EGW WritingsMatthew 25
Ellen G. White · Page 4 of 6
Read Matthew 25 in the BibleMatthew 25:23-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 14, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 14, 1891, par. 5
The youth must take heed what they read, as well as what they hear. I have been shown that they are exposed to the greatest peril of being corrupted by improper reading. Could a large share of the books published be consumed, a plague would be stayed that is doing a fearful work upon human minds and corrupting human hearts. Satan is constantly seeking to lead both the youth and those of mature age to be charmed with feeble stories. None are so confirmed in right principles, so secure from temptation, that they can feel safe and think no one need feel anxious about them. Resolutely discard all this trashy reading, which will not increase your spirituality, but will introduce into your minds sentiments that captivate the imagination so that you think less of Jesus and dwell less upon His precious lessons. If you are a learner in His school, you will become like Him and will overcome the manifold temptations as He overcame them. What a joy has Jesus in placing the crown upon the heads of those whom His lips can pronounce “good and faithful servants.” [Matthew 25:23.] They have resisted the blandishments of vice. They are victors.7LtMs, Ms 14, 1891, par. 14
Now, if all will go to work unselfishly, with an eye single to the glory of God, humbling their hearts and repenting of their sins, God will work in their behalf. Souls will be converted, and the piety and devotion of the workers will be felt by unbelievers. The only security against failure is to be found in entire surrender to God, daily seeking His counsel, in all things keeping the light burning, and daily reflecting its bright rays to others. Let a work of reformation, deep and thorough, take place in the office. Let there be seen a work of self-sacrifice. Expend your means carefully. Cultivate economy. Do not act toward Christ as though you believed the wicked accusations of the unfaithful servant, “I know thee, that thou art an austere man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou has not strewed.” [Matthew 25:24.] As you look to the cross of Calvary, inquire, “How can I work for the Master?” Do not calculate how little you can do to reach the very lowest standard, but arouse to grasp the fullness that there is in Christ, that you may do much for Him.Matthew 25:23-26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 110, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 14
Fathers, mothers, do you not desire to have the help that these angels are ready to give you? Realize that unless you take special pains to glorify the God of heaven, unless you keep Him exalted before your children, the laxness of your Christian life will be reflected in the lives of your children. If your discipline be loose, their character building will be defective in consequence of your neglect. You cannot afford this. You cannot afford to come up to the judgment, there to hear the words, “Neglectful servant.” [Matthew 25:26.] You cannot afford to fail of bringing your children up to the gate of the heavenly city, with the words, “Here am I, Lord, and the children which Thou gavest me.” [Hebrews 2:13.]19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 67
I sound the note of warning to you today. Get ready; get ready! For two months, excepting two or three nights, I have lain upon my bed at night, unable to sleep past twelve o’clock; and I have pled with God in the night season to arouse our people to take hold of matters understandingly and to act their part faithfully. The world is to be warned! To those who are faithful during the closing work of the message will be given an abundant entrance through the pearly gates into the city of God; and there every one will be greeted with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] A glittering crown will be placed upon every brow, a golden harp in every hand. With strains of sweetest music the redeemed will unite in ascribing praise and thanksgiving to Christ. The language of every heart will be, “Worthy, worthy, worthy is the Lamb, who gave His life for me.” [See Revelation 5:12.]Matthew 25:23-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 36, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 7
Very many who claim to be Christians act as if they were in this world merely to please themselves. They forget that Jesus, their pattern, pleased not Himself. They forget that the self-denial and self-sacrifice that characterized His life must characterize their lives, else in the day of God they will be found wanting and will hear from His lips the irrevocable sentence, “Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth!” [Matthew 25:30.] Fearful sentence! Let every professing Christian, by zealous activity in the Master’s cause, seek to avert this fearful doom.17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 17
We are not to think that in these last days we shall not pass through experiences similar to those through which Paul passed. Those who have the mind of Christ do not avoid difficulties. For His sake they go without the camp, bearing reproach and enduring hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. They fight manfully for truth in places where the conflict is most trying. They labor in the closest sympathy with Him who came to seek and to save the lost; and they become trees of righteousness. Goodness and faithfulness is the fruit they bear. To every such worker Christ will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Matthew 25:23-33
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 29, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 29, 1897, par. 8
Time is golden. We are to be wise in employing our time and talents to the very best purpose. My dear nephew, you are acquainted with individuals whose minds are stored with knowledge of various kinds, politics, history, theology. They have gathered up an accumulation of learning, and this is massed together in a mind that is not under the sanctifying influence of grace. They do not co-operate with God to bring this mass of matter into appropriate action. Therefore they continually lose time by devoting it to matters that bring no satisfactory returns. Should the life of these men cease now, they would never hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]12LtMs, Lt 29, 1897, par. 27
“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, 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 his goats; and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, and the goats on his left hand.” [Matthew 25:31-33.] Then will be decided the destiny of every soul. All judgment is committed into the hands of the Son of God.Matthew 25:23-34
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 95, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 95, 1901, par. 2
It would not be for the best for us to connect in my work. Your letter utterly forbids any partnership. I had hoped that for your sake this connection might be made. I see that you are not long for this life, and I want you to realize that to a large degree you have brought your trouble upon yourself by your lack of spiritual power. You are full of criticism, full of self-exaltation. Unless you humble yourself before God, you will never hear the benediction, “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.]16LtMs, Lt 95, 1901, par. 25
A professed Christian died, and his death was spoken of as though it were well with him. But one came to the front and said very solemnly, “We must enter heaven while living upon this earth, or we can never enter the city of God. The character formed here must be after the likeness of Christ’s character, or we can never hear the welcome, ‘Come, thou blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the earth.’ [Matthew 25:34.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 51, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 51, 1889, par. 5
What greater honor can come to any mortal than to do his work on the earth in such a manner that the welcome of Christ shall greet him as he enters the heavenly city, and the benediction from the lips of Christ is heard—“Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” Matthew 25:34, 23. Everything in this life that has any worldly attraction sinks into insignificance in comparison with the honor and privilege of having our names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.Matthew 25:23-40
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 83, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 83, 1896, par. 17
It is an offense to God that His work should be restricted by human beings. The Word of the living God, appealing to sanctified reason, will never give the work such an impress as is now revealed. There has been deceit, falsehood, artifice, selfishness. Schemes have been set on foot to rob God and to rob man, in order to make up to the work for what selfish devices have <abstracted.> The very position you have taken with these men in concocting plans to relieve the financial embarrassment has made you, in some respects, a weak man. It has warped your judgment. You have been led to survey justice, to depart from honesty in business dealing with your brethren. A wrong against the weakest or most erring of his flock is even more offensive to God than if it were against the strongest one among you. Souls are the Lord’s purchased possession, and every injustice done “unto the least of these my brethren” said Jesus, is done “unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] The Lord will not suffer injustice or oppression to go unreproved.11LtMs, Lt 83, 1896, par. 27
Your example has influenced Brother C. H. Jones in his dealing with authors. In both houses a course has been pursued that is not fair and noble. Such work should be corrected as soon as possible, if you and he desire the Lord to write in regard to your transactions, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] You will be ashamed to meet your present record in the books that shall be opened when the judgment shall sit, and every man shall be judged according to his works, whether they be good or whether they be evil. Better, far better that the work be done with love and justice blended.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 40, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 40, 1899, par. 3
This is to be our watchword. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] And if we faithfully carry it into our daily lives, we shall hear the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.] Will it pay to endure, as a Christian, the tests and trials of God?Matthew 25:23-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 101, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 21
All who are guided by heavenly wisdom will manifest a heavenly spirit. O, when will those who profess Christ put on Christ? When will they work as true medical missionaries? Into the practical, everyday life Christ’s followers must bring His tenderness and lovingkindness. Stop right where you are, my brother, in your close, hard dealing. Remember that your every action is recorded in the books of heaven. Every day your character is photographed by the heavenly artist. Every action of oppression and fraud, and every action of love and tenderness, is faithfully reproduced. At the last great day, to everyone before Him, Christ will say, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,” or, “Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” [Matthew 25:40, 45.]16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 24
No one has any reason to expect acceptance of Christ in others any further than he himself reveals Christ’s likeness. When Christ abides in the soul, the temper is sweetened and the voice controlled. The words spoken are comforting and encouraging. The truth is uttered in love. Then does the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Verse 23.]Matthew 25:24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 14, 1885
4LtMs, Lt 14, 1885, par. 20
Do all things without murmurings and disputings, without grumbling, without envy. Do not repeat or believe the old slander that the man of one talent brought against God, “I knew thee that thou were an austere man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strewed.” [Matthew 25:24.] This parable represented the many professors of religion who gauged their piety to reach the lowest standard possible and escape perdition.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 66, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 66, 1893, par. 3
He takes up my statement that man must cooperate with God in his salvation. [He believes] that man is a machine, that God does everything, and man has to do just what God set his limit that he shall do, and he asked, Do you think that Adam and Eve could have not eaten of the tree of knowledge? Certainly, I answered, if they were not in possession of a will to refuse, a will to obey God’s expressed injunction, then the Lord is just that character Satan represents Him to be, and the slothful servant is justified in saying, “I knew thee, that thou wast a hard man reaping what thou hast not sown and gathering where thou hast not strawed.” [Matthew 25:24.] I said, “That is not the God I serve, for the God I serve is represented by Jesus Christ. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Our God placed Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden and gave them one test of character that they were prohibited from eating from the tree of knowledge. If they eat they should die; and then must any rational mind suppose our God gave them no power to resist Satan’s temptation, but Himself moved them as irresponsible beings to disobey His commands, which opened floodgates of woe to the world. This is not the God I serve.” Well, such questions I never had to answer before.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 21, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 21, 1897, par. 11
According to the gifts received must be the gifts returned. All should do what they can, cheerfully, willingly, as doing service to God. Thus they improve their power to do, and go on from strength to strength. These receive God’s approval. But those who are slothful not only neglect the opportunity of doing the work appointed them, but through their neglect they become hindrances to others. They are channels of darkness, through which Satan works. He pours into hearts and minds the grievances he supposes he has against God. Inspired by Satan, the slothful, indolent, complaining servant says to God, “I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed.” [Matthew 25:24.]Matthew 25:24-25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 110, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 110, 1899, par. 12
The man who hid his talent in the earth, because he did not want his lord to have the use of it, would not have borne the test any better, had he been given five or ten talents. He would have bound up his means so that his lord could not be benefited by them. How many feel just as that man did? When the lord required his own from him, with the increase that the one talent should have gained, he said, “I knew thee, that thou wast an hard man, reaping where thou hast not strewed, and gathering where thou has not sown; and I was afraid.” [Matthew 25:24, 25.] The lord repeated his words, asking him why, if he knew he was so exacting in making his terms, he did not use his talent so that he could have brought in double through its use.From the Heart
The Unfaithful Servant, April 14
FH 116.1
Then he who had received the one talent came and said, “Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground.” Matthew 25:24, 25.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 7, 1866
1LtMs, Ms 7, 1866, par. 4
The work of overcoming Sister Wicks knows but very little about, and when Brother Wicks transferred his stewardship to his wife, he took a similar course to the man to whom was committed the one talent [and] who hid it in the earth. When God called him to account [he] excused himself with saying, “Lord, I knew thee that thou art a 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.” Matthew 25:24, 25. What the man with the talent was afraid of was that all the improvement of his talent would be required of God. This led him to pronounce God a hard man. And in order to keep from God that improvement which God required of him, he hid his talent lest God should be benefited with it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 29, 1868
1LtMs, Lt 29, 1868, par. 4
The work of overcoming Sister Wicks knows but very little about, and when Brother Wicks transferred his stewardship to his wife, he took a similar course to the man to whom was committed the one talent and he hid it in the earth, and when God called him to account, excused himself by saying, “Lord, I knew thee that thou art a 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.” [Matthew 25:24, 25.] What the man with the talent was afraid of was that all the improvement of his talent would be required of God. This led him to pronounce God a hard man, and in order to keep from God that improvement which He required of him, he hid it in the earth, lest God should be benefited with it.Matthew 25:24-29
The Upward Look
True Soldiers of Christ, August 4
UL 230.4
To every man in service is given his work, and no excuse can be accepted why that God-given work is not done. Some are negligent and indolent. Some are slothful servants like the man who had one talent entrusted to use and improve, but ... buried it in the earth and made no use of it. When his talent was called for, to be rendered back to God, the Owner, he had only the one unused talent. No one was improved by his entrusted gift. The least he could have done was to use it to the best of his ability, but he handed it back with a complaint against God: “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” (Matthew 25:24, 25). The Lord repeated His words, “Thou knewest.” The fact was he had not a knowledge of God and His works and His ways and His mercy and His kindness in giving an opportunity to improve the entrusted gift. The word is, “Take ... the talent from him, and give it unto him that hath ten talents. For unto everyone that hath shall be given, ... but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath” (verses 28, 29).—Manuscript 98, August 4, 1900, “True Soldiers of Christ.”Matthew 25:24-30
Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 13—Should Christians Be Members of Secret Societies?
2SM 133.1
The Lord had entrusted to the unfaithful servant not a large capital, but only one talent. That one talent the man did not invest for the interest of God; he hid it in the earth, complaining that the Lord was a hard Master, reaping where He had not sown, and gathering where He had not strown. The selfishness he manifested, and the complaints he made, as though God would require of him that which He had no right to claim, showed that he did not know God, or Jesus Christ, whom He had sent. Everything he possessed was the Lord’s own property, and was entrusted to him to use for God. When he says, “I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth” (Matthew 25:25), he acknowledged that the talent was from God.2SM 133.2
And what saith the Lord?—“Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed” (Matthew 25:26). Here He repeats the servant’s words, not acknowledging their truth, but showing what, even according to his own account, the servant ought to have done. The Lord virtually says: “You made no effort to trade upon My entrusted capital, and to gain an increase to promote My glory in the earth. “Thou oughtest ... to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not [traded on his Lord’s goods] shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness” (Matthew 25:27-30). To every soul to whom the light of truth has come is this lesson given.2SM 134.3
They say: “I have nothing to give to this enterprise; for I shall receive no returns. In paying to the lodge, I am providing for the future, and, besides this, I must bear my share of expense for the entertainments that gratify my taste. I cannot give up these enjoyments. Why does the church look to me to help meet these constantly recurring demands? ‘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’ [Matthew 25:24, 25], expecting that some time I would be benefited by it.”Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 1, 1869
2SAT 9.4
“I knew thee that thou art a hard man,” said the unprofitable servant, “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” [Matthew 25:24, 25]. The sentence passed upon him was, “Take ye the unprofitable servant, and bind him hand and foot, and cast him into outer darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [See verses 29, 30.] This will be the portion of many professing Christians at the present day unless they arouse and work mightily to redeem the time.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 1, 1869
2LtMs, Ms 1, 1869, par. 26
All who profess to be children of God should be missionaries. You ought to be working in the Master’s vineyard. To one is committed five talents, to another two, and to another one. And every one is accountable to God for these gifts. Your talents are committed to you to be improved, and unless you trade upon these talents, unless you are faithful to your trust, your fate will be similar to that of the man who hid his Lord’s money in the earth. “I knew that thou wast an austere man,” said the unprofitable servant, “reaping where thou hast not sowed, and gathering where thou hast not strawed, and I was afraid, and hid thy money in the earth; lo, there thou hast that is thine.” The sentence passed upon him was, “Take ye the unprofitable servant, and bind him hand and foot, and cast him into outer darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 25:24, 25, 30.] This will be the portion of many professing Christians at the present day unless they arouse, and work mightily to redeem the time.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 53, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 37
The Lord had entrusted to the unfaithful servant not a large capital, but only one talent. That one talent the man did not invest for the interest of God; he hid it in the earth, complaining that the Lord is a hard master, reaping where he had not sown, and gathering where he had not strawed. The selfishness he manifested, and the complaints he made, as though God would require of him that which he had no right to claim, showed that he did not know God, or Jesus Christ whom He had sent. Everything he possessed was the Lord’s own property, and was entrusted to him to use for God. When he says, “I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth,” he acknowledged that the talent was from God. And what saith the Lord? “Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reaped where I sowed not, and gathered where I had not strawed.” [Matthew 25:25, 26.] Here he repeats the servant’s words, not acknowledging their truth, but showing what, even according to his own account, the servant ought to have done.9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 38
The Lord virtually says, You made no effort to trade upon My entrusted capital and to gain an increase to promote My glory in the earth. “Thou oughtest to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not” (traded on his Lord’s goods) “shall be taken away even that which he hath. And take ye the unprofitable servant, and cast him into outer darkness.” [Verses 27-30.] To every soul to whom the light of truth has come is this lesson given.9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 41
They are blinded by the god of the world. They say: “I have nothing to give to this enterprise; shall receive no returns. In paying to the lodge, I am providing for the future; and besides this, I must bear my share of expense for the entertainments that gratify my taste. I cannot give up these enjoyments. Why does the church look to me to help meet these constantly recurring demands? ‘Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strewn: and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth,’ expecting that sometime I would be benefited by it.” [Verses 24, 25.]Matthew 25:24-36
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 6, 1878
3LtMs, Ms 6, 1878, par. 3
These selfish ones hide their Lord’s money in the world. Some entrust it to sharpers, risking the chance of losing it altogether, rather than to let the cause of God be benefited by its use, but they seldom feel that they must render to God an account of thus robbing His treasury. As the man was dealt with who hid his talent away in the earth, so will be their retribution. “Thou oughtest to have put My money (not yours) to the exchangers, and then at My coming I should have received Mine own with usury.” Matthew 25:27. That money wisely handled, invested in the work of the Lord, would have the blessing of God attending it and marked would have been the results. Our Saviour has presented before us this forcible illustration of that unfaithful steward that we may be benefited by the lesson and not repeat the mistake of the man who hid his talent that God might not be benefited with its use. Matthew 25:24-36.Matthew 25:24-46
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 9, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 5
This man cast down his entrusted gift before the Lord, saying, “Lord, I know 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.” [Matthew 25:24, 25.]13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 6
“The Lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, Thou knowest that I reaped where I sowed not, and gathered where I have not strawed: thou ought therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, that at my coming I should have received my own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant in outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Verses 26-30.]13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 16
“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 also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee a 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. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal.” [Matthew 25:31-46.]Matthew 25:25-27
To Be Like Jesus
Use Even One Talent Wisely, March 11
BLJ 79.1
“I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.” But his Lord answered and said to him, “You wicked and lazy servant.... You ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.” Matthew 25:25-27, NKJV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 153, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 153, 1899, par. 18
Come, my brethren and sisters, and seek conversion of soul, body, and spirit. Unfold your napkin and begin to trade with your Lord’s goods. In so doing you will gain other talents. Every soul entrusted with talents is to use his talents to benefit others. Who in the great day of final reckoning will say, “I was afraid, and went and hid thy money in the earth; lo, there thou hast that is thine”? To such the Lord will answer, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, ... 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 25:25-27.]Matthew 25:26
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 116, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 116, 1897, par. 36
“Slothful servants” is the charge that God makes of those in the churches. [Matthew 25:26.] His will is not done when sacred things are left to remain in a withered, neglected condition. Self-sacrifice, self-denial, in every church would change the order of things. “The silver is mine and the gold is mine, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Haggai 2:8.] When that gold and silver is used for selfish purposes, to gratify ambition or pride or selfish indulgence, as has been done, God is dishonored. Can those who are representative men be so sound asleep that they do not comprehend that the state of things that exists is a result of neglect on their part. When the people chosen by God embellish their own houses, and invest God’s money in bicycles and various things for selfish gratification, knowing that the very means thus used should be used to keep the house of God in the very best condition, that no means may be taken from the treasury to defray running expenses, they cannot be blessed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 98, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 98, 1900, par. 5
To every man in service is given his work and no excuse can be accepted why that God-given work is not done. Some are negligent and indolent. Some are slothful servants [like the man] who had one talent entrusted to use and improve, but he buried it in the earth and made no use of it. When his talent was called for, to be rendered back to God, the Owner, he had only the one unused talent. No one was improved by his entrusted gift. The least he could have done was to use it to the best of his ability, but he handed it back with a complaint against God: I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou has not strewn. So I hid thy talent in the earth. Lo, here is thy lent treasure. The Lord repeated his words, “Thou knewest.” [Matthew 25:26.] The fact was he had not a knowledge of God and His works and His ways and His mercy and His kindness in giving an opportunity to improve the entrusted gift. The word is, Take the talent from him and give it to him that hath ten talents, for to him that hath shall be given and from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.Matthew 25:26-27
Manuscript Releases, vol. 6 [Nos. 347-418]
MR No. 379—Enlisting the Laymen in Seeking Lost Sheep
6MR 201.1
I was bidden to look and behold what continuous efforts had been put forth and how precious time and money had been consumed in educating ministers in Bible truth, and instructing them how to work, and yet how small a number had responded to the light that had been given; how few had been led to tremble at the word, and to arouse from their dormant, sluggish, spiritual state, to take in the fact that there is a world to be warned, and that there are souls who are perishing out of Christ. The sanction of heaven cannot be given to misuse of light and truth or to spiritual inactivity. Of those who have not improved their privileges it is written in the books of heaven, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, ... 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 25:26, 27. Those who have been privileged to have the truth brought before them, should, irrespective of circumstances, receive the truth into good and honest hearts, and go to work as faithful stewards of the grace of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 39, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 39, 1894, par. 5
I was bidden to look and behold what continuous efforts had been put forth, and how precious time and money had been consumed, in educating ministers in Bible truth and instructing them how to work, and yet how small a number had responded to the light that had been given; how few had been led to tremble at the Word, and to arouse from their dormant, sluggish, spiritual state to take in the fact that there is a world to be warned and that there are souls who are perishing out of Christ. The sanction of heaven cannot be given to misuse of light and truth or to spiritual inactivity. Of those who have not improved their privileges it is written in the books of heaven, “Thou wicked and slothful servant ... 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 25:26, 27. Those who have been privileged to have the truth brought before them should, irrespective of circumstances, receive the truth into good and honest hearts and go to work as faithful stewards of the grace of Christ.Matthew 25:26-28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 147a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 147a, 1897, par. 13
We need to learn our duty, which is clearly defined in the Word of God. The Lord is not pleased to have His work poorly and cheaply done, or to have it dragged along as though it were a wearisome task. We have no time to squander in dilatory, unwilling movements. The interest we should take in everything that we do will make our work interesting and educating. We are to constantly improve in the thought and word and action. O, if we would only individually be determined that the Lord shall not say of us, “Thou wicked and slothful servant;” “take the talent from him, and give it to him that hath ten talents.” [Matthew 25:26, 28.]Matthew 25:26-29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 198, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 41
To another was given one talent. By wise use of that talent, he could have doubled it, as the others had done with theirs. But he was ungrateful, and wrapping his talent in a napkin, he hid it in the earth. When his lord came to reckon with him, and found what he had done, he said, “Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gathered where I have not strawed: thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto everyone that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.” [Matthew 25:26-29.]Matthew 25:28
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 5, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 5, 1877, par. 21
Jesus taught His disciples lessons of economy. “Gather up the fragments,” He said, “that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] God varies the talents He entrusts us with, according to our capabilities. To one He gave five, to another two, and to another one talent. The man that had the one talent put it in a napkin and hid it in the earth. He did not improve it. He buried his talent in the world, and he was denounced for so doing. “Take ye the talent from him,” said the Master, “and give it to him who has improved and doubled his talents, and take ye the unprofitable servant, and cast him into outer darkness,” etc. [Matthew 25:28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 89, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, par. 4
Those engaged in any department of our institutions should realize that they are there to work for God. They are co-laborers with Jesus. No selfishness should mar their work. Many who acknowledge that our institutions belong to the Lord, and that they are connected with them as His laborers, neglect the claims of God. Yet they do not sense that they are doing wrong. They are shut up to self-serving. Let them not suppose that they can live a life of selfishness, merely serving their own interests, and then at last enter into the joy of their Lord. He who refuses to impart to others that which he has received will at last find that he has nothing to give. It will be said, “Take the talent from him.” [Matthew 25:28.] We should not mistake the enjoyment of our blessings for the use we should make of them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 138, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 138, 1903, par. 8
You may be tempted to say, I will make no effort. What good could one talent accomplish. But do not yield to the temptation. Think of the punishment of the slothful servant, who, entrusted with one talent, refused to put it to use. “Take therefore the talent from him,” was the command, “and give it unto him which hath ten talents.” [Matthew 25:28.]Matthew 25:29
That I May Know Him
A Day of Reckoning, November 16
TMK 326.1
For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. Matthew 25:29.The Upward Look
Use the Talents Entrusted, November 25
UL 343.1
Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. Matthew 25:29.To Be Like Jesus
Use Abilities and Means for God’s Glory, March 12
BLJ 80.1
To all those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. Matthew 25:29, NRSV.From the Heart
What Can Be, April 15
FH 117.1
To everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. Matthew 25:29.Matthew 25:30
Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 89—Positive Influences on the Mind
2MCP 800.3
The continual misuse of their talents will effectually quench for them the Holy Spirit, which is the only light. The sentence, “Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness” (Matthew 25:30), sets Heaven’s seal to the choice which they themselves have made for eternity.—Christ’s Object Lessons, 365 (1900).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 10, 1878
3LtMs, Lt 10, 1878, par. 2
Very many who are now content with their lives in doing nothing will be awakened from their selfish, ease-loving, irresponsible position with the startling, irrevocable sentence of doom, “Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 25:30. But I will not dwell upon this subject in my letter to you who need holding back rather than urging to greater exertion.Matthew 25:31
Darkness Before Dawn
The Crowning Deception
DD 42.2
And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned His people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of His second coming. “There shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.... Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth; behold, He is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known—witnessed by the whole world.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 39—“The Time of Trouble”
GC88 625.1
And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned his people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of his second coming. “There shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.... Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17.] This coming, there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known—witnessed by the whole world.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 34—The Time of Trouble
4SP 443.1
But the people of God will not be misled. The teachings of this false Christ are not in accordance with the Scriptures. His blessing is pronounced upon the worshipers of the beast and his image,—the very class upon whom the Bible declares that God’s unmingled wrath shall be poured out. And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Scriptures teach that “as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be;” [Matthew 24:27.] that he “cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him;” [Revelation 1:7.] that he will “descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God;” [1 Thessalonians 4:16.] that he will “come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him,” [Matthew 25:31.] and will “send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect.” [Matthew 24:31.] Those who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the testimony of the Scriptures they will detect the deceiver in his disguise.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 87—Christ’s Triumphal Entry Into Heaven
HLv 553.5
Christ had ascended in the form of humanity—the same Jesus who had broken bread with them and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet. The angels assured them that the very One whom they had seen go into heaven would come again even as He had ascended. He will come “with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “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.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31.From Here to Forever
Personal Coming of Christ
HF 201.2
Miller found the literal, personal coming of Christ plainly taught in Scripture. “The Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God.” “They shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” “As the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” “The Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him.” “And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Matthew 24:30, 27; 25:31; 24:31.From Here to Forever
God’s People Not Misled
HF 379.3
Furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned His people against deception on this point. “There shall arise false christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. ... Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27. See also Matthew 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming, there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be witnessed by the whole world.The Great Hope (Condensed)
God’s People Not Misled
GrH_c 42.7
Furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned His people against deception on this point. “There shall arise false christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.... Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27. See also Matthew 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming, there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be witnessed by the whole world.Testimony for the Church — No. 14
Ministers, Order and Organization
T14 61.1
Paul exhorts the Hebrews, “Let brotherly love continue.” Do not flatter yourselves that there is a time when this exhortation will not be needed; when brotherly love may cease. He continues, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”—Please read Matthew 25:31, and onward. Read it, brethren, the next time you take the Bible at your morning or evening family devotions. The good works performed by those who are to be welcomed to the kingdom were done to Christ in the persons of his suffering people. Those who have done these good works did not see that they had done anything for Christ. They had done no more than their duty to suffering humanity. Those on the left hand could not see that they had abused Christ in neglecting the wants of his people. But they had neglected to do for Jesus in the persons of his saints, for which they were to go away into everlasting punishment. And one definite point of their neglect is thus stated, “I was a stranger, and ye took me not in.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 51, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 51, 1897, par. 13
In legal condemnation nothing could be done until the light of day and before a full session of the Sanhedrin. And yet the priests had declared that He was worthy of death. He was not considered fit to receive abuse from the lowest and vilest of human kind. He was taken from the outer court to the guard room, on every side meeting with taunts and jeers, and cruel mockery in regard to His claims to be the Son of God; “sitting on the throne of his glory,” and “coming in the clouds of heaven,” was tauntingly and mockingly repeated. [Matthew 25:31; 26:64.]God’s Amazing Grace
Christ’s Glorious Appearing, December 14
AG 356.1
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. Matthew 25:31.Heaven
Chapter 5—Christ’s Second Coming
Hvn 32.1
Whole World Will See—“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known—witnessed by the whole world.—The Great Controversy, 625.Heaven
Chapter 8—Face-to-Face at Last
Hvn 68.4
“The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “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.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord’s own promise to His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord’s return.—The Desire of Ages, 832.Sons and Daughters of God
Christ Comes With Power and Great Glory, December 16
SD 357.1
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. Matthew 25:31.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 114—The Case of Hannah More
1T 679.2
Paul exhorts the Hebrews: “Let brotherly love continue.” Do not flatter yourselves that there is a time when this exhortation will not be needed; when brotherly love may cease. He continues: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Please read Matthew 25:31 and onward. Read it, brethren, the next time you take the Bible at your morning or evening family devotions. The good works performed by those who are to be welcomed to the kingdom were done to Christ in the person of His suffering people. Those who had done these good works did not see that they had done anything for Christ. They had done no more than their duty to suffering humanity. Those on the left hand could not see that they had abused Christ in neglecting the wants of His people. But they had neglected to do for Jesus in the person of His saints, and for this neglect they were to go away into everlasting punishment. And one definite point of their neglect is thus stated: “I was a stranger, and ye took Me not in.”The Desire of Ages
Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”
DA 832.2
Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,—the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father’s throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come “with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “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.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord’s own promise to His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord’s return.The Great Controversy
Chapter 39—The Time of Trouble
GC 625.2
And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned His people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of His second coming. “There shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.... Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth; behold, He is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known—witnessed by the whole world.Matthew 25:31-32
In Heavenly Places
Judge of the Whole World, December 18
HP 359.1
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. Matthew 25:31, 32.From Here to Forever
Chapter 17—Promises of Christ’s Return
HF 187.4
The Saviour comforted His disciples with the assurance that He would come again: “In my father’s house are many mansions. ... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go, ... I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” “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.” John 14:2, 3; Matthew 25:31, 32.From Here to Forever
“The Time Is Fulfilled”
HF 216.3
The expression “kingdom of God” designates both the kingdom of grace and the kingdom of glory. The apostle says: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace.” Hebrews 4:16. The existence of a throne implies the existence of a kingdom. Christ uses the expression “the kingdom of heaven” to designate the work of grace upon the hearts of men. So the throne of glory represents the kingdom of glory. Matthew 25:31, 32. This kingdom is yet future. It is not to be set up until the second advent of Christ.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Experience of the Apostles Provides an Object Lesson
CIHS 108.1
So the throne of glory represents the kingdom of glory; and this kingdom is referred to in the Saviour’s words: “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.” Matthew 25:31, 32. This kingdom is yet future. It is not to be set up until the second advent of Christ.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Chapter 9—Real Hope
GrH_c 38.4
The Saviour comforted His disciples with the assurance that He would come again: “In my father’s house are many mansions.... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go,... I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” “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.” John 14:2, 3; Matthew 25:31, 32.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 39, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 39, 1898, par. 1
“When the Son of man shall come, 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.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.] Enoch, the seventh from Adam prophesied, “Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches, which ungodly sinners have spoken against them.” [Jude 14, 15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 187, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 24
“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.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.] “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark: and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:36-39.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 151, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 16
“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.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.] “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark: and knew not until the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:36-39.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1575—A Description of Christ’s Return and the Final Judgment; An Appeal for Faithful Stewardship and Witnessing
21MR 348.3
The Lord is soon to come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Is there not enough comprehended in the truths which cluster around this event, and in the preparation essential for it, to make us think solemnly of our duty? Distinctly and clearly this subject is to be kept before the people. “The Son of man shall come in His glory ... and before Him shall be gathered all nations” [Matthew 25:31, 32].Patriarchs and Prophets
Appendix
PP 762.3
To the twelve apostles the Saviour said, “I appoint unto you a kingdom, as My Father hath appointed unto Me; that ye may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Luke 22:29, 30. From Matthew’s account ofChrist’s promise to the twelve we learn when it will be fulfilled; “in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Matthew 19:28. In the parable of the talents, Christ represents Himself under the figure of a nobleman who “went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.” Luke 19:12. And He Himself has told us when He will sit upon the throne of His glory: “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.” Matthew 25:31, 32.The Great Controversy
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC 301.1
When the Saviour was about to be separated from His disciples, He comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that He would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.... In My Father’s house are many mansions.... I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:1-3. “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.” Matthew 25:31, 32.The Great Controversy
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC 347.1
So the throne of glory represents the kingdom of glory; and this kingdom is referred to in the Saviour’s words: “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.” Matthew 25:31, 32. This kingdom is yet future. It is not to be set up until the second advent of Christ.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC88 301.1
When the Saviour was about to be separated from his disciples, he comforted them in their sorrow with the assurance that he would come again: “Let not your heart be troubled.” “In my Father’s house are many mansions.” “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” [John 14:1-3.] “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.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.]The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC88 347.1
So the throne of glory represents the kingdom of glory, and this kingdom is referred to in the Saviour’s words, “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.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.] This kingdom is yet future. It is not to be set up until the second advent of Christ.The Story of Jesus
Chapter 30—Coming Again
SJ 173.3
He did not leave them in doubt as to the manner of His coming. “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.” Matthew 25:31, 32.This Day With God
The Judgment Is Coming, October 14
TDG 296.2
The Lord is soon to come in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. Is there not enough comprehended in the truths which cluster round this event and in the preparation essential for it, to make us think solemnly of our duty? Distinctly and clearly this subject is to be kept before the people. “The Son of man shall come in his glory ...: and before him shall be gathered all nations” (Matthew 25:31, 32).Matthew 25:31-34
The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 18—An American Reformer
GC88 321.2
Miller found the literal, personal coming of Christ to be plainly taught in the Scriptures. Says Paul, “The Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God.” [1 Thessalonians 4:16.] And the Saviour declares: “They shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” “For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:30, 27.] He is to be accompanied by all the hosts of Heaven. “The Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him.” “And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect.” [Matthew 25:31; 24:31.]GC88 322.2
Not until the personal advent of Christ can his people receive the kingdom. The Saviour said: “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 the 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.” [Matthew 25:31-34.] We have seen by the scriptures just given that when the Son of man comes, the dead are raised incorruptible, and the living are changed. By this great change they are prepared to receive the kingdom; for Paul says, “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.” [1 Corinthians 15:50.] Man in his present state is mortal, corruptible; but the kingdom of God will be incorruptible, enduring forever. Therefore man in his present state cannot enter into the kingdom of God. But when Jesus comes, he confers immortality upon his people; and then he calls them to inherit the kingdom, of which they have hitherto been only heirs.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Study of the Prophecies
CIHS 76.2
Miller found the literal, personal coming of Christ to be plainly taught in the Scriptures. Says Paul: “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16. And the Saviour declares: “They shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” “For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:30, 27. He is to be accompanied by all the hosts of heaven. “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him.” Matthew 25:31. “And He shall send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together His elect.” Matthew 24:31.CIHS 77.2
Not until the personal advent of Christ can His people receive the kingdom. The Saviour said: “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 the 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.” Matthew 25:31-34. We have seen by the scriptures just given that when the Son of man comes, the dead are raised incorruptible and the living are changed. By this great change they are prepared to receive the kingdom; for Paul says: “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.” 1 Corinthians 15:50. Man in his present state is mortal, corruptible; but the kingdom of God will be incorruptible, enduring forever. Therefore man in his present state cannot enter into the kingdom of God. But when Jesus comes, He confers immortality upon His people; and then He calls them to inherit the kingdom of which they have hitherto been only heirs.The Great Controversy
Chapter 18—An American Reformer
GC 321.3
Miller found the literal, personal coming of Christ to be plainly taught in the Scriptures. Says Paul: “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16. And the Saviour declares: “They shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” “For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” Matthew 24:30, 27. He is to be accompanied by all the hosts of heaven. “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him.” Matthew 25:31. “And He shall send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together His elect.” Matthew 24:31.GC 322.2
Not until the personal advent of Christ can His people receive the kingdom. The Saviour said: “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 the 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.” Matthew 25:31-34. We have seen by the scriptures just given that when the Son of man comes, the dead are raised incorruptible and the living are changed. By this great change they are prepared to receive the kingdom; for Paul says: “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.” 1 Corinthians 15:50. Man in his present state is mortal, corruptible; but the kingdom of God will be incorruptible, enduring forever. Therefore man in his present state cannot enter into the kingdom of God. But when Jesus comes, He confers immortality upon His people; and then He calls them to inherit the kingdom of which they have hitherto been only heirs.God’s Amazing Grace
Still Future, December 5
AG 347.4
Not until the personal advent of Christ can His people receive the kingdom. The Saviour said: “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.... 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” (Matthew 25:31-34).... When the Son of man comes, the dead are raised incorruptible and the living are changed. By this great change they are prepared to receive the kingdom.... Man in his present state is mortal, corruptible; but the kingdom of God will be incorruptible, enduring forever. Therefore man in his present state cannot enter the kingdom of God. But when Jesus comes, He confers immortality upon His people; and then He calls them to inherit the kingdom of which they have hitherto been only heirs.8The Great Controversy, 322, 323.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 77, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 77, 1906, par. 15
The division of the whole multitude will be made. “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 the left.” Those who have done good and those who have done evil will receive a reward according to their works. Then shall Jesus say to those on His right hand, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [Matthew 25:31-34.] Thus He welcomes them to live hereafter in eternal communion with Himself. Every voice in the mansions of heaven echoes the welcome, “Come, ye blessed of My Father; inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.”Matthew 25:31-40
Faith and Works
Just Two Classes—Obedient and Disobedient
FW 44.3
“Then shall the righteous answer Him, saying, Lord, when saw we Thee an hungred, 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” (Matthew 25:31-40).Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
During the Next Year and a Half
15MR 112.3
Let all study the character which God accepts, as represented in the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew. If this representation does not educate men and women, what can do the work which must be done for the soul? Mark the division made between those represented by the sheep and the goats, and mark the words which decide forever the destiny of the two classes. Listen, you who have ears to hear and intellect to comprehend. Listen to the words of the Master: [Matthew 25:31-40, quoted].—Manuscript 131, 1899.Matthew 25:31-41
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 52, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 55
But when the judgment shall sit, a man’s profession weighs nothing with God. “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 the left.” Matthew 25:31-33. “They that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” John 5:29. Here is specified the line of separation of the two classes.7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 56
Those who have suffered themselves to be deluded and deceived by their own ideas and their own low estimate of what constitutes character after the divine model, find they are poisoned with Satan’s sophistry. The deadly draught of Satan which they have received may not develop the sure results at once, but the last great day, when character is weighed, then all would be correctly estimated. The angels shall come forth and sever the wicked from the just. The highest order of heavenly instrumentalities and the whole trial and test will be conducted under the immediate eye of God. As the separation takes place the reward is apportioned. “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.” Matthew 25:34.7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 57
O what language to be addressed to men and women fallen. Every word is full of benevolence, gracious, compassionate. “Then shall the King say unto them (the blessed) Come,” and the arms of infinite love are opened to them, appointing them heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ, blending them with His own nature. Blessed, irreversibly blessed! How unlike the breath of human applause. All the opinions and ideas of the world are nothing. Then if God blesses, who can curse? The world’s favor, applause or hatred, and curse are nothing. “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 25:34.7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 61
“Then shall He say also unto them on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.’” Matthew 25:41. Who can imagine so terrible, so awful a thing as a curse uttered by God, by the lips of Him whose words were so full of love so fragrant, now the reverse. A curse uttered by God is a terrible thing. It was His delight to bless. But the glory of His character as revealed to Moses, a portion of it is to by no means clear the guilty. Every word is loaded with such terrible benediction. Then will the ungodly know what is meant by punishment when God, the mighty God, is their avowed enemy. They outlawed themselves and God now [has] outlawed them, by His direct retribution pronounced curse, His irrevocable sentence, “Depart.”Matthew 25:31-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 131, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 131, 1900, par. 11
The Lord is soon to come in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. Is there not enough comprehended in the truths which cluster round this event, and in the preparation essential for it, to make us think solemnly of our duty? Distinctly and clearly this subject is to be kept before the people. “The Son of man shall come in his glory ... and before him shall be gathered all nations.” [Matthew 25:31, 32.]15LtMs, Lt 131, 1900, par. 20
Are not these subjects of sufficient moment to present to the people? Will not our people take their Bibles and study them, and see that their eternal interests are at stake? “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.] “Inasmuch as ye did it,” and, “Inasmuch as ye did it not”—thus will the cases of men and women be decided. [Matthew 25:40, 45.] In that great day all will see that their course of action decided their destiny. They will be rewarded or punished according as they have obeyed or violated the law of God. In that great day the character of each individual will be plainly and distinctly revealed. God will look into all the feelings and motives. No one can then occupy middle ground. Men and women are either saints or sinners, either entitled to a glorious life of eternity, or doomed to eternal death.Matthew 25:31-46
A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 15—Social Justice
CSA 58.2
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 the 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 hungred, 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 hungred, 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 also 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 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? 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. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. Matthew 25:31-46.CSA 60.4
“Then shall He say also 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 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. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Matthew 25:41-46.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 70—“The Least of These My Brethren”
DA 637.1
“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.” Thus Christ on the Mount of Olives pictured to His disciples the scene of the great judgment day. And He represented its decision as turning upon one point. When the nations are gathered before Him, there will be but two classes, and their eternal destiny will be determined by what they have done or have neglected to do for Him in the person of the poor and the suffering.DA 637.2
In that day Christ does not present before men the great work He has done for them in giving His life for their redemption. He presents the faithful work they have done for Him. To those whom He sets upon His right hand He will say, “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.” But those whom Christ commends know not that they have been ministering unto Him. To their perplexed inquiries He answers, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.”DA 637.3
Jesus had told His disciples that they were to be hated of all men, to be persecuted and afflicted. Many would be driven from their homes, and brought to poverty. Many would be in distress through disease and privation. Many would be cast into prison. To all who forsook friends or home for His sake He had promised in this life a hundredfold. Now He assured a special blessing to all who should minister to their brethren. In all who suffer for My name, said Jesus, you are to recognize Me. As you would minister to Me, so you are to minister to them. This is the evidence that you are My disciples.DA 638.1
All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest there the divine relationship is revealed. “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7.DA 638.2
Those whom Christ commends in the judgment may have known little of theology, but they have cherished His principles. Through the influence of the divine Spirit they have been a blessing to those about them. Even among the heathen are those who have cherished the spirit of kindness; before the words of life had fallen upon their ears, they have befriended the missionaries, even ministering to them at the peril of their own lives. Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish. Though ignorant of the written law of God, they have heard His voice speaking to them in nature, and have done the things that the law required. Their works are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts, and they are recognized as the children of God.DA 638.3
How surprised and gladdened will be the lowly among the nations, and among the heathen, to hear from the lips of the Saviour, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me”! How glad will be the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise and joy at His words of approval!DA 638.4
But not to any class is Christ’s love restricted. He identifies Himself with every child of humanity. That we might become members of the heavenly family, He became a member of the earthly family. He is the Son of man, and thus a brother to every son and daughter of Adam. His followers are not to feel themselves detached from the perishing world around them. They are a part of the great web of humanity; and Heaven looks upon them as brothers to sinners as well as to saints. The fallen, the erring, and the sinful, Christ’s love embraces; and every deed of kindness done to uplift a fallen soul, every act of mercy, is accepted as done to Him.DA 639.1
The angels of heaven are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. We know not now who they are; it is not yet made manifest who shall overcome, and share the inheritance of the saints in light; but angels of heaven are passing throughout the length and breadth of the earth, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to protect the imperiled, to win the hearts of men to Christ. Not one is neglected or passed by. God is no respecter of persons, and He has an equal care for all the souls He has created.DA 639.2
As you open your door to Christ’s needy and suffering ones, you are welcoming unseen angels. You invite the companionship of heavenly beings. They bring a sacred atmosphere of joy and peace. They come with praises upon their lips, and an answering strain is heard in heaven. Every deed of mercy makes music there. The Father from His throne numbers the unselfish workers among His most precious treasures.DA 639.3
Those on the left hand of Christ, those who had neglected Him in the person of the poor and the suffering, were unconscious of their guilt. Satan had blinded them; they had not perceived what they owed to their brethren. They had been self-absorbed, and cared not for others’ needs.DA 639.4
To the rich, God has given wealth that they may relieve and comfort His suffering children; but too often they are indifferent to the wants of others. They feel themselves superior to their poor brethren. They do not put themselves in the poor man’s place. They do not understand the temptations and struggles of the poor, and mercy dies out of their hearts. In costly dwellings and splendid churches, the rich shut themselves away from the poor; the means that God has given to bless the needy is spent in pampering pride and selfishness. The poor are robbed daily of the education they should have concerning the tender mercies of God; for He has made ample provision that they should be comforted with the necessities of life. They are compelled to feel the poverty that narrows life, and are often tempted to become envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings. Those who themselves have not endured the pressure of want too often treat the poor in a contemptuous way, and make them feel that they are looked upon as paupers.DA 639.5
But Christ beholds it all, and He says, It was I who was hungry and thirsty. It was I who was a stranger. It was I who was sick. It was I who was in prison. While you were feasting at your bountifully spread table, I was famishing in the hovel or the empty street. While you were at ease in your luxurious home, I had not where to lay My head. While you crowded your wardrobe with rich apparel, I was destitute. While you pursued your pleasures, I languished in prison.DA 640.1
When you doled out the pittance of bread to the starving poor, when you gave those flimsy garments to shield them from the biting frost, did you remember that you were giving to the Lord of glory? All the days of your life I was near you in the person of these afflicted ones, but you did not seek Me. You would not enter into fellowship with Me. I know you not.DA 640.2
Many feel that it would be a great privilege to visit the scenes of Christ’s life on earth, to walk where He trod, to look upon the lake beside which He loved to teach, and the hills and valleys on which His eyes so often rested. But we need not go to Nazareth, to Capernaum, or to Bethany, in order to walk in the steps of Jesus. We shall find His footprints beside the sickbed, in the hovels of poverty, in the crowded alleys of the great city, and in every place where there are human hearts in need of consolation. In doing as Jesus did when on earth, we shall walk in His steps.DA 640.3
All may find something to do. “The poor always ye have with you,” (John 12:8), Jesus said, and none need feel that there is no place where they can labor for Him. Millions upon millions of human souls ready to perish, bound in chains of ignorance and sin, have never so much as heard of Christ’s love for them. Were our condition and theirs to be reversed, what would we desire them to do for us? All this, so far as lies in our power, we are under the most solemn obligation to do for them. Christ’s rule of life, by which every one of us must stand or fall in the judgment, is, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” Matthew 7:12.DA 640.4
The Saviour has given His precious life in order to establish a church capable of caring for sorrowful, tempted souls. A company of believers may be poor, uneducated, and unknown; yet in Christ they may do a work in the home, the neighborhood, the church, and even in “the regions beyond,” whose results shall be as far-reaching as eternity.DA 640.5
It is because this work is neglected that so many young disciples never advance beyond the mere alphabet of Christian experience. The light which was glowing in their own hearts when Jesus spoke to them, “Thy sins be forgiven thee,” they might have kept alive by helping those in need. The restless energy that is so often a source of danger to the young might be directed into channels through which it would flow out in streams of blessing. Self would be forgotten in earnest work to do others good.DA 641.1
Those who minister to others will be ministered unto by the Chief Shepherd. They themselves will drink of the living water, and will be satisfied. They will not be longing for exciting amusements, or for some change in their lives. The great topic of interest will be, how to save the souls that are ready to perish. Social intercourse will be profitable. The love of the Redeemer will draw hearts together in unity.DA 641.2
When we realize that we are workers together with God, His promises will not be spoken with indifference. They will burn in our hearts, and kindle upon our lips. To Moses, when called to minister to an ignorant, undisciplined, and rebellious people, God gave the promise, “My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” And He said, “Certainly I will be with thee.” Exodus 33:14; 3:12. This promise is to all who labor in Christ’s stead for His afflicted and suffering ones.DA 641.3
Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one with us. And when His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another, as I have loved you” (John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts.DA 641.4
But “if thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain; if thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not He that pondereth the heart consider it? and He that keepeth thy soul, doth not He know it? and shall not He render to every man according to his works?” Proverbs 24:11, 12. In the great Judgment day, those who have not worked for Christ, who have drifted along thinking of themselves, caring for themselves, will be placed by the Judge of the whole earth with those who did evil. They receive the same condemnation.DA 641.5
To every soul a trust is given. Of everyone the Chief Shepherd will demand, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?” And “what wilt thou say when He shall punish thee?” Jeremiah 13:20, 21.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 25:23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 6, 1869
2LtMs, Lt 6, 1869, par. 14
What will be the end of these things? Will you receive the gift of God brought by Jesus Christ of everlasting life and hear from the lips of Him who died for you, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter into the joy of thy Lord?” Matthew 25:23. What joy is here spoken of? That joy of seeing souls redeemed in the kingdom of glory. That joy being yours of seeing souls saved through your instrumentality. Will this joy be yours? Will you live an aimless life of self-gratification longer, and in the end reap death and see souls lost through your example and influence who might have been saved?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 2, 1869
2LtMs, Ms 2, 1869, par. 10
Our brethren are paralyzed. Oh, what will rouse them to value less highly earthly enterprises and to place a true estimate upon the enterprise of eternal life? Why do not our brethren who make so great a profession see that their words, their acts and their life is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death? Why do they not arouse is my painful inquiry. We shall all be rewarded as our works have been. Not one will pass through the pearly gates of the city of God who has not been purified, sanctified, and weaned from every idol. To those who have been truly faithful, Christ will 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. Goodness and faithfulness are required of every one who is a candidate for everlasting life. Oh, why do not those who have the clear light of truth let their light shine?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 13, 1869
2LtMs, Lt 13, 1869, par. 37
Cornelia [Cornell], you have a great lesson to learn. To deny self, and cease to be self-caring; love self less, and the Lord and His cause with an unselfish love. The second commandment, she has not carried out in her life. The second commandment is like it, namely, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Matthew 22:39.] She will have to work upon a different principle or she will never hear the “well done good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23] from the lips of the Master.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 9, 1873
2LtMs, Lt 9, 1873, par. 22
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 ummeasured 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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 33, 1870
2LtMs, Lt 33, 1870, par. 12
We miss you but we have no desire to call you back. Stay just as long as you feel it to be your duty. We have no duties to make for you. We all have a place, a fitting place, where God would have us somewhere. Seek counsel of God, and move as He would have you, and we shall not have one murmuring thought. If your duty is with your parents and sisters and brother, may the Lord bless and prosper you is our sincere prayer. If it is the will of God for you to be with us and share our perplexing lot, may you have strength to cheerfully bear this cross. The Lord has appointed us all and each our work. Each has a work to do for the Master. In this work we shall be sustained, cheered, and strengthened that we may do our work faithfully so that when the Master comes He may say, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 30, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 30, 1874, par. 2
I wish you were both here. We should enjoy your society so much. We feel the most intense interest that the cause of God should be advanced. Take care, children, that you do not take too long a time to get ready to do something. Do something now. Do whatever you can and the way will open before you. Every moment of time is golden. Souls out of Christ are to be persuaded to lay hold of the hope of the gospel. Some one will receive the reward by and by, and the commendation of the Master, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] To be good is not all that is required. We must likewise be faithful. Paul exhorted Timothy, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine.” [1 Timothy 4:16.] Our first work is to cleanse the soul temple of its defilement, to seek the Lord diligently that we may find Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1a, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 1a, 1872, par. 17
Christ has committed unto us talents of means and of influence and He bids us occupy till He comes. This includes every one who has reasoning powers who claims to be His servant. All are required to improve according to their capabilities, whatever they may be. After a long time the Master cometh and reckoneth with His servants and all are called to the strictest account. What use have they made of their Master’s trust? The first servant shows that he has gained ten pounds, the second has gained five pounds. The Lord commends them saying, “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. Every man received his own reward according to his own labor. Each received in exact proportion to the zeal, fidelity, and success he had had in trading with the talents.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 5, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 5, 1874, par. 13
My son, be a wholehearted Christian. Be wholly for God. Our hours of probation are but few, and they are exceedingly precious, to be used in forming character for heaven and securing the eternal reward, and in saving sinners. Oh, what a work—to be co-workers with Jesus Christ, to share His self-denial and sacrifice, to bear reproach for His dear name and finally receive from Him the “Well done, good and faithful servant”! [Matthew 25:23.] The reward is rich and abundant. We deserve it not, but nevertheless, if faithful, the promise of everlasting life is to us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 66, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 66, 1874, par. 16
My very soul hopes and prays and longs for you to be converted, to have a high and exalted sense of sacred things. The course Edson and Emma have pursued I look upon with surprise and astonishment. Your deception in regard to your real condition before God is alarming. What can the Master say to you? Can He say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servants”? Can He say, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? [Matthew 25:23.] I hope you will now make thorough work.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Days of Conflict and Soul-Anguish
GW 322.2
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,” Vol. III, pages 320-327.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 3, 1872
2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, par. 14
It is a disagreeable task for the head of the family in the household department to be obliged to see for herself what must be done and tell her help everything that needs to be done. They have eyes and capabilities and can see if they choose to see and can do if they choose to do. But the inclination to neglect and pass over things that ought every day to be done and is in their line of duty to perform, displeases God and heavenly angels. Can Jesus say to these girls, who neglect their duty and make burdens for others by their heedlessness, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things”? [Matthew 25:23.] Christ will not commend any for faithfulness unless they have earned this commendation by diligent use of their privileges and the faithful discharge of their duty. The sin of the slothful servant was not because of his great vileness and unsurpassed wickedness, but he was neglectful in doing the work he ought to have done. His sin was in not doing. He was a slothful servant and lost all because he did not do the things he might have done. He neglected to perform the everyday duties of life. Simple though these may be, they are of consequence in the sight of God. Oh, how many will lose heaven because they do not attach sufficient importance to the little duties of life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 6, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 6, 1877, par. 3
But if you closed your eyes to the truth, refused to obey the requirements of God, after being sufficiently tested, our work would be disconnected; for it would be impossible for such a work as God has given me, being done to His acceptance and glory by one who regarded the truth even indifferently. I saw that Jesus loved you and looked pityingly upon you, and was inviting you to come to Him with all your burdens and lay them with yourself upon the Burden-bearer. All your good traits of character, your talents of ability, are the gift of God given you to be used to His glory. You may devote these to the world; or you may devote them to your Redeemer and have at last spoken to you by the dear Saviour, “Well done good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 23, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 23, 1879, par. 3
The church at Boulder was organized last Sabbath. Twenty-seven united with the church. About ten more, it is expected, will unite. We had hard labor in Boulder. I spoke twice under the tent and three times to our people especially. I had a very pointed testimony to bear to Brother Olmstead and Brother Cornell. If these men had moved with wisdom, seeking to honor and glorify God, had their lives been unselfish, had their works corresponded with their faith, there would have been a church with a healthy influence in Boulder. Oh, what an account these men, professing to be children of God and yet showing the Satan side of their characters, will have to give! Retarding the work of God is a fearful matter. The record of these men who profess righteousness and do not exemplify the life of Christ in their words and acts will be such that they will never want to meet in the judgment. The “well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23] will be spoken only to those who have been faithful and unselfish, being good and doing good. We have had a hard battle, and there is a more favorable appearance. There are openings for the truth every where, but Elder Cornell has no courage to labor (I suppose in consequence of his past life) and has no burden for souls. I told him the reason he has not been connected with God. He does not love to search the Scriptures; he does not love the hour of meditation and of prayer; and therefore it is impossible for him to have spiritual strength.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 7, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 7, 1885, par. 7
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [Verse 17.] Will we hear the voice of God and obey, or shall we make half-way work of the matter and try to serve God and mammon at the same time? Christ has placed before us the conditions of eternal life. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God,” He says, “with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” “This do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:27, 28.] The servants who will hear from the lips of Christ, “Well done, good and faithful servants” [Matthew 25:23], will be heroic ministers of righteousness, though they may never preach a discourse from the pulpit. Loyal to a sense of God’s claims upon them, and jealous of the honor of their Captain, they will minister to the souls who are the purchase of His blood. They will see the necessity of carrying into their work a willing mind, an earnest spirit, and a hearty, unselfish zeal. They will not study how best they can preserve their own dignity, but by their care and thoughtfulness they win the hearts of those whom they serve. On every hand the agents of Satan will induce us to sin. But the soul who wills to love and fear God will be as firm as a rock to his heaven-inspired purpose. Like Daniel, he will refuse to be moved from his convictions of duty.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 17, 1884
4LtMs, Lt 17, 1884, par. 8
Now, I feel deep pity for you, and I do not feel clear before God unless I tell you frankly you are not right. Your management is not right. You need to correct your habits and use wisely your time if you expect the approval of God and [to] hear at last the “well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] Will you please look carefully and prayerfully over this matter? Your habits have so long been slack and careless and negligent, you do not see and sense it yourselves, but God is not pleased with you in these things. I cannot longer hold my peace. If you are as unfaithful in the service of God as you have been in temporal things, I fear you will be weighed in the balance and found wanting. You are kind-hearted and have had some burdens to bear that you should not have taken on because you were unable but this will not excuse the defects that must be corrected. One hundred dollars I have had to expand on my house, inside and out to put it in a presentable condition, as good as when you went into the house. We left the house clean. Things inside and out were in a far better condition when you went on the place than when you left it. This is not as it should be. I do not feel satisfied.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 8, 1884
4LtMs, Lt 8, 1884, par. 19
Brother Jones is being shut away from the work, nearly all his powers bent upon acquiring property. Frankie is a selfish, worldly-minded woman, and she stands directly in the way of the work. The world, the world, property, is the ambition. Oh that God may pity us poor, weak, failing mortals, before it shall be said in heaven, “It is done.” Let us work for time and for eternity. Let us do all we can on our part, do it unselfishly, do it with an eye single to God’s glory, work in that manner that when the Master comes He may say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] Let us humble our hearts before God; let us be earnest, zealous, and work from an unselfish standpoint, work as Jesus works.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 7, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 7, 1886, par. 14
Your brother Willie needs special help to break the spell of infidelity in which he stands entrenched. He may be saved, but his wicked unbelief is dishonoring to God, and the last ray of light will finally depart from him unless some special efforts are made in his behalf. You can do something here, but it will not be an easy job because he has been left alone too long. But his soul is in immediate peril. He has a wife who needs help. He has a prayerless home. Jesus is not invited by him into the home as an honored guest. He knows not what he is doing, denying the only Lord God who has bought him with His own blood, who offers to him an eternal weight of glory for a life of humble obedience. Oh, come to the fountain of light and truth yourself, and from your own experience talk of the Saviour’s power to save to the uttermost all who come unto Him. May the Lord strengthen and bless you; may the Lord so manifest Himself to you that you can reveal Him to others. Talk faith, act faith, and that which you sow you will also reap. I want you to share the eternal reward. I want you to have that life, that honor, that glory, which await all who love and honor God in this life. My heart is tender and true to you. I yearn over you as I yearn over my own children, and I want so much that you shall enter the gates of the city of God a conqueror, as one who has fought the good fight, finished his course, kept the faith, and to whom will be awarded the blessed benediction of “Good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] The Lord loves you. The Lord would have you as wholly His. But time is short; the period of character building is short for the future eternal life. God help you to build wisely.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1883, par. 47
The influence of the Holy Spirit has gone from ministers because there has been a spirit of contention. Let it forever cease. Come unto the Master and let Him breathe His sweet Spirit into your hearts. The tender plant of love must be cherished. If we should not have the privilege of meeting here again in conference, what a meeting will it be when we shall greet each other when Christ comes in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory! What a scene of glory that will be! If we can hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], the light and glory of God will beam upon us from the face of Jesus Christ. I will pray for you. How I have prayed for you in the night seasons, that you may save other souls!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 11, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 11, 1885, par. 17
We ought to know more of Jesus tomorrow than we do today. We ought to be constantly growing in grace and in the knowledge of Christ, advancing heavenward step by step. When the redeemed hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], do you think that any of them will regret the sacrifice that they have made to gain the victory? Let us keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus. By beholding Him, we shall be changed into His likeness. But if we keep thinking and talking of our trials, we shall lose sight of heaven. Let us say with Paul, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things that are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” [2 Corinthians 4:17, 18.]In Heavenly Places
Christlike Through Self-denial, October 20
HP 300.4
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).... Self-denial will bring into the treasury of God the means necessary to advance His work. Thus we may act in copartnership with Christ. Christ’s followers consider that in giving back to the Lord His own they are receiving a blessing; for they are accumulating heavenly treasure, which will be given to them when they shall hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Matthew 25:23). What is that joy? “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). The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the privilege of those who have overcome obstacles in order to put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow me.” 31Letter 52, 1897.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 70, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 70, 1886, par. 5
At the slow rate our people in many states are advancing, it will take a millennium to warn the world. Angels are holding the four winds, that they may not blow until the world has been warned and a people have decided for the truth and have been converted. The power, influence, and means of those who are truly converted will flow in the missionary channel. Those who put out money in this way to the exchangers may present to the Master their talents doubled in the ingathering of souls to Christ. Some wealthy farmers act as if they thought that in a day of judgment the Lord will only require of them to present to Him improved, enriched farms, with building added to building. If the acres of their farms and their buildings were so many precious souls saved to Christ, then He could say to them, “Well done, good and faithful servants.” [Matthew 25:23.] But none can take their improved farms into heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 29, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 29, 1886, par. 15
Christ left heaven that we might be redeemed from the depths of sin and degradation, and that we might have eternal riches. Our characters are photographed on the books of heaven, and from these books we are to be judged. What have we done with the talents that God has given us? Have we exerted our influence on the right side? Have we set the proper example, or have we been following the fashions of the world? Have we used our powers in God’s service? Do our lives reflect light to those around us? God expects every one to make the best use of his faculties. If we fulfil the mission that has been assigned us, the results will be seen in the kingdom of God, and to us will be spoken the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 4, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 4, 1888, par. 35
God help us, for it is those who shall enter in through the gates into the city who shall hear the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] What is that joy? Why, it is to see souls saved in the kingdom of God. He sees the travail of His soul and is satisfied. What has your life been? Are you the minister of Christ? What are you doing? What are you building on? Is it on hay, wood, and stubble? Or what? Is it the gold, the silver, and the precious stones—something that the fires of the last days will not consume? I ask you again, What is your life work? God help you to bring in the gold, silver, and precious stones, that you may see in the kingdom of God souls saved through our instrumentality and we may enter into the joy of our Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 14, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 14, 1888, par. 24
But many want to skim the surface. They do not think deep and become masters of their duties. They feel ready to grasp the highest round of the ladder without the trouble of climbing up step after step. We are pained at heart as we compare the work coming from their hands with the work that God can accept. There is a painful defect, a remissness, a superficial gloss, but wanting in solidity and in intelligent knowledge and carefulness concerning which God will pronounce, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 13, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 13, 1888, par. 4
I cannot encourage your laboring as a minister until you are converted. You must first be a Bible Christian yourself before you can lead others to Christ. Take heed to thyself and then to the doctrines. I long to see you what you ought to be and what I know you must be if you are to receive the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] You must not only be faithful, but you must be good, self-denying like Jesus. Now is your sowing time. By precept and example you may scatter the seeds of truth with an unsparing hand. Make no frantic bounds, but in self-abasement go forward intelligently, steadily, calmly, step by step in the grand work of learning self-control. The talents God has given you are not to be abused, perverted, or misapplied. He has given them to you for wise improvement. You are not to cease advancing; you are not to become self-confident, careless, and irreligious while you are professedly a shepherd of the flock. All heaven has looked with sorrow upon your light and trifling ways.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 35, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 35, 1888, par. 1
I have visited your mother’s home to find her sons and have some talk with them. I enquire, What doest thou, Edward? Are you seeking to make a man of usefulness, or are you idling away the precious moments God has mercifully given you? Have you lost sight of the true design of life? Are you willing to engage in any kind of work that is honorable to earn money to sustain yourself and lighten the burdens of your mother? She has cared and planned and labored for her children, and the only one who is really of any kind of use to her is Marcus. May the Lord bless the young man. He may never grasp very great things, but he may receive at last the benediction of “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], if you do not by your precept and example spoil him. You know he is easily influenced.5LtMs, Lt 35, 1888, par. 8
How dare you use your time, God’s time, as you do? Remember it is God’s time granted you to do your work for the Master. You may be now vicious or virtuous; just as you exercise your power will be your future reward, either in a blessing or a curse. You may now, by your indifference to the claims of God, become wise to do evil and treasure up wrath against the day of wrath—and who can bear the wrath of an offended God?—or you may, by a life of faithful discharge of duty, be a blessing in this life and by your example reflect light upon the pathway of others and hear at last the “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.]Lift Him Up
Spiritual Power, September 9
LHU 266.6
Our hearts may be filled with all the fullness of God; but there is something for us to do. We must not pet our faults and sins, but put them away, and make haste to set our hearts in order. When this is done, let us take the key of faith, and unlock the storehouse of God’s rich blessings.... There is an infinite fullness to draw from; and we have the promise of our divine Lord, “According to your faith be it unto you.” We may win the crown of life, a place at God’s right hand, and as we enter the pearly gates, hear the words, sweeter than any music, “Well done, good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23) (The Signs of the Times, August 18, 1887).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 41, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 41, 1890, par. 13
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, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] 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 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 6b, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 6b, 1890, par. 30
The conversation at the table, the conversation at the fireside, the spirit that pervades the family circle, testifies whether we are faithful in our daily duties. Through the constant culture of correct habits we are becoming qualified for the upbuilding of the church, fitted to feed the sheep and the lambs, and prepared, through a faithful discharge of every duty, to hear the heavenly benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 34, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 34, 1892, par. 12
Workers are needed now. The very many who might work, but who do not seek to obtain knowledge that they may impart it, are not the ones who will receive the benediction from Him who has purchased us at so infinite cost, “Well done good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:23.] As a people we are not doing one fiftieth what we might do as active missionaries. If we were only vitalized by the Holy Spirit, there would be a hundred missionaries where there is now one.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16f, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16f, 1892, par. 11
And what are we as a people doing, to whom Christ has entrusted precious light and a knowledge of the truth? Jesus has made us the depositories of sacred truth, and so many are burying their talents in the earth, and point not out the antidote of sin. If they do thus neglect their duty, God will pronounce them slothful servants, and will not, cannot commend them. They will not receive the benediction, “Well done good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 14, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 14, 1893, par. 17
Do not keep that padlock on any longer. You want to know that the God of heaven will acknowledge you among the faithful, that you may 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.] You ask how much He loves you. I point you to Calvary. There you behold the sufferings that Christ endured for you. You are prisoners of hope. By beholding we become changed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 23, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 23, 1893, par. 4
You have not a nice distinction of character. You are altogether too free with your affections and would, if left to your own course of action, make a lifelong mistake. Do not sell yourself at a cheap market. Do not be free with any gentleman student. Consider that you are preparing to do a work for the Master, that in order to act well your part, and render back the talents to Him who has given them to you, and to hear the precious commendation from His lips, “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], you must take heed and not be careless of your associations.Maranatha
Welcome to the City of God, November 3
Mar 315.1
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 9 (1894)
Lt 23b, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 23b, 1894, par. 10
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 money and workers to lift the banner of truth in localities where they have never even 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, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things”? [Matthew 25:23.] What kind of a witness for the truth are you in Battle Creek bearing to the unbelieving world? I have been shown that the Lord does not look upon your course with favor, for your practice contradicts your profession of faith. You are not doers of the words of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 18, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 18, 1894, par. 27
Here they stand, and the finishing touch of immortality is put upon them, and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. The gates of the City of God swing back upon their hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There are the columns of angels on either side, and the ransomed of God walk in through the cherubims and seraphims. Christ bids them welcome and puts upon them His benediction. “Well done, good and faithful servants, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] What is that joy? He sees the travail of His soul and is satisfied. That is what we labor for.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 66, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 66, 1894, par. 13
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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 47, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, par. 5
We are fellow pilgrims, seeking a better country, even a heavenly. God will never say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], at the end of our journey, if we now cherish a spirit which craves to crowd out and supplant others. Malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking are things which God abhors, and no one who reveals those fruits in his life will enter the kingdom of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 103, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 103, 1896, par. 5
We are fellow pilgrims, seeking a better country, even an heavenly. Will God say to us “Well done, good and faithful servant,” at the end of our journey, if we now cherish a spirit which craves to crowd out and supplant others? [Matthew 25:23.] Malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking are things which God abhors, and no one who reveals these fruits in their lives will enter the kingdom of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 69a, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, par. 40
We are to consider that we are to do service for God. If we have hitherto misapplied our capabilities, we have dishonored God and must render an account to God for the good the Lord had given us capability to do, and we did not do because we did not improve our opportunities to become more and more settled, rooted, and grounded in the truth. No one can live to himself and have the heavenly benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] The solemnity of our life would be much more deeply infused upon mind and heart if we looked at ourselves and our influence in the light of the Word of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 98, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 98, 1897, par. 1
I have written many things for our youth. I am wholly decided that the school established in Cooranbong will, if we have those who have discretion and experience to manage it, be a success. We have had evidence that four or five years of study in the schools in America has brought our youth back to Australia without an all-round experience. Some, who have spent the longest time in America, we have to begin to educate in regard to the first principles of the necessities of our school. How much trial, how much sorrow, do we feel in keeping right the hearts and minds that have been educated in wrong lines. Because they have gone over a line of study, and have some knowledge, they cannot bring their minds to the proper methods of study. They feel that they do not want leading strings, and would snap, within them, the educating influence of the Holy Spirit that would be their Guide. They do not understand that they lack the very education that would be their blessing, and would secure to them in the future immortal life the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 32—Infatuation and Blind Love
1MCP 300.3
A Young Lady Counseled to Guard the Affections—You are altogether too free with your affections and would, if left to your own course of action, make a lifelong mistake. Do not sell yourself at a cheap market. Do not be free with any gentleman student. Consider that you are preparing to do a work for the Master, that in order to act well your part, and render back the talents to Him who has given them to you, and to hear the precious commendation from His lips, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23), you must take heed and not be careless of your associations.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 79, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 79, 1897, par. 11
If the Holy Watcher should say to you, “This night thy soul shall be required of thee,” could Christ trace off against your name, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? [Luke 12:20; Matthew 25:23.] No; for you have not yet taken your position on the Lord’s side. You are in spirit and practice as one who has not received the truth in the love of it. You are drifting, drifting, drifting, without God and without hope in the world. You have a pretense of being a Christian, but you are not one.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 12, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 12, 1897, par. 32
But do not imagine that you are now walking in the footsteps of your self-denying Redeemer, that all you have to do is to keep on just as you are, and your salvation is secure. Because you commenced some time in your life to run the Christian course, it is not safe for you to suppose that you are following on to know the Lord. Are you sure that you will persevere unto the end, and obtain a crown of life? Only by enshrining the truth in your heart and doing the will of Christ will you secure the rich reward of the “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 52, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 52, 1897, par. 8
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” [Acts 20:35.] Through self-denying effort many pounds, shillings, and pence will flow into the Lord’s treasury, that there may be meat in His house. Self-denial will bring into the treasury of God the means necessary to advance His work. Thus we may act in copartnership with Christ. Christ’s followers consider that in giving back to the Lord His own they are receiving a blessing, for they are accumulating heavenly treasure, which will be given to them when they shall hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] What is that joy? “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.] The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the privilege of those who have overcome obstacles in order to put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, “Follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 44, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 44, 1897, par. 9
The honor of God, the honor of Jesus Christ, is involved in the perfection of your character. Your work is to co-operate with Christ, that you may be complete in Him. In being united to Him by faith, believing and receiving Him, you become part of Himself. Your character is His glory revealed in you. And when you shall appear in His presence, you will find the benediction awaiting you, “Well done, 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 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 110, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 110, 1898, par. 15
How many will you work for, that they may reach the haven of rest and share the commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant?” [Matthew 25:23.] How many will you help to crown with glory and honor and eternal life? The Lord Jesus Christ wants workers. Will you volunteer? Thousands upon thousands would today be enlightened and stand as God’s commandment-keeping people if His workers had sought to enlighten others. Go to the poorest, and reject not the richer objects of God’s mercy. Blessing and service are linked together. Then let the poor, the discouraged, the sin-sick souls, know that “in keeping of his commandments there is great reward.” [Psalm 19:7-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 14a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 14a, 1898, par. 13
Whenever you, Sister Haskell, are disposed to look with contempt upon any of God’s servants, or to criticize their missionary work because they are not working exactly after your plans, consider that the leaven of Pharisaism must be purged out of your heart before God will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] You need as verily as did the Pharisees to have the leaven of criticism and accusing purged away from you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 87, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 87, 1898, par. 31
There are many in poverty who are being driven to ruin. If the large sums of money now devoted to erecting monuments to the dead were used to help the hungry, starving, dying millions that throng our world, God would be much better pleased. Is He not a God of the living? In the judgment a strict account will be required for every misused talent. Those who now engage in horseracing, cricket matches, gambling, are spending money for that which is not bread. Can they receive the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord”? [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 13, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 13, 1898, par. 14
Just as far as we give ourselves unselfishly to God, so far shall we be honored by God. Those who have been blundering along, making little advancement, may be saved as by fire. They have worked in wrong lines, but if they repent, God will forgive them. Those who have done their best to elevate, purify, and ennoble humanity, who have knit their hearts to the hearts of others, and the hearts of others to God, will hear the words, “Well done good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Their work is imperishable.My Life Today
No Real Joy Apart From Christ, June 3
ML 158.1
Enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matthew 25:23.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 14b, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 14b, 1898, par. 12
Again I was awakened from my sleep, and what did I hear? I heard words placing W. C. White in a low, contemptible light, and demeriting his position as a worker in the cause of God. Her words were like the scorpion’s stings. Her faculty of criticism has become a fine art. She can discern defects which she would write as thus, when God would write, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] This is the element that made Satan in the heavenly courts so successful at making good and right things appear evil things, carrying the misrepresentations so decidedly against Christ Jesus and the law of His kingdom that a large number of the angels viewed the matter as Satan viewed it. His power was most seductive; his power was such as to mislead. There was the ridiculing of W. C. White and his propositions, [saying,] “Did you ever teach school?” as though as he had never taught school, he was not capable of giving advice and counsel.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 194, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 194, 1898, par. 13
And what have you done to counteract your own work under the specious deception that was upon you? Will the Lord impart to you light and grace and knowledge while the work that has been done has swayed the cause and work in wrong lines? Will the Lord say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], when you have done evil and have not made thorough work in undoing your own work that God never gave you to do? I have to write and work to counterwork the principles that have been brought in under your administration. The dearth of means is not because men have not means to give, but their confidence in the leaders is gone.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 87, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 19
“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:5-8.] This is the battle cry of one who had been faithful with his Lord’s goods, and who was waiting to receive the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 154, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 154, 1899, par. 10
Missionary work is a part of the ministry angels are appointed to perform. The work done in the South amid poverty and hardship has not been recorded in the books of heaven as a failure. In the courts above those who have done missionary work under the pressure of adverse circumstances are registered as truly successful. God says not always, “Well done, good and successful servant,” but, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 21, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 21, 1899, par. 20
Do all church members realize that all they have is given them to be used and improved. God keeps a faithful account with every human being in our world. When the day of reckoning comes, the faithful steward takes no credit to himself. “Thy pound,” he says, “has gained other pounds.” [Luke 19:16.] He does not say, “My pound.” He knows that without the entrusted gift no increase could have been made. He feels that in faithfully discharging his stewardship he has only done his duty. The capital was the Lord, and by His power he was enabled to trade upon it successfully. His name only should be glorified. Without the entrusted capital he knows that he would have been bankrupt for eternity. The approval of the Lord is received almost with surprise; it is so unexpected. But Christ says to 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 14 (1899)
Lt 145, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 145, 1899, par. 10
While angels are near, ready to make impressions of the highest value on minds, many, as they read on the Sabbath, are attracted by the pictures. They talk of the faces and the scenery. The mind is occupied by matters which are not of the least consequence in our service to God, which make impressions that close the door to spiritual things. We do not show, by keeping free from all cheap, common things, which cannot benefit our souls or the souls of others, that we realize that time is of the highest consequence to us. Too often our experience is of a character that renders it of no value. Man is dwarfed spiritually in proportion as he invents unimportant means and instrumentalities that occupy the time and the mind in carrying them out, making work and business in religious lines take the place of genuine devotion. The process is easy, but what have you? A religious theory, without the Saviour’s endorsement, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 106, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 106, 1900, par. 5
The time will come when Dr. Kellogg will see that his spirit and actions have not been such that God could say to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] When the heavenly eyesalve is applied to his eyes, he will see his course as it really is. He will see that some phases of the work are just as much opposed to the teachings of the gospel as are the works of the enemies of the cross of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 126, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 126, 1900, par. 19
If you will to will and to do the good pleasure of God, that you may make a record of which you shall not be ashamed, you will give yourself with undivided interest to the solemn realities of the work. Your eternal interest, your safety, your present happiness, usefulness, and ultimate victory, call upon you to put to the tax to use diligently, all the grace you have received, that you may impart without stint. Then you will receive larger fulness and be deemed worthy of still larger displays of divine goodness to reveal and impart to others grace for grace. You may in all things grow up into Jesus Christ your living Head. You may secure for yourself a future record worthy of the Saviour’s 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.]