Manuscript Releases, vol. 7 [Nos. 419-525]

MR No. 504—Divorce and Remarriage

I am fully convinced that Brother Wales should be given encouragement to stand forth in the strength of the Lord as an overcomer. I see no reason why he should be hounded to death by his fellow-men, when the Lord Jesus says, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.... And I will turn My hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away thy sin.” 7MR 341.1

I see no reason why we should not encourage Brother Wales to be a worker in the Lord's vineyard. [By context and related statements it is clear that Ellen White suggests that Will Wales could assist in the work of the Lord as a layman, not as an ordained minister. See W. C. White statement of September 15, 1911: “Mother does not wish to take large responsibility in this matter; but she says regarding Elder Wales as she has said regarding other men in a somewhat similar position, if they have thoroughly repented, if they are living such lives as convince their brethren that they are thoroughly in earnest, do not cut them off from fellowship, do not forbid their working for Christ in a humble capacity, but do not elevate them to positions of responsibility.”.—Ms Release No. 448, The Spirit of Prophecy and Adultery, Divorce, Remarriage and Church Membership.” pp. 27, 28.] The cleansing of the soul from sin includes the gifts of forgiveness, justification, and sanctification. And the inward cleansing of the heart is shown by the outward cleansing of the life. 7MR 341.2

God's mercy to those who sincerely repent and come to Him through Christ, knows no limit. He will pardon the most guilty, and purify the most polluted. 7MR 341.3

Brother Wales’ case has been a trouble to me, but I have a more distinct light on it, and I will now say that if Brother Wales keeps close to the Lord Jesus, he will be safe; for Christ has pledged his infinite power, faithfulness, and love to save to the uttermost. Let Brother Wales know that I have written this.—Letter 41, 1902, pp. 2, 3. (To Brother and Sister Palmer, March 18, 1902.) 7MR 341.4

Released June 29, 1976.