EGW WritingsMatthew 3

The Review and Herald

November 25, 1909

RH November 25, 1909, par. 17

Mrs. White spoke in the tent on Sabbath forenoon, June 19, dwelling upon the experiences of Christ at His baptism, and during His severe temptations in the wilderness, as recorded in the Matthew 3:1 and Matthew 4:1. In response to an invitation for all who desired to do so to signify their reconsecration to the master’s service, practically the entire congregation arose.

Maranatha

Preaching With Power, April 18

Mar 116.1

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:1, 2, R.S.V.

Mar 116.4

With no elaborate arguments or finespun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. With a new, strange power it moved the people. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness....

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Coming Prince, September 7

JNN 265.1

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”—Matthew 3:1, 2

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 1—Our Work

8T 9.1

What is our work? The same as that given to John the Baptist, of whom we read: “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:1-3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 199, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 199, 1903, par. 1

What is our work? The same as that given to John the Baptist, of whom we read, “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is He that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:1-3.]

Conflict and Courage

A Straight Message, September 23

CC 272.1

Prepare to meet thy God, O Israel. Amos 4:12, last part.

CC 272.2

John the Baptist in his desert life was taught of God. He studied the revelations of God in nature. Under the guiding of the divine Spirit, he studied the scrolls of the prophets. By day and by night, Christ was his study, his meditation, until mind and heart and soul were filled with the glorious vision. He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was lost sight of. He beheld the majesty of holiness, and knew himself to be inefficient and unworthy. It was God’s message that he was to declare. It was in God’s power and His righteousness that he was to stand. He was ready to go forth as Heaven’s messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine....

CC 272.3

With no elaborate arguments or fine-spun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” ... Unlearned peasants and fishermen from the surrounding country; the Roman soldiers from the barracks of Herod; chieftains with their swords at their sides, ready to put down anything that might savor of rebellion; the avaricious tax-gatherers from their toll-booths; and from the Sanhedrim the phylactered priests,—all listened as if spellbound; and all ... went away ... cut to the heart with a sense of their sins....

CC 272.4

In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, such a work as that of John is to be done. God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord.... As a people who believe in Christ’s soon coming, we have a message to bear,—“prepare to meet thy God.” Our message must be as direct as was the message of John. He rebuked kings for their iniquity. Notwithstanding that his life was imperiled, he did not hesitate to declare God’s word. And our work in this age must be done as faithfully.

CC 272.5

In order to give such a message as John gave, we must have a spiritual experience like his. The same work must be wrought in us. We must behold God, and in beholding Him, lose sight of self.36Gospel Workers, 54, 55.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 145, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, par. 3

“Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Matthew 3:1-6.]

Conflict and Courage

Ready to Step Aside, September 25

CC 274.1

Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. John 1:29.

CC 274.2

For a time the Baptist’s influence over the nation had been greater than that of its rulers, priests, or princes. If he had announced himself as the Messiah, and raised a revolt against Rome, priests and people would have flocked to his standard. Every consideration that appeals to the ambition of the world’s conquerors Satan had stood ready to urge upon John the Baptist. But with the evidence before him of his power, he had steadfastly refused the splendid bribe. The attention which was fixed upon him he had directed to Another. Now he saw the tide of popularity turning away from himself to the Saviour. Day by day the crowds about him lessened....

CC 274.3

The disciples of John came to him ... saying, “Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou bearest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.” Through these words, Satan brought temptation upon John. Though John’s mission seemed about to close, it was still possible for him to hinder the work of Christ. If he had sympathized with himself, and expressed grief or disappointment at being superseded, he would have sown the seeds of dissension, would have encouraged envy and jealousy, and would seriously have impeded the progress of the gospel.

CC 274.4

John had by nature the faults and weaknesses common to humanity, but the touch of divine love had transformed him. He dwelt in an atmosphere uncontaminated with selfishness and ambition, and far above the miasma of jealousy.... It was his joy to witness the success of the Saviour’s work....

CC 274.5

Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God. He himself had been only a voice, a cry in the wilderness. Now with joy he accepted silence and obscurity that the eyes of all might be turned to the Light of life. Those who are true to their calling as messengers for God will not seek honor for themselves. Love for self will be swallowed up in love for Christ.38The Desire of Ages, 178, 179.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 10—The Voice in the Wilderness

HLv 57.1

From among the faithful in Israel the forerunner of Christ arose. The aged priest Zacharias and his wife Elisabeth were “both righteous before God,” and in their quiet lives the light of faith shone out like a star amid the darkness. To this godly pair was given the promise of a son, who should “go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.”

HLv 57.2

Zacharias had gone to Jerusalem to minister for one week in the temple. Standing before the golden altar in the holy place of the sanctuary, suddenly he became conscious of an angel of the Lord “standing on the right side of the altar.” For years he had prayed for the coming of the Redeemer; now these prayers were about to be answered.

HLv 57.3

He was greeted with the joyful assurance: “Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John... . He shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost... . And he shall go before Him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.”

HLv 57.4

For a moment the aged priest forgot that what God promises, He is able to perform. What a contrast between his unbelief and the faith of Mary, whose answer to the angel’s announcement was, “Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38, RSV.

HLv 58.1

The birth of a son to Zacharias, like the birth of the child of Abraham, and that of Mary, was to teach a great truth: that which we cannot do will be wrought by the power of God in every believing soul. Through faith the child of promise was given. Through faith spiritual life is begotten, and we are enabled to do the works of righteousness.

HLv 58.2

Five hundred years before, the angel Gabriel had made known to Daniel the prophetic period which was to extend to the coming of Christ. The knowledge that the end of this period was near had moved Zacharias to pray for the Messiah’s advent. Now, the very same angel through whom the prophecy was given had come to announce its fulfillment.

HLv 58.3

Zacharias had expressed doubt of the angel’s words. He was not to speak again until they were fulfilled. “Behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things come to pass, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” RSV. It was the duty of the priest in this service to pray for pardon of sins and for the coming of the Messiah; but when Zacharias attempted to do this, he could not utter a word. As he came forth from the holy place, his face was shining with the glory of God, and the people “perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple.” Zacharias “remained dumb” but through “signs” (RSV) communicated to them what he had seen and heard.

HLv 58.4

Soon after the birth of the promised child, the father’s tongue was loosed. “And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea; and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, ‘What then will this child be?’” RSV. All this called attention to the Messiah’s coming.

HLv 59.1

The Holy Spirit rested upon Zacharias, and he prophesied of the mission of his son:

Thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest:
For thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways; ...
To give knowledge of salvation unto His people
By the remission of their sins.

HLv 59.2

“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel.” God had called the son of Zacharias to the greatest work ever committed to men. And the Spirit of God would be with him if he heeded the instruction of the angel.

HLv 59.3

John was to bring to men the light of God. He must impress them with their need of His righteousness. Such a messenger must be holy, a temple for the indwelling Spirit of God. He must have a sound physical constitution, and mental and spiritual strength. Therefore it would be necessary for him to control the appetites and passions.

HLv 59.4

In the time of John the Baptist, greed for riches and the love of luxury and display had become widespread. Sensuous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were causing physical degeneracy, benumbing spiritual perceptions, and lessening the sensibility to sin. John was to stand as a reformer. By his abstemious life and plain dress he was to rebuke the excesses of his time. Hence the lesson of temperance given to his parents by an angel from the throne of heaven.

HLv 59.5

In childhood and youth the power of self-control should be acquired. Habits established in early years decide whether a man will be victorious or vanquished in the battle of life. Youth, the sowing time, determines the character of the harvest, for this life and for the life to come.

HLv 60.1

In the natural order of things the son of Zacharias would have been educated in the rabbinical schools. But since this would have unfitted him for his work, God called him to the desert, that he might learn of nature and nature’s God.

HLv 60.2

John found his home in the barren hills, wild ravines, and rocky caves. Here his surroundings were favorable to habits of simplicity and self-denial. Here he could study the lessons of nature, of revelation, and of Providence. From childhood his mission had been kept before him by his God-fearing parents, and he had accepted the holy trust. The solitude of the desert was a welcome escape from society in which unbelief and impurity had become well-nigh all-pervading. He shrank from constant contact with sin lest he lose the sense of its exceeding sinfulness.

HLv 60.3

But the life of John was not spent in ascetic gloom or selfish isolation. From time to time he went forth to mingle with men, ever an interested observer of what was passing in the world. Illuminated by the divine Spirit he studied men to understand how to reach their hearts with the message of heaven. The burden of his mission was on him. By meditation and prayer he sought to gird up his soul for the life work before him.

HLv 60.4

Although in the wilderness, he was not exempt from temptation. He was assailed by the tempter, but his spiritual perceptions were clear, and through the Holy Spirit he was able to detect and resist Satan’s approaches.

HLv 61.1

Like Moses amid the mountains of Midian, John was shut in by God’s presence. The gloomy and terrible aspect of nature in his wilderness home vividly pictured the condition of Israel. The vineyard of the Lord had become a desolate waste. But above, the dark clouds were arched by the rainbow of promise.

HLv 61.2

Alone in the silent night he read God’s promise to Abraham of a seed numberless as the stars. The light of dawn told of Him who should be as “the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds.” 2 Samuel 23:4. And in the brightness of noontide he saw the splendor when “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.” Isaiah 40:5.

HLv 61.3

With awed yet exultant spirit he searched in the prophetic scrolls the revelations of the Messiah’s coming. Shiloh was to appear before a king should cease to reign on David’s throne. Now the time had come. A Roman ruler sat in the palace on Mount Zion. By the sure word of the Lord, already the Christ was born.

HLv 61.4

Isaiah’s rapt portrayals of the Messiah’s glory were his study by day and by night. See Isaiah 11:4; 32:2; 62:4. The heart of the lonely exile was filled with the glorious vision. He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was forgotten. He beheld the majesty of holiness and felt himself to be inefficient and unworthy. He was ready to go forth as Heaven’s messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine. He could stand fearless in the presence of earthly monarchs, because he had bowed low before the King of kings.

HLv 61.5

John did not fully understand the nature of the Messiah’s kingdom, but the coming of a King in righteousness and the establishment of Israel as a holy nation, was the great object of his hope.

HLv 62.1

He saw his people self-satisfied and asleep in their sins. The message God had given him was to startle them from their lethargy. Before the seed of the gospel could find lodgment, the soil of the heart must be broken up. Before they would seek healing from Jesus, they must be awakened to their danger from the wounds of sin.

HLv 62.2

God does not send messengers to lull the unsanctified into fatal security. He lays heavy burdens on the conscience of the wrongdoer and pierces the soul with arrows of conviction. Ministering angels present the fearful judgments of God to deepen the sense of need. Then the hand that has humbled in the dust lifts up the penitent.

HLv 62.3

When the ministry of John began, the nation was verging on revolution. At the removal of Archelaus, Judea had been brought directly under the control of Rome. The tyranny and extortion of the Roman governors, and their efforts to introduce heathen symbols and customs, kindled revolt, which had been quenched in the blood of thousands of the bravest of Israel.

HLv 62.4

Amid discord and strife, a voice was heard from the wilderness, startling and stern yet full of hope: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” With a new, strange power it moved the people. Here was an announcement that the coming of Christ was at hand. With the spirit and power of Elijah, John denounced the national corruption and rebuked the prevailing sins. His words were pointed and convincing. The nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.

HLv 62.5

John called the people to repentance. As a symbol of cleansing from sin, he baptized them in the waters of the Jordan. Thus he declared that those who claimed to be the chosen people of God were defiled by sin. Without purification of heart they could have no part in the Messiah’s kingdom.

HLv 62.6

Princes and rabbis, soldiers, publicans, and peasants came to hear the prophet. Many were brought to repentance and received baptism in order to participate in the kingdom he announced.

HLv 63.1

Many scribes and Pharisees came confessing their sins and asking for baptism. They had led the people to entertain a high opinion of their piety; now the guilty secrets of their lives were unveiled. But John was impressed that many of these men had no real conviction of sin. They were timeservers. As friends of the prophet, they hoped to find favor with the coming Prince. And by receiving baptism they thought to strengthen their influence with the people.

HLv 63.2

John met them with the scathing inquiry, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit that befits repentance.” RSV. Because the Jews had separated themselves from God, they were suffering under His judgments. This was the cause of their bondage to a heathen nation. Because in times past the Lord had shown them great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men and entitled to His blessings.

HLv 63.3

John declared to the teachers of Israel that their pride, selfishness, and cruelty showed them to be a deadly curse to the people. In view of the light they had received from God, they were even worse than the heathen. God was not dependent on them for fulfilling His purpose. He could call others to His service.

HLv 63.4

“And now,” said the prophet, “the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” If the fruit is worthless, the name cannot save the tree from destruction. John declared to the Jews that if their life and character were not in harmony with God’s law, they were not His people.

HLv 63.5

All who became subjects of Christ’s kingdom, he said, would give evidence of faith and repentance. Kindness and fidelity would be seen in their lives. They would minister to the needy, shield the defenseless, and give an example of virtue and compassion.

HLv 64.1

“I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” RSV. Isaiah had declared that the Lord would cleanse His people “by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.” Isaiah 4:4.

HLv 64.2

In all who submit to His power, the Spirit of God will consume sin. See Hebrews 12:29. But if men cling to sin, then the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them. At the second advent of Christ the wicked shall be consumed “with the Spirit of His mouth,” and destroyed “with the brightness of His coming.” 2 Thessalonians 2:8. The glory of God which imparts life to the righteous will slay the wicked.

HLv 64.3

In the time of John the Baptist, Christ was about to appear as the revealer of the character of God. His very presence would make manifest to men their sin. Only as they were willing to be purged from sin could they enter into fellowship with Him.

HLv 64.4

Thus the Baptist declared God’s message to Israel. Many gave heed and sacrificed all in order to obey. Not a few cherished the hope that he might be the Messiah. But as John saw the people turning to him, he sought every opportunity of directing their faith to Him who was to come.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 10—The Voice in the Wilderness

DA 97.1

From among the faithful in Israel, who had long waited for the coming of the Messiah, the forerunner of Christ arose. The aged priest Zacharias and his wife Elisabeth were “both righteous before God;” and in their quiet and holy lives the light of faith shone out like a star amid the darkness of those evil days. To this godly pair was given the promise of a son, who should “go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.”

DA 97.2

Zacharias dwelt in “the hill country of Judea,” but he had gone up to Jerusalem to minister for one week in the temple, a service required twice a year from the priests of each course. “And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course, according to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.”

DA 97.3

He was standing before the golden altar in the holy place of the sanctuary. The cloud of incense with the prayers of Israel was ascending before God. Suddenly he became conscious of a divine presence. An angel of the Lord was “standing on the right side of the altar.” The position of the angel was an indication of favor, but Zacharias took no note of this. For many years he had prayed for the coming of the Redeemer; now heaven had sent its messenger to announce that these prayers were about to be answered; but the mercy of God seemed too great for him to credit. He was filled with fear and self-condemnation.

DA 98.1

But he was greeted with the joyful assurance: “Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.... And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. And he shall go before Him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.”

DA 98.2

Zacharias well knew how to Abraham in his old age a child was given because he believed Him faithful who had promised. But for a moment the aged priest turns his thought to the weakness of humanity. He forgets that what God has promised, He is able to perform. What a contrast between this unbelief and the sweet, childlike faith of Mary, the maiden of Nazareth, whose answer to the angel’s wonderful announcement was, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word”! Luke 1:38.

DA 98.3

The birth of a son to Zacharias, like the birth of the child of Abraham, and that of Mary, was to teach a great spiritual truth, a truth that we are slow to learn and ready to forget. In ourselves we are incapable of doing any good thing; but that which we cannot do will be wrought by the power of God in every submissive and believing soul. It was through faith that the child of promise was given. It is through faith that spiritual life is begotten, and we are enabled to do the works of righteousness.

DA 98.4

To the question of Zacharias, the angel said, “I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings.” Five hundred years before, Gabriel had made known to Daniel the prophetic period which was to extend to the coming of Christ. The knowledge that the end of this period was near had moved Zacharias to pray for the Messiah’s advent. Now the very messenger through whom the prophecy was given had come to announce its fulfillment.

DA 99.1

The words of the angel, “I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God,” show that he holds a position of high honor in the heavenly courts. When he came with a message to Daniel, he said, “There is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael [Christ] your Prince.” Daniel 10:21. Of Gabriel the Saviour speaks in the Revelation, saying that “He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John.” Revelation 1:1. And to John the angel declared, “I am a fellow servant with thee and with thy brethren the prophets.” Revelation 22:9, R. V. Wonderful thought—that the angel who stands next in honor to the Son of God is the one chosen to open the purposes of God to sinful men.

DA 99.2

Zacharias had expressed doubt of the angel’s words. He was not to speak again until they were fulfilled. “Behold,” said the angel, “thou shalt be dumb, ... until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.” It was the duty of the priest in this service to pray for the pardon of public and national sins, and for the coming of the Messiah; but when Zacharias attempted to do this, he could not utter a word.

DA 99.3

Coming forth to bless the people, “he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.” They had waited long, and had begun to fear, lest he had been cut down by the judgment of God. But as he came forth from the holy place, his face was shining with the glory of God, “and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple.” Zacharias communicated to them what he had seen and heard; and “as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.”

DA 99.4

Soon after the birth of the promised child, the father’s tongue was loosed, “and he spake, and praised God. And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be!” All this tended to call attention to the Messiah’s coming, for which John was to prepare the way.

DA 100.1

The Holy Spirit rested upon Zacharias, and in these beautiful words he prophesied of the mission of his son:

DA 100.2

“Thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest;
For thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways;
To give knowledge of salvation unto His people
By the remission of their sins,
Through the tender mercy of our God,
Whereby the Dayspring from on high hath visited us,
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of
death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.”

DA 100.3

“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel.” Before the birth of John, the angel had said, “He shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.” God had called the son of Zacharias to a great work, the greatest ever committed to men. In order to accomplish this work, he must have the Lord to work with him. And the Spirit of God would be with him if he heeded the instruction of the angel.

DA 100.4

John was to go forth as Jehovah’s messenger, to bring to men the light of God. He must give a new direction to their thoughts. He must impress them with the holiness of God’s requirements, and their need of His perfect righteousness. Such a messenger must be holy. He must be a temple for the indwelling Spirit of God. In order to fulfill his mission, he must have a sound physical constitution, and mental and spiritual strength. Therefore it would be necessary for him to control the appetites and passions. He must be able so to control all his powers that he could stand among men as unmoved by surrounding circumstances as the rocks and mountains of the wilderness.

DA 100.5

In the time of John the Baptist, greed for riches, and the love of luxury and display had become widespread. Sensuous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were causing physical disease and degeneracy, benumbing the spiritual perceptions, and lessening the sensibility to sin. John was to stand as a reformer. By his abstemious life and plain dress he was to rebuke the excesses of his time. Hence the directions given to the parents of John,—a lesson of temperance by an angel from the throne of heaven.

DA 101.1

In childhood and youth the character is most impressible. The power of self-control should then be acquired. By the fireside and at the family board influences are exerted whose results are as enduring as eternity. More than any natural endowment, the habits established in early years decide whether a man will be victorious or vanquished in the battle of life. Youth is the sowing time. It determines the character of the harvest, for this life and for the life to come.

DA 101.2

As a prophet, John was “to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” In preparing the way for Christ’s first advent, he was a representative of those who are to prepare a people for our Lord’s second coming. The world is given to self-indulgence. Errors and fables abound. Satan’s snares for destroying souls are multiplied. All who would perfect holiness in the fear of God must learn the lessons of temperance and self-control. The appetites and passions must be held in subjection to the higher powers of the mind. This self-discipline is essential to that mental strength and spiritual insight which will enable us to understand and to practice the sacred truths of God’s word. For this reason temperance finds its place in the work of preparation for Christ’s second coming.

DA 101.3

In the natural order of things, the son of Zacharias would have been educated for the priesthood. But the training of the rabbinical schools would have unfitted him for his work. God did not send him to the teachers of theology to learn how to interpret the Scriptures. He called him to the desert, that he might learn of nature and nature’s God.

DA 101.4

It was a lonely region where he found his home, in the midst of barren hills, wild ravines, and rocky caves. But it was his choice to forgo the enjoyments and luxuries of life for the stern discipline of the wilderness. Here his surroundings were favorable to habits of simplicity and self-denial. Uninterrupted by the clamor of the world, he could here study the lessons of nature, of revelation, and of Providence. The words of the angel to Zacharias had been often repeated to John by his God-fearing parents. From childhood his mission had been kept before him, and he had accepted the holy trust. To him the solitude of the desert was a welcome escape from society in which suspicion, unbelief, and impurity had become well-nigh all-pervading. He distrusted his own power to withstand temptation, and shrank from constant contact with sin, lest he should lose the sense of its exceeding sinfulness.

DA 102.1

Dedicated to God as a Nazarite from his birth, he made the vow his own in a life-long consecration. His dress was that of the ancient prophets, a garment of camel’s hair, confined by a leather girdle. He ate the “locusts and wild honey” found in the wilderness, and drank the pure water from the hills.

DA 102.2

But the life of John was not spent in idleness, in ascetic gloom, or in selfish isolation. From time to time he went forth to mingle with men; and he was ever an interested observer of what was passing in the world. From his quiet retreat he watched the unfolding of events. With vision illuminated by the divine Spirit he studied the characters of men, that he might understand how to reach their hearts with the message of heaven. The burden of his mission was upon him. In solitude, by meditation and prayer, he sought to gird up his soul for the lifework before him.

DA 102.3

Although in the wilderness, he was not exempt from temptation. So far as possible, he closed every avenue by which Satan could enter, yet he was still assailed by the tempter. But his spiritual perceptions were clear; he had developed strength and decision of character, and through the aid of the Holy Spirit he was able to detect Satan’s approaches, and to resist his power.

DA 102.4

John found in the wilderness his school and his sanctuary. Like Moses amid the mountains of Midian, he was shut in by God’s presence, and surrounded by the evidences of His power. It was not his lot to dwell, as did Israel’s great leader, amid the solemn majesty of the mountain solitudes; but before him were the heights of Moab, beyond Jordan, speaking of Him who had set fast the mountains, and girded them with strength. The gloomy and terrible aspect of nature in his wilderness home vividly pictured the condition of Israel. The fruitful vineyard of the Lord had become a desolate waste. But above the desert the heavens bent bright and beautiful. The clouds that gathered, dark with tempest, were arched by the rainbow of promise. So above Israel’s degradation shone the promised glory of the Messiah’s reign. The clouds of wrath were spanned by the rainbow of His covenant-mercy.

DA 102.5

Alone in the silent night he read God’s promise to Abraham of a seed numberless as the stars. The light of dawn, gilding the mountains of Moab, told of Him who should be as “the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds.” 2 Samuel 23:4. And in the brightness of noontide he saw the splendor of His manifestation, when “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.” Isaiah 40:5.

DA 103.1

With awed yet exultant spirit he searched in the prophetic scrolls the revelations of the Messiah’s coming,—the promised seed that should bruise the serpent’s head; Shiloh, “the peace giver,” who was to appear before a king should cease to reign on David’s throne. Now the time had come. A Roman ruler sat in the palace upon Mount Zion. By the sure word of the Lord, already the Christ was born.

DA 103.2

Isaiah’s rapt portrayals of the Messiah’s glory were his study by day and by night,—the Branch from the root of Jesse; a King to reign in righteousness, judging “with equity for the meek of the earth;” “a covert from the tempest; ... the shadow of a great rock in a weary land;” Israel no longer to be termed “Forsaken,” nor her land “Desolate,” but to be called of the Lord, “My Delight,” and her land “Beulah.” Isaiah 11:4; 32:2; 62:4, margin. The heart of the lonely exile was filled with the glorious vision.

DA 103.3

He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was forgotten. He beheld the majesty of holiness, and felt himself to be inefficient and unworthy. He was ready to go forth as Heaven’s messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine. He could stand erect and fearless in the presence of earthly monarchs, because he had bowed low before the King of kings.

DA 103.4

John did not fully understand the nature of the Messiah’s kingdom. He looked for Israel to be delivered from her national foes; but the coming of a King in righteousness, and the establishment of Israel as a holy nation, was the great object of his hope. Thus he believed would be accomplished the prophecy given at his birth,—

DA 103.5

“To remember His holy covenant; ...
That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies
Might serve Him without fear,
In holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our
life.”

DA 103.6

He saw his people deceived, self-satisfied, and asleep in their sins. He longed to rouse them to a holier life. The message that God had given him to bear was designed to startle them from their lethargy, and cause them to tremble because of their great wickedness. Before the seed of the gospel could find lodgment, the soil of the heart must be broken up. Before they would seek healing from Jesus, they must be awakened to their danger from the wounds of sin.

DA 104.1

God does not send messengers to flatter the sinner. He delivers no message of peace to lull the unsanctified into fatal security. He lays heavy burdens upon the conscience of the wrongdoer, and pierces the soul with arrows of conviction. The ministering angels present to him the fearful judgments of God to deepen the sense of need, and prompt the cry, “What must I do to be saved?” Then the hand that has humbled in the dust, lifts up the penitent. The voice that has rebuked sin, and put to shame pride and ambition, inquires with tenderest sympathy, “What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?”

DA 104.2

When the ministry of John began, the nation was in a state of excitement and discontent verging on revolution. At the removal of Archelaus, Judea had been brought directly under the control of Rome. The tyranny and extortion of the Roman governors, and their determined efforts to introduce the heathen symbols and customs, kindled revolt, which had been quenched in the blood of thousands of the bravest of Israel. All this intensified the national hatred against Rome, and increased the longing to be freed from her power.

DA 104.3

Amid discord and strife, a voice was heard from the wilderness, a voice startling and stern, yet full of hope: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” With a new, strange power it moved the people. Prophets had foretold the coming of Christ as an event far in the future; but here was an announcement that it was at hand. John’s singular appearance carried the minds of his hearers back to the ancient seers. In his manner and dress he resembled the prophet Elijah. With the spirit and power of Elijah he denounced the national corruption, and rebuked the prevailing sins. His words were plain, pointed, and convincing. Many believed him to be one of the prophets risen from the dead. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.

DA 104.4

John proclaimed the coming of the Messiah, and called the people to repentance. As a symbol of cleansing from sin, he baptized them in the waters of the Jordan. Thus by a significant object lesson he declared that those who claimed to be the chosen people of God were defiled by sin, and that without purification of heart and life they could have no part in the Messiah’s kingdom.

DA 105.1

Princes and rabbis, soldiers, publicans, and peasants came to hear the prophet. For a time the solemn warning from God alarmed them. Many were brought to repentance, and received baptism. Persons of all ranks submitted to the requirement of the Baptist, in order to participate in the kingdom he announced.

DA 105.2

Many of the scribes and Pharisees came confessing their sins, and asking for baptism. They had exalted themselves as better than other men, and had led the people to entertain a high opinion of their piety; now the guilty secrets of their lives were unveiled. But John was impressed by the Holy Spirit that many of these men had no real conviction of sin. They were timeservers. As friends of the prophet, they hoped to find favor with the coming Prince. And by receiving baptism at the hands of this popular young teacher, they thought to strengthen their influence with the people.

DA 105.3

John met them with the scathing inquiry, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.”

DA 106.1

The Jews had misinterpreted God’s promise of eternal favor to Israel: “Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The Lord of hosts is His name: If those ordinances depart from before Me, saith the Lord, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before Me forever. Thus saith the Lord; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 31:35-37. The Jews regarded their natural descent from Abraham as giving them a claim to this promise. But they overlooked the conditions which God had specified. Before giving the promise, He had said, “I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people.... For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” Jeremiah 31:33, 34.

DA 106.2

To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves from God. Because of their sins they were suffering under His judgments. This was the cause of their bondage to a heathen nation. Their minds were darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown them so great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men, and entitled to His blessings.

DA 106.3

These things “are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.” 1 Corinthians 10:11. How often we misinterpret God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do. His gifts are used to increase our self-satisfaction, and to harden our hearts in unbelief and sin.

DA 106.4

John declared to the teachers of Israel that their pride, selfishness, and cruelty showed them to be a generation of vipers, a deadly curse to the people, rather than the children of just and obedient Abraham. In view of the light they had received from God, they were even worse than the heathen, to whom they felt so much superior. They had forgotten the rock whence they were hewn, and the hole of the pit from which they had been digged. God was not dependent upon them for the fulfilling of His purpose. As He had called Abraham out from a heathen people, so He could call others to His service. Their hearts might now appear as lifeless as the stones of the desert, but His Spirit could quicken them to do His will, and receive the fulfillment of His promise.

DA 107.1

“And now also,” said the prophet, “the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” Not by its name, but by its fruit, is the value of a tree determined. If the fruit is worthless, the name cannot save the tree from destruction. John declared to the Jews that their standing before God was to be decided by their character and life. Profession was worthless. If their life and character were not in harmony with God’s law, they were not His people.

DA 107.2

Under his heart-searching words, his hearers were convicted. They came to him with the inquiry, “What shall we do then?” He answered, “He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.” And he warned the publicans against injustice, and the soldiers against violence.

DA 107.3

All who became the subjects of Christ’s kingdom, he said, would give evidence of faith and repentance. Kindness, honesty, and fidelity would be seen in their lives. They would minister to the needy, and bring their offerings to God. They would shield the defenseless, and give an example of virtue and compassion. So the followers of Christ will give evidence of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. In the daily life, justice, mercy, and the love of God will be seen. Otherwise they are like the chaff that is given to the fire.

DA 107.4

“I indeed baptize you in water unto repentance,” said John; “but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.” Matthew 3:11, R. V., margin. The prophet Isaiah had declared that the Lord would cleanse His people from their iniquities “by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.” The word of the Lord to Israel was, “I will turn My hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin.” Isaiah 4:4; 1:25. To sin, wherever found, “our God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:29. In all who submit to His power the Spirit of God will consume sin. But if men cling to sin, they become identified with it. Then the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them. Jacob, after his night of wrestling with the Angel, exclaimed, “I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” Genesis 32:30. Jacob had been guilty of a great sin in his conduct toward Esau; but he had repented. His transgression had been forgiven, and his sin purged; therefore he could endure the revelation of God’s presence. But wherever men came before God while willfully cherishing evil, they were destroyed. At the second advent of Christ the wicked shall be consumed “with the Spirit of His mouth,” and destroyed “with the brightness of His coming.” 2 Thessalonians 2:8. The light of the glory of God, which imparts life to the righteous, will slay the wicked.

DA 108.1

In the time of John the Baptist, Christ was about to appear as the revealer of the character of God. His very presence would make manifest to men their sin. Only as they were willing to be purged from sin could they enter into fellowship with Him. Only the pure in heart could abide in His presence.

DA 108.2

Thus the Baptist declared God’s message to Israel. Many gave heed to his instruction. Many sacrificed all in order to obey. Multitudes followed this new teacher from place to place, and not a few cherished the hope that he might be the Messiah. But as John saw the people turning to him, he sought every opportunity of directing their faith to Him who was to come.

From Heaven With Love

Zacharias Doubted

HLv 59.6

In preparing the way for Christ’s first advent John was a representative of those who prepare a people for our Lord’s second coming. The world is given to self indulgence. Errors and fables abound. All who would perfect holiness in the fear of God must learn temperance and self-control. See 2 Corinthians 7:1. The appetites and passions must be held in subjection to the higher powers of the mind. This self-discipline is essential to that mental strength and spiritual insight which enable us to understand and practice the truths of God’s Word.

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

MR No. 944—Luther Warren and Work in New York City

12MR 99.4

Think you not that Christ was often homesick as, unrecognized and unhonored, He lived in the world that He Himself had made. Who was He? Ask Isaiah, he will tell you: [Isaiah 9:6; 63:1 quoted.] Ask him who was sent to announce His coming: [Matthew 3:1, 2, 11, 12 quoted.] Ask John, the beloved disciple: [John 1:1, 4, 14 quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 104, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 104, 1902, par. 10

Ask him who was sent to announce His coming: “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. ... I indeed baptize you with water, but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire; whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:1, 2, 11, 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 117, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, par. 6

All the efforts of man to prevent the fulfilment of the Word of God are unavailing. Of John the Baptist’s work we read, “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. ... Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said to them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father; for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire; whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:1-3, 5-12.]

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 22—The Imprisonment and Death of John

HLv 137.3

John the Baptist expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed. He had looked for the high places of human pride and power to be cast down. The Messiah would thoroughly purge His floor, gather the wheat into His garner, and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. See Isaiah 40; Matthew 3. Like Elijah, he looked for the Lord to reveal Himself as a God who would answer by fire.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 141, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, par. 1

... those who take up this work in a humble way to study the third and fourth chapters of Matthew—the record of Christ’s anointing for His mission, and His temptation in the wilderness. After His long fast and severe conflict, Christ lay like one dying on the field of battle. It was then that angels came and ministered to Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 115, 1909

New York City, New York

June 19, 1909

Previously unpublished.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 1

One week ago I spoke to the people where there was a small house of worship. Two hundred people collected, but the house had not proper ventilation, and after speaking one hour, we dispersed. I have not had that health and strength since to stand in the desk before today. We must have good air to breathe, but we had not the air that day. How many were injured by the close atmosphere, I know not. We must make every effort to have fresh air.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 2

(Matthew 3) chapter. “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Verses 1-6.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 3

We see the necessity of the steps taken to identify ourselves with Jesus Christ. We are to forsake sins, then to go down into the water and to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 4

“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down.” [Verses 7-10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 5

Understand this, a profession is not enough. Let every one understand it is the possession of the Holy Spirit of God that we receive, that we retain through obedience, that numbers us and owns us in the heavenly courts as children of God.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 6

“And now also the ax is laid unto the roots of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire.” [Verse 10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 7

Now, a false profession is not worth anything. Unless the life of Christ is brought into the soul, unless the heart is brought into the state of humility that will make us to be obedient to the words of Christ, teachable to His word and practice, why then, baptism does not amount to anything. We are to live our baptism. We are to show that we have unity with Jesus Christ and that we have identified our interest with Christ through baptism, to live a new life under God.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 8

“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier that I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Verses 11, 12.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 9

Now we have the two lives presented, a supposition life and we have the true life, and if we suppose that we are children of God, and carry along our own dispositions—we are not humble, we are not meek and lowly, we are not representatives of Jesus Christ in character—why then we shall find our baptism will not save any of us. Do we live out the faith that we claim when we are led down into the water and receive baptism, and are brought up out of the water? Why, then we are to walk in newness of life. That is the representation that is to be given to the world.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 10

“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.” [Verse 11.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 11

Well, now we want such a baptism as that to be honored every day of our lives. We cannot afford to be loose and careless and worldly minded, after we have received such a baptism as is here represented.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 12

“Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner: but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and cometh thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he suffered him. [Verses 12-15.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 13

“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water; and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 14

“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungered. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” [Verses 16, 17; 4:1-3.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 15

What would He do, if He should obey the suggestion of Satan? He puts an “if” in there. Satan raises a doubt whether He is the Son of God. But He answered and said, “It is written.” He does not go over and repeat the argument of Satan—and I wish every body would remember this when they are assailed by doubt and begin to argue and begin to dissect it. Why, they have given the enemy the right of way. We are not to give the enemy the right of way—not at all. It is granted, Christ is the Son of the living God. We are His children and we are to follow every example He has left in His Word.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 16

“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” [Verse 4.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 17

Well that tells everything to us. Some come to me, “What can I do, Sister White? What can I do that I may live the religious life?” I take them right over this ground. I tell them it is just as simple—a little child can understand it, if they want to.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 18

“Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on the pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee; and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” [Verses 5, 6.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 19

You see the “if.” If Christ should take up his temptations and repeat them and answer them, He gives the doubt, He accepts the doubt. It won’t answer for any of us to do that.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 20

“If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee; and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” [Verse 6.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 21

Well now, what did he leave out there? “He shall give his angels charge concerning thee in all his ways.” All the ways that God leads Him, not to go on the tramps of Satan, to follow his temptations, and, “in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” [Psalm 91:11, 12.] There was the temptation. And let me tell you, men who think themselves very wise are very foolish to repeat the temptations of the enemy, and repeat them and repeat them. We will have nothing to do with them. Go right on and voice the truth with all the strength of your being.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 22

“Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Matthew 4:7.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 23

By showing him, giving him an evidence. Why, we are not to do any such thing.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 24

“Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 25

“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan.” He lets him know that He is acquainted with his character. “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verses 8-10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 26

How many of us believe that? How may in their Christian experience, in their worship of God, make God first, the best, and all and in all? Here He says, “Get thee hence Satan.” [Verse 10.] He rebukes him right there, notwithstanding he presents before Him the whole kingdoms of the world, if He would serve him. Well, the whole kingdoms of the world were not his to give. But the Lord Jesus always takes the affirmative. The affirmative of righteousness, the affirmative of the power of reasoning. He takes the affirmative. If many of us would stop our getting into argument with infidels, and with those who do not live the righteousness of Christ, if we would follow the example of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, why then we would be on safe vantage ground and the enemy could not touch us. Will we think of this? Don’t, I beg of you get into controversy with Satan. Go right on and advance a higher truth. Go right on and proclaim a higher truth.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 27

“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 28

Do we know how much that comprehends? There are but very few that consider it. They can consider many things, but when it comes to the very points that they should consider, they let the enemy come in and lead them, and lead them into controversy. They have given themselves into his power. Don’t get into controversy with those who will only sap your strength, but make an advanced assertion, make an advanced appeal of the future life. If we could have just genuine common sense, when we do take up the subject that is of such intense interest to us, we should find churches everywhere that are strong and efficient and could be trusted in every respect, anywhere, to lead the people. What we want is leaders. We want leaders—those that will stand by the truth as firm as a rock and that will not be misled.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 29

“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 30

This means that when they come to Christ, that they are to demonstrate their faith in the profession that they have made, and have been baptized in the profession, and have been numbered as the children of the living God. And now here, “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 31

“Then the devil leaveth him: and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” [Verse 11.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 32

Forty days and forty nights without food and then He had to meet the wily foe that supposed he could get the victory. “Then the devil leaveth him and behold angels came and ministered unto him.” [Verse 11.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 33

Now when you are in those controversies with unbelievers, don’t go over their ground and repeat the very words that they say. Go right on and advance another point of truth, and another point of truth. Don’t stop, don’t give your time, don’t give your speech to even repeat the words that they repeat. The angels of God are watching every one of these controversies, and they don’t want you to be in a position to lose your faith. It is worth something to us to gain victories in the name of Him who our heavenly Father donated to the world. He gave His only begotten Son. For it says, that “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.” [John 3:16.] And how He suffered you know just how, if you have studied your Bibles.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 34

To be discarded and all this, what was it for? That man might with the capability of serving God be partakers of the divine nature. You think of that. With every temptation resisted, men become partakers of the divine nature, have overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust. Now what we want is the “ifs” and “ands” of what we are to be in our world, to let our light shine forth to the world in its bright rays, that we shall not be overcome with the temptations of the devil. How? Why, because you can be a partaker of the divine nature in Christ. That is what we are to be.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 35

In Christ it is our privilege to come to God and to lay hold of Him with living faith, and to say, “I believe in myself I can do nothing, but through the provision thou hast made, I believe that humanity can grasp divinity. I grasp it in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” Now that is the very work many neglect to do. What is at stake? Your souls.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 36

It meant something when God gave Christ to our world. It means everything to suffer. Christ to suffer, for Christ to suffer, Christ to pass over the ground that He passed over; and we want you to remember that now is the time for us to form characters for the future, eternal life; a life that measures with the life of God. Will you consider that?

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 37

Now he obtained no victory over Christ. But the temptation was so strong, lest there should be one word of intimation that He was not kept by the power of God through faith, that He fainted after His long fast. Did He die? No, no.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 38

“Then the devil leaveth him; and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” [Matthew 4:11.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 39

Well now, that is the lesson we are to learn. It is our privilege to carry the battle in the very same way and manner. In every point we are to consider how Christ stood firmly and yet in His weakness, forty days and forty nights without food and tempted of the devil. You just consider it. We want to know who in this congregation is determined to make a business of serving God. We want to know who will be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 40

Now the subject changes.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 41

“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles: The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of the death light is sprung up.” [Verses 12-16.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 42

Now here is what we want you to understand. And it seems we act as though we had not sufficient victories to gain. It is everything to us to gain victories every day over that temptation of the enemy. “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.” [Verse 16.] Yes, from the very light that Christ had brought them.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 43

“And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, And Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Verses 18, 19.] Well, they don’t stop and reason and bring up things why they cannot comply with the conditions.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 44

“And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their net, and followed him.” [Verses 19, 20.] And many would straightway leave if they could only understand the virtue of believing in, and walking in the footsteps of Christ Jesus.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 45

“And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.” [Verses 21, 22.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 46

Now, if we want, rays of light will shine upon our pathway, and we will recognize that light as coming from One that clothed His divinity with humanity; that laid aside His royal robe; that laid off His kingly attire and clothed himself with the simple garments of humanity, and came into our world in order that we may have an example, every one of us. Now obedience in these disciples is just what Christ wants to present.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 47

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people.” [Verse 23.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 48

“And his fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” [Verse 24.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 49

A mighty power had God given to the human family, but whoever you are, you can lay hold of Him by a simple faith and trust in His promises, and believe, and then what? Work out his salvation, just as the disciples were called to work out with Christ.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 50

“And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 51

“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him.” [Verse 25; 5:1.]

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 52

And then here is the lesson that He taught.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 53

(How long have I spoken? Answer, “Three-quarters of an hour.”)

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 54

Well, I will leave the rest of this. There is much that connects this with the living experience of those who will weigh the subject as they should, whether eternal life is of that value that they will accept the assertion of Christ and believe His words in simplicity spoken; whether they will accept these words and become converted. You will not be free from trials, for we have a devil that is full of humanity and weakness, and therefore we may expect temptations of the devil. When I speak to you again, I will carry that thought further.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 55

But I want to say to everyone here, as Christ has been given to our world, an immense sacrifice from heaven. As you trace His suffering life, nailed upon the cross of Calvary, with the nails driven through His hands and feet, no human being in our world could suffer any more than our Saviour suffered. Yet He had to hang His helpless soul, like any sinner, upon the very thing that God gave to our world. He follows out the suggestion, and it is for every one of us if you think you can get into heaven, with having the world, and pleasing the world, and glorifying the world, and let the things of the world come in and take possession of the mind, where is the representation of Christ? Where is the divinity, where is it? Why you don’t show it?

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 56

Well now, shall we look sensibly upon the plain, common, simple truths and teach them to our children? It is not the show, it is not the parade or any of these things that is going to bring us into covenant with God, but it is practicing the life that He has given us. We may act very loosely in this matter, but mind, every loose action weakens your hold upon Jesus Christ, and you cannot afford it, and neither can I. We want heaven, and we want it at any cost, because the Majesty of glory didn’t fail us in a single point, but carried the life right through. There He hung with the representation before Him of the sinner dammed, and He took the sinner’s portion, and He had taken it here in His representation of humanity.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 57

We are to act out as far as we possibly can, that we will understand that we must be partakers of the divine nature, if we shall be overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. And don’t let us stop and think we can indulge in this luxury and that luxury. All things in our dress that cost means, we want you to understand that that very means is needed in order to bring the truth to foreign countries, and to the world.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 58

I almost felt like weeping aloud as I came through the passage, only two hours’ ride, and I saw enough to convince me that there is reform work that is neglected. Missionary work is to be taken up in the name of Jesus Christ and then never, never drop back, but move right forward in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to work wherever we can. And when the trials come, for they will come, and you obtain the victory, you may know that the angels of God are right by your side, and are working with you to obtain that victory.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 59

So that victory is of highest value to you, because you can see that you are in connection with One that is fully capable of bringing you out conqueror, yea, more than conqueror, through Him that dost loveth you. We want now to begin to make earnest work. Day and night my mind is traveling. Day and night I am working up plans; what can I do to save the perishing souls out of Christ who don’t have a sense of that humanity? The great sacrifice was made that humanity might grasp divinity, and thus divinity gives us the victory as we lay hold of it by the living principle of works, and faith, and by the living testimony that we shall bear to the world.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 60

Now, I am not going to detain you any longer. But I want to say, I have felt intensely on these points. I want to know if there are those in this congregation, and I know there are by their countenances, I want to know who will stand with me in the battle. In November I shall be 82 years old, and I have been in the battle ever since I was 15 years old, and now I want to say I have no more thought of giving up the work than I had when God bid me go to work in His name, and He would be with me, and I know He has. I want to tell you, my dear friends, we have a living Saviour; we have an almighty power in Jesus Christ, and He will work out our salvation with us, and we may stand on vantage ground, if we will. But there are to be missionaries in such a congregation as this that will give themselves to the work of bringing the truth before the people. We are not to sit in our homes enjoying what has cost Christ so much. No, no; humanity must grasp divinity, and then push the battle to the gates. Push the battle at every step for souls to join the ranks on the Lord’s side.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 61

We want to know today who will, during this meeting, give themselves to most earnest effort to lead other lives, their own minds being led.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 62

The minds of children can be led. A little girl came to me, and she said, “Sister White, are you going to speak this afternoon?” “Why?” I said, “I only came from the desk.” She looked at the company; I think there was about a dozen. “I told them if they would come, they could understand every word you said, and that I could understand it.” I said, “Tomorrow morning is my time, bring all your class mates, sit right down in front, and if you do not understand everything I say, speak right up and ask me, and I will tell you what it is.” That seemed to satisfy her and she consented to give it up for that time.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 63

Here is the Word, the precious Word of God. It comes to us. Some one is talking of sending their children where they can get a higher education than what our schools can give them. Well, dear friends, they don’t know what higher education is. Why, just as soon as you accept the words of Christ you have the highest education that can ever be given to our world. He has given His life to bring that evidence to you. We want to know who will start with the commencement of this meeting and be determined they will seek the Lord through this meeting. How many will make an effort right here to give themselves to Him that gave His life on Calvary’s cross, the cruel nails driven through His hands, His side pierced, His face marred with the bruises they placed upon Him, while the contemptuously treated Him, and there He yielded up His life for us, and now I want to know who of us will be laborers together with God? Human agency is to be brought into the work—a hundredfold, a thousand hundredfold, is to be brought in, in order to do the work that is necessary.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 64

Now I ask you, will you make a determined effort during this meeting to act your part? In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, will you at this very meeting take a new hold and seek to help them, and then pray with them? And may we all have evidence that the Lord Jesus will be with us. If you will do this, will you rise up on your feet? Whoever will do it, whoever will take hold of it, rise up on your feet. (Congregation arose.)

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 65

[Praying:] “Heavenly Father, we take these pledges as true, and we ask Thee to put Thy Spirit upon every one that shall act a part in this service, for it is not they that are acting but the angels of God are sent to minister unto all those shall be brought to a knowledge of the truth by, yes, by the very effort that may be borne in this meeting.”

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 66

We want now to humble our hearts before God. Bring your children with you. It means everything to have a life, for humanity to lay hold upon divinity and divinity to obtain the victory for us and for our children. God help us is my most earnest prayer.

24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, par. 67

I will carry this suggestion along at another time.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

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

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 127, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 11

In these two sons are represented the obedient and the disobedient, the righteous and the unrighteous. The son who refused to obey the command, saying, I will not, represented the open transgressor, who cared neither for God nor man—those who make no pretension of piety, and who openly refused to come under the yoke of service to Christ. But these afterward repented went. When the gospel came to them in the message of John the Baptist, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” they repented and confessed their sins. [Matthew 3:2.] This class was in a much better condition to do the will of God than those who said, “I go, sir,” but went not. [Matthew 21:30.]

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 17

The third chapter of Matthew tells of the work of the Holy Spirit through John the Baptist: “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.” [Verses 1-3.]

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 19

“And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into his garner: but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Verses 7-12.]

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 22

Christ Himself had gone to the Jordan, not to repent of sin, but to fulfill every specification required of the sinner. The Baptist saw the Saviour walking at a distance from him, and his face lighted up. “Behold the Lamb of God,” he cried, “which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] There Christ stood revealed before the people. The glory of God descended upon Him in the form of a dove like burnished gold, and the voice of the Infinite One declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:16, 17.] Then John knew him to be the Christ, for God had told him that He would give him a sign pointing out the Promised One.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 147, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 147, 1906, par. 16

In the third chapter of Matthew is brought to view the work of John, the forerunner of Christ. “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Verses 1-3.]

21LtMs, Ms 147, 1906, par. 17

The prophecies that speak of the second coming of Christ are just as verily being fulfilled today. Our message today is, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Verse 2.] And there is a work of decision before every one of us. Shall we accept the infinite sacrifice that Christ has made for us, or shall we reject Him? This is a life and death question. The Lord desires to save everyone. He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him might not perish, but have everlasting life. But some will not come to Him that they may have life. We desire to see many turning for salvation to Him who is the Author and Finisher of our faith.

21LtMs, Ms 147, 1906, par. 19

“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: whose fan is in His hand, and He will throughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Verses 4-12.]

21LtMs, Ms 147, 1906, par. 21

“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him. And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Verses 13-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 272, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 272, 1906, par. 5

On Sabbath, I ventured to speak. Our brethren and sisters of the churches around the Bay gathered in, and the large tent was well filled. A good interest was manifested as I spoke to them from the third of Matthew and the seventeenth of John. I sought to urge them to turn from their backslidings and to heed the words of Christ in His last prayer. I could only refer briefly to the necessity of the unity that should exist among the disciples of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 142, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 8

Matthew 3:1, 2 quoted. No whispering voice was there when John the Baptist said these things.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 9

Verses 3-5 quoted. There was something in that message that brought out the people to hear him.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 10

Verses 6-12 quoted.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 32

Now I go back to John. Matthew 3. Here were the Sadducees coming to his baptism.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 33

Verses 7-11 quoted. “unto repentance.” They had not repented yet. They would have to receive Christ before they repented. There would have to be a second baptism.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 34

Verse 12 quoted. I might go on, but we want to know whether you have made up your mind to believe in the commandments of God. These commandments you will read in (Exodus 20), and be sure to let it carry you to (Exodus 31), and there you read from the 12th to the last verse.

21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 44

But He did not try to answer the devil back. In His weakness, when Satan came, He said: “It is written: It is written.” Let no one frame up words for yourself. You take the Bible, and you will know how to meet temptations. We want more intelligence. We want to cultivate the spirit that John had: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.] They had got all mixed up in regard to His paths. They did not know what the paths of the Lord were.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 112, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, par. 8

“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. ... But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” [Matthew 3:1-3, 7.] The Pharisees were very strict in regard to the outward observance of forms and customs, and were filled with haughty, worldly, hypocritical self-righteousness. The Sadducees denied the resurrection of the dead and the existence of angels and were skeptical in regard to God. This sect was largely composed of unworthy characters, many of whom were licentious in their habits. By the word “vipers” John meant those who were malignant and antagonistic, bitterly opposed to the expressed will of God.

16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, par. 9

John exhorted these men to “bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” [Verse 8.] That is, Show that you are converted, that your characters are transformed. “And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree that bringeth not forth fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.” [Verses 9-11.]

16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, par. 14

“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:13-17.]

Christian Service, volume 1

Representatives in the Thoroughfares of Travel

1ChS 127.1

In the world-renowned health resorts and centers of tourist traffic, crowded with many thousands of seekers after health and pleasure, there should be stationed ministers and canvassers capable of arresting the attention of the multitudes. Let these workers watch their chance for presenting the message for this time, and hold meetings as they have opportunity. Let them be quick to seize opportunities to speak to the people. Accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, let them meet the people with the message borne by John the Baptist, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. The word of God is to be presented with clearness and power, that those who have ears to hear may hear the truth. Thus the gospel of present truth will be placed in the way of those who know it not, and it will be accepted by not a few, and carried by them to their own homes in all parts of the world.—Testimonies for the Church 9:122.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1008—A Call to Awake

13MR 45.3

At this time, when Satanic agencies seem to be triumphing, the Lord calls upon His people to be wide awake, that they may give the enemy no advantage in his purpose to deceive, if possible, the elect. Those who know the truth are to let their light shine, not only to those in the house but to those outside. All who are engaged in the work of the Lord for these last days should lift the voice in no uncertain tones in the message, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” [Matthew 3:2]. “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it” [Isaiah 40:3-5]. Difficulties will always be found in the way of the Lord’s work, but in spite of every opposing element the believers in Christ are to let the true light shine forth with power.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

Chapter 60—Conflict and Conformity

2MCP 559.4

Our message to the church and to our institutions is: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). The attributes of Christ’s character are to be cherished, and these are to become a power in the lives of God’s people.—Manuscript 78, 1905.

Our Father Cares

God’s Kingdom in the Heart, August 1

OFC 225.3

Some of the Pharisees had come to Jesus demanding “when the kingdom of God should come” (Luke 17:20). More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message that like a trumpet call had sounded through the land, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). And as yet these Pharisees saw no indication of the establishment of the kingdom....

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 59—“The House of Israel”

PK 715.3

When the promised Messiah was about to appear, the message of the forerunner of Christ was: Repent, publicans and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees; “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2.

Reflecting Christ

John Calls for Repentance, November 21

RC 339.1

Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:2.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Experience of John the Baptist

8T 332.1

With no elaborate arguments or finespun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. With a new, strange power it moved the people. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Tourist Centers and Centers of Commerce

9T 122.2

In the world-renowned health resorts and centers of tourist traffic, crowded with many thousands of seekers after health and pleasure, there should be stationed ministers and canvassers capable of arresting the attention of the multitudes. Let these workers watch their chance for presenting the message for this time, and hold meetings as they have opportunity. Let them be quick to seize opportunities to speak to the people. Accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, let them meet the people with the message borne by John the Baptist: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. The word of God is to be presented with clearness and power, that those who have ears to hear may hear the truth. Thus the gospel of present truth will be placed in the way of those who know it not, and it will be accepted by not a few and carried by them to their own homes in all parts of the world.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 2—“The Sower Went Forth to Sow”

COL 34.4

Christ’s mission was not understood by the people of His time. The manner of His coming was not in accordance with their expectations. The Lord Jesus was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. Its imposing services were of divine appointment. They were designed to teach the people that at the time appointed One would come to whom those ceremonies pointed. But the Jews had exalted the forms and ceremonies and had lost sight of their object. The traditions, maxims, and enactments of men hid from them the lessons which God intended to convey. These maxims and traditions became an obstacle to their understanding and practice of true religion. And when the Reality came, in the person of Christ, they did not recognize in Him the fulfillment of all their types, the substance of all their shadows. They rejected the antitype, and clung to their types and useless ceremonies. The Son of God had come, but they continued to ask for a sign. The message, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” they answered by demands for a miracle. Matthew 3:2. The gospel of Christ was a stumbling block to them because they demanded signs instead of a Saviour. They expected the Messiah to prove His claims by mighty deeds of conquest, to establish His empire on the ruins of earthly kingdoms. This expectation Christ answered in the parable of the sower. Not by force of arms, not by violent interpositions, was the kingdom of God to prevail, but by the implanting of a new principle in the hearts of men.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show

DA 506.1

Some of the Pharisees had come to Jesus demanding “when the kingdom of God should come.” More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message that like a trumpet call had sounded through the land, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. And as yet these Pharisees saw no indication of the establishment of the kingdom. Many of those who rejected John, and at every step had opposed Jesus, were insinuating that His mission had failed.

The Upward Look

He Must Increase, October 21

UL 308.4

In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, such a work as that of John the Baptist is to be done. God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. The message preceding the public ministry of Christ was “Repent, publicans and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees; repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (see Matthew 3:2). As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a message to bear, “Prepare to meet thy God.” Our message is to be as direct as was the message of John. He rebuked kings for their iniquity. Notwithstanding that his life was imperiled, he did not hesitate to declare God’s Word; and our work in this age must be done as faithfully. In order to give such a message as John gave, we must have a spiritual experience like his.... We must behold God, and in beholding Him, lose sight of self.

The Voice in Speech and Song

John the Baptist

VSS 359.3

Voice Startling and Stern—With no elaborate arguments or fine-spun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. With a new, strange power it moved the people. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.—Testimonies for the Church 8:332.

Ye Shall Receive Power

The Publishing Work, August 21

YRP 242.4

The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message (Matthew 3:2). This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today.—Testimonies for the Church 7:138, 139.

The Publishing Ministry

Foreword

PM 5.4

“The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today....

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 38—Literature Giving the Final Call

PM 387.4

The Publishing Angel of Revelation 18—The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today....

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show

HLv 339.1

More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. Many of those who rejected John and at every step had opposed Jesus were insinuating that His mission had failed.

From Splendor to Shadow

The New Israel Which Replaces the Old

SS 369.1

When the promised Messiah was about to appear, the message of the forerunner of Christ was: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. Today in the spirit and power of John the Baptist, messengers of God’s appointment call the attention of a judgment-bound world to the closing of probation and the appearance of Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords. On His church rests the responsibility of warning those standing on the brink of eternal ruin. To every human being who will give heed must be made plain the principles in the great controversy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 9, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 33

Let not the truth be covered up with vain philosophy, for in teaching this you are crying peace, peace, when there is no peace. Go to the very root of the matter. Society is rotten to the core. The people need to have the message proclaimed in their ears with startling distinctness, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Make it manifest to the people that you have no time or disposition to trifle away important, solemn moments in any kind of talk that does not make Christ first and last and best in everything. Words that exalt Christ are music to the angels of God; but angels are not present to co-operate with anything that does not uplift Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 141, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 141, 1898, par. 4

The Lord has seen your turning away from Him into false paths, but He has not given you up. He calls after you, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] You have had angels to protect you. The tree has been given another chance to bear fruit to God’s glory. Put your hand in the hand of God. Place it there confidently, saying, Lord, I find no rest away from Thee, in transgressing Thy holy law. I return to Thee, humble and willing to wear Thy yoke and lift Thy burdens. I would learn of Thee Thy meekness, Thy lowliness; then I shall find rest in Thee.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 50, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 50, 1898, par. 18

And when the Reality came in the person of Christ they did not recognize in Him the antitype of all their types, the substance of all their shadows. They rejected the antitype, and clung to their types and useless ceremonies. They knew not when type met antitype in the Son of God. The sum was proved, the Son of God had come, but they continued to ask for the proof. The message brought to them from heaven, “Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” [Matthew 3:2], they answered by demands for miracles. But their demands for a sign from Christ and the apostles was not for the purpose of obtaining a clearer understanding of the truth of the gospel to help their unbelief. All the evidence Christ could give them would not make them one jot more satisfied. And to this day the Jewish nation require a sign and look for the Messiah to come—one adapted to all their inventive imaginations—to restore to them their right to the Holy Land.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 61, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 61, 1898, par. 2

Every man will have some estimate of his own worth when he becomes a laborer together with Christ, doing the work that Christ did, filling the world with Christ’s righteousness, bearing a commission from the Most High. The Lord Jesus expects you to do His work, to proclaim, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] You are to work to bless those who have no sense of their need of a new heart, a new life, a new purpose. Some one must tell these of their great want, and those whom God has accepted as His sons and daughters are to work as Christ worked. They are to obey the call, “Follow me.” The Son of God came to give to the world the example so much needed of a pure and spotless character. “He that will come after me,” He said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who heed this call will study the meekness and lowliness of Christ, and will join with Him in His efforts to make the world better.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 131, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 131, 1899, par. 16

I am entrusted with a message for every church: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] In every line of service all rivalry must be quenched. Heart must be bound to heart. Christian love must be manifested. Then allegiance will be given, as God requires, to Christ and to the brethren for Christ’s sake. No mean, cheap actions will grieve the Spirit of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 138, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 138, 1899, par. 44

The message was given to John the Baptist to proclaim, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Acknowledged and received, this message would be a powerful manifestation on earth of the heavenly kingdom. Christ was soon to begin His mission as the Sent of God, teaching in the temple and in the highways and hedges, proclaiming the truth by parables, by tears of sympathy, by restoring the sick to health. The Saviour went about doing good, and His practical work was a continual lesson to the disciples. The contrast between His teaching and the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees was great. As the people listened to His words, they testified to the effect of His teaching by saying, “Never man spake like this man.” [John 7:46.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 198, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 26

The Lord of life and glory has a special work for each one of His subjects to perform. Our world-wide message is: “Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Who are the subjects of kingdom of the God? “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Then we will not vindicate ourselves and justify ourselves, for this will not be of the slightest value to us. “By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that the tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” Romans 5:1-9. [Read also] verses 10, 11.

Colporteur Ministry

Chapter 1—Our Literature and Its Mission

CM 3.4

To Prepare a People to Meet God—The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 27, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 27, 1900, par. 4

To John the Baptist was given the work of preparing the way for Christ’s coming. By startling messages of warning he was to waken men from worldly dreaming. Through Him God called backslidden Israel to repentance. By His presentation of truth He exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false teachings of the rabbis, truth stood revealed as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” John cried. [Matthew 3:2.]

15LtMs, Ms 27, 1900, par. 14

Today the Lord is speaking to His people, saying, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] “Cease to do evil; learn to do well.” [Isaiah 1:16, 17.] When men and women are thoroughly awakened to the need of a reformation, they will believe and do the words of the great Teacher, “Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light; lest darkness come upon you; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.” [John 12:35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 23, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 23, 1900, par. 22

To the churches of today we are to give the startling message given by John the Baptist to the Jews, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] As John prepared the way for the first advent of Christ, so we are to prepare the way for the second advent of the Saviour. We are to ask men and women the question, Are you following the great apostate, disobeying the law of God? or are you following Jesus, who declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments”? [John 15:10.] This is the line of demarcation between the true church and the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 39, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 39, 1900, par. 7

There has not been light and life in the ministration of the church. The church has not carried the burden of souls. It has not made earnest, persevering efforts for their salvation. These young people were without God and without hope in the world. They had no conviction of sin, for they knew not that sin was the transgression of the law of God. They felt no alarm. But the Word has come to them as a sharp, twoedged sword, to disturb their carnal security. Truth arouses the conscience, and finds lodgment in the soul. The receiver consents to be saved in God’s appointed way, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Then it must fight out the battle, and vanquish the enemy. In this conflict the human agent is often found in a state of indecision, sometimes inclined to give up the warfare, then inclined to heed the word of the Lord, and obey the truth. Those who give heed to the Word will need the whole armor of God if they encounter and vanquish the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 79, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 79, 1900, par. 13

The gospel is a revelation of mercy and salvation. If men are not sinners, the call does not come to them, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] If they are not guilty, they do not need a Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 180, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, par. 10

Now there is a great work to be done in our cities, and it must be taken hold of without delay. Solemn interests are at stake; souls are hungering for the bread of life. Will we receive the word from Christ to give to him that is hungry; and to him that is thirsty for the water of life? Why should we pass by the most wealthy classes? God has a message for them, a call to repentance, as had John, “For the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 78, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 78, 1904, par. 12

“Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” [Matthew 3:2], was the message that rang through Judea just before the first coming of Christ, and this is the message that is to be given today, just before His second coming. A peculiar people, zealous of good works, is to unite in proclaiming the last message of mercy to the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 277, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, par. 1

I have a message for you. Christ speaks to you, saying, look away from every human being to the great Teacher. The message that rang through Judea in the time of John the Baptist, “Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” is the message for today. [Matthew 3:2.] Repentance means a change of heart, a change of mind.

Evangelism

Those in the Tourist Centers

Ev 585.1

To Arrest the Attention of the Multitude—In the world-renowned health resorts and centers of tourist traffic, crowded with many thousands of seekers after health and pleasure, there should be stationed ministers and canvassers capable of arresting the attention of the multitudes. Let these workers watch their chance for presenting the message for this time, and hold meetings as they have opportunity. Let them be quick to seize opportunities to speak to the people. Accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, let them meet the people with the message borne by John the Baptist, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. The Word of God is to be presented with clearness and power, that those who have ears to hear may hear the truth. Thus the gospel of present truth will be placed in the way of those who know it not, and it will be accepted by not a few, and carried by them to their own homes in all parts of the world.—Testimonies For The Church 9:122 (1909).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 78, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 78, 1905, par. 25

A deep and thorough work of reform is needed in the Seventh-day Adventist church. The world is not to be allowed to corrupt the principles of God’s commandment-keeping people. Believers are to exert an influence that bears witness to the power of heavenly principles. Those who unite with the church must give evidence of a change of principle. Unless this is done, unless the line of demarcation between the church and the world is carefully preserved, assimilation to the world will be the result. Our message to the church and to our institutions is: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] The attributes of Christ’s character are to be cherished, and these are to become a power in the lives of God’s people. “I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:15-18.] What a statement is this! Who believes that those who profess to believe present truth are sent into the world as Christ was sent into the world by His Father? What a work Christ did! To expel the powers of darkness, to give health and strength to those who receive Him, this was His work. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 116, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, par. 5

To the forerunner of Christ was given the message, “Repent ye for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] The work of the herald of Christ was the continuous effort to destroy the popular delusion concerning the coming Messiah, and to show that repentance and forsaking of sin are necessary preparations for the coming kingdom. This work constituted the preparation for the establishment of the true church.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 55, 1912

25LtMs, Ms 55, 1912, par. 5

At this time, when satanic agencies seem to be triumphing, the Lord calls upon His people to be wide-awake, that they may give the enemy no advantage in his purpose to deceive, if possible, the elect. Those who know the truth are to let their light shine, not only to those in the house, but to those outside. All who are engaged in the work of the Lord for these last days should lift the voice in no uncertain tones in the message, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” [Isaiah 40:3-5.] Difficulties will always be found in the way of the Lord’s work; but in spite of every opposing element, the believers in Christ are to let the true light shine forth with power.

God’s Amazing Grace

God’s Kingdom in the Heart, January 8

AG 16.3

Some of the Pharisees had come to Jesus demanding “when the kingdom of God should come” (Luke 17:20). More than three years had passed since John the Baptist gave the message that like a trumpet call had sounded through the land, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). And as yet these Pharisees saw no indication of the establishment of the kingdom....

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

The Experience of John the Baptist

GW 54.5

With no elaborate arguments or fine-spun theories did John declare his message. Startling and stern, yet full of hope, his voice was heard from the wilderness, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] With a new, strange power it moved the people. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Centers of Commerce and Travel

GW 352.3

In the world-renowned health resorts and centers of tourist traffic, crowded with many thousands of seekers after health and pleasure, there should be stationed ministers and canvassers capable of arresting the attention of the multitudes. Let these workers watch their chance for presenting the message for this time, and hold meetings as they have opportunity. Let them be quick to seize opportunities to speak to the people. Accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, let them meet the people with the message borne by John the Baptist, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]

Could not Approve Plans for Building in Los Angeles

1MR 254.4

I have always looked with great interest upon the work in Los Angeles and in San Diego, hoping that right moves would be made, and that the sanitarium work might be established in these important places. Every year large numbers of tourists visit these places, and I have longed to see men moved by the Holy Spirit meeting these people with the message borne by John the Baptist: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2)....

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Witnesses for Truth

7T 139.1

The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today.

7T 139.2

The prophecy that John’s mission fulfilled outlines our work: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Verse 3. As John prepared the way for the first, so we are to prepare the way for the second, advent of the Saviour. Our publishing institutions are to exalt the claims of God’s downtrodden law. Standing before the world as reformers, they are to show that the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all His commandments. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are to co-operate with Him in building up the old waste places, raising up the foundations of many generations. They are to stand as repairers of the breach, restorers of paths to dwell in. Through their testimony the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a witness, a constant reminder of God, to attract notice and arouse investigation that shall direct the minds of men to their Creator.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

God’s Purpose in Our Publishing Houses

3TT 140.4

The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today.

3TT 141.1

The prophecy that John’s mission fulfilled outlines our work: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Verse 3. As John prepared the way for the first, so we are to prepare the way for the second, advent of the Saviour. Our publishing institutions are to exalt the claims of God’s downtrodden law. Standing before the world as reformers, they are to show that the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all His commandments. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are to co-operate with Him in building up the old waste places, raising up the foundations of many generations. They are to stand as repairers of the breach, restorers of paths to dwell in. Through their testimony the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a witness, a constant reminder of God, to attract notice and arouse investigation that shall direct the minds of men to their Creator.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 122, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 122, 1906, par. 1

The prophecy that John’s mission fulfilled outlines our work: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:3. As John prepared the way for the first advent of the Saviour, our publishing institutions are to exalt the claims of God’s downtrodden law. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of perfect obedience to all His commandments. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are to co-operate with Him in building up the old waste places, raising up the foundations of many generations. They are to stand as repairers of the breach. They are, through their restoring influence, to call the notice of the people to the investigation of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, a constant reminder of God, directing the mind to the Creator.

21LtMs, Ms 122, 1906, par. 10

The truth is to go forth from them as a lamp that burneth. The publications are like the great light in a lighthouse, constantly sending forth their clear, living testimony as to what is truth. Lightness, jesting, and joking are the darkness of the world. The publications are to send forth their sacred beams of light in warnings throughout the world. Those publications sent forth from the publishing house are to prepare a people to see Christ in His beauty of holiness. Amid all the fallacies in printing offices, this office is to prepare a people, as did the message of John the Baptist, by startling messages of truth in warnings. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2.

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Chapter 25—Literature in the Closing Work

CW 178.2

Startling Messages—The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today. The prophecy that John’s mission fulfilled outlines our work,—“Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:2, 3. As John prepared the way for the first, so we are to prepare the way for the second, advent of the Saviour.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 36, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 36, 1898, par. 1

Christ is the greatest missionary the world has ever known. How did He come? What was His message? John, His forerunner, came with a message. His voice was lifted up in the wilderness of Judea, saying, “Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand; for this is he which was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord.” [Matthew 3:2, 3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 8, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 8, 1899, par. 10

Before Jesus of Nazareth commenced His public ministry, John the Baptist was to fulfil his mission as God’s appointed messenger. His message was to prepare the way for God’s work in a fallen world. His voice was to be heard, not in the synagogues, but in the wilderness, saying, “Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” “This is he,” writes the evangelist, “that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” [Matthew 3:2, 3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 147, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, par. 3

I have always looked with great interest upon the work in Los Angeles and in San Diego, hoping that right moves would be made and that the sanitarium work might be established in these important places. Every year large numbers of tourists visit these places, and I have longed to see men moved by the Holy Spirit, meeting these people with the message borne by John the Baptist: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.]

19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, par. 4

“This is he that was spoken of by Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” [Verse 3.]

19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, par. 5

“Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan,” went out to hear John the Baptist, “and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Verses 5, 6.] Just such a work as this can be done today in Southern California.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 30, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 30, 1905, par. 23

I have longed to see men moved by the Holy Spirit meeting those people with the message borne by John the Baptist, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.]

20LtMs, Ms 30, 1905, par. 24

This is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Verse 3.]

20LtMs, Ms 30, 1905, par. 25

“Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan,” went out to hear John the Baptist, “and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Verses 5, 6.] Just such a work as this can be done today in Southern California.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 15—Admonition Will Be Heard

2SM 148.1

Many of the Pharisees and Sadducees came to the baptism of John, and addressing these, he said, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: whose fan is in His hand, and He will throughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire” (Matthew 3:7-12).

2SM 149.3

And pointing to the rocks in wild confusion around through which the stream was winding its course, he said, “God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham” (Matthew 3:9).

2SM 150.5

The message preceding the public ministry of the Son of God was, Repent, publicans; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). Our message is not to be one of “peace and safety” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a work to do, a message to bear—“Prepare to meet thy God” (Amos 4:12). We are to lift up the standard, and bear the third angel’s message—the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 19a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 3

Many of the Pharisees and Sadducees came to the baptism of John, and addressing these, he said, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire, whose fan is in his hand, and who shall thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner: but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:7-12.

12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 7

John called every class to repentance. To the Pharisees and Sadducees he said, Flee from the wrath to come. Your claims to Abraham as your father are not of the least value to you. They will not impart to you pure principles and holiness of character. Ceremonial sacrifices possess no value unless you discern the object, the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. You turn from God’s requirements and follow your own perverted ideas; and you lose those characteristics which constitute you children of Abraham. And, pointing to the rocks in wild confusion around through which the stream was winding its course, he said, “God will of these stones raise up children unto Abraham.” [Matthew 3:7-9.]

12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 13

The message preceding the public ministry of the Son of God was, Repent, publicans; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Our message is not to be one of “peace and safety.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a work to do, a message to bear—“Prepare to meet thy God.” [Amos 4:12.] We are to lift up the standard, and bear the third angel’s message—the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 36

Go and tell Jesus of your great needs, the unfaithfulness, the blindness, the lack of discernment. The great want of the soul is truth in the inward parts. Time is too short now to let warnings go unheeded. Should God send me to Battle Creek, I would go. I would bear the testimony given me of God. I would not change a single word from what I have given you. I would lift up my voice as did John and say, “Repent ye, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2; Mark 1:15.] “Escape for thy life.” [Genesis 19:17.] It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 121c, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 121c, 1898, par. 10

Pointing to the rocks in wild confusion around him, he said, “God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees; every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” [Verses 8, 9.] “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:11, 12.]

13LtMs, Ms 121c, 1898, par. 13

In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. Just such a work as that of John is to be carried on in these last days. The Lord has given messages to His people through the instruments He has chosen, and He would have all take heed to the admonitions and warnings He sends. The message preceding the public ministry of Christ was, Repent, publicans and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees; “Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Our message is not to be one of peace and safety. As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a message to bear—“Prepare to meet thy God.” [Amos 4:12.] We are to lift up the standard of the third angel’s message. Our message must be as direct as was the message of John. He rebuked kings for their iniquity. Notwithstanding that his life was in peril, the truth did not languish upon his lips. And our work in this age must be as faithfully done.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 113, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 113, 1907, par. 18

“Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the tree; therefore every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire; whose fan is in his hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and gather the wheat into the garner: but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:5-12.]

22LtMs, Ms 113, 1907, par. 19

The doctrine that John preached was first repentance for past sins. Then “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Verse 2.] They must show repentance toward God; then they would be prepared to show faith in the One who was about to declare Himself unto them. Truth must be allowed to exercise its cleansing power upon the lives of these rulers. To those who were untaught in the oracles of God, it was enough for John to say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” But when the Baptist saw the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he was stirred to give them a decided message. These men held themselves as a power among the people. Though they held different theories regarding some Bible subjects, they were united in their desire to hear the words of the wilderness prophet. Some who came from curiosity, arrested by his words, became interested in the message he was giving and were moved to be baptized. To them John said, “Bring forth fruits meet for repentance.” [Verse 8.] Christ was about to appear as the revealer of the character of God. His very presence would make known to men their sin. Only as they were willing to be purged from sin could they enter into fellowship with Him. Those who were corrupt in heart could not abide in His presence.

22LtMs, Ms 113, 1907, par. 21

In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, such a work as that of John the Baptist is to be done. God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. The message preceding the public ministry of Christ was, “Repent, publicans and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees; ‘repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” [Matthew 3:2.] As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a message to bear, “Prepare to meet thy God.” [Amos 4:12.] Our message is to be as direct as was the message of John. He rebuked kings for their iniquity. Notwithstanding that his life was imperiled, he did not hesitate to declare God’s word. And our work in this age must be done as faithfully.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 351, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 351, 1905, par. 13

“Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance. And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: whose fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into His garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:2, 3, 8-12.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 22—Saying and Doing

COL 274.2

“We can not tell.” This answer was a falsehood. But the priests saw the position they were in, and falsified in order to screen themselves. John the Baptist had come bearing witness of the One whose authority they were now questioning. He had pointed Him out, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29. He had baptized Him, and after the baptism, as Christ was praying, the heavens were opened, and the Spirit of God like a dove rested upon Him, while a voice from heaven was heard saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17.

COL 275.2

In this parable the father represents God, the vineyard the church. By the two sons are represented two classes of people. The son who refused to obey the command, saying, “I will not,” represented those who were living in open transgression, who made no profession of piety, who openly refused to come under the yoke of restraint and obedience which the law of God imposes. But many of these afterward repented and obeyed the call of God. When the gospel came to them in the message of John the Baptist, “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” they repented, and confessed their sins. (Matthew 3:2.)

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 5—The Work at Home and Abroad

8T 33.1

In answer to the Lord’s inquiry, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:8. You, my brother, my sister, may not be able to go into the Lord’s vineyard yourself, but you may furnish the means to send others. Thus you will be putting your money out to the exchangers; and when the Master comes, you will be able to return to Him His own with usury. Your means can be used to send forth and sustain the messengers of God, who by voice and by influence will give the message: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:3. Plans are being made for the advancement of the cause, and now is your time to work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 4, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 4, 1891, par. 9

In answer to the Lord’s inquiry, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I; send me.” [Isaiah 6:8.] You, my brother, may not be able to go into the Lord’s vineyard yourself; but you may furnish the means to send others. Thus you will be putting your money out to the exchangers; and when the Master comes, you will be able to return to Him His own with usury. Your means can be used to send forth and sustain the messengers of God, who by voice and by influence will give the message, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 117, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 117, 1896, par. 19

Truth, precious truth as it is in Jesus, is food for the soul. If we are missionaries in the church, let us not be missionaries under the dictation of the enemy, but missionaries that are in vital connection with Jesus Christ. Christ came to the world to sow the earth with truth, pure, unadulterated truth. The Lord is soon to come. “Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.” [Matthew 3:3.] We are working in sight of the whole universe of heaven. Consider this. I beseech of you to walk in the light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 29, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 29, 1898, par. 4

There are floods of spiritual influence yet to be poured out upon all who will be worked by God’s Spirit. The zeal of these will kindle and burn. They will speak words that will represent the Spirit within their heart, crying, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 76, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 76, 1899, par. 10

We are to look upon fallen humanity as our field. God cares for them. They have been bought with a price. They are His special property, and upon every true believer in Christ rests the solemn responsibility of being a laborer together with God, of speaking the truth as it is in Jesus. All are to become messengers to proclaim the truth. Through the power and work of Satan, the world has mistaken and forgotten God, and is living in sin. Man’s influence works against God. His knowledge of God and His Word is perverted. His understanding is darkened. But the Lord speaks through His delegated servants. Not one soul is to be left in darkness. The Lord is not careless in regard to His work. He will not look upon the peril of men, and remain silent. He sends His warnings, and we must voice His words, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make his paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 28, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 28, 1900, par. 6

The Lord’s ambassadors have a message to bear to the world. They are to lift up their voice like a trumpet, even as John the Baptist lifted up his voice in the wilderness, crying, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his path straight.” [Matthew 3:3.] A decided testimony is to be borne. We must not serve with the sins of the people, for in so doing we shall minister to sin. Whatever the standing or position or the transgressors may be, we must let it be understood that we keep the law of God. By precept and example we are to give the message of truth, whether men will hear or whether they will forbear.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 103, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 103, 1903, par. 10

The voice is heard, “I will send My messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.” “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make His paths straight.” [Matthew 11:10; 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 233, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 233, 1905, par. 37

Our work is to gain a knowledge of Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We are to interest people in the subjects that concern the health of the body, as well as in the subjects that concern the health of the soul. Believers have a decided message to bear to prepare the way for the kingdom of God. The will of the Lord is to be done on earth. We have not one moment to spend in idle speculation. “Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight” is the message that we are to proclaim. [Matthew 3:3.] Amidst all the confusion that now fills the world, a clear, decided message is to be heard.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 51, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, par. 7

Like the great light in a lighthouse, the publications are constantly sending forth their clear, living testimony as to what is truth. Lightness and jesting and joking reveal the darkness in which the world is enshrouded. The publications are like the precious rays of light that go forth to enable the people to see Christ in His beauty and holiness. Amid the fallacies of the world, our publishing houses are to send forth a knowledge of saving truth, which will arouse the people as the message of John the Baptist stirred men to self-examination and repentance. The burden of the forerunner’s message was, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 22—Imprisonment and Death of John

DA 224.1

The childhood, youth, and manhood of John had been characterized by firmness and moral power. When his voice was heard in the wilderness saying, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight” (Matthew 3:3), Satan feared for the safety of his kingdom. The sinfulness of sin was revealed in such a manner that men trembled. Satan’s power over many who had been under his control was broken. He had been unwearied in his efforts to draw away the Baptist from a life of unreserved surrender to God; but he had failed. And he had failed to overcome Jesus. In the temptation in the wilderness, Satan had been defeated, and his rage was great. Now he determined to bring sorrow upon Christ by striking John. The One whom he could not entice to sin he would cause to suffer.

Record of Progress and An Appeal In Behalf of the Boulder-Colorado Sanitarium

Chapter 3—Appeal to the Colorado Conference

SpTB05 29.4

Our work is to gain a knowledge of Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We are to interest people in the subjects that concern the health of the body, as well as in the subjects that concern the health of the soul. Believers have a decided message to bear to prepare the way for the kingdom of God. The will of the Lord is to be done on earth. We have not one moment to spare in idle speculation. “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight” (Matthew 3:3), is the message that we are to proclaim. Amidst all the confusion that now fills the world, a clear, decided message is to be heard.

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

Chapter 21—The Work at Home and Abroad

PH151 93.2

In answer to the Lord’s inquiry, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:8. You, my brother, my sister, may not be able to go into the Lord’s vineyard yourself, but you may furnish the means to send others. Thus you will be putting your money out to the exchangers; and when the Master comes, you will be able to return to Him His own with usury. Your means can be used to send forth and sustain the messengers of God, who by voice and by influence will give the message, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:3. Plans are being made for the advancement of the cause, and now is your time to work.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Now the Time to Work

3TT 219.1

In answer to the Lord’s inquiry, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:8. You, my brother, my sister, may not be able to go into the Lord’s vineyard yourself, but you may furnish the means to send others. Thus you will be putting your money out to the exchangers; and when the Master comes, you will be able to return to Him His own with usury. Your means can be used to send forth and sustain the messengers of God, who by voice and by influence will give the message: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” Matthew 3:3. Plans are being made for the advancement of the cause, and now is your time to work.

From the Heart

A Voice in the Wilderness, December 3

FH 349.1

This is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.’” Matthew 3:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 43a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 43a, 1890, par. 10

I know that if the way were only prepared, there would be in Battle Creek such a sacred kindling of love and zeal commenced upon the hearts of the very men who need this work but who have themselves barred the way that it shall not come, and men who are now in unbelief would receive communications from heaven and would be proclaiming, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord and make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 270, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, par. 14

There needs to be a purging of heart and mind and soul on the part of many who are working out Satan’s will while professing to have the faith of Christ. A work of reformation needs to be brought in. Wrong customs that have been practiced must change; the crooked paths must be made straight. The mountains and hills of self-esteem and pride must be brought low. The message comes, “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:8, 3.] The roughness in the character must be made smooth. When this work is done in the experience of God’s believing people, “All flesh shall see the salvation of God.” [Luke 3:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 9, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 18

John the Baptist had preceded Christ with the message, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord.” [Matthew 3:3.] He had called upon the Jews to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and, setting their affections upon heavenly things, subordinate the earthly to the heavenly. Christ offered to them the waters of life, that all men might be converted, and that they might honor the Son as they had professed to honor the Father.

13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 23

Was the unbelief of the Jews excusable? Were they guiltless? Christ’s words to them made them responsible. He addressed them as responsible agents, setting before them their duty. God from heaven attested His divine mission, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:17.] But through the intensity of their passions, their prejudice and hatred against Christ, the priests and rulers had closed the eyes of their understanding that they should not discern Christ. His grand work of mercy and tender compassion were unheeded by them. The sick were healed, the sorrowing and suffering one were comforted and relieved, the dead heard His voice and came forth to life. But the rulers of Israel closed their hearts to the Messiah. Lessons and appeals fell from His lips with so convincing a power that they were convicted of the truth, but they resisted the impressions made by the Holy Spirit. Christ said to them, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 5, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 5, 1899, par. 2

“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: and think not to say within yourselves, we have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees, therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast unto the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than me, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:5-12.]

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Policy in Sacred Things

GW 149.2

Many of those who profess to believe the truth would say, if they expressed their real sentiments, What need is there of speaking so plainly? They might as well ask, Why need John the Baptist have said to the Pharisees, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” [Matthew 3:7.] Why need he have provoked the anger of Herodias by telling Herod that it was unlawful for him to live with his brother’s wife? He lost his life by speaking so plainly. Why could he not have moved along without incurring the anger of Herodias?

This Day With God

The Fruits of Repentance, July 7

TDG 197.2

When John was preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and the Pharisees and Sadducees came to his baptism, that fearless preacher of righteousness addressed them: “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance” (Matthew 3:7, 8). In coming to John, these men were not actuated by right motives. They were corrupt in principles and practice; yet they had no sense of their true condition. Filled with pride and ambition, they would not hesitate at any means which would enable them to exalt self and strengthen their influence with the people. And baptism at the hands of this popular young teacher might, they thought, aid them in carrying out these designs more successfully.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Faithfulness in Reproving Sin

GW92 89.4

Those who have been thrust out to bear a plain, pointed testimony, in the fear of God to reprove wrong, to labor with all their energies to build up God’s people, and to establish them upon important points of present truth, have too often received censure instead of sympathy and help, while those who, like yourself, [From a Personal Testimony] have taken a non-committal position, are thought to be devoted, and to have a mild spirit. God does not thus regard them. The forerunner of Christ’s first advent was a very plain-spoken man. He rebuked sin, and called things by their right names. He laid the ax at the root of the tree. He thus addressed one class of professed converts who came to be baptized of him in Jordan: “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.... And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” [Matthew 3:7-10.]