Ellen G. White and Her Critics

Mrs. White on Primacy of Bible

Mrs. White is also clearly on record as to the primacy of the Bible and the relation of her writings to it. In her first published work, printed in 1851, she declares, almost in the closing sentences: EGWC 88.5

“I recommend to you, dear reader, the word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the ‘LAST DAYS;’ not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of his people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth.”—Experience and Views, 64. (See also Early Writings, 78.) EGWC 88.6

A half century later we hear her expressing the same thought regarding the relation of her writings to the Bible: EGWC 88.7

“Little heed is given to the Bible, and the Lord has given a lesser light to lead men and women to the greater light.”—The Review and Herald, January 20, 1903, p. 15. EGWC 88.8

No, we do not minimize the Bible because we believe in Mrs. White’s visions and in her writings. Seventh-day Adventists are not willing to take second place to anyone in their devotion to and their study and promotion of the Bible. Sabbath morning finds us coming to church with the Holy Book under our arms. Printers of the finest grade of Bible testify that Adventists are among their best customers. Strange, indeed, if we had found a substitute Bible in Mrs. White’s writings! EGWC 88.9