EGW WritingsPhilippians 1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 25, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 25, 1902, par. 41

God’s people are to place their dependence on the power revealed in the love of Christ. The name by which they shall be called is found in the book of Daniel. “The saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever and ever.” [Daniel 7:18.] Our citizenship is in heaven, and we may claim the rights and privileges of subjects of the kingdom of heaven. God requires us not to do anything that will disgrace our citizenship. When Paul wrote to the “saints in Christ Jesus” [Philippians 1:1], he was not writing to those who were perfect in character, those who were in no danger of falling, but to men and women who were striving against temptation. He charges them to stand fast in the faith, and to guard against strife, vain glory, selfishness, and dishonesty. Let us serve the Lord in sincerity of mind, guided by the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. “Know ye not that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness.” [Romans 6:16.]

This Day With God

Think on These Things, October 18

TDG 300.4

In Paul’s epistle to the Philippians, he says, “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:1-6). Let us all make this spirit ours.—Manuscript 187, October 18, 1898, diary.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 187, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 45

In Paul’s epistle to the Philippians he says, “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Jesus Christ which are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons, Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God in every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” [Philippians 1:1-6.]

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 47

By pen and voice we are to encourage the churches newly come to the faith. There was harmony, a Christian fellowship, a tender union between Paul and Timotheus for those newly converted Christians. To them the prospect was cheering that they would continue in the good work begun for them. “Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart: inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.” [Verse 7.] He binds up his newly converted with his own heart’s affections.

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 48

The Lord would have us here this morning learn our lesson of tenderness and compassion. “For God is my record,” said Paul, “how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment.” [Verses 8, 9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 151, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 38

In Paul’s epistle to the Philippians he says, “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Jesus Christ which are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons, Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God in every remembrance of you. Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 1:1-6.]

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 39

Let us all make this spirit ours. The apostle feels grateful that the Philippians have become converts to the faith, and after giving them his benediction, he expresses his interest, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request with joy.” [Verses 3, 4.] This should be the attitude of the ministers to the churches newly come to the faith; and this should be the attitude of the churches in good works and Christlike character, that the ministers who have labored for them may be able to make request to God for them with joy.

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 40

The apostle sees reason, because of the sincerity of their faith, to have confidence that He which has begun a good work in them will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. They were keeping the day of Christ constantly in view. This is to be our work. By pen and voice we are to encourage the churches newly come to the faith. There was harmony, a Christian fellowship, a tender union between Paul and Timotheus for those newly converted Christians. To them the prospect was cheering that they would continue on the good work begun for them. “Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart: inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.” [Verse 7.] He binds up his newly converted with his own heart’s affections.

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 41

The Lord would have us here this morning learn our lesson of tenderness and compassion. “For God is my record,” said Paul, “how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment.” [Verses 8, 9.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 909—Attending and Acting in Theatrical Performances

11MR 341.2

Who are the subjects of the kingdom of heaven? Daniel tells the world the name by which they shall be called. “The saints of the most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever” (Daniel 7:18). And Paul writes to the Philippians: [Philippians 1:1, 9-11; Ephesians 2:18-22 quoted].

11MR 341.3

All who are enrolled as citizens of the heavenly country are required that their behavior shall be such as the gospel of Christ can approve. And it is our privilege to claim the rights and privileges of subjects of the kingdom of heaven. But to everyone who accepts Christ as his personal Saviour, He says, “Come out from among them [the world] and be ye separate.” We are to conform to the Lord’s requirements, and not disgrace our citizenship before the angels of heaven or before men. We are to render to God cheerful service. Christ does not speak to those who are no more to wrestle with temptation; who are not in any danger of being drawn away from Christ and overcome by the wiles of Satan, when He says: “Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ.... Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; ... For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake” (Philippians 1:27, 29). There is to be no strife or vainglory, no selfishness or murmuring, no disputing, nothing impure or dishonest found in the characters of the followers of Christ.—Letter 58a, 1898, pp. 1-11. (To Mrs. Gorick, July, 1898. Copied July 19, 1898.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 58a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 22

Who are the subjects of the kingdom of heaven? Daniel tells the world the name by which they shall be called. “And the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever and ever.” [Daniel 7:18.] And Paul writes to the Philippians: “To all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi: ... grace be unto you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. ... And this I pray that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment. That ye may approve things that are excellent, that ye may be sincere and without offense in the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:1, 2, 9-11.]

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 24

All who are enrolled as citizens of the heavenly country are required that their behavior shall be such as the Gospel of Christ can approve. And it is our privilege to claim the rights and privileges of subjects of the kingdom of heaven. But to every one who accepts Christ as his personal Saviour, He says, “Come out from among them [the world] and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] We are to conform to the Lord’s requirements and not disgrace our citizenship before the angels of heaven or before men. We are to render to God cheerful service. Christ does not speak to those who are no more to wrestle with temptation, who are not in any danger of being drawn away from Christ and overcome by the wiles of Satan, when He says: “Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ.” [Philippians 1:27.]

13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 25

“Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of the gospel. ... For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.” [Verses 27, 29.] There is to be no strife or vainglory, no selfishness or murmuring, no disputing, nothing impure or dishonest, found in the characters of the followers of Christ.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 45—Written From Rome

AA 469.1

The apostle Paul early in his Christian experience was given special opportunities to learn the will of God concerning the followers of Jesus. He was “caught up to the third heaven,” “into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.” He himself acknowledged that many “visions and revelations” had been given him “of the Lord.” His understanding of the principles of gospel truth was equal to that of “the very chiefest apostles.” 2 Corinthians 12:2, 4, 1, 11. He had a clear, full comprehension of “the breadth, and length, and depth, and height” of “the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Ephesians 3:18, 19.

AA 469.2

Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision; for among his hearers were some who would have misapplied his words. But that which was revealed to him enabled him to labor as a leader and a wise teacher, and also molded the messages that he in later years sent to the churches. The impression that he received when in vision was ever with him, enabling him to give a correct representation of Christian character. By word of mouth and by letter he bore a message that ever since has brought help and strength to the church of God. To believers today this message speaks plainly of the dangers that will threaten the church, and the false doctrines that they will have to meet.

AA 470.1

The apostle’s desire for those to whom he addressed his letters of counsel and admonition was that they should “be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine;” but that they should all come into “the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” He entreated those who were followers of Jesus in heathen communities not to walk “as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God ... because of the blindness of their heart,” but “circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time.” Ephesians 4:14, 13, 17, 18; 5:15, 16. He encouraged the believers to look forward to the time when Christ, who “loved the church, and gave Himself for it,” would “present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing”—a church “holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25, 27.

AA 470.2

These messages, written with a power not of man but of God, contain lessons which should be studied by all and which may with profit be often repeated. In them practical godliness is outlined, principles are laid down that should be followed in every church, and the way that leads to life eternal is made plain.

AA 471.1

In his letter to “the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse,” written while he was a prisoner in Rome, Paul makes mention of his joy over their steadfastness in the faith, tidings of which had been brought him by Epaphras, who, the apostle wrote, “declared unto us your love in the Spirit. For this cause,” he continued, “we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.”

AA 471.2

Thus Paul put into words his desire for the Colossian believers. How high the ideal that these words hold before the follower of Christ! They show the wonderful possibilities of the Christian life and make it plain that there is no limit to the blessings that the children of God may receive. Constantly increasing in a knowledge of God, they may go on from strength to strength, from height to height in Christian experience, until by “His glorious power” they are made “meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.”

AA 471.3

The apostle exalted Christ before his brethren as the One by whom God had created all things and by whom He had wrought out their redemption. He declared that the hand that sustains the worlds in space, and holds in their orderly arrangements and tireless activity all things throughout the universe of God, is the hand that was nailed to the cross for them. “By Him were all things created,” Paul wrote, “that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in His sight.”

AA 472.1

The Son of God stooped to uplift the fallen. For this He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninety and nine that loved Him, and came to this earth to be “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He knew what it meant to be hungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He was a stranger and a sojourner on the earth—in the world, but not of the world; tempted and tried as men and women of today are tempted and tried, yet living a life free from sin. Tender, compassionate, sympathetic, ever considerate of others, He represented the character of God. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.

AA 473.1

Surrounded by the practices and influences of heathenism, the Colossian believers were in danger of being drawn away from the simplicity of the gospel, and Paul, in warning them against this, pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide. “I would that ye knew,” he wrote, “what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

AA 473.2

“And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.... As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power.”

AA 473.3

Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise, through whose influence “iniquity” should “abound,” and “the love of many” should “wax cold.” Matthew 24:12. He had warned the disciples that the church would be in more danger from this evil than from the persecution of her enemies. Again and again Paul warned the believers against these false teachers. This peril, above all others, they must guard against; for by receiving false teachers, they would open the door to errors by which the enemy would dim the spiritual perceptions and shake the confidence of those newly come to the faith of the gospel. Christ was the standard by which they were to test the doctrines presented. All that was not in harmony with His teachings they were to reject. Christ crucified for sin, Christ risen from the dead, Christ ascended on high—this was the science of salvation that they were to learn and teach.

AA 474.1

The warnings of the word of God regarding the perils surrounding the Christian church belong to us today. As in the days of the apostles men tried by tradition and philosophy to destroy faith in the Scriptures, so today, by the pleasing sentiments of higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil, because they have turned their minds into channels of speculative belief that bring misunderstanding and confusion. The work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, reconstructing, is destroying faith in the Bible as a divine revelation. It is robbing God’s word of power to control, uplift, and inspire human lives. By spiritualism, multitudes are taught to believe that desire is the highest law, that license is liberty, and that man is accountable only to himself.

AA 474.2

The follower of Christ will meet with the “enticing words” against which the apostle warned the Colossian believers. He will meet with spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. His voice is to be heard in clear affirmation of the eternal truths of the Scriptures. Keeping his eyes fixed on Christ, he is to move steadily forward in the path marked out, discarding all ideas that are not in harmony with His teaching. The truth of God is to be the subject for his contemplation and meditation. He is to regard the Bible as the voice of God speaking directly to him. Thus he will find the wisdom which is divine.

AA 475.1

The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This is the knowledge that works transformation of character. Received into the life, it will re-create the soul in the image of Christ. This is the knowledge that God invites His children to receive, beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.

AA 475.2

In every generation and in every land the true foundation for character building has been the same—the principles contained in the word of God. The only safe and sure rule is to do what God says. “The statutes of the Lord are right,” and “he that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalms 19:8; 15:5. It was with the word of God that the apostles met the false theories of their day, saying, “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid.” 1 Corinthians 3:11.

AA 475.3

At the time of their conversion and baptism the Colossian believers pledged themselves to put away beliefs and practices that had hitherto been a part of their lives, and to be true to their allegiance to Christ. In his letter, Paul reminded them of this, and entreated them not to forget that in order to keep their pledge they must put forth constant effort against the evils that would seek for mastery over them. “If ye then be risen with Christ,” he said, “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.”

AA 476.1

“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have become transformed into the image of God. This change is in itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the Word. We cannot understand it; we can only believe, as declared by the Scriptures, it is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

AA 476.2

When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; for he realizes that in his experience the promise of God has been fulfilled, that his transgression has been forgiven, his sin covered. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law, and faith toward Christ, who died for man’s justification. “Being justified by faith,” he has “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

AA 476.3

But because this experience is his, the Christian is not therefore to fold his hands, content with that which has been accomplished for him. He who has determined to enter the spiritual kingdom will find that all the powers and passions of unregenerate nature, backed by the forces of the kingdom of darkness, are arrayed against him. Each day he must renew his consecration, each day do battle with evil. Old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong, will strive for the mastery, and against these he is to be ever on guard, striving in Christ’s strength for victory.

AA 477.1

“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth,” Paul wrote to the Colossians; “in the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

AA 477.2

The letter to the Colossians is filled with lessons of highest value to all who are engaged in the service of Christ, lessons that show the singleness of purpose and the loftiness of aim which will be seen in the life of him who rightly represents the Saviour. Renouncing all that would hinder him from making progress in the upward way or that would turn the feet of another from the narrow path, the believer will reveal in his daily life mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, forbearance, and the love of Christ.

AA 478.1

The power of a higher, purer, nobler life is our great need. The world has too much of our thought, and the kingdom of heaven too little.

AA 478.2

In his efforts to reach God’s ideal for him, the Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection, through the grace and power of Christ, is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power, the fountain of life. He brings us to His word, and from the tree of life presents to us leaves for the healing of sin-sick souls. He leads us to the throne of God, and puts into our mouth a prayer through which we are brought into close contact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. At every step we touch His living power.

AA 478.3

God fixes no limit to the advancement of those who desire to be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” Through prayer, through watchfulness, through growth in knowledge and understanding, they are to be “strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power.” Thus they are prepared to work for others. It is the Saviour’s purpose that human beings, purified and sanctified, shall be His helping hand. For this great privilege let us give thanks to Him who “hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son.”

AA 479.1

Paul’s letter to the Philippians, like the one to the Colossians, was written while he was a prisoner at Rome. The church at Philippi had sent gifts to Paul by the hand of Epaphroditus, whom Paul calls “my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.” While in Rome, Epaphroditus was sick, “nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him,” Paul wrote, “and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.” Hearing of the sickness of Epaphroditus, the believers at Philippi were filled with anxiety regarding him, and he decided to return to them. “He longed after you all,” Paul wrote, “and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.... I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.”

AA 479.2

By Epaphroditus, Paul sent the Philippian believers a letter, in which he thanked them for their gifts to him. Of all the churches, that of Philippi had been the most liberal in supplying Paul’s wants. “Now ye Philippians know also,” the apostle said in his letter, “that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.”

AA 480.1

“Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all.... And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”

AA 480.2

The grace of God sustained Paul in his imprisonment, enabling him to rejoice in tribulation. With faith and assurance he wrote to his Philippian brethren that his imprisonment had resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. “I would ye should understand, brethren,” he declared, “that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; so that my bonds with Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; and many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

AA 481.1

There is a lesson for us in this experience of Paul’s, for it reveals God’s way of working. The Lord can bring victory out of that which may seem to us discomfiture and defeat. We are in danger of forgetting God, of looking at the things which are seen, instead of beholding by the eye of faith the things which are unseen. When misfortune or calamity comes, we are ready to charge God with neglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off our usefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping to think that thus God may be working for our good. We need to learn that chastisement is a part of His great plan and that under the rod of affliction the Christian may sometimes do more for the Master than when engaged in active service.

AA 481.2

As their example in the Christian life, Paul pointed the Philippians to Christ, who, “being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in a fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

AA 481.3

“Wherefore, my beloved,” he continued, “as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.”

AA 482.1

These words were recorded for the help of every striving soul. Paul holds up the standard of perfection and shows how it may be reached. “Work out your own salvation,” he says, “for it is God which worketh in you.”

AA 482.2

The work of gaining salvation is one of copartnership, a joint operation. There is to be co-operation between God and the repentant sinner. This is necessary for the formation of right principles in the character. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome that which hinders him from attaining to perfection. But he is wholly dependent upon God for success. Human effort of itself is not sufficient. Without the aid of divine power it avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. On the one side there is infinite wisdom, compassion, and power; on the other, weakness, sinfulness, absolute helplessness.

AA 482.3

God wishes us to have the mastery over ourselves. But He cannot help us without our consent and co-operation. The divine Spirit works through the powers and faculties given to man. Of ourselves, we are not able to bring the purposes and desires and inclinations into harmony with the will of God; but if we are “willing to be made willing,” the Saviour will accomplish this for us, “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.

AA 483.1

He who would build up a strong, symmetrical character, he who would be a well-balanced Christian, must give all and do all for Christ; for the Redeemer will not accept divided service. Daily he must learn the meaning of self-surrender. He must study the word of God, learning its meaning and obeying its precepts. Thus he may reach the standard of Christian excellence. Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the time of final test. And day by day the believer is working out before men and angels a sublime experiment, showing what the gospel can do for fallen human beings.

AA 483.2

“I count not myself to have apprehended,” Paul wrote; “but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

AA 483.3

Paul did many things. From the time that he gave his allegiance to Christ, his life was filled with untiring service. From city to city, from country to country, he journeyed, telling the story of the cross, winning converts to the gospel, and establishing churches. For these churches he had a constant care, and he wrote many letters of instruction to them. At times he worked at his trade to earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his calling. One aim he kept steadfastly before him—to be faithful to the One who at the gate of Damascus had revealed Himself to him. From this aim nothing had power to turn him aside. To exalt the cross of Calvary—this was the all-absorbing motive that inspired his words and acts.

AA 484.1

The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself wholly to God’s service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his attentions from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands.

AA 484.2

Though he was a prisoner, Paul was not discouraged. Instead, a note of triumph rings through the letters that he wrote from Rome to the churches. “Rejoice in the Lord alway,” he wrote to the Philippians, “and again I say, Rejoice.... Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

AA 484.3

“My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.... The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.”

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 45—The Letters Paul Wrote From Rome

TT 248.1

Paul acknowledged that many “visions and revelations” had been given him “of the Lord.” His understanding of the gospel was equal to that of “the very chiefest apostles.” 2 Corinthians 12:1, 11. He had a clear comprehension of “the breadth, and length, and depth, and height” of “the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Ephesians 3:18, 19.

TT 248.2

Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision; some hearers would have misapplied his words. But that which was revealed to him molded the messages that he in later years sent to the churches. He bore a message that ever since has brought strength to the church of God. To believers today this message speaks plainly of dangers that will threaten the church.

TT 248.3

The apostle’s desire for those to whom he addressed his letters was that they should “be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,” but that they should come into “the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:14, 13. Christ, who “loved the church, and gave Himself for it,” would “present it to Himself ... not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing”—a church “holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25, 27.

TT 248.4

In these messages, written with a power not of man but of God, principles are laid down that should be followed in every church, and the way that leads to life eternal is made plain.

TT 249.1

In his letter to “the saints” at Colosse, written while he was a prisoner in Rome, Paul mentions his joy over their steadfastness: “From the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

TT 249.2

There is no limit to the blessings that the children of God may receive. They may go on from strength to strength until they are made “meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.” KJV.

TT 249.3

The apostle exalted Christ as the One by whom God created all things. The hand that sustains the world in space is the hand that was nailed to the cross: “For in Him were all things created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, ... all things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

TT 249.4

The Son of God came to this earth to be “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He knew what it meant to be hungry, thirsty, and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He was tempted and tried as men and women of today are tempted and tried, yet lived a life free from sin.

TT 249.5

Surrounded by the influences of heathenism, the Colossian believers were in danger of being drawn away from the simplicity of the gospel. Paul pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide: “I say this in order that no one may delude you with beguiling speech... . As therefore you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught... . See to it that no one makes a prey of you by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the universe, and not according to Christ.”

TT 250.1

Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise, through whose influence “iniquity” should “abound,” and “the love of many” should “wax cold.” Matthew 24:12. The church would be in more danger from this evil than from the persecution of her enemies. By receiving false teachers, they would open the door to errors by which the enemy would shake the confidence of those newly come to the faith. All that was not in harmony with Christ’s teachings they were to reject.

TT 250.2

As men tried in the days of the apostles by philosophy to destroy faith in the Scriptures, so today, by higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil, because they have turned their minds into channels of speculative belief that bring confusion. The work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, and reconstructing, is destroying faith, robbing God’s Word of power to control and inspire human lives. Spiritualism teaches that desire is the highest law, that license is liberty, and that man is accountable only to himself.

TT 250.3

The follower of Christ will meet with spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. He is to discard all ideas that are not in harmony with Christ’s teaching. He is to regard the Bible as the voice of God speaking directly to him. The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This knowledge works transformation of character. This is the knowledge beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.

TT 250.4

In every generation and in every land, the true foundation for character building has been the same—the principles contained in the Word of God. With the Word the apostles met the false theories of their day, saying, “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid.” 1 Corinthians 3:11.

TT 251.1

In his letter, Paul entreated the Colossian believers not to forget that they must put forth constant effort: “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hid with Christ in God.”

TT 251.2

Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. This change is the miracle of miracles—“Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

TT 251.3

When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; the promise of God has been fulfilled, and the sinner’s transgression has been forgiven. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law and faith toward Christ, who died for man’s justification.

TT 251.4

But the Christian is not to fold his hands, content with that which has been accomplished for him. He will find that all the powers and passions of unregenerate nature are arrayed against him. Each day he must renew his consecration. Old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong, will strive for the mastery, and against these he is to strive in Christ’s strength.

TT 251.5

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”

TT 251.6

The power of a higher, purer life is our great need. The world has too much of our thought, and the kingdom of heaven too little. To reach God’s ideal, the Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection through the grace of Christ is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power. He brings us to His Word. He puts into our mouth a prayer through which we are brought into close contact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. At every step we touch His living power.

TT 252.1

The church at Philippi had sent gifts to Paul by Epaphroditus, whom Paul calls “my brother and fellow worker.” While in Rome, Epaphroditus was sick, “near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.” The believers at Philippi were filled with anxiety regarding Epaphroditus, and he decided to return to them. “He has been longing for you all,” Paul wrote, “and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill, ... for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete your service to me.”

TT 252.2

Paul sent the Philippian believers a letter by him. Of all the churches, Philippi had been the most liberal in supplying Paul’s wants. “Not that I seek the gift; but I seek the fruit which increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more; I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent.”

TT 252.3

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, thankful for your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ... . And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, ... so that you may ... be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”

TT 252.4

Paul’s imprisonment had resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. “What has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to all the rest.”

TT 253.1

There is a lesson for us in this experience. The Lord can bring victory out of what may seem to us defeat. When misfortune or calamity comes, we are ready to charge God with neglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off our usefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping to think that He may be working for our good. Chastisement is a part of His great plan. Under the rod of affliction the Christian may sometimes do more for the Master than when engaged in active service.

TT 253.2

Paul pointed the Philippians to Christ, who, “though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross.”

TT 253.3

“Therefore, my beloved,” Paul continued, “God is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.”

TT 253.4

Paul holds up the standard of perfection and shows how it may be reached: “Work out your own salvation; ... for God is at work in you.” The work of gaining salvation is a joint operation between God and the repentant sinner. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome, but he is wholly dependent on God for success. Without the aid of divine power human effort avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God.

TT 253.5

God wishes us to have self-mastery, but He cannot help us without our consent and cooperation. The divine Spirit works through the faculties given to man. Of ourselves we are not able to bring the desires and inclinations into harmony with the will of God; but if we are “willing to be made willing,” the Saviour will accomplish this for us, “casting down imaginations, ... and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.

TT 254.1

He who would be a well-balanced Christian must give all and do all for Christ. Daily he must learn the meaning of self-surrender. He must study the Word of God, obeying its precepts. Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the final test. And day by day the believer works out before men and angels a sublime experiment, showing what the gospel can do for fallen human beings.

TT 254.2

“I do not consider that I have made it my own,” Paul wrote, “but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

TT 254.3

In all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his high calling. To exalt the cross—this was his all-absorbing motive that inspired his words and acts.

TT 254.4

Though he was a prisoner, Paul was not discouraged. A note of triumph rings through the letters that he wrote from Rome. “Rejoice,” he wrote. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

TT 254.5

“My God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 14, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 14, 1900, par. 11

To you, my brother and sister, and to every member of the family who shall read these words, which I have written after rising at two in the morning, I will say in the words of Paul, “Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. ... And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent: that ye may be sincere and without offense in the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:2, 9-11.]

From Trials to Triumph

Paul’s Example Became a Lasting Influence

TT 116.5

Paul’s labors at Philippi resulted in a church whose membership steadily increased. His willingness to suffer for Christ exerted a lasting influence on the converts. They gave themselves with wholehearted devotion to the cause of their Redeemer. Such was their steadfastness in the faith that Paul declared, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:3-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 48, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 48, 1902, par. 29

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Do all things without murmuring and disputings; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” [Philippians 1:3-6; 2:12-15.]

The Ministry of Healing

Saved by Hope

MH 167.1

“I rejoice that in everything I am of good courage concerning you.” “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;” “being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is right for me to be thus minded on behalf of you all, because I have you in my heart.” “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” “Now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.” Verse 16, A.R.V.; Philippians 1:3-5; 1:6, 7, A.R.V.; 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:8.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 21—In the Regions Beyond

AA 218.4

That this church did not escape persecution is shown by an expression in Paul’s letter to them. He says, “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me.” Yet such was their steadfastness in the faith that he declares, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:29, 30, 3-5.

Radiant Religion

In Praying for Souls, June 6

RRe 159.1

Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:4, 5.

RRe 159.5

“In all my prayers for you all I always pray with a sense of joy.” Philippians 1:4, Moffatt.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 67, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 67, 1897, par. 31

Christ was ever presenting before them the privileges bestowed upon [the] feeble, finite sinful nature of man, and that only through union with Christ could it be restored to healthful growth. The life of the Vine was to become the life of the adopted sapling. He sought to impress upon them that it was a positive necessity for them to understand spiritual things; yes, all mysteries and all knowledge. No longer were they to see through a glass darkly, but face to face. They were to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height; and to know the love of God that passeth knowledge. The same God who had given Jesus to our world is able to perfect them for whom so great a sacrifice has been made, that through His grace they may be complete in Him. “He that hath begun a good work in you, will perform it unto the day of Christ Jesus,” is His promise. [Philippians 1:6.] The work of Christ is concerned in the perfection of all His chosen ones, for they are members of His body, a part of Himself.

In Heavenly Places

A Work of Preparation, December 6

HP 347.1

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.

Our Father Cares

A Work of Preparation, June 28

OFC 191.1

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.

Living by Principle

Feelings

PH048 31.2

Philippians 1:6: Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 177, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 177, 1897, par. 99

Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He gives us unsearchable, inexhaustible, and eternal riches. He who has given us the faculties to enter upon the grand work Christ has laid out for us in His life character, will not only be the Alpha but the Omega of the life work. “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6. “Who will render to every man according to his deeds: to them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life.” Romans 2:6, 7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 276, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, par. 24

“Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in His apparel, travelling in the greatness of His strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.” [Isaiah 63:1.] “Without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] “Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God; but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in the fashion as a man He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father;” “in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” [Philippians 1:6-11; Colossians 1:14, 15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 216, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 216, 1906, par. 20

“Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in His apparel, traveling in the greatness of His strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.” [Isaiah 63:1.] “Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father;” “in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” [Philippians 1:6-11; Colossians 1:14, 15.]

A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White

Texts of Scripture Referred to on Page 8

ExV 37.4

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake. Philippians 1:6, 27-29.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

A Severe Trial

The Fifty Texts Luke 1:20
John 16:15
Acts 2:4
Acts 4:29, 30
Acts 4:31
Matthew 7:6
Matthew 7:7-12
Matthew 7:15
Matthew 24:24
Colossians 2:6, 7
Colossians 2:8
Hebrews 10:35-37
Hebrews 10:38, 39
Hebrews 4:10, 11
Hebrews 4:12
Philippians 1:6
Philippians 1:27-29Philippians 2:13-15
Ephesians 6:10-13
Ephesians 6:14-18
Ephesians 4:32
1 Peter 1:22
John 13:34, 35
2 Corinthians 13:5
1 Corinthians 3:10, 11
1 Corinthians 3:12, 13
Acts 20:28-30
Galatians 1:6-9
Luke 12:3-7
Luke 4:10, 11
2 Corinthians 4:6-9
2 Corinthians 4:17, 18
1 Peter 1:5-7
1 Thessalonians 3:8Mark 16:17, 18
John 9:20-27
John 14:13-15
John 15:7, 8
Mark 1:23-25
Romans 8:38, 39
Revelation 3:7-13
Revelation 14:4, 5
Philippians 3:20
James 5:7, 8
Philippians 3:21
Revelation 14:14-17
Hebrews 4:9
Revelation 21:2
Revelation 14:1
Revelation 22:1-5

Early Writings

Texts Referred to on Preceding Page

EW 26.1

Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.... Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:6, 27-29.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2

Chapter 10—Trials and Victories

2SG 59.2

Luke 1:20; John 16:15; Acts 2:4; 4:29-31; Matthew 7:6-12, 15; 24:24; Colossians 2:6-8; Hebrews 10:35-39; 4:10-12; Philippians 1:6, 27-29; 2:13-15; Ephesians 6:10-18; 4:32; 1 Peter 1:22; John 13:34, 35; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 Corinthians 3:10-13; Acts 20:28-30; Galatians 1:6-9; Luke 12:3-7; 4:10, 11; 2 Corinthians 4:6-9, 17, 18; 1 Peter 1:5-7; 1 Thessalonians 3:8; Mark 16:17, 18; John 9:20-27; 14:13-15; 15:7, 8; Mark 1:23-25; Romans 8:38, 39; Revelation 3:7-13; 14:4, 5; Philippians 3:20; James 5:7, 8; Philippians 3:21; Revelation 14:14-17; Hebrews 4:9; Revelation 21:2; 14:1; 22:1-5.

Life Sketches Manuscript

Some Erroneous Theories

Luke 1:202 Corinthians 4:6-9, 17, 18John 16:151 Peter 1:5-7Acts 2:4, 429-311 Thessalonians 3:8Matthew 7:6-12, 15; 24:24Mark 15:17, 18Colossians 2:6-8John 9:20-27; 14:13-15; 15:7, 8 Hebrews 10:35-39; 4:10-12 Mark 1:23-25Philippians 1:6, 27-29; 2:13-15 Romans 8:38, 39Ephesians 6:10-18; 4:32 Revelation 3:7-13; 14:4, 51 Peter 1:22Philippians 3:20John 13:34, 35James 5:7, 82 Corinthians 13:5Philippians 3:211 Corinthians 3:10-13Revelation 14:14-17Acts 20:28-30Hebrews 4:9Galatians 1:6-9Revelation 21:2; 14:1; 22:1-5Luke 12:3-7; 10, 11

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 2, 1884

4LtMs, Ms 2, 1884, par. 1

Philippians 1:8-11. A constant advancement, an intelligent advancement in the knowledge of Christ, “Filled with fruits of righteousness”—there is a higher standard for us to reach. We are not making all that advancement that it is our duty or our privilege to make. How is it that we use the talent that God has given us in temporal matters and not in His service? Ought we not to have greater interest in eternal things than in those things which concern our temporal wants?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 118, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 118, 1897, par. 8

I cannot bring to you peace and joy, and love of Christ. But Christ Himself will give it you if you will seek Him with all your heart. “For God is my record how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:8-11.] In the night season, I have been troubled on your account, and the Lord said, “Write the things I shall give thee.” I have done this. Will you heed the light given you of the Lord, and receive encouragement to be a faithful doer of the Word?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 318, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, par. 18

God and Christ alone know what the souls of men have cost. For our sakes the Son of God became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich with eternal riches. His love is without a parallel. It has bought for us immeasurable grace. By the sacrifice of Christ for us, the richest gifts of heaven are offered us. Then let us break every yoke but that of Christ. In our sanitarium and school work, let us come up on a higher platform. Let us look unto Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith. Let us pray in faith for large measure of the Holy Spirit. “And this I pray, that your love may abound more and more in knowledge, and in all judgment.” [Philippians 1:9.]

That I May Know Him

Growth and Fruit Bearing, June 7

TMK 164.1

That your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. Philippians 1:9, 10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 13, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 13, 1902, par. 5

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence, till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:9-11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 55, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 55, 1903, par. 7

I entreat those who claim to believe that Christ is their personal Saviour to practice His teachings. Shall we not, from this time, believe in Christ, and show our faith by obeying His words? Will not those who proclaim the gospel to sinners believe the gospel, and by their obedience to every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, testify to its power? Will not those who preach Christ live the Christ life? God calls upon those who have the light to walk in the light. Then their souls will be all light in the Lord. True Christians find their happiness in obeying the words of the Saviour. They place no dependence upon worldly maxims. Their whole dependence is placed upon the Source of all power. By beholding Christ, they become changed. Of what character, then, will be their speech? The following Scripture shows: “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:9-11.]

18LtMs, Ms 55, 1903, par. 9

Bear in mind, my brethren, that here in this world we are being tested and tried. God calls upon the presidents of our conferences, upon our ministers, and upon those in positions of trust in our institutions to reveal clearly to the world the miracle-working power of God, to show that they are true followers of Christ, “filled with the fruits of righteousness.” [Verse 11.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 57, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 57, 1907, par. 12

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:9-11.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Conditions of Christian Growth, October 4

AG 285.1

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; ... being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11.

Our Father Cares

Conditions of Christian Growth, August 24

OFC 248.1

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; ... being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

A Solemn Warning

2TT 16.1

Brethren and sisters, I entreat you to “examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” To maintain the warmth and purity of Christian love requires a constant supply of the grace of Christ. Have you employed every means that your “love may abound yet more and more,” “that ye may approve things that are excellent,” and be filled with the fruits of righteousness “which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God”? Philippians 1:9-11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 86, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 86, 1896, par. 6

Neglect not to bind up, with your reproof, words of encouragement. Be cheerful, but not light and trifling; be faithful; pray for discernment, for a wholesome, Christlike spirit. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, said, “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that you may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the praise and glory of God.” [Philippians 1:9-11.]

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

Standing On Guard

CET 230.2

“This I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11.

CET 230.3

“Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: ... stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:27-29.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 134, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 134, 1903, par. 7

“This I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:9-11.]

18LtMs, Ms 134, 1903, par. 8

“Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ; ... stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries; which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” [Verses 27-29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 239, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 239, 1903, par. 17

“Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ; ... stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries; which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” [Philippians 1:9-11, 27-29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 35, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 35, 1908, par. 34

“‘This I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.’ Philippians 1:9-11.

23LtMs, Ms 35, 1908, par. 35

“‘Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ; ... stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries; which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.’ Philippians 1:27-29.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 7—A View of the Conflict

8T 43.1

“This I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11.

8T 43.2

“Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: ...stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Verses 27-29.

With God at Dawn

The Transformed Life Is Sincere, June 27

WGD 180.1

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ. Philippians 1:10.

God’s Amazing Grace

“Fulness of God,” October 31

AG 312.3

Every means of grace should be diligently improved that the love of God may abound in the soul more and more, “that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness” (Philippians 1:10, 11). Your Christian life must take on vigorous and stalwart forms. You can attain to the high standard set before you in the Scriptures, and you must if you would be children of God. You cannot stand still; you must either advance or retrograde. You must have spiritual knowledge, that you “may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ,” that you may “be filled with all the fulness of God.” ...

In Heavenly Places

“Without Offence,” February 24

HP 61.1

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:10, 11.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Christian Growth

2TT 96.4

Every means of grace should be diligently improved that the love of God may abound in the soul more and more, “that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness.” Philippians 1:10, 11. Your Christian life must take on vigorous and stalwart forms. You can attain to the high standard set before you in the Scriptures, and you must if you would be children of God. You cannot stand still; you must either advance or retrograde. You must have spiritual knowledge, that you “may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ,” that you may “be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:18, 19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 22a, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 22a, 1889, par. 14

Grasp the promises of God. Press close to the bleeding side of Jesus. Encourage tenderness and compassion. Improve every means of grace, that your love may abound more and more, that you may have wisdom from above, that you “may approve things that are excellent, ... being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:10, 11.] Your present and future usefulness depend on your living connection with God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 66, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 66, 1897, par. 3

“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [John 15:7.] The indwelling of the words of Christ makes all men one with Him. He has the mind of Christ, the attributes of Christ, and there is perfect harmony between his will and that of the Father. Each will evidence his discipleship by his obedience to that Word. “Herein is my Father glorified,” says Christ, “that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” [Verse 8.] And again, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruit of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” [Philippians 1:10, 11.]

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

Mr No. 731—The Law in Galatians

9MR 226.2

“Now brethren, I have nothing to say, no burden in regard to the law in Galatians. This matter looks to me of minor consequence in comparison with the spirit you have brought into your faith. It is exactly of the same piece that was manifested by the Jews in reference to the work and mission of Jesus Christ. The most convincing testimony that we can bear to others that we have the truth is the spirit which attends the advocacy of that truth. If it sanctifies the heart of the receiver, if it makes him gentle, kind, forbearing, true and Christlike, then he will give some evidence of the fact that he has the genuine truth. But if he acts as did the Jews when their opinions and ideas were crossed, then we certainly cannot receive such testimony, for it does not produce the fruits of righteousness.” [See Philippians 1:11]—Letter 83, 1890, pp. 5-6. (To Willie and Mary White, March 13, 1890.)

With God at Dawn

The Transformed Life Bears Fruit, June 28

WGD 181.1

Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:11.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 12—The French Reformation

GC 219.2

As in apostolic days, persecution had “fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” Philippians 1:12. Driven from Paris and Meaux, “they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.” Acts 8:4. And thus the light found its way into many of the remote provinces of France.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 12—The French Reformation

GC88 219.1

As in apostolic days, persecution had “fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel. [Philippians 1:12.] Driven from Paris and Meaux, “they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the Word.” [Acts 8:4.] And thus the light found its way into many of the remote provinces of France.

From Here to Forever

Berquin at the Stake

HF 137.5

As in apostolic days, persecution had “fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” Philippians 1:12. Driven from Paris and Meaux, “they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.” Acts 8:4. And thus the light found its way into many remote provinces of France.

From Trials to Triumph

Paul’s Afflictions Do Not Hinder the Gospel

TT 245.2

By what means was a footing gained for Christianity where it seemed impossible? Paul ascribed to his imprisonment his success in winning converts from Nero’s household. He assured the Philippians, “I want you to know, brethren, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” Philippians 1:12, RSV.

TT 245.4

Before the close of two years’ imprisonment, Paul was able to say, “My bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places.” Philippians 1:13. Among those who sent greetings to the Philippians he mentions “they that are of Caesar’s household.” Philippians 4:22.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 44—Caesar’s Household

AA 463.2

And by what means was an entrance achieved and a firm footing gained for Christianity where even its admission seemed impossible? In his epistle to the Philippians, Paul ascribed to his own imprisonment his success in winning converts to the faith from Nero’s household. Fearful lest it might be thought that his afflictions had impeded the progress of the gospel, he assured them: “I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel.” Philippians 1:12.

AA 464.1

Not by Paul’s sermons, but by his bonds, was the attention of the court attracted to Christianity. It was as a captive that he broke from so many souls the bonds that held them in the slavery of sin. Nor was this all. He declared: “Many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.” Philippians 1:14.

AA 464.3

Before the close of that two years’ imprisonment, Paul was able to say, “My bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places,” and among those who sent greetings to the Philippians he mentions chiefly them “that are of Caesar’s household.” Verse 13; 4:22.

Reflecting Christ

Meekness Under Trial, December 11

RC 359.1

Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. Philippians 1:14, N.I.V.

RC 359.3

Before the close of that two years’ imprisonment, Paul was able to say, “My bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places” (Philippians 1:13), and among those who sent greetings to the Philippians he mentions chiefly them “that are of Caesar’s household” (chap. 4:22).

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you.”—Matthew 5:11.

MB 33.3

How often this result has been seen in the history of God’s messengers! When the noble and eloquent Stephen was stoned to death at the instigation of the Sanhedrin council, there was no loss to the cause of the gospel. The light of heaven that glorified his face, the divine compassion breathed in his dying prayer, were as a sharp arrow of conviction to the bigoted Sanhedrist who stood by, and Saul, the persecuting Pharisee, became a chosen vessel to bear the name of Christ before Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. And long afterward Paul the aged wrote from his prison house at Rome: “Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife: ... not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds.... Notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached.” Philippians 1:15-18. Through Paul’s imprisonment the gospel was spread abroad, and souls were won for Christ in the very palace of the Caesars. By the efforts of Satan to destroy it, the “incorruptible” seed of the word of God, “which liveth and abideth forever” (1 Peter 1:23), is sown in the hearts of men; through the reproach and persecution of His children the name of Christ is magnified and souls are saved.

MB 35.1

It was this joy that filled the hearts of Paul and Silas when they prayed and sang praises to God at midnight in the Philippian dungeon. Christ was beside them there, and the light of His presence irradiated the gloom with the glory of the courts above. From Rome, Paul wrote, unmindful of his fetters as he saw the spread of the gospel, “I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.” Philippians 1:18. And the very words of Christ upon the mount are re-echoed in Paul’s message to the Philippian church, in the midst of their persecutions, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4.

Radiant Religion

Lifting Up Christ Before Men, July 12

RRe 195.1

What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. Philippians 1:18.

To Be Like Jesus

Temperance in All Things Is Essential, October 26

BLJ 315.1

According to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. Philippians 1:20, NKJV.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 60—The Law of the New Kingdom

DA 549.3

The one who stands nearest to Christ will be he who on earth has drunk most deeply of the spirit of His self-sacrificing love,—love that “vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, ... seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil” (1 Corinthians 13:4, 5),—love that moves the disciple, as it moved our Lord, to give all, to live and labor and sacrifice, even unto death, for the saving of humanity. This spirit was made manifest in the life of Paul. He said, “For to me to live is Christ;” for his life revealed Christ to men; “and to die is gain,”—gain to Christ; death itself would make manifest the power of His grace, and gather souls to Him. “Christ shall be magnified in my body,” he said, “whether it be by life or by death.” Philippians 1:21, 20.

Our High Calling

Crowns for the Faithful, December 23

OHC 363.5

Paul was a living example of what every true Christian should be. He lived for God’s glory.... “For me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21.50SDA Bible Commentary 6:1112.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 13—Days of Preparation

AA 128.1

Throughout his later ministry, Paul never lost sight of the Source of his wisdom and strength. Hear him, years afterward, still declaring, “For to me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21. And again: “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, ... that I may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings.” Philippians 3:8-10.

From Trials to Triumph

Paul’s “University” in the Desert

TT 68.2

Paul never lost sight of the Source of wisdom and strength. Hear him declare, “For to me to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21. “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things.” Philippians 3:8, RSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 61, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 61, 1897, par. 5

You must not feel that you are above your brethren. You injure the cause of God, and the impression [is] left upon minds that there is no unity, and that the truth we cherish does not make us wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Your feelings will flash out sometimes unexpectedly, and you injure your soul, you hurt the heart of Christ, you give a wrong impression to the minds of those who are in any connection with you. Can you say with the apostle, “For me to live is Christ”? [Philippians 1:21.] That is, Christ is the Author of your spiritual life. His grace is the support of that life, and Christ’s glory the great object for which you are laboring. These words possess a depth of meaning which is the mystery of godliness, better experienced than explained.

12LtMs, Lt 61, 1897, par. 7

There is a work that you can unitedly do for the Master; but both of you must be willing to bear contradiction, as did your Master, against yourself. Learn in the school of Christ His meekness and lowliness of heart. He is your Pattern. You are both of high temper; but if this temper is molded after the divine Spirit, it will not be your hindrance, your stumbling stone. Is Christ your life? Are your selfish traits of character cut away from your life? Is it His glory alone that is revealed in you and shining in you? Are the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness mellowing your whole heart, bringing your whole spirit, soul, and body into subjection to Jesus Christ? Have you been quickened together with Christ? Do you realize that you are obtaining the mastery at all times, and under all circumstances in your home life? “For me to live is Christ.” [Philippians 1:21.] Are you representing Him in your forbearance, in your patience, in your true Christian courtesy and your tenderness? Are you learning to be like Jesus?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 41, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 13

“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” [Verse 6.] When the apostle Paul, through the revelation of Christ, was converted from a persecutor to a Christian, he declared that he was as one born out of due time. [1 Corinthians 15:8.] “For me to live is Christ,” he declared. [Philippians 1:21.] This is the most perfect interpretation in a few words in all the Scriptures, of what it means to be a Christian. This is the whole truth of the gospel. Paul understood that which many seem unable to comprehend. How intensely in earnest he was. His words show that his mind was centered on Christ, that his whole life was bound up with his Christ. Christ was the author, the source, and the support of his life.

Radiant Religion

Imparts Joy to Others, June 4

RRe 157.1

Having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith. Philippians 1:25.

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

MR No. 1002—The Baker Letter

13MR 25.1

Please read and apply most earnestly and thoroughly, for your own benefit, the following Scriptures. [Philippians 1:25-28, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 8, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 33

Please read and apply most earnestly and thoroughly, for your own benefit the following Scriptures: “And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all; for your furtherance and joy of faith, that your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me from my coming to you again. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God!” [Philippians 1:25-28.]

Radiant Religion

Contribute to Others’ Happiness, July 18

RRe 201.1

That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. Philippians 1:26.

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

MR No. 1506—Stay Away From Political Strife; The Fruit of True Conversion

21MR 21.3

The conversation of those who are converted to God will not be the same as before their conversion. The words of the apostle Paul to the Philippians are, “Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” [Philippians 1:27].

The Upward Look

Stand Fast in the Faith, February 24

UL 69.1

Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel. Philippians 1:27.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 11, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 10

The conversation of those who are converted to God will not be the same as before their conversion. The words of the apostle Paul to the Philippians are, “Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” [Philippians 1:27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 100, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 100, 1898, par. 15

“Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ; that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of the gospel.” “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye my joy that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man of his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” [Philippians 1:27; 2:1-4.]

Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years: 1905-1915 (vol. 6)

Ellen White’s Shortest Testimony Arrives

6BIO 128.6

Campbell said, “Yes,” and reached out for the telegram addressed to him. Opening it he found this message: “Philippians 1:27, 28. (Signed) Ellen G. White.”

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

The Example of Christ

3TT 422.3

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 1:27-29; 2:1-13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 7, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 7, 1895, par. 19

There is a wealth of instruction for us in Matthew 18. And let us give heed to the words of Paul to the Philippian brethren: “Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel: and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.” [Philippians 1:27-29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 89, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 89, 1898, par. 25

The apostle Paul charges us: “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye my joy that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given, in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.” [Philippians 2:1-5; 1:27-29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 97, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 97, 1907, par. 13

“Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ,” the apostle Paul exhorts, “that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries; which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” [Philippians 1:27-29.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1374—Bear Witness to Christ Before the World; How to Conduct the Christian Warfare

19MR 107.2

There is a wealth of instruction for us in Matthew 18. And let us give heed to the words of Paul to the Philippian brethren: “Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them as evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake” [Philippians 1:27-29].—Letter 7, 1895.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

The Example of Christ

9T 275.1

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 1:27-29; 2:1-13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 24, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 24, 1906, par. 8

“Only let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ; that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; and in nothing terrified by your adversaries, which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake; having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.” [Philippians 1:27-30.] Please read the second chapter of Philippians.

Conflict and Courage

In Prison for Christ’s Sake, September 28

CC 277.1

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake. Philippians 1:29.

Conflict and Courage

The Highest Honor, September 29

CC 278.5

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as coworkers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake” (Philippians 1:29). And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.46Ibid., 223-225.

Help In Daily Living

True Greatness

HDL 18.1

Of all the gifts that heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 22—Imprisonment and Death of John

DA 224.5

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

The Ministry of Healing

A Lesson From the Life of Moses

MH 478.2

Of all the gifts that heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29.

From Heaven With Love

The Reason Christ Did Not Deliver John

HLv 145.1

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the purpose they are fulfilling as coworkers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29. Of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.