Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years: 1905-1915 (vol. 6)

Questions Calling for Careful Answers

The questions about Ellen White's work that came in from Battle Creek called for earnest attention, not only by Ellen White but by her staff. Some of the questions were serious; others were of a quibbling nature dealing with “supposed inconsistencies in the testimonies” (Letter 142, 1906). 6BIO 91.3

Many of the questions had their foundation in faulty concepts of inspiration. The prophet was thought of as a mechanical agent, speaking or writing each word dictated by the Holy Spirit. This “verbal inspiration” concept at times led to the expectation of more from Ellen White than was justified—more than was demanded of the prophets and apostles of old. 6BIO 91.4

Her defense of the testimonies and of herself actually dated back to January. “I have been very busy of late,” she wrote on January 19. “The Lord has sustained me in preparing matter to meet the unbelief and infidelity expressed regarding the testimonies He has given me to bear to His people. He has given me words to write.”—Letter 34, 1906. 6BIO 91.5