are we pressing on to know what the Lord would have us do? When Christ comes in power with His holy angels, we shall want to be children of God and we shall want to hear Him say to us, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you.” Matthew 25:34. On the other hand there will be those who will cry for the mountains and rocks to fall upon them to hide them “from the face of Him that sitteth upon the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” Revelation 6:16, 17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 8a, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 8a, 1888, par. 55
To those who have been true and faithful, Christ will say, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:34, 21.] All who enter the kingdom of heaven as conquerors will understand the meaning of this benediction, for they will have done the work Christ has given them to do. They have participated with Him in saving the souls of their fellow men. Through the grace of Christ they have brought sheaves to the Master, and with all the heavenly universe they rejoice as they see souls that have been saved through their earnest efforts given abundant entrance into heaven, made heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. How foolish then will appear all fear and distrust of Christ, as the redeemed see that He was waiting to give them freely the richest blessings of heaven.Maranatha
Home at Last! November 7
Mar 319.1
Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:21.Mar 319.3
By and by the gates of heaven will be thrown open to admit God’s children, and from the lips of the King of glory the benediction will fall on their ears like richest music, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 25:34.Matthew 25:21-40
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 43a, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 22
No man can serve two masters. If tobacco is your master, if it has brought all your forces under the control of the pernicious appetite, it is your master, and you are its slave. How then can you serve your tobacco and your God, sending up the fumes of tobacco before you go into the prayer meeting so that your mind is so confused that you do not know what you are about? Why? Because the stimulant of tobacco and the stimulant of the Holy Spirit of God never combine to give meaning to inspiration in the meeting that you may give the testimony clear from the courts of heaven that God wants you to give. “Ye are my witnesses,” says God [Isaiah 43:10], and God wants us by precept and example to represent Christ in our world. He represented the Father, and He left the work in our hands to attend to the needy and the distressed, and to have something to help them that they may have the blessing of relief, the necessities of suffering humanity. But if we use it up unwisely, imprudently, He will say, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, why did not you take My talent, why did you not put it out to the exchangers? Why did not you use My gift that you could double it for My service?” [See Matthew 25:26, 27.] God wants us to win souls for Him; and then what? You are to begin to work with the talent which God has lent you, and then every gift there is, to the praise of heaven.9LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 30
The poor are suffering for food, and there are youth that you could educate and train. Our houses should be made pleasant to our children. Remove the drapery that would shut out the sunlight and the pure air of heaven lest they tarnish the beautiful pictures and the carpets. Let them tarnish them. Had they not better tarnish these than have the children obtain a street education, and imbibe the appetites and the passions of this degenerate age which tarnish the soul, and may produce a scar which can never be effaced? Here are the human beings. The probabilities and the possibilities are before them of working out a character for the future, immortal life, so that the Lord can say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:21.] Oh, will not that fall on the ear like the sweetest music?9LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 31
“I was hungry, and ye fed me; I was sick and in prison, and ye visited me; I was naked, and ye clothed me.” Jesus was abiding in the heart and in the mind. They were serving Him so perfectly that they have no idea that they have done anything wonderful. They don’t know what they have done. “Inasmuch,” said Jesus Christ, “as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Verses 35, 36, 40.] I want the tobacco devotees to reckon up every week how much they devote to their idol god tobacco. I want the liquor drinkers to reckon up what they spend for wine, brandy, and strong drinks, and then see the sum you might expend on God’s purchased possession.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 35, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 35, 1896, par. 11
The wrong you have done is not charged as being done to your wife, but to Jesus Christ in the person of His saint. “Verily I say unto you,” said Christ, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] Jesus Christ identifies His interest with suffering humanity. Your wife is His property, bought with the price of His blood. But you have permitted her to work like a slave to support herself and her forsaken little ones. This will all appear against you in the books of heaven unless you repent and confess your sins to God. I beg of you for your soul’s sake to make no delay. God has borne long with your perversity. He has given you more than one test and trial. Shall the mandate at last go forth, “And after that thou shalt cut it down”? [Luke 13:9.]11LtMs, Lt 35, 1896, par. 14
Can the Lord open to you the gates of the city of God? Can He say to you, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? [Matthew 25:21.] I so much hope you would be convicted of the robbery which you had practiced toward your wife, for the Lord has pronounced it embezzlement. You have robbed her of that which was her right, and thrown upon her weak shoulders the care of your numerous children. I beg of you to do justice to the woman you have abused and loaded down with such heavy burdens.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 68, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 68, 1898, par. 4
I now ask you to change this matter, and make no charge for any poor servant of God who shall come within your borders. I am sure of one thing, and that is that whoever the parties are who have decided this matter, they take heed to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, if they ever have the “Well done” spoken to them. [Matthew 25:21.] Then they will be able to take in the situation for themselves, without my having to call the attention of any who compose the board. I ask you now for Christ’s sake to change this matter.13LtMs, Lt 68, 1898, par. 7
I must say that I am disappointed in you. I am more grieved than I can express to know that the Spirit of the Lord is not working the hearts of our people, that their principles are not of a Christlike character. I have <had this matter presented to me> by the Lord Jesus that it is these very things that will constitute us Christians. Whatever our profession may be, we are not Christians if we neglect this work. Christ says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.]13LtMs, Lt 68, 1898, par. 8
We are dealing with God in the person of His saints. We need men in our institutions who have hearts of flesh and not of steel. We want men to conduct our institutions who will make Christ their model. The words and works of Christ are to be the pattern—of the youth and of the man. Every man will be tested and tried, and this will develop character. All who desire to hear from the lips of Christ the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” must make these words true of themselves. [Verse 23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 14, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 14, 1889, par. 36
There are those who have lived in an atmosphere of doubt, men of talent and acquirements who attend our special meetings for business and for counsel, whom Satan works through to hinder the work of God. When propositions are made to advance the work, when the glory of God alone is considered, these men, supposing themselves to be wise and of far-seeing judgment, will catch at a little item of no particular consequence, and they will talk over it and make everyone else talk over it and hinder the work which might have moved right along to its completion. And when once they start a thing, they will hold tenaciously to their ideas. They consider it a virtue, a matter of praise in them, to appear to have this great caution and wonderful foresight, when [they] are only carrying the stones to trig the wheels, making the work exceedingly trying in these business meetings because these men intrude themselves to notice, when the “Well done” [Matthew 25:21] would have been said to them in heaven and in earth if they had kept silence.6LtMs, Lt 14, 1889, par. 56
Your feelings, your words that have been spoken against your brethren, have been registered against you in the books of heaven as done to Jesus Christ in the person of His saints. “Inasmuch as ye have done this to the least of these, My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” [Matthew 25:40.]Matthew 25:21-41
The Great Controversy
Chapter 33—The First Great Deception
GC 549.1
But if the dead are already enjoying the bliss of heaven or writhing in the flames of hell, what need of a future judgment? The teachings of God’s word on these important points are neither obscure nor contradictory; they may be understood by common minds. But what candid mind can see either wisdom or justice in the current theory? Will the righteous, after the investigation of their cases at the judgment, receive the commendation, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” when they have been dwelling in His presence, perhaps for long ages? Are the wicked summoned from the place of torment to receive sentence from the Judge of all the earth: “Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire”? Matthew 25:21, 41. Oh, solemn mockery! shameful impeachment of the wisdom and justice of God!The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 33—The First Great Deception
GC88 549.2
But if the dead are already enjoying the bliss of Heaven or writhing in the flames of hell, what need of a future Judgment? The teachings of God’s Word on these important points are neither obscure nor contradictory; they may be understood by common minds. But what candid mind can see either wisdom or justice in the current theory? Will the righteous, after the investigation of their cases at the Judgment, receive the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” “enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” [Matthew 25:21, 41.] when they have been dwelling in his presence, perhaps for long ages? Are the wicked summoned from the place of torment to receive the sentence from the Judge of all the earth, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire?” [Matthew 25:21, 41.] Oh, solemn mockery! shameful impeachment of the wisdom and justice of God!From Here to Forever
The First Resurrection
HF 337.1
But if the dead already enjoy heaven or writhe in the flames of hell, what need of a future judgment? God’s Word may be understood by common minds. But what candid mind can see either wisdom or justice in the current theory? Will the righteous receive the commendation, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” when they have been dwelling in His presence for long ages? Are the wicked summoned from torment to receive sentence from the Judge, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire”? Matthew 25:21, 41.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Resurrection to Eternal Life
GrH_c 18.8
But if the dead already enjoy heaven or writhe in the flames of hell, what need of a future judgment? God’s Word may be understood by common minds. But what candid mind can see either wisdom or justice in the current theory? Will the righteous receive the commendation, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant,... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” when they have been dwelling in His presence for long ages? Are the wicked summoned from torment to receive sentence from the Judge, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire”? Matthew 25:21, 41.Matthew 25:21-42
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 16, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 16, 1893, par. 18
There will [be] a class stand before the judgment seat of Christ of whom Christ will say, “I was hungry and ye fed me not.” [Matthew 25:42.] Everything rests upon what character we develop. You shall become changed into His likeness if you have chosen Him as your Counselor. Your confessions should be to Christ. Never confess to any man unless you have wronged him. Jesus Christ is the one that bears our sins. Many think they do not want religion if it would do no more for them than it does for Brother X. The Bible, the garden of God, is full of rich promises. Search its pages. No matter if the devil says you are a sinner. Christ came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance. Let us believe He has come to save us from our sins. I feel so grateful to Him that I can commit my soul to Him; and He will keep that which I have committed to His trust. Let the world see that there is matchless charm in Jesus. Christ says, “I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] And you can have the same victories. And hear at last, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.]Matthew 25:21-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 45, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 45, 1894, par. 20
All who shall be counted worthy to have an entrance into the Holy City of God will in character be without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, so that the lips of Him who is Truth, in whose mouth is no guile, may say, “Come, ye blessed of my Father.” “Thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:34, 21.] Goodness and faithfulness must combine. The Lord has no part in the transactions of men who are connected with His work, but who take pride in their close, sharp dealing, who do injustice after the world’s standard, even in dealing with the men whom they claim as brethren. This is a work that needs thoroughly to be repented of.9LtMs, Lt 45, 1894, par. 29
Christ identifies His interest with that of suffering humanity. He reproved His own nation for their wrong treatment of their fellowmen. The neglect or abuse of the weakest, the most erring believers, he speaks of as rendered to himself. The favors shown them are all credited as bestowed upon himself. He has not left us in darkness concerning our duty, but often repeats the same lessons through different figures and in different lights. He carries the actors forward to the last great day and declares that the treatment given to the very least of His brethren as commended or condemned as if done to Himself. He says, “Ye did it unto Me,” or, “ye did it not unto Me.” [Matthew 25:40, 45.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 82, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, par. 10
Instead of learning to work in the way that Christ would have us, many have wasted their time in foolish talking and pursuits, they have lived to please themselves, and have not laid up their treasures above. Let not such think that to them will be said, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:21.] The words appropriate to their cases will be, “You have been attentive to self, lived to please and favor and glorify self, and your portion must be with unbelievers. You have chosen to be like them in words and actions. You did not deny self for my sake. You were not obedient to my commandments, and I cannot receive you into my kingdom. You wasted your opportunities, and did not value the probationary time I graciously gave you to form characters for eternal life. You did not have respect unto the recompense of reward. You have not loved me who died for you, but have refused to comply with the conditions upon which the heavenly benefit was conferred. You refused to come out from the world and to be separate, and touch not the unclean, although I promised to be a Father unto you, and pledged my word that you should be my sons and daughters, members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. You despised my words, and cared not for my entreaties. The disposition which led you to do this in probationary time is unchanged, although I declared to you that as your Redeemer, I was able to save unto the uttermost all that came unto God by me. You did not come, but drew apart from me, and chose other associates, and loved other society. Though I had chosen you, you had not chosen me, and you have made your own choice.”11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, par. 11
“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: and before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” [Verses 31-45.]Living by Principle
Heart Service
PH048 44.5
Matthew 25:21: His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.PH048 47.5
Matthew 25:42-45: For I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 60, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 60, 1886, par. 24
In the last great day we shall be judged in accordance with what we have done. Christ will say, “I was an hungred and ye gave Me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave Me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took Me not in: naked and ye clothed Me not; sick, and in prison, and ye visited Me not. Then shall they also answer Him, saying, Lord, when saw we Thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto Thee?” Matthew 25:42-44. Christ will then say, “Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to Me.” V. 45. And Christ will say, “Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.” V. 41.4LtMs, Ms 60, 1886, par. 26
There are souls to be saved all around us, and each has a work to do to be reconciled to Christ. This is the work to take hold of in the New Year. We are living for time and eternity, and we want the light to flash upon our pathway, and in return we want to extend its blessings to others. The only way to be representatives of Christ is to love one another; and if we reflect the image of Christ, then when we enter the gates of the city, it will be said, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.Matthew 25:23
Daughters of God
Our Will and Our Way Should Be Submitted to God
DG 233.1
Christ has bought us with a dear price, but yet He will recompense our service to Him. We may feel sad and weep over our poor service to Him who has given us such unmeasured evidences of His interest in and love for us. But the recompense will not be in exact proportion to the amount of work done, but in accordance with the motive and the love which prompted the doing of the work. The recompense will be of grace. His own abundant mercy will be displayed not because we have done anything worthy, but on account of His unmeasured love. Christ will say to the faithful, sincere worker, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23. And even now angels of God take cognizance of our works of love and righteousness and we shall not be forgotten even in this life. In keeping His commandments there is great reward. “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165. Christ lays no more upon His servants than He gives them strength to perform. He will not cast them off in their adversity. When heart and flesh fail He will be the strength of their heart and their portion forever.Our Father Cares
Welcome to the City of God, December 27
OFC 373.1
His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 22, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 22, 1900, par. 19
My brother and sister, to you has come a terrible sorrow, yet God lives; Jesus lives to be our Advocate. He did nothing worthy of death, yet He died. And if we hear the glad words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of the Lord” [Matthew 25:23], we shall have done nothing worthy of life. Jesus the sinless died without having done anything to deserve death. The sinner, upon whom the sentence of death has been passed, does nothing worthy of the rich blessings which come to him. He is wholly without merit, so far as his individual goodness is concerned. But clothed with the spotless robe of Christ’s righteousness, he is accepted by God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 31, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, par. 31
Christ gave His life for our children and for us, because He desired us to form characters after the divine similitude, that we may enter in through the gates into the holy city, and hear from the divine lips the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Do you not want to hear these words? Strive with all the power God has given you to gain the crown of everlasting life, that you may cast it at the feet of the Redeemer, and touching the golden harp, fill all heaven with rich music. God help you to gain eternal life, that you may see His face.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 110, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, par. 47
I love the Lord, because He first loved me. I praise my heavenly Father that I can know that Christ is by my side at all times; for His promise is, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Think you there is anything in this world that tempts me to go astray from the Word of God? Oh, no! I have so firm a faith in Jesus Christ that I am looking forward to the time when I shall behold the King in His beauty, and see His matchless charms. Soon the gates of the city of God will be thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth will enter in and hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servants, enter ye into the joy of your Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 108, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 108, 1901, par. 10
He who comes into another man’s field of labor to scoff at his work is not fitted for ministerial labor. He might better, far better, use his powers in some other work. Those who search for something with which to find fault have taken the enemy’s side of the question. Can Christ say of them, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:23.] Are they giving the trumpet a certain sound? Are they proclaiming to a perishing world the last message of mercy?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 225, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 225, 1901, par. 3
Dr. Kellogg, you will never be sustained in regard to that transaction, nor hear the words from Christ in regard to it, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] The words given me, which I was instructed to say to you are, “I have not found thy works perfect before me. You must bring into your work altogether different principles, then I can sustain you and guard you.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 39, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, par. 15
Run with patience the race set before you. Practice self-denial. If you win the race in which you are running, your reward will not be a fading laurel, but a crown of everlasting life. Satan is playing the game of life for your souls. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth resist him, and receive the blessing of God. Work for the salvation of those around you. May the blessing of God rest upon you all. Be faithful to your baptismal vows. Press forward in the path of self-denial. Then you will at last see the King in His beauty, and hear from His lips the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant. ... Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 38, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, par. 22
There is work for the Iowa Conference to do. When they do this work, they will have no time for fault-finding or complaining. Christ said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] This is our work. God calls upon His people to be working Christians. They are to improve by right use of the talents He has entrusted to them. Let us not be like the slothful servant who hid his one talent in the earth. Let us rather be like the servant who doubled his talents, to whom his Lord said, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Shall we not live so that the “Well done” shall be spoken to us? If we expect to sit with the Man of Calvary on His throne, we must here work as He worked.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 144, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 144, 1901, par. 7
Students, do all in your power to lighten the burdens of your teachers. Pledge yourselves to act a noble part by showing them that you mean to improve in every way. Use your time as if this term were the last opportunity you would have of attending school. Make the most of the golden opportunity offered you. Be faithful, obedient students, upon whom Christ can look with pleasure. Live so that He can speak to you the words of commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 65, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, par. 30
As you move forward step by step, inch by inch, adding to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, God will be with you and you will never fall. While you are working on the plan of addition, Christ is working on the plan of multiplication. You are working for time and for eternity, striving for an imperishable crown. Strive lawfully, serving God with heart, mind, soul, and strength. Then when Christ comes to gather His jewels to Himself, you will hear the words of welcome: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 109, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 109, 1901, par. 13
Can it be that our brethren think that their criticisms are the productions of the Holy Spirit? It will be found that those who are criticized have more to show for their efforts than those who criticize. The names of the humble workers are stamped on the books of heaven with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] But opposite the names of the critics stand the words, “Thou art weighed in the balances and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 84, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, par. 24
Let there be manifested in the life of every teacher that sweetness in the family, that helpfulness, that meekness and lowliness of heart, which characterized the life of the Great Teacher. In being helpful, we shall be learning how to live faithfully to God—how to be His helping hand. He who is faithful in the little things, will be faithful in greater responsibilities. “Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:23.]16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, par. 26
In the great mercy of God, probationary time is given to you, that you may have a preparatory heaven here below where you can develop a character that will entitle you at last to hear the blessed words, “Good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.] Are you willing to be servants of the living God? By using all the capabilities and powers which God has given you, are you determined to reach the very highest standard, climbing the ladder of progress round after round, round after round, and getting a clearer and yet clearer knowledge of God and His ways and His works? If you do this, you will finally step from this ladder into the immortal inheritance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 134, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 134, 1901, par. 7
Students, do all in your power to lighten the burdens of your teachers. Pledge yourselves daily to act a noble part by showing your instructors that you mean to do your very best to improve in every way. Use your time as if this term were the last opportunity you would have to attend school. Make the most of the golden opportunity offered you. Do your very best. Be faithful, obedient students upon whom Christ can look with pleasure. Live so that He can speak to you the words of commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 99, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 99, 1901, par. 3
You forget that you have been one of the chief workers in the last twelve years in bringing matters to their present shape in the Review Office. By the grace of God you could have softened and subdued your hereditary and cultivated tendencies. Then your brethren would have placed you where your time and strength would have been used to the saving of your own soul. But you have exalted yourself. You have devoted your time to political matters as though you were appointed to that work. But what has it all amounted to?—Spiritual and temporal poverty. The productions of your pen have been many, but God can not say of you, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 56, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 56, 1901, par. 14
“Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Christ gave His life for a fallen, degenerate race, leaving us an example, that we should follow in His steps. To him who does this will be spoken the words of approval, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 125a, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 125a, 1902, par. 7
There will come to you many opportunities to help one another. Not all are able to grasp ideas quickly. If you see that a fellow student has difficulty in understanding his lesson, explain them to him. Be patient and persevering, and by and by his hesitancy and dulness will disappear. He will gain courage and strength to endure trial. And in the effort to help others, you, too, will be blessed. God will give you power to advance in your studies. He will co-operate with you in your efforts to help your fellow students, and in heaven the words will be spoken of you, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 125, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 125, 1902, par. 12
I want to speak a few more words to you about helping one another. Not all are able to grasp ideas quickly. If you see that a fellow student has difficulty in understanding his lessons, explain them to him. Be patient and persevering, and by and by his hesitancy and dulness will disappear. He will gain courage and strength to endure trial. And in the effort to help others, you, too, will be helped. God will give you power to advance in your studies. He will co-operate with you in your efforts to help your fellow students, and in heaven the words will be spoken of you, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Prophets and Kings
Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke
PK 142.2
God cannot use men who, in time of peril, when the strength, courage, and influence of all are needed, are afraid to take a firm stand for the right. He calls for men who will do faithful battle against wrong, warring against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. It is to such as these that He will speak the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 230, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 230, 1902, par. 17
Just before my husband died, I put my hand in his. Said I, “I will carry on the work that you leave.” Why, I never thought of doing business. His steamboat head would plan for everything; but then I have taken the work as a pioneer, and my children are helping me in the work. One here, and one in the Southern States is at work there; and we are doing what we can for the Master. When you want to find our treasure, you won’t find much of it that is here. We want to keep the hired means, if they want us to, till the Lord comes. And then what? Why, then, we will change. We will go up into the upper court. We will enter the pearly gates of the City of God, and hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Now that is what we want.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 99, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 99, 1902, par. 7
Shall the compassionate, self-sacrificing Saviour find us wanting in tenderness, love, sympathy for those for whom He gave His life. God has granted us gracious opportunities for service. He has provided us with precious talents, and we are answerable to Him for the use we make of them. If we use them wisely, God will call us laborers together with Him. If we cleanse ourselves from every impure, selfish principle, we shall one day hear the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 122, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 122, 1902, par. 13
In speaking of talented men, we usually think of those who have remarkable gifts which enable them to do large things. Too often we think that only a favored few—men of superior genius and intellectual capabilities—can be called “talented.” But in Christ’s parable of the talents are included all responsible human agents, from the humblest and poorest in this world’s goods to those who are entrusted with talents of means and of intellect. Even those who faithfully use the least of talents will hear from the Saviour’s lips the words of commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” The value that God places on the least of talents is shown by the reward He gives for its right use—eternal life. To every faithful steward He will say, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 141, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 141, 1902, par. 22
God permits men to work out the purposes He would have saved them from had they kept His commandments. When in the face of light and evidence, they refuse to obey, they must reap the harvest of the seed they have sown. “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” [Verse 10.] The wicked have chosen Satan as their leader. Under his control, the wonderful faculties of the mind are used to construct agencies of destruction. God has given the human mind great power, power to show that the Creator has endowed man with ability to do a great work against the enemy of all righteousness, power to show what victories may be gained in the conflict against evil. To those who fulfil God’s purpose for them will be spoken the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] The human machinery has been used to do a work that is a blessing to humanity; and God is glorified.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 100, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 100, 1902, par. 30
Every faithful parent will hear from the lips of the Master the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] May the Lord help us to be good and faithful servants in our dealings with one another. He tells us to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works,” helping and strengthening one another. [Hebrews 10:24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 67, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 67, 1903, par. 42
Students, if you strip yourselves of every hindrance to progress in the Christian life, your mind will be worked by the Holy Spirit of God, and you will become fishers of men. The salvation of God will go forth from you as a lamp that burneth. Kindling your taper from the divine altar, you will have the privilege, wherever you may be, of shedding light upon those who are in darkness. If you continue steadfast in His service, He will open wide the gates of the heavenly city, and say, as you enter in, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 147, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 147, 1903, par. 4
Those who walk in the narrow way must follow the directions of the guidebook. Thus only can they reach the gates of the city of God. They are to follow the example of Christ, working as He worked. Then at last they will hear the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 117, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 117, 1903, par. 23
My brother, Christ loves you. He has shown you how much He loves you. I cannot find words to tell you how greatly you have disappointed Him in the past. You have allowed the enemy to sway you first in one way and then in another, and the tempter has exulted as you have given way to his temptations. You must have an entirely different experience before Christ can say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] When you are thoroughly converted, you will be kept by the power of God from exhibiting the weak points in your character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 22, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 22, 1903, par. 21
We need to understand what our conferences are held for, whether to talk over a few preliminaries or to set our souls in order before God, that when we return to the work, we may carry right principles into our churches and institutions. When we remember constantly that God has taken us into covenant relation with Himself, our work in connection with His churches and institutions will be of such a character that He can say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] Do we not all want to hear these words?Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
A Failure to Honor God
8T 51.1
While you have been gratifying your inclination in the appropriation of money—God’s money—for which you must give an account, missionary work has been hindered and bound about for want of means and workers to plant the banner of truth in places where the people have never heard the message of warning. Will God say to those who are selfishly pleasing their own imagination and gratifying their own desires: “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 132, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 132, 1903, par. 22
Where shall we be before the thousand generations mentioned in this Scripture are ended? Our fates will have been decided for eternity. We shall either have been pronounced worthy of a home in the everlasting kingdom of God, or we shall have received sentence of eternal death. Those who have been true and faithful to their covenant with God, those who, remembering Calvary, have stood firmly on the side of truth, ever striving to honor God, will hear the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] But those who have given God only half-hearted service, allowing their lives to be conformed to the ways and practices of the world, will hear the sad words, “Depart from Me; I know you not.” [Luke 13:25, 27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 55, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 55, 1903, par. 21
What has been done to you, that you should think to revenge yourself to doing that which will ruin your soul? What excuse can you give to God for working out Satan’s plans? Will it pay to follow the course that you are planning to pursue? Will it gain for you the welcome, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 54, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 54, 1904, par. 8
You see the work that has been established here. You see that advancement has been made, and that the education has been carried forward in right lines, under many discouraging circumstances. This work of opposition and dissatisfaction has come from the enemy. It has cost the life of a wife and mother. But it has not taken away her crown of eternal life, nor hindered her from receiving the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 72, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 72, 1904, par. 19
The enmity that God has put in our hearts against deceptive practices must be kept alive, because these practices endanger the souls of those who do not hate them. All deceptive dealings, all untruthfulness regarding the Father and the Son, by which their characters are presented in a false light, are to be recognized as grievous sins. There are those who have become apt scholars in this deceptive work. Those who cannot see the danger that is threatening the Lord’s heritage because of these things will soon feel no enmity against the archdeceiver. Those who stand in positions of trust in our institutions are to show constant vigilance. In words and deportment, in all their business transactions, they are to show the exactitude that will win the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 152, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 152, 1904, par. 65
E. G. White: If you can bring it in in that line, that is all the education that is necessary. Now here is St. Louis, and here are all these cities—I don’t know how it is people that are in the South here, with this message, and these cities unworked, can come up to the Judgment and feel excused before God—I don’t know how they can do it; I don’t know how God can say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 102, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 102, 1904, par. 37
In that glad day when the Lord will say to every earnest laborer for Him, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” [Matthew 25:23], the ransomed ones will exclaim: “Worthy, worthy, is the Lamb that was slain, and lives again, a triumphant Conqueror.” What joy the worker will then feel in going to those to whom he has spoken with trembling and in fearfulness—those to whom he has opened the Scriptures and with whom he has prayed, thus balancing their souls on the right side.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 6, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 6, 1905, par. 12
Let us consider more diligently and carefully the work of character building. When Jesus was working at the carpenter’s bench, some of His associates would sometimes deride Him because He took such pains with every detail. If the parts of what He was making did not fit perfectly, He would put more work on them. Some thought such scrupulous care needless. But thus Christ was teaching us the need of striving for perfection in all that we do. Our work is to be done so carefully that God can say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
To Every Man His Work
8T 171.1
Live for God. Make the Saviour’s teaching a part of your life. Your pathway will be brightened by clear, shining light. You will have the heavenly anointing and will be kept from making grave blunders. Do not be so intent upon the work you are doing in one portion of the Lord’s vineyard that you cannot appreciate the work that others are doing in other parts of the vineyard. They may be faithfully cultivating their talents so that they can return them, doubled, to their God. Let every man look well to his own work, making sure that it is complete, without spot or wrinkle to mar its perfection. Then leave it with God to say: “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 15, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 15, 1905, par. 9
A terrible deception has taken possession of the Christian world. There is a high profession, but a dwarfed godliness. Let us so live that at last God can say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Our lives may show a steady spiritual growth. But I have seen that which makes me tremble—men and women dwarfed in character, possessing the Word of God which tells them what they must do in order to be saved, yet unsanctified and unholy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 188, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 188, 1905, par. 19
God has an interest in every nerve and muscle of your being. Your talent of speech is a sacred talent. Let it be used always with grace. Guard your appetite, that it may be sound and helpful. Your soul is precious in the sight of God, for it is the purchase of the blood of Christ. It is to be educated and trained and disciplined, that it may be fitted to join the redeemed family in the courts of heaven. It is your privilege to be an overcomer and to hear spoken to you the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 66, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 66, 1905, par. 23
Christ came to our world without display. But today great displays are made every now and then. Thousands of dollars are expended right among our own people in such displays, and this God forbids. That is not the way to get the truth before the people. Christ could have come to this world accompanied by thousands of angels, but He did not do this. He stepped down from His high command, and laying aside His royal robe and kingly crown, He came to this world in the garb of humanity, to live a life of perfect obedience, that human beings, receiving Him as their Redeemer, might become partakers of the divine nature, and at last stand before God without spot or stain of sin. He died for us that we might be made worthy to enter through the gates of the holy city and hear the welcome, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 20, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 20, 1905, par. 11
Let the fear of God influence you, not the fear of men. Use all the tact and skill at your command in giving the truth to those who know it not. Remember that all around you there are souls perishing in sin. Be as true as steel to principle, and put your whole heart into the work of winning souls to Christ. Speak and act in such a way that at the last great day Christ can say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 84, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 84, 1905, par. 7
Let us never forget that by the characters which we are forming day by day, we are deciding our future destiny. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ will find in the heavenly courts a glad reception. Are our hearts purified from all defilement? Let us awake to the solemn reality that happiness and heaven are for those only who are obedient to all God’s commandments. Those only who have brought their will into constant conformity to the will of God will receive the commendation: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 38a, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 38a, 1905, par. 34
Let us keep our eyes fixed firmly upon the Author and Finisher of our faith, that we may finally hear the words spoken to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 79, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 79, 1906, par. 11
I am entrusted with a message. In our food work have we not been walking and working more nearly after the pattern of the world than after the pattern of Christ? What words have we spoken to the large multitudes we have fed? How are we presenting to these souls the Bread of life? Can Christ say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Can each worker truthfully say, “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work”? [John 4:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 314, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 314, 1906, par. 8
We have many things to remind us of our need of chastisement. Some of our buildings have been burned, books and plates have been destroyed. We need these misfortunes, else they would not have been permitted to come. The words are spoken: “Well done, good and faithful servant,” not “Well done, good and successful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 49, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 49, 1906, par. 36
“Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 378, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, par. 8
If believers fall in love with the truth in its purity, if they become free from all worldliness and self-exaltation, if they are all agreed, the influence of their lives will make an impression on unbelievers. Their reward may not always come in this life, but even in this world they will possess a peace and quietude, a rest in God, that passeth all understanding. Many will take knowledge of them, that they have been with Jesus and have learned of Him. In the future will come their exceeding great reward. In the heavenly courts they will hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] In their purity, their humility, and their meekness, they have represented Christ, and they are now entering into their eternal riches. They are washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. The joy of Christ is their exceeding great reward.That I May Know Him
The Religion of Little Things, November 15
TMK 325.1
His Lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 42, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, par. 3
To some God will one day speak the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] These words of commendation will be spoken to those who endure test and trial, who submit to the refining process and are made white by the blood of the Lamb. If all those who profess to be sons and daughters of God would reveal in the words and in the life practice the light and grace of God, they would be companionable. They would learn of Him who has said: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, par. 29
Let physicians and nurses, and all helpers, make a covenant with God by sacrifice at every step. If all will bring all the principles of true religion into their service for God, they will some day hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 236, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 236, 1908, par. 12
We become overcomers by helping others to overcome, by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. The keeping of the commandments of God will yield in us an obedient spirit, and the service that is the offspring of such a spirit, God can accept. O that we all in the day of final award might hear the words spoken individually to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] How many in our churches will seek to set such an example as will reflect to mankind the Light of the world?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 17, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 17, 1908, par. 3
It is greatly to be deplored that the influence and labors of some have not led the church members to unity of action in the work of soul-saving. The experience of some in church work has not been such as to prepare them to receive the “well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] May the Lord carry on a work of thorough reformation in the hearts and lives of those who have been given great light, but who have refused to repent and be converted! Their position and influence mean much to members of our churches.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 91, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 91, 1908, par. 5
Heavenly angels are looking in pity on our unwarned cities. They look with wonder upon those who profess to be working for the upbuilding of the kingdom of Christ in the earth. Can they say “Well done, good and faithful servant,” to those who are not earnest and faithful? [Matthew 25:23.] My brethren, let us consider the needs of the cities. Let us lay off our needless adornments, our unnecessary indulgences, that through our self-sacrifice souls may be won to Christ. Let us begin the work without delay, that those who have long been left in ignorance of the truth for this time may speedily hear the message of warning, the last the world will receive.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 348, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 348, 1908, par. 5
Take heed, my brother, to the words of the One who is the light of the world: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] The world is full of hurry and disappointment. The words are addressed to you, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” The words in favor of truth, spoken with the assurance that comes from the possession of a right purpose, and in cheerful hope, from a pure heart, will make the angels rejoice. When in the day of final awards the reward is given to each as his works have been, it is your privilege to have redeemed souls, whom you have been the means of helping, come to you, and say, “You lifted me out of discouragement.” And the Master will say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 70, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 70, 1908, par. 2
Neither of the brethren in charge of the churches in Alameda and Berkeley understands the needs of the church. I would be grateful to see the work being done for them that must be done if they are prepared to meet the Lord when He comes and hear from His lips the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] They must have an experience different from that which they have hitherto had. Self must be subdued by the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit; and this work will be accomplished for them if they will consecrate all their powers of mind and body to the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 69, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, par. 9
In the day of final award, two classes will stand before the Judge of all the earth. To those who have failed to walk in the footsteps of Christ, the words will be spoken: Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity. Those who have brought the pure, unadulterated truths of the word of God into the practical life will hear the benediction: “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] We can never enter the city of God until we have learned to die to self, and there dwells within the soul the Spirit of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 83, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, par. 19
There is a world to be saved, but it is represented to me that little is being done by those who claim to be the servants of God to win souls for eternal life. Did the Son of God spare Himself, and leave you to ruin? No; He gave up the glory that He had with the Father and gave His life that He might impart life to all. Let us consider Him as He bows in His last prayer to the Father for His disciples, pleading that they might be given grace to walk in His footsteps and continue the work He had begun. We have an eternity of blessings to win or to lose. It rests with us whether we shall hear the words spoken to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” or, “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” [Matthew 25:23; 7:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 15, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 15, 1912, par. 17
Shall we not come into right relation to God? Shall we not put away all strife, which is a manifestation of unconverted self? When you feel sore because you think that somebody else is getting ahead of you, take the matter to the Father in prayer. Ask Him to put the impress of His Spirit upon your mind and character. When you feel like complaining at your lot, look about for some soul who does not have all the blessings that you enjoy. Speak to him words of hope and comfort and encouragement. Such ministry will be a blessing to him and a greater blessing to yourself. We need to reach the place where as a people we shall reveal in word and work that the Spirit of God is dwelling within, that we are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. It is our privilege to make the battle of life easier for those with whom we associate. Shall we not endeavor to do this? If we will partake of Christ’s labors for the uplifting and redemption of souls, we shall hear His words of benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]That I May Know Him
A Constant Readiness, December 18
TMK 358.4
If the time seems long to wait for our Deliverer to come, if, bowed by affliction and worn with toil, we feel impatient for our commission to close, and to receive an honorable release from the warfare, let us remember—and let the remembrance check every murmur—that God leaves us on earth to encounter storms and conflicts, to perfect Christian character, to become better acquainted with God our Father and Christ our Elder Brother, and to do work for the Master in winning many souls to Christ, that with glad heart we may hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23).21The Review and Herald, October 25, 1881.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 90, 1911
25LtMs, Lt 90, 1911, par. 12
In this life we are called to endure test and trial, that God may prove our devotion to Him and our fitness for a place in His kingdom. Think of the sacrifice Christ made, the sufferings He endured to make it possible for us to have these privileges. In His life was given us an unerring pattern. To those who, recognizing the pattern, strive earnestly to follow it, the eternal reward is assured. Christ’s own hand will place the crown of glory on the heads of the faithful; His voice will bid them welcome to the everlasting kingdom, saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 17, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 17, 1911, par. 12
If you do this, fathers and mothers, it means that you must do more than order and direct as you shall feel inclined. You must wrestle for your children; nor can you afford to give up the battle for one hour, whatever may be your disappointments and trials. As the enemy worked to overcome the Saviour, so he will work with the human family today. But in every time of trial and difficulty, remember that Christ has passed through similar experiences, and He came out from every trial without a stain of sin upon His character. He came to show what every member of the human family may become through His grace. He understands every difficulty that we must meet, and He stands ready to strengthen those who struggle with Him against the powers of evil. He waits to hear and answer their prayers. When heaven is won, and we pass through the gates of the city of God to hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” [Matthew 25:23], how small will seem the trials and difficulties that have beset our pathway here.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 11, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 11, 1911, par. 14
When I thought this morning of coming to speak to you today, I felt that I could not do it. I feared that if I made the attempt I should fail. But then I thought, If I stay at home, I shall certainly fail. And the Lord is giving me strength to say a few words to you. Let me say: Jesus is your helper. No one understands so well as He your peculiarities of character. He is watching over you; and if you are willing to be taught, He will throw around you influences for good that will enable you to accomplish all His will for you. We are preparing for the future eternal life. Soon there is to be a grand review in which every soul who is seeking to perfect a Christian character must bear the test of God’s searching questions: Have you set an example that others were safe in following? Have you watched for souls as they that must give an account? The heavenly host are interested in the case of every student in the school, and they are intensely anxious that you should bear the test, and that to you shall be spoken the words of approval, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] You can have the joy of the Lord in this school—every one who will follow on to know the Lord, seeking Him earnestly in prayer.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Great Vendor of Spiritual Riches, July 21
JNN 215.3
Fidelity, thorough wholeness to God, is essential for every worker now if we would receive from Christ the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). The exhortation to Timothy from his father in the gospel was, “Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine” (1 Timothy 4:16). The great question is: How shall we meet the future? Our only safety is in doing our work for each day as it comes, working, watching, waiting, every moment relying on the strength of Him who was dead and who is alive again, who lives forevermore. Every step must be guarded; as we advance, our tread may be firm, and then we may move solidly onward and upward.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 57—“One Thing Thou Lackest”
DA 523.4
When Christ’s followers give back to the Lord His own, they are accumulating treasure which will be given to them when they shall hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” “Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Matthew 25:23; Hebrews 12:2. The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the reward of all that put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow Me.”This Day With God
Reward for Faithfulness, July 28
TDG 218.5
Christ has appointed to every man his work. The second death will be the portion of those who labor not, and the dreadful words will be heard, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:23). But the faithful servants will not lose their reward. They will gain eternal life, and the “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Chap. 25:23), will fall as sweetest music on their ears.—The Signs of the Times, July 28, 1887.Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
The Christian Life
1SAT 329.1
Christ gave His life for our children and for us, because He desired us to form characters after the divine similitude, that we may enter in through the gates into the holy city, and hear from the divine lips the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:23). Do you not want to hear these words? Strive with all the power God has given you to gain the crown of everlasting life, that you may cast it at the feet of the Redeemer, and touching the golden harp, fill all heaven with rich music. God help you to gain eternal life, that you may see His face.—Ms. 31, 1901. (MR 900.3)Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Danger in Self-Confidence
GW92 206.3
I have been shown that the reason why some cannot discern the right is that they have so long cherished the enemy, who has worked side by side with them while they have not discerned his power. It sometimes seems hard to wait patiently till God’s time comes to vindicate the right. But I have been shown that if we become impatient, we lose a rich reward. As faithful husbandmen in God’s great field, we must sow with tears, and be patient and hopeful. We must meet troubles and sorrows. Temptations and wearisome toil will afflict the soul, but we must patiently wait in faith to reap with joy. In the final victory, God will have no use for those persons who are nowhere to be found in time of peril and danger, when the strength, courage, and influence of all are required to make a charge upon the enemy. Those who stand like faithful soldiers to battle against wrong, and to vindicate the right, warring against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places, will each receive the commendation from the Master, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]—Testimonies for the Church 3:320.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
A Caution to the Wealthy
1TT 382.1
The length and happiness of life does not consist in the amount of our earthly possessions. This foolish rich man in his supreme selfishness had laid up for himself treasures that he could not use. He had lived only for himself. He had overreached in trade, had made sharp bargains, and had not exercised mercy or the love of God. He had robbed the fatherless and widow, and defrauded his fellow men, to add to his increasing stock of wordly possessions. He might have laid up his treasure in heaven in bags that wax not old; but through his covetousness he lost both worlds. Those who humbly use to the glory of God the means that He has entrusted to them will receive their treasure by and by from the Master’s hand with the benediction: “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.From Heaven With Love
Did Jesus Demand Too Much?
HLv 349.2
When Christ’s followers give back to the Lord His own, they are accumulating treasure which will be given to them when they hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23. The joy of seeing souls eternally saved is the reward of all who put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow Me.”From Splendor to Shadow
Chapter 10—The Voice of Stern Rebuke
SS 74.4
God calls for men who will do faithful battle against wrong, warring against spiritual wickedness in high places. To such He will speak the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23.Homeward Bound
Words of Approval, October 22
HB 323.1
Well done, good and faithful servant;. . . Enter into the joy of your lord.—Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 4, 1859
1LtMs, Lt 4, 1859, par. 10
Your life is not secure. Apply your means as you want it while you can. You may live to go through the time of trouble with the remnant, and you may be one of that number who are called blessed. “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord,” etc. [Revelation 14:13.] Your head is already white. You are ripening up for the great harvest. Act the part faithfully which God assigns you, that at His coming it may be said of you, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” etc. [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 19, 1860
1LtMs, Lt 19, 1860, par. 13
I saw that it was the duty of Brother Russ to arise, to manifest more industry and ambition in temporal matters and spiritual matters. Also, he too often shuns hardships, [and] takes things too easy. His wife has had a most discouraging influence upon him to destroy his ambition and courage. It is his duty to manifest more industry, more zeal in his business and in the cause of God, and not only sustain his family but have the privilege of giving more freely to the cause of Truth, that the great Master may at last say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 13, 1868
1LtMs, Ms 13, 1868, par. 42
Put on my cloak and hat and walked a short distance to Brother Guilford’s. Found people gathered together in two rooms. I spoke to them about one hour from these words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” etc. [Matthew 25:23.] All seemed interested. As soon as I ceased speaking I left the meeting and hurried to Brother Griggs’. Took dinner, and about two we stepped into the sleigh and were on our way back to Tuscola. When we were within a few miles of our stopping place, Brother Miller hailed us and urged us to go to his home, but we were very cold and he lived two miles farther than Brother Spooners. We stopped at the first place, which was brother Spooners’.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 27, 1868
1LtMs, Lt 27, 1868, par. 11
May God forgive your parents for the part they have acted in the past in making you what you are, for it will be like the gall of bitterness to them. Their misapplied affection has not increased your affection for them, but only directed your minds to yourselves—to please self, to esteem self, to display self. Your lives have not been a blessing to others; you have not been unselfishly seeking to make others happy, and bless others with your influence, and thus leave a bright track behind you. As your past life stands, Christ will not say, “Well done, good and faithful servants.” [Matthew 25:23.] You lack both goodness and faithfulness. Souls have been turned into the downward road through your influence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 25, 1868
1LtMs, Lt 25, 1868, par. 10
I hope you are all seeking to do just right. Edson, you know your Master’s will. Only do it, and you will have a conscience void of offense. Seek to exert an influence for good upon all with whom you associate. You are either gathering with Christ or scattering abroad. God help you to work the works of righteousness, that when the Master comes to reckon with His servants you may hear from His lips “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 11, 1868
1LtMs, Ms 11, 1868, par. 12
The truth received in the heart and carried out in the life will correct the erring. Let love, affection, tenderness abound in your heart. You possess fortitude, courage, firmness of purpose. You can, when you see the necessity, control your words. Study the effect of your words, whether their influence will be saving upon others. Never talk for the sake of talking, but for the edification of those who hear. Your heart has loved the truth and those who believed it. You are a lover of hospitality and these excellent traits qualify you to exert an influence that will be saving upon others, but for the lack named in this letter which counteracts it all and greatly injures your usefulness. I commit this to you in the fear of God, entreating you to lay these things to heart and bring forth fruits unto righteousness that at last you may hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] The Lord has blessed you with a kind, true, God-fearing husband to aid your efforts in the right direction.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Diligence and Consecration Needed
GW92 454.2
The educated man may exalt himself over his unlearned brother, but he is like the man in the parable who hid his talent in the earth. He has shunned the trouble and exertion necessary to trade with his intrusted talent, that he may be able to return it with increase; and he will be condemned as a slothful servant, and dismissed from the presence of his Lord. But the one who is faithful in the improvement of his talents will return both principal and interest, and will hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] The man who blesses society and makes a success of life, is the one, whether educated or uneducated, who uses all his powers in the service of God and his fellow-men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 2, 1862
1LtMs, Lt 2, 1862, par. 7
Only a few moments of probation remain, and then it closes and nothing can be done for poor sinners. Have you no warnings to give? No cry of danger to sound in their ears? No stirring appeals to make to perishing souls? Will it be said of Daniel Phillips, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:23.] No, no; [not] unless you move, unless you act your part well, pray earnestly, fervently, and exhort with the truth burning upon the altar of your heart.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 25:21
Letters to Physicians and Ministers
An Appeal for Greater Consecration
SpTB01 26.1
My brother, Christ loves you. He has shown you how much He loves you. I cannot find words to tell you how greatly you have disappointed Him in the past. You have allowed the enemy to sway you, first in one way and then in another, and the tempter has exulted as you have given way to his temptations. You must have an entirely different experience before Christ can say to you,” Well done, thou good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21. When you are thoroughly converted, you will be kept by the power of God from exhibiting the weak points in your character.Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Seeking Heavenly Treasures
1SAT 265.1
Here are the human beings. The probabilities and the possibilities are before them of working out a character for the future, immortal life, so that the Lord can say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things” [Matthew 25:21]. Oh, will not that fall on the ear like the sweetest music? “I was hungry, and ye fed me; I was sick and in prison, and ye visited me; I was naked, and ye clothed me.”The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 134—Love, the Need of the Church
1888 1093.2
What can Christ who is so forgiving, so patient with all our mistakes, so rich in mercy and love, think of our hard-hearted criticism and fault-finding? Love for your erring brethren will produce far greater effect in reforming them than all your harsh criticisms. Let all the faults and emotions of the heart be after Christ’s order. Let self be put out of sight. The Lord would have the thoughts and the language and the experience of Christian life far more attractive than it is today. If they are not more like Jesus they can never be the light of the world. Our work is between God and our own individual souls. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to be done in the saving of souls around you, and precious time is passing. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21)?The Review and Herald
February 13, 1913
RH February 13, 1913, par. 18
Teachers, what opportunities are yours! What a privilege is within your reach of molding the minds and characters of the youth under your charge! What a joy it will be to you to meet them around the great white throne, and to know that you have done what you could to fit them for immortality! If your work stands the test of the great day, like sweetest music will fall upon your ears the benediction of the Master, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Mother’s First Work
1TT 188.2
I have seen mothers of large families, who could not see the work that lay right in their pathway, just before them in their own families. They wanted to be missionaries and do some great work. They were looking out for themselves some high position, but neglecting to take care of the very work at home which the Lord had left for them to do. How important that the brain be clear! How important that the body be as free as possible from disease, in order that we may do the work which Heaven has left for us to do, and perform it in such a manner that the Master can say: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21. My sisters, do not despise the few things which the Lord has left for you to do. Let each day’s actions be such that in the day of final settlement of accounts you will not be ashamed to meet the record made by the recording angel.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Ministering to Others
1TT 464.1
God calls for those who are at ease in Zion to be up and doing. Will they not listen to the Master’s voice? He wants prayerful, faithful workers who will sow beside all waters. Those who labor thus will be surprised to find how trials, resolutely borne in the name and strength of Jesus, will give firmness to the faith and renew the courage. In the path of humble obedience is safety and power, comfort and hope; but the reward will finally be lost by those who do nothing for Jesus. Weak hands will be unable to cling to the Mighty One, feeble knees will fail to support in the day of adversity. Bible readers and Christian workers will receive the glorious prize, and hear the “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.From Trials to Triumph
When God’s People Will Be the Majority
TT 308.6
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. In this world they served God with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name “in their foreheads.” Christ welcomes them as His children, saying, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 898—Love, the Need of the Church
11MR 267.2
What can Christ who is so forgiving, so patient with all our mistakes, so rich in mercy and love, think of our hardhearted criticism and faultfinding? Love for your erring brethren will produce far greater effect in reforming them than all your harsh criticisms. Let all the faults and emotions of the heart be after Christ’s order. Let self be put out of sight. The Lord would have the thoughts and the language and the experience of Christian life far more attractive than it is today. If they are not more like Jesus they can never be the light of the world. Our work is between God and our own individual souls. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to be done in the saving of souls around you, and precious time is passing. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21)?From the Heart
The Promise Fulfilled, December 25
FH 371.1
Enter into the joy of your lord. Matthew 25:21.Radiant Religion
To Share with Christ the Joy in Redeemed Souls, December 8
RRe 344.1
His lord said unto him. Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Matthew 25:21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 17, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 17, 1872, par. 6
We all have an experience to gain and crosses to lift. If we study our own pleasure and gratify our own desires and taste, we shall be found wanting in the day of retribution and rewards. If we live to do others good and to glorify God, we shall not be considerate of ourselves but shall seek to be of use in the world, blessing humanity, and we shall receive the blessing of “Well done” from the lips of the Master. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1, 1870
2LtMs, Lt 1, 1870, par. 19
Oh, my brother, I beg of you, do not humor your wife’s penuriousness. This sin of covetousness is idolatry and is eating out her vitals. Her Christian character is very objectionable. She cannot discern Christian excellence. The truly righteous and the rebellious in the truth are about upon the same level with her. Sacred things are not discerned. Sacred and common things are upon the same level. She has never been truly converted, so that she can say, Old things have passed away; all things have become new. The things I once hated I now love, and the things I once loved I now hate. That transformation has never been experienced by your wife, which must be felt by her if she ever hears from the lips of the Master, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 27, 1871
2LtMs, Lt 27, 1871, par. 9
Long have the gates stood ajar for you, long has the heavenly light been shining upon your path. Let it not be slighted, but gather up its precious rays to reflect upon others. Jesus loves us and we should love one another. We should be meek and lowly, pure and undefiled, and if we are thus we shall meet the approval of God here, and the blessed “Well done” when the Master comes. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 21a, 1871
2LtMs, Lt 21a, 1871, par. 8
My son, God will require His own with usury. It is not our capital we are improving or abusing. It is the Lord’s, and we shall have to render a strict account of our stewardship. The light has shone upon you. Your privileges and opportunities have not been small. You know the right way. Do you inquire daily, “What shall I do to glorify God?” How stands your record in heaven? God will call the names of all, one by one, and how will you answer to your name? Will the Master say to you, Well done, good and faithful servant? Will He bid you enter into the joy of your Lord? [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 18, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 18, 1872, par. 25
Lay up, my dear children, for yourselves a treasure in the heavens. Crowd all the good works you can into your short lifetime. Let not a vestige of selfishness cling to your soul. Remember the life of Christ was free from every selfish act. He is our Pattern in all things. Don’t live for self; live to bless others, that finally when the Master shall appear He shall give you the gracious benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] Children, it pays to live for God and heaven. The wages are ample. “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God [is] eternal life.” [Romans 6:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 19d, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 19d, 1874, par. 18
They are the purchase of His blood, and when the ransomed shall be crowned with everlasting joy, we shall with them receive the benediction of “Well done,” and enter into the joy of our Lord. [Matthew 25:21.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 763—Ellen White and the Church in Adelaide, South Australia
9MR 344.2
There should be wise workmen in every church, workmen who seek God, that they may learn the best methods of labor for the tempted and tried and erring, so as not to lose one. It is verily a plan of Satan for our churches to be so inefficient and helpless, depending upon the minister to do the work which they should do, and which they must do, if ever they hear from the lips of Christ the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 23, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 23, 1874, par. 5
Noah fulfilled the will of God in bearing the message of warning to the inhabitants of the Noachic world, although but eight of all that lived in the world received the warning and were saved. The message of Noah condemned the world. God designs the warning to be given, that all may have an opportunity to accept, fear God, work righteousness, and be saved if they will. Jesus, the Saviour of the world, declares that the same unbelief will exist previous to the coming of the Son of man as prevailed before the flood. But this fact that moral darkness covers the earth and gross darkness covers the people will not change our course of duty in lifting up our voice in warning, showing the people their transgression and the house of Israel their sins. We are bearing the most solemn message that was ever given to the world. I have a part to act according to the light and ability God has given me. You have a part to act in letting your light shine forth to others. If you live only for yourselves, no “Well done” [Matthew 25:21] will await you. If I live for my own interest, no “Well done” will be spoken to me.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 24, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 24, 1874, par. 6
Those who have lived for others’ good and have had an eye single to the glory of God will win eternal life. Those who will not make exertion, but drift with the current, live for self. They will never hear the “Well done” [Matthew 25:21] spoken to them. We have something to do for the salvation of others. Precious souls are to be saved and we have a work to do to win them to Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 11, 1871
2LtMs, Lt 11, 1871, par. 11
The Master will say to every soul saved, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21. It is not enough even to be good yourselves; faithfulness to others as manifested in the life of Christ must characterize your life and deportment. Let your light shine to others. You must be light in the Lord yourself, and then reflect the light to others. You will both be without excuse. If you neglect the great salvation freely offered, and choose your own pleasure and follow the bent of your own mind, you will not only be weighed in the balance yourselves and found wanting, but your course will be a stumbling block to others. While you are serving yourselves, nor rendering God the heart’s best and holiest affections, your influence is aiding others to do the same. Not only do you by unfaithfulness shut the gate of heaven against yourselves, but you stand in the way of sinners and the blood of souls will be upon your garments. Children, it pays to serve God with the whole heart. A half a Christian is no Christian at all. He makes a profession; he takes the Christian name, but is deficient in the Christian graces; therefore [he] is a false representative of the Christian religion. The true witness address such, “I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” Revelation 3:15, 16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 19b, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 19b, 1874, par. 12
Children, let your light shine forth to others. If you live only for yourselves, the heavenly benediction of “Well done” [Matthew 25:21] will not be yours. We must not live for self, but to be a blessing to others. The heart unrefreshed with the dew and rain of heaven becomes distrustful, discontented. Both God’s mercies and judgments are alike misinterpreted and unimproved. There is not a walking in the light. He that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. He forgets that he is a steward of the grace of Christ. If we as a people have the truth, as we believe without a doubt we have, there is no time to be lost. We must work to get the message of warning before all we possibly can. Ministers have a work to do. Laymen cannot meet the accountability and be idle.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 23, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 23, 1875, par. 5
I hope you will not think you can go forward in your own strength, relying upon your own judgment. Seek wisdom from above. Be true, be noble in purpose. Be elevated in life, and may the God of peace sanctify you wholly, soul, body, and spirit. Do not cease searching and studying and getting at the very bottom of things. God will help you in all your earnest efforts, my dear children. If you both consecrate yourselves unselfishly to God and to His work, He will accept you. You will not have the reward here, but you must look for the reward by and by when the “Well done” is spoken by the Master. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 5, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 5, 1879, par. 10
When you are embarrassed, and an opportunity is presented to keep yourself from falling, you are still in danger of applying means not justly your own by retaining the wages of those who have worked for you. You should make it a practice to settle promptly with your workmen. By withholding their wages you put them to great inconvenience and cause them anxiety and fears to which they should not be subjected. Circumstances may make it necessary to do this sometimes, but put yourself to any and every inconvenience rather than to commit one wrong against those in your employ; and never be betrayed into withholding from workmen the full value of their services because it may be in your power to do so. The means they earn is not yours. You have their time; give them a full equivalent. Remember the woe pronounced upon all who do this. While you shall pursue a steady, undeviating course of integrity, connecting yourself with men who are connected with God, His hand will be over you for good, and He will open ways that your business may prove a success. But let not one stain, however slight, be attached to your name or to your character. Be right and do right; it will pay. Let your name be free from stain in the heavenly records, and you will at last have the “Well done” spoken to you by the Master. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 30, 1878
3LtMs, Lt 30, 1878, par. 6
I cannot write much news yet. I feel, deeply feel, the need of more of the grace of God. Edson, I wish to caution you about getting up a spirit of rivalry. God is using Willie, and He is pleased to use you. Work in perfect harmony in your different branches of the work, and let no spirit of jealousy or seeking for the supremacy come in. This is God’s work. It is His cause. In the meekness of Christ do your work with fidelity, that you may finally hear the “Well done” from the lips of the Master. [Matthew 25:21.] Do not weave self into anything that you do, but hide in Jesus, exalt Christ, and in the meekness of wisdom walk in the path the providence of God opens before you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 42a, 1878
3LtMs, Lt 42a, 1878, par. 7
We will press closer and still closer to the bleeding side of Jesus. We will do our work with fidelity. There is no relief in this war, but we will not get our eyes upon ourselves. Let our pens, our voices bring hope and good cheer to souls that need it so much. If we can lift up the bowed down, comfort the desponding, bring light to those who are in darkness, we are then doing the work God has given us, binding ourselves with cords of love to humanity and coming close to our brethren. This is God’s work we are doing. In it we will represent Jesus. Our words, our actions must be fragrant with the love of Jesus. If we fall at our post in faithful service, we shall receive the benediction from Jesus, “Well done.” [Matthew 25:21.] We have nothing, we are nothing, which we do not receive from Jesus. Our lives are not our own. Duties are coming to us from every point, and if imbued with the Spirit of the Master, we can do our work well. God bless you is my prayer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 28, 1880
3LtMs, Lt 28, 1880, par. 14
Let us crucify self at every point and lift up and magnify Jesus. We want no worldly honor. I care not for it. I want the “Well done” from the lips of my Redeemer to fall like music upon my ears. [Matthew 25:21.] For this I will labor. I will do right because I love the right. I will obey God at any cost to myself, and the crown will be given by and by.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Binding about the Work of God
1MR 91.1
We are all to be tested here in this life to prove whether, if admitted to heaven, we shall repeat the same course that Satan pursued there. But if the character which we develop during our probation is according to the divine Pattern, it qualifies us to receive the welcome, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant....enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21). But on the other hand, if men desire to be highly esteemed among men, if they are seeking for the highest positions, and demanding the highest remuneration they can obtain in this life, they will have just such characters in the future life. All heaven will pronounce them unfit for the kingdom, disqualified for any position of trust in the great work of God in the courts above. Our institutions are instrumentalities ordained of God, and the principles of equity, justice and righteousness must be maintained in them with fidelity. The work in which we are engaged must be done by men who are ordained of God as was Christ, to go forth with the spirit of sacrifice for the salvation of a lost world. This is the spirit that should characterize medical missionary work anywhere and everywhere....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 46, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 46, 1886, par. 18
I would entreat those here to think of these things. Go to work for the Master. Take the Lord with you, and then you will hear from the lips of the Master, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.] Heaven, sweet heaven of rest! It is then that we shall cast our glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus and touch our harps and sing the song, “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that died for us.” I see in Him matchless charms. I want all to have a part and share in the eternal weight of glory and to sing songs of rejoicing throughout the endless ages of eternity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 53, 1884
4LtMs, Lt 53, 1884, par. 19
We awoke this morning with heavy thunder and vivid lightening. It is now nine o’clock and the storm continues. The dust will be laid and we shall, I think, have a pleasant journey. I think of you all, every one—Mother Kelsey, Anna, and little Ella May [White] comes in for a large share of tender love and thoughts. I see Marian at work, so busy. God bless the dear child. To me she is as precious as gold. I appreciate Eliza’s work above gold, and Mary, my faithful daughter. Mary her price is above rubies. May the Lord deal very tenderly with my precious Mary is my heart’s wish and earnest prayer. Willie, I think of you so much, steady, earnest, constantly at work. God sees it all and will by and by say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 2, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 11
You have but a little time. The judgment is to sit, the books to be opened, and every man to be judged according to what is written in the book; and how stands the record? Have you been trying to maintain a dignity? Have you been trying to fasten the attention of people to you? or have you been seeking to follow Jesus, to walk before Him in similitude of mind? Have you felt that God has given you talents of importance? and those talents are not to remain just as He gave them to you? They are to be improved. One has ability to take care of a farm, the merchant has ability to take care of merchandise; and is it to that which will be said, “Well done”? [Matthew 25:21.] It is if he conduces his business on the strict rule of honesty and right. Then they will earn the “Well done” from the Master, but is it to end there? No, there is a greater work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 15, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 15, 1885, par. 15
Through evil as well as good report, let there be efforts made by every laborer in the vineyard of the Lord to encourage and educate the indolent, those who lift no responsibilities. Teach them they must work to strengthen the church. A working church will be a living church. The do-nothings are those who block the wheels of progress. They are not building up, but their influence is tearing down. Let efforts be made to train up young converts to work with an eye single to the glory of God. Urge those who feel at ease to do something to show earnest, zealous effort in advancing light. Then Jesus will come into our midst and will be to us a tower of strength. The church will grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth, and every true, earnest, unselfish worker will hear the “Well done” from the lips of the Master. [Matthew 25:21.] There is no mistake made. To those who have well done will the words be spoken, and to no other.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 25, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 25, 1886, par. 7
I am so glad that you feel encouragement in your labors. I hope you will see still greater tokens of the manifest power and blessings of God. He does not want His workers to labor under a cloud of discouragement. You are not to look at your infirmities and failings in the past, but look to Jesus who is willing to save to the uttermost all who believe in Him. Our warfare here will soon be ended; and if we shall trust God fully, we shall receive the “well done,” the heavenly benediction from the lips of the Master. [Matthew 25:21.] Work on in faith. Look up and not down, and Jesus will be the health of your countenance and your God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 115, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 115, 1886, par. 4
Jesus left the heavenly courts and came to our world. The Just gave His life for the unjust, and what are we willing to do for Him? What spirit will we manifest for those who need help? Will there not be those who will go without the camp, bearing reproach for Jesus? Are there not men and women of earnest faith who can endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ, who will be laborers together with God, who will labor unselfishly for the Master? Who will take up this work of denying self, to seek and save that which was lost? What are our brethren and sisters doing at this time? God help them to awake, for Christ is coming with power and great glory. Who will hear the commendation, “Thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 104, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 104, 1886, par. 2
The work is great and more and more solemn as we near the close of time. I want to do my work well, else I shall not hear the “Well done” from the Master. [Matthew 25:21.] I see these large cities like Copenhagen full of pleasure seeking and merriment. If we had a little of that [which] has been used in pleasing self, we might find so many places for to use it. I think of my carriage in Battle Creek. I wish it could be sold. I wish you would speak to Henry Kellogg about it. I feel that I need it—the means might go to paying my debt at the Review office. I see the statement of accounts showing your financial standing has come. There is a little advance which is good, but I wish it were better. I hope, my dear son, you will not become encouraged as you see that you improve a little and will launch out to go into new enterprises and obtain credit to invest more means. You have passed over this ground so often to afterwards feel the biting sting of financial pressure that I hope your lesson is learned not to have imaginary wants and let your imagination see a large field. You can manage, and all requires means. Bind about your desires. Work to the one point to become a free man. But Satan watches you with vigilance as he sees you making any success toward freedom. Then he has another pleasing, attractive scheme which will be presented, which he flatters you will only cost a limited sum to be invested which is like the thousand-dollar hand irons, requiring more and still more invested.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 19a, 1884
4LtMs, Lt 19a, 1884, par. 17
We need now men who are acquainted with Jesus, men of faith, men of experience, men who will work for souls as they that must give an account. We have speakers but very few laborers. Teach the members of the church to be workers. Oh, that God would let His convicting, converting power come upon Sabbathkeepers, for many of them by experience know not if there be any Holy Ghost. Self has filled so large a place in their experience they know but little else than its gratification. May the Lord help us to do work—close, faithful, efficient work—for the Master, for all our work will bear the inspection of the Chief Shepherd. He will understand just how we have done our work. He will say, “Well done,” only to those who have done well. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 62, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 62, 1886, par. 6
I would so love to be in America again, but I do not care to go until my work here is done. If I know my own heart, it is to do the will of God to the very letter. I am willing to be a pilgrim and a stranger here, for I am seeking a city whose builder and maker is God. It is only for a little while that we shall have to work, and we want to do our work with diligence. We want to make sure of eternal life. We do not want to follow our inclinations or our pleasure, but just do the will of God and wait for His salvation and the final reward. I have peace and joy in my Saviour. I am looking to the great beyond; and if the Master says, “Well done” [Matthew 25:21], I shall be entirely satisfied. I love Jesus, I love to do His will. I ask not position or honor or ease or convenience. I want to labor together with God, practicing self-denial and self-sacrifice and be a partaker with Christ of His sufferings, that I may be a partaker with Him of His glory.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
MR No. 55—The Spirit that Should Characterize the Work of Seventh-day Adventist Physicians
1MR 201.1
He who is selfish and grasping, eager to take every dollar he can get from our institutions for his services, is binding about the work of God; verily he has his reward. He cannot be accounted worthy to be entrusted with the eternal, heavenly reward in the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who deny self and take up the cross and follow Him. The fitness of men to enter the blood-bought inheritance is tested during this probationary life. Those who have the spirit of self-sacrifice manifested in Christ, when He gave Himself for the salvation of fallen man, are those who will drink of the cup and be baptized with the baptism, and they will share in the glory of the Redeemer. Those who make it evident that the love of Christ controls their spirit and actuates their service, will be deemed fit subjects for the family above. We are all to be tested here in this life to prove whether, if admitted to heaven, we shall repeat the same course that Satan pursued there. But if the character which we develop during our probation is according to the divine Pattern, it qualifies us to receive the welcome, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:21). But on the other hand, if men desire to be highly esteemed among men, if they are seeking for the highest positions, and demanding the highest remuneration they can obtain in this life, they will have just such characters in the future life. All heaven will pronounce them unfit for the kingdom, disqualified for any position of trust in the great work of God in the courts above. Our institutions are instrumentalities ordained of God, and the principles of equity, justice and righteousness must be maintained in them with fidelity. The work in which we are engaged must be done by men who are ordained of God as was Christ, to go forth with the spirit of sacrifice for the salvation of a lost world. This is the spirit that should characterize medical missionary work anywhere and everywhere.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 88, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 88, 1886, par. 13
Take up your neglected duties in the name and through the strength of Christ, and you will do a work that will be written in the immortal records of heaven. You may bring your children to Him who has purchased them with His own blood and hear the glad words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant,” from the lips of the divine Master. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 31, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 31, 1888, par. 21
If you are a blessing to one or two, leading them to piety and devotion and energy in the cause of God, these will in their turn be a blessing to others, and they will be a blessing to still others. “I will make all the places round about a blessing.” [Ezekiel 34:26.] Your light is to be far-reaching. You are God’s hired servants to give time, thought, tact to God’s work, if you expect wages of eternal life. Talk the Bible truth, live the Bible truth, and then when Jesus comes, the “Well done” will be spoken to you. [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 29, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 29, 1889, par. 21
When you assemble together, do not dishonor God by criticizing the worshippers and picking flaws in the characters of your brethren. Your work is between God and your own individual soul. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to do in the saving of souls around you, and precious time is passing. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:21.] Remember that every soul making efforts in the divine life finds every inch of ground disputed by an antagonistic force and [that] he must gird himself for the conflict by earnest prayer and fight the good fight of faith. He is called to “wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] There is no strength to be invested in warring against each other. If individually we make progress in spirituality, the loins must be girt about with truth, we must have on the breastplate of righteousness, we must take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. Brethren, seek God. “Seek Him while He is to be found, call upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 4, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 71
When the message of God meets with opposition, He gives it additional force that it may exert greater influence. Endowed with vital, heavenly energy, it will cut its way through the thickest barriers, dispel darkness, refute error, gain conquests, and triumph over every obstacle. I speak that [which] I do know. I testify of that which I have seen. Those who would triumph in the truth will have to act a part in the sight of the universe which will bring to them the reward of “Well done.” [Matthew 25:21.] They will be known as “laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 23, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 23, 1890, par. 49
You have not been a co-worker with Christ or with your brethren in saving the precious souls so dear to the heart of Jesus. Except [for] a few favorites, you have been cold, impatient, unsympathetic, unloving toward the flock of God. Oh, God requires of you altogether a different kind of labor, if you hope to receive by and by, the heavenly benediction, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 42, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 42, 1890, par. 15
It is now about six o’clock, our prayer hour in the morning. I assure you I have a deep desire that you may be victorious, and hear the heavenly benediction, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1008—A Call to Awake
13MR 47.2
Christ’s commission to His first disciples is the great missionary charter of the gospel. If His followers would fulfill their mission, they would have the reward of His approval. To them would be spoken the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” [Matthew 25:21]. And this commission His followers today are ever to hold sacred, and to work out in their experience. In following Christ’s example and in bringing into their life practice the principles that He laid down for the work of the first disciples, they, like them, are to make His name a praise in the earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 22, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 22, 1890, par. 43
It is not sharp reprimands that will keep your workers in the right path. It is the influence of a straightforward, just, unselfish management, that which heaven can commend as “good and faithful.” [Matthew 25:21.] This will bring heavenly angels to the side of the managers, and God will work for the souls He has purchased at an infinite cost. But if the managers reveal a sharp, grasping spirit in dealing with the workers, if they have no more care than to see how much of the value of brain, bone, and muscle they can extort for the least wages, God writes them in His book as unfaithful stewards of sacred trusts, unfaithful to the bodies and souls of those whom Christ values at the price He paid for them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 1a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 1a, 1890, par. 28
Stand back, brethren, do not lay responsibilities upon Elder Daniels now. He is not ready for them and will not be until he knows something for certain. Leave him to pray and search his heart until the darkness passes away and the true light shines. Then he will know what God would have him to be. Do you think, brethren in Fresno, or does Eld. Daniels imagine, that it is a small offense to prove false to sacred obligations? Shall the man who perverts his abilities and uses his influence as unwisely as Eld. Daniels has done be placed in a position of sacred, holy trust? God forbid! He has robbed God in not putting to the very best use all his blood-bought powers. Shall he be guiltless who misuses and misapplies talents lent him of God to be improved to the utmost? Surely that God who will judge the world in righteousness, and with a rigorous impartiality, demands His own with usury. How can He say to Elder Daniels, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:21.] Condemnation will be passed on every one who has wasted his Lord’s substance.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 28, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 28, 1890, par. 18
My sister, you may be bound about with poverty, your lot in life may be humble, but Jesus does not forsake you because of this, neither does He lead you to forsake your family for this or for any other cause. God has made you a trustee, a steward in your home; seek to educate yourself for this work, and He will be by your side to bless all your endeavors, that by and by, when the reckoning time for the administration of your trust <shall come,> He may say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 7, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 7, 1892, par. 10
There should be wise workmen in every church. Workmen who seek God as to the best methods of saving the tempted, the tried, the erring, so as to lose not one. It is verily a plan of Satan for our churches to be so inefficient and helpless, depending upon the minister to do the work which they should do, and which they must do if they ever receive the words from the lips of Christ, “Well done thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1892, par. 21
The Lord would have the thoughts and the language and the experience of Christian life far more attractive then it is today. If they are not more like Jesus they can never be the light of the world. Our work is between God and our own individual souls. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to be done in the saving of souls around you, and precious time is passing. Souls are going to ruin while Satan prompts to fault-finding among ourselves. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 1, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 25
“Put on,” says the apostle, “the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:11, 12.] How are we ever going to stand against these? It is the power of hell that we are to meet. And how are we to stand? You must take hold from above, and labor as did Christ, and have the self-sacrifice that He had. Then what does Christ say to these? Open the gates of the city of God that those who have kept My truth may enter in. Then He invites them to enter into what? “The joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] What is that? Who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works? Then what is the joy of the Lord? To see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 12, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 12, 1892, par. 20
One may say, I have no opportunity to obtain money, but I will set apart myself. I will educate and train myself that no opportunity shall be allowed to pass unimproved. I have always kept myself busy, but after all I have not felt a satisfaction in the way my time has been occupied. I see now, as never before, that very much of my time has been employed in doing nothing but those things that pleased myself. Now I desire to please God, and I will give a portion of my time in doing real service for the Master. I will visit the sick, I will train myself to have an interest and sympathy for the suffering ones, and I will add, if possible, some favors to make them more comfortable. Through this means I can reach their hearts and speak a word as the servant of Jesus Christ. Thus I can cultivate the art of ministering and may win souls to Jesus. Can you not see that Jesus will say, “Well done” to this line of ministry? [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 25, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 25, 1892, par. 38
Those who vindicate one school of medicine, and bitterly condemn another, are actuated by a zeal that is not according to knowledge. With Pharisaic pride, some men look down upon others who have not received a diploma from the so-called standard school. All this proves that there are men that cannot see afar off, and have forgotten that they were purged from their old sins. They need to humble themselves before the cross of Calvary. This spirit of pride will never be acknowledged in heaven, nor will men who cherish it, receive the heavenly benediction, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 17a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 17a, 1893, par. 13
There are many ways in which the youth can be putting to usury the talents entrusted to them of God, to build up the work and cause of God, not to please themselves but to glorify God. The Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, made the infinite sacrifice in coming to our world in order that He might elevate and ennoble humanity. He was a persevering, diligent worker. We read, He “went about doing good.” [Acts 10:38.] Is not this the work that every youth should be seeking to do, working in Christ’s lines? You have Christ’s help. The ideas of the students will broaden. They will be far-reaching, and the powers of usefulness even in your student’s life will be continually growing. The arms, the hands, which God has given, are to be used in doing good which shall bear the signet of heaven, that you can at last hear the “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 59, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 59, 1893, par. 12
O! how much robbery has been committed against God by the human calculation of misused goods! Christ the great Shepherd laid down His life for His sheep; He calleth them all by name. Every human is called to give an account of his entrusted talents: He came to him who had doubled his number, [when it] was put out to the exchangers, “Well done,” is the commendation, “enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” [Matthew 25:21]—his own character is opened to them.