Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #3 — We Are The Audience

Picture: Counsel #3 — We Are The Audience CCW 174.1

Non-canonical prophets mentioned in the Bible had local messages for particular groups of people. For example, Acts 11 records how the prophet Agabus foretold a famine that impacted church members during the first century. Obviously, the prophecy about this famine is no longer relevant to Christians. However, as Adventists, Ellen White’s ministry is relevant to us. Her prophetic gift was given specifically to believers waiting for Jesus’ return. Many of her messages involved specific counsel to people who lived over a hundred years ago. But she grounded her messages on timeless principles that speak to us today.^[255] CCW 174.2

“Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” Revelation 14:12 NKJV CCW 174.3

“God gave me the light contained in Great Controversy and Patriarchs and Prophets, and this light was needed to arouse the people to prepare for the great day of God, which is just before us. These books contain God’s direct appeal to the people. Thus He is speaking to the people in stirring words, urging them to make ready for His coming.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 6, Manuscript 23, 1890, par. 8 CCW 174.4

Reflect: Why are the messages of non-canonical prophets, like Agabus, not relevant for all people in all times and places? CCW 174.5