EGW WritingsRevelation 14
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 5
Read Revelation 14 in the BibleRevelation 14:1-3
Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
The Minister’s Relationship to God’s Word
1SAT 72.2
A transformation has taken place, and you are a different man. You are not the same passionate man that you used to be. You are not the same worldly man that you were. You are not the man that was giving way to lust and evil passions, evil surmisings and evil speakings. You are not this man at all, because a transformation has taken place. What is it? The image of Christ reflected in you. Then you are bearing in view that there is a company to stand by and by on Mount Zion, and you want to be one of that company, and you are determined that you will form a part of that company. Let me read: [Revelation 14:1-3, quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 13, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 13, 1888, par. 40
A transformation has taken place, and you are a different man. You are not the same passionate man that you used to be. You are not the same worldly man that you were. You are not the man that was giving way to the lust and evil passions, evil surmisings, and evil speakings. You are not this man at all because a transformation has taken place. What is it?—the image of Christ reflected in you. Then you are bearing in view that there is a company to stand by and by on Mount Zion, and you want to be one of that company, and you are determined that you will form a part of that company. Let me read: “And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps. And they sang as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders, and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand which were redeemed from the earth.” [Revelation 14:1-3.]Revelation 14:1-4
From Trials to Triumph
When God’s People Will Be the Majority
TT 308.6
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. In this world they served God with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name “in their foreheads.” Christ welcomes them as His children, saying, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21.TT 309.1
“These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” Revelation 14:4. But all who follow the Lamb in heaven must first follow Him on earth, not fretfully or capriciously, but in loving, willing obedience, as the flock follows the shepherd. “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Verse 5.Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1097—The True Sabbath versus the False Sabbath; an Appeal for Total Commitment”
14MR 92.2
Satan, who was expelled from heaven, is leading the world, blindfolded by his sophistry, in the same way that he led the angels who accepted his theology before a “Thus saith the Lord.” Already the churches are naked and without a covering. Like the archdeceiver they are without excuse, for they have the Word of God, plain and clear and pointed. While they would rein up the faithful and loyal subjects of the kingdom of God, depriving them of their liberty of conscience, bringing them before magistrates and judges, and pronouncing sentence against them, delivering them into prison, putting them into the chain gang and even condemning them to death, they themselves before the universe are showing determined and obstinate contempt of the laws of the eternal Jehovah. [Revelation 14:1-4, quoted.]Revelation 14:1-5
Homeward Bound
The 144,000, December 12
HB 377.1
Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written on their foreheads.—Revelation 14:1.HB 377.2
Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire—so resplendent is it with the glory of God—are gathered the company that have “gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.” With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, “having the harps of God,” they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great thunder, “the voice of harpers harping with their harps.” And they sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no one can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” (Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.) “These are they which came out of great tribulation;” they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault” before God. “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.” They have seen the earth wasted with famine and pestilence, the sun having power to scorch the inhabitants with great heat, and they themselves have endured suffering, hunger, and thirst. But “they shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” (Revelation 7:14-17.) . . .Maranatha
The One Hundred Forty-four Thousand, November 16
Mar 328.1
I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. Revelation 14:1.Mar 328.3
None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5. “These are they which came out of great tribulation;” they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault” before God. “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.”The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 57—The Revelation
AA 590.4
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. In this world their minds were consecrated to God; they served Him with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name “in their foreheads.” “And they shall reign for ever and ever.” Revelation 22:5. They do not go in and out as those who beg a place. They are of that number to whom Christ says, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” He welcomes them as His children, saying, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:34, 21.AA 591.1
“These are they which follow the Lamb withersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 14:4. The vision of the prophet pictures them as standing on Mount Zion, girt for holy service, clothed in white linen, which is the righteousness of the saints. But all who follow the Lamb in heaven must first have followed Him on earth, not fretfully or capriciously, but in trustful, loving, willing obedience, as the flock follows the shepherd.AA 591.2
“I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne: ... and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.... In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Verses 2-5.The Home Missionary
November 1, 1893
HM November 1, 1893, par. 11
Of the loyal and true, who do not bow to the decrees of earthly rulers against the authority of the King of heaven, the Revelator says, “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Read Revelation 14:1-3, 5; Revelation 15:2-4.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 7a, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, par. 13
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping, with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” [Revelation 14:1-4.]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.]Heaven
Chapter 5—Christ’s Second Coming
Hvn 51.1
None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5. “These are they which came out of great tribulation;” they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault” before God. “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1891, par. 25
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Zion, and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb withersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first-fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 136, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 136, 1899, par. 37
“And I heard a voice from heaven as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder; and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps; and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and before the elders; and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. ... These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These are they which were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 64, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 64, 1903, par. 15
“And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder; and I heard the voices of harpers harping with many harps, and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song, but the hundred and forty and four thousand which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 354, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, par. 4
To John was given a view of Christ in heaven. “I looked,” he says, “and lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Zion, and with Him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having the Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of great thunder; and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps. And they sang as it were a new song before the throne and before the four beasts and the elders. And no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which are not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]Heaven
Chapter 19—The Music of Heaven
Hvn 179.1
The 144,000 Sing the Song of Their Experience—Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire—so resplendent is it with the glory of God—are gathered the company that have “gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.” With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, “having the harps of God,” they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great thunder, “the voice of harpers harping with their harps.” And they sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.—The Great Controversy, 648, 649.Last Day Events
Chapter 18—The Seven Last Plagues and the Righteous (The Great Time of Trouble, Part 2)
LDE 268.4
They sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song, for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb” (Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5.) “These are they which came out of great tribulation”; they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments.—The Great Controversy, 648, 649 (1911).Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
Satan’s Efforts to Destroy the Sabbath Memorial of the Creation
19MR 244.2
Paul writes: [2 Thessalonians 2:3-12, quoted]. In Revelation we read concerning Satan: [Revelation 13:13-17; 14:1-5; Revelation 16:13-15; 19:1-9, 19, 20; Revelation 20:12-15, quoted].The Great Controversy
Chapter 40—God’s People Delivered
GC 648.3
Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire,—so resplendent is it with the glory of God,—are gathered the company that have “gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.” With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, “having the harps of God,” they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great thunder, “the voice of harpers harping with their harps.” And they sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” Revelation 15:2, 3; 14:1-5. “These are they which came out of great tribulation;” they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault” before God. “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.” They have seen the earth wasted with famine and pestilence, the sun having power to scorch men with great heat, and they themselves have endured suffering, hunger, and thirst. But “they shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” Revelation 7:14-17.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 40—God’s People Delivered
GC88 648.3
Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire,—so resplendent is it with the glory of God,—are gathered the company that have “gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.” [Revelation 15:2.] With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, “having the harps of God,” they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great thunder, “the voice of harpers harping with their harps.” [Revelation 14:1-5; 15:3; 7:14-17] And they sing “a new song” before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb,—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience,—an experience such as no other company have ever had. “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth.” These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as “the first-fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” “These are they which came out of great tribulation;” [Revelation 14:1-5; 15:3; Revelation 7:14-17.] they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have “washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” “In their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault” before God. “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.” [Revelation 14:1-5; 15:3; Revelation 7:14-17.] They have seen the earth wasted with famine and pestilence, the sun having power to scorch men with great heat, and they themselves have endured suffering, hunger, and thirst. But “they shall hunger no more; neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters; and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” [Revelation 14:1-5; 15:3; 7:14-17.]Revelation 14:1-11
The Three Angels’ Messages
“And receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand”
3AM 87.1
Diligent study urged to identify the mark—When God sends to men warnings so important that they are represented as proclaimed by holy angels flying in the midst of heaven, He requires every person endowed with reasoning powers to heed the message. The fearful judgments denounced against the worship of the beast and his image (Revelation 14:9-11), should lead all to a diligent study of the prophecies to learn what the mark of the beast is, and how they are to avoid receiving it.—The Great Controversy, 594 (1888, 1911)3AM 88.2
Two signs of authority—In the issue of the great contest, two parties are developed: those who “worship the beast and his image,” and receive his mark, and those that receive “the seal of the living God,” who have “the Father’s name written in their foreheads.” [Revelation 14:9; 7:2; 14:1.] This is not a visible mark.Revelation 14:1-12
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 51, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 51, 1899, par. 7
It is at this time that the third angel is seen flying in the midst of heaven, proclaiming, “If any man worship the beast or his image, and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture.” “Here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:9, 10, 12.] In marked contrast to the world, stands a little company that will not swerve from their allegiance to God. These are they of whom Isaiah speaks as repairing the breach which had been made in the law of God, they who are “building the old waste places,” “raising up the foundation of many generations.” [Isaiah 58:12.]14LtMs, Ms 51, 1899, par. 10
In the issue of the great contest, two parties are developed: those who “worship the beast and his image,” and receive his mark, and those that receive “the seal of the living God,” who have “the Father’s name written in their foreheads.” [Revelation 14:9; 7:2; 14:1.] <This is not a visible mark.>14LtMs, Ms 51, 1899, par. 28
To every soul will come the searching test, Shall I obey God rather than men? The decisive hour is even now at hand. Satan is putting forth his utmost efforts in the rage of a last despairing struggle against Christ and His followers. In this closing scene false teachers are employing every possible device to stimulate the hardened sinner in his rebellious daring, to confirm the questioning, the doubting, the unbelieving, and by misrepresentation and falsehood to deceive, if it were possible, the very elect. Who are prepared to stand firmly under the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and faith of Jesus”? [Revelation 14:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 143, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 2
John beheld an angel flying through the midst of heaven, warning men of the final judgments of God. He proclaimed the position of those who heeded his warning, and who would escape the seven last plagues. He announced them as God’s people, and called attention to their peculiar character: “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] The time for the fulfilment of this prophecy has come. We hear the sound of this very message calling the attention of men and women to the broken law of God and demanding repentance and reform.16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 44
While you hold the banner of truth firmly, proclaiming the law of God, let every soul remember that the faith of Jesus is connected with the commandments of God. The third angel is represented as flying through the midst of heaven, crying with a loud voice, “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] The first, second, and third angels’ messages are all linked together. The evidences of the abiding, ever-living truth of these grand messages, that mean so much to us, that have awakened such intense opposition from the religious world, cannot be extinguished. Satan is constantly seeking to cast his hellish shadow about these messages, so that the remnant people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time, and place; but they live and are to exert their power upon our religious experience while time shall last.16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 45
The influence of these messages has been deepening and widening, setting in motion the springs of action in thousands of hearts, bringing into existence institutions of learning, publishing houses, and health institutions; all these are the instrumentalities of God to co-operate in the grand work represented by the first, second, and third angels flying in the midst of heaven to warn the inhabitants of the world that Christ is coming again with power and great glory. The prophet says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils.” [Revelation 18:1, 2.] This is the same message that was given by the second angel. Babylon is fallen, “because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:8.] What is that wine?—Her false doctrines. She has given to the world a false Sabbath instead of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and has repeated the falsehood that Satan first told to Eve in Eden—the natural immortality of the soul. Many kindred errors she has spread far and wide, “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:9.]16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 46
When Jesus began His public ministry, He cleansed the temple from its sacrilegious profanation. Among the last acts of His ministry was the second cleansing of the temple. So in the last work for the warning of the world, two distinct calls are made to the churches. The second angel’s message is, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:8.] And in the loud cry of the third angel’s message a voice is heard from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:4, 5.]16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 81
The benediction pronounced upon those who keep God’s law is, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] “And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Zion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. ... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:1, 12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 100, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 100, 1893, par. 9
The prophet heard the solemn warning against the worship of this blasphemous power: “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand.” [Revelation 14:9.] See Revelation 14:10, 11.8LtMs, Ms 100, 1893, par. 10
Of the loyal and true who do not bow to the decrees of earthly rulers against the authority of the King of heaven the Revelator says, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] See Revelation 14:1-3, 5; 15:2-4.Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1305—The Message in Revelation
18MR 27.3
“And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God” [Revelation 14:1-5].18MR 28.2
[Revelation 14:6-12, quoted.] This is the message we have to bear; this is the work we have to do. This is the message God has kept before the Seventh-day Adventist people. The truth of this message will not decrease, but will increase in force and importance as we are brought down to the close of the work of God on earth. We have no time to lose.Revelation 14:1-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 139, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 7
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of the harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 10
“And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: and the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever; and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Verses 6-12.] This is the message we have to bear; this is the work we have to do. This is the message God has kept before the Seventh-day Adventist people. The truth of this message will not decrease, but will increase in force and importance as we are brought down to the close of the work of God on earth. We have no time to lose.18LtMs, Ms 139, 1903, par. 11
“And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.” [Verse 13.] Since the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages, many standard bearers have fallen asleep in Jesus; they have laid off their armor, but their works do follow them. The work advances, and the faithful ones hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end.Revelation 14:1-17
A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
Texts of Scripture Referred to on Page 8
ExV 41.10
And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God. Revelation 14:4, 5.ExV 42.5
And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. Revelation 14:14-17.ExV 42.8
And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. Chap. 14:1.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 30.3
These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God. Revelation 14:4, 5.EW 31.2
And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. And He that sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. Revelation 14:14-17.EW 31.5
And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads. Revelation 14:1.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
Revelation 14:1-20
Christ Triumphant
The Angel of Revelation 10 Proclaims God’s Last Message, November 29
CTr 340.2
The message of Revelation 14, proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end. The angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world....Last Day Events
Chapter 14—The Loud Cry
LDE 198.2
“She made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication” (Revelation 14:6-8). How is this done? By forcing men to accept a spurious sabbath.—Testimonies for the Church 8:94 (1904).LDE 198.4
Not until this condition shall be reached, and the union of the church with the world shall be fully accomplished throughout Christendom, will the fall of Babylon be complete. The change is a progressive one, and the perfect fulfillment of Revelation 14:8 is yet future.—The Great Controversy, 389, 390 (1911).LDE 198.6
God has given the messages of Revelation 14 their place in the line of prophecy and their work is not to cease till the close of this earth’s history.—The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 804 (1890).LDE 199.2
[Revelation 18:1, 2, 4, quoted.] This scripture points forward to a time when the announcement of the fall of Babylon, as made by the second angel of Revelation 14 (verse 8), is to be repeated, with the additional mention of the corruptions which have been entering the various organizations that constitute Babylon, since that message was first given, in the summer of 1844.... These announcements, uniting with the third angel’s message, constitute the final warning to be given to the inhabitants of the earth....LDE 201.3
This message [Revelation 14:9-12] embraces the two preceding messages. It is represented as being given with a loud voice; that is, with the power of the Holy Spirit.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:980 (1900).From Here to Forever
Closing Work in the Sanctuary
HF 267.1
The passing of the time in 1844 was followed by great trial to those who held the advent faith. Their only relief was the light which directed their minds to the sanctuary above. As they waited and prayed they saw that their great High Priest had entered upon another work of ministration. Following Him by faith, they were led to see also the closing work of the church. They had a clearer understanding of the first and second angels’ messages, and were prepared to receive and give to the world the solemn warning of the third angel of Revelation 14.From Here to Forever
Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable
HF 269.3
Those who accepted the light concerning the mediation of Christ and the law of God found that these were the truths of Revelation 14, a threefold warning to prepare the inhabitants of earth for the Lord’s second coming. (See Appendix) The announcement “The hour of his judgment is come” heralds a truth which must be proclaimed until the Saviour’s intercession shall cease and He shall return to take His people to Himself. The judgment which began in 1844 must continue until the cases of all are decided, both of the living and the dead; hence it will extend to the close of human probation.HF 270.1
That men may be prepared to stand in the judgment, the message commands them to “fear God, and give glory to him,” “and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea and the fountains of waters.” The result of acceptance of these messages is given: “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Revelation 14:7, 12.From Here to Forever
A Call to Worship the Creator
HF 270.5
In Revelation 14, men are called to worship the Creator and keep the commandments of God. One of these commandments points to God as the Creator: “The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: ... for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” Exodus 20:10, 11. The Sabbath, the Lord says, is a “sign, ... that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.” Ezekiel 20:20. Had the Sabbath been universally kept, man would have been led to the Creator as the object of worship. There would never have been an idolater, atheist, or infidel. Keeping the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to “him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” The message which commands men to worship God and keep His commandments will especially call them to keep the fourth commandment.HF 271.1
In contrast to those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, the third angel points to another class: “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.” Revelation 14:9, 10. What is represented by the beast, the image, the mark?From Here to Forever
Chapter 38—God’s Final Message
HF 367.2
The announcement made by the second angel of Revelation 14 (verse 8) is to be repeated, with the additional mention of the corruptions which have been entering Babylon since that message was first given.HF 368.2
With the issue thus clearly brought before him, whoever shall trample upon God’s law to obey a human enactment receives the mark of the beast, the sign of allegiance to the power he chooses to obey instead of God. “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.” Revelation 14:9, 10.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Lesson of 1844
CIHS 112.1
In the typical system, which was a shadow of the sacrifice and priesthood of Christ, the cleansing of the sanctuary was the last service performed by the high priest in the yearly round of ministration. It was the closing work of the atonement—a removal or putting away of sin from Israel. It prefigured the closing work in the ministration of our High Priest in heaven, in the removal or blotting out of the sins of His people, which are registered in the heavenly records. This service involves a work of investigation, a work of judgment; and it immediately precedes the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory; for when He comes, every case has been decided. Says Jesus: “My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:12. It is this work of judgment, immediately preceding the second advent, that is announced in the first angel’s message of Revelation 14:7: “Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.”CIHS 112.2
Those who proclaimed this warning gave the right message at the right time. But as the early disciples declared, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand,” based on the prophecy of Daniel 9, while they failed to perceive that the death of the Messiah was foretold in the same scripture, so Miller and his associates preached the message based on Daniel 8:14 and Revelation 14:7, and failed to see that there were still other messages brought to view in Revelation 14, which were also to be given before the advent of the Lord. As the disciples were mistaken in regard to the kingdom to be set up at the end of the seventy weeks, so Adventists were mistaken in regard to the event to take place at the expiration of the 2300 days. In both cases there was an acceptance of, or rather an adherence to, popular errors that blinded the mind to the truth. Both classes fulfilled the will of God in delivering the message which He desired to be given, and both, through their own misapprehension of their message, suffered disappointment.Christ in His Sanctuary
Chapter 6 - The End of the 2300 Days
CIHS 117.1
A great religious awakening under the proclamation of Christ’s soon coming is foretold in the prophecy of the first angel’s message of Revelation 14. An angel is seen flying “in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” “With a loud voice” he proclaims the message: “Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” Verses 6, 7.Christ in His Sanctuary
Study Questions
1. How is the “exalted character” of the message of the first angel of Revelation 14 represented? In what three ways are the rapidity and worldwide extent of the movement indicated? (79)
Christ in His Sanctuary
Chapter 8 - Our High Priest in the Holy of Holies
CIHS 153.1
Says the prophet: “Who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth? for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” Malachi 3:2, 3. Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Tragic Result of Rejecting God’s Warning Message
CIHS 163.1
The passing of the time in 1844 was followed by a period of great trial to those who still held the advent faith. Their only relief, so far as ascertaining their true position was concerned, was the light which directed their minds to the sanctuary above. Some renounced their faith in their former reckoning of the prophetic periods and ascribed to human or satanic agencies the powerful influence of the Holy Spirit which had attended the advent movement. Another class firmly held that the Lord had led them in their past experience; and as they waited and watched and prayed to know the will of God they saw that their great High Priest had entered upon another work of ministration, and, following Him by faith, they were led to see also the closing work of the church. They had a clearer understanding of the first and second angels’ messages, and were prepared to receive and give to the world the solemn warning of the third angel of Revelation 14.—The Great Controversy, 423-432.Christ in His Sanctuary
The Sanctuary and the Sabbath
CIHS 167.1
Those who had accepted the light concerning the mediation of Christ and the perpetuity of the law of God found that these were the truths presented in Revelation 14. The messages of this chapter constitute a threefold warning which is to prepare the inhabitants of the earth for the Lord’s second coming. The announcement, “The hour of His judgment is come,” points to the closing work of Christ’s ministration for the salvation of men. It heralds a truth which must be proclaimed until the Saviour’s intercession shall cease and He shall return to the earth to take His people to Himself. The work of judgment which began in 1844 must continue until the cases of all are decided, both of the living and the dead; hence it will extend to the close of human probation. That men may be prepared to stand in the judgment, the message commands them to “fear God, and give glory to Him,” “and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” The result of an acceptance of these messages is given in the word: “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” In order to be prepared for the judgment, it is necessary that men should keep the law of God. That law will be the standard of character in the judgment.—The Great Controversy, 433-436.From the Heart
Work in the Cities, November 22
FH 338.2
The message of the third angel of Revelation 14 is now to be proclaimed not only in lands far off, but in neglected places close by, where multitudes dwell unwarned and unsaved. God is calling His people at this time to a long-delayed work. Decided efforts are to be made to enlighten those who have never yet been warned. The work in the cities is now to be regarded as of special importance. Let workers be carefully selected to labor two and two in the cities in harmony with the counsel of experienced leaders and under the direction and commission of Jesus Christ.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Chapter 8—In Defense of the Truth
GrH_c 34.2
In Revelation 14, men are called upon to worship the Creator and keep the commandments of God. One of these commandments points directly to God as the Creator. “The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God:... for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” Exodus 20:10, 11. Concerning the Sabbath, the Lord says, further, that it is “a sign,... that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.” Ezekiel 20:20. Had the Sabbath been universally kept, man’s thoughts and affections would have been led to the Creator as the object of reverence and worship, and there would never have been an idolater, an atheist, or an infidel. The keeping of the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to the true God, “Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” It follows that the message which commands men to worship God and keep His commandments will especially call upon them to keep the fourth commandment.The Great Hope (Condensed)
The Call to Prepare
GrH_c 39.6
This warning is brought to view in Revelation 14. Here is a threefold message represented as proclaimed by heavenly beings and immediately followed by the coming of the Son of man to reap “the harvest of the earth.” The prophet saw an angel flying “in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” Revelation 14:6, 7.The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
I. Shut-Door Views From 1844 to 1852
1EGWLM 46.1
For Bates the idea of 144,000 sealed people at the end of time seemed almost unimaginable in light of the “little flock” of Sabbatarian Adventists who numbered a few hundred at most. Connecting the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14 to the sealing of the 144,000 in Revelation 7, Bates described two classes of people who comprised the “living saints”:19Joseph Bates, A Seal of the Living God, pp. 39, 65. “Now all advent believers that have, and do, participate in the advent messages as given in Rev. 14:6-13, will love and keep this covenant with God, and especially his Holy Sabbath, in this covenant; this is a part of the 144,000 now to be sealed.The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
III. Summary and Conclusions
1EGWLM 57.1
During 1848 and 1849 Bates further refined the eschatological importance of the Sabbath into the sealing message based on Revelation 7 and 14. The Sabbath as the seal of God required that a Sabbath proclamation be given to the world before Jesus could return. This put further strain on the idea of a shut door for “sinners.” Sabbatarian Adventists began to emphasize the open door into the Most Holy Place of the heavenly sanctuary, and the term shut door was redefined to mean something very different from a shut door of probation. It came to represent the validity of the 1844 experience that Sabbatarian Adventism had embraced. During 1850 and 1851 the movement grew very rapidly, with nearly 1,000 new converts in New York alone.The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
Ms 15, 1850
I saw that the two-horned beast9
Not until some months later, in May 1851, did a Sabbatarian scholar (J. N. Andrews) first propose that the United States of America be identified with the “two-horned” beast of Revelation 13.
Jesus clothes Himself with the garments of vengeance and takes His place upon the great white cloud16
Rev. 14:14, 15.
The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
Ms 1, 1852
How long then, angel of God, before the message will go with a loud voice?10
See: EGWEnc, s.v. “Loud Cry.”
The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
B
1EGWLM 950.37
“Babylon” in Rev. 14 “is fallen,” seeThree angels’ messagesTestimony for the Church — No. 32
The Church the Light of the World.
T32 211.2
God has called his church in this day, as he called ancient Israel, to stand as a light in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth, the messages of the first, second, and third angels, he has separated them from the churches and from the world to bring them into a sacred nearness to himself. He has made them the depositaries of his law, and has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this time. Like the holy oracles committed to ancient Israel, these are a sacred trust to be communicated to the world. The three angels of Revelation 14 represent the people who accept the light of God’s messages, and go forth as his agents to sound the warning throughout the length and breadth of the earth. Christ declares to his followers, “Ye are the light of the world.” To every soul that accepts Jesus, the cross of Calvary speaks, “Behold the worth of the soul. ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’” Nothing is to be permitted to hinder this work. It is the all-important work for time; it is to be far-reaching as eternity. The love that Jesus manifested for the souls of men in the sacrifice which he made for their redemption, will actuate all his followers.Testimony for the Church — No. 31
Calls for Laborers.
T31 202.3
The third angel of Revelation fourteen is represented as flying swiftly through the midst of heaven crying, “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Here is shown the nature of the work of the people of God. They have a message of so great importance that they are represented as flying in the presentation of it to the world. They are holding in their hands the bread of life for a famishing world. The love of Christ constraineth them. This is the last message. There are no more to follow; no more invitations of mercy to be given after this message shall have done its work. What a trust! What a responsibility is resting upon all to carry the words of gracious invitation. “And the Spirit and the bride say, come. And let him that heareth say, come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”Lift Him Up
Worship the Creator, February 6
LHU 51.1
Worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. Revelation 14:7.LHU 51.4
In Revelation 14, men are called upon to worship the Creator; and the prophecy brings to view a class that, as the result of the threefold message, are keeping the commandments of God. One of these commandments points directly to God as the Creator. The fourth precept declares: “The seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: ... for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it” (Exodus 20:10, 11). Concerning the Sabbath, the Lord says, further, that it is “a sign, ... that ye may know that I am the Lord your God” (Ezekiel 20:20). And the reason given is: “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed” (Exodus 31:17)....Homeward Bound
A Period of Trial, October 15
HB 316.5
The passing of the time in 1844 was followed by a period of great trial to those who still held the advent faith. Their only relief, so far as ascertaining their true position was concerned, was the light which directed their minds to the sanctuary above. Some renounced their faith in their former reckoning of the prophetic periods and ascribed to human or satanic agencies the powerful influence of the Holy Spirit which had attended the advent movement. Another class firmly held that the Lord had led them in their past experience; and as they waited and watched and prayed to know the will of God they saw that their great High Priest had entered upon another work of ministration, and, following Him by faith, they were led to see also the closing work of the church. They had a clearer understanding of the first and second angels’ messages, and were prepared to receive and give to the world the solemn warning of the third angel of Revelation 14.—The Great Controversy, 430-432.Homeward Bound
End of Jesus’ Work as Priest and Mediator, October 21
HB 322.3
Says the prophet: “Who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth? for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” (Malachi 3:2, 3.) Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 5, 1878
3LtMs, Ms 5, 1878, par. 20
My husband spoke in the forenoon meeting with freedom and clearness from Revelation 14. His subject was, “The Testimony of Jesus Is the Spirit of Prophecy.” [Chapter 19:10.] He talked two hours lacking one quarter of an hour. Elder Haskell spoke in the afternoon upon making a covenant with God by sacrifice. Psalm 50:5. In the evening I spoke to a crowded tent on Christ’s riding into Jerusalem and the barren fig tree. The very best of attention was given. The people seemed to have ears to hear, and many had hearts to receive the words spoken.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 47, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 47, 1886, par. 13
The counsels are of God, and His Word was not given in a few days on a high-pressure plan. It took a long space of time to bring out the Bible history. Under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, a chapter was written, a psalm was composed, a proverb penned, a vision from God recorded, and so down through the ages the will and purposes of God were brought out. About fifteen hundred years were occupied from the time Moses began to write the book of Genesis down to the completion of the Revelation by the beloved John. God would not have us so excitable, in such a hurry; and yet there are some who need to be taught diligence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 47a, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 47a, 1886, par. 14
The Lord would not have us be so excitable, in such a hurry. The counsels of God in His Word were not given in a few days, on the high-pressure plan. It took a long period of time to bring out the Bible history. Under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, a chapter was written, a psalm composed, a proverb penned, a vision recorded, and so down through the ages the will and purposes of God were brought out. About fifteen hundred years passed from the time Moses began to write the book of Genesis, down to the completion of the Revelation by the beloved John.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 31, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 31, 1890, par. 4
By His Spirit the Lord has given the very instruction that is needed at this time. The special movement under the messages of (Revelation 14), in its relation to the past and the future, the closing work of Christ in heaven and of His people upon earth, has been unfolded. The Lord placed upon me the burden of bringing out these things, and in Volume Four I have presented them; I still feel a burden that the message shall go to the people. In that book are warnings to guard the people of God against the many errors that shall be promulgated as truth. Every family among our people should study it. The truths which it presents will arouse the conscience and to many will prove a safeguard against deception. It will confirm their faith in the past work of the messages. The warnings, reproof, and instruction given by the Spirit of God are needed by all. There is need of an awakening, a searching of heart, in the light that God has given.6LtMs, Ms 31, 1890, par. 7
Some of those who are newly come to the faith claim to have special light from God in regard to these messages, but their new light leads them to set aside established truths that are the pillars of our faith. They misinterpret and misapply the Scriptures. They misplace the messages of (Revelation 14), and set aside the work which these messages have accomplished. Thus they reject the great waymarks which God Himself has established. Since their new light leads them to tear down the structure which the Lord has built up, we may know that He is not guiding them.6LtMs, Ms 31, 1890, par. 9
God has given the messages of (Revelation 14) their place in [the] line of prophecy, and their work is not to cease till the close of this earth’s history. The first and second angels’ messages are still truth for this time and are to run parallel with that which follows. The third angel proclaims his warning with a loud voice. “After these things,” said John, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power, and the earth was lightened with his glory.” [Revelation 18:1.] In this illumination, the light of all the three messages is combined.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 40, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 40, 1894, par. 17
From Genesis to Revelation the conditions upon which eternal life is promised are made plain. God requires that those who shall enter heaven shall be without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. “Keep My commandments and live” is the requirement of God. [Proverbs 4:4.] But one says, “My conscience does not condemn me in not keeping the commandments of God.” But in the Word of God we read that there are good and bad consciences, and the fact that your conscience does not condemn you in not keeping the law of God does not prove that you are uncondemned in His sight. Take your conscience to the Word of God, and see if your life and character are in accordance with the standard of righteousness which God has revealed in His Word. You can then determine whether or not you have an intelligent faith, and what manner of conscience is yours.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 67, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 67, 1895, par. 14
Christ came in the form of humanity to live the law of God. He was the Word of life. He came to be the gospel of salvation to the world, and to fulfill every specification of the law. Jesus is the Word, the guidebook, which must be received and obeyed in every particular. How necessary that this mine of truth be explored, and the precious treasures of truth be discovered and secured as rich jewels. The incarnation of Christ, His divinity, His atonement, His wonderful life in heaven as our Advocate, the office of the Holy Spirit—all those living, vital themes of Christianity are revealed from Genesis to Revelation. The golden links of truth form a chain of evangelical truth, and the first and staple link is found in the great teachings of Christ Jesus. Why, then, should not the Scriptures be ennobled and exalted in every school in our land? How little children are educated to study the Bible as the Word of God, and feed upon its truths, which are the flesh and blood of the Son of God! “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood” (that is, continue to receive the words of Christ, and practice them) “hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” [John 6:53-56.] “And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.” [1 John 3:24.]Lift Him Up
The Standard of Character in the Judgment, November 24
LHU 342.2
Those who had accepted the light concerning the mediation of Christ and the perpetuity of the law of God found that these were the truths presented in Revelation 14. The messages of this chapter constitute a threefold warning which is to prepare the inhabitants of the earth for the Lord’s second coming. The announcement, “The hour of his judgment is come,” points to the closing work of Christ’s ministration for the salvation of men. It heralds a truth which must be proclaimed until the Saviour’s intercession shall cease and He shall return to the earth to take His people to Himself. The work of judgment which began in 1844 must continue until the cases of all are decided, both of the living and the dead; hence it will extend to the close of human probation. That men may be prepared to stand in the judgment, the message commands them to “fear God, and give glory to him,” “and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” The result of an acceptance of these messages is given in the Word: “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” In order to be prepared for the judgment, it is necessary that men should keep the law of God. That law will be the standard of character in the judgment. The apostle Paul declares: “As many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law, ... in the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ.” And he says that “the doers of the law shall be justified” (Romans 2:12-16). Faith is essential in order to the keeping of the law of God; for “without faith it is impossible to please him.” And “whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Hebrews 11:6; Romans 14:23).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 139, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 139, 1896, par. 3
I am very anxious to get out Testimony No. 34 now. I have secured Eliza’s help. I will undertake that work which ought to have been done years ago. I have things that should come to the people. Time is short. The end of all things is at hand. We are to give more diligent searching to Revelation. Here is a book opened for those who shall live in these last days of time. Daniel and Revelation are the books applicable to us and should be carefully studied and with much prayer. Read the first three verses:11LtMs, Lt 139, 1896, par. 5
There is not that attention given to Revelation there should be. Much more should be said in regard to the coming of our Lord. There should be most earnest attention given to the Word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 32, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 3
The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days. The Scripture says, “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” [Daniel 12:4.] When the book was opened, the proclamation was made, “Time shall be no longer.” [Revelation 10:6.] The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 4
“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of water.” [Revelation 14:6, 7.]11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 11
The message of (Revelation 14), proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of (Revelation 10) is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 14
All that God has in prophetic history specified to be fulfilled in the past has been, and all that is yet to come in its order will be. Daniel, God’s prophet, stands in his place. John stands in his place. In the Revelation the Lion of the tribe of Judah has opened to the students of prophecy the book of Daniel, and thus is Daniel standing in his place. He bears his testimony, that which the Lord revealed to him in vision of the great and solemn events which we must know as we stand on the very threshold of their fulfillment.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 25
The very same Satan is at work to undermine the faith of the people of God at this time. There are persons ready to catch up every new idea. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are misinterpreted. These persons do not consider that the truth has been set forth at the appointed time by the very men whom God was leading <to do this special work.> These men followed on step by step in the <very fulfillment> of prophecy, and those who have not had a personal experience in this work are to take the Word of God and believe on “their word” [John 17:20] who have been led by the Lord in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. These messages, received and acted upon, are doing their work to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. If we search the Scriptures to confirm the truth God has given His servants for the world, we shall be found proclaiming the first, second, and third angels’ messages.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 26
It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of (Revelation 14) are those by which the world is to be tested, they are the everlasting gospel, and are to be sounded everywhere. But the Lord does not lay upon those who have not had an experience in His work the burden of making a new exposition of these prophecies, which He has, by His Holy Spirit, moved upon His chosen servants to explain.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 36
God has warned His people of the perils before them. John beholds the things which will be in the last days, and he sees a people working counter to God. Read Revelation 12:17; 14:10-12; [and] chapters 17 and 13. John sees the company who have been deceived. He says, “I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” [Revelation 16:13-15.]11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 38
Prophecy has been fulfilling, line upon line. The more firmly we stand under the banner of the third angel’s message, the more clearly shall we understand the prophecy of Daniel, for the Revelation is the supplement of Daniel. The more fully we accept the light presented by the Holy Spirit through the consecrated servants of God, the deeper and surer, even as the eternal throne, will appear the truths of ancient prophecy; we shall be assured that men of God spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost. Men must themselves be under the influence of the Holy Spirit in order to understand the Spirit’s utterances through the prophets. These messages were given, not for those that uttered the prophecies, but for us who are living amid the scenes of their fulfillment.11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 48
“Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Here we stand, under the third angel’s message. “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:1-5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 176, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 176, 1896, par. 2
I have had to meet many things that required pen labor and voice labor to repress and counteract. Brother John Bell is having a large burden to get out that which he considers very precious matter upon Daniel and Revelation. It is a mixture of truth and error, supposition, and a mass of Scripture misapplied and misinterpreted. And yet he has the greatest assurance that he has great light. But as he had no knowledge of the experience through which we passed in the proclamation of the first and second angels’ messages, he cannot understand that his theories uproot the past leadings of God. This I am now seeking to present to him. For two nights in succession I was awake—one night at half past two o’clock a.m.; the next night at half past one o’clock a.m.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 57, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 57, 1896, par. 4
There is need of a much closer study of the Word of God; especially should Daniel and the Revelation have attention as never before in the history of our work. We may have less to say in some lines, in regard to the Roman power and the papacy, but we should call attention to what the prophets and apostles have written under the inspiration of the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit has so shaped matters, both in the giving of the prophecy and in the events portrayed, as to teach that the human agent is to be kept out of sight, hid in Christ, and the Lord God of heaven and His law are to be exalted.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Location of Three-Fold Message Divinely Fixed
1MR 46.1
The message of Revelation 14, proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 87, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 87, 1896, par. 2
All who are preparing to meet the Lord at His coming should make the book of Revelation the subject of their earnest study and prayer. This book is just what its name signifies—a revelation of the important events that are to take place in the last days of this earth’s history. John because of his faithful trust in the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, was banished to the isle of Patmos. But his banishment did not separate him from Jesus Christ. The Lord knows all about His faithful servants, who for His sake are lying in prisons and dungeons, or who are banished to lonely islands; and He comforts them in their affliction. Christ visited John in his exile and opened to him the closing scenes of this world’s history.11LtMs, Lt 87, 1896, par. 6
“And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb; and the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, whosoever receiveth the number of his name. Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:6-12.]11LtMs, Lt 87, 1896, par. 8
The book of Revelation must be opened to the people. Many have been taught that it is a sealed book; but it is sealed only to those who reject light and truth. The truth it contains must be proclaimed, that people may have an opportunity to prepare for the events which are so soon to transpire. The third angel’s message must be presented as the only hope for the salvation of a perishing world.11LtMs, Lt 87, 1896, par. 13
The perils of the last days are upon us, and in our work we are to warn people of the danger they are in. Let not the solemn scenes which prophecy has revealed, be left untouched. If our people were half awake, if they realized the nearness of the events portrayed by John, such a reformation would be made in our churches, that many more would believe our message. We are God’s messengers, and we have not time to lose, for He calls upon us to watch for souls as they that must give account. Advance new principles, and crowd in the clear-cut truth. It will be as a sword working both ways. But do not be too ready to take a controversial attitude. There will be times when we must stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. Present the truth as it is in Jesus. Let Daniel speak, let Revelation speak, and tell what is truth. But whatever phase of the subject is presented, uplift Jesus as the center of all hope, “the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” [Revelation 22:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 29, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 29, 1896, par. 17
Will our brethren bear in mind that we are living amid the perils of the last days? Read Revelation in connection with Daniel. Teach these things. Let discourses be short, spiritual, elevated. Let the preacher be full of the Word of the Lord. Let every man who enters the pulpit know that he has angels from heaven in his audience. And when these angels empty from themselves the golden oil of truth into the heart of him who is teaching the Word, then the application of the truth will be a solemn, serious matter. The angel messengers will expel sin from the heart, unless the door of the heart is padlocked and Christ is refused admission. Christ will withdraw Himself from those who persist in refusing the heavenly blessings that are so freely offered them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 15, 1896
NP
April 27, 1896
This manuscript is published in entirety in 13MR 59-73.
11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 1
The word revelation means all that the definition of the word would signify, and this is the title of the last book of the Bible. A thing revealed is not a thing eclipsed and placed in obscurity and mystery. When a matter is unfolded, the mystery is opened. This book is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John; who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” [Revelation 1:1-3.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 2
In the book of Revelation we read of a special work that God would have His agents do in these last days. They have a special warning to give to the world. All the institutions that have been established in His providence are to lift up the standard of the third angel’s message. God has blessed these institutions, and given them prosperity, as His chosen agents have acted as co-workers with Jesus Christ, and have communicated the wisdom which He imparted. God has given prosperity to the Sanitarium, and to Dr. Kellogg as God’s instrumentality. Your prosperity, Dr. Kellogg, has been in proportion to the efforts you have made to make the truth stand forth in its purity. Your medical practice has been attended with success because of His blessing, and if you will acknowledge Him in all your ways, He will direct you into paths of complete victory. The earnest zeal which has been manifested by Seventh-day Adventists under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, has been acknowledged of God.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 3
The Health Institution has not been brought into favor simply because of the talent, skill, or wisdom of one man. It is because God has had faithful instrumentalities that have consented to be worked by the Holy Spirit, and many influences have been combined in bringing about the prosperity of the Sanitarium. The time that has been spent in communing with God, in seeking His help before undertaking to relieve those who were in a critical condition, has brought angels to the side of the doctor and his assistants. In transacting your business that has been so important, you have succeeded, according as you have trusted in God. He has been by your side just as verily as Christ was by the side of those who were suffering when He walked among them on earth.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 4
It is God who gives power to make men efficient in His service. He will impart power to His workers who have an eye single to His glory. But there is danger that you yourself or your associate physicians may set God aside, and trust in your own wisdom. If any of you entertain the thoughts and cherish the feelings that Nebuchadnezzar cherished, you will be in danger of passing through a trying experience. God had revealed Himself to Nebuchadnezzar in giving him the dream of the great image, and in sending His servant Daniel to explain its meaning. God had made known to the king what should be hereafter, and his kingdom was represented by the head of gold. The king and his counselors were flattered by the idea that the head of gold represented Babylon, and each successive kingdom was represented by a baser metal, signifying that as the nations should separate more and more from God, they would decrease in value. Heathen counselors flattered the king, and caused him to place himself before the people as an object of worship.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 5
God had greatly honored the king in communicating with him; but He allowed him to follow his own inventions. He set up a golden image in the plains of Dura, and commanded men to bow down before it. It was exceedingly costly and magnificent, representing the kingdom of Babylon and magnifying the king who ruled over that kingdom. But the three Hebrew captives who cherished the knowledge of the true God refused to worship the image that the king had set up, and for their loyalty to the God of heaven they were cast into the burning, fiery furnace. But the Lord Jesus was with them, and preserved them from all harm. He manifested Himself unto them even as He has promised to manifest Himself unto us.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 6
Jesus says, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me, and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him.” [John 14:21.] The king saw the form of the Fourth, and was convinced that the God of the three Hebrews was the living God. He acknowledged the wonderful miracle that had been wrought, but because he did not continue to walk in the light he lost the holy impression that had been made upon his mind. But God saw fit to give the king another dream that is recorded in the fourth chapter of Daniel.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 7
Dr. Kellogg, please read this chapter prayerfully and carefully, and present it before all your associates. Under another symbol, His power and glory was presented before Nebuchadnezzar. Read this with a heart open to understand its significance. The interpretation was plainly given to the proud king and [was] followed by a message from God. The counsel was given to the king in these words, “Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor.” For a time Nebuchadnezzar was impressed by the warning and counsel that had been given him, but a heart that is not fully transformed by the grace of God soon loses the impression of the Holy Spirit.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 8
For twelve months the king was placed on trial, but at the end of that time he manifested the spirit that had led him to set up the golden image. At the end of twelve months he was walking in the royal palace of Babylon. “The king spake and said, Is not this great Babylon, which I have built for the royal dwelling place, by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?” While the words of self-glorification were in the mouth of the king, “There fell a voice from heaven saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; the kingdom is departed from thee. And thou shalt be driven from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field; thou shalt be made to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee; until thou knowest that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomsoever he will.” [Verses 30-32.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 9
This message from God was fulfilled. The king of Babylon, because he neglected to heed the testimonies of warning that had been given him, suffered the most humiliating punishments. Warnings had been given him of God; Daniel had appealed to him to change his course of action, to break off his sins by righteousness, in order that this terrible sentence might not be fulfilled. But self-indulgence, inordinate ambition, was not eradicated from his heart, and after a time revealed itself in words of vanity.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 10
Dr. Kellogg, it is essential that you read carefully and prayerfully this whole chapter. The Lord has placed you in an important position. He will honor you just as long as you honor Him. The dream given to the king of Babylon is a very striking one. Nebuchadnezzar was the greatest ruler, the most powerful king, of the time, and the prosperity of his kingdom, which had been given him of God for the glory of God, caused the Lord to designate that kingdom as the head of gold. But Nebuchadnezzar turned the warnings of God against himself. Instead of tracing out the end of all earthly things and the setting up of God’s everlasting kingdom, he turned aside to follow the imaginations of his proud heart, thinking that his kingdom should be a more extensive and powerful kingdom than it then was.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 11
The dream given him was very explicit, but the magicians, the astrologers, the soothsayers, and the Chaldeans could not make known to the king his dream or tell the interpretation thereof. Those who do not love and fear God cannot understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. They cannot approach unto the throne of Him who dwelleth in light unapproachable; and the things of God are to them mysteries of mysteries. But the king bears testimony to the fact that the servants of God understand the things of God. Daniel told the dream and the interpretation thereof before the king.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 12
Daniel was esteemed by the king because of his unswerving integrity, for he was faithful in honoring God at all times and in all places. His wisdom was unexcelled, and neither he nor his fellows would make any compromise to secure positions in the court, or even to preserve life itself, when the honor of God was involved. In the early part of his acquaintance with Daniel, the king had found that he was the only one who could give him relief in his perplexity, and now at a later period, when another perplexing vision is given him, he remembers Daniel. Calling him into his presence, he says, “O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretations thereof.” [Verse 9.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 13
Then Nebuchadnezzar related his dream, saying, “I saw, and behold a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof was great. The tree grew and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth. The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: and the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the branches thereof, and all flesh was fed of it. I saw in the visions of my head, upon my bed, and, behold a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven. He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cur off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 14
“Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field: and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth: let his heart be changed from a man’s, and let a beast’s heart be given him, and let seven times pass over him.” Now mark what is said by this heavenly messenger as to what is the purpose of the fulfillment of this vision. “The sentence is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the Holy One: to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdoms of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the lowest of men.” [Verses 10-17.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 15
This was the dream that came to Nebuchadnezzar, and he appealed to Daniel to declare the interpretation. Daniel was much troubled as he saw the significance of the dream was, but he told the king what would befall him, saying, “Thou shalt be driven from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and thou shalt be made to eat grass like oxen, and shalt be wet with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdoms of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.” [Verse 25.] Then Daniel exhorted the king, as we have before presented, to break off his sins by righteousness, and his iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. But the light from heaven was not accepted, and did not exert a saving influence upon his character. Those who receive light will either change their course of action, or else the Word of the Lord will become less and less palatable, and will finally be set aside. The king did not heed the words of warning, and he greatly perverted his ways.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 16
The statement, “Thou art this head of gold,” flattered his vanity, and his rule became oppressive. [Daniel 2:38.] He exalted himself, and determined that his kingdom should be like an image that was all gold. He cherished jealousy of other kingdoms, and after the light God gave him had been made clear to his mind, he still perverted his course of action, and exalted himself before God. His rule that had been to a great extent just and merciful, because God had imparted wisdom, now manifested the vanity and oppression of the human heart. The reason God had given him was misapplied and misused in glorifying himself, and was finally dethroned. He followed the instincts of the beasts; he ate the food they ate, and acted as they did. For seven years the king was an astonishment to all his subjects. He was an example of what it is to be humbled of God, because he did not honor God, but made himself as God.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 17
The Lord gave him the truth, but he did not practice it. The universe of heaven said to the king of Babylon, “Thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” [Matthew 16:23.] The ways of men are opposed to the ways of God. The Lord Jesus gave lessons to His disciples to show to us all that it is through His grace alone that we shall be able to discern spiritual truths. “If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” [John 14:15-17.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 18
To us who believe have been committed the oracles of God. The books of Daniel and Revelation are full of matter which concerns every one of us. We should study these books, and let the Lord God of Israel communicate truth to us, so that we may be able to communicate the truth to others who live in these last days. The Lord would have His people learn of Jesus. God forbid that those for whom He has wrought shall become highminded and be left to their own way as was the king of Babylon.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 19
Those who are regarded as wise men, who are exalted to positions of trust, may be tempted to take a course like that of the king of Babylon, but rather let them be taught by the Lord’s dealings with this king and understand that all human glory will certainly be stained. God will leave men to their own exalted ideas, and prove that the wisdom of men is foolishness. God would have men learn through the experience of others that human imaginations are not current with God. The Lord sets His seal upon those who build their characters according to the Pattern shown them in the mount. We are safe only as we follow Jesus, and drink from the fountain of wisdom which is pure and undefiled.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 20
The lesson that the Lord would have all humanity learn from the history of the king of Babylon is that all those who walk in pride and self-exaltation, He is able to abase. The chastening that came upon the king of Babylon wrought reformation in the heart of the king and transformed him in character. Before his humiliation he was tyrannical in his dealings with others, but now the overbearing, fierce monarch is changed into a wise and compassionate ruler. Before his humiliation he defied and blasphemed the God of heaven, but now he acknowledges His power and seeks earnestly to promote the happiness of his subjects. At last the king had received his lesson. “Come all ye that fear God, and I will make known to you what he hath done for my soul.” [Psalm 66:16.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 21
The Lord designed that the greatest kingdom in the world should show forth His praise. Nebuchadnezzar says, “At the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored him that liveth forever and ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: and all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” [Daniel 4:34, 35.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 22
In the experience of Nebuchadnezzar is contained a lesson to which we should give heed, lest we fall into temptation. The perils of the last days are upon us, and we should watch and pray, read and heed the lessons that are given us in the books of Daniel and Revelation. In mercy the Lord has wrought in behalf of the Sanitarium, the college and the Review and Herald office. Just as long as those in connection with these institutions walk humbly with God, heavenly intelligences will co-operate with them; but let all bear in mind the fact that God has said, “Them that honor me I will honor.” [1 Samuel 2:30.] The Lord manifested Himself to the four Hebrew youth in the courts of Babylon. They were surrounded with temptations on every hand, yet God set a hedge about them in order that they should not be corrupted, because they preserved their simplicity of faith. There is a lesson in this for us.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 23
When the Lord specified that there should be a health and temperance institution at Battle Creek, He also specified what should be its object. It was not to be fashioned after the character of any other institution in the world. It was to stand as a Seventh-day Adventist institution that would give character to His cause in the world. It was also to be an asylum for those who should accept the truth, to which they could resort when sick. It was to be a place where the truth should be made to shine out, not where it should be placed under a bushel. The truth should be the all important thing in the institution. The Lord designed that it should be a place where He would be honored in word and deed, where His law should be magnified, where the true faith of the Bible should ever be made prominent before its patrons.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 24
In these last days it is our duty to ascertain the full meaning of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. All our transactions should be in accordance with the Word of God. The first, second, and third angels’ messages are all united, and are revealed in the 14th chapter of Revelation from the sixth verse to the close. The whole gospel is to be proclaimed throughout the world.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 25
The advice given to students to the effect that it is essential for them to go to Ann Arbor in order to obtain a finished education is a mistake. They will obtain an erroneous education in which errors and infidel sentiments will be mingled with truth. Many thus advised become unsusceptible to the truth, and a season spent at Ann Arbor will serve to mold their characters after a false standard. Is the soon coming of Christ a reality to us? Let every student seek to reach the highest point of education and be fitted for an inheritance with the saints in light. If he is educated in such a way as to reach this, he will learn that which will continue through eternal ages.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 26
The banner of the third angel has inscribed upon it, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] Our institutions have taken a name which sets forth the character of our faith, and of this name we are never to be ashamed. I have been shown that this name means much, and in adopting it we have followed the light given us from heaven. Let us hear what the Lord saith, “And the Lord spoke unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death: wherefore whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. ... It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-14, 17.]11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 27
The Sabbath is God’s memorial to His creative work, and it is a sign that is to be kept before the world. There is to be no compromise with those who are worshiping an idol sabbath. We are not to spend our time in controversy with those who know the truth, and upon whom the light of truth has been shining, when they turn away their ear from the truth to turn to fables. I was told that men will employ every policy to make less prominent the difference between the faith of Seventh-day Adventists and those who observe the first day of the week. In this controversy the whole world will be engaged, and the time is short. This is no time to haul down our colors.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 28
A company was presented before me under the name of Seventh-day Adventists, who were advising that the banner or sign which makes us a distinctive people should not be held out so strikingly, for they claimed it was not the best policy in securing success to our institutions. This distinctive banner is to be borne through the world to the close of probation. In describing the remnant people of God, John says, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] This is the law and the gospel. The world and the churches are uniting in harmony in transgressing the law of God, in tearing away God’s memorial, and in exalting a sabbath that bears the signature of the man of sin. But the Sabbath of the Lord thy God is to be a sign to show the difference between the obedient and [the] disobedient. I saw some reaching out their hands to remove the banner, and to obscure its significance.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 29
The land that has been abundantly blessed of God is fast filling up the cup of its iniquity. The figures on the side of iniquity are rapidly reaching the sum of corruption which was reached by the Amorites, and by the Jewish nation, once the elect people of God. In the days of Christ they made void the law of God, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men, and this led them to reject the Son of God. When the people accept and exalt a spurious sabbath, and turn souls away from obedience and loyalty to God, they will reach the point that was reached by the people in the days of Christ.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 30
Oh, if the world could only know this perilous fact, and turn away from the course which they are pursuing! How short-sighted is the policy that is being brought in by the rulers in the land to restore to the man of sin his lost ascendancy! They are manifesting wonderful zeal in taking this spurious sabbath under the care and protection of their legislatures, but they know not what they are doing. They are placing upon a false sabbath divine honors, and when this is fully done, persecution will break forth upon those who observe the Sabbath that God gave in Eden as a memorial of His creative power. Then the commandments of men will be clothed with sacred garments, and will be pronounced holy.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 31
Shall anyone then choose to hide his banner, to relax his devotion? Shall the people whom God has honored and blessed and prospered refuse to bear testimony in behalf of God’s memorial at the very time when such a testimony should be borne? Shall not the commandments of God be more highly esteemed when men pour contempt upon the law of God?11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 32
Medical missionaries must be sent into all parts of the world to carry relief to suffering humanity. The president of our General Conference asks, Shall we build or shall we not build? Shall we provide a building to accommodate our students who are being educated for medical missionary work? We answer, There will be no need of building in a short time. If our people will heed the light that God has given them, and will move out of Battle Creek, ample room will be provided for our students who are connected with the Sanitarium. Too many responsibilities now center in Battle Creek. A shaking will take place there, and people will not crowd so constantly and so persistently into Battle Creek as they have done in the past irrespective of the warnings of God. We have not the men to fill positions of trust who will carry forward the work successfully; but let those who remain in Battle Creek be faithful sentinels in carrying the light to other towns and cities. They could do a work for the Master by letting their light shine forth.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 33
When the law of God is being made void, when His name is dishonored, when it is considered disloyal to the laws of the land to keep the seventh day as the Sabbath, when wolves in sheep’s clothing, through blindness of mind and hardness of heart, are seeking to compel the conscience, shall we give up our loyalty to God? No, no. The wrongdoer is filled with a satanic hatred against those who are loyal to the commandments of God, but the value of God’s law as a rule of conduct must be made manifest.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 34
The zeal of those who obey the Lord will be increased as the world and the church unite in making void the law. They will say with the Psalmist, “As for me I love thy commandments above gold, yea; above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:127.] This is what will be sure to occur when the law of God is made void by a national act. When Sunday is exalted and sustained by law, then the principle that actuates the people of God will be made manifest, as the principle of the three Hebrews was made manifest when Nebuchadnezzar commanded them to worship the golden image in the plain of Dura. We can see what our duty is when the truth is overborne by falsehood.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 35
The law of God cannot be made void by the law of a nation. When the law is trampled in the dust, the sacredness of the commandments of God will be vindicated by those who are loyal to Him. We are to make no railing accusation against the nations, for this would close our way so that we could not set the light before the people. Every objection raised against the commandments of God will make a way for the advancement of truth, and enable its advocates to present its value before men. There is a beauty and force in the truth that nothing can make so apparent as opposition and persecution. When this is revealed, many will be converted to the truth.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 36
Many who profess the truth do not know its preciousness, nor realize the richness of the assurances God has given. And they will not understand this until they are pressed into places of difficulty. But then they will understand what the Saviour means when He says, “I will manifest myself unto them.” [John 14:21.] When surrounded by those who have not the love of God, the Christian will realize how precious it is to have communion with God, and to obtain views of eternal redemption.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 37
Day by day we are to learn by searching the Scriptures that God does not exalt one man for the purpose of controlling the minds and the practices of another. Everything that is done to direct people to follow the sayings and observe the customs of men, in opposition to what the Lord has said, is wrong. Those who dare to take the guidance of men, should understand that these very men need to be guided by that voice which has said that there is to be no lording it over God’s heritage. We have need of broadminded, deep-thinking men; but we do not need men who, because they are in positions of trust, will think that they should put the yoke upon their fellow men. Those who think that their position gives them this authority had better become Bible students.11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, par. 38
The end [purpose] of all government was beautifully set forth by the Lord in the symbol of a tree that gave shelter to the beasts of the field and to the birds of the air. Nebuchadnezzar was at one time a superior ruler, a man more compassionate toward his subjects than was the ruler of any other heathen nation, and his rule was symbolized by a lofty tree. But the man who thinks it is his prerogative to command his fellow men, and says, You shall, and, You shall not, is entirely out of his place. He takes upon him that which was never given him, and lords it over God’s purchased possession. Every man is accountable to God for his actions. The man in a position of trust who is guided by the Spirit of God will always protect the weak, relieve the needy, and look after the widow and the fatherless.Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1237—Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by John Bell—Part II
17MR 7.1
“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters” [Revelation 14:6, 7].17MR 9.2
The message of Revelation 14, proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.17MR 15.1
It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of Revelation 14 are those by which the world is to be tested; they are the everlasting gospel, and are to be sounded everywhere. But the Lord does not lay upon those who have not had an experience in His work the burden of making a new exposition of those prophecies which He has, by His Holy Spirit, moved upon His chosen servants to explain.17MR 18.2
God has warned His people of the perils before them. John beholds the things which will be in the last days, and he sees a people working counter to God. Read Revelation 12:17; 14:10-13, and chapters 17 and 13. John sees the company who have been deceived. He says, “I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame” [Revelation 16:13-15].17MR 22.2
“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). Here we stand, under the third angel’s message. “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities” [Revelation 18:1-5].Maranatha
The Truth Will Triumph, January 10
Mar 18.2
The message of Revelation 14, proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning....Maranatha
The Sabbath Proclaimed More Fully, June 11
Mar 170.1
I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. Revelation 14:6, 7.Mar 170.4
[The angel of Revelation 14] presents a message that is to be proclaimed to the world just before Christ comes in the clouds of heaven.... Just prior to this time, then, the attention of the people is to be called to the down-trodden law of God, which is contained in the ark of the testament....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 93, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 93, 1896, par. 5
“Ye are the salt of the earth. But what if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted?” [Verse 13.] Read Revelation; read from the beginning to the close. Not only read, but study most earnestly, determined to understand. “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.” [Revelation 1:3.] Read chapter 2:1-6. There is to be a doing of the first work, “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works, or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place except thou repent.” [Verses 4, 5.] See also chapter 3:1-8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 56, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 56, 1896, par. 10
I cannot write more; I must close. I will have some things sent by next mail. Study Revelation in connection with Daniel, for history will be repeated. We must be true and faithful amid the iniquity that abounds. At no period of time are we in so much danger as when prosperity seems to crown our efforts. Self must be hidden in God. We are living amid the perils of the last days, and many of us are insensible to the perils that threaten our world. We, with all our religious advantages, ought to know far more today than we do know. “Watch therefore,” said Jesus, “for ye know not when the time is. Be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.” [Mark 13:33; Matthew 24:42, 44.] “Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish.” [Luke 13:3.] The right hand is to be cut off; the right eye is to be plucked out. There is hidden depravity that needs to be carefully considered and uprooted. God help us individually to purify our souls by obeying the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 59, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 59, 1896, par. 7
It was the Lion of the tribe of Judah who unsealed the book and gave to John the revelation of what should be in these last days. Daniel stood in his lot to bear his testimony, which was sealed until the time of the end, when the first angel’s message should be proclaimed to our world. These matters are of infinite importance in these last days, but while “many shall be purified, and made white, and tried,” “the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand.” [Verse 10.] How true this is. Sin is the transgression of the law of God, and those in the denominational churches who will not accept the light in regard to the law of God, will not understand the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. The book of Daniel is unsealed in the revelation to John, and carries us forward to the last scenes of this earth’s history.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 75, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 75, 1897, par. 1
Those who accept Christ will follow on to know the Lord. This acceptance means conversion through the Holy Spirit’s power and efficiency. The working of the Holy Spirit upon the human agent brings to him a conviction of sin, makes him susceptible to truth, [and] enables him to discern and make earnest application of it to his own heart. This power preserves him from falling under temptation, and imparts to him wisdom in winning souls to Christ. And every true believer who will follow on to know the Lord will have this power working in him. He will discern in Christ not only the Alpha of Genesis, but the Omega of Revelation. He will learn by personal experience that Christ is the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star, and that it is through His church, His people in their unity, that He is to shine in undimmed luster to the world. He beholds himself as the work of Christ. Having the mind of Christ, he walks in His footsteps, and his good works and love for others testify to the world that He is Christ, that God has sent His Son to impart His Spirit to His people, and that they may represent Christ in their love for one another.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 1, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 1, 1897, par. 1
I am drawn out to address you. I am in great travail of soul for our people. We are living amid the perils of the last days. A superficial faith results in a superficial experience. There is a repentance that needs to be repented of. All genuine experience in religious doctrines will bear the impress of Jehovah. All should see the necessity of understanding the truth for themselves individually. We must each understand the doctrines that have been studied out carefully and prayerfully. It has been revealed to me that there is among our people a great lack of knowledge in regard to the rise and progress of the third angel’s message. There is great need to search the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation, and learn the texts thoroughly, that we may know what is written.Maranatha
Second Angel’s Message to Be Repeated, June 12
Mar 171.1
There followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Revelation 14:8.Mar 171.2
The second angel’s message of Revelation 14 was first preached in the summer of 1844, and it then had a more direct application to the churches of the United States, where the warning of the judgment had been most widely proclaimed and most generally rejected, and where the declension in the churches had been most rapid. But the message of the second angel did not reach its complete fulfillment in 1844. The churches then experienced a moral fall, in consequence of their refusal of the light of the advent message; but that fall was not complete. As they have continued to reject the special truths for this time they have fallen lower and lower. Not yet, however, can it be said that “Babylon is fallen, ... because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” She has not yet made all nations do this.31The Great Controversy, 389.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 107, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 107, 1897, par. 2
But much ignorance of Scripture prevails, even among those that preach the Word. Well-educated, intelligent men preach at the Word, and around the Word, but they do not touch the inner meaning of the Word. They do not present truth in its genuine simplicity. These men, considering themselves authority, tell their hearers that they cannot understand either Daniel or Revelation. Many ministers make no effort to explain Revelation. They call it an unprofitable book to study. They regard it as a sealed book, because it contains the record of figures and symbols. But the very name that has been given it—“Revelation”—is a denial of this supposition. Revelation is a sealed book, but it is also an opened book. It records marvelous events, that are to take place in the last days of this earth’s history. The teachings of this book are definite, not mystical and unintelligible. In it the same line of prophecy is taken up as in Daniel. Some prophecies God has repeated, this showing that importance must be given to them. The Lord does not repeat things that are of no great consequence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 52, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 52, 1897, par. 2
After His crucifixion and resurrection, thousands would be led to open the Scriptures with an intense desire to study the prophecies, from Genesis to Revelation. And they would see with anointed eyes the predictions in the prophetic Roll of the advent of a divine Teacher. In Christ crucified they would see the very work done which the prophecies declared He would do to proclaim the gospel, the Word of life to a world that was shadowed and corrupted by transgression and sin. And the words of Christ would be gathered up; the New Testament would declare to them a work which would thrill the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 33, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 33, 1897, par. 3
Christ has given us the truth in Daniel and Revelation. In this age we can see the necessity of drawing men to Christ. This draws them to one another in that confidence, that love, that unity, for which Christ prayed in His last prayer with and for His disciples. This unity was essential for their spiritual growth. This world is a battle field, upon which the powers of good and evil are in ceaseless warfare.12LtMs, Ms 33, 1897, par. 26
Read and become faithful students of the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation. The Revelation is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches: He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” Again this is repeated, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches: To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth save he which receiveth it.” [Revelation 1:1-3; 2:11, 17.]12LtMs, Ms 33, 1897, par. 30
When the students of prophecy shall set their hearts to know the truths of Revelation, they will realize what an importance is attached to this search. Christ Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the Genesis of the Old Testament, and the Revelation of the New. Both meet together in Christ. Adam and God are reconciled by the obedience of the second Adam, who accomplished the work of overcoming the temptations of Satan and redeeming Adam’s disgraceful failure and fall. The two Adams will meet in Paradise and embrace each other, while the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet, and all who have refused the opportunities and privileges given to them at such an infinite cost, and have not returned to their loyalty, will be shut out of Paradise.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 11, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 2
God has chosen a people who are to proclaim the third angel’s message to the world. They are to be a separate and peculiar people in this world of churches who are transgressing His commandments. We have a special work to do to prepare the people for the greatest event the world has ever seen. The books of Daniel and Revelation are of great consequence to us, and should be studied with great earnestness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 21, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 29
Here we have the Alpha of Genesis and the Omega of Revelation. The blessing is promised to all those who keep the commandments of God, and who co-operate with Him in the proclamation of the third angel’s message. “I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning Star.” [Revelation 22:16.] That which Christ has spoken in the Old Testament is for all the world. What He has said in reference is His commandments is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen.12LtMs, Ms 21, 1897, par. 40
Those who make light of the third angel’s message do it because they know little of Daniel or Revelation. They have not read with a determination to find out the meaning by prayer, by study, and by fasting. If they had had the experience of Daniel or of John, they would know that the third angel’s message will go forth unto perfect victory. Those who proclaim that message because they see and believe it will understand that very much is comprehended in it. The third angel is represented as flying through the heavens with a banner on which is inscribed “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] All who will gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their defection, and loyalty from their treason, will triumph with the third angel’s message.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 163, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 3
John was directed by the “Alpha and Omega” [Revelation 1:11] to a people who in the last days were making void the law of God. But these churches, who have drank deeply of the wine of Babylon are to receive a startling message of truth which will reveal to them their true position. The loud cry, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication,” has been, and will again be, given. [Revelation 14:8.]12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 4
“And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his make in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone, in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever; and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.” [Verses 9-11.]12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 6
In (Revelation 14) John beholds another scene. He sees a people whose fidelity and loyalty to the laws of God’s kingdom, grow with the emergency. The contempt placed upon the law of God only makes them reveal more decidedly their love for that law. It increases with the contempt that is placed upon it. This commandment-keeping people place in song the declaration of their faith as did the psalmist: “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] Their happy voices are upraised as they echo the words of the psalmist, “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity, they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes. Then shall I not be ashamed when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned all thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes, O forsake me not utterly.” [Psalm 119:1-8.]12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 18
The everlasting gospel is to be proclaimed. “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made the heavens, and earth, and the sea, and the fountain of waters.” [Revelation 14:6, 7.] The attention of the people is to be called to the long neglected oracles of God. All kindreds and nations and people are to be aroused. Their minds are to be stirred, their attention called to the Word of God. Men are to hear the message that proclaims the soon coming of Christ. All are to open their eyes, and unstop their ears, and hear the message of the first angel, “Fear God, and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come, and worship him that made heaven and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 20
Here we are taught that finite man is not to be placed where God should be. He is not to be honored as a god, or to be bowed down to. “Worship him that made heaven and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.” [Revelation 14:7.] The man of sin is worshiped in the person of the pope, and his representative, the cardinal. But God has not given this power to pope or prelate. The pope is not regarded by God as anything more than a man who is acting out in our world the character of the man of sin, representing in his claims that power and authority which Satan claimed in the heavenly courts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 185, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 185, 1897, par. 1
I am in great travail of soul for our people. We are living in the perils of the last days. A superficial faith results in a superficial experience. There is a repentance that needs to be repented of. All genuine experience in religious doctrines will bear the impress of Jehovah. All should see the necessity of understanding the truth for themselves individually. We must understand the doctrines that have been studied out carefully and prayerfully. It has been revealed to me that there is among our people a great lack of knowledge in regard to the rise and progress of the third angel’s message. There is great need to search the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation, and to learn the texts thoroughly, that we may know what is written.Christ Triumphant
Search the Scriptures to Confirm Truth, December 1
CTr 342.5
It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of Revelation 14 are those by which the world is to be tested; they are the everlasting gospel and are to be sounded everywhere.—Manuscript 32, 1896 (Manuscript Releases 17:12-15).Maranatha
Symbolism of the Three Angels’ Messages, June 14
Mar 173.3
This warning is brought to view in Revelation 14. Here is a threefold message represented as proclaimed by heavenly beings and immediately followed by the coming of the Son of man to reap “the harvest of the earth.” 35The Great Controversy, 311.Mar 173.6
Revelation 18 points to the time when, as the result of rejecting the threefold warning of Revelation 14:6-12, the church will have fully reached the condition foretold by the second angel, and the people of God still in Babylon will be called upon to separate from her communion. This message is the last that will ever be given to the world; and it will accomplish its work. When those that “believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness” (2 Thessalonians 2:12), shall be left to receive strong delusion and to believe a lie, then the light of truth will shine upon all whose hearts are open to receive it, and all the children of the Lord that remain in Babylon will heed the call: “Come out of her, my people” (Revelation 18:4).38The Great Controversy, 390.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 157, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 157, 1897, par. 13
Brother Haskell has great liberty in opening the Scriptures to others. He gives opportunity to all. The first class is in the morning meeting at six o’clock. Then there will be other lessons given by Elder Haskell. At ten o’clock Sister Haskell gives lessons from Revelation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 69, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 69, 1897, par. 15
Our youth must have well-conducted schools, where they can gain an all-round education. From Genesis to Revelation the gospel shines forth with no uncertain light. From the time when God talked with Adam and Eve in Eden, giving them heavenly instruction, the light has continued to shine down through the ages. Christ appeared to His servant John, and gave him a revelation of the closing events of this earth’s history.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 141, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 141, 1897, par. 39
Daniel and Revelation must be studied, as well as the other prophecies of the Old and New Testament. Let there be light, yes, light in your dwellings. For this we need to pray. The Holy Spirit, shining upon the sacred page, will open our understanding, that we may know what is truth. We can appropriately say, as said the disciples, when Jesus walked with them on their way to Emmaus after He had risen from the dead. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. And “they said one to another, Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 98a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 98a, 1897, par. 49
All who join the ranks of Sabbathkeepers should become diligent Bible students, that they may know the pillars and ground work of the truth. They should study prophetic history, which has brought us down point by point to where we are at the present time. This is God’s plan for our school. Young men should attend who desire to become educated for any line of work, who have capabilities and see the necessity of learning more and still more where we stand today in prophetic history, uniting link after link in the prophetic chain, even from Genesis to Revelation. Christ is the Alpha, the first link, and the Omega, the last link, of the gospel chain, which is welded in Revelation. These young men will not have fixed habits of wrong, or defects in disposition and character that will make them inflexible.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 41, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 5
God has shown His people what is truth. He has opened to them the books of Daniel and Revelation, which set forth the truth for this time. Those who have closed their ears and their understanding to this truth, have imitated the people who in Christ’s day would not receive the light. Evidence may be piled upon evidence, but men’s hearts may be so hardened by the deceitfulness of sin that evidence, though greatly increased, will prove nothing to them, because it is not proof they want, but their own way.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 89, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 5
Daniel and the Revelation should be gotten out in little books and made as simple as possible. This should be given to every church, and to the people scattered everywhere. It is not a money making scheme, but it will bring in means to invest in getting out other books. Elder Haskell has a whole treasure house of precious things, and he should be tenderly cherished, and everything provided for him that will help him in his work. These precious things should be taken down in shorthand, and given to our people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 132, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 132, 1898, par. 1
The Bible lies at the foundation of all true education. The faithful student finds that Scripture can only be tested by Scripture. There is no contradiction in the Word of God. The entire revelation which Jesus Christ gave to John is rehearsed by Moses in the Exodus, and in the plagues which the Lord brought upon Egypt.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 123, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 123, 1898, par. 7
This is our work. The light that we have upon the third angel’s message is the true light. The mark of the beast is exactly what it has been proclaimed to be. All in regard to this matter is not yet understood, and will not be understood until the unrolling of the scroll; but a most solemn work is to be accomplished in our world. “Cry aloud; spare not; lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sin.” [Verse 1.] A message is to be given to arouse the churches. Every effort is to be made to give the light not only to our people, but to the world. I have been given light that the prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are to be printed in small books, with the necessary explanations, and sent all through the world. Our own people need to have the light in clearer lines before them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 180, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 180, 1898, par. 4
We are seeing and feeling that there is much to be done, and may the Lord strengthen and bless us all to do His work intelligently. We need to study the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation more earnestly. The truth we need is revealed in Revelation.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Revelation 14:1
From the Heart
Victory at Last! November 16
FH 332.1
Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. Revelation 14:1.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Same Assurance to the Remnant Church
2TT 351.1
In like manner, when God was about to open to the beloved John the history of the church for future ages, He gave him an assurance of the Saviour’s interest and care for His people by revealing to him “One like unto the Son of man,” walking among the candlesticks, which symbolized the seven churches. While John was shown the last great struggles of the church with earthly powers, he was also permitted to behold the final victory and deliverance of the faithful. He saw the church brought into deadly conflict with the beast and his image, and the worship of that beast enforced on pain of death. But looking beyond the smoke and din of the battle, he beheld a company upon Mount Zion with the Lamb, having, instead of the mark of the beast, the “Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. And again he saw “them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God” and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb.