Doctrinal Development, Authority, and Ellen White

by Paul A. Gordon

This document considers the authority of Ellen White, with special emphasis on her role in the development of
doctrine among Seventh-day Adventists.

Introduction	1
1. The Matter of Authority	1
a. Definitions of Authority	1
b. Types of Authority	1
c. Authority Under Attack	2
d. The Prophet’s Attitude on Authority	2
e. Ellen White on Authority (The Great Controversy Introduction)	3
2. Ellen White’s Role in the Church	3
a. Church Development and Organization	3
b. Last Day Reforms	4
c. Personal Counsel, Correction, and Encouragement	4
d. Doctrinal Development	4
i. The Sanctuary	5
ii. The Sabbath	5
e. The Bible and the Bible Only	6
3. A Final Thought on Authority	7
Bibliography	8