Some Hermeneutical Principles Bearing On the Ellen G. White Writings

3. Testimonies for the Church, Volume 5—1889

One other explanation of her work can be found in Testimonies for the Church 5:692-698. Here Ellen White deals with certain rumors about what she had said about the judgment, a minister being saved, and that she had confessed to error and a wrong spirit at a certain meeting. She denied all of these rumors and then commented: HPEGWW 12.3

During my labors in connection with the work of the Lord I have not made it a practice to vindicate my own cause or to contradict reports that have been put in circulation in regard to myself. To do this would occupy my time to the neglect of the work which God has appointed me.—Testimonies for the Church 5:691.

She then talks about the problems that Christ had with rumors: HPEGWW 12.4

Those who listened to the words of Christ heard and reported His teaching just according to the spirit that was in them. It is ever thus with those who hear God’s word. The manner in which they understand and receive it depends upon the spirit which dwells in their hearts….If persons listen to God’s message of reproof, warning, or encouragement while their hearts are filled with prejudice, they will not understand the true import of that which was sent them to be a savor of life unto life.—Testimonies for the Church 5:694-695. (Emphasis supplied.)

In connection with a correct reading of her counsels, she makes still another important observation: HPEGWW 12.5

To all who have a desire for truth I would say: Do not give credence to unauthenticated reports as to what Sister White has done or said or written. If you desire to know what the Lord has revealed through her, read her published works.—Testimonies for the Church 5:696.