Ellen G. White — Messenger to the Remnant

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New Rays of Light

Although the pioneers of the message were assured that they had discovered fundamental truths—truths attested to by the Spirit of prophecy—yet this did not excuse them or us from continued diligent study of the word of God. Each must have an individual experience as a basis of knowledge and confidence. Such study rightly carried forward promises rich reward in the discovery of new rays of light. Our duty of personal Bible study and its resulting blessings we find set forth in these words: EGWMR 40.12

“Precious light has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth, showing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scriptures, and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have all the bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God. EGWMR 40.13

“Whatever may be man’s intellectual advancement, let him not for a moment think that there is no need of thorough and continuous searching of the Scriptures for greater light. As a people we are called individually to be students of prophecy. We must watch with earnestness that we may discern any ray of light which God shall present to us. We are to catch the first gleamings of truth; and through prayerful study, clearer light may be obtained, which can be brought before others. EGWMR 40.14

“When God’s people are at ease, and satisfied with their present enlightenment, we may be sure that He will not favor them. It is His will that they should be ever moving forward, to receive the increased and ever-increasing light which is shining for them.”—Testimonies for the Church 5:707-709. EGWMR 40.15