EGW WritingsMatthew 9

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 90, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 90, 1894, par. 8

In enticing men to educate themselves in the liquor habit, the rumseller is effectually taking away the righteousness of the soul, and leading men to become the abject slaves of Satan. The Lord Jesus, the Prince of Life, is in controversy with Satan, the prince of darkness. Christ declares that His mission is to lift men up. He says, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] He healed the sick, and cleansed the leper, and cast out demons, “And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.” [Luke 6:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 33, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 33, 1895, par. 7

Let your prayers ascend to our heavenly Father, and let this fifty-first Psalm be assurance and comfort to you. Do not keep yourself away from Jesus, for He loves you. You may say, “He will not hear my prayers; I am a sinner; I neglected my duty.” God has not given any message of reproof because you neglected your duty, but Christ says, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] We are all sinners liable to err, and Christ is our only hope. Then you are not to wait, but to come now and believe that He will receive you just now.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1213—Each Follower of Christ is Called to Work; All are to Copy Christ, the Pattern; Harmony to Prevail

16MR 193.1

I wish to say that no human language could be framed to give a just conception of the fullness of the love of God, even the Infinite God, [who] suffered in His Son; and nothing He could express in His words or actions in doing and suffering could possibly exaggerate the conception of the grace of that great love of God wherewith He hath loved us. Now, what is required of every child of God? To search diligently “and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice” [Matthew 9:13]. Will all [respond] individually who claim to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour—all who truly believe Christ has developed the same in His individual members of His body, to multiply the similitude of His character in them?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 65, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 65, 1895, par. 30

The same spirit that led to the course of action which was pursued toward me, has lived, and has been revealed toward others. We know that God is not pleased with your taking so great liberties to bring individuals to the terms you have decided upon in your councils. God is not working with the men who are laying their plans to gain control of everything. The Lord would have His institutions in different parts of the world stand in union with other institutions, but one is not to swallow up the others. Each is to maintain its own individuality, and the workers are to receive help from the institutions that have the largest revenue. The men who conduct matters in Battle Creek have much to learn on this point. God says, “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 9, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, par. 5

In His teaching Christ sought to educate and train the Jews to see the object of that which was to be abolished by the true offering of Himself, the living sacrifice. “Go,” said He, “and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] He presented a pure character as of supreme importance. He dispensed with all pomp, demanding that faith that works by love and purifies the soul as the only qualification required for the kingdom of heaven. He taught that true religion does not consist in forms or ceremonies, outward attractions or outward display. Christ would have taken these to Himself if they had been essential in the formation of a character after the divine similitude. But His citizenship, His divine authority rested upon His own intrinsic merits. He, the Majesty of heaven, walked the earth shrouded in the robe of humanity. All His attractions and triumphs were to be revealed in behalf of man, and were to testify to His living connection with God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 139, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 139, 1897, par. 11

These are weighty principles. We must work upon them. We must draw together, cherishing love, and ceasing to criticize one another. The Lord help us to understand what this means, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 14, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 14, 1897, par. 7

But the peculiarity separating the Jews from other nations disappeared in Christ. He placed himself where He could give instruction to all classes of people. Often He told them that He was related to the whole human family, Jew and Gentile. “I am not come to call the (self) righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] He came to seek and to save that which was lost. For this He left the ninety and nine, for this He laid off His royal robes, and veiled His divinity with humanity. The whole world is Christ’s field of labor. A sphere narrower than this does not enter His thoughts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 14, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 14, 1898, par. 13

Said Christ, I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance—those who realize that they are needy, who are hungering and thirsting for salvation. [Matthew 9:13.] These will not be like the heath in the desert, not to know when good cometh. Our time is altogether too precious to consume in this way. Opportunity is golden. We are to hunt and fish for souls.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 168, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 168, 1899, par. 5

Rather than be idle, Brother Hickox labored with his hands to settle a rent bill. His painting the house or fence for Sister Teasdale was a matter to be commended, not condemned. For his work Sister Teasdale allowed him a certain sum on the rent of the house. What offense was there in this? I answer, None. And if any of the brethren are tempted over the matter, tell them that God says, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 130, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 16

I wish to say that no human language could be framed to give a just conception of the fulness of the love of God, even the Infinite God, suffered in His Son; and nothing He could express in His words or actions, in doing and suffering, could possibly exaggerate the conception of the grace of that great love of God wherewith He hath loved us. Now what is required of every child of God? To search diligently and learn what this meaneth, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] Will all individually who claim to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour—that Christ embodied the love of the Father—[will] all who truly believe Christ has developed the same in [the] individual members of His body, [seeking] to multiply the similitude of His character in them, [live their] lives in connection one with another?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 154, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 154, 1901, par. 6

It may be possible that the best thing to do is to purchase both land and hall. But if this cannot be done, do the next best thing. Go to New York and look over the work. In this neglected city, steeped in sin and crime, there are many who will listen to the last message of mercy. Said Christ, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 202, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 202, 1901, par. 11

Without the Word of God, we should never have known what this means: “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] Mercy is kind, pitiful. Mercy and the love of God purify the soul, and beautify the heart, cleansing the life from selfishness. Let us seek for the faith that works by love and purifies the soul, bringing a glory into the life-service. Mercy is that love which is divine, and is shown by those, who, identified with God, serve Him by reflecting bright rays of light upon the pathway of human beings.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]

Two Standards

3MR 109.1

Now the question for us to decide is, Shall we have connection with Christ and the Father? Shall we accept the help needed? Shall we enter the blood-stained path that our Saviour trod? Heaven has been opened before us. Christ has been accepted by the Father, and if we will comply we can be accepted also. The plan of salvation has been laid for the human race and they need not be discouraged. Help has been laid on one that is mighty to save. The gates of heaven are ajar to the children of men, to the weakest ones, the ones that need a Saviour the most. When our Saviour ate with the publicans the Pharisees complained and would make capital of this. Christ’s reply was, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Matthew 9:13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 127, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, par. 9

I reply, Were I at liberty to express my mind in regard to many of the fine houses in our cities, I could tell you much that would astonish you. And most revolting disclosures could be made regarding some who attend our meetings. But we do not say to our ministers, “Why do you spend your time on such a wicked audience?” What said Christ when accused of eating with publicans and sinners? “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 51, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 51, 1901, par. 3

There will always be duties which have to be performed on the Sabbath for the relief of suffering humanity. This is right and in accordance with the law of Him who says, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] But there is danger of falling into carelessness on this point and of doing that which it is not positively essential to do on the Sabbath. Unnecessary travelling is done on the Sabbath, with many other things which might be left undone. “Take heed,” saith the Lord, “to all thy ways, lest I remove My Holy Spirit because of the lax regard given to My precepts.” “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.” [Exodus 20:8.] Bear in mind the charge to remember. Do not carelessly forget. “Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.” [Verse 9.] In this time all the duties necessary to prepare for the Sabbath are to be done. Shoes should be cleaned and all such work finished before the Sabbath comes. “The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day, wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” [Verses 10, 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 58, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 58, 1902, par. 10

Christ came to the world to seek and save the lost. When accused by the Pharisees of eating with publicans and sinners, He replied, “I am not come to call the [professedly] righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] He came to save, not to destroy. Souls are very precious in His sight; for by creation and by redemption they are His. Do not you realize that He holds you responsible for the salvation of those with whom you are dealing? Do your realize that He will require at your hands the souls you have not tried to save? Have you sought to outwit the enemy, who is constantly trying to lead the youth to think that the course of unbelievers is more nearly correct than the course of those who claim to believe the truth?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 57, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 57, 1902, par. 11

When the Pharisees asked the disciples why their Master ate with publicans and sinners, Christ, overhearing the question, turned to His accusers, and, in the dignity of His mission, said: “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] In His life He has given us a representation of what a repentant sinner may become. He was pure and undefiled. From His lips escaped no word that could leave a stain upon His character. All through the Scriptures He has given us assurances of what we may become.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 131, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 131, 1902, par. 13

Two weeks ago a Sabbath-school Convention, made up of the members of the St. Helena and Calistoga churches, was held at Hitchcock’s Canyon, a grove about four miles from here, on the Healdsburg Road. There were about one hundred and fifty in attendance. They spent the whole day there, taking their lunch with them. The meetings in the morning were made very interesting. I spoke in the afternoon. On Sunday afternoon, the day following, an open-air meeting was held at the same place, and the Lord gave me freedom in speaking to the people. There were about sixty present, among them a number of outsiders from different places. My voice was strong, and the Lord gave me freedom in speaking. As I speak at such meetings as these, I think of the words of Christ, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 117, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 117, 1903, par. 23

True sympathy between man and his fellow man is to be the sign distinguishing those who love and fear God from those who are unmindful of His law. How great the sympathy that Christ expressed in coming to this world to give His life a sacrifice for a dying world. His religion led to the doing of genuine medical missionary work. He was a healing power. “I will have mercy and not sacrifice,” He said. [Matthew 9:13.] This is the test that the great Author of truth used to distinguish between true religion and false.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 142, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 85

Rather than be idle, Brother Hickox labored with his hands to settle a rent bill. His painting the house or fence for Sister Teasdale was a matter to be commended, not condemned. For his work Sister Teasdale allowed him a certain sum on the rent of the house. What offense was there in this? I answer, None. And if any of the brethren are tempted over this matter, tell them that God says, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 45, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 45, 1903, par. 4

Seek the Lord in prayer, asking Him to show you the best way in which to reach the people with whom you come in contact. Remember the words of the Saviour, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] Remember that different methods must be followed in dealing with different people. To some you can give a tract. To others, you can put the question, “Do you love the Lord Jesus?” In the meetings that are held, talk in a way that will interest them. Deal with the subject on which you are speaking in so simple and practical a way that they cannot fail to understand. There are many so ignorant of the terms used by those who speak on spiritual subjects that they do not understand what they hear. Many who hear have so little interest in spiritual things that much of the effort put forth to give them religious instruction is like beating the air.

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

MR No. 929—Words of Encouragement

12MR 34.3

You may say, I have sinned against God; but if you have, you are just the one who needs the Saviour, for Christ is our Sin-bearer. He says, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Matthew 9:13). When Satan tells you that the Lord has forgotten you and will not regard you with favor, tell him you know in whom you believe; say to him, “Get thee behind me, Satan. Jesus gave His own life for me. He suffered a most cruel death that He might save me from being overcome by your temptations. I believe in Jesus. I know my Saviour loves me, and I love my Jesus. I rest in His love, notwithstanding my imperfections. God has accepted His perfection in my behalf. He is my righteousness, and I trust in His merits. I am His repenting, believing child. He has taken away my sin-stained garments and covered me with the robe of His righteousness. Clothed in this garment I stand before the Father justified. I am of that number who are addressed as the ‘Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit.’” And what constitutes them the “elect?”—“Obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” Therefore, He adds, “Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied” (1 Peter 1:12).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 130, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 130, 1905, par. 44

True sympathy between man and his fellow man is to be the sign distinguishing those who love and fear God from those who are unmindful of His law. How great the sympathy that Christ expressed in coming to this world to give His life a sacrifice for a dying world. His religion led to the doing of genuine medical missionary work. He was a healing power. “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice,” He said. [Matthew 9:13.] This is the test that the great Author of truth used to distinguish between true religion and false.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 282, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 282, 1908, par. 2

I have thought much of how little burden is carried by those who know the truth for those who know it not. Christ declared that He came to this world to call, not the righteous, but sinners to repentance. [Matthew 9:13.] Those who know the truths of the Word of God are not to hide their light in obscurity, but as faithful missionaries are to give the warning message to unbelieving neighbors and friends. They are to work as Christ has given them example. All who have a knowledge of the testing truths for this time should ask themselves the question, Am I giving the time and labor to the work of saving souls that Christ requires of His followers?

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.]

The Upward Look

Take the Cup of Salvation, April 28

UL 132.4

Act your part in helping yourself, as all must do who would be blessed. Believe that Christ helps you. Refuse to speak a word of unbelief. When the enemy tells you that the Lord has forsaken you, tell him that you know He has not, for He declares, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Matthew 9:13)....

Ye Shall Receive Power

In Moments of Despair, May 4

YRP 133.2

Then come, and seek, and find. The reservoir of power is open, is full and free. Come with humble hearts, not thinking that you must do some good thing to merit the favor of God, or that you must make yourself better before you can come to Christ. You can never do anything to better your condition. In the name of Jesus, come with full assurance of faith, because you are a sinner; for Christ said, “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Matthew 9:13). Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. You are to ask, to seek, to knock, and to believe that you are accepted through Christ Jesus, trusting Him alone to do those things for you which you can never do for yourself....

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Christ and the Law (Sermon given at Rome, New York, June 19, 1889)

1SAT 108.1

And when the devil comes and points to your sins and hateful crimes, tell him, “Yes, I am a sinner, but Christ is a Saviour, and He says, ‘I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance’” [Matthew 9:13]. Thus you arm yourself with the whole armor of Christ’s righteousness. How is it you have not on the armor of Christ’s righteousness? What did He come to this world for? Why, if it had been a possible thing for us to have been brought back to keeping God’s commandments, He never would have come to this world; but He came here because it was impossible for man to redeem himself and bring himself into a position where Adam stood before the fall. Then what was he to do? Christ came, our substitute and surety.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

Eternal Life

1SAT 242.1

God has done so much for us in giving His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life. We are persons of hope. We may every one lay hold on the hope that is set before us. “He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also” (John 14:12), and He says, “I kept My Father’s commandments.” The Pharisees said when the disciples rubbed the ears of corn as they went through the wheat fields, “He has broken the Sabbath.” Could they have fastened that upon Him, then what? They would not have had to get false witnesses to speak against Him. They would have condemned Him as a Sabbath-breaker. But He said, “Ye do not know what this means, I will have mercy and not sacrifice” (See Matthew 9:13), or ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

My Life Today

Work for Prominent Men and Women, August 13

ML 229.1

While he spake ... unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples. Matthew 9:18, 19.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 36—The Touch of Faith

DA 342.1

Returning from Gergesa to the western shore, Jesus found a multitude gathered to receive Him, and they greeted Him with joy. He remained by the seaside for a time, teaching and healing, and then repaired to the house of Levi-Matthew to meet the publicans at the feast. Here Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, found Him.

DA 342.2

This elder of the Jews came to Jesus in great distress, and cast himself at His feet, exclaiming, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray Thee, come and lay Thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.”

DA 342.3

Jesus set out at once with the ruler for his home. Though the disciples had seen so many of His works of mercy, they were surprised at His compliance with the entreaty of the haughty rabbi; yet they accompanied their Master, and the people followed, eager and expectant.

DA 342.4

The ruler’s house was not far distant, but Jesus and His companions advanced slowly, for the crowd pressed Him on every side. The anxious father was impatient of delay; but Jesus, pitying the people, stopped now and then to relieve some suffering one, or to comfort a troubled heart.

DA 342.5

While they were still on the way, a messenger pressed through the crowd, bearing to Jairus the news that his daughter was dead, and it was useless to trouble the Master further. The word caught the ear of Jesus. “Fear not,” He said; “believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

DA 343.1

Jairus pressed closer to the Saviour, and together they hurried to the ruler’s home. Already the hired mourners and flute players were there, filling the air with their clamor. The presence of the crowd, and the tumult jarred upon the spirit of Jesus. He tried to silence them, saying, “Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” They were indignant at the words of the Stranger. They had seen the child in the embrace of death, and they laughed Him to scorn. Requiring them all to leave the house, Jesus took with Him the father and mother of the maiden, and the three disciples, Peter, James, and John, and together they entered the chamber of death.

DA 343.2

Jesus approached the bedside, and, taking the child’s hand in His own, He pronounced softly, in the familiar language of her home, the words, “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.”

DA 343.3

Instantly a tremor passed through the unconscious form. The pulses of life beat again. The lips unclosed with a smile. The eyes opened widely as if from sleep, and the maiden gazed with wonder on the group beside her. She arose, and her parents clasped her in their arms, and wept for joy.

DA 343.4

On the way to the ruler’s house, Jesus had met, in the crowd, a poor woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But her hopes revived when she heard of the cures that Christ performed. She felt assured that if she could only go to Him she would be healed. In weakness and suffering she came to the seaside where He was teaching, and tried to press through the crowd, but in vain. Again she followed Him from the house of Levi-Matthew, but was still unable to reach Him. She had begun to despair, when, in making His way through the multitude, He came near where she was.

DA 343.5

The golden opportunity had come. She was in the presence of the Great Physician! But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him, nor catch more than a passing glimpse of His figure. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” As He was passing, she reached forward, and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. But in that moment she knew that she was healed. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life, and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health.

DA 344.1

With a grateful heart she then tried to withdraw from the crowd; but suddenly Jesus stopped, and the people halted with Him. He turned, and looking about asked in a voice distinctly heard above the confusion of the multitude, “Who touched Me?” The people answered this query with a look of amazement. Jostled upon all sides, and rudely pressed hither and thither, as He was, it seemed a strange inquiry.

DA 344.2

Peter, ever ready to speak, said, “Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment. He would speak to the humble woman words of comfort that would be to her a wellspring of joy,—words that would be a blessing to His followers to the close of time.

DA 344.3

Looking toward the woman, Jesus insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told the story of her suffering, and how she had found relief. Jesus gently said, “Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for the mere act of touching His garments. It was not through the outward contact with Him, but through the faith which took hold on His divine power, that the cure was wrought.

DA 347.1

The wondering crowd that pressed close about Christ realized no accession of vital power. But when the suffering woman put forth her hand to touch Him, believing that she would be made whole, she felt the healing virtue. So in spiritual things. To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith in Christ, which accepts Him merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. The faith that is unto salvation is not a mere intellectual assent to the truth. He who waits for entire knowledge before he will exercise faith, cannot receive blessing from God. It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. The only faith that will benefit us is that which embraces Him as a personal Saviour; which appropriates His merits to ourselves. Many hold faith as an opinion. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith is life. A living faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.

DA 347.2

After healing the woman, Jesus desired her to acknowledge the blessing she had received. The gifts which the gospel offers are not to be secured by stealth or enjoyed in secret. So the Lord calls upon us for confession of His goodness. “Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.” Isaiah 43:12.

DA 347.3

Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven’s chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. We are to acknowledge His grace as made known through the holy men of old; but that which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essentially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked by our own individuality. These precious acknowledgments to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christ-like life, have an irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls.

DA 348.1

When the ten lepers came to Jesus for healing, He bade them go and show themselves to the priest. On the way they were cleansed, but only one of them returned to give Him glory. The others went their way, forgetting Him who had made them whole. How many are still doing the same thing! The Lord works continually to benefit mankind. He is ever imparting His bounties. He raises up the sick from beds of languishing, He delivers men from peril which they do not see, He commissions heavenly angels to save them from calamity, to guard them from “the pestilence that walketh in darkness” and “the destruction that wasteth at noonday” (Psalm 91:6); but their hearts are unimpressed. He has given all the riches of heaven to redeem them, and yet they are unmindful of His great love. By their ingratitude they close their hearts against the grace of God. Like the heath in the desert they know not when good cometh, and their souls inhabit the parched places of the wilderness.

DA 348.2

It is for our own benefit to keep every gift of God fresh in our memory. Thus faith is strengthened to claim and to receive more and more. There is greater encouragement for us in the least blessing we ourselves receive from God than in all the accounts we can read of the faith and experience of others. The soul that responds to the grace of God shall be like a watered garden. His health shall spring forth speedily; his light shall rise in obscurity, and the glory of the Lord shall be seen upon him. Let us then remember the loving-kindness of the Lord, and the multitude of His tender mercies. Like the people of Israel, let us set up our stones of witness, and inscribe upon them the precious story of what God has wrought for us. And as we review His dealings with us in our pilgrimage, let us, out of hearts melted with gratitude, declare, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now in the presence of all His people.” Psalm 116:12-14.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 36—The Touch of Faith Brings Healing

HLv 230.1

Returning from Gergesa to the western shore of Lake Galilee, Jesus found a multitude gathered to receive Him. He remained by the seaside for a time, teaching and healing, and then went to the house of Levi-Matthew to meet the publicans at the feast. Here Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, found Him. In great distress he exclaimed, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray Thee, come and lay Thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.”

HLv 230.2

Jesus set out at once with the ruler for his home. The disciples were surprised at His compliance with the entreaty of the haughty rabbi, yet they accompanied their Master, and the people followed. Jesus and His companions advanced slowly, for the crowd pressed Him on every side. The anxious father was impatient, but Jesus stopped now and then to relieve suffering, or to comfort a troubled heart.

HLv 230.3

While they were on the way, a messenger pressed through the crowd, bearing the news that Jairus’s daughter was dead. The word caught the ear of Jesus. “Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

HLv 230.4

Together they hurried to the ruler’s home. Already hired mourners and flute players were filling the air with their clamor. Jesus tried to silence them: “Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.” They were indignant at the words of the Stranger. They had seen the child in the embrace of death. Requiring them all to leave, Jesus took the father and mother of the maiden, and Peter, James, and John, and entered the chamber of death.

HLv 231.1

Jesus approached the bedside and, taking the child’s hand in His own, pronounced softly, in the familiar language of her home, “Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.”

HLv 231.2

Instantly a tremor passed through the unconscious form. The eyes opened widely as if from sleep, and the maiden gazed with wonder on the group beside her. She arose, and her parents clasped her in their arms, and wept for joy.

HLv 231.3

On the way to the ruler’s house, Jesus had met a poor woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means on physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But her hopes revived when she heard of Christ. If she could only go to Him she would be healed. In weakness and suffering she came to the seaside where He was teaching, and tried to press through the crowd, but in vain. She followed Him from the house of Levi-Matthew, but was still unable to reach Him. She had begun to despair when He came near where she was.

HLv 231.4

She was in the presence of the Great Physician! But amid the confusion she could not speak to Him or catch more than a passing glimpse of Him. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” As He was passing, she reached forward and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life; and instantly her pain and feebleness gave place to the vigor of perfect health.

HLv 231.5

With grateful heart she tried to withdraw from the crowd, but suddenly Jesus stopped. Looking about, He asked in a voice distinctly heard above the confusion, “Who touched Me?” Jostled on all sides, as he was, it seemed a strange inquiry.

HLv 231.6

Peter, ever ready to speak, said, “Master, the multitude throng Thee and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” The Saviour could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Such trust should not be passed without comment. He would speak to the humble woman words of comfort, words that would be a blessing to His followers to the close of time.

HLv 232.1

Looking toward the woman, Jesus insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward, trembling. With grateful tears she told of her suffering and how she had found relief. Jesus said, “Daughter, ... thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” He gave no opportunity for superstition to claim healing virtue for touching His garments. Through the faith which took hold on His divine power, the cure was wrought.

HLv 232.2

To talk of religion in a casual way, to pray without soul hunger and living faith, avails nothing. A nominal faith, which accepts Christ merely as the Saviour of the world, can never bring healing to the soul. Faith is not mere intellectual assent to truth. It is not enough to believe about Christ; we must believe in Him. Saving faith is a transaction by which those who receive Christ join themselves in covenant relation with God. Genuine faith means an increase of vigor, a confiding trust, by which the soul becomes a conquering power.

HLv 232.3

After healing the woman, Jesus desired her to acknowledge the blessing she had received. The gifts which the gospel offers are not to be enjoyed in secret. Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven’s chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. That which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. See Isaiah 43:12. Acknowledgments of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls.

HLv 233.1

When the ten lepers came to Jesus for healing, they were cleansed; but only one returned to give Him glory. The others went their way, forgetting Him who had made them whole. How many still do the same thing! The Lord raises up the sick, He delivers men from peril, He commissions angels to save them from calamity, to guard them from pestilence and destruction (Psalm 91:6); yet they are unmindful of His great love. By ingratitude they close their hearts against the grace of God.

HLv 233.2

It is for our own benefit to keep every gift of God fresh in our memory. Thus faith is strengthened. Let us, then, remember the loving-kindness of the Lord. And as we review God’s dealings with us, let us declare, “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” Psalm 116:12.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Chief Among Ten Thousand, January 30

JNN 37.1

And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment.—Matthew 9:20

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 13, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 13, 1899, par. 6

In answer to an earnest invitation, Christ was on His way to exercise His divine skill as a compassionate physician. As He went, the multitude pressed as closely to Him as possible, anxious to get near the center of attraction. There was a woman in the throng who had long been troubled with a painful malady. For twelve years she had suffered. She had spent all she had on physicians, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse. She was told of Christ’s power, but she did not think herself worthy of His notice. She thought, “If I may but touch the hem of his garment, I shall be made whole.” [Matthew 9:20, 21.] She watched her opportunity, and knowing her heart’s desire, Christ in His infinite love moved in her direction. In faith she put forth her hand, and touching the hem of His garment, was instantly made whole. Her faith was not in the garment, but in the virtue which the garment covered.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 78, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 78, 1905, par. 4

The Sovereign of heaven is working upon the hearts of His human agents, giving them blessings that exceed all their expectations. The Lord Jesus places Himself in the channel where His human subjects may approach Him. And He permits even the touch of faith for a stolen blessing. But He made known to the one who had been healed that He recognized the touch of faith, even though the people were pressing close upon Him. “If I can but touch the hem of His garment,” the woman said, “I shall be made whole.” [Matthew 9:20, 21.] She worked her way through the multitude until she saw her opportunity. That touch of faith brought healing.

Conflict and Courage

It Has to Be Personal, October 19

CC 298.1

If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. Matthew 9:21.

Our Father Cares

It Has to Be Personal, July 26

OFC 219.1

If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. Matthew 9:21.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 4—The Touch of Faith

MH 59.1

“If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” Matthew 9:21. It was a poor woman who spoke these words—a woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But as she heard of the Great Healer, her hopes revived. She thought, “If only I could get near enough to speak to Him, I might be healed.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 111, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 13

“If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.]

19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 17

They advanced but slowly; for the crowd pressed Christ on every side. In making His way through the multitude, the Saviour came near to where the afflicted woman was standing. Again and again she had tried to get near to Him, but had failed. Now her golden opportunity had come. She could see no way of speaking to Him. She would not seek to hinder His slow advance. She would not, in the presence of the multitude, speak a word to arrest His attention. But she had heard that healing came from a touch of His garments. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 85, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, par. 26

We need to have the simple faith in the power of Christ that was manifested by the poor woman who had been afflicted so many years, but when she reached the place where the Saviour was, could not get near enough to Him to present her petition. She said, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.] Acting upon her faith in the Saviour’s power, she reached forward in the crowd as He passed, and succeeded in touching the border of His garment. Immediately she was made whole.

My Life Today

The Touch of Faith, January 9

ML 13.1

For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour. Matthew 9:21, 22.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3

Spiritual Gifts

3SG 28.2

It is humble, confiding faith that moves omnipotence. Those only who have this faith may expect the manifestation of the gifts. Mark 2:5. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.” Chapter 9:23. “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Matthew 9:21, 22.“For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her he said, Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.” Chapter 15:28. “Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith; be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.”

Christ Triumphant

The Touch of Faith Is Healing, August 20

CTr 239.1

But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. Matthew 9:22.

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

MR No. 319—History of Adventists in Italy

5MR 273.1

My text was Matthew 9:28-30. The congregation were, many of them, intelligent men and women. I presented the truth in its simplicity, that old and young could understand. This was the manner of Jesus’ preaching. He taught the people in simplicity. He used no large words that the unlearned could not understand. The unlearned, the veriest child, could understand His words....

The Voice in Speech and Song

God’s Modern Messenger

VSS 400.2

Message onMatthew 9:28-30—My text was Matthew 9:28-30. The congregation were, many of them, intelligent men and women. I presented the truth in its simplicity, that old and young could understand. This was the manner of Jesus’ preaching. He taught the people in simplicity. He used no large words that the unlearned could not understand. The unlearned, the veriest child, could understand His words.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 62, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 62, 1886, par. 51

My text was Matthew 9:28-30. The congregation—many of them—were intelligent looking. All were dressed neatly—the women and children in their peasant dress of blue calico and dainty little white bonnets. I wished to present the truth in simplicity, that all could understand, old and young. I had much freedom in speaking. The Elder of the Baptist or Vaudois church and some of his prominent members were present to take notes and designed to show opposition; but I preached Christ and Him crucified, and our meeting passed off pleasantly.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 55, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 3

We attended our appointment at Villar. The room could not possibly hold one third of the people. The seats were removed and placed in the yard in the open air, with the canopy of heaven for a covering. Women and young girls, with but few exceptions, were dressed with white cap-like bonnets, white as snow, with quilted fronts, and light and dark colored blue cotton dresses. They looked neat in their Sunday best. Between three and four hundred composed the congregation. But one third could be provided with seats. The rest were obliged to stand through the services. I expected the novelty of having a meeting in the open air would lead some to feel at liberty to amuse themselves and disturb the meeting, but I was happily disappointed. With but few exceptions they were as quiet and orderly as in a meetinghouse, and the only disturbance was when some new ones would come in to find a place favorable to hear. To hear a woman speak and to have services in the open air was to them an entirely new thing. After I had spoken a few moments there was the best of attention. A solemn hush seemed to be upon the people. Young men and young women looked serious. Many were in tears. My text was Matthew 9:28-30. The congregation were, many of them, intelligent men and women. I presented the truth in its simplicity, that old and young could understand. This was the manner of Jesus’ preaching. He taught the people in simplicity. He used no large words that the unlearned could not understand. The unlearned, the veriest child, could understand His words.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Letter 94a, 1909

2SAT 313.2

I want to read you a few words concerning Christ’s work of ministry: [Matthew 9:28-36, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 94a, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 94a, 1909, par. 41

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Matthew 9:28-36.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Christ’s Followers the Light of the World

GW92 435.2

Do not consult feeling; for feeling is not to be our guide. We are to walk by faith, not by sight. Do not let unbelief separate you from God. Do not let one word of unbelief or discouragement escape your lips. Satan is pleased at every such expression, because it is dishonoring to Jesus. Seek earnestly to remedy every defect of character. Put away murmuring and fretfulness. In the indulgence of these traits you represent Satan, the prince of darkness, and not Christ, the Prince of light. Cast no shadow to darken the pathway of others. Walk in the light, and the peace and joy that shine in the face of Jesus will be reflected in you. Jesus lives; and his promise is, “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Matthew 9:29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 90, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 90, 1900, par. 43

As the light comes to me I must discern the light, appreciate the light, and walk in the light as Christ has invited us. Oh, my prayer is, “Increase my faith.” [Luke 17:5.] There must be more living and walking in the light. Christ is the light and we must take hold of the light. “Believe that ye receive” the things ye ask for “and ye shall have them.” [Mark 11:24.] “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Matthew 9:29.] He that so loved the world has evidenced the same by giving His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have life everlasting.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 11, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, par. 5

As we strive to represent Christ to the world we must exercise faith in Him. He says, “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Matthew 9:29.] It was by faith that Enoch walked with God. Do not ask others to exercise faith in your behalf. You are yourself to obtain a daily experience in the things of God. You are yourself to realize the truth of the words, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” [Mark 9:23.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 96, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 96, 1902, par. 34

Let not your faith weaken; for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Matthew 9:29.] Believe that ye receive the things ye ask for, and ye shall have them. Pray, believe, rejoice! Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” [Hebrews 10:23.] Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open, the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of health and life and salvation.

In Heavenly Places

We Expect Too Little, April 10

HP 107.1

According to your faith be it unto you. Matthew 9:29.

Prayer

Chapter 5—God’s Promises Concerning Prayer

Pr 51.2

Blessings Will Be Proportionate to Our Faith—Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.”“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 9:29; Matthew 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:274.)

Prayer

Chapter 6—The Prayer Of Faith

Pr 55.1

Our Lives Are to Be in Harmony With Our Petitions—Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.”“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 9:29; Matthew 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:274.)

Prayer

Chapter 11—Answered Prayer

Pr 100.3

Rejoice That God Has Answered Your Prayers—Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.”“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 9:29; Matthew 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:274.)

Prayer

Chapter 19—Attitudes in Prayer

Pr 216.4

Pray in Faith—Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.” “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 9:29; Matthew 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:274.)

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Power from on High

7T 274.1

Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.” “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 9:29; 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.

This Day With God

According to Your Faith, July 26

TDG 216.1

Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. Matthew 9:29.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 91, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 91, 1898, par. 6

The ministers need not be sick and die. If they will come to the great Physician, He will say to them, “Be whole.” “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Mark 5:34; Matthew 9:29.] It is dishonoring to God to distrust Him, to doubt His willingness to save. All persons, teachers and pupils, by indulging appetite, are doing injury to themselves. The desserts that are taken in the form of custards are liable to do more harm than good. Fruit, if it can be obtained, is the best article of food. All wheat flour is not best for a continuous diet. A mixture of wheat, oatmeal, and rye would be more nutritious than the wheat with the nutrifying properties separated from it.

Christ Triumphant

Pharisees Refused to Acknowledge Christ’s Power, August 26

CTr 245.1

But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils. Matthew 9:34.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 33—Who Are My Brethren?

DA 321.3

It was just before this that Jesus had a second time performed the miracle of healing a man possessed, blind and dumb, and the Pharisees had reiterated the charge, “He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.” Matthew 9:34. Christ told them plainly that in attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan, they were cutting themselves off from the fountain of blessing. Those who had spoken against Jesus Himself, not discerning His divine character, might receive forgiveness; for through the Holy Spirit they might be brought to see their error and repent. Whatever the sin, if the soul repents and believes, the guilt is washed away in the blood of Christ; but he who rejects the work of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance and faith cannot come to him. It is by the Spirit that God works upon the heart; when men willfully reject the Spirit, and declare It to be from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with them. When the Spirit is finally rejected, there is no more that God can do for the soul.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Willfully Rejecting the Spirit, January 28

YRP 36.2

It was just before this that Jesus had a second time performed the miracle of healing a man possessed, blind and dumb, and the Pharisees had reiterated the charge, “He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils” (Matthew 9:34). Christ told them plainly that in attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan, they were cutting themselves off from the fountain of blessing. Those who had spoken against Jesus Himself, not discerning His divine character, might receive forgiveness; for through the Holy Spirit they might be brought to see their error and repent. Whatever the sin, if the soul repents and believes, the guilt is washed away in the blood of Christ; but he who rejects the work of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance and faith cannot come to him.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 33—How Jesus Related to Family Problems

HLv 213.3

The Pharisees had reiterated the charge, “He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.” Matthew 9:34. Christ told them that those who spoke against Himself, not discerning His divine character, might receive forgiveness; through the Holy Spirit they might see their error and repent. But he who rejects the work of the Holy Spirit is placing himself where repentance cannot come to him. When men willfully reject the Spirit, and declare it to be from Satan, they cut off the channel by which God can communicate with them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 40a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 13

Those who would be the servants of Christ will have a constant conflict with Satan, who claims the dominion of the earth. Evil angels conspire with evil men that the world may be held under the sway of Satan. The whole energy of apostasy was directed against Jesus, the Champion of God and His truth. The prince of darkness led the Jewish leaders to scorn Jesus as a deceiver, and they said of Him, “He hath a devil,” “he casteth out devils through the prince of devils.” [John 10:20; Matthew 9:34.] Those who believe in the words of Christ, who follow in His footsteps, will not escape the enmity of Satan and the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 44, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 44, 1890, par. 33

I saw that strange things would arise—fanciful things. Every man who becomes a laborer together with God will have a hatred of evil, and will resist those passions which are excited and kept in active exercise by Satan to deal treacherously with their fellow brethren. All who will become partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust, have a constant conflict with Satan, who claims dominion over the earth. Evil angels conspire with evil men that the world shall be held under the sway of Satan. The whole aim of the apostasy is to destroy the champions of God and the truth. Jesus Christ came that the world through Him might have life, but He was scorned as a deceiver and they said of Him, “He hath a devil. He doeth miracles through the prince of devils.” [Verse 20; Matthew 9:34.] The cause of truth will be betrayed and God dishonored.

My Life Today

Work for the Needy, August 14

ML 230.1

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. Matthew 9:35.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 7, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 7, 1908, par. 14

Often we have been told that our cities are to hear the message, but how slow we are to heed the instruction. I saw One standing on a high platform with arms extended. He turned and pointed in every direction, saying, “A world perishing in ignorance of God’s holy law, and Seventh-day Adventists are asleep.” The Lord is pleading for laborers; for there is a great work to be done. There are conversions to be made that will add to the church such as shall be saved. Men and women in the highways and byways are to be reached. We read of Christ’s labors: “Jesus went through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.” [Matthew 9:35.] Just such a work as this is to be done in our cities and villages, in the highways and hedges. The gospel of the third angel’s <message> is to be carried to all classes.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Great Physician, May 11

JNN 142.1

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.—Matthew 9:35

Ye Shall Receive Power

Welfare Ministry, August 22

YRP 243.1

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Matthew 9:35, 36.

Ministry to the Cities

Foreword

MTC 9.4

When Jesus walked the earth, He “went about all the cities and villages,” teaching, preaching, and healing. The crowds moved Him deeply: “When He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were ... like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:35, 36, NKJV). Today most of the world’s population lives in cities. Does Jesus care for them any less than He did for those in the cities 2,000 years ago? It is no wonder that Ellen G. White was given so much counsel on the city to equip the church for comprehensive urban evangelism and ministry. Yet her instruction on city work is less well known than her appeals for locating in more ruralsettings. The brief compilation Country Living (1946) has brought well-deserved attention to those appeals. As a complement to that collection, the current volume, Ministry to the Cities, is designed to help readers understand God’s plan for doing ministry in the city. Prepared in the offices of the Ellen G. White Estate, it draws not only from the articles, books, and pamphlets of Ellen G. White, but also from her letters and manuscripts. It is not an exhaustive compilation of her counsel on the cities, but as a representative collection it is highly informative. It covers many areas of instruction Ellen White received for the church and its outreach to the world’s cities. To aid the reader, years are given for the statements included in this volume. For letters and manuscripts, the year indicates the time of writing; for other sources, it is the time of first publication in the stated form. Citations to Testimonies for the Church, volumes 1-5, reflect the year of their earlier publication as Testimony pamphlets.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 136, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 136, 1908, par. 6

“And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.” Matthew 9:35. Our sanitariums are ordained of God to treat sickness of souls and bodies.

23LtMs, Ms 136, 1908, par. 7

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. ... Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into his harvest.” Verses 36-38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 113, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, par. 7

“Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:35-38.]

Prayer

“Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11.

Pr 295.3

But you are as a child who is not yet placed in control of his inheritance. God does not entrust to you your precious possession, lest Satan by his wily arts should beguile you, as he did the first pair in Eden. Christ holds it for you, safe beyond the spoiler’s reach. Like the child, you shall receive day by day what is required for the day’s need. Every day you are to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Be not dismayed if you have not sufficient for tomorrow. You have the assurance of His promise, “So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.” David says, “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37:3, 25. That God who sent the ravens to feed Elijah by the brook Cherith will not pass by one of His faithful, self-sacrificing children. Of him that walketh righteously it is written: “Bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.” “They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.” “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Isaiah 33:16; Psalm 37:19; Romans 8:32. He who lightened the cares and anxieties of His widowed mother and helped her to provide for the household at Nazareth, sympathizes with every mother in her struggle to provide her children food. He who had compassion on the multitude because they “fainted, and were scattered abroad” (Matthew 9:36), still has compassion on the suffering poor. His hand is stretched out toward them in blessing; and in the very prayer which He gave His disciples, He teaches us to remember the poor.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Give us this day our daily bread.”—Matthew 6:11.

MB 110.3

But you are as a child who is not yet placed in control of his inheritance. God does not entrust to you your precious possession, lest Satan by his wily arts should beguile you, as he did the first pair in Eden. Christ holds it for you, safe beyond the spoiler’s reach. Like the child, you shall receive day by day what is required for the day’s need. Every day you are to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Be not dismayed if you have not sufficient for tomorrow. You have the assurance of His promise, “So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.” David says, “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37:3, 25. That God who sent the ravens to feed Elijah by the brook Cherith will not pass by one of His faithful, self-sacrificing children. Of him that walketh righteously it is written: “Bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.” “They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.” “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Isaiah 33:16; Psalm 37:19; Romans 8:32. He who lightened the cares and anxieties of His widowed mother and helped her to provide for the household at Nazareth, sympathizes with every mother in her struggle to provide her children food. He who had compassion on the multitude because they “fainted, and were scattered abroad” (Matthew 9:36), still has compassion on the suffering poor. His hand is stretched out toward them in blessing; and in the very prayer which He gave His disciples, He teaches us to remember the poor.

To Be Like Jesus

Pray for Daily Bread, January 4

BLJ 11.3

He who lightened the cares and anxieties of His widowed mother and helped her to provide for the household at Nazareth sympathizes with every mother in her struggle to provide her children food. He who had compassion on the multitude because they “fainted, and were scattered abroad” (Matthew 9:36) still has compassion on the suffering poor. His hand is stretched out toward them in blessing; and in the very prayer which He gave His disciples, He teaches us to remember the poor....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 189, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 189, 1899, par. 5

I feel sure that this is one of the places from which came such importunate appeals for help. The words I heard were, “Come and help us.” [See Acts 16:9.] Then One who looked upon them with pity said, “They are as sheep having no shepherd.” [Matthew 9:36.] The shepherds do not feed the sheep. From the light God has given me, the work in Maitland must be carried on perseveringly, for the Lord has many precious souls to be saved there. And the way is prepared for us. We have a policeman attending all the meetings he possibly can. He says he never heard such teachings, and yet they are all in the Bible. He is completely ignorant of the meaning of the Word.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 198, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 198, 1899, par. 2

Others with arms outstretched pleaded, “Come over and help us. We are hungering for the bread of life.” Still others I saw coming from the different churches who were distressed and cast down. All were in need. My Guide said to me, “These are as sheep having no shepherd. Speak My Word faithfully to them; for unless their ministers are converted, they will sleep on until the judgments of God will come upon the world. Cry aloud, spare not; lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [See Matthew 9:36; Isaiah 58:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 66, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 66, 1903, par. 10

God’s love will be bestowed on His people if they will do as Jesus did, if they will deny self and lift the cross. Christ took our infirmities, and we are to bear one another’s burdens. We read of Christ, “When He saw the multitude, He was moved with compassion on them.” [Matthew 9:36.] These words are the key to His lifework. We are to reveal in our lives the compassion that He revealed.

Counsels on Health

Multitudes in Distress

CH 13.1

When Christ saw the multitudes that gathered about Him, “He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Christ saw the sickness, the sorrow, the want and degradation of the multitudes that thronged His steps. To Him were presented the needs and woes of humanity throughout the world. Among the high and the low, the most honored and the most degraded, He beheld souls who were longing for the very blessing He had come to bring; souls who needed only a knowledge of His grace, to become subjects of His kingdom. “Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:36-38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 128, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 128, 1905, par. 9

“When He saw the multitude, He was moved with compassion toward them, because, they were as sheep not having a shepherd.” “Then said He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:36-38.] Leaving His retreat, He found a convenient place where He could minister to them. They received no help from the priests and rulers; but the healing waters flowed from Christ as He taught the multitude the way of salvation.

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

MR No. 1180—Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth

15MR 311.3

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest” [Matthew 9:36-38]. Our work is plainly laid down in the Word of God. Christian is to be united to Christian, church to church, the human instrumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency to be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all to be combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.—Letter 77, 1893.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 30—The World’s Need

6T 254.1

When Christ saw the multitudes that gathered about Him, “He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Christ saw the sickness, the sorrow, the want and degradation of the multitudes that thronged His steps. To Him were presented the needs and woes of humanity throughout the world. Among the high and the low, the most honored and the most degraded, He beheld souls who were longing for the very blessings He had come to bring, souls who needed only a knowledge of His grace to become subjects of His kingdom. “Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:36-38.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth

1888 1135.3

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest” [Matthew 9:36-38]. Our work is plainly laid down in the Word of God. Christian is to be united to Christian, church to church, the human instrumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency to be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all to be combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.—Letter 77, 1893.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

The World’s Need

2TT 492.1

When Christ saw the multitudes that gathered about Him, “He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Christ saw the sickness, the sorrow, the want and degradation of the multitudes that thronged His steps. To Him were presented the needs and woes of humanity throughout the world. Among the high and the low, the most honored and the most degraded, He beheld souls who were longing for the very blessings He had come to bring, souls who needed only a knowledge of His grace to become subjects of His kingdom. “Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:36-38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 77, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 77, 1893, par. 66

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:36-38.] Our work is plainly laid down in the Word of God. Christian is to be united to Christian, church to church, the human instrumentality co-operating with the divine, every agency to be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all to be combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 53, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 53, 1897, par. 12

We read of Christ, “When he saw the multitude, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then said he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:36-38.] Consider Christ’s strange compassion—shall we call it? No; it was His natural tenderness of heart. He understood the value of men. He was working to bring the gospel of salvation to sinful man, that through faith in Christ he might forsake his sins, believe in Him, and be saved.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 64, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 64, 1897, par. 1

“When he saw the multitude, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then said he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:36-38.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 183, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 183, 1898, par. 19

We read in the Word, “When he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:36-38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 10, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 10, 1899, par. 29

In every place the temperance question is to be made more prominent. Drunkenness, and the crime that always follows drunkenness, call for the voice to be raised to combat this evil. Christ sees a plentiful harvest waiting to be gathered in. Souls are hungering for the truth, thirsting for the water of life. Many are on the very verge of the kingdom, waiting only to be gathered in. Cannot the people who know the truth see? Will they not hear the voice of Christ saying, “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, for they are white already to harvest.” [Verse 35.] Then came the pitiful lament from the lips of the Saviour, “The laborers are few.” [Matthew 9:37.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 104, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 104, 1903, par. 3

God calls for workers. Men of clear judgment and humble hearts are needed. Christ’s sorrowful lamentation is, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” [Matthew 9:37.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 6, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 6, 1902, par. 44

My brethren and sisters, study the prayer Christ taught His disciples. If we would but bring His spirit and life into the church, we should exert an influence that would move the world. Where are the sowers and the reapers, to sow the seed and gather in the harvest? “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:37, 38.] Yes, pray most earnestly that the Lord will send forth more laborers into the His harvest. To the indolent and indifferent comes the inquiry, “Why stand ye here all the day idle? Work while the day lasts; for the night cometh in which no man can work.” [Matthew 20:6; John 9:4.] The night is stealing on us. Soon it will be here. Soon the doors now thrown open for the entrance of truth will be closed. Now is the time for the Lord’s people to return to Him His own in gifts and offerings and in willing, earnest service.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Diligence and Consecration Needed

GW92 455.1

In all our churches there are persons who might be educated to become workers for Christ. There is certainly a fault among us, or there would be more talent developed to unite with us in our efforts for souls. “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] Have special meetings for the education of workers. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing all around us, and what excuse can we give that they have never been warned?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 55, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 55, 1907, par. 3

“Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] These words teach us how the field is to be supplied with workers who will labor for the salvation of souls. When church members bring the precepts of Christ into the life practice; when they confess their sins to one another, and offer up prayers to God, He will graciously manifest His power through them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 117, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 117, 1907, par. 17

Our sanitariums should be in running order, so that they may act their part in influencing that class of people who can be reached in no other way than by the work of the sanitarium. Our physicians are to rebuke in decided terms the sins which are the cause of sickness and disease. We have need of men who, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, will rebuke gambling and liquor drinking, which are such prevalent evils in these last days. We need men who will bear their message against the selfishness that is eating out the very vitals of godliness. God calls for men of faith and prayer. “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Good Shepherd, April 23

JNN 123.6

When Jesus said to His disciples that the harvest was great and the laborers were few, He did not urge upon them the necessity of ceaseless toil, but bade them, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:38). To His toil-worn workers today as really as to His first disciples He speaks these words of compassion, “Come ye yourselves apart ... and rest awhile.”—The Ministry of Healing, 56-58.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Danger from Overwork

GW 243.3

Though Jesus could work miracles, and had empowered His disciples to work miracles, He directed His worn servants to go apart into the country and rest. When He said that the harvest was great and the laborers were few, He did not urge upon His disciples the necessity of ceaseless toil, but said, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] God has appointed to every man his work, according to his ability; and He would not have a few weighted with responsibilities, while others have no burden, no travail of soul.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Section 6—Among the Colored People

“Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:38.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 38—Come Rest Awhile

DA 361.4

Though Jesus could work miracles, and had empowered His disciples to work miracles, He directed His worn servants to go apart into the country and rest. When He said that the harvest was great, and the laborers were few, He did not urge upon His disciples the necessity of ceaseless toil, but said, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:38. God has appointed to every man his work, according to his ability (Ephesians 4:11-13), and He would not have a few weighted with responsibilities while others have no burden, no travail of soul.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 3—With Nature and With God

MH 58.2

When Jesus said to His disciples that the harvest was great and the laborers were few, He did not urge upon them the necessity of ceaseless toil, but bade them, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:38. To His toil-worn workers today as really as to His first disciples He speaks these words of compassion, “Come ye yourselves apart, ... and rest awhile.”

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 38—Christ and the Twelve Take a Vacation

HLv 242.1

When Jesus said that the harvest was great and the laborers few, He did not urge ceaseless toil, but said, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:38. God would not have a few weighted with responsibilities while others have no burden, no travail of soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 26, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 26, 1894, par. 19

“Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers into his harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] The sowers of the seed, and also the workers who gather in the harvest, are essential. Agencies of every kind will find ample room to work. Every true Christian can do something. To do nothing means to backslide from God and work against His interest. Jesus says, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] By their lack of diligence in working for Christ, His professed followers are ranking themselves with those who manifest positive hostility against Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 153, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 153, 1897, par. 4

Souls are to be gathered as sheaves to Jesus Christ; but where are the reapers? Christ has commanded, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into the harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] Not only is there a need of reapers, but of other agencies that will work in various lines according to their ability. Every kind of labor is to be devised and set in operation. Every follower of Christ is to do something in the work, and not to do what you can, is to manifest an indifference to the claims of Christ. If you refuse to be a faithful steward working under the Master, then you are following the directions of another leader, and ranging yourself with those who are warring against God. Christ said, “He that is not with me, is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] If we are not active in the service of Christ, we are ranking with those who are in positive hostility against Him, for we are in the position of stumbling blocks. Every means of influence God has given you, should be employed to the utmost.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 88, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 88, 1907, par. 2

Brethren and Sisters, God has given to every man his work. He calls upon church members in every place to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to His service. Let us go forth and present the truth to souls who are starving for the bread of life. We must come into line. Then, “pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] These words teach us how the field is to be supplied with workers who will labor for the salvation of souls. When the precepts and example of Christ are brought into the life practice, when church members, instead of gossiping and accusing one another, confess their sins to one another and offer up prayer to God, God will graciously manifest His power through them.