EGW WritingsRomans 7

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 21, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, par. 4

“Know ye not, brethren, for I speak to them that know the law, how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he liveth. But if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress. But if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ, that he should be married to another, even to him that is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sin, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held, that we should serve him in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.” [Romans 7:1-6.]

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 35—Salvation to the Jews

AA 372.1

After many unavoidable delays, Paul at last reached Corinth, the scene of so much anxious labor in the past, and for a time the object of deep solicitude. He found that many of the early believers still regarded him with affection as the one who had first borne to them the light of the gospel. As he greeted these disciples and saw the evidences of their fidelity and zeal he rejoiced that his work in Corinth had not been in vain.

AA 372.2

The Corinthian believers, once so prone to lose sight of their high calling in Christ, had developed strength of Christian character. Their words and acts revealed the transforming power of the grace of God, and they were now a strong force for good in that center of heathenism and superstition. In the society of his beloved companions and these faithful converts the apostle’s worn and troubled spirit found rest.

AA 373.1

During his sojourn at Corinth, Paul found time to look forward to new and wider fields of service. His contemplated journey to Rome especially occupied his thoughts. To see the Christian faith firmly established at the great center of the known world was one of his dearest hopes and most cherished plans. A church had already been established in Rome, and the apostle desired to secure the co-operation of the believers there in the work to be accomplished in Italy and in other countries. To prepare the way for his labors among these brethren, many of whom were as yet strangers to him, he sent them a letter announcing his purpose of visiting Rome and his hope of planting the standard of the cross in Spain.

AA 373.2

In his epistle to the Romans, Paul set forth the great principles of the gospel. He stated his position on the questions which were agitating the Jewish and the Gentile churches, and showed that the hopes and promises which had once belonged especially to the Jews were now offered to the Gentiles also.

AA 373.3

With great clearness and power the apostle presented the doctrine of justification by faith in Christ. He hoped that other churches also might be helped by the instruction sent to the Christians at Rome; but how dimly could he foresee the far-reaching influence of his words! Through all the ages the great truth of justification by faith has stood as a mighty beacon to guide repentant sinners into the way of life. It was this light that scattered the darkness which enveloped Luther’s mind and revealed to him the power of the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin. The same light has guided thousands of sin-burdened souls to the true Source of pardon and peace. For the epistle to the church at Rome, every Christian has reason to thank God.

AA 374.1

In this letter Paul gave free expression to his burden in behalf of the Jews. Ever since his conversion, he had longed to help his Jewish brethren to gain a clear understanding of the gospel message. “My heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is,” he declared, “that they might be saved.”

AA 374.2

It was no ordinary desire that the apostle felt. Constantly he was petitioning God to work in behalf of the Israelites who had failed to recognize Jesus of Nazareth as the promised Messiah. “I say the truth in Christ,” he assured the believers at Rome, “my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: who are Israelites, to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed forever.”

AA 374.3

The Jews were God’s chosen people, through whom He had purposed to bless the entire race. From among them God had raised up many prophets. These had foretold the advent of a Redeemer who was to be rejected and slain by those who should have been the first to recognize Him as the Promised One.

AA 375.1

The prophet Isaiah, looking down through the centuries and witnessing the rejection of prophet after prophet and finally of the Son of God, was inspired to write concerning the acceptance of the Redeemer by those who had never before been numbered among the children of Israel. Referring to this prophecy, Paul declares: “Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought Me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after Me. But to Israel He saith, All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.”

AA 375.2

Even though Israel rejected His Son, God did not reject them. Listen to Paul as he continues the argument: “I say then, Hath God cast away His people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away His people which He foreknew. Wot ye not what the Scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, Lord, they have killed Thy prophets, and digged down Thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to Myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.”

AA 375.3

Israel had stumbled and fallen, but this did not make it impossible for them to rise again. In answer to the question, “Have they stumbled that they should fall?” the apostle replies: “God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fullness? For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: if by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?”

AA 376.1

It was God’s purpose that His grace should be revealed among the Gentiles as well as among the Israelites. This had been plainly outlined in Old Testament prophecies. The apostle uses some of these prophecies in his argument. “Hath not the potter power over the clay,” he inquires, “of the same lump to make one vessel unto honor, and another unto dishonor? What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? As He saith also in Osee, I will call them My people, which were not My people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not My people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.” See Hosea 1:10.

AA 376.2

Notwithstanding Israel’s failure as a nation, there remained among them a goodly remnant of such as should be saved. At the time of the Saviour’s advent there were faithful men and women who had received with gladness the message of John the Baptist, and had thus been led to study anew the prophecies concerning the Messiah. When the early Christian church was founded, it was composed of these faithful Jews who recognized Jesus of Nazareth as the one for whose advent they had been longing. It is to this remnant that Paul refers when he writes, “If the first fruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.”

AA 377.1

Paul likens the remnant in Israel to a noble olive tree, some of whose branches have been broken off. He compares the Gentiles to branches from a wild olive tree, grafted into the parent stock. “If some of the branches be broken off,” he writes to the Gentile believers, “and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high-minded, but fear: for if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest He also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in His goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.”

AA 377.2

Through unbelief and the rejection of Heaven’s purpose for her, Israel as a nation had lost her connection with God. But the branches that had been separated from the parent stock God was able to reunite with the true stock of Israel—the remnant who had remained true to the God of their fathers. “They also,” the apostle declares of these broken branches, “if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.” “If thou,” he writes to the Gentiles, “wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.

AA 378.1

“And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: for this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins. As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father’s sakes. For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. For God had concluded them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all.

AA 378.2

“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counselor? or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever.”

AA 379.1

Thus Paul shows that God is abundantly able to transform the hearts of Jew and Gentile alike, and to grant to every believer in Christ the blessings promised to Israel. He repeats Isaiah’s declaration concerning God’s people: “Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: for He will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma and been made like unto Gomorrah.”

AA 379.2

At the time when Jerusalem was destroyed and the temple laid in ruins, many thousands of the Jews were sold to serve as bondmen in heathen lands. Like wrecks on a desert shore they were scattered among the nations. For eighteen hundred years the Jews have wandered from land to land throughout the world, and in no place have they been given the privilege of regaining their ancient prestige as a nation. Maligned, hated, persecuted, from century to century theirs has been a heritage of suffering.

AA 379.3

Notwithstanding the awful doom pronounced upon the Jews as a nation at the time of their rejection of Jesus of Nazareth, there have lived from age to age many noble, God-fearing Jewish men and women who have suffered in silence. God has comforted their hearts in affliction and has beheld with pity their terrible situation. He has heard the agonizing prayers of those who have sought Him with all the heart for a right understanding of His word. Some have learned to see in the lowly Nazarene whom their forefathers rejected and crucified, the true Messiah of Israel. As their minds have grasped the significance of the familiar prophecies so long obscured by tradition and misinterpretation, their hearts have been filled with gratitude to God for the unspeakable gift He bestows upon every human being who chooses to accept Christ as a personal Saviour.

AA 380.1

It is to this class that Isaiah referred in his prophecy, “A remnant shall be saved.” From Paul’s day to the present time, God by His Holy Spirit has been calling after the Jew as well as the Gentile. “There is no respect of persons with God,” declared Paul. The apostle regarded himself as “debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians,” as well as to the Jews; but he never lost sight of the decided advantages possessed by the Jews over others, “chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.” “The gospel,” he declared, “is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” It is of this gospel of Christ, equally efficacious for Jew and Gentile, that Paul in his epistle to the Romans declared he was not ashamed.

AA 380.2

When this gospel shall be presented in its fullness to the Jews, many will accept Christ as the Messiah. Among Christian ministers there are only a few who feel called upon to labor for the Jewish people; but to those who have been often passed by, as well as to all others, the message of mercy and hope in Christ is to come.

AA 381.1

In the closing proclamation of the gospel, when special work is to be done for classes of people hitherto neglected, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people whom they find in all parts of the earth. As the Old Testament Scriptures are blended with the New in an explanation of Jehovah’s eternal purpose, this will be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a new creation, the resurrection of the soul. As they see the Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed in the pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, and perceive how clearly the New Testament explains the Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused, and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. Many will by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. To them will be fulfilled the words, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12.

AA 381.2

Among the Jews are some who, like Saul of Tarsus, are mighty in the Scriptures, and these will proclaim with wonderful power the immutability of the law of God. The God of Israel will bring this to pass in our day. His arm is not shortened that it cannot save. As His servants labor in faith for those who have long been neglected and despised, His salvation will be revealed.

AA 382.1

“Thus saith the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall not now be ashamed, neither shall his face now wax pale. But when he seeth his children, the work of Mine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify My name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel. They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.” Isaiah 29:22-24.

The General Conference Bulletin

December 1, 1895

GCB December 1, 1895, Art. A, par. 6

Yet the hunger of the soul is unsatisfied. You would fain feed on the husks that the swine do eat. You try to content yourself with that which ministers to the carnal and earthly nature, but you know that you are spending money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfies not. Alone in the far country you feel your wretchedness, and in despair you cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7.24.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 35—God’s Special Plan for the Jews

TT 195.1

After many delays, Paul reached Corinth, the scene of much labor in the past. Many of the early believers still regarded with affection the one who had first borne to them the gospel. As he saw the evidences of their fidelity, he rejoiced that his work in Corinth had not been in vain. The Corinthian believers had developed strength of Christian character and were now a strong force for good in that center of heathenism and superstition. In the society of these faithful converts, the apostle’s worn and troubled spirit found rest.

TT 195.2

At Corinth Paul’s contemplated journey to Rome especially occupied his thoughts. To see the Christian faith firmly established at the great center of the known world was one of his dearest hopes. The apostle desired the cooperation of the church already established in Rome in the work to be accomplished in Italy and other countries. To prepare the way he sent these brethren a letter announcing his purpose of visiting Rome and his hope of planting the standard of the cross in Spain.

TT 195.3

In his letter, with clearness and power Paul presented the doctrine of justification by faith in Christ. He hoped that other churches also might be helped by the instruction, but how dimly could he foresee the far-reaching influence of his words! Through all the ages, the great truth of justification by faith has stood as a mighty beacon to guide sinners into the way of life. This light scattered the darkness which enveloped Luther’s mind and revealed to him the power of the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin. The same light has guided thousands to the true Source of pardon and peace.

TT 196.1

Ever since his conversion, Paul had longed to help his Jewish brethren gain a clear understanding of the gospel. “My heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is,” he declared, “that they might be saved.” The Israelites had failed to recognize Jesus of Nazareth as the promised Messiah. Paul assured the believers at Rome, “I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh.” Through the Jews God had purposed to bless the entire human race. Among them many prophets had foretold the advent of a Redeemer who was to be rejected and slain by those who should have recognized Him as the Promised One.

TT 196.2

But even though Israel rejected His Son, God did not reject them. Paul continues: “I say then, Hath God cast away His people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away His people which He foreknew... . At this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.”

TT 196.3

Israel had stumbled and fallen, but this did not make it impossible for them to rise again. In answer to the question, “Have they stumbled that they should fall?” the apostle replies: “God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy... . For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?”

TT 196.4

It was God’s purpose that His grace should be revealed among the Gentiles as well as among the Israelites. “Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honor, and another unto dishonor?” he inquired. “What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory, even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?”

TT 197.2

Paul compares the Gentiles to branches from a wild olive tree, grafted into the parent stock. “If some of the branches be broken off,” he writes, “and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches... . Because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high-minded, but fear: for if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest He also spare not thee.”

TT 197.3

Through the rejection of Heaven’s purpose for her, Israel as a nation had lost her connection with God. But God was able to reunite with the true stock of Israel the branches that had been separated from the parent stock. “If you have been cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these natural branches be grafted back into their own olive tree... . A hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of Gentiles come in.”

TT 198.1

“And so all Israel will be saved... . For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. Just as you were once disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, so they have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may receive mercy” ... .

TT 198.3

God is abundantly able to transform the hearts of Jew and Gentile alike. “For the Lord will execute His sentence upon the earth with rigor and dispatch.” RSV.

TT 198.4

When Jerusalem was destroyed and the temple laid in ruins, many Jews were sold as bondmen in heathen lands, scattered among the nations like wrecks on a desert shore. Maligned, persecuted, from century to century theirs has been a heritage of suffering.

TT 198.5

Notwithstanding the doom pronounced upon the nation, there have lived from age to age many noble, God-fearing Jewish men and women. God has comforted their hearts in affliction and has beheld with pity their terrible situation. Some who have sought Him for a right understanding of His Word have learned to see in the lowly Nazarene the true Messiah. As their minds have grasped the significance of prophecies long obscured by tradition and misinterpretation, their hearts have been filled with gratitude to God for the unspeakable gift of Christ as a personal Saviour.

TT 198.6

Isaiah said in his prophecy, “A remnant shall be saved.” From Paul’s day to the present time, the Holy Spirit has been calling after the Jew as well as the Gentile. “God shows no partiality” (Galatians 2:6, RSV), declares Paul, “The gospel ... is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” This gospel is equally efficacious for Jew and Gentile.

TT 199.1

When this gospel shall be presented in its fullness to the Jews, many will accept Christ. Only a few Christian ministers feel called to labor for the Jewish people; but to those who have been often passed by, the message of Christ is to come.

TT 199.2

In the closing proclamation of the gospel, God expects His messengers to take particular interest in the Jewish people. As many of the Jews see the Christ of the gospel in the pages of the Old Testament and perceive how the New Testament explains the Old, they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of the world. To them will be fulfilled the words, “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12.

TT 199.3

Some Jews, like Saul of Tarsus, are mighty in the Scriptures, and these will proclaim with wonderful power the immutability of the law of God. The God of Israel will bring this to pass in our day. As His servants labor in faith for those who have long been neglected, His salvation will be revealed.

From Trials to Triumph

Those Who Fall Can Rise Again

TT 197.1

Notwithstanding Israel’s failure as a nation, there were faithful men and women who had received with gladness the message of John the Baptist and had thus been led to study anew the prophecies concerning the Messiah. The early Christian church was composed of these faithful Jews. To this “remnant” Paul refers: “If the dough offered as first fruits is holy, so is the whole lump; and if the root is holy, so are the branches.” Romans 11:16, RSV.

From Trials to Triumph

All Who Believe Are the True Israel

TT 198.2

“O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and how inscrutable His ways!” Romans 11:24-33, RSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 16, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 16, 1897, par. 14

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin?” (the sin is in the man, not in the law) “Is the law sin?” The answer comes, “God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.” [Romans 7:7-11.] Sin did not kill the law, but it did kill the carnal mind in Paul. “But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.” [Verse 6.]

12LtMs, Ms 16, 1897, par. 15

“Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceedingly sinful.” [Verses 12, 13.] Thus the law is our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. The words of David are an enlightenment to the understanding: “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. ... Moreover by them is thy servant warned, and in keeping of them there is great reward.” [Psalm 19:7, 8, 11.]

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 26—The Perfect Law

1SM 212.2

Paul’s testimony of the law is: “What shall we say then? Is the law sin [the sin is in the man, not in the law]? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me” (Romans 7:7-11).

1SM 213.1

Sin did not kill the law, but it did kill the carnal mind in Paul. “Now we are delivered from the law,” he declares, “that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter” (Romans 7:6). “Was that then which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful” (Romans 7:13). “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12). Paul calls the attention of his hearers to the broken law, and shows them wherein they are guilty. He instructs them as a schoolmaster instructs his scholars, and shows them the way back to their loyalty to God.

Faith and Works

What Sin Is

FW 31.2

The soul must first be convicted of sin before the sinner will feel a desire to come to Christ. “Sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). “I had not known sin, but by the law” (Romans 7:7). When the commandment came home to Saul’s conscience, sin revived, and he died. He saw himself condemned by the law of God. The sinner cannot be convinced of his guilt unless he understands what constitutes sin. It is impossible for an individual to experience Bible sanctification while he holds that if he believes in Christ it is immaterial whether he obeys God’s law or disobeys it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 3, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, par. 4

The work which parents should do is to show their children the remedy for sin and transgression, to exalt the law, and to show it’s binding claims upon every child and youth. Teach them that the cross of Christ did not abolish the law, for Paul declares, “I had not known sin but by the law.” [Romans 7:7.] The law and the gospel unite to save the souls of the perishing. The law is the instrument which convicts of sin, but has no saving qualities with which to save the transgressor of law. The condemnation of law is death to the sinner. “The soul that sinneth it shall die.” [Ezekiel 18:4.] But help has been laid upon One that is mighty. God sent His own Son into the world in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin in the flesh.

God’s Amazing Grace

The Ensign of Christ’s Kingdom, January 7

AG 15.5

The law and the gospel are in perfect harmony. Each upholds the other. In all its majesty the law confronts the conscience, causing the sinner to feel his need of Christ as the propitiation for sin. The gospel recognizes the power and immutability of the law. “I had not known sin, but by the law” (Romans 7:7), Paul declares. The sense of sin, urged home by the law, drives the sinner to the Saviour. In his need man may present the mighty arguments furnished by the cross of Calvary. He may claim the righteousness of Christ; for it is imparted to every repentant sinner.10Selected Messages 1:237-241.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Meditation and Prayer

GW92 111.1

Even some ministers who are advocating the law of God have but little knowledge of themselves. They do not meditate, and investigate their motives. They do not see their errors and sins, because they do not, in sincerity and earnestness, take a view of their life, their acts, and their character, separate and as a whole, and compare them with the sacred, holy law of God. The claims of God’s law are not really understood by them, and they are daily living in transgression of the spirit of that law which they profess to revere. “By the law,” Paul says, “is the knowledge of sin.” “I had not known sin, but by the law; for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.” [Romans 3:20; 7:7.] Some who labor in word and doctrine have not a practical understanding of the law of God and its holy claims, or of the atonement of Christ. They themselves need to be converted before they can convert sinners.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 32—The Righteousness of Christ in the Law

1SM 240.4

The law and the gospel are in perfect harmony. Each upholds the other. In all its majesty the law confronts the conscience, causing the sinner to feel his need of Christ as the propitiation for sin. The gospel recognizes the power and immutability of the law. “I had not known sin, but by the law,” Paul declares (Romans 7:7). The sense of sin, urged home by the law, drives the sinner to the Saviour. In his need man may present the mighty arguments furnished by the cross of Calvary. He may claim the righteousness of Christ; for it is imparted to every repentant sinner. God declares, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:37). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 35, 1877, par. 10

You again repeated that great and good men did not keep Saturday and you would risk it; if you did as the rest did you would come out all right, for you had a very merciful Father. I answered, “And because God is merciful, will you continue in sin that grace may abound? Paul answers: ‘God forbid. I had not known sin but by the law.’ [Romans 6:1; 7:7.]” I said, “Light is given and if those who see the light acknowledge the validity of the fourth commandment and would do as you claimed to be doing—risk the transgression of God’s law because the world did not keep it—I could not see how God could save them in their transgression of the fourth commandment, while they were trampling upon the Sabbath He sanctified and blessed and set apart for man to observe, any sooner than He could save a man who should steal or murder or commit adultery.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 22, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 22, 1885, par. 6

This man claims sanctification, but what kind? What is the nature of his sanctification? He has no moral standard, for he claims that God’s law is abolished. He has a standard of human origin; and by one of his own creating, he claims to be sanctified. But Jesus warns against just such men. Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. The apostle tells us, “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” [Romans 3:20.] Paul says, “I had not known sin but by the law.” [Romans 7:7.] This law of Jehovah, the great moral standard of righteousness does not suit the ways and practices of Elder Grant, and he has trampled it under his feet and erected a standard to suit himself.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

A Chosen People

1888 130.4

Paul declares, “I had not known sin, but by the law.... I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died” (Romans 7:7-9). The commandments remained the same, but Paul died.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 19, 1887

5LtMs, Lt 19, 1887, par. 12

“The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” [James 3:18.] Paul says that as touching the law, as far as outward acts were concerned, he was blameless [Philippians 3:6]; but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, and when he looked into the holy mirror, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by a human standard he had abstained from sin, but when he looked into the depths of God’s law and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation and confessed his guilt. He did not go away from the mirror and forget what manner of man he was, but he exercised genuine repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. He was washed, he was cleansed. He says, “I had not known sin except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived and I died.” [Romans 7:7-9.] Sin then appeared in its true hideousness, and his self-esteem was gone; he was humble. He no longer ascribed goodness and merit to himself. He ceased to think more highly of himself than he ought to think and ascribed all the glory to God. He was no longer sensitive to reproach, neglect, or contempt. He no longer sought earthly alliance, station, or honor. He did not pull others down to uplift himself. He became gentle, condescending, meek, and lowly of heart because he had learned his lesson in the school of Christ. He talked of Jesus and His matchless love, grew more and more into His matchless image. He bent his whole energy to win souls to Christ. When trial came upon him because of his unselfish love for souls, he bowed in prayer, and his love for them increased. His life was hid with Christ in God, and he loved Jesus with all the ardor of his nature. Every church was dear to him; every church member was a person of interest to him, for he looked upon every soul as the purchase of the blood of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 17, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 17, 1888, par. 9

Paul declares, “I had not known sin but by the law. ... I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” [Romans 7:7-9.] The commandments remained the same, but Paul died.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 1c, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 1c, 1890, par. 21

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22, 23. “The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” James 3:18. Paul says that as touching the law—as far as outward acts were concerned—he was blameless [Philippians 3:6]; but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, when he looked into the holy mirror, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by a human standard he had abstained from sin; but when he looked into the depths of God’s law and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation and confessed his guilt. He did not go away from the mirror and forget what manner of man he was, but he exercised genuine repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. He was washed, he was cleansed. He says, “I had not known lust, except the law had said, ‘Thou shalt not covet.’ But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive with the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Romans 7:7-9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 105, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 105, 1900, par. 8

The law of God is to be presented in its true bearing. Paul bears testimony regarding this law. “What shall we say then?” he asks. “Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin but by the law,” which is the detector of sin. “For I had not known lust except the law has said, Thou shall not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.” [Romans 7:7-11.]

15LtMs, Lt 105, 1900, par. 9

Because of this does Paul say, Have nothing to do with the law? Oh no; this is not his conclusion. Sin is the transgression of the law, and by the law is the knowledge of sin. Paul saw sin in all its hideous deformity. The law pointed him to Christ, the Healer of sin which is repented of and confessed. “Wherefore,” Paul declared, “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Verse 12.] Why then do men in their transgression oppose the law of God? Because it condemns sin.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 53—Transformation Through Faith and Obedience

1SM 347.1

There are many who cry, “Believe, only believe.” Ask them what you are to believe. Are you to believe the lies forged by Satan against God’s holy, just, and good law? God does not use His great and precious grace to make of none effect His law, but to establish His law. What is the decision of Paul? He says: “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law.... For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and [the commandment then ended?—No.] I [Paul] died.... Wherefore the law is [standing directly in the way of my having liberty and peace?—No.] holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:7-12).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 150, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 28

Today the Holy Spirit works upon some who are not as self-confident as this young ruler. There are men and women who are truly converted, as was Paul. He says, “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence; for without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained into life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.” [Romans 7:7-12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 2, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 2, 1900, par. 4

The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who, like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, “I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained unto life, I found to be unto death.” [Romans 7:9, 10.] “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay; I had not known sin but by the law; for I had not known lust except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. ... Wherefore the law is holy and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Verses 7, 12.]

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

MR No. 733—Results of Adam’s Sin

9MR 229.4

The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.” “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.” “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:9, 10, 7, 12).—Manuscript 2, 1900, pp. 1, 2. (“The Need of a Reformation,” January 2, 1900.)

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 32—The Law and the Covenants

PP 365.2

Concerning the law proclaimed from Sinai, Nehemiah says, “Thou camest down also upon Mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments.” Nehemiah 9:13. And Paul, “the apostle to the Gentiles,” declares, “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. This can be no other than the Decalogue; for it is the law that says, “Thou shalt not covet.” Verse 7.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 22—Modern Revivals

4SP 297.1

The apostle Paul, in relating his experience, presents an important truth concerning the work to be wrought in conversion. He says, “I was alive without the law once,”—he felt no condemnation; “but when the commandment came,” when the law of God was urged upon his conscience, “sin revived, and I died.” [Romans 7:9.] Then he saw himself a sinner, condemned by the divine law. Mark, it was Paul, and not the law, that died. He says, further, “I had not known sin, but by the law; for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.” [Romans 7:7.] “The commandment which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.” [Romans 7:10.] The law which promised life to the obedient, pronounced death upon the transgressor. “Wherefore,” he says, “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 4a, 1898

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

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid.” The apostle decidedly denies the assertion. “Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law; for I had not known lust except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law, sin was dead.” [Romans 7:7, 8.]

13LtMs, Ms 4a, 1898, par. 6

“For I was alive without the law once,” Paul continues: “but when the commandment came, sin revived, and (the law died? No;) I died. And the commandment, which was ordained unto life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it, slew me.” [Verses 9-11.] Because of this does Paul say, “I am opposed to the commandment”? No: he declares, “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, just, and good.” [Verse 12.]

13LtMs, Ms 4a, 1898, par. 7

“Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.” [Verse 13.] Here we are plainly shown that the commandments of God are true and righteous, and that they are to be honored and obeyed. Right down on this side of the crucifixion Paul declares, “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, just, and good.” [Verse 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 76, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 76, 1900, par. 17

Writing of his experience, Paul says, “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin but by the law; for I had not known lust expect the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. ... For I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” [Romans 7:7, 9.] Paul was alone in his own estimation. This is the great deception that is upon so many. The Bible is so casually read that the truth is not discerned. The commandments extend to our thoughts, our words, all the desires of the mind and heart. God receives them to be holy, just, and good. When the Holy Spirit did its work upon Paul’s heart, convincing him of sin, he applied the law in its spirituality and to its full extent. Sin revived, and he saw himself a sinner, and sin the increase of the power of guilt. This then killed the sinful life of Paul. The law is ordained to life to all who obey it, conforming the character to its holy requirements, but it is death to the transgressor.

15LtMs, Lt 76, 1900, par. 18

“I was alive without the law once; but when the commandment came, sin revived,”—was seen in its grievous, hateful character—“and I died. And the commandment which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.” [Verses 9-11.] Then did Paul say that the law in its condemning power was a curse, to be trampled under foot? No; no. “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know”—after the conviction of the enormity of sin—“that the law of spiritual; but I am carnal, sold under sin.” [Verses 12-14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 72, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, par. 10

Concerning this question, Paul relates his experience: “And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God.” [Acts 20:20, 21.] Why repentance toward God?—Because when His holy law has been transgressed through sin committed by the human agent, the law which condemns sin in the flesh brings to the sinner the conviction that he is a transgressor of the law, as Paul states: “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I [Paul] died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.” [Romans 7:9, 10.]

16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, par. 11

All who keep the law of God through moral power obtained from the imputed righteousness of Christ, will find the commandments ordained unto life; for “The man that doeth them shall live in them.” [Galatians 3:12.] “For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin [the transgression of the law], that it might appear sin, working death [to the carnal mind] in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” [Romans 7:11-14.]

16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, par. 17

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.” What is the decision of Paul?—“Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:7, 8, 12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 68, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 68, 1898, par. 12

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not know sin, but by the law; for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Ye shall not covet.” The Holy Spirit presents to the sinner the law, God’s only standard of character. “But sin, taking occasion by the commandment wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law, sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once, but then the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment which was ordained unto life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good. ... I delight in the law of God after the inward man.” [Romans 7:7-12, 22.]

Our Father Cares

The Need for a Reformation, October 1

OFC 286.3

What is humility? That sense of sin and unworthiness which leads to repentance. But we must be assured of the malignity of a disease before we feel our need of a cure. Those who do not realize the sinfulness of sin are not able to appreciate the value of the atonement and the necessity of being cleansed from all sin. The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died” (Romans 7:9)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 119, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 119, 1900, par. 16

Paul relates his experience when he was converted. He says, “When the commandment came, sin revived and I died.” [Romans 7:9.] He became just what you must become, a living epistle, known and read of all men.

Steps to Christ

Chapter 3—Repentance

SC 29.3

Paul says that as “touching the righteousness which is in the law”—as far as outward acts were concerned—he was “blameless” (Philippians 3:6); but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by the letter of the law as men apply it to the outward life, he had abstained from sin; but when he looked into the depths of its holy precepts, and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation and confessed his guilt. He says, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Romans 7:9. When he saw the spiritual nature of the law, sin appeared in its true hideousness, and his self-esteem was gone.

The Upward Look

The Need for a Reformation, January 2

UL 16.3

What is humility? That sense of sin and unworthiness which leads to repentance. But we must be assured of the malignity of a disease before we feel our need of a cure. Those who do not realize the sinfulness of sin are not able to appreciate the value of the atonement and the necessity of being cleansed from all sin. The sinner measures himself by himself and by those who like himself are sinners. He does not look at the purity and holiness of Christ. But when the law of God brings conviction to his heart, he says with Paul, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died” (Romans 7:9)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 55, 1876

3LtMs, Lt 55, 1876, par. 4

No one would be more rejoiced to see you a thoroughly converted man than myself. I have waited, hoping and praying to see you feeling under conviction of sin. If, like Paul, you could from the heart say, “sin revived and I died” [Romans 7:9], there would be some hope for you; but as the case now stands there is nothing to build hopes upon. “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Happy is the man that feareth alway; but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.” Proverbs 28:13, 14. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 21, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 21, 1882, par. 26

Will you at Battle Creek, by your flippant remarks, your superficial application of them, and by your explanations of them, seek to do away with the effect God designs the testimonies should have in thoroughly reforming the church? Will you show [that] you regard them by humbling your hearts before God? “Drop the matter,” some say. “Say no more about it. Why call for repentance when we have done the best we knew how?” So might the sinner reason in regard to his transgression of God’s law. But Paul says, “When the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Romans 7:9. Light has come, telling you your dangers, making clear your errors, and defining your wrongs.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 2, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 2, 1897, par. 32

Paul thought himself without fault until the commandment came home to his conscience. Then sin revived. It was seen in its true hideous character and Paul declares, “I died.” [Romans 7:9.] He says, “I did it ignorantly”—in the unbelief of what constitutes true godliness. [1 Timothy 1:13.] Those who are using their talents of speech to set forth things in Cooranbong in an objectionable light are none the less engaged in the same work of hurting Christ and persecuting Him by their wicked misrepresentations, because they themselves suppose that they have not been favored and advantaged. They were not given any just cause for their alienation; they were only revealing their own traits of character, [with] which, unless changed, transformed, subdued, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Age, experience, profession tells nothing with God if the heart’s principles are not heaven’s principles.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 23, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 23, 1899, par. 30

From a proud Pharisee who thought himself justified by the law, Paul was changed to a humble supplicant for mercy. He felt the far-reaching claims of the law of God take hold upon the most secret things and reach even to the thoughts and emotions of his sin-corrupted heart. He realized that he had been breaking the law, while he flattered himself that he was keeping it. Writing of this later he says, “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came (home to his conscience) sin revived, and I died.” [Romans 7:9.] His past life he saw with eyes anointed by the grace of Christ. Did Paul then pass right on, as though he had done no wrong? What was the result of the divine enlightenment? “I, Paul, died.” Was not the sword of the Spirit a discerner of the thoughts and intents and purposes of his heart?

14LtMs, Ms 23, 1899, par. 35

Paul declared, “When the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” [Romans 7:9.] The tongue of him who had blasphemed the name of Christ, the only name given under heaven whereby men may be saved, was converted, and became eloquent in sounding forth the praises of Him who had called him out of darkness into His marvelous light. O, that the same power might go forth to impress and soften and subdue hearts today by its transforming energy. Then there would be something done in sincerity and in truth. Wrongs would not be varnished over. Open-hearted confessions, just such as you have advised your brethren to make, just such repentance and confession of wrong as the Lord has directed those who have committed errors to make, will be heard.

Special Testimonies On Education

Chapter 12—Character Building

SpTEd 73.3

The foundation firmly laid, we need wisdom that we may know how to build. When Moses was about to erect the sanctuary in the wilderness, he was cautioned, “See that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.” In his law God has given us a pattern. Our character building is to be “after the pattern showed to thee in the mount.” The law is the great standard of righteousness. It represents the character of God, and is the test of our loyalty to his government. And it is revealed to us, in all its beauty and excellence, in the life of Christ. The law is the detector of sin. We have inspired testimony on this point: “For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came [home to the conscience], sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.” Romans 7:9-11. This is the work that it will do for every soul that is living in sin. The law points out sin, and condemns it, and sends the sinner to Christ for pardon and cleansing. “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 127, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 38

But among this apostate nation there were some genuine conversions. By a wonderful revelation of God’s power, Paul was brought to Christ, and his case is set forth as one of genuine conversion. The priests and rulers had not the deep conviction of sin that Paul had. They would not admit that they needed conversion. Speaking of his experience, Paul said, “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it, slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:9-12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 20, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 20, 1899, par. 11

“For I was alive without the law once,” Paul said, “But when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the [law] is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.” [Romans 7:9-13.] “Christ our passover is sacrificed for us.” [1 Corinthians 5:7.] He is a perfect and complete offering for all who believe. But we must have perfect faith in the complete sacrifice made, for without faith it is impossible to please God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 138, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 138, 1899, par. 11

The experience of the apostle Paul will be the experience of every repentant sinner. He says, “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, just and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.” [Romans 7:9-13.]

14LtMs, Ms 138, 1899, par. 12

“I delight in the law of God after the inward man; but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank my God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.” [Verses 22-25.] “If ye live after the flesh ye shall die; but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the flesh, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” [Romans 8:13, 14.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 833—Ellen White’s Theology of Redemption

10MR 329.4

Moses saw that only through Jesus Christ could man keep the law of God. Paul says, “The commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death” (Romans 7:10)—death to the sinner. The types and ceremonies, with the prophecies, gave ancient believers a veiled or indistinct discovery of the mercy and grace to be brought to light through the revelation of Jesus Christ to our world. The law itself would have no glory were it not that Christ is embodied in it. The revelation of Jesus Christ cast its glory back into the Jewish age. The law had no power to save. It was lusterless, except as Christ was represented in the law as the One full of righteousness and truth. And when Christ was revealed in His advent to our world, and died man’s sacrifice, type met antitype. Then the glory of that which is not typical, not to be done away, but which remaineth, God’s law of ten commandments, the standard of righteousness was plainly discerned as immutable by all who saw to the end of that which was abolished.

The Bible Echo

August 4, 1902

BEcho August 4, 1902, par. 5

Moses saw that only through Jesus Christ could man keep the law of God. Paul says, “The commandment which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death” (Romans 7:10), death to the sinner. The types and ceremonies, with the prophecies, gave ancient believers a veiled or indistinct discovery of the mercy and grace to be brought to light through the revelation of Jesus Christ to our world. The law itself would have no glory were it not that Christ is embodied in it. The revelation of Jesus Christ cast its glory back into the Jewish age. The law had no power to save. It was lustreless, only as Christ was represented in the law as the One full of righteousness and truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 58, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 58, 1900, par. 15

Moses saw that only through Jesus Christ could man keep the law of God. Paul says, “The commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death”—death to the sinner. [Romans 7:10.] The types and ceremonies, with the prophecies, gave ancient believers a veiled or indistinct discovery of the mercy and grace to be brought to light through the revelation of Jesus Christ to our world. The law itself would have no glory were it not that Christ is embodied in it. The revelation of Jesus Christ cast its glory back into the Jewish age. The law had no power to save. It was lusterless, only [i.e., except] as Christ was represented in the law as the One full of righteousness and truth.

15LtMs, Ms 58, 1900, par. 31

The law Paul declares to be holy, just, and good. [Romans 7:12.] The ceremonial law was to have no force after Christ died as a sin-offering. Yet it was connected with the ten moral precepts, and was glorious. The whole bears the stamp of divinity, and expressed the holiness, justice, and righteousness of God. The emblem of His divinity was reflected in the face of Moses when he came down from the mount, having in his hand the tables of stone with the law of God engraved upon the tables by the finger of God. The children of Israel could not look upon his countenance for the glory. If the ministry of that dispensation which was to be abolished at the death of Christ was glorious, how much more when the substance typified, the reality, was indeed reached—the life-giving, sanctifying spirit given through Christ to all who believe, how much more must that excel in glory!

God’s Amazing Grace

Its Principles of Government, January 12

AG 20.1

Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Romans 7:12.

Reflecting Christ

A Revelation of God’s Will and Character, February 1

RC 46.1

The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Romans 7:12.

RC 46.5

The law of God, from its very nature, is unchangeable. It is a revelation of the will and the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. Its two great principles are love to God and love to man. “Love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). The character of God is righteousness and truth; such is the nature of His law. Says the psalmist: “Thy law is the truth”; “all thy commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:142, 172). And the apostle Paul declares: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12). Such a law, being an expression of the mind and will of God, must be as enduring as its Author.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 27—The Character of the Law of God

1SM 216.1

David says: “The law of the Lord is perfect” (Psalm 19:7). “Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever” (Psalm 119:152). And Paul testifies: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12).

Sons and Daughters of God

The Law Is Holy, Just, and Good, February 3

SD 40.1

Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Romans 7:12.

That I May Know Him

God’s Law in the Heart, October 20

TMK 299.4

Under the new covenant the conditions by which eternal life may be gained are the same as under the old—perfect obedience. Under the old covenant there were many offences of a daring, presumptuous character for which there was no atonement specified by law. In the new and better covenant Christ has fulfilled the law for the transgressors of law if they receive Him by faith as a personal Saviour.... Mercy and forgiveness are the reward of all who come to Christ trusting in His merits to take away their sins. In the better covenant we are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ.... The sinner is helpless to atone for one sin. The power is in Christ’s free gift, a promise appreciated by those only who are sensible of their sins and who forsake their sins and cast their helpless souls upon Christ, the sin-pardoning Saviour. He will put into their hearts His perfect law, which is “holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12), the law of God’s own nature.24Letter 276, 1904.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 31—The Sermon on the Mount

DA 308.4

Since “the law of the Lord is perfect,” every variation from it must be evil. Those who disobey the commandments of God, and teach others to do so, are condemned by Christ. The Saviour’s life of obedience maintained the claims of the law; it proved that the law could be kept in humanity, and showed the excellence of character that obedience would develop. All who obey as He did are likewise declaring that the law is “holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. On the other hand, all who break God’s commandments are sustaining Satan’s claim that the law is unjust, and cannot be obeyed. Thus they second the deceptions of the great adversary, and cast dishonor upon God. They are the children of the wicked one, who was the first rebel against God’s law. To admit them into heaven would again bring in the elements of discord and rebellion, and imperil the well-being of the universe. No man who willfully disregards one principle of the law shall enter the kingdom of heaven.

The Faith I Live By

In Harmony With Heaven, March 18

FLB 83.3

Concerning the law proclaimed from Sinai, Nehemiah says, “Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments.”Nehemiah 9:13. And Paul ... declares, “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12.70Patriarchs and Prophets, 363-365.

The Faith I Live By

Jesus’ Example in Law Keeping, March 20

FLB 85.5

Since “the law of the Lord is perfect,” every variation from it must be evil. Those who disobey the commandments of God, and teach others to do so, are condemned by Christ. The Saviour’s life of obedience maintained the claims of the law, it proved that the law could be kept in humanity, and showed the excellence of character that obedience would develop. All who obey as He did are likewise declaring that the law is “holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12.81The Desire of Ages, 308, 309.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC 467.1

The law of God, from its very nature, is unchangeable. It is a revelation of the will and the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. Its two great principles are love to God and love to man. “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” Romans 13:10. The character of God is righteousness and truth; such is the nature of His law. Says the psalmist: “Thy law is the truth:” “all Thy commandments are righteousness.” Psalm 119:142, 172. And the apostle Paul declares: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. Such a law, being an expression of the mind and will of God, must be as enduring as its Author.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 592—The Open Door

8MR 240.2

I feel no spirit of hatred against the poor prejudiced souls who are deluded and blinded by error, and are in so great darkness they trample under foot the law of God. They are so filled with bitterness against this holy law, the foundation of God’s government in heaven and in earth, they cannot find words sufficiently strong to express their contempt of God’s law, which the inspired Apostle calls “holy, and just, and good.” (Romans 7:12.) I have left my case in the hands of God. He knows all. He can hold in check the prejudices and opposition of our enemies. He can turn their devices against themselves. He can make their bitter speeches and their enmity rebound upon their own heads.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC88 466.4

The law of God, from its very nature, is unchangeable. It is a revelation of the will and the character of its Author. God is love, and his law is love. Its two great principles are love to God and man. “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” [Romans 13:10.] The character of God is righteousness and truth; such is the nature of his law. Says the psalmist, “Thy law is the truth;” “all thy commandments are righteousness.” [Psalm 119:142, 172.] And the apostle Paul declares, “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.] Such a law, being an expression of the mind and will of God, must be as enduring as its Author.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials

Experience Following the 1888 Minneapolis Conference; The Danger of Legalism; Emphasizing Religious Liberty

1888 375.2

The Lord is not pleased to have man trusting in his own ability or good deeds or in a legal religion, but in God, the living God. The present message that God has made it the duty of His servants to give to the people is no new or novel thing. It is an old truth that has been lost sight of, just as Satan made his masterly efforts that it should be. The Lord has a work for every one of His loyal people to do to bring the faith of Jesus into the right place where it belongs—in the third angel’s message. The law has its important position but is powerless unless the righteousness of Christ is placed beside the law to give its glory to the whole royal standard of righteousness. “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12).

From Eternity Past

Two Laws: Moral and Ceremonial

EP 255.5

Concerning the law proclaimed from Sinai, Nehemiah says, “Thou camest down also upon Mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments.” Nehemiah 9:13. And Paul, “the apostle to the Gentiles,” declares, “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12.

From Here to Forever

The Law of Liberty

HF 288.1

The law of God is unchangeable, a revelation of the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” Says the psalmist: “Thy law is the truth”; “all thy commandments are righteousness.” Paul declares: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 13:10; Psalm 119:142, 172; Romans 7:12. Such a law must be as enduring as its Author.

From the Heart

Christ in Light of the Law, October 11

FH 296.1

Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good. Romans 7:12.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

The Law of Liberty

GrH_c 25.6

The law of God is unchangeable, a revelation of the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” Says the psalmist: “Thy law is the truth”; “all thy commandments are righteousness.” Paul declares: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 13:10; Psalm 119:142, 172; Romans 7:12. Such a law must be as enduring as its Author.

Homeward Bound

The New Birth, March 26

HB 103.3

The law of God, from its very nature, is unchangeable. It is a revelation of the will and the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. Its two great principles are love to God and love to man. “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” (Romans 13:10.) The character of God is righteousness and truth; such is the nature of His law. Says the psalmist: “Thy law is the truth:” “all Thy commandments are righteousness.” (Psalm 119:142, 172.) And the apostle Paul declares: “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” (Romans 7:12.) Such a law, being an expression of the mind and will of God, must be as enduring as its Author.

Homeward Bound

The Law Is Holy, June 6

HB 179.1

The law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.—Romans 7:12.

HB 179.2

Since “the law of the Lord is perfect,” every variation from it must be evil. Those who disobey the commandments of God, and teach others to do so, are condemned by Christ. The Saviour’s life of obedience maintained the claims of the law; it proved that the law could be kept in humanity, and showed the excellence of character that obedience would develop. All who obey as He did are likewise declaring that the law is “holy, and just, and good.” (Romans 7:12.) On the other hand, all who break God’s commandments are sustaining Satan’s claim that the law is unjust, and cannot be obeyed. Thus they second the deceptions of the great adversary, and cast dishonor upon God. They are the children of the wicked one, who was the first rebel against God’s law. To admit them into heaven would again bring in the elements of discord and rebellion, and imperil the well-being of the universe. No one who willfully disregards one principle of the law shall enter the kingdom of heaven.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 2, 1874

2LtMs, Lt 2, 1874, par. 36

I feel no spirit of hatred against these poor prejudiced souls who are deluded and blinded by error, and are in so great darkness they trample under foot the law of God. They are so filled with bitterness against this holy law, the foundation of God’s government in heaven and in earth, they cannot find words sufficiently strong to express their contempt of God’s law, which the inspired Apostle calls “holy, just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.] I have left my case in the hands of God. He knows all. He can hold in check the prejudices and opposition of our enemies. He can turn their devices against themselves. He can make their bitter speeches and their enmity rebound upon their own heads.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 30, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 30, 1889, par. 69

The Lord has a work for every one of His loyal people to do to bring the faith of Jesus into the right place where it belongs—in the third angel’s message. The law has its important position but is powerless unless the righteousness of Christ is placed beside the law to give its glory to the whole royal standard of righteousness. “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. A thorough and complete trust in Jesus will give the right quality to religious experience. Aside from this the experience is nothing. The service is like the offering of Cain—Christless. God is glorified by living faith in a personal, all-sufficient Saviour. Faith views Christ as He is—the sinner’s only hope. Faith takes hold of Christ, trusts Him. It says, “He loves me; He died for me. I accept the sacrifice and Christ shall not have died for me in vain.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 50, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 50, 1893, par. 37

This is the sanctification to which those attain whose love of God’s law increases as the contempt of transgressors increases. There is need for this increased confidence in the law; for fraud, violence and crime are rapidly increasing. Men show their hatred of God by fighting against His law which He has pronounced “holy and just and good.” [Romans 7:12.] Liquor saloons are established in every city. These are death traps and those who establish them, seeking to accumulate gain at the cost of poverty, misery and woe, provoke the Lord of hosts to their destruction.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 63, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 63, 1897, par. 32

Every false religion is of Satan’s originating, and the warning must be given to the world. The truth of God’s Word alone is permanent and eternal. The loyal subjects of God’s kingdom will not be found trampling upon His law, pronounced by Inspiration to be “holy, just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 137, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 137, 1897, par. 2

This whole chapter contains an important lesson, by which is decided our eternal destiny. The Lord Jesus would have all understand the publicity of His second appearing. The judgment scene will be held in the presence of all the worlds, for in this judgment the government of God will be vindicated, and His honor, His law, stand forth as “holy, just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.] Then every case will be decided, and the judgment sentence passed upon the whole world. Sin will not then appear attractive, but will be seen in all it hideous magnitude. Then will be seen the relation in which we stand to God and to each other.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 11, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 16

The law of God is the great moral standard of righteousness. This the apostle declares is holy, just, and good. [Romans 7:12.] David says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] Christ says, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [John 15:7.] “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 to him.” [John 14:21.] This is most assuredly the witness of the Spirit. “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit, so shall ye be by disciples.” “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments (from the heart), ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:8-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 34, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 34, 1897, par. 22

When men’s authority and human enactments become mixed up with God’s holy requirements, and the dignity and holiness of God is not recognized, men need to be alarmed; for God is jealous of his honor. These men are standing directly in the way of God’s commandments, that they shall not be implicitly obeyed according to God’s directions. God has set the lines of His Sabbath, and he has made explicit and definite His requirements concerning that day. Then let men beware how they remove the least jot and tittle of that law that God has pronounced “holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 25

God has a controversy with the world and with the professed Christians who accept the fallacies of the great Apostate, which are prepared to suit every class in the Christian world, and who discard the law of God pronounced by the inspiration of God’s Spirit to be “holy and just and good.” [Romans 7:12.]

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

MR No. 1216—Experience Following the 1888 Minneapolis Conference; The Danger of Legalism; Emphasizing Religious Liberty

16MR 235.2

The Lord is not pleased to have man trusting in his own ability or good deeds or in a legal religion, but in God, the living God. The present message that God has made it the duty of His servants to give to the people is no new or novel thing. It is an old truth that has been lost sight of, just as Satan made his masterly efforts that it should be. The Lord has a work for every one of His loyal people to do to bring the faith of Jesus into the right place where it belongs—in the third angel’s message. The law has its important position but is powerless unless the righteousness of Christ is placed beside the law to give its glory to the whole royal standard of righteousness. “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 73, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 73, 1901, par. 23

“The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:12.] This law is to be obeyed. In him who loves God supremely and his neighbor as himself, holiness will be perfected. When man submits to the control of the Holy Spirit, he works out his own salvation with fear and trembling, in humiliation and self-distrust. He depends upon God’s power, allowing Him to will and to do of His good pleasure. So God, the divine agent, and man, the human agent, work in co-operation. As man receives the Holy Spirit, he loves God with all the heart and soul and strength and mind. Putting on Christ, he sits in heavenly places with Christ and his brethren.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 276, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, par. 11

These precious assurances are thoroughly appreciated by the sinner who repents and comes to Christ, receiving from Him the power to become a son of God. The sinner is helpless to atone for one sin. The power is in Christ’s free gift, a promise appreciated by those only who are sensible of their sins, and who forsake their sins and cast their helpless souls upon Christ, the sin-pardoning Saviour. He will put into their hearts His perfect law, which is “Holy, and just, and good,” the law of God’s own nature. [Romans 7:12.] By partaking of the divine nature, they escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 216, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 216, 1906, par. 9

These precious assurances are thoroughly appreciated by the sinner who repents and comes to Christ, receiving from Him the power to become a son of God. The sinner is helpless to atone for one sin. The power is in Christ’s free gift, a promise appreciated by those only who are sensible of their sins, and who forsake their sins, and cast their helpless souls upon Christ, the sin-pardoning Saviour. He will put into their hearts His perfect law, which is “holy, and just, and good”—the law of God’s own nature. [Romans 7:12.] By partaking of the divine nature, they escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.

The Three Angels’ Messages

“Those who keep ... the faith of Jesus”

3AM 115.2

Christ’s righteousness gives glory to the law—The Lord has a work for every one of His loyal people to do to bring the faith of Jesus into the right place where it belongs—in the third angel’s message. The law has its important position but is powerless unless the righteousness of Christ is placed beside the law to give its glory to the whole royal standard of righteousness. “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. A thorough and complete trust in Jesus will give the right quality to religious experience. Aside from this the experience is nothing. The service is like the offering of Cain—Christless. God is glorified by living faith in a personal, all-sufficient Saviour. Faith views Christ as He is—the sinner’s only hope. Faith takes hold of Christ, trusts Him. It says, “He loves me; He died for me. I accept the sacrifice and Christ shall not have died for me in vain.”—Manuscript 30, 1889 (June)

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

MR No. 1030—A Challenge to Consecrate, Decentralize, and Evangelize

13MR 221.2

“The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:12]. This law is to be obeyed. In him who loves God supremely and his neighbor as himself, holiness will be perfected. When man submits to the control of the Holy Spirit, he works out his own salvation with fear and trembling, in humiliation and self-distrust. He depends upon God’s power, allowing Him to will and to do of His good pleasure. So God, the divine agent, and man, the human agent, work in cooperation. As man receives the Holy Spirit, he loves God with all the heart and soul and strength and mind. Putting on Christ, he sits in heavenly places with Christ and his brethren.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2

(A) The Decalogue

2MCP 563.3

Says the great apostle, “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law” (Romans 3:31). And again he declares that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12). Enjoining supreme love to God, and equal love to our fellowmen, it is indispensable alike to the glory of God and to human happiness.—The Review and Herald, September 27, 1881.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 10—The Tower of Babel

PP 123.1

The men of Babel had determined to establish a government that should be independent of God. There were some among them, however, who feared the Lord, but who had been deceived by the pretensions of the ungodly and drawn into their schemes. For the sake of these faithful ones the Lord delayed His judgments and gave the people time to reveal their true character. As this was developed, the sons of God labored to turn them from their purpose; but the people were fully united in their Heaven-daring undertaking. Had they gone on unchecked, they would have demoralized the world in its infancy. Their confederacy was founded in rebellion; a kingdom established for self-exaltation, but in which God was to have no rule or honor. Had this confederacy been permitted, a mighty power would have borne sway to banish righteousness—and with it peace, happiness, and security—from the earth. For the divine statutes, which are “holy and just and good” (Romans 7:12), men were endeavoring to substitute laws to suit the purpose of their own selfish and cruel hearts.

Prophets and Kings

Introduction—The Vineyard of the Lord

PK 15.2

Men had well-nigh lost the knowledge of the true God. Their minds were darkened by idolatry. For the divine statutes, which are “holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12), men were endeavoring to substitute laws in harmony with the purposes of their own cruel, selfish hearts. Yet God in His mercy did not blot them out of existence. He purposed to give them opportunity for becoming acquainted with Him through His church. He designed that the principles revealed through His people should be the means of restoring the moral image of God in man.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 122, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, par. 3

Through faith in Christ, obedience to every principle of the law is made possible. Thus Paul learned that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” For our benefit he questions, “Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” [Romans 7:12-14.]

Steps to Christ

Chapter 2—The Sinner’s Need of Christ

SC 19.1

It is not enough to perceive the loving-kindness of God, to see the benevolence, the fatherly tenderness, of His character. It is not enough to discern the wisdom and justice of His law, to see that it is founded upon the eternal principle of love. Paul the apostle saw all this when he exclaimed, “I consent unto the law that it is good.” “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” But he added, in the bitterness of his soul-anguish and despair, “I am carnal, sold under sin.” Romans 7:16, 12, 14. He longed for the purity, the righteousness, to which in himself he was powerless to attain, and cried out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Such is the cry that has gone up from burdened hearts in all lands and in all ages. To all, there is but one answer, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.

Homeward Bound

By Grace Alone, March 3

HB 80.4

It is not enough to perceive the loving-kindness of God, to see the benevolence, the fatherly tenderness, of His character. It is not enough to discern the wisdom and justice of His law, to see that it is founded upon the eternal principle of love. Paul the apostle saw all this when he exclaimed, “I consent unto the law that it is good.” “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” But he added, in the bitterness of his soul-anguish and despair, “I am carnal, sold under sin.” (Romans 7:16, 12, 14.) He longed for the purity, the righteousness, to which in himself he was powerless to attain, and cried out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24, margin.) Such is the cry that has gone up from burdened hearts in all lands and in all ages. To all, there is but one answer, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29.)—Steps to Christ, 18, 19.

The Faith I Live By

Sin—Exceedingly Sinful, March 5

FLB 70.1

That sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. Romans 7:13.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 558—The Law

8MR 98.3

Through faith in Christ obedience to every principle of the law is made possible. Thus Paul learned that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” For our benefit, he questions, “Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” (Romans 7:13, 14.)

The General Conference Bulletin

April 23, 1901

GCB April 23, 1901, Art. A, par. 2

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh, The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me [that is, in my flesh] dwelleth no good thing.” Romans 7:17. To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You can not obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 13—Two Worshipers

COL 160.3

At every advance step in Christian experience our repentance will deepen. It is to those whom the Lord has forgiven, to those whom He acknowledges as His people, that He says, “Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight.” Ezekiel 36:31. Again He says, “I will establish My covenant with thee, and thou shalt know that I am the Lord; that thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God.” Ezekiel 16:62, 63. Then our lips will not be opened in self-glorification. We shall know that our sufficiency is in Christ alone. We shall make the apostle’s confession our own. “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing.” Romans 7:18. “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Master Worker, February 10

JNN 49.1

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells.—Romans 7:18

JNN 49.3

At every advance step in Christian experience our repentance will deepen. It is to those whom the Lord has forgiven, to those whom He acknowledges as His people, that He says, “Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight” (Ezekiel 36:31). Again He says, “I will establish My covenant with thee, and thou shalt know that I am the Lord; that thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God” (Ezekiel 16:62, 63). Then our lips will not be opened in self-glorification. We shall know that our sufficiency is in Christ alone. We shall make the apostle’s confession our own. “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing” (Romans 7:18)....

Selected Messages Book 2

A Repetition of Early Fanaticism

2SM 32.1

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing” (Romans 7:18). To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 55—Transformed by Grace

AA 561.2

So will it be with all who behold Christ. The nearer we come to Jesus, and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly shall we see the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and the less shall we feel like exalting ourselves. There will be a continual reaching out of the soul after God, a continual, earnest, heartbreaking confession of sin and humbling of the heart before Him. At every advance step in our Christian experience our repentance will deepen. We shall know that our sufficiency is in Christ alone and shall make the apostle’s confession our own: “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Romans 7:18; Galatians 6:14.

Ellen White: Woman of Vision

Meeting The Holy Flesh Fanaticism

WV 394.8

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing” (Romans 7:18). To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. No human being on earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility. If those who speak so freely of perfection in the flesh could see things in the true light, they would recoil with horror from their presumptuous ideas....

Ellen G. White: The Early Elmshaven Years: 1900-1905 (vol. 5)

The Message Read to the Ministers

5BIO 104.6

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing” (Romans 7:18). To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility. If those who speak so freely of perfection in the flesh could see things in the true light, they would recoil with horror from their presumptuous ideas....

From Trials to Triumph

True Sanctification Is a Lifework

TT 295.2

The more clearly we discern the purity of Christ’s character, the more clearly shall we see the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There will be a continual confession of sin and humbling of the heart before Him. At every advance step our repentance will deepen. We shall confess: “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 7:18; Galatians 6:14. Let not God be dishonored by the declaration from human lips, “I am sinless; I am holy.” Sanctified lips will never give utterance to such presumptuous words.

Homeward Bound

Reaching Out After God, March 20

HB 97.3

So will it be with all who behold Christ. The nearer we come to Jesus, and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly shall we see the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and the less shall we feel like exalting ourselves. There will be a continual reaching out of the soul after God, a continual, earnest, heartbreaking confession of sin and humbling of the heart before Him. At every advance step in our Christian experience our repentance will deepen. We shall know that our sufficiency is in Christ alone and shall make the apostle’s confession our own: “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” (Romans 7:18; Galatians 6:14.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 76a, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, par. 3

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” [Romans 7:18.] To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. (No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 39, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 39, 1907, par. 2

The teaching given in regard to what is called “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing.” Romans 7:18. To those who have tried by faith to obtain so called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility.

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

MR No. 907—Ellen G. White Letters To J. H. Kellogg

11MR 312.3

I beseech you to make an unreserved surrender to God, and to make it now, just now. When you make this surrender you will have an experience entirely different from the experience that you have had for many years. Then you will be able to say with the apostle Paul, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8). “I delight in the law of God after the inward man” (Romans 7:22).

Radiant Religion

The Law of God, January 14

RRe 16.1

I delight in the law of God after the inward man. Romans 7:22.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 65, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 65, 1903, par. 12

This may be your experience if you will separate from you all that is marring your character. I beseech you to make an unreserved surrender to God, and to make it now, just now. When you make this surrender, you will have an experience entirely different from the experience that you have had for many years. Then you will be able to say with the apostle Paul, “I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.” [Philippians 3:8.] “I delight in the law of God, after the inward man.” [Romans 7:22.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”

COL 201.1

If you have chosen such a life, you know that you are spending money for that which is not bread, and labor for that which satisfieth not. There come to you hours when you realize your degradation. Alone in the far country you feel your misery, and in despair you cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. It is the statement of a universal truth which is contained in the prophet’s words, “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” Jeremiah 17:5, 6. God “maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45); but men have the power to shut themselves away from sunshine and shower. So while the Sun of Righteousness shines, and the showers of grace fall freely for all, we may by separating ourselves from God still “inhabit the parched places in the wilderness.”

From Here to Forever

Chapter 27—How Successful Are Modern Revivals?

HF 285.1

Wherever the Word of God has been faithfully preached, results have followed that attested its divine origin. Sinners felt their consciences quickened. Deep conviction took hold upon their minds and hearts. They had a sense of the righteousness of God, and cried out: “Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. As the cross was revealed, they saw that nothing but the merits of Christ could atone for their transgressions. Through the blood of Jesus they had “remission of sins that are past.” Romans 3:25.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Chapter 6—True Peace

GrH_c 24.1

Wherever the Word of God has been faithfully preached, results have followed that attested its divine origin. Sinners felt their consciences quickened. Deep conviction took hold upon their minds and hearts. They had a sense of the righteousness of God, and cried out: “Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. As the cross was revealed, they saw that nothing but the merits of Christ could atone for their transgressions. Through the blood of Jesus they had “remission of sins that are past.” Romans 3:25.

Homeward Bound

Spiritual Healing, March 13

HB 90.5

Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. There are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24, margin.) Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” (John 5:6.) He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” (Ephesians 2:1.) He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.—The Desire of Ages, 202, 203.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 104, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, par. 5

Those in positions of responsibility in God’s work, who have been wrought upon by the Holy Spirit, have seen their nothingness, as from the depths of penitence they have cried for mercy and the love of Christ. As the great apostle to the Gentiles looked at his sinful condition, he exclaimed, “O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” [Romans 7:24.] Did Paul love Jesus? Read his letters—full of intense ardor and deep yearning for the churches. His words are weighted with a burning desire to love his Redeemer with greater love.

Lift Him Up

He Is Always Near, March 14

LHU 87.4

By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. Many realize their helplessness; they are longing for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God, and are striving to obtain it. But in vain. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24, margin). Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe the Saviour’s word. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses” (Ephesians 2:1)....

Our Father Cares

The Saving Power of Jesus, March 8

OFC 79.6

Paul the apostle ... longed for the purity, the righteousness, to which in himself he was powerless to attain, and he cried out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Such is the cry that has gone up from burdened hearts in all lands and in all ages. To all, there is but one answer, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.8The Faith I Live By, 96.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Needs of the Church

6T 52.3

When man is a partaker of the divine nature, the love of Christ will be an abiding principle in the soul, and self and its peculiarities will not be exhibited. But it is sad to see those who should be vessels unto honor indulging in the gratification of the lower nature and walking in paths that conscience condemns. Men professing to be followers of Christ fall to a low level, always mourning over their shortcomings, but never overcoming and bruising Satan under their feet. Guilt and condemnation constantly burden the soul, and the cry of such might well be: “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. Through indulgence in sin, self-respect is destroyed; and when that is gone, respect for others is lessened; we think that others are as unrighteous as we are ourselves.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 21—Bethesda and the Sanhedrin

DA 203.2

Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. There are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” Ephesians 2:1. He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.

The Faith I Live By

The Saving Power of Jesus, March 31

FLB 96.6

Paul the apostle ... longed for the purity, the righteousness, to which in himself he was powerless to attain, and he cried out, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Such is the cry that has gone up from burdened hearts in all lands and in all ages. To all, there is but one answer, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.138Steps to Christ, 18, 19.

The Faith I Live By

Purging From Sin, July 3

FLB 190.3

Isaiah had denounced the sin of others; but now he sees himself exposed to the same condemnation he had pronounced upon them. He had been satisfied with a cold, lifeless ceremony in his worship of God. He had not known this until the vision was given him of the Lord. How little now appeared his wisdom and talents as he looked upon the sacredness and majesty of the sanctuary.... His view of himself might be expressed in the language of the apostle Paul, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24....

The Ministry of Healing

“Wilt Thou Be Made Whole?”

MH 84.4

By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. Many realize their helplessness; they are longing for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God, and are striving to obtain it. But in vain. In despair they cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?” Romans 7:24, margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe the Saviour’s word. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespasses.” Ephesians 2:1. He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 2, 1873

2LtMs, Lt 2, 1873, par. 7

Said Paul, “With my mind serve I the Law of God.” [Romans 7:25.] Becloud this mind through indulgence of animal appetite and passions, and the moral powers are weakened, so that the sacred and common are placed upon a level. You are a backslidden church. Impatience, faultfinding, envy, and jealousy exist. Search and learn how these evils have found so large a place in the mind and heart, and separated brother from brother. Hatred and malice have existed in the place of peace and love. God’s cause has been reproached and put to open shame, because you have not had the grace of God and self-control.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 55, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 55, 1886, par. 31

The Lord said concerning Satan, that old serpent, that he should bruise the heel of Christ, but Christ would bruise his head. Thank God, he cannot touch the head. “With the mind I myself serve the law of God” (Romans 7:25), said the prophet. The mind and heart are enlisted in the service of Christ, while Satan has enlisted men and fallen angels to join in his company to league against good. They can only bruise the heel, while in the very act, when Satan seems to have triumphed in putting them to torture and to death, the faithful who stand in defense of the law of Jehovah are wounding the head of the great rebel.