Loading…

The Ellen G. White Writings

27/93

Ellen G. White Statements Bearing on Authority

At this juncture it is proper to examine several statements made by Mrs. White herself that bear on the question of authority. We present first one that appeared on a broadside dated January 31, 1849: EGWW 51.1

I saw the state of some who stood on present truth, but disregarded the visions—the way God had chosen to teach in some cases, those who erred from Bible truth. I saw that in striking against the visions they did not strike against the worm—the feeble instrument that God spake through—but against the Holy Ghost. I saw it was a small thing to speak against the instrument, but it was dangerous to slight the words of God. I saw if they were in error and God chose to show them their errors through visions, and they disregarded the teachings of God through visions, they would be left to take their own way, and run in the way of error, and think they were right, until they would find it out too late.—Selected Messages 1:40. EGWW 51.2

In 1875 she published a challenging statement bearing on this point: EGWW 51.3

God is either teaching His church, reproving their wrongs and strengthening their faith, or He is not. This work is of God, or it is not. God does nothing in partnership with Satan. My work ... bears the stamp of God or the stamp of the enemy. There is no halfway work in the matter. The Testimonies are of the Spirit of God, or of the devil.—Testimonies for the Church 4:230. EGWW 51.4

Here is still another statement bearing the date of 1903: EGWW 51.5

Sister White is not the originator of these books. They contain the instruction that during her lifework God has been giving her. They contain the precious, comforting light that God has graciously given His servant to be given to the world.—The Review and Herald, January 20, 1903 (quoted in Colporteur Ministry, 125). EGWW 51.6

Illuminating remarks may be added to these, such as: EGWW 51.7

Make known to others what I have revealed to you.—Early Writings, 20. EGWW 51.8

I speak that which I have seen, and which I know to be true.—Letter 4, 1896 (quoted in Notes and Papers Concerning Ellen G. White and the Spirit of Prophecy, 5 p. 89). EGWW 52.1

Permit me to express my mind, and yet not my mind, but the word of the Lord.—Counsels to Writers and Editors, 112. EGWW 52.2

Ellen White informs us that she was instructed by God: EGWW 52.3

In all your communications, speak as one to whom the Lord has spoken. He is your authority.—Letter 186, 1902 (quoted in Notes and Papers, p. 89). EGWW 52.4