Minneapolis - 1888: The “Forgotten” Issue

Conclusion

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter.” 1888FI 31.3

If Paul had been at Minneapolis in 1888, and had read the correspondence that ensued, and the subsequent “Monday-morning-quarterbacking” of the denominational historians in succeeding eras, he might have included Minneapolis/1888 among the incidents concerning which, he said, “happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Corinthians 10:11). “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4). 1888FI 31.4

While the Minneapolis/1888 meetings are often rightly thought of in terms of the issue of righteousness by faith, and the principal actors are seen to be A. T. Jones and E. J. Waggoner, it is also true that there were other issues—with other principal actors—playing out their roles on the stage of this significant meeting. 1888FI 32.1

One such ultimate (and often “forgotten”) issue was the existence and the integrity of the prophetic gift given Ellen G. White. And it was challenged by many, including Franklin E. Belden and Rufus A. Underwood. And to be completely understood, the 1888 experience must be viewed in this additional setting. 1888FI 32.2