EGW WritingsMatthew 7

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 11, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 11, 1895, par. 9

Our words, our course of action, our precept and example testify before angels and men whether or not the saving quality and value of truth is in us. The Saviour said, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] Christ says, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Christians are not to merge their ways into the ways of the world <so that the line between righteousness and wrong-doing is not discernible.> They are to sow the seed of heavenly principles in their spirit and practices. They are to stand as distinct from the world as Christ has said they should be. He has represented them thus: “A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick that it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Verses 14-16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 31b, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 31b, 1895, par. 10

The poor, our family have had to assist in food and clothing, and to help the widow and fatherless by money gifts as well as food and clothing. This is a part of our work as Christians which cannot be neglected. Christ said, “The poor ye have always with you” [Matthew 26:11], and in this part of the Lord’s vineyard, that is literally true. Doing good in all its forms is enjoined upon the Lord’s missionaries by the Holy Scriptures. Read 2 Corinthians 9. You see, our work is not only to preach, but as we see suffering humanity in the world, we are to help them in their temporal necessities. Thus we will be instruments in the hands of God, “being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God, for the administration of this service, and not only supplieth the wants of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God. Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them and unto all men.” [Verses 11, 12.] We have, as Christians, to be missionaries. Holy and beneficent action, flowing from pure love to God and the souls for whom Christ died, constitutes the highest development of evangelical piety, and is the most conclusive evidence that we can give to the world that our religion is not spurious and selfish and hypocritical. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 32a, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, par. 15

This is the day of the Lord’s preparation. We have no time now to talk unbelief and to gossip, no time now to do the devil’s work. Let every one beware of unsettling the faith of others by sowing seeds of envy, jealousy, disunion; for God hears the words, and judges, not by assertions, which are yea and nay, but by the fruit one’s course of action produces. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] The seed sown will determine the character of the harvest.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Truth Elevates

1TT 165.1

The law of God will be satisfied with nothing short of perfection, of perfect and entire obedience to all its claims. To come halfway to its requirements, and not render perfect and thorough obedience, will avail nothing. The worldling and the infidel admire consistency and have ever been powerfully convicted that God was of a truth with His people when their works correspond with their faith. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20. Every tree is known by its own fruits. Our words, our actions, are the fruit we bear.

1TT 165.3

I was shown that the following scripture is applicable to those who are under such a deception: “Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have not we prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:21-23.

Christ Triumphant

Not Only Believe, But Do the Will of the Father, December 23

CTr 364.1

Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Matthew 7:21, NRSV.

The Upward Look

Recount God’s Goodness, February 16

UL 61.4

Such a testimony will have an influence upon others. No more effective means can we employ for winning souls to Christ. And our love is to be shown, not only in words, but in deeds, in personal ministry and sacrifice. Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters

B.214’06

PC 81.6

In response to the question, Who shall enter the kingdom of heaven? Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

The Review and Herald

February 14, 1888

RH February 14, 1888, par. 1

Text: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven.” Matthew 7:21.

With God at Dawn

Obedience Necessary to Enter Heaven, June 4

WGD 157.1

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 27, 1872

2LtMs, Lt 27, 1872, par. 23

My brother, if you are saved at last it must be by strong efforts on your own part. Any amount of talk will not be acceptable to God. God calls for works, for deeds. Talk is cheap, but deeds cost us an effort. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. “Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” James 2:17. We shall show all the faith we have by our works.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 17, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 17, 1887, par. 1

Text: “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. It is not enough to say, “I am a child of God,” but it’s our works that will <bear> witness if we are children of God. Every one who is a child of God will do the will of God. Profession is of no value unless it is followed by true practical godliness. Our Savior has a right to the service of every one of us. Our heavenly Father has made man in His own image. Who is it that has been supplying the <temporal> necessities of the human race all these years? Who is it that has given us <all> the things that are beautiful in nature? It is the Creator of heaven and earth that has done this, and the God who made man and who made the earth, that man might inhabit it, requires our service every day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 6, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 6, 1893, par. 11

Christ says many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able. See Matthew 7:21. And again, Lord, Lord have we not taught in thy streets? Some branches have never knitted to the true vine. They have died <in the process> and are to be taken away. Other dry branches have united fiber by fiber to the true vine, until they partake of the nurture of the parent stock, and they flourish. When religion comes into the heart and we put ourselves into <connection with Christ,> we can rise to the highest elevation of character. Do not say I do not know this. You must educate yourselves <until you do know this.> Many of us will stand before legislators, before kings and nobles. And we want to come to them in intelligence <of truth.> It will be a question of life unto life or of death unto death to them. Our way is pointed out so plainly. God wants you to go forward and upward, to reach the highest standard.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 10, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 10, 1893, par. 10

There is a religion which is nothing less than a deception. Selfishness is strengthened but not uprooted, it takes a position of secluded enjoyment. It is perfectly satisfied to contemplate the religion of Jesus Christ, but know nothing of its saving power. The religion of Christ always takes us in His footsteps; we see work, earnest work to be done for the Master. Christ said He came to preach the gospel to the poor; but it takes us to the poor, also to the rich in Caesar’s household. Sheaves are gathered from every place, high or low, rich or poor. What is holiness? It does not consist in profession, but in doing “the will of our Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.] The saying, “Lord, Lord,” will not secure an entrance for us into the kingdom of God. Let not any cheat their souls with this delusion because they are familiar with the doctrine of Christ and can talk of repentance and faith and exclaim, “I am saved. I am saved.” “He that saith I know him, and keepeth not his commandments is a liar and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 21, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 21, 1900, par. 37

And our love is to be shown, not only in words, but in deeds, in personal ministry and sacrifice. Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.] In His prayer to His Father He said of His disciples, “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:18.] In the commission which He gave to His disciples He included all who should believe in Him to the end of time. “Go ye into all the world,” He said, “and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.] “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.” [Matthew 10:8.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 22—Saying and Doing

COL 272.2

In the sermon on the mount Christ said, “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. The test of sincerity is not in words, but in deeds. Christ does not say to any man, What say ye more than others? but, “What do ye more than others?” Matthew 5:47. Full of meaning are His words, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” John 13:17. Words are of no value unless they are accompanied with appropriate deeds. This is the lesson taught in the parable of the two sons.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 94, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 94, 1902, par. 29

It is not enough for you to fold your hands, and say, “I am in the light.” Are you walking in the light? Is the genuineness of your profession demonstrated by practical, earnest endeavor? He who works for Christ makes steady advancement. It is the doers of the Word who will be justified before God. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 116, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 116, 1904, par. 26

You cannot do greater dishonor to Christ than to take His name, yet deny Him in your actions, and exalt yourself, instead of following His example of humility. If you do not practice His virtues, He will not accept you as His representative. When church members give evidence that they are born again, they will reveal a new life, and others will see by their good works that they are indeed bearing the fruits of righteousness. “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin. ... In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God.” [1 John 3:9, 10.] “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 166, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 166, 1905, par. 4

Nothing can take the place of obedience to a “Thus saith the Lord.” Knowledge that does not lead to a practice of self-denial and self-sacrifice of Christ, but to self-exaltation and self-sufficiency, is opposed to practical godliness. God calls for obedience. Self-sufficiency in a family or an institution means great injury to the work of God and to those who cherish it. True faith leads away from the selfish plans and self-pleasing that is contrary to God. Obedience, in order to be acceptable to God, must be the obedience that Christ ever offered to the Father. In response to the question, Who shall enter the kingdom of heaven? Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.] What must we do to inherit eternal life? The answer is, Keep the commandments. To the question, Who are the blessed? Christ answers, “Blessed are they who hear the word and do it.” [Luke 11:28.] “Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” “Without are dogs and sorcerers ... and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.” [Revelation 22:14, 15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 214, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 214, 1906, par. 5

In response to the question, Who shall enter the kingdom of heaven? Christ says, “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

Conflict and Courage

A Chance for All, November 8

CC 318.1

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21.

Faith and Works

To Wrestle, Labor, and Strive

FW 49.2

Faith and works will keep us evenly balanced and make us successful in the work of perfecting Christian character. Jesus says, “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter in the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Speaking of temporal food, the apostle said, “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The same rule applies to our spiritual nourishment; if any would have the bread of eternal life, let him make efforts to obtain it.

God’s Amazing Grace

Who Are Eligible? December 8

AG 350.2

God has elected a character in harmony with His law, and anyone who shall reach the standard of His requirement will have an entrance into the kingdom of glory. Christ Himself said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not on the Son shall not see life” (John 3:36). “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). And in the Revelation He declares, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14). As regards man’s final salvation, this is the only election brought to view in the Word of God.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Popular Holiness Meetings

GW92 226.2

There are those who profess holiness, who declare that they are wholly the Lord’s, who claim a right to the promises of God, while they do not render obedience to his commandments. These transgressors of the law claim everything that is promised to the children of God, but this is simply presumption; for John tells us that “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; hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” Jesus says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Obedience is the true sign of discipleship. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 19—The Return to Canaan

PP 207.4

There was no arbitrary choice on the part of God by which Esau was shut out from the blessings of salvation. The gifts of His grace through Christ are free to all. There is no election but one’s own by which any may perish. God has set forth in His word the conditions upon which every soul will be elected to eternal life—obedience to His commandments, through faith in Christ. God has elected a character in harmony with His law, and anyone who shall reach the standard of His requirement will have an entrance into the kingdom of glory. Christ Himself said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.” John 3:36. “Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. And in the Revelation He declares, “Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Revelation 22:14. As regards man’s final salvation, this is the only election brought to view in the word of God.

That I May Know Him

Profession Not Enough, April 17

TMK 113.1

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 60, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 60, 1893, par. 7

The Lord Jesus will open the eyes of all who have been walking in the light, that they shall not be deceived with the pretentious spirit of those who claim great sanctity and say, “Lord, Lord,” while they stubbornly refuse to do the will of God. [Matthew 7:21, 22.] Christ repeated the princely titles of Satan as one perfectly familiar with his workings and usurped authority. Christ gave the warnings to be heeded and pointed to Satan’s thrones, principalities and powers, and spiritual wickedness in high places.

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

MR No. 100—God’s Work and Institutions in Washington, D. C. Not To Be Controlled by Battle Creek

2MR 51.2

“Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you” [Matthew 7:21-23].

The Review and Herald

November 26, 1861

RH November 26, 1861, par. 7

Some Sabbath-keepers so earnestly desire to have friendship with the world, that they mangle their feelings and make wretched work of following Christ. They desire the approval of God and the friendship of the world too. Such, I saw, would certainly lose heaven. They do not enjoy this world, therefore they lose both. In these hours of probation all can choose life if they will. Their fruits will show their choice. For a life of humble obedience here, God will grant the rich reward hereafter. He will accept of nothing but entire consecration. A dreadful deception is upon many minds, even of Sabbath-keepers. They have neglected to cherish and follow the light God has given them, and have been left completely deceived. Please read Matthew 7:21-23. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 26, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 26, 1885, par. 18

Some who claim to love Jesus are deceivers, and all their religion is lip service. It does not transform the character. It does not reveal the inward working of grace. They do not show that they have ever learned in Christ’s school the lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. They do not show by life or character that they are wearing Christ’s yoke or lifting Christ’s burdens. They are not reaching the standard given them in God’s Word, but a human standard. Their life is not pure like Christ’s life. They are not being refined and ennobled by His Spirit. The way of truth they have not known, and they are of that number who will say, “Lord, Lord, open unto us. We have taught in the streets. We have done many wonderful works.” [Matthew 7:21, 22; Luke 13:25, 26.] But Christ will say of them, “I never knew you. Depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity. You were on the side of My great adversary, who transgressed My law. You worked with him to make void the law of God. While you professed to love Me you practiced this deception and led souls away from obedience into the path of transgression. Your claims to love Me were the putting on of the livery of heaven to serve My worst enemy. You identified yourself as among those who were making void My law, and your portion is with the hypocrites and unbelievers.” [Matthew 7:23; Luke 13:27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 4a, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 4a, 1898, par. 21

God will say to all such, Why did you not keep sacred My memorial of creation? Why did you not hear My warnings? “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name have cast out devils, and in thy name done many wonderful works? Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:21-23.] He who ventures to corrupt truth and exalt error, he who sells his intellect or integrity at any price to gain worldly advantage, will one day be denied in sorrow.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 91, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 17

Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” [Luke 13:26.] “Have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” [Matthew 7:22.]

19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 18

But Christ says, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” [Luke 13:27.] “Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 7:21.]

19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, par. 20

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built a house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 24-27.]

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 6—The Loving Watchcare of Jesus

1SM 81.5

Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious, and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets” (Luke 13:26). “Have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” (Matthew 7:22).

1SM 82.1

But Christ says, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me.” “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

1SM 82.2

There is no discussion; the time for that is past. The irrevocable sentence has been pronounced. They are shut out from heaven by their own unfitness for its companionship. (Read Matthew 7:24-27.)—Letter 91, 1904.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 102, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 102, 1898, par. 3

God looks upon the heart. By a parable Christ warned His hearers: “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in my name, and in thy name cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:21-23.]

13LtMs, Ms 102, 1898, par. 4

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 24-27.]

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Chapter 19—Distressing Experiences of 1888

1888 180.2

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:21-25.

1888 181.1

“And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand [on his own human efforts]: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:26, 27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 21, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 21, 1888, par. 16

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:21-25.

5LtMs, Ms 21, 1888, par. 18

“And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand (on his own human efforts): and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:26-27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 2, 1878

3LtMs, Ms 2, 1878, par. 3

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:21-27.

3LtMs, Ms 2, 1878, par. 7

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them.” [Verse 24.] Then there is such a thing as hearing without its doing those that hear any good. And why? Because they are hearers of the Word and not doers of the [Word]. But He represents the hearer and doer of the Word by that man who is building his house upon a rock. The storm may come, the tempest may beat upon that house, and it falls not because it is built upon a rock.

3LtMs, Ms 2, 1878, par. 9

Pointing to those who are erecting their buildings here, Christ says, “Every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man.” The structure was apparently faultless and very attractive, the location to all appearances right; but here, says Christ, he shall be likened to a “foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew”—passing right along giving His lessons—“and beat upon that house”—and here is the debris—“and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 26, 27.]

3LtMs, Ms 2, 1878, par. 10

Thus those who hear and do not accept the truths which are spoken to men—the truth of God which had been brought to them by the prophets, which had been preached to them by the apostles, which Christ had been presenting to them in His teachings—are represented by the man “which built his house upon the sands; and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 26, 27.] Why? It was built upon sliding sand. This is just the same thing which is represented here. “Not everyone that sayeth unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.” [Verse 21.] How much, I ask you, is profession worth without representing Jesus Christ in the life and in the character?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 360, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 360, 1905, par. 9

“Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:21-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 157, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 157, 1907, par. 14

“Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, that built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:21-25. Verses 26-29, Matthew 5. Let all study these words in this chapter for their individual benefit. Verses 12-20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 162, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 162, 1909, par. 3

“Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? Then will I profess unto you, I never knew you.” [Matthew 7:21-23.] Matthew 7:24-29.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 29—“To Meet the Bridegroom”

COL 412.3

At the final day, many will claim admission to Christ’s kingdom, saying, “We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” But the answer is, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” Luke 13:26; Matthew 7:22; Luke 13:27. In this life they have not entered into fellowship with Christ; therefore they know not the language of heaven, they are strangers to its joy. “What man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:11.

This Day With God

Heaven Begins Here, February 18

TDG 57.6

Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious, and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, and their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets” (Luke 13:26). “Have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? (Matthew 7:22).—Letter 91, February 18, 1904, to W. C. White.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 147, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 147, 1903, par. 11

Christ tells us how in the last great day ministers, elders, evangelists, physicians, teachers will confront Him with their claims. They plead how they have led the singers in their songs of praise, how they have waved the palm branches, how they have spoken of Him before thousands. “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name,” they say, “and in Thy name done many wonderful works of healing?” [Matthew 7:22.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 121, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 121, 1903, par. 9

Christ tells us how in the last great day ministers, elders, evangelists, physicians, teachers will confront Him with their claims. They will plead how they have led the singers in their songs of praise, how they have waved the palm branches, how they have spoken of Him before thousands. “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name,” they say, “and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” [Matthew 7:22.]

18LtMs, Ms 121, 1903, par. 10

But Christ says, “‘Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.’ [Verse 23.] O that you had known, even in the day of your visitation, when like sweetest music mercy’s voice fell upon your ears, the things that belonged unto your peace! But you were not ready. If you had been faithful to the warnings of the Word; if you had dismissed Satan instead of linking your arm in his; if you had preserved untarnished the principles of right; if you had obeyed My commandments, broken with ungodly advisers, scorned their impious bribes, which tempted you to worldly honor; if you had lifted the cross, and followed Jesus in self-denial, I could have welcomed you into My presence. But you have not cared for My society, and now you have no power to go from the snare.

Faith and Works

Chapter 7—How to Tell if God is Leading

FW 55.3

The voice of God is speaking to us through His Word, and there are many voices that we will hear; but Christ has said we should beware of them who will say, “Here is Christ, or there is Christ.” Then how shall we know that they have not the truth unless we bring everything to the Scriptures? Christ has warned us to beware of false prophets who will come to us in His name, saying that they are Christ. Now, if you should take the position that it is not important for you to understand the Scriptures for yourselves, you will be in danger of being led away with these doctrines. Christ has said that there will be a company who in the day of retributive judgment will say, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” But Christ will say, “Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:22, 23).

Maranatha

God’s People Brought to the Test, July 20

Mar 209.1

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:22, 23.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Laying a Firm Foundation, April 29

YRP 128.3

Now, if you should take the position that it is not important for you to understand the Scriptures for yourselves, you will be in danger of being led away with these doctrines. Christ has said that there will be a company who in the day of retributive judgment will say, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” But Christ will say, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:22, 23)....

Ye Shall Receive Power

Not All Healing Comes From the Spirit, July 12

YRP 202.1

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matthew 7:22, 23.

The Review and Herald

December 29, 1896

RH December 29, 1896, par. 10

Many know so little about their Bibles that they are unsettled in the faith. They remove the old landmarks, and fallacies and winds of doctrine blow them hither and thither. Science, falsely so-called, is wearing away the foundation of Christian principle; and those who once were in the faith drift away from the Bible landmarks, and divorce themselves from God, while still claiming to be his children. But are they?—No; no. The relation they sustain to God is truly represented in Matthew 7:22, 23: “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Hearing and Doing Sermon at Santa Rosa, California Sabbath, March 7, 1885 Text: Matthew 7:22-28

Hearing and Doing Sermon at Santa Rosa, California Sabbath, March 7, 1885 Text: Matthew 7:22-28

1SAT 13.3

God demands of us that we build a character that will stand that close test of the judgment. We will not have His protection in the time when the flood comes, if at that time it is found that we have wasted the hours of probation granted us now to build characters for eternity. For the character which we now build is not only for time, but for eternity. Those that are set forth in this parable as building on the sand are they that feel that they are all right. They come right up before the Lord and say, I have done this, I have done that. “Many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” But this goes for nothing to the Lord. “Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (See Matthew 7:22, 23)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 5, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 1

Text: Matthew 7:22-28

4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 4

God demands of us that we build a character that will stand the close test of the judgment. We will not have His protection in the time when the flood comes if at that time it is found that we have wasted the hours of probation granted us now to build characters for eternity. For the character which we now build is not only for time, but for eternity. Those that are set forth in this parable as building on the sand are they that feel that they are all right. They come right up before the Lord and say, I have done this, I have done that. “Many will say unto Me in that day, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name, and in Thy name cast out devils, and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” But this goes for nothing to the Lord. “Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you, depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity.” [Matthew 7:22, 23.] What is iniquity? Sin. And what is sin? Sin, says the beloved John, is the transgression of the law. [1 John 3:4.] Here is a class that are transgressing the law of God, and at the same time they come to Him, boasting of what they have done, expecting His favor. And it is this class that is here represented as building on the sand. They have erected a standard of their own. What is a perfect standard of character? The only standard ever given to man is the law of God, His holy commandments. If we have been building upon this rock, it will stand the test. If we have been erecting a standard of our own, and claim by that standard that we are perfect and that we have reached perfect righteousness and holiness, we shall know in the day of God. No one will claim that he is perfect and holy, if he trembles before the exalted standard of God. Is it safe to do this, and cast aside the immutable [law] of God, and then to claim to be holy?

4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 9

Now suppose that someone shall say, Jesus has pardoned me, and I have no need of the law any further. I will no longer live in obedience to the law; the question may be asked, “Shall we continue to sin, that grace may abound?” [Romans 6:1.] No. If one should steal the money out of my purse, and then come and, confessing the crime, shall ask me to forgive him, and I shall pardon him, and then he goes and does the same thing again, does not this show that there is no change in his life? So it is with those who have asked God to forgive them and then gone right on transgressing His law. They say, “Lord, Lord,” but He says, “Depart from Me.” [Matthew 7:22, 23.] While I freely pardoned you, you were doing the same thing again. And your very course was leading others in the way of the transgressor. And for this reason they were called the workers of iniquity. This very course of action was the means of leading others astray.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 19a, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 19a, 1892, par. 14

Elder Olsen, our only hope for our churches is to pray in faith that the Lord will present before them their own spiritual condition in its true character: defiled in thought, defiled in action, impure, sensual, devilish. Can such enter heaven as they now are? Never! “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:22, 23.] Then follow the words from the lips of the Redeemer, Matthew 7:25-29.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Faithfulness in Reproving Sin

GW92 83.3

Eli should have first attempted to restrain evil by mild measures; but if that would not avail, he should have subdued the wrong by the sternest measures. God’s honor must be sacredly preserved, even if it separates us from the nearest relative. One defect in a man otherwise talented may destroy his usefulness in this life, and cause him to hear in the day of God the unwelcome words, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 52, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 51

This day will be invested with awful solemnity, such as has never [been] beheld before. When the man entrusted with large talents has misled others by his self-serving, blinded the minds of his associates to do after his manner, and the purposes and will of God are turned aside by the hearer of the Word who did not consider that it was important for him [to] imitate the example of Christ, and he was not a doer of the Word, the solemnity of the scene becomes inexpressibly solemn while the aggravation of his actions and their result on human minds is laid open the lax morality, the spiritual deadness, the unfeeling, unkind words, the bruising of the human soul, with all its train of influence on heart and characters of others, shows the magnitude of the guilt the universe of heaven, the congregated world looks on with bated breath and intense interest and the solemn voice of the Judge pronounces sentence, “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” [Matthew 7:23.] Every man will see, every man will know that this is altogether a just sentence for those who will be saints in heaven must first be saints below.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 14, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 14, 1895, par. 16

O, how many will hear the words, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:23.] May the Lord help us while we are learners here below to be diligent. Truth of the highest value is unfolding. Falsehoods present themselves on every hand, but truth is distinct, pure in its operation. Christ has placed every human being under the guidance of the Holy Spirit that will surely lead us into all truth if we will submit to be led. The Holy Spirit takes the things of God and conveys them as living principles into every obedient heart, and we receive His impress, which is the likeness of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 144, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 144, 1898, par. 10

Those who have oil in their vessels with their lamps will let their light so shine before men that they may see their good works and glorify their Father which is in heaven. Unconverted men who profess to be Christians and do not shine in good works, only encourage the sinner to continue in his sin; and Christ says to them, “I know you not, depart from me ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 25:12; 7:23.] The only safety for any soul is in living in constant communion with God. This is represented by Zechariah in the symbol of the two anointed ones that stand by the Lord of the whole earth. That which is good in our world should be stronger for our words and our presence, and the evil should be made to appear as it is. There is no virtue in calling good evil, and evil good. Every one should feel that there should flow forth from him an influence for life, courage, hopefulness, and true healing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 39, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 39, 1898, par. 25

Too well do the unprepared inhabitants of earth know what to expect. Satan cannot pay a ransom for their souls, and poor deluded, professed Christians, who have been content to let the ministers do their searching of the Scriptures, see that they will receive as their works have been. Those, too, who have wrested the Scriptures and taught for doctrine the commandments of men, see that they must answer for the souls of those whom they have led into error and apostasy. A wail of despair and agony reaches heavenward, but it is echoed back to earth. Louder, far louder than any human cry, is the last trumpet’s sound, and far above all is heard the voice of Omnipotence: “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 131, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 131, 1900, par. 21

What a scene that will be! No pen can describe it! The aggravated guilt of the world will be laid bare, and the voice of the eternal Judge will be heard saying, “Depart from me; I never knew you.” [Matthew 7:23.] The judgment will be conducted in accordance with the rules given in order that man might have eternal life. The law of God, which men are now called upon to obey and to make their rule of life, but which many refused to accept, is the law by which they will be judged. We are judged by our works. Obedience or disobedience means everything to us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 232, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 232, 1903, par. 53

Those who do not receive in faith God’s plan for redeeming the race do despite to the Spirit of grace, and at the last great day their sentence will be, “Depart from Me.” [Matthew 7:23.] They have hated righteousness and fostered iniquity, and they must be banished forever from the presence of God, exiled from happiness to death—eternal death.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 19, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 19, 1905, par. 6

Young men, be sure to bring the strictest fidelity into all that you do. “Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord, and walketh in His ways.” [Psalm 128:1.] Remember that every word you speak, every deed you do is passing sentence for or against you. Those who suppose that by deception they can obtain advantages for themselves are incurring fearful loss. Unless this sin is repented of and pardoned, they can never enter heaven. The Lord will declare to them, “I know you not.” [Matthew 25:12.] They may urge the good things they have done, but Christ says, “Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” [Matthew 7:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 77, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 77, 1906, par. 14

The reign of appearance and pretense is over. The voice of the righteous Judge speaks with awful emphasis, as He utters the sentence, “Depart from Me; I never knew you.” [Matthew 7:23.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1575—A Description of Christ’s Return and the Final Judgment; An Appeal for Faithful Stewardship and Witnessing

21MR 350.5

What a scene that will be! No pen can describe it! The aggravated guilt of the world will be laid bare and the voice of the eternal Judge will be heard saying, “Depart from Me; I never knew you.” [See Matthew 7:23]. The judgment will be conducted in accordance with the rules given in order that man might have eternal life. The law of God, which men are now called upon to obey and to make their rule of life, but which many refuse to accept, is the law by which they will be judged. We are judged by our works. Obedience or disobedience means everything to us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 83, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, par. 19

There is a world to be saved, but it is represented to me that little is being done by those who claim to be the servants of God to win souls for eternal life. Did the Son of God spare Himself, and leave you to ruin? No; He gave up the glory that He had with the Father and gave His life that He might impart life to all. Let us consider Him as He bows in His last prayer to the Father for His disciples, pleading that they might be given grace to walk in His footsteps and continue the work He had begun. We have an eternity of blessings to win or to lose. It rests with us whether we shall hear the words spoken to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” or, “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” [Matthew 25:23; 7:23.]

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 39—The Trial at Caesarea

AA 423.1

The apostle realized that the gospel had a claim upon whoever might listen to his words; that one day they would stand either among the pure and holy around the great white throne, or with those to whom Christ would say, “Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:23. He knew that he must meet every one of his hearers before the tribunal of heaven and must there render an account, not only for all that he had said and done, but for the motive and spirit of his words and deeds.

The Upward Look

Self Must Die, September 12

UL 269.6

In the day of final award two classes will stand before the Judge of all the earth. To those who have failed to walk in the footsteps of Christ the words will be spoken, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:23). Those who have brought the pure, unadulterated truths of the Word of God into the practical life will hear the benediction, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (chap. 25:21). We can never enter the City of God until we have learned to die to self, and there dwells within the soul the spirit of Christ.—Manuscript 69, September 12, 1909, “The Helpers in Our Sanitariums.”

This Day With God

Reward for Faithfulness, July 28

TDG 218.5

Christ has appointed to every man his work. The second death will be the portion of those who labor not, and the dreadful words will be heard, “Depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:23). But the faithful servants will not lose their reward. They will gain eternal life, and the “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Chap. 25:23), will fall as sweetest music on their ears.—The Signs of the Times, July 28, 1887.

This Day With God

Lip Service Religion, October 17

TDG 299.3

Some who claim to love Jesus are deceivers and all their religion is lip service. It does not transform the character. It does not reveal the inward working of grace. They do not show that they have ever learned in Christ’s school the lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. They do not show by life or character that they are wearing Christ’s yoke or lifting Christ’s burdens. They are not reaching the standard given them in God’s Word, but a human standard. Their life is not pure like Christ’s life. They are not being refined and ennobled by His Spirit. The way of truth they have not known, and they are of that number who will say, “Lord, Lord, open unto us. We have taught in the streets. We have done many wonderful works.” But Christ will say of them, “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:23).—Ibid.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 39—Paul’s Trial at Caesarea

TT 221.5

Paul knew that he stood in the presence of one who had power to put him to death or to set him free; yet he did not address Felix and Drusilla with flattery. Forgetting all selfish considerations, he sought to arouse them to a sense of their peril. The apostle realized that one day they would stand either among the holy around the great white throne, or with those to whom Christ would say, “Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” Matthew 7:23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 15, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 15, 1885, par. 7

The world’s Redeemer is speaking to us; let us hear what He says: “Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Revelation 22:14. Then those who see the claims of God in His Word and do not obey, but excuse their negligence or wilful disregard of God’s requirements, testify by their course of action that they are not embraced in the blessed promise on condition of obedience. They are not the ones who will have a right to the tree of life, but are with the wilful transgressors of the law of God to whom Jesus says, “Depart, ye workers of iniquity.” [Matthew 7:23.] Sin is the transgression of the law, and no sinner shall enter the portals of bliss. No sinner will have a right to the tree of life and enter into the gates of the city.

To Be Like Jesus

Worship Faithfully Every Morning and Evening, November 5

BLJ 326.1

Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock. Matthew 7:24, NKJV.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Building Upon the Rock, April 30

YRP 129.1

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. Matthew 7:24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 29, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 29, 1885, par. 20

We have another clear day today. I spoke to the few assembled together on the Sabbath from Matthew, “Whoso heareth My words and doeth them.” [Matthew 7:24.] I had liberty to present the subject before the people in clearness and power. The Baptist minister was present and a telegraph operator. I felt as anxious to declare the counsel of God to these few as to the many. The Baptist minister took notes while I was talking.

Lift Him Up

Putting the Word of God Into Practice, June 30

LHU 195.1

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock ... and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. Matthew 7:24, 25.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]

MR No. 318—The Christian Pathway

5MR 257.1

Here Christ has said, “My sheep hear My voice, ... and they follow Me.” We have the fact presented that no one could pluck them out of His hand. “Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock.” [Matthew 7:24, 25.]

Our High Calling

Building for Eternity, March 19

OHC 84.1

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. Matthew 7:24, 25.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 38, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 38, 1886, par. 2

Here Christ has said, “My sheep hear My voice, ... and they follow Me.” [Verse 27.] We have the fact presented that no one could pluck them out of His hand. “Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:24, 25.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 20, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 20, 1895, par. 4

All may obtain this education if they will. Jesus says, “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word, ... And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.” [Verses 6, 10.] What a statement is this! “I am glorified in them.” This can be true of any soul only as he in sincerity becomes not merely a hearer but a doer of the Word of Christ. In Matthew these are likened to a wise man, “which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” [Matthew 7:24, 25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 30, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 30, 1903, par. 2

Let these words of Holy Writ be your consolation: “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock.” [Matthew 7:24, 25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 308, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 308, 1903, par. 15

Christ turns to His humble ones and with deep compassion and love repeats, “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them I will liken him to a wise man who built his house upon a rock and the floods came and the storm beat upon the house and it fell not because it was founded upon the rock.” [Matthew 7:24, 25.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Character Building

CT 61.1

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine,” Christ said, “and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:24-27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 15, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 15, 1894, par. 6

When God sent Moses to Pharaoh, he had light, but Pharaoh resisted and every resistance brought up a heavier stubbornness. Did God put a power upon him that he could not turn to the light? No, it was indifference to evidence. The stubbornness of Pharaoh was because light was shining that he would not receive. Day after day was the mighty hand of power revealed, but “Who is the Lord that I should serve Him?” “Who is He that I should know Him?” [Exodus 5:2.] He is the I AM. Who is the I AM? Jesus Christ, who was in the pillar of cloud. The very I AM is speaking to you. He says that if you hear His words and do them not, your house is built upon the sands; but if you are hearers and doers, your house is riveted upon the eternal Rock, and as well might all heaven be swept away as that one soul perish. [Matthew 7:24-27.] He does not want you to perish. He is giving you light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 160, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 8

Thus God deals with men and angels. “Wherefore,” He says, “whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the winds blew, and the floods came, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, I will liken him unto a foolish man, that built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 160a, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 9

It is thus that God deals with men and with angels. “Wherefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the winds blew, the floods came, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, I will liken him unto a foolish man, that built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 74, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 74, 1899, par. 6

There are two classes brought to view in the Word of God—the wise and the foolish. “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine,” Christ said, “and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 145, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 145, 1899, par. 23

How will those men and women meet God in peace who read appeals for help in fields where the truth has never been presented, and yet close the door of the heart, making no special effort to lift the standard and proclaim the warning, “Prepare to meet thy God”? [Amos 4:12.] Ruin is soon to come upon all who refuse to obey God. The Minister of our salvation declares, “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 91, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 91, 1900, par. 25

People are to be converted from error to truth. These are to show by their works that they are true followers of Jesus Christ. They are to co-operate with God. “Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew; and beat upon that house; and it fell and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 106, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 106, 1902, par. 28

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine,” Christ declared, “and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew; and beat upon that house, and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 108, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 108, 1905, par. 27

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:24-27.]

Special Testimonies On Education

Chapter 12—Character Building

SpTEd 72.2

“Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:24-27.

Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1

The Self-Deceived

1NL 10.6

There is no discussion; the time for that is past. The irrevocable sentence has been pronounced. They are shut out from heaven by their own unfitness for its companionship. (Read Matthew 7:24-27.)—Letter 91, 1904.

The Signs of the Times

August 27, 1885

ST August 27, 1885, par. 2

We reached Worcester, Mass., about half past eight, Friday evening, July 31, and went directly to the mission rooms. In the evening we had a New England thunder-storm; but it cleared away before meeting time, and at the appointed hour the tent was filled with interested listeners. I spoke from the words of the Saviour found in Matthew 7:24-27. The bitterest opposition and prejudice had been created against me here, and some who were the most prejudiced were out to hear me. The Lord enabled me to present the truth with such power that the people listened as if spell-bound, and many were deeply impressed. One, an infidel, took his stand for the Sabbath, and others expressed their intention never again to disregard God’s holy day.

The Signs of the Times

October 29, 1885

ST October 29, 1885, par. 1

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” Matthew 7:24-27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 16a, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 16a, 1885, par. 26

Here I met Brother and Sister Canright and Brother and Sister Webber who are holding tent meetings here. They meet with the fiercest opposition from the First-day Adventists. They have quite a number of workers here who go from house to house giving Bible readings, canvassing, etc. I spoke to a tent well filled in the evening upon Matthew 7:24-27. The Lord gave me strength and His grace to speak to the people. One who had been an infidel was all broken down and said he would keep the Sabbath. We had a shower, with thunder and lightning, but it cleared away about the time of meeting and there was a congregation of interested hearers. Many collected about the tent outside, nearly as many as were in the tent.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]

Talk to the Teachers

9MR 68.2

Just as soon as you begin to think you are big men, and that you are so large that you can comprehend and pick out all that is precious in infidel authors, and leave out all that is vile, then you are wise above that which is written. You cannot do this. The devil is right by your side, and the evil angels are there. The devil is a great deal smarter than you are, and you cannot see what he is driving at. He will so cunningly interweave his sentiments with the thoughts of these writers, so that it will be impossible to distinguish the error which they contain. He regards this circumstance as his opportunity. These very things may insinuate themselves into your mind and character, and God pronounces you a fool. That is just how it is. If you want to be counted a fool in God’s sight, it is very easy for you to do it, but if you want to be counted a wise man in God’s eyes, come right to the cross of Calvary, and get the inspiration that comes from it, and your name will be written as a wise man who built his house upon the rock, and the storms came and “the winds blew,and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock” (Matthew 7:25).

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“It fell not; for it was founded upon the rock.”—Matthew 7:25, R. V.

“It fell not; for it was founded upon the rock.”—Matthew 7:25, R. V.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 32, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 32, 1895, par. 8

“Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] He came to take away our sins. He came to give us His righteousness and make us complete in Him. We cannot, any one of us, aside from Christ improve ourselves, or be a blessing to others, only through the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour. We each have our cross to bear; but let us bear it after Jesus, feeling highly honored to follow Him, and sing as we go, “Jesus, I my cross have taken, all to leave and follow Thee.” Follow where Jesus leads the way. “The rains may descend, and the floods may come, and the winds may blow, and may beat upon that house; but the house will not fall, for it is founded upon the rock.” [See Matthew 7:25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 102, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 102, 1901, par. 8

In these words Christ hath given a reason for the condition of the churches. Those who have not root in themselves, who do not constantly follow true Christian principles, whose natural and cultivated tendencies to wrong have not been changed by the grace of God, continually lose the interest which they once felt in the truth. They return to their sinful practices. They may continue to make a profession of Christianity, but they do not honor the truth of God. They do not go on from grace to grace. For a time they are neither cold nor hot, but they finally become hardened to all good impressions. They grow careless, worldly, inattentive. They hear the truth, but do not receive it. Of this class Christ says, “Every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:26, 27.]

Lift Him Up

Christ’s Teaching Embraced the World, June 12

LHU 177.1

When Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching. Matthew 7:28, NIV.

LHU 177.4

The people “were astonished at his teaching” (Matthew 7:28, ASV); “for his word was with power” (Luke 4:32). Never before spoke one who had such power to awaken thought, to kindle aspiration, to arouse every capability of body, mind, and soul.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

First Great Teacher, April 2

JNN 102.1

And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching.—Matthew 7:28

Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]

MR No. 1154—Value of the Soul; Importance of the Will; Christ’s Intercession in the Heavenly Sanctuary

15MR 98.3

Here is presented definitely that man is dependent upon God for every breath he draws. The beating heart, the throbbing pulse, every nerve and muscle in the living organism, are kept in order and activity by the power of an infinite God. “Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you” [Matthew 7:28-33].

Reflecting Christ

The Spirituality of the Law, February 22

RC 67.6

The words of Christ, though calmly spoken, were uttered with an earnestness and power that stirred the hearts of the people.... They “were astonished at his teaching: for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes” (Matthew 7:28, 29, R.V.). The Pharisees noted the vast difference between their manner of instruction and that of Christ. They saw that the majesty and purity and beauty of the truth, with its deep and gentle influence, was taking firm hold upon many minds. The Saviour’s divine love and tenderness drew the hearts of men to Him....

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Christ’s Greeting to the World

7T 269.6

“And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine: for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Matthew 7:28, 29.

That I May Know Him

Greatest Educator of All Time, July 2

TMK 189.1

The people were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 7:28, 29.

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 16—Power, Authority, and Earnestness

VSS 93.3

They “were astonished at His teaching: for He taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.” Matthew 7:28, 29, R.V.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 46, 47.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 96, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 96, 1902, par. 14

“And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine; for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” [Matthew 7:28, 29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 139, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 139, 1906, par. 5

Matthew 7:28, 29.

Lift Him Up

Jesus’ Teaching—Simple, but With Authority, June 7

LHU 172.1

He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 7:29.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 26—At Capernaum

DA 253.3

All who heard the Saviour “were astonished at His doctrine: for His word was with power.” “He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Luke 4:32; Matthew 7:29. The teaching of the scribes and elders was cold and formal, like a lesson learned by rote. To them the word of God possessed no vital power. Their own ideas and traditions were substituted for its teaching. In the accustomed round of service they professed to explain the law, but no inspiration from God stirred their own hearts or the hearts of their hearers.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”—Matthew 5:17.

MB 46.4

The words of Christ, though calmly spoken, were uttered with an earnestness and power that stirred the hearts of the people. They listened for a repetition of the lifeless traditions and exactions of the rabbis, but in vain. They “were astonished at His teaching: for He taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.” Matthew 7:29, R.V. The Pharisees noted the vast difference between their manner of instruction and that of Christ. They saw that the majesty and purity and beauty of the truth, with its deep and gentle influence, was taking firm hold upon many minds. The Saviour’s divine love and tenderness drew the hearts of men to Him. The rabbis saw that by His teaching the whole tenor of the instruction they had given to the people was set at nought. He was tearing down the partition wall that had been so flattering to their pride and exclusiveness; and they feared that, if permitted, He would draw the people entirely away from them. Therefore they followed Him with determined hostility, hoping to find some occasion for bringing Him into disfavor with the multitudes and thus enabling the Sanhedrin to secure His condemnation and death.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 26—Busy and Happy Days at Capernaum

HLv 161.4

All who heard the Saviour “were astonished at His doctrine: for His word was with power.” “He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Luke 4:32; Matthew 7:29. The teaching of the scribes and elders was cold and formal. They professed to explain the law, but no inspiration from God stirred their own hearts or the hearts of their hearers.

From the Heart

The Word in Human Form, January 26

FH 38.1

He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Matthew 7:29.

Homeward Bound

Law of Love, June 7

HB 180.5

The words of Christ, though calmly spoken, were uttered with an earnestness and power that stirred the hearts of the people. They listened for a repetition of the lifeless traditions and exactions of the rabbis, but in vain. They “were astonished at His teaching: for He taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.” (Matthew 7:29, R.V.) The Pharisees noted the vast difference between their manner of instruction and that of Christ. They saw that the majesty and purity and beauty of the truth, with its deep and gentle influence, was taking firm hold upon many minds.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 45-47.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 172, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 172, 1897, par. 29

The lessons of Christ are to be taught in a very simple manner. Bible history is to be made an interesting study. Under the influence of the Holy Spirit, the teachings of the apostles after the ascension of Christ was with power. They taught as did Christ, “as one having authority.” [Matthew 7:29.] They were the means of imparting light and truth and the way of salvation through Jesus Christ. But the Word was less and less studied with deep interest, prayerfully. Then it was listened to less. It was casually perused. It was not fed upon as Bread from heaven to sustain spiritual life, and to keep the soul in health. The teachings of theologians, the ordinances of bishops, the decrees of councils, was the main interest. The Word of the only true and living God lost influence in public opinion. The word of finite man was regarded with far greater reverence than a “Thus saith the Lord,” or “It is written.”