Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

The Broad Field Reached By Personal Testimonies

In this statement of the large field of usefulness of testimonies addressed to individuals presenting the light God had given for them, she sets forth a certain principle: 2BIO 238.2

He makes plain the wrongs of some that others may thus be warned, and fear, and shun those errors.—Ibid., 2:113. 2BIO 238.3

She pointed out that an examination of self may reveal to the readers that they are doing the same things that led God to reprove someone else. She concluded: 2BIO 238.4

If they really desire to serve God, and fear to offend Him, they will not wait for their sins to be specified before they make confession and with humble repentance return unto the Lord. They will forsake the things which have displeased God, according to the light given to others. 2BIO 238.5

If, on the contrary, those who are not right see that they are guilty of the very sins that have been reproved in others, yet continue in the same unconsecrated course because they have not been specially named, they endanger their own souls, and will be led captive by Satan at his will.—Ibid. 2BIO 238.6

With the church rapidly growing, she could not address all personally. Therefore, the published testimonies issued in Numbers 16 to 32, 1868 to 1885—current volumes 2, 3, 4, and 5—contain a great deal of important counsel in the setting of messages addressed first to individuals. These counsels will guard and guide the believer against the wiles of Satan, whoever or wherever the believer may be, and encourage him on his way to the kingdom. 2BIO 238.7