The Testimony of Jesus

Present Time Application

Referring once more to the principle governing the application of the instruction to present-day conditions, we will say, where the same or similar evils exist in the church today and the same or similar conditions prevail, the instruction that was given years ago applies with the same force with which it applied when originally given. This principle is clearly enunciated with reference to the publication of personal testimonies: TOJ 134.4

“Since the warning and instruction given in testimony for individual cases applied with equal force to many others who had not been especially pointed out in this manner, it seemed to be my duty to publish the personal testimonies for the benefit of the church.... TOJ 134.5

“In a view given me about twenty years ago, I was directed to bring out general principles, in speaking and in writing, and at the same time to specify the dangers, errors, and sins of some individuals, that all might be warned, reproved, and counseled. I saw that all should search their own hearts and lives closely, to see if they had not made the same mistakes for which others were corrected, and if the warnings given for others did not apply to their own cases. If so, they should feel that the counsel and reproofs were given especially for them, and should make as practical an application of them as though they were especially addressed to themselves.... God designs to test the faith of all who claim to be followers of Christ. He will test the sincerity of the prayers of all those who claim to earnestly desire to know their duty. He will make duty plain. He will give all an ample opportunity to develop what is in their hearts. TOJ 135.1

“In ancient times God spoke to men by the mouth of prophets and apostles. In these days He speaks to them by the Testimonies of His Spirit. There was never a time when God instructed His people more earnestly than He instructs them now concerning His will, and the course that He would have them pursue.”—Testimonies for the Church 5:658-661. TOJ 135.2

The sincere believer in the Testimonies will not be seeking continually to evade their just claims. His attitude will be that of Samuel of old, “Speak, Lord; for Thy servant heareth.” And learning the way of the Lord, he will be prompt to yield his own way and subordinate his own desires to the leadings of the Spirit of God. May God give to each of us this attitude of heart and mind. TOJ 135.3