EGW WritingsMatthew 5
Ellen G. White · Page 5 of 6
Read Matthew 5 in the BibleMatthew 5:16-18
The Bible Echo
June 10, 1895
BEcho June 10, 1895, par. 9
Said Christ, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil [every specification in that law]. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:16-18. The heavens and the earth remain, testifying to the immutability of the divine law. Such plain and positive language as this will meet every sinner in that day when sentence shall be pronounced against the transgressors of God’s law, and a blessed benediction shall be given to the obedient.Matthew 5:16-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 1, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 1, 1895, par. 10
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill (every specification in that law) for verily I say unto you till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:16-18.] The heavens and the earth remain, testifying to the immutability of the law of God. Such plain and positive language as this will meet every transgressor in that day when sentence of an evil work shall be pronounced against the transgressor of God’s law; and the blessed benediction shall be given to the obedient.10LtMs, Lt 1, 1895, par. 11
Hear the words spoken by Christ, “Whosoever, therefore, shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.] Will the transgressor get to heaven and then be treated as the least in that kingdom? No, but the heavenly intelligences, angels, and councils of heaven, and Jesus Christ and the Father, will call them, the human agents, the least of the Lord’s created intelligences. They know not—intelligent as they may seem to be—the things that make for their peace—to practice obedience to His commandments. Adam lost Eden because of his disobedience, he was cut off from access to the tree of life because of transgression. This every intelligent human being can know, if they will.Matthew 5:16-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 98, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 98, 1893, par. 27
God is always giving; and upon whom are His gifts bestowed? Upon those who are faultless in character? He “maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” [Matthew 5:45.] Notwithstanding the sinfulness of humanity, notwithstanding we of often grieve the heart of Christ, when we ask His forgiveness He does not turn us away, although we are most undeserving. It pleases and honors God when we expect great things at His hand. He has promised us great blessings through our Saviour, and we cannot dishonor His name more than to doubt His love and His willingness to bless us.8LtMs, Ms 98, 1893, par. 28
How are the world to know God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent? through His Word and through His human agents. We are to be His representatives. Through us the world will form their opinion of God and of the religion of Christ. Therefore Jesus said, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.” [John 15:8.] “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] When men see, they glorify God. Great dishonor is brought upon the cause of God because those who profess Christ do not possess His Holy Spirit, but walk in their own ways. What a terrible misrepresentation of God, His ways, His character, are the selfishness of life and hardness of heart of His professed followers. A profession of piety is not enough; if religion is not brought into practical service, and does not produce good works, it is valueless. If we do not live to bless others, we are unfaithful stewards, and we shall never receive the heavenly benediction, “Well done.” [Matthew 25:21.] But God will have a peculiar people, of whom it is written that Christ is not ashamed to call them brethren. They bear His likeness. They are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.Matthew 5:16-48
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 68, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 68, 1903, par. 4
There is but one path to heaven—the strait and narrow way. Of those who enter this path the Lord says, “Ye are My witnesses.” [Isaiah 43:10.] Those only who love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves can walk in this way. Christ says, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] We are to follow Christ in everything, conforming our lives to His teachings.18LtMs, Lt 68, 1903, par. 19
Every day we should test our motives and opinions and course of conduct by the Bible rule. As we do this, bringing our wills into harmony with God’s will, He is glorified in us. He rejoices in the evidence of purity and self-denial that appears in our lives. Those who walk as Christ in His humanity walked, revealing His meekness and lowliness, bear with them that which makes them light in the world. They obey the word, “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 92, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 9
Everyone has his peculiar traits of character, and under various circumstances they will be exhibited. God requires His disciples to take up the cross and follow Christ. Jesus said, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.]10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 26
Christ says to His disciples, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Let that soul leave its impression upon the professed followers of Christ. Oh, for less and less of self, and more and still more of Jesus. “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.” [Philippians 2:15, 16.]Matthew 5:17
Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 909—Attending and Acting in Theatrical Performances
11MR 339.1
Christ did not come into the world to disparage education, for He Himself was the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. Christ came to call the minds of His redeemed people to learn of Him. He will sanctify the human talents that are employed for His glory. He came to make human learning strong and pure and ennobling, and of such a character that He could commend. He came to give it a foundation upon which to stand—a knowledge of Himself. Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I came not to destroy, but to fulfil” (Matthew 5:17). He came to give every specification of the law a depth and meaning which the Pharisees had never seen nor understood. Christ is the originator of all the deep thoughts of true philosophy, of every line of that education that will be retained through sanctification of the spirit. True education is that which will not be left behind when He shall come to be admired in all them that believe.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Sufferings of Christ
1TT 219.2
Christ consented to die in the sinner’s stead, that man, by a life of obedience, might escape the penalty of the law of God. His death did not make the law of none effect; it did not slay the law, lessen its holy claims, nor detract from its sacred dignity. The death of Christ proclaimed the justice of His Father’s law in punishing the transgressor, in that He consented to suffer the penalty of the law Himself in order to save fallen man from its curse. The death of God’s beloved Son on the cross shows the immutability of the law of God. His death magnifies the law and makes it honorable, and gives evidence to man of its changeless character. From His own divine lips are heard the words: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” Matthew 5:17. The death of Christ justified the claims of the law.Homeward Bound
God’s Law Is Eternal, June 8
HB 181.1
Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.—Matthew 5:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 43, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 43, 1887, par. 1
“Think not,” were the words of Christ, “that I have come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” Matthew 5:17. The laws of sacrificial offerings were typical and were in force until type should reach its antitype in the greater and wholly perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. These sacrifices and services of the temple were to cease with the perfect offering of Christ Himself as the Lamb without blemish; these sacrifices were abolished at the cross. This handwriting of ordinances our Lord did blot out and take away and nail to His cross.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 12, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 12, 1893, par. 12
These things have been opened before my mind, and I can assure you that I have not one particle of faith in phrenology <as it is not handled. It has become a fraud.> We have a higher work than this. It certainly cannot be said of those who practiced these things, “And thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.” [Isaiah 58:8.] They do not know what the glory of the Lord is. There is a power from beneath acting upon the minds of many. And there is going to be such a state of criticizing. Even the Bible is not taken as a standard. They would dare to tamper with the Law of God, and change the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and have adopted Sunday, instead of the Sabbath of the Lord which is to endure as long as the heavens above and the earth beneath. Matthew 5:17. The Pharisees had the Sabbath of the Lord loaded with human exactions. And the words of Christ cut through the slime and rubbish of human inventions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 9, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 9, 1893, par. 24
When the Jews heard Christ deliver His sermon on the mount they thought He was going to pass by the law, but on their astonished ears fell these words, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” [Matthew 5:17.] He fulfilled every specification of it. To “fulfill” does not mean to do away. We read in (Matthew 3:15), “for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.” To have abolished the law would have been to immortalize sin. There was nothing in [the] law that needed changing or altering. Christ showed that the Law took hold upon the thoughts and intents and purposes of the heart. We should prepare for time and eternity.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 999—Christ as Sacrifice and High Priest
12MR 415.1
In His life Christ fulfilled every specification of the law. Did He do this that from henceforth the law might be made void and that sinful beings might be given what Satan claimed to be their privilege—freedom from law? Has the enemy of God obtained in this world what he was refused in heaven? No. Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill” [Matthew 5:17]. Righteousness was leagued with truth to make unrighteousness appear.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 10, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 10, 1894, par. 3
God declares that He came not to destroy the law or the prophets. [Matthew 5:17.] Why, if God could have changed or altered one precept of His law to meet man in his fallen condition, Christ need not have left the royal courts; He need not have laid off His kingly crown and royal robe and yielded up His position as Commander in the heavenly court. He gave up all. For our sakes He became poor. Why? That we through His poverty might be made rich; that man should have another test of his loyalty and be brought back to obedience to the law of God. This infinite sacrifice was not to be made to immortalize sin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 111, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 111, 1897, par. 46
In His life Christ fulfilled every specification of the law. Did He do this that from henceforth the law might be made void? and that sinful beings might be given what Satan claimed to be their privilege, a freedom from the law? Has the enemy of God obtained in the world what he was refused in heaven? No; Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” [Matthew 5:17.] Righteousness was leagued with truth to make unrighteousness appear.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 45, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 45, 1897, par. 2
This was the only charge that could be brought against Christ. His words were <misstated and> misapplied, for He had said, “I came not to destroy, but to fulfil.” [Matthew 5:17.] But the priests and rulers, with many others, taunted Him with this false statement. While Christ hung upon the cross, it was repeated in mockery by the scribes and Pharisees, and voiced by the multitude. “They that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, and saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself.” [Matthew 27:39, 40.] The statement made by Christ was <misstated. He had said, “Destroy this temple and I will build it again in three days” [John 2:19], which> was being fulfilled, publicity was being given to it, and it was made more impressive by the <misstatement in the> proclamation of His enemies.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 58a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 16
Christ did not come into the world to disparage education, for He Himself was the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. Christ came to call the minds of His redeemed people to learn of Him. He will sanctify the human talents that are employed for His glory. He came to make human learning strong and pure and ennobling, and of such a character that He could commend. He came to give it a foundation upon which to stand—a knowledge of Himself. Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I came not to destroy, but to fulfill.” [Matthew 5:17.] He came to give every specification of the law a depth and meaning which the Pharisees had never seen nor understood. Christ is the originator of all the deep thoughts of true philosophy, of every line of that education that will be retained through sanctification of the spirit. True education is that which will not be left behind when He shall come to be admired in all them that believe.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 28, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 28, 1899, par. 2
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets,” Christ says; “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” [Matthew 5:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 16, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 16, 1900, par. 47
The work to be done in these last days has been given us by the Lord. Let us obey His Word. Which side are we on? Are we honoring the Lord by calling His Sabbath holy? Are we engaged in the work of repairing the breach which the man of sin has made in the law of God? There is a great work for all to do who will cooperate with Him who declared, “I am not come to destroy but to fulfill.” [Matthew 5:17.] Shall any one allow himself to be tempted to think, because of the universal scorn thrown on God’s law, that Satan’s enmity against this law is right? Shall we take sides with the great apostate? No, no; those who are willing to receive the Word of inspiration will say, “They have made void thy law; therefore love I thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:126, 127.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 58, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 58, 1906, par. 15
In a world of lawbreakers, a world revolting from allegiance to God, and refusing to obey the law of Him who created the earth, Christ was to magnify the law and make it honorable. He came to show that the law could be obeyed. “Think not,” He said, “that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” [Matthew 5:17.] “I came not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.” [John 6:38.] “I am among you as one that serveth.” [Luke 22:27.] All His work was done in the ministry of service, for the saving of a lost world. His ministry bore not one vestige of selfishness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 189, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 189, 1909, par. 15
“I am come” are the words of the heavenly Messenger. “Think not I am come to destroy the law or the prophets. I am come not to destroy but to fulfill.” [Matthew 5:17.] The Lord Jehovah is true; obeying His righteous law and working the works of Christ, to become one with Christ, man becomes in words and works partaker of His divine nature. Humanity lays hold of divinity. The Lord Jehovah has condescended that the pattern of the heavenly being should be represented by His only beloved Son. “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His only begotten Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh, that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled,” in the new power He would give them. “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His only begotten Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and because of sin, condemned sin in” the human nature, for Christ was tempted upon all points like as man is tempted. “For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh, that His righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit.” Romans 8. [Verses 3, 4.] Christ says, “I am come; the way, the truth, and the life.” [See John 14:6.] Christ tells us Himself, “I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Giver of the Law, August 4
JNN 230.1
“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”—Matthew 5:17Reflecting Christ
The Spirituality of the Law, February 22
RC 67.1
I am not come to destroy the law, but to fulfil. Matthew 5:17.Sons and Daughters of God
Christ Came to Earth to Fulfill the Law, February 18
SD 55.1
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Matthew 5:17.That I May Know Him
Power for Obedience, October 13
TMK 292.3
In the Sermon on the Mount Christ plainly declared His mission. “Think not,” He said, “that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil” (Matthew 5:17). He came to carry out literally every specification concerning which the prophets had borne testimony. He who existed with the Father before the creation of the world, Himself gave the prophecies recorded by holy men—the prophecies that He came afterward to fulfill....Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”—Matthew 5:17.
“I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”—Matthew 5:17.
Matthew 5:17-18
The Story of Jesus
Chapter 11—Sabbathkeeping
SJ 70.9
To those who claimed that He came to set aside the law, He said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” Matthew 5:17.SJ 71.2
God’s law can never be changed; for Christ said, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:18.Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 24—Without a Wedding Garment
COL 314.3
There are many who claim that by the death of Christ the law was abrogated; but in this they contradict Christ’s own words, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets.... Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:17, 18. It was to atone for man’s transgression of the law that Christ laid down His life. Could the law have been changed or set aside, then Christ need not have died. By His life on earth He honored the law of God. By His death He established it. He gave His life as a sacrifice, not to destroy God’s law, not to create a lower standard, but that justice might be maintained, that the law might be shown to be immutable, that it might stand fast forever.From Eternity Past
Two Laws: Moral and Ceremonial
EP 255.4
But concerning the law of Ten Commandments the psalmist declares, “Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.” Psalm 119:89. And Christ Himself says, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law... . Verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:17, 18. Here He teaches that the claims of God’s law should hold as long as the heavens and the earth remain.From Here to Forever
The Law of Liberty
HF 287.5
Had it been possible for the law to be changed or set aside, Christ need not have died to save man from the penalty of sin. The Son of God came to “magnify the law, and make it honorable.” Isaiah 42:21. He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law”; “till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Concerning Himself He declared: “I delight to do thy will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart.” Matthew 5:17, 18; Psalm 40:8.The Great Hope (Condensed)
The Law of Liberty
GrH_c 25.5
Had it been possible for the law to be changed or set aside, Christ need not have died to save man from the penalty of sin. The Son of God came to “magnify the law, and make it honorable.” Isaiah 42:21. He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law”; “till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Concerning Himself He declared: “I delight to do thy will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart.” Matthew 5:17, 18; Psalm 40:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 27, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 27, 1886, par. 9
Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:17, 18. And He says again, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20. Are those who so boldly claim to be sanctified doing the works of Christ? Are they holding up before the people the law of God given on Mount Sinai? They declare that they have with them the power of God, but the Scriptures declare: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 11, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 11, 1893, par. 11
When Christ delivered His memorial Sermon on the Mount, He gave the exposition of His own law. The Pharisees thought He was dishonoring the law, for their traditions so covered the law that it could not be kept. Christ was bringing right principles before them, and these words fell upon their astonished ears: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:17, 18. If men with reasoning faculties pass over what the Lord Jesus Christ says, it becomes us to stand where we can defend the honor of the law of the Lord God of Israel. We can do so by presenting the truth as it is in Jesus. The enemy has ever labored to disconnect the law and the gospel. They go hand in hand.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 16, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 16, 1894, par. 7
The character of God is the law, and therefore Christ said, “Not one jot or tittle of the law shall pass till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:18.] Every specification which Christ has given is life. He came to bring before us the true and perfect character of the law of God, and the Word declares, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] Let us hear from the lips of the greatest teacher the world has ever known. He was giving His sermon upon the Mount. The Pharisees had declared that He came to do away with the law.9LtMs, Ms 16, 1894, par. 8
He read what was in their hearts and said, “Think not that I am come to do away with the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” He was in the open air and as He pointed to the heaven and the earth, He said, “For till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.] God saw the importance of this, and Christ came to draw back the falsehood that it was impossible to keep the law.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 6, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 6, 1894, par. 10
Were the law abolished, then sin, which is the transgression of the law, would be immortalized and the whole question would be given up to Satan; he would have everything he asked for in heaven. His demand was not granted there, and for this reason there was war in heaven and Satan was expelled. Now he comes to the human agents and gains them to his side; he leads them to believe his falsehood, which is directly opposed to the words of Christ, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; for I come not to destroy but to fulfill every specification of the law. For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1557—Evangelism in Melbourne Suburbs; God’s Law Everlasting; Truth to Triumph Over Error
21MR 282.1
Were the law abolished, then sin, which is the transgression of the law, would be immortalized and the whole question would be given up to Satan; he would have everything he asked for in heaven. His demand was not granted there, and for this reason there was war in heaven and Satan was expelled. Now he comes to the human agents and gains them to his side; he leads them to believe his falsehood, which is directly opposed to the words of Christ, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: for I come not to destroy but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” [Matthew 5:17, 18].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 78, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 78, 1897, par. 48
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law and the prophets,” Christ said, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” [Matthew 5:17.] As the head of the human family He lived every precept, every jot and every tittle, of the law. He lived that life in humanity that He requires His followers to live, and therefore there is no excuse for anyone to fail of reaching the standard of perfection. He emphasizes His words: “For verily, I say unto you, One jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Verse 18.] As long as the heavens and the earth remain, so long will the Sabbath of the fourth commandment hold its claim upon the human family.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 162, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 162, 1899, par. 16
Christ declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 32—The Righteousness of Christ in the Law
1SM 240.1
In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” (Matthew 5:17, 18).That I May Know Him
God’s Law Changeless and Eternal, October 10
TMK 289.1
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:17, 18.The Great Controversy
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC 466.3
The claim that Christ by His death abolished His Father’s law is without foundation. Had it been possible for the law to be changed or set aside, then Christ need not have died to save man from the penalty of sin. The death of Christ, so far from abolishing the law, proves that it is immutable. The Son of God came to “magnify the law, and make it honorable.” Isaiah 42:21. He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law;” “till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:17, 18. And concerning Himself He declares: “I delight to do Thy will, O my God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC88 466.3
The claim that Christ by his death abolished his Father’s law, is without foundation. Had it been possible for the law to be changed or set aside, then Christ need not have died to save man from the penalty of sin. The death of Christ, so far from abolishing the law, proves that it is immutable. The Son of God came to “magnify the law, and make it honorable.” [Isaiah 42:21.] He said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law;” “till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.] And concerning himself he declares, “I delight to do thy will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart.” [Psalm 40:8.]Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 11, 1893
2SAT 101.4
When Christ delivered His memorial Sermon on the Mount, He gave the exposition of His own law. The Pharisees thought He was dishonoring the law, for their traditions so covered the law that it could not be kept. Christ was bringing right principles before them, and these words fell upon their astonished ears: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” (Matthew 5:17, 18).Matthew 5:17-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 51, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 51, 1902, par. 1
Throughout the ages God’s law will endure. In His sermon on the mount Christ said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till haven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.] I have no come to destroy the law, but to show its immutability and the holiness of its claims.17LtMs, Ms 51, 1902, par. 3
For the benefit of future generations, Christ made plain the meaning of the precepts of God’s law. Himself the author of this law, He proclaimed its immutability, declaring that while God’s throne remained, His law would also remain. Not the least part of it would ever be annulled. “One jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Verse 18.] In these positive terms Christ declares the immutability of the law. His words leave no room for doubt or evasion.17LtMs, Ms 51, 1902, par. 4
Some claim that the commandments are not binding on those who are led by the Spirit. What spirit? we inquire. Certainly not the Spirit of Christ; for He declared, I came not to destroy the law. “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments,” He said, “and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.] He is a rebel against God’s government. He is sinning himself and is leading others in the path of disobedience. “He shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven.” For him there will be no place in God’s kingdom. He is a transgressor of God’s law, and into the holy city no transgressors are admitted.17LtMs, Ms 51, 1902, par. 5
“But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1305—The Message in Revelation
18MR 32.2
In His ministerial labors Christ declared to the Pharisees and to the Sadducees and to all the Gentile world, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven” [Matthew 5:17-19]. Thus did He rebuke the pretentious piety of the Pharisees, and thus did He correct their erroneous ideas of the law of God.From Here to Forever
The Beast and His Image
HF 276.5
The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment, the sign of His creative power. The worshipers of the beast will be distinguished by their efforts to tear down the Creator’s memorial, to exalt the institution of Rome. It was in behalf of Sunday as “the Lord’s day” that popery first asserted its arrogant claims. (See Appendix.) But the Bible points to the seventh day as the Lord’s day. Said Christ: “The Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.” Mark 2:28. See also Isaiah 58:13; Matthew 5:17-19. The claim so often put forth that Christ changed the Sabbath is disproved by His own words.From Splendor to Shadow
How Christ Upheld the Sabbath
SS 97.1
In unmistakable language He testified to His regard for the law. “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets,” He said; “I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-19, RSV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 35, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 9
I stated the words of Christ: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-19.3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 12
And yet you rob God of the only day He has set apart for Him. I referred to the words of Christ. Those who should break one of these least commandments and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. [Matthew 5:19.] Your influence, your example is saying to others, “The fourth commandment says the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord, but it is of no manner of consequence whether you attach any sacredness to this fourth commandment or not if you keep the other nine. I will risk it. I shall be saved if I do not believe as you do.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 35a, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 35a, 1877, par. 14
I quoted the words of Christ, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-19. Solemn words, definite and plainly stated. Jesus looked down through centuries and saw that the Christian world would think and teach that the death of Christ abrogated the Father’s law. He therefore makes a plain statement to undeceive all minds that want to be undeceived upon this point. Those who choose fables because they are more agreeable to the natural heart will be left to strong delusions, to believe a lie.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 91, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 91, 1894, par. 2
The claim so often put forth that Christ changed the Sabbath is disproved by His own words. In the sermon on the mount He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 115, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 115, 1894, par. 4
The Lord says, “I will not change nor alter the thing that has gone out of my lips.” [Psalm 89:34.] Christ who came to represent the Father declared to an immense congregation in his sermon on the mount, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least of these commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] But the Roman power has taken a course exactly opposite to the teachings of Christ, and has spoken great words against the most High, worn out the saints of the Most High, and thought to change the times and laws of the Most High.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 55, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 55, 1895, par. 19
She became very much excited. Said the law was done away. We were only to love one another, which was Christ’s commandment. I repeated to her the words spoken by Christ to the immense crowd of people who were surrounding Him, Matthew 5:17, 18: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” This is positive testimony that no human agent can refute as long as the heavens above them and the earth beneath their feet shall remain. “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Verse 19.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 12b, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, par. 25
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets,” said Christ, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least of these commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven, but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] The world is taking sides. The nations have drunk of the wine of Babylon, and the lawless in her borders are on Satan’s side, in disobedience and rebellion against God’s laws, exulting in their own traditions as did the Jews, and “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:9.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 870—Keeping the Sabbath in our Sanitariums
11MR 73.1
[Matthew 5:17-19 quoted.] It is our work to give this message. We are to teach men and women not to regard lightly one principle of the law of God. By precept and example we are to explain the nature of God’s holy requirements. Thus we shall be in the world a savor of life unto life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 69, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, par. 5
Jesus says, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil, for verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments and shall teach men so (by precept and example) shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] In the councils of heaven the violators of the least commandments of God are registered as of least value among men. This decision is pronounced in the councils of the kingdom of heaven to show that not one of these moral precepts is to be trifled with. Men are not to consult their convenience or pleasure when it is a question of obeying God.11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, par. 6
God will bring them into judgment for disregarding His law. They will not be taken into the kingdom of heaven and treated as inferior subjects; they will never enter the kingdom of heaven, but in that kingdom God and Christ and the holy angels in counsel pronounce them as the least in all God’s creation. God does not regard those who mislead the inexperienced as proper religious teachers. He says, “Whosoever shall do and teach them (the commandments), the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.] Those who do and teach the commandments of God are recognized in heaven as those who are one with Christ and with God, and they are accounted great by the angelic hosts. How careful should we be to obey the commandments of God, and exercise our entrusted talents in showing to a disobedient world that we honor God by keeping His law which is a transcript of His character. All human intelligences are to obey the law of God, not making for themselves a lower standard than that which the Lord has given through Jesus Christ, the world’s Redeemer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 39, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 39, 1898, par. 20
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law until all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 15, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 15, 1898, par. 18
The law of God declares that fallen human beings may through Christ’s righteousness return to their loyalty. That Christ died to abolish this law is a positive lie of the adversary of souls. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets,” Christ said; “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily, I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 23, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 16
“Think not” He said “that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets, I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law until all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven”—called the least by the heavenly angels. Whatever his learning, his wealth, his position, the record of heaven estimates him as the least of all God’s creatures. “But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] This will be the decision made in the heavenly courts. The humble and obedient are estimated as higher than the most exalted, the most wealthy, the most honored, of men on earth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 51, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 51, 1899, par. 15
Those who assert that Christ changed the Sabbath are directly contradicting His own words. In His sermon on the mount He declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 150, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 52
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets;” Christ said, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] Not that they will in their transgression ever have a place in the family of God, but whatever their position on this earth may have been, the books of heaven declare them to be wanting. “But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 118, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 118, 1900, par. 6
Christ declares, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 28, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 28, 1900, par. 10
Precious light from the Word of God is shining upon us. Christ declared, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall not pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
Importance of Walking in the Path of Obedience
14MR 153.4
Christ declared to the Pharisees, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I saw unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven” [Matthew 5:17-19].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 7, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, par. 7
God calls upon us to give to the world the light He has given us. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets,” Christ said, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] This message is to be given to those nigh and afar off.16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, par. 8
“Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Verse 18.] This statement, made by Him who is the Alpha and the Omega, will in the day of judgment confront every transgressor of the law of God. How shall they escape who neglect so great salvation?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 135, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 135, 1902, par. 19
Christ declared to the Pharisees, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets, I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 139, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 20
In His ministerial labors Christ declared to the Pharisees and to the Sadducees and to all the Gentile world, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] Thus did He rebuke the pretentious piety of the Pharisees, and thus did He correct their erroneous ideas of the law of God.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 14—“In the Spirit and Power of Elias”
PK 183.2
In unmistakable language He testified to His regard for the law of Jehovah. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets,” He said; “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-19.The Great Controversy
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
GC 434.1
The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure, “as a faithful witness in heaven.” Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: “Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.” “All His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever.” Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8.GC 447.1
The claim so often put forth that Christ changed the Sabbath is disproved by His own words. In His Sermon on the Mount He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven,” Matthew 5:17-19.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
GC88 434.1
The law of God in the sanctuary in Heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone, and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch, were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point, were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” [Matthew 5:18.] The law of God, being a revelation of his will, a transcript of his character, must forever endure, “as a faithful witness in Heaven.” Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: “Forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in Heaven.” “All his commandments are sure. They stand fast forever and ever.” [Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8.]GC88 447.1
The claim so often put forth, that Christ changed the Sabbath, is disproved by his own words. In his sermon on the mount he said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of Heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of Heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 20—The Third Angel’s Message
4SP 280.1
The claim so often put forth, that Christ changed the Sabbath, is disproved by his own words. In his sermon on the mount he declared: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of Heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of Heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]The Review and Herald
November 6, 1913
RH November 6, 1913, Art. A, par. 16
In unmistakable language he testified to his regard for this law. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets,” he said; “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-19.Matthew 5:17-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 48, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 48, 1893, par. 4
In the Sermon on the Mount Christ plainly declared His mission. “Think not,” He said, “that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” [Matthew 5:17.] He came to carry out literally every specification concerning which the prophets had borne testimony. He who existed with the Father before the creation of the world, Himself gave the prophecies recorded by holy men—the prophecies that He came afterward to fulfill.8LtMs, Ms 48, 1893, par. 5
Christ separated jewels of truth from the companionship of error and placed them in their proper setting in the framework of truth. “Verily I say unto you,” He said, “till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 18-20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 79, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, par. 1
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily, I say unto you. Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, par. 10
The moral code of the Old Testament is found in full force in the New Testament. At the opening of his ministry, Christ, in his sermon on the Mount, gave an exposition of important portions of the law, the sense of which had been buried under human customs and traditions. He brought out the pure principles of God’s law, freeing it from the spurious and burdensome exactions placed upon it by man. As he showed the far-reaching claims of the law upon human hearts, the Pharisees saw that their pet theories, customs, and practices were being swept away his plain statements. Jealousy took possession of their hearts; for they felt that their teaching and influence over the people was becoming of none effect. In their hearts they had so long mingled human customs and practices with divine commands that when Christ did not recognize these customs and traditions, they thought he was making of none effect the law of God. But Christ read their thoughts, and suddenly they were startled by the words, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, par. 13
Christ’s work was to rid the commandments of the traditions and customs placed upon it by the Jews, which made it impossible to be kept. This work of covering the law with exactions, had been planned by the adversary of God’s law and the enemy of Jesus Christ, in order that Christ’s pure ministry should not harmonize with the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees. They had yielded to temptation in departing from the Lord, and though presenting to the people the law, which, with the annexed rigorous exactions was a yoke which neither they nor their fathers were able to bear, they did not keep it themselves. This led to the declaration of Christ, “Except your righteousness exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 89, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 17
Let us listen to His voice: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” Every specification of that law He came to fulfill. “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law until all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.] Christ came into the world to suffer and die, that man, being ransomed from the power of Satan’s authority, might have another probation in which to prove whether he would return to his loyalty, to keep the commandments of God and become the child of God.13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 18
The conditions are plainly specified, “Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except you righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 19, 20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 8, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 8, 1902, par. 13
The scribes and the Pharisees were cut to the heart. Dissatisfied, they were saying in their hearts, “He places no importance on the law, but makes it of none effect.” They were indignant; for they imagined that He was displacing their God-given religion by His own teachings. But in unmistakable language He revealed His attitude toward the divine law. Upon their astonished ears fell the words: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]17LtMs, Ms 8, 1902, par. 14
The Jews had placed their own estimate on the law. Some statutes they called the lesser commandments. Other statutes, they taught, were more essential. Meeting the people on their own ground, Christ said, “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.]17LtMs, Ms 8, 1902, par. 16
The Pharisees had made tradition and formalism the sum and substance of their religion. They were very exact in formally observing the law and instructing others to observe it. But Christ plainly stated to His disciples, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 20.] He taught them that no one can gain heavenly treasures by a mere belief in the commandments and by a merely formal observance of them. God requires true heart-repentance and a reformation in the life.Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1292—The Importance of Philippians 2 and 3; God’s Law To Be Proclaimed and Obeyed
17MR 320.4
The sermon on the mount is an exposition of the law of God. We need to become more familiar with this scripture. We need to study the following words: [Matthew 5:17-20, quoted].Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
God’s Law the Standard of Character
3MR 100.3
When people will acknowledge the claims of God by obedience, then they have a standard. If every individual would acknowledge the law, confusion would be swept away. We must do the will of God. They that do not accept the law, erect a standard of their own; and as there are many minds, diverse from each other, there will be many standards, and this will establish many doctrines. In this age we see determined efforts to ignore God’s law, and consequently the doctrine will not be understood. But if we know and do God’s will He will not leave us in darkness, but will lead us to know the doctrine and that will bring happiness. Obedience is the only course to take. When Christ taught His disciples He showed them the magnitude of the law by applying it to all our acts, and then showed our duty to our fellow men. The scribes and Pharisees murmured at Christ’s teaching and accused Him of doing away with the law of His Father. With what astonishment they must have heard from His lips, “Think not that I have come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” Christ continued, “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-20. He addresses these words to His disciples, and they will apply all the way down through the stream of time.The Bible Echo
August 5, 1895
BEcho August 5, 1895, par. 5
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.” “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 45, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 45, 1886, par. 6
When Christ taught His disciples, He showed them the magnitude of the law by applying it to all our acts and then showed our duty to our fellow men. The scribes and Pharisees murmured at Christ’s teaching and accused Him of doing away with the law of His Father. With what astonishment they must have heard from His lips, “Think not that I have come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” Christ continued, “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-20. He addresses these words to His disciples, and they will apply all the way down through the stream of time.4LtMs, Ms 45, 1886, par. 14
Can you tell me why the Son of God came to die for us? It was because of the transgression of Adam. In this he forfeited all right to heaven. Man then became separated from God, but Christ’s love for man caused Him to come to this earth, and He clothed His divinity with humanity that man might be reconciled to the Father and brought back to His law. Christ says that He came not to destroy the law, but He came to honor it, to give dignity to it. [Matthew 5:17.] He opened His bosom to suffer for the transgression.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 43, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 43, 1900, par. 28
For Christ to undertake the rescue of the world from Satan’s power was a very great undertaking in the greatest work that could be done in our world. Christ understood this. He became the object of the concentrated jealousy and revenge of the angelic fallen order. Satan was the prince of that order. Christ as the Commander of all heaven had pledged Himself to be bruised, if man whom He created should be deceived by the deceptive power of the fallen foe. Christ pledged Himself that He would bear the penalty of God’s violated law. Did He engage to annul that law? No, because that could never be done. Christ Himself declared that not a jot nor a tittle of it could be destroyed as long as the heavens and the earth remained. Read Matthew 5:17-20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 56, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 27
In His sermon on the mount Christ bore witness to the immutability of God’s law. “Think not,” He said, “that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 187, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 187, 1903, par. 21
The sermon on the mount is an exposition of the law of God. We need to become more familiar with this Scripture. We need to study the following words: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 78, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 78, 1904, par. 9
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets,” Christ declared; “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-20.]Matthew 5:17-45
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 25
The Pharisees and scribes were thinking in their hearts that He is making of no account the law of God. He is certainly arriving at a supervision of the law of God. And then fell upon their startled ears these words, as if Jesus had read their hearts as an open book, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.]7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 26
That is, all the heavenly intelligences will look upon the human agents on earth with favor, estimating their value according to the respect and reverence they manifest toward the great moral standard of righteousness—the holy law of God. “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 20.] How can any one of us in the judgment meet the great Lawgiver over His broken law which is so plainly stated in its importance by the words of the Redeemer.7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 28
“Love your enemies, bless them that curse you; pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” [Verses 44, 45.] Here are the principles of true Christianity, and He presented these principles in no hesitating manner, but taught them as one having authority. They must be imitators of God, pure and holy and undefiled by the maxims and traditions of men. These principles were too holy to be corrupted by the inventions of man.Matthew 5:18
Counsels for the Church
The Blessings of Sabbath Observance
CCh 271.4
So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one Sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall go up “to worship before Me, saith the Lord.” Matthew 5:18; Isaiah 66:23.493The Desire of Ages, 283The Upward Look
God, the Revealer of Secrets, March 23
UL 96.5
Man’s word fails, and he who takes the assertions of man as his dependence may well tremble, for he will one day be as a shipwrecked vessel. But God’s Word is infallible and endures forever. Christ declares, “Verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” (Matthew 5:18). God’s Word will endure through the ceaseless ages of eternity.This Day With God
The Conflict Over, January 6
TDG 14.1
For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:18.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 29—Jesus Rescues the Sabbath
HLv 186.2
The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world. Like the other precepts of the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law Christ declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one Sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall go up “to worship before Me, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 66:23.From Here to Forever
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
HF 268.3
Those who arrived at an understanding of this point saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Sanctuary and the Sabbath
CIHS 165.1
The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure, “as a faithful witness in heaven.” Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: “Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.” “All His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever.” Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8.Homeward Bound
The Sabbath Created by Christ, June 15
HB 188.6
The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world. It had been made known to the human race in Eden, and, like the other precepts of the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law of which the fourth commandment forms a part, Christ declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one Sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall go up “to worship before Me, saith the Lord.” (Matthew 5:18; Isaiah 66:23.)—The Desire of Ages, 281, 283.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 2, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 2, 1893, par. 7
Christ is the true light which has lightened the whole world. He came and died on the cross. Did He accomplish this to do away with the law of God? No! In His sermon on the mount, Christ declared that not a jot or a tittle of the law should fail or pass away, as long as the heavens and the earth remain. [Matthew 5:18.] He came to magnify the law and make it honorable, as stated in Isaiah 42:21. And thus will it be regarded by all who have the true light, and thus will it stand, thoroughly vindicated in the great day of God when every case is decided. The law of Jehovah stands firm as His throne. The cross of Calvary is the great unanswerable argument in that great day as to the immutability of the law of God and condemnation of all who had the light and refused light and accepted error to avoid the cross.Heaven
Chapter 15—The Earth Made New
Hvn 142.3
The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world. It had been made known to man in Eden, and, like the other precepts of the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law of which the fourth commandment forms a part, Christ declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall ... “worship before me, saith the Lord.”—The Desire of Ages, 283 quoted in The Faith I Live By, 37.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 63, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 63, 1897, par. 34
Christ has declared, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:18.] God’s wisdom and truthfulness are changeless, and in that great day when sentence is executed against the despisers of His law, the cross of Christ will show that He is a God of love in thus executing justice. Those who refuse to obey His law during probationary time could not with safety be received into His kingdom, for they would labor as earnestly and zealously against the law of God’s government as did the first apostate. There would be a second rebellion in heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 39, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 39, 1899, par. 3
Man’s word fails, and he who takes the assertions of man as his dependence may well tremble, for he will one day be as a shipwrecked vessel. But God’s Word is infallible and endures forever. Christ declares, “Verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:18.] God’s Word will endure through the ceaseless ages of eternity.The Three Angels’ Messages
Historical setting
3AM 76.3
The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure, “as a faithful witness in heaven.” Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: “Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.” “All His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever.” Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8.Lift Him Up
God’s Law Stands for Ever, May 2
LHU 136.5
The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law” (Matthew 5:18).Our Father Cares
The Conflict Over, September 1
OFC 256.1
For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:18.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 43—The Death of Moses
PP 469.2
The infinite love of God has been manifested in the gift of His only-begotten Son to redeem a lost race. Christ came to the earth to reveal to men the character of His Father, and His life was filled with deeds of divine tenderness and compassion. And yet Christ Himself declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. The same voice that with patient, loving entreaty invites the sinner to come to Him and find pardon and peace, will in the judgment bid the rejecters of His mercy, “Depart from Me, ye cursed.” Matthew 25:41. In all the Bible, God is represented not only as a tender father but as a righteous judge. Though He delights in showing mercy, and “forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin,” yet He “will by no means clear the guilty.” Exodus 34:7.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 29—The Sabbath
DA 283.2
The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world. It had been made known to man in Eden, and, like the other precepts of the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law of which the fourth commandment forms a part, Christ declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one Sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall go up “to worship before Me, saith the Lord.” Matthew 5:18; Isaiah 66:23.The Faith I Live By
To Be Kept in Eternity, January 31
FLB 37.4
The Sabbath was not for Israel merely, but for the world. It had been made known to man in Eden, and, like the other precepts of the Decalogue, it is of imperishable obligation. Of that law of which the fourth commandment forms a part, Christ declares, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.” Matthew 5:18. So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun. “From one sabbath to another” the inhabitants of the glorified new earth shall ... “worship before me, saith the Lord.” 136The Desire of Ages, 281-283.The Faith I Live By
Jesus’ Example in Law Keeping, March 20
FLB 85.4
“Till heaven and earth pass,” said Jesus, “one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” Matthew 5:18. The sun shining in the heavens, the solid earth upon which you dwell, are God’s witnesses that His law is changeless and eternal. Though they may pass away, the divine precepts shall endure. “It is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail.” Luke 16:17....Matthew 5:18-19
From Here to Forever
Only Through Faith
HF 291.4
Let none deceive themselves that they can become holy while willfully violating one of God’s requirements. Known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. Though John dwells so fully upon love, he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.” 1 John 2:4, 5. Here is the test of every man’s profession. If men belittle and make light of God’s precepts, if they “break one of the least of these commandments and teach men so” (Matthew 5:18, 19), we may know that their claims are without foundation.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Only Through Faith
GrH_c 28.3
Let none deceive themselves that they can become holy while willfully violating one of God’s requirements. Known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. Though John dwells so fully upon love, he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.” 1 John 2:4, 5. Here is the test of every man’s profession. If men belittle and make light of God’s precepts, if they “break one of the least of these commandments and teach men so” (Matthew 5:18, 19), we may know that their claims are without foundation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 21
Men will arise, saying, Here is Christ, here, here, here; but is He there, while they are trampling the commandments under their feet? Christ says, “Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments, [MacKnight translation] you shall be of no esteem in the reign of heaven. Not as long as the heavens remain shall one jot or one tittle pass.” [Matthew 5:19, 18.] And one said to me, Why do you talk so much about the law, why not talk more about Jesus? We honor both the Father and the Son when we talk about the law. The Father gave us the law, and the Son died to magnify it and make it honorable.Matthew 5:19
God’s Amazing Grace
Above Earthly Kingdoms, February 21
AG 60.1
Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 184, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 184, 1905, par. 3
“Where,” said the angel of God, “has been your discernment? Could you not discern that in following him, you will soon be adrift in faith and doctrine? Dr. Kellogg does not know that by his course he is ruining himself. He may think to build up the reputation of a great man, but the greatness he would gain is worthless in the estimation of heaven. ‘Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.’ [Matthew 5:19.] Men may call him great, but by the heavenly host he is called the least.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 356, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, par. 25
Parents, you carry responsibilities that no one can bear for you. As long as you live, you are accountable to God to keep His way. God speaks to parents when He says, “Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, the same shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:19.] Parents who make the Word of God their guide, and who realize how much their children depend upon them for the characters they form, will set such an example that it will be safe for their children to follow.Reflecting Christ
How We Magnify the Law, February 9
RC 54.1
“Whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:19, N.I.V.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Whosoever ... shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.”—Matthew 5:19.
“Whosoever ... shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.”—Matthew 5:19.
To Be Like Jesus
Disobedience Indicates Rebellion, February 19
BLJ 58.1
Whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19, NRSV.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Partial Obedience Not Acceptable
1TT 495.3
God will not pass over any transgression of His law more lightly now than in the day when He pronounced judgment against Adam. The Saviour of the world raises His voice in protest against those who regard the divine commandments with carelessness and indifference. Said He: “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, He shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:19. The teaching of our lives is wholly for or against the truth. If your works seem to justify the transgressor in his sin, if your influence makes light of breaking the commandments of God, then you are not only guilty yourself, but you are to a certain extent responsible for the consequent errors of others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 29, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 29, 1885, par. 11
At two P.M. I went to the hall to find only a very few assembled. I spoke. While speaking, Bro. Mallon came into the hall. He was very much excited; and if one word was uttered that he agreed with, he would nod his head as in approval. If on the contrary a word was spoken he did not approve of, he would gesticulate and shake his head, talk to others around him, and make violent denunciations. I kept right on as though I did not see this and did not hear his words of disapproval. As I read the words of Christ in his memorable sermon on the mount, “If any man shall break one of these least commandments and shall teach men so, etc.” [Matthew 5:19] he jumped up and flourished his arms and screamed out to Eld. Bourdeau, my interpreter, “Do you keep all the commandments any better than did the Pharisees? answer me!” We kept right on with our work as calmly as if an angry, half-frantic man was not acting before us as if possessed of the devil. He grasped his hat and flew out of the hall in a rage and gathered around himself several and talked to them like a mad man. This was not a very encouraging beginning, but we will remain and see if the Lord has anything further for me to do.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 53, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 53, 1894, par. 44
Christ said to the humble fishermen, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men, and straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him. [Mark 1:17, 18.] Those who have genius which shines with brightness in the kingdoms of this world, often [do] not have a desire for a place in the Lord’s kingdom. High birth, hereditary greatness, wealth, and high sounding titles do not bring men into special favor with God. The Lord passes these by, and today accepts that which He accepted when He walked among men in the garb of humanity. He chooses men from the humble walks of life and esteems them for their piety alone. He says, “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and keep them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:19.]Matthew 5:19-20
Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]
MR No. 1223—The Parable of the Ten Virgins
16MR 275.1
Let no one take for granted that he is saved. Sanctification is the work of a lifetime. Said Christ, “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven” [Matthew 5:19, 20].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 92a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 92a, 1898, par. 34
Let no one take for granted that he is saved. Sanctification is the work of a lifetime. Said Christ, “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, the same shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoso shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:19, 20.]Matthew 5:19-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 201, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 201, 1903, par. 9
The subject of education from babyhood has the first claim of the mother. The education in the city homes cannot be as pleasant and favorable as the education of children in country homes among fields and trees and flowers. [See] Matt. 5:19-23. The Lord Jesus would have parents consider that the very first discipline of fathers and mothers is to be very attentive to the carrying out of the purpose of God in their home life.Matthew 5:20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 58, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 58, 1895, par. 10
Jesus cursed the barren fig tree. He had testified to His disciples, “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.] There were leafless trees in that fig orchard, but nothing was expected of them. They made no pretensions to religious piety or righteousness. They were in darkness and error, waiting for a light to lighten the Gentiles.That I May Know Him
The Righteousness That God Requires, April 18
TMK 114.1
For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20.The Faith I Live By
Self-righteousness Insufficient, April 12
FLB 108.1
For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”—Matthew 5:20.
“Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”—Matthew 5:20.
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 7, 1880
3LtMs, Lt 7, 1880, par. 7
I dreamed night before last that I was talking with two ladies who had been privileged to learn the truth had they desired it, but they would not yield to evidence. I was telling them this. I told them they chose darkness rather than the light. I commenced at the law given from Sinai and came down to Christ’s sermon on the Mount. I repeated these words: “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20. I felt more and more the Spirit of God until they saw and felt that it was no more I that spoke but God speaking through me. They turned pale and trembled. I was conscious I was in the Spirit, elevated above myself; God was using me as His mouthpiece. I seemed to be soaring up from earth to heaven, and as I was repeating these words, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” John 5:40. I cried it out so loud and shrill Mary awoke me, and lo, it was a dream. It made quite an impression on my mind.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 30, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 30, 1886, par. 7
Christ laid the truth before the Jewish people and called them to obedience. If they had accepted His counsel, they would not have cherished hatred in their hearts. But Christ declared, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 27, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 27, 1890, par. 20
But before this can be accomplished, a deeper work of grace must be done in the hearts of believers. Christ will accept nothing short of wholehearted service. To the Jews He said, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.] The charge that He brought against the Jewish leaders was that their piety was not sincere, but superficial—a cloak put on to conceal the deformity of their motives and purposes.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 20, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 20, 1892, par. 32
Sin is death; righteousness is life. Sin cannot be changed into righteousness, but it can be taken away, and the righteousness of Christ put in its place. The Saviour was manifested to take away our sin. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.” [Romans 6:23.] The Pharisees trusted in their own righteousness, of which Christ said, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.] Of the Jewish leaders, He said, “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The righteousness of Christ brings life and healing. “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.” [Colossians 2:6.] In Him all fulness dwells.Matthew 5:20-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 102, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 102, 1901, par. 11
God calls upon the members of the Healdsburg church to make thorough work for eternity. He calls for repentance and reformation. Christ has given directions for the guidance of church members, declaring that they are to show Christian interest in one another. If one commits sin, his brethren are not to talk of it among themselves. Go first to the one who has offended, and tell him his faults between him and thee alone. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] Do church members obey this word?16LtMs, Lt 102, 1901, par. 19
It is a sin to entertain anger in the heart against a brother or a sister in the church. Christ treats anger as murder. For one brother to bring a railing accusation against another brother is an offense of the gravest order. “But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause”—O, how much of this there is in the church today!—“shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.” [Matthew 5:22.] God has a controversy with that man. He thinks he has occasion for feeling angry, for calling his brother “Raca,” “vain fellow,” but these passionate words are a savor of death unto death. He who utters them is not co-operating with God to save his fellow man. In heaven this wicked railing is placed in the same list as common swearing.16LtMs, Lt 102, 1901, par. 22
Study the words of the Saviour which come sounding down along the line to our time, “Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case,”—whatever your position or responsibility,—“enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 20.] The righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees was of a selfish character, consisting of external forms. The righteousness which God requires is internal as well as external. The heart must be purified, else Christ cannot be enthroned therein. The life must be conformed to the will of God.Matthew 5:21-32
Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
The Testimony of S. N. Haskell
EGWE 244.4
“In Psalm 138:2 are found these words, ‘Thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.’ In Isaiah 42:21, we have the prophecy concerning Christ: ‘The Lord is well pleased for his righteousness’ sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable.’ An illustration of the principle of how it is magnified is found in Matthew 5:21-26 which verses magnify the sixth commandment, while verses 27-32 magnify the seventh commandment. Itis this principle alone that is a positive proof of inspiration, and any prophet who does not make other scriptures seem broader and more wonderful, does not bear the right kind of fruit.”—S. N. Haskell, quoted in F. C. Gilbert, Divine Predictions Fulfilled, pp. 29-33.Matthew 5:22
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Everyone who is angry with his brother shall be in danger of the judgment.”—Matthew 5:22, R. V.
“Everyone who is angry with his brother shall be in danger of the judgment.”—Matthew 5:22, R. V.
Matthew 5:22-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 98a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 32
I feel deeply over the spirit which is being manifest, because it works like evil leaven. Those who are led by it do not first go to the one they witness against and lay every charge before them. They do not give them an opportunity to clear themselves. But Christ declares, “I say unto you, that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment; and whosoever shall say unto his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council; but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there the gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:22-24.]Matthew 5:22-48
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 21, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 21, 1888, par. 3
There is not the least need, my brethren, of disunion and variance among us. No such thing should exist among Christians. When you speak, let your words savor of unity and love. We are Christians, how can we be in the least perplexed in regard to the course we should pursue toward each other? Christ has given the plainest rules for us to follow in (Matthew 5:22), “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar and there remember that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift.”5LtMs, Lt 21, 1888, par. 25
You have made grave charges against me in your letter sent to me at this place, but as yet I do not see their justice. I wrote to you from Switzerland in the fear of God. I was doing a work in this matter that was not pleasant to me, but I felt it my duty to do this work. If my letter caused so grave consequences to you as five months illness, I shall not be held accountable for it; for if you had received it in the right spirit, it would have had no such results. I wrote in the anguish of my soul in regard to the course you pursued in the General Conference [Session] two years since. The Lord was not pleased with that meeting. Your spirit, my brother, was not right. The matter in which you treated the case of Dr. Waggoner was perhaps after your own order, but not after God’s order. The course you took was not excusable, even if his views were questionable. We must not crowd and push one another because others do not see just as we see. We must treat others with Christ-like courtesy, even if they differ with us. Matthew 5:43-48; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:16-18; 4:7, 8.Matthew 5:23-24
Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Forbearance Under Wrong
GW 475.3
Do not retaliate. So far as you can do so, remove all cause for misapprehension. Avoid the appearance of evil. Do all that lies in your power, without the sacrifice of principle, to conciliate others. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters
Remarks Made by Mrs. E. G. White
PC 84.1
We may find valuable instruction in the words of Christ: “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” (Matthew 5:23, 24)Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Judge Not
3TT 229.2
In the word of God we are given plain directions as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says: “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” And again the Saviour says: “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 18:15-17; 5:23, 24.With God at Dawn
Be Reconciled to Thy Brother, August 2
WGD 216.1
Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Matthew 5:23, 24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 1c, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 1
I have a few words to say to you, my brethren, in reference to the subject we were recently conversing about. I have had no conversation with Brother Rogers; for I have felt that it is best for those who are at variance to follow the Bible directions. The Saviour has said, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” Matthew 18:15. This kind of work requires the grace of Christ in the heart. There is alienation and division where none should exist—among those who profess to be the children of God; and the reason for this is that men are hearers, readers of the words of Christ, but not doers.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 204, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 204, 1902, par. 2
In my talk I referred to (Matthew 5:23, 24) and to the second chapter of James. How many are there who have the religion presented in these Scriptures?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 166, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 166, 1902, par. 35
The Saviour’s instruction is unmistakably plain. He says: “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 32, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 32, 1902, par. 16
In the Word of God we are given plain direction as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says, “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.] And in the sermon on the mount the Saviour says, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there remember that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 215, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 215, 1902, par. 4
“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Help In Daily Living
Forbearance Under Wrong
HDL 26.2
Do not retaliate. So far as you can do so, remove all cause for misapprehension. Avoid the appearance of evil. Do all that lies in your power, without the sacrifice of principle, to conciliate others. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 5:23, 24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 12, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 12, 1903, par. 1
I have just read your letters. I want the reformatory work of which you speak to be carried on firmly and decidedly. This can only be done by following the counsel of the great Teacher, who gave His life for the world, and whose we are by creation and by redemption. His directions are full and complete. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 14, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 14, 1903, par. 41
Before presenting to God your offering of prayer, do you go to your brother and in the Spirit of Christ talk with him? Christ says, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] Then you can offer it with a clear conscience; for you have cast out the root of bitterness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 89, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 89, 1903, par. 4
Christ has laid down the rules that we are to follow in dealing with one another. In His sermon on the mount He said, “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 29, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 7
His directions are plain. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] Without delay make every effort to heal the wrong that exists. Do not, by speaking unwise words, give the enemy opportunity to arouse suspicion and evil surmising in the mind of your brother. Be determined to do all in your power to make the wrong right. Do not tell to a third person the story of the difficulty. Go directly to the one who has erred, and “tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” Go to him, not to condemn, but to seek for reconciliation, because Christ has told you to love one another as He has loved you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 54, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 54, 1904, par. 1
We may find valuable instruction in the words of Christ: “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 112, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 112, 1904, par. 9
“If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 143, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 143, 1905, par. 2
“If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 890—Counsels to A. T. Jones
11MR 208.4
[Matthew 5:23, 24; 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:9, 10; Romans 1:16-18; 2 John 1:9-12, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 350, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 350, 1905, par. 3
Since I have written upon the subject of thinking evil and speaking evil more especially of late, I know as a people our strong protest should be not to say anything that would throw suspicion upon brethren, but go directly to the ones [concerned] and converse with them. Angels of God will be in such interviews held. The Lord God of Israel would be honored and His name glorified by spending voice and words and talent and every gift of power of influence to take heed and work in harmony with Christ. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 5:23, 24. Those who have been wronged or offended should ever be ready to forgive and take every measure possible to gain reconciliation with those who have wronged or offended them or to remove the impression from minds which may be worked up into alienation over supposed injustice. Clear the moral atmosphere of the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 159, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 159, 1905, par. 1
There are some things that are to be confessed to God alone. If you have wronged a brother or a sister, you have the light given you in the Word. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and to thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] “If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established. And if he neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 140, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 10
Now here that lawyer said they were to do certain things, and then what? “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] Well, if “thy neighbor” commits an error or a fault, don’t spread it all around through the church or wherever you can. But Christ has told us what to do—to go right to him and tell him his fault between him and you alone. And then He tells them there is a chance of saving that soul if they will do it. “If you bring your gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, go first and be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer this gift.” [Matthew 5:23, 24.] What kind of a world would we have if we should follow and obey the commandments of God?EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 5:16
This Day With God
A Life Like His, July 17
TDG 207.1
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16.This Day With God
Flickering Lights, December 21
TDG 364.1
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16.Counsels on Health
Encourage One Another
CH 242.2
We have none too many sanitariums. There is in our world a great field for true medical missionary work. Our sanitariums are to be as lights shining amid the moral darkness. In them the sick and suffering are to behold the miracle-working power of Christ as revealed in the lives of the workers. “Let your light so shine before men,” says Christ, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. Let the lamp of light from the word of God shine forth unmistakably.To Be Like Jesus
Carry Light and Hope Everywhere, September 3
BLJ 261.1
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16, NKJV.Welfare Ministry
Gem Thought
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16.
Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Pledge to the Master’s Service
2TT 161.1
We are not to wait to be solicited to give light, to be importuned for counsel or instruction. Everyone who receives the rays of the Sun of Righteousness is to reflect its brightness to all about him. His religion should have a positive and decided influence. His prayers and entreaties should be so imbued with the Holy Spirit that they will melt and subdue the soul. Said Jesus: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. It would be better for a worldling never to have seen a professor of religion than to come under the influence of one who is ignorant of the power of godliness. If Christ were our pattern, His life our rule, what zeal would be manifested, what efforts put forth, what liberality exercised, what self-denial practiced! How untiringly should we labor, what fervent petitions for power and wisdom would ascend to God! If all the professed children of God would feel that it is the chief business of life to do the work which He has bidden them to do, if they would labor unselfishly in His cause, what a change would be seen in hearts and homes, in churches, yea, in the world itself!Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Presumptuous Leaders
1TT 170.1
Others go to an extreme in their conformity to the world. There is no clear, distinct line of separation between them and the worldling. If in one case men are driven away from the truth by a harsh, censorious, condemnatory spirit, in this they are led to conclude that the professed Christian is destitute of principle and knows nothing of a change of heart or character. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16), are the words of Christ.—1885, Testimonies for the Church 5:305, 306.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Direct Minds to Jesus
1TT 530.2
Said Christ: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. Let your light so shine that the glory will redound to God instead of to yourselves. If the praise comes to you, well may you tremble and be ashamed, for the great object is defeated; it is not God, but the servant, that is magnified. Let your light so shine; be careful, minister of Christ, in what manner your light shines. If it flashes heavenward, revealing the excellence of Christ, it shines aright. If it is turned upon yourself, if you exhibit yourself, and attract the people to admire you, it would be better for you to hold your peace altogether: for your light shines in the wrong way.Homeward Bound
A Light in the Neighborhood, September 6
HB 275.1
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.—Matthew 5:16.With God at Dawn
Let Your Light Shine, October 5
WGD 280.1
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16.Counsels on Health
Co-operating With Christian Temperance Workers
CH 437.2
My brethren, be workers together with Christ. Make every possible effort in season and out of season to spread the light of present truth. The Lord has taught us how safe is the cable that anchors us to the living Rock. Here is an opportunity to labor for those who have truth on some points, but who on other points are not safely anchored. Keep in touch with the people wherever you can. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 4, 1865
1LtMs, Ms 4, 1865, par. 16
Had the church in Convis considered their eternal interest paramount to their earthly interest, they would ere this have erected a house for God. This would have said plainly to unbelievers, We believe what we profess. The kingdom of heaven and His righteousness first. We want you to hear and believe to the saving of the soul. Said the angel to you in Convis, “Your faith must be made perfect by works before you can grow in grace and flourish in the Lord.” Satan is not opposed to your believing the truth while at the same time your works are not in accordance with it. It causes him no terror for you to say “I believe” while your works do not justify your faith and you remain spiritually dead. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 19b, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 19b, 1874, par. 8
I entreated of our brethren to do something, to do it now, and if brethren here in California were not intending to do more in the present season than they had been doing heretofore, our duty was plainly before us to return east and attend the camp meetings. Was it not time now to make extended efforts in place of pitching their tents in the smallest places? Imitate the great Teacher. His example is worthy of being followed. He placed Himself in the great thoroughfare of travel, where people were going to and from all nations of the world. The great lessons of truth were heard and accepted by many, and His utterances were carried to all parts of the world and repeated as the wisest sayings. This important truth was not kept in a dark corner. “Let your light so shine before men.” [Matthew 5:16.] Here it is the design of God that others should see the light. Your ideas are too limited.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 16, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 16, 1879, par. 13
Christians are the light of the world. They should let their light shine in their own homes, and “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 10, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 10, 1888, par. 5
I want to know why, as Christians who profess to believe the most solemn truths that God ever gave to mortals, we should not have works to correspond to our faith. Christ has said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] That is the work we are to do, and God will help us by letting His light shine through us. We want to be the very best and most intelligent workers that there are anywhere.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 24, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 24, 1890, par. 31
“Let your light so shine before men.” [Matthew 5:16.] That so means much for you. Be sure that your light comes from the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, for then only is it the true light. Through mistaking the light, many pursue a course that ruins souls instead of saving them. They misapprehend the Christian character and thus turn souls away from the true path. Their light does not proceed from the Sun of Righteousness, but from sparks of their own kindling.Counsels on Health
Exert a Saving Influence
CH 592.2
“This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4. The world has become a lazar house of sin, a mass of corruption. It knows not the children of God because it knows Him not. We are not to practice its ways or follow its customs. Continually we are to resist its lax principles. Christ said to His followers, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. It is the duty of physicians and nurses to shine as lights amid the corrupting influences of the world. They are to cherish principles which the world cannot tarnish.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 6a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 6a, 1890, par. 51
A decided warfare should be waged against the evils not only in the world, but also among those who claim to believe the truth for this time. These evils, if not put away, will result in spiritual death. The Lord bids us, “Let your light so shine that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] There must be a waking up; consecrated efforts must be put forth, that will tell powerfully against every form of evil.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 25b, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 25b, 1892, par. 6
How pleasing it would be to our Saviour, whose children we are, if all would cherish love for one another and make every exertion in their power to see eye to eye, to be at agreement. Jesus said, “The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one even as we are one: I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] In what way is our light shining? The influence of our work upon the world will be affected to a great degree by the attitude we maintain toward one another. When you publish to the world that there is variance among those who are warning the world of Christ’s soon coming, what will be the effect upon those to whom we would give the message of truth? Will it increase their faith in the work that is committed to us?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 10, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 10, 1892, par. 12
Now missionaries are wanted, and if the many in the church at Battle Creek had expended less money and less time in the outward adorning, and in many trivial things, their minds might have been enriched with the grace of Christ; and they, growing up into Christ, could have enriched others. The truth would burn like holy fire upon the altar of the heart, a light to shine amid the darkness. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
In Co-Operation with Christ
CT 398.3
The Saviour in His teachings ever showed the relation between cause and effect. To His followers in every age He speaks, saying, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. The man or woman who has a knowledge of the truth, but whose life does not express its principles, is hiding his light. My brethren, let the light be brought from under the bushel, that it may make known the truths of the gospel. Invisible agencies will work through the visible; the supernatural will co-operate with the natural, the heavenly with the earthly; unknown things will be revealed through the known. Let the grace of Christ be revealed to teach that man may be renewed in the likeness of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 53, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 21
We are to beware of indulging a spirit of bigotry and intolerance. We are not to stand aside from others in a spirit that seems to say, “Come not near; I am holier than thou.” [Isaiah 65:5.] Do not shut yourselves away from your fellow men, but seek to impart to them the precious truth that has blessed your own heart. Let it be manifest that yours is the religion of love. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 28, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 28, 1894, par. 15
Christ prayed for His followers, “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.” [John 17:15-17.] Here in this wicked world our light is to shine forth in good works. Christ charged His disciples with this responsibility. He said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 44, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 9
God speaks to every one that knows the truth, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Communicate the knowledge of the truth to others. This is God’s plan to enlighten the world. If you do not stand in your allotted place, if you do not let your light shine, you will become enshrouded in darkness. God calls upon all the sons and daughters of the heavenly family to be fully equipped, so that at any period they can step into the ranks ready for action. The heart made tender and sympathetic by the love of Jesus will find the precious pearls designed for casket of the Lord Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 22c, 1895 [Copy 3]
10LtMs, Ms 22c, 1895, par. 26
“If all our people would work in Christ’s way, what a blessing it would be. There are many ways in which to diffuse light, and a great work can be done in many lines that is not now done. ‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ [Matthew 5:16.] This spirit will inspire others to do the will of the Lord also, in earnest, self-sacrificing effort.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 65, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 65, 1895, par. 18
The principles manifest in dealing with individuals, in restricting and repressing them, are not according to the mind of the Spirit of God. The Lord will not countenance this kind of work from your hands. He will not have His work and His cause bear the mark of any man’s injustice. I repeat the warnings. Be sure that you display the religion of love, not of bigotry. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] If you continue to advance in the same course you have pursued in dealing with God’s heritage, such a condition of things will soon be produced that God will manifest the folly and unrighteousness of men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 68, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 68, 1895, par. 14
God wants us to represent Him to the world by living holy, obedient lives. He wants us to exert a saving influence upon humanity. Every soul is accountable for the influence he has upon those around him. You may wrap yourself in your robe of self-righteousness and say, “I am saved,” but the Word of God says, “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] God wants us to lay our abilities and capabilities at the feet of Him who has bought us, for body, soul, and spirit we belong to Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 22b, 1895 [Copy 2]
10LtMs, Ms 22b, 1895, par. 29
“If all our people would work in Christ’s way, what a blessing it would be. There are many ways in which to diffuse light, and a great work can be done in many lines that is not now done. ‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ [Matthew 5:16.] This spirit will inspire others to do the will of the Lord also.Faith and Works
Chapter 8—God’s Commandment-Keeping People
FW 59.1
All heaven has been looking with intense interest upon those who claim to be God’s commandment-keeping people. Here are the people who ought to be able to claim all the rich promises of God; who ought to be going on from glory to glory and from strength to strength; who ought to be in a position to reflect glory to God in the works that they do. Jesus has said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 45, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 45, 1895, par. 3
Self-sacrificing Christians will unite to impress the truth upon their neighbors by living a life of practical godliness. They will seek earnestly to labor in the Master’s service, to show forth the power of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. They will obey the instruction of Christ, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Every member of the church is to strive to learn, that he may communicate light to others, and that he may know what is needed to help those that are in darkness. All must watch for souls “as they that must give account.” [Hebrews 13:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 122, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 122, 1895, par. 4
The principles manifested in dealing with individuals, in restricting and oppressing them, are not in accordance with the mind of the Spirit of God. The Lord will not countenance this kind of work from your hands. He will not have His work and His cause bear the mark of any man’s injustice. I repeat the warnings. Be sure that you reveal the religion of love, not of bigotry. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. If you continue to advance in the same course you have pursued in dealing with God’s heritage, such a condition of things will soon be produced that God will manifest the folly and unrighteousness of men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 78, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 78, 1896, par. 48
I have not liberty to place my writing in the hands of men who feel that their work is to act the part of detectives over their brethren. My brethren in positions of trust, will you not discern your own deficiencies, and put on the whole armor of righteousness. Will you not be just as watchful and critical over your own spirits and temperaments and words as you are over those of others, lest God should be dishonored, and His truth misrepresented. Your discernment would be greatly improved if you would do this. The truth, the living Word, would be as a fire shut up in your bones, which would shine forth in clear, unmistakable distinctness, representing Christ to the world. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 74, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 74, 1896, par. 27
The evils of fashionable society have a tendency to corrupt, but every true follower of Christ, every one who has “This hope” in Him, will purify himself even as He is pure, so that not a taint of defilement will be found in his thoughts or upon his lips, in his heart or in his character. [1 John 3:3.] There must be a coming up to a higher, holier standard. A decided warfare should be waged against the evils, not only in the world, but also among those who claim to believe the truth for this time. These evils, if not put away, will result in spiritual death. The Lord bids us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] There must be a waking up. Concentrated effort must be put forth, that will tell powerfully against every form of evil.