Ellen G. White and Her Critics

The Charge Regarding “Early Writings”

The charge of suppression in relation to the publication of Early Writings is in two parts: EGWC 273.4

a. In the words of the most prominent critic, whose ideas all others seem to have copied: “Early Writings,’ published in 1882, claims to contain all the early writings of Mrs. White, with ‘not a word omitted.’ ... But they [the omitted passages] are not [included]. Why were they suppressed?” EGWC 273.5

b. Early Writings, 1882, carries the line, “second edition,” and reprints James White’s preface to Experience and Views, 1851, under the title, “Preface to the First Edition.” This is false, continue the critics. The first edition of Mrs. White’s writings was A Word to the “Little Flock,” 1847. But no reference is made to this edition because Adventist leaders do not wish their members to know of this true first edition, which contains abandoned teachings. EGWC 273.6