EGW WritingsPsalms 15

My Life Today

Truth Transforms, September 18

ML 265.1

Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. Psalm 15:1, 2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 116, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 116, 1898, par. 25

“Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God.” [Verse 8.] The psalmist says: “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.” [Psalm 15:1, 2; 24:3-5.]

Counsels for the Church

Think Well of All Men

CCh 174.3

When we listen to a reproach against our brother, we take up that reproach. To the question, “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?” the psalmist answered, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” Psalm 15:1-3.

In Heavenly Places

Educating the Tongue, June 17

HP 175.4

The great responsibility bound up in the use of the gift of speech is plainly made known in the Word of God. “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned” (Matthew 12:37), Christ declared. And the psalmist asks, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour” (Psalm 15:1-3).27The Review and Herald, May 12, 1910.

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

MR No. 1364—Severe Reproof for Faultfinding Spirit and Carelessness in Dress

19MR 33.1

“The tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! ... The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.... The tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:5, 6, 8). “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor” [Psalm 15:1-3].

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Think Well of All Men

2TT 20.1

When we listen to a reproach against our brother, we take up that reproach. To the question, “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?” the psalmist answered, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” Psalm 15:1-3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 4, 1861

1LtMs, Lt 4, 1861, par. 9

“The tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. ... The tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:5, 6, 8. “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” Psalm 15:1-3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 15, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 15, 1888, par. 12

There is hope for the erring, for it is not too late for wrongs to be righted. The Psalmist inquired, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that back-biteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” [Psalm 15:1-3.] Then should we not fear to be found sowing seeds of distrust, of jealousy, of enmity? Shall we not be afraid to transgress the Word of God?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 109, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 109, 1906, par. 33

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” [Psalm 15:1-3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 167, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 167, 1898, par. 30

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is condemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.” [Psalm 15:1-4.]

Counsels on Health

A Lesson From Solomon’s Fall

CH 583.1

Remember Solomon. Among many nations there was no king like him, beloved of his God. But he fell. He was led from God and became corrupt, through the indulgence of lustful passions. This is the prevailing sin of this age, and its progress is fearful. Professed Sabbathkeepers are not clean. There are those who profess to believe the truth who are corrupt at heart. God will prove them, and their folly and sin shall be made manifest. None but the pure and lowly can dwell in His presence. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” Psalm 24:3, 4. “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Treatment of the Erring

2TT 258.3

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15. Here the backbiter is excluded from abiding in the tabernacle of God and dwelling in the holy hill of Zion. He that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor cannot receive the approval of God.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Judge Not

3TT 229.3

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Ms 4, 1873

2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, par. 4

After taking refreshment we opened the meeting with singing and I again pleaded earnestly with God for His presence and His power in the meeting. I felt that the Lord indeed heard me pray. Notwithstanding I suffered much pain in my face and head, the Lord enabled me to rise above it all and speak with great freedom and power to the people from Psalms 15, dwelling especially upon the third verse, showing the sin of gossip and talk of our brethren’s faults. While we are so busily engaged in seeing our brethren’s faults we neglect our own souls, and poisonous weeds are flourishing in the garden of our hearts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1878

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 18

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle; who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.] Here the backbiter is excluded from abiding in the tabernacle of God and dwelling in the holy hill of Zion. He that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor cannot receive the approval of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1880

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 18

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 66, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 66, 1886, par. 32

Very busy today in packing up and preparing to leave on the morrow. I became very weary, but some company came, and I spoke in the evening to the church from Philippians 2; Psalm 15. I presented before the church the necessity of a thorough change in their characters before God could acknowledge them as His children. I urged upon them the necessity of order in the church. They must have the mind which dwelt in Jesus in order to conduct themselves aright in the church of God. I urged upon them the importance of a correct observing of the Sabbath. The people were called forward, and many good testimonies were borne. Some confessions of wrong were made, but the work was but just begun in the church. If it continues to go forward, then there will be a hearty repentance and shame and confusion of face before God for the unrighteous course that has been pursued toward the brethren and sisters. With this meeting my labors closed in Christiania.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 26, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 26, 1886, par. 1

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 14, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 14, 1889, par. 24

“Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.” [Psalm 24:3, 4.] “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 8a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 8a, 1890, par. 43

For Christ’s sake, for your soul’s sake, I entreat you, do not talk of the deficiencies of your brethren! Go to work for yourself. Do not any longer grieve the Holy Spirit of God. The question is asked, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” And the answer is, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 9, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, par. 14

Always kind, courteous, ever taking the part, of the oppressed, whether Jew or Gentile, Christ was beloved by all. By His perfect life and character He answered the question asked in the 15th Psalm: “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” [Verses 1, 2.] In childhood and youth His course was such that when engaged in work as a teacher, He could say to His disciples, “If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.]

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

Cases to Be Investigated Carefully; Patience and Kindness to Be Shown the Erring

15MR 137.1

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved” [Psalm 15:1-5]. Here the backbiter is excluded from abiding in the tabernacle of God and dwelling in the holy hill of Zion. He that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor can not receive the approval of God....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 126, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 126, 1897, par. 13

Our work is to stop surmising evil of our brethren. We should seek ever to press together, and thus fulfill the longing of Christ to see His chosen people love one another as He loves them. “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is condemned, but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.] Notice particularly the response to the question, and the answer given in verses two and three.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 186, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 186, 1897, par. 13

Our work is to stop surmising evil of our brethren. We should seek to press together, and thus fulfill the longing of Christ to see His chosen people love one another as He loves them. “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle?” the psalmist asks; “Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly” is the response, “and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor. ... In whose eyes a vile person is condemned, and he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 98a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 34

When any man or woman listens to a charge against a brother or sister, this sin is defined as backbiting. “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle, who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil with his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor, in whose eyes a vile person is condemned; but he honored them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh a reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 139, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 139, 1898, par. 32

The question is asked by David in sacred song, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” The answer comes with powerful melody, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is condemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 34, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 5

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor, in whose eyes a vile person is condemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not, he that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 41, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 41, 1899, par. 7

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 32, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 32, 1902, par. 17

“Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 63, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 63, 1903, par. 23

The words of the Psalmist are strikingly definite: “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.” You may not have originated the reproach, but even taking it up brings condemnation upon you. “In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 178, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 178, 1903, par. 3

Psalms 15 and 16. Here we have defined the characters of that class who shall possess the character of Christ and represent that character in the world. In 2 Peter (chapter 1) we have plainly defined who shall be of that class who shall have the eternal-life insurance policy. Verse 10. Here is practical, spiritual work to be done by diligently obeying God’s commandments. The promises of God, taken hold of through faith in the One who stands back of the promise—Jesus Christ—will have an all-powerful influence in making men who have faith like God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 48, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 48, 1903, par. 10

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 6 [Nos. 347-418]

All-Day Meetings

6MR 291.4

Notwithstanding I suffered much pain in my face and head, the Lord enabled me to rise above it all and speak with great freedom and power to the people from Psalm 15....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 94, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 94, 1904, par. 4

God hates all such work. He will call to account every man engaged in this kind of business. “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle; and who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” [Psalm 15:1-5.]

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

MR No. 983—Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties

12MR 278.3

[Psalm 15 quoted.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1444—Rebuke for Self-seeking and Self-exaltation; Warning Against Criticizing Church Leaders

20MR 97.2

For Christ’s sake, for your soul’s sake, I entreat you, do not talk of the deficiencies of your brethren! Go to work for yourself. Do not any longer grieve the Holy Spirit of God. The question is asked, “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?” And the answer is, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved” (Psalm 15).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 15—A Neglected Warning

8T 84.3

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 2—Design for Communication

VSS 19.2

The great responsibility bound up in the use of the gift of speech is plainly made known by the Word of God. “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned,” Christ declared. And the psalmist asks, “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved” [Psalm 15:1-5].

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

Chapter 8—A Neglected Warning

PH151 45.1

“Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honored them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 15.

Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887

A Final Service With the Church

EGWE 206.1

Just to be sure the point was not missed, she included Psalm 15, as well. The psalm asks who will abide in the tabernacle of the Lord and the answer is: “He that backbiteth not with his tongue, ... nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour” (verse 3).

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1097—The True Sabbath versus the False Sabbath; an Appeal for Total Commitment”

14MR 95.1

God is weary of professional falseness and hollow hypocrisy. “And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” What grand words, how cheering and uplifting. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully,” “he that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness, and keepeth the truth in his heart,” “he shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation” [Psalm 24:3-5; 15:2].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 7a, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, par. 19

God is weary of professional falseness and hollow hypocrisy. “And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:5.] What grand words, how cheering and uplifting. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart: who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully,” “he that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness, and keepeth the truth in his heart,” “he shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.” [Psalm 24:3-5; 15:2.]

Education

Chapter 26—Methods of Teaching

Ed 235.6

In Scripture, backbiters are classed with “haters of God,” with “inventors of evil things,” with those who are “without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful,” “full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity.” It is “the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death.” Romans 1:30, 31, 29, 32. He whom God accounts a citizen of Zion is he that “speaketh the truth in his heart;” “that backbiteth not with his tongue,” “nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.” Psalm 15:2, 3.

Education

Honest Business Dealings

Ed 141.4

“He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.... He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not;” “he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, ... and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil; he shall dwell on high: ... bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure. Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off.” Psalm 15:2-4; Isaiah 33:15-17.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 1

The Minister’s Relationship to God’s Word

1SAT 76.2

Here is my family that will be sanctified because of my right course of action. If I have spoken defiling words, if guile has passed my lips, if I have been peevish and cross, then I shall lie against the truth which I claim to believe. Therefore I will not be on that side of the question at all. I will have my mouth clean and my tongue sanctified. I will have my heart sanctified that I shall not take up a rumor against my brother, because I am told in the Word of God that he that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor shall not dwell in the hill of the Lord. [Psalm 15:3] Therefore, I must have clean hands and a pure heart, for it is they that shall stand in the hill of the Lord. Now, I want to be of that number that shall stand in the hill of the Lord. It does not make one whit of difference with my character whether anyone shall think ill of me or think good of me. It does not affect me, but it will affect them. May God help us that we may come up to that very place where we can appreciate these things.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 13, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 52

Here is my family that will be sanctified because of my right course of action. If I have spoken defiling words, if guile has passed my lips, if I have been peevish and cross, then I shall lie against the truth which I claim to believe. Therefore I will not be on that side of the question at all. I will have my mouth clean and my tongue sanctified. I will have my heart sanctified that I shall not take up a rumor against my brother, because I am told in the Word of God that he that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor shall not dwell in the hill of the Lord. Psalm 15:3. Therefore, I must have clean hands and a pure heart, for it is they that shall stand in the hill of the Lord. Now I want to be of that number that shall stand in the hill of the Lord. It does not make one whit of difference with my character whether anyone shall think ill of me or think good of me. It does not affect me, but it will affect them. May God help us that we may come up to that very place where we can appreciate these things.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 47—League With the Gibeonites

PP 506.1

Great was the indignation of the Israelites as they learned the deception that had been practiced upon them. And this was heightened when, after three days’ journey, they reached the cities of the Gibeonites, near the center of the land. “All the congregation murmured against the princes;” but the latter refused to break the treaty, though secured by fraud, because they had “sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel.” “And the children of Israel smote them not.” The Gibeonites had pledged themselves to renounce idolatry, and accept the worship of Jehovah; and the preservation of their lives was not a violation of God’s command to destroy the idolatrous Canaanites. Hence the Hebrews had not by their oath pledged themselves to commit sin. And though the oath had been secured by deception, it was not to be disregarded. The obligation to which one’s word is pledged—if it do not bind him to perform a wrong act—should be held sacred. No consideration of gain, of revenge, or of self-interest can in any way affect the inviolability of an oath or pledge. “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord.” Proverbs 12:22. He that “shall ascend into the hill of the Lord,” and “stand in His holy place,” is “he that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.” Psalm 24:3; 15:4.

From Eternity Past

Chapter 47—A Canaanite Tribe Deceives Israel

EP 359.1

The indignation of the Israelites heightened when, after three days’ journey, they reached the cities of the Gibeonites near the center of the land. But the princes refused to break the treaty, though secured by fraud, because they had “sworn unto them by the Lord God of Israel.” “And the children of Israel smote them not.” The Gibeonites had pledged themselves to renounce idolatry and accept the worship of Jehovah, and the preservation of their lives was not a violation of God’s command to destroy the idolatrous Canaanites. Though the oath had been secured by deception, it was not to be disregarded. No consideration of gain, of revenge, or self-interest can in any way affect the inviolability of an oath or pledge. He that “shall ascend into the hill of the Lord,” and “stand in His holy place,” is “he that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.” Psalm 24:3; 15:4.

Education

Chapter 25—Education and Character

Ed 229.3

Here is the only safeguard for individual integrity, for the purity of the home, the well-being of society, or the stability of the nation. Amidst all life’s perplexities and dangers and conflicting claims the one 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.” Psalm 19:8; 15:5.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 5—Solomon’s Repentance

PK 83.1

It is as true now as when the words were spoken to Israel of obedience to His commandments: “This is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations.” Deuteronomy 4:6. Here is the only safeguard for individual integrity, for the purity of the home, the well-being of society, or the stability of the nation. Amidst all life’s perplexities and dangers and conflicting claims, the one 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.” Psalm 19:8; 15:5.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 45—Written From Rome

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.

From Splendor to Shadow

Counsel to Youths

SS 43.2

It is as true now as when the words were spoken to Israel of obedience to God’s commandments: “This is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations.” Deuteronomy 4:6. Here is the only safeguard for individual integrity, the purity of the home, or the stability of the nation. “The statutes of the Lord are right,” and “he that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalm 19:8; 15:5.

Homeward Bound

Keep Your Eyes on Christ, January 28

HB 43.5

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.” (Psalm 19:8; 15:5.) It was with the word of God that the apostles met the false theories of their day.—The Acts of the Apostles, 474, 475.