“Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets,”

Matthew 7:12

A REFLECTION: “The Golden Rule: The True Standard of Christianity”

From the book “Thoughts From the Mount of Blessings,” p. 136

By Ellen G. White

The golden rule teaches, by implication, the same truth which is taught elsewhere in the Sermon on the Mount, that “with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” That which we do to others, whether it be good or evil, will surely react upon ourselves, in blessing or in cursing. Whatever we give, we shall receive again. The earthly blessings which we impart to others may be, and often are, repaid in kind. What we give does, in time of need, often come back to us in fourfold measure in the coin of the realm. But, besides this, all gifts are repaid, even in this life, in the fuller inflowing of His love, which is the sum of all heaven’s glory and its treasure. And evil imparted also returns again. Everyone who has been free to condemn or discourage, will in his own experience be brought over the ground where he has caused others to pass; he will feel what they have suffered because of his want of sympathy and tenderness.

It is the love of God toward us that has decreed this. He would lead us to abhor our own hardness of heart and to open our hearts to let Jesus abide in them. And thus, out of evil, good is brought, and what appeared a curse becomes a blessing.

The standard of the golden rule is the true standard of Christianity; anything short of it is a deception. A religion that leads men to place a low estimate upon human beings, whom Christ has esteemed of such value as to give Himself for them; a religion that would lead us to be careless of human needs, sufferings, or rights, is a spurious religion. In slighting the claims of the poor, the suffering, and the sinful, we are proving ourselves traitors to Christ. It is because men take upon themselves the name of Christ, while in life they deny His character, that Christianity has so little power in the world. The name of the Lord is blasphemed because of these things.

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2025 November/December Issue
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A Christian Nation

Lately there’s been lots of talk about this concept of what it means to be a Christian nation, or a nation under God. For many, that means that we should be uniformed in our practice of Christianity. One of the hallmarks of God’s love and thus Christianity is that it allows for freedom of choice. This principle is embedded in the golden rule.

Read Matthew 7:12

Notice the comment at the end of the verse. Jesus clarifies that this sums up all of the Torah and the writings of the prophets. Keep in mind that the New Testament hadn’t been formed yet. Jesus was saying this is the core of the faith.

Read Philippians 2:3

The disciples’ mistake was not the first time that religious leaders denied the people from receiving a divine blessing. What kind of worldview must one have to deny a person in need of a blessing, especially small children? What can we do to reverse this kind of thinking?

Compare with Matthew 7:12 with 5:38-47

Think on this. Jesus said we ought to even get along with our enemies. An underlying principle here is tolerance. According to Jesus even our enemies deserve to live in peace too. Who are the people you consider enemies? Are they political, ethnic, religious, or childhood foes? Do they deserve the same rights and privileges as you do?

Study 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, 10:23-33

It’s important to note that one of the key themes in Paul’s letters to the believers at Corinth is unity in diversity. In a cosmopolitan metropolis, the varying views, values, and practices demanded a level of tolerance. What are some ways we see this playing out in our world today?

Study Romans 14

The context in Rome was quite similar to that of Corinth. It needs to be established that Paul was writing to Christian communities. These were people who had (at least in a general sense) asserted to hold in common a set of ideals. Yet, even they were divided. How much more should we employ these principles in an environment where ideas are so varied and oppositional?  

Read Romans 16:17-18

Paul warned that there would be some who bring division in an effort to serve their own selfish desires. He also prophesied that they would be compelling speakers. Beware of silver-tongued provocateurs peddling certainty, dogmatism, and fundamentalism.

Read Romans 12:10, Galatians 5:26, Colossians 3:12-15, Ephesians 4:2-3, 32.

A true Christian nation seeks peace, goodwill, grace, compassion, and love. Let’s be careful to manifest the spirit of Christ by practicing the principles that He modeled for us.

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina. 

This article is part of our 2025 November/December Issue
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Read Matthew 19:13-15

The first thing we should reflect on is that the disciples (chosen by Jesus for the work of ministry) discouraged children from coming. Is your church accommodating to children? Do you see children as a burden or a bother? Are they a cherished, treasured, gift from God?

Read Luke 13:13-15

The disciples’ mistake was not the first time that religious leaders denied the people from receiving a divine blessing. What kind of worldview must one have to deny a person in need a blessing, especially small children? What can we do to reverse this kind of thinking?

Compare with Matthew 19:14 with Luke 18:17

Notice what Jesus said about those who receive/are welcome into the kingdom of heaven. What is it that children bring that makes them prime candidates for citizenship in the kingdom of heaven? How can we embody these characteristics?

Continue Luke 18:18-25

Pay close attention to verse 25. Could it be that we become so focused on amassing material wealth that we lose those characteristics that make us innocent, hopeful, and impressionable as children? Make a list of the ways that this disrupts our families and communities. For example, the primary reason we don’t take fun vacations is overwork.

Reread Matthew 19:13

Reflect on the fact that the people were actively and intentionally bringing their children to Jesus. There is a shift happening in our world. People are becoming more family-oriented and more spiritual. List three things you can do to place your children before Jesus regularly.

Study James 1:27

Here is straight talk from the very brother of Jesus. Known throughout antiquity as James the Just. His epistle reflects it too. He specifies that true religion takes care of children and families that are destitute. What’s one thing we can do to invest more into children and families; especially those who are at risk?

Read Psalm 127:3, Mark 9:36-37, Matthew 18:10, Ephesians 6:4, Proverbs 22:6, Isaiah 49:25

Children are our posterity. They are the ones who will carry our values into future generations. Let’s commit to being the kind of caregivers they are proud of rather than ones who are the reasons why they are broken.

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2025 September/October Issue
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“Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’ And He laid His hands on them and departed from there,”

(Matthew 19:13-15, NKJV).

A REFLECTION: When Others Neglect Them, Jesus Feels the Sorrow of Mothers

From “The Desire of Ages,” p. 429
By Ellen G. White

“The children of our hearths are as much the purchase of His blood as were the children of long ago.

“Jesus knows the burden of every mother’s heart. He who had a mother that struggled with poverty and privation sympathizes with every mother in her labors. He who made a long journey in order to relieve the anxious heart of a Canaanite woman will do as much for the mothers of today. He who gave back to the widow of Nain her only son, and who in His agony upon the cross remembered His own mother, is touched today by the mother’s sorrow. In every grief and every need He will give comfort and help.

“Let mothers come to Jesus with their perplexities. They will find grace sufficient to aid them in the management of their children. The gates are open for every mother who would lay her burdens at the Saviour’s feet. He who said, ‘Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,’ still invites the mothers to lead up their little ones to be blessed by Him. Even the babe in its mother’s arms may dwell as under the shadow of the Almighty through the faith of the praying mother. John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit from his birth. If we will live in communion with God, we too may expect the divine Spirit to mold our little ones, even from their earliest moments…In His teaching He came down to their level. He, the Majesty of heaven, did not disdain to answer their questions, and simplify His important lessons to meet their childish understanding. He planted in their minds the seeds of truth, which in after years would spring up, and bear fruit unto eternal life.”

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2025 September/October Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

Read Acts 1:3-8

This is immediately before Jesus’ ascension. Notice how they are being deputized with the express responsibility of being Jesus’ representatives on Earth. Notice too that Jesus dissuades them from the idea of temporal political power to focus on their spiritual responsibility.   

Read Acts 1:9-11

Reflect on the emotions that must have been going through the disciples’ minds as they watched Jesus ascend. They were definitely shocked; they were likely being plunged into a sudden sense of loss again (since the crucifixion). But the angels disrupt the shock and grief and remind them of their mission. Which parts of our mission mandate might we be ignoring because of our current state of grief or anguish, and how do we reclaim that mission?

Compare with Matt. 28:18-20, John 14:26-27, John 15:26-27.

Our mission mandate is clear. The task for us is to accept it. But with that mission, keep in mind that God is not leaving us to do the work alone. Jesus has promised that the Holy Spirit will be our companion, guide, and power source.   

Compare Luke 10:18-20.

Every now and again someone will raise this text. If we have power, we ought to be able to tread on serpents; to be bitten and remain unharmed. Let’s use practical wisdom here. What is much more common in Scripture is that God promises power over evil; not dangerous animals. Imagine that this could be figurative language.

Reread Acts 1:8

Look at a map of this region from Jesus’ time. Pay close attention to how Jesus tells them that their influence would be expansive. Now look at a map of your city. Imagine your influence and the influence of your church expanding in scope. How might that be possible?

Compare Matt. 24:45-51 with Luke 12:1-8.

Keep in mind that the Master has given strict instructions for managing the work while He is away. There are rewards for those who are faithful and punishments for those who are not.

Read John 14:1-3, 1 Cor. 2:9, Eph. 3:20-21.

Remember, God’s unlimited power is available to each of us. How will you use it?

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2025 July/August Issue
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“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.  Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age”’ Matthew 28:16-20.

A REFLECTION : I Am With You Always

“Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory — as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save — will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, ‘I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.’ Matthew 28:20, KJV

“Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, ‘Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.’ At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir.”

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2025 July/August Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

Read Mark 5:1-20

Try to take in this scene. Here is a man whom the people have attempted to restrain, in vain. He is thus isolated, as he is an embarrassment that brings harm to the community. Also, notice that he lives among the dead. Given the fact that he’s cutting himself continually, did he relegate himself to the graveyard because he wishes he were dead?

Read Matt. 8:28-34 and compare with Mark 5:1-20.

While Mark’s account identifies one man, Matthew asserts there were two. Could it be the disciples were unclear of the details having been so horribly terrified by the scene? One could argue that the disciples possibly even took flight to find safety at the sight of the demented man. “Who knows how many there were. We were too busy running away to count!” Do you think that the differences in the accounts impact the meaning of the story?

Compare with Luke 8:26-37. 

Modern translations of Luke’s account raises a unique detail. Luke attests that there were guards at the tomb (v. 29). What exactly were they guarding? Is it possible that they were there simply to ensure that the demon-possessed man did not escape? Also, the text details that it was the evil influence that actually led the man into “solitary places.” Do you see how isolation works here? Isolation is not only the device of Satan, but is also the strategy of the legal authorities. Do we do greater harm by isolating those who are mentally ill, or otherwise in need?    

Read Mark 5:9-10.

Notice that Jesus asks the man his name, and this man is prevented from answering even the most fundamental human question. Reflect on the ways in which mental illness can likewise disrupt the most rudimentary sense of identity, and thus, one’s social standing. How can we help restore the identity and dignity of people with these struggles?  

Read Mark 5:5

Notice how the man couldn’t rest and was tormented day and night. On its face, the man seems to exhibit a horrendous and extreme manic disorder. Is he possibly suffering from some sort of paranoia, or, more specifically, paranoid schizophrenia? Is it possible that mental and emotional instability are the results of supernatural affliction?  

Read Daniel 4:28-34.

Notice in Daniel 8:34 where the King says that his “sanity” returned. Different versions of the Bible have translated that word in various ways, but what was clear was that he lost his mental faculties and after some time, they were returned. Is this too harsh a punishment from God? 

Read Mark 5:15-20, Deut. 28:28, Philippians 4:6-7, and Isaiah 26:3.

Always remember, God remains Sovereign over every illness and dysfunction. Just as the demon-possessed man was delivered from that plague of evil spirits, so is God still able to deliver those who are troubled with any chemical, emotional, or mental imbalance, and every spiritual crisis. Will you trust God to deliver you too?

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2025 March/April Issue
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“Then they came to Jesus, and saw the one who had been demon-possessed and had the legion, sitting and clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. And those who saw it told them how it happened to him who had been demon-possessed, and about the swine. Then they began to plead with Him to depart from their region.

And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you”

Mark 5:15-19, NLT

A REFLECTION : From Terror and Torment to Peace and Tranquility

In the early morning the Saviour and His companions came to shore, and the light of the rising sun touched sea and land as with the benediction of peace. But no sooner had they stepped upon the beach than their eyes were greeted by a sight more terrible than the fury of the tempest. From some hiding place among the tombs, two madmen rushed upon them as if to tear them in pieces. Hanging about these men were parts of chains which they had broken in escaping from confinement. Their flesh was torn and bleeding where they had cut themselves with sharp stones. Their eyes glared out from their long and matted hair, the very likeness of humanity seemed to have been blotted out by the demons that possessed them, and they looked more like wild beasts than like men. 

The disciples and their companions fled in terror; but presently they noticed that Jesus was not with them, and they turned to look for Him. He was standing where they had left Him. He who had stilled the tempest, who had before met Satan and conquered him, did not flee before these demons. When the men, gnashing their teeth, and foaming at the mouth, approached Him, Jesus raised that hand which had beckoned the waves to rest, and the men could come no nearer. They stood raging but helpless before Him. 

With authority He bade the unclean spirits come out of them. His words penetrated the darkened minds of the unfortunate men. They realized dimly that One was near who could save them from the tormenting demons. They fell at the Saviour’s feet to worship Him; but when their lips were opened to entreat His mercy, the demons spoke through them, crying vehemently, “What have I to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of God most high? I beseech Thee, torment me not.” 

Jesus asked, “What is thy name?” And the answer was, “My name is Legion: for we are many.” Using the afflicted men as mediums of communication, they besought Jesus not to send them out of the country. Upon a mountainside not far distant a great herd of swine was feeding. Into these the demons asked to be allowed to enter, and Jesus suffered them. Immediately a panic seized the herd. They rushed madly down the cliff, and, unable to check themselves upon the shore, plunged into the lake, and perished.

Meanwhile a marvelous change had come over the demoniacs. Light had shone into their minds. Their eyes beamed with intelligence. The countenances, so long deformed into the image of Satan, became suddenly mild, the bloodstained hands were quiet, and with glad voices the men praised God for their deliverance. 

From Ellen G. White’s The Desire of Ages p. 337 and 338*

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2025 March/April Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

Read Luke 23:6-12

This exchange is borderline bizarre. It is one of the most profound images of Jesus. He knows Herod doesn’t have the right mindset. Miracles are not for entertainment. This is not a magic show. Therefore, He remained silent. 

Review Matthew 14:1-12

Think on this. John the Baptist was Jesus’s biological cousin. While we can’t be sure of exactly how Jesus felt about Herod, what we do know is that He hadn’t forgotten it.

Compare Luke 23:6-12 with Luke 13:31-33. 

Is it wrong that Jesus referred to Herod as a fox? The tone certainly seems disparaging. Could it be that Jesus knew that Herod was corrupt to the core? How do you relate to such a person?        

Compare Matthew 7:6, Proverbs 27:46, Matthew 15:26

The Bible makes it clear that some people and situations are best not to be entertained. Can you think of a time when it was best that you be quiet or bow out altogether?

Study Hebrews 12:2, Isaiah 53:7

Notice that Jesus was resolute concerning His purpose. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to fold under pressure against your purpose and values.  

Read Acts 5:27-33

Notice how even under the threat of death, the apostles would not relinquish their conviction. In what ways are you being challenged right now that require that you to reaffirm your stance?

Read Daniel 3:16-18.

Jesus lived according to principle. The three Hebrew boys lived according to principle. May we be found amongst those who maintained their integrity even in the midst of fierce trial. 

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2024 November/December Issue
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“Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, ‘Dear woman, here is your son.’ And he said to this disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from then on this disciple took her into his home” (John 19:25-27)

A REFLECTION : Profound Silence

When Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad.” He had never before met the Saviour, but “he was desirous to see Him of a long season, because he had heard many things of Him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by Him.’ This Herod was he whose hands were stained with the blood of John the Baptist. When Herod first heard of Jesus, he was terror-stricken, and said, “It is John, whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead;” “therefore mighty works do show forth themselves in him.” Mark 6:16; Matthew 14:2. Yet Herod desired to see Jesus. Now there was opportunity to save the life of this prophet, and the king hoped to banish forever from his mind the memory of that bloody head brought to him in a charger. He also desired to have his curiosity gratified, and thought that if Christ were given any prospect of release, He would do anything that was asked of Him. 

“A large company of the priests and elders had accompanied Christ to Herod. And when the Saviour was brought in, these dignitaries, all speaking excitedly, urged their accusations against Him. But Herod paid little regard to their charges. He commanded silence, desiring an opportunity to question Christ. He ordered that the fetters of Christ should be unloosed, at the same time charging His enemies with roughly treating Him. Looking with compassion into the serene face of the world’s Redeemer, he read in it only wisdom and purity. He as well as Pilate was satisfied that Christ had been accused through malice and envy. 

“Herod questioned Christ in many words, but throughout the Saviour maintained a profound silence. At the command of the king, the decrepit and maimed were then called in, and Christ was ordered to prove His claims by working a miracle. ‘Men say that Thou canst heal the sick’, said Herod. I am anxious to see that Thy widespread fame has not been belied. Jesus did not respond, and Herod still continued to urge: ‘If Thou canst work miracles for others, work them now for Thine own good, and it will serve Thee a good purpose.’ Again he commanded, Show us a sign that Thou hast the power with which rumor hath accredited Thee. But Christ was as one who heard and saw not. The Son of God had taken upon Himself man’s nature. He must do as man must do in like circumstances. Therefore He would not work a miracle to save Himself the pain and humiliation that man must endure when placed in a similar position.”

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2024 November/December Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

Read John 19:26-27

Jesus is quite literally in the process of dying, yet He pauses to ensure that the needs of His widowed mother will be cared for. We know that Mary was a widow, otherwise she would not have needed a surrogate.

Study 1 Timothy 5:3-16

Have you ever conducted a Google search for all the references in Scripture to our responsibility to care for widows? Try it now. They are numerous. The text above, as do the others, show God’s priority here.

Reread John 19:26-27.

You may have missed it, but the directive of Jesus is two-fold. John must care for Mary. Yet, Mary must also care for John. Jesus knows that John will need comfort too.      

Compare John 8:29 with Matthew 27:46

Imagine the emotional anguish Jesus must have endured in feeling spiritually separated from the Father on the cross. Have you ever agonized about feeling distant from God?

Analyze Genesis 3:8-10

The text implies that it was common for God to come to the garden to visit and uncommon for Adam and Eve to be absent. What does this tell us about sin’s effect on God’s plan?

Compare Isaiah 1:2-3, John 1:12, 2 Corinthians 5:18, Malachi 4:6.

This is the age of reconciliation. Is there a parent or family member that you need to be reconciled with? Reconciliation is the result of the good work of the gospel.

Read Revelation 21:3-5

In heaven, there will be no more brokenness, no more broken and strained relationships. All will be restored. Pray that God will begin to do the restorative work in you right now.

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2024 September/October Issue
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Perfect Example of Family Love

“Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, ‘Dear woman, here is your son.’ And he said to this disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ And from then on this disciple took her into his home” (John 19:25-27)

A REFLECTION : Last Thoughts of Mom

From Ellen G. White’s The Desire of Ages, the chapter titled “Calvary.”

As the eyes of Jesus wandered over the multitude about Him, one figure arrested His attention. At the foot of the cross stood His mother, supported by the disciple John. She could not endure to remain away from her Son; and John, knowing that the end was near, had brought her again to the cross. In His dying hour, Christ remembered His mother. Looking into her grief-stricken face and then upon John, He said to her,

“Woman, behold thy son!” then to John, “Behold thy mother!” John understood Christ’s words, and accepted the trust. He at once took Mary to his home, and from that hour cared for her tenderly.

O pitiful, loving Saviour; amid all His physical pain and mental anguish, He had a thoughtful care for His mother! He had no money with which to provide for her comfort; but He was enshrined in the heart of John, and He gave His mother to him as a precious legacy. Thus He provided for her that which she most needed,—the tender sympathy of one who loved her because she loved Jesus. And in receiving her as a sacred trust, John was receiving a great blessing. She was a constant reminder of his beloved Master.

The perfect example of Christ’s filial love shines forth with undimmed luster from the mist of ages. For nearly thirty years Jesus by His daily toil had helped bear the burdens of the home. And now, even in His last agony, He remembers to provide for His sorrowing, widowed mother. The same spirit will be seen in every disciple of our Lord. Those who follow Christ will feel that it is a part of their religion to respect and provide for their parents. From the heart where His love is cherished, father and mother will never fail of receiving thoughtful care and tender sympathy…

Upon Christ as our substitute and surety was laid the iniquity of us all. He was counted a transgressor, that He might redeem us from the condemnation of the law. The guilt of every descendant of Adam was pressing upon His heart. The wrath of God against sin, the terrible manifestation of His displeasure because of iniquity, filled the soul of His Son with consternation. All His life Christ had been publishing to a fallen world the good news of the Father’s mercy and pardoning love. Salvation for the chief of sinners was His theme. But now with the terrible weight of guilt He bears, He cannot see the Father’s reconciling face. The withdrawal of the divine countenance from the Saviour in this hour of supreme anguish pierced His heart with a sorrow that can never be fully understood by man. So great was this agony that His physical pain was hardly felt.

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2024 September/October Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

(1) Read Luke 23:32-43

Notice that Jesus is crucified between two criminals and surrounded by people who jeer and sneer at Him. Reflect on the fact that the thief on the cross was the only one to speak humbly and respectfully to Jesus while He was hanging on the cross.

(2) Analyze Luke 23:40-42.

Have you ever done something so regretful that you felt overwhelming, real remorse? This is that moment for the thief on the cross. In what ways can we show remorse healthily?

(3) Compare with Psalm 51:16-17.

The psalmist clarifies what it is that God really wants. How do we know if our hearts are truly broken and contrite?

(4) Contrast with James 4:6, Proverbs 3:34, Proverbs 16:18, Proverbs 29:23

Reflect on all those around the cross who exhibited a spirit of pride. Yet, God resists the proud. What are some ways that we can combat pride and arrogance?

(5) Reread Luke 23:42-43.

Notice the heartfelt prayer. This is the moment that this thief became a disciple. Imagine asking God to keep you in mind. Can you think of anything you need God to remember concerning you right now?

(6) Compare Luke 23:43 with John 14:1-3.

What the thief didn’t know was that Jesus had already planned to make some special housing arrangements. Have you asked God to reserve your spot? If not, do that right now.

(7) Read Revelation 15:2-4.

The redeemed in heaven will sing a very unique song; “the song of Moses and the Lamb” signals the validity of the law and the power of grace. Our heavenly destiny is sure because of the matchless grace of the Almighty God.

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CHRISTOPHER C. THOMPSON, D.MIN is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2024 July/August Issue
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How Just Being Jesus Caused a Crisis of Faith

“One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, ‘So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!’ But the other criminal protested. ‘Don’t you even fear God when you are dying? We deserve to die for our evil deeds, but this man hasn’t done one thing wrong.’ Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.’ And Jesus replied, ‘Today you will be with me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise.’”

Luke 23:39-43, The Living Bible

A REFLECTION : Words of Love, Compassion and Power

From Ellen G. White’s The Desire of Ages, the chapter titled “Calvary.”

To Jesus in His agony on the cross there came one gleam of comfort. It was the prayer of the penitent thief. Both the men who were crucified with Jesus had at first railed upon Him; and one under his suffering only became more desperate and defiant. But not so with his companion. This man was not a hardened criminal; he had been led astray by evil associations, but he was less guilty than many of those who stood beside the cross reviling the Saviour.

He had seen and heard Jesus, and had been convicted by His teaching, but he had been turned away from Him by the priests and rulers. Seeking to stifle conviction, he had plunged deeper and deeper into sin, until he was arrested, tried as a criminal, and condemned to die on the cross.

In the judgment hall and on the way to Calvary he had been in company with Jesus. He had heard Pilate declare, “I find no fault in Him” (John 19:4). He had marked His godlike bearing, and His pitying forgiveness of His tormentors.

On the cross he sees the many great religionists shoot out the tongue with scorn, and ridicule the Lord Jesus. He sees the wagging heads. He hears the upbraiding speeches taken up by his companion in guilt: “If Thou be Christ, save Thyself and us.”

Among the passers-by he hears many defending Jesus. He hears them repeat His words, and tell of His works. The conviction comes back to him that this is the Christ. Turning to his fellow criminal he says, “Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?”

The dying thieves have no longer anything to fear from man. But upon one of them presses the conviction that there is a God to fear, a future to cause him to tremble. And now, all sin-polluted as it is, his life history is about to close.

“And we indeed justly,” he moans; “for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this Man hath done nothing amiss.”

There is no question now. There are no doubts, no reproaches. When condemned for his crime, the thief had become hopeless and despairing; but strange, tender thoughts now spring up. He calls to mind all he has heard of Jesus, how He has healed the sick and pardoned sin. He has heard the words of those who believed in Jesus and followed Him weeping. He has seen and read the title above the Saviour’s head. He has heard the passers-by repeat it, some with grieved, quivering lips, others with jesting and mockery.

The Holy Spirit illuminates his mind, and little by little the chain of evidence is joined together. In Jesus, bruised, mocked, and hanging upon the cross, he sees the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. Hope is mingled with anguish in his voice as the helpless, dying soul casts himself upon a dying Saviour.

“Lord, remember me,” he cries, “when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.”

Quickly the answer came. Soft and melodious the tone, full of love, compassion, and power the words: Verily I say unto thee today, Thou shalt be with Me in paradise.

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

This article is part of our 2024 July/August Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

This is often the starting point of our biblical journey, and it is a good one. It is a description of expectation and current reality. The transition from hope, or “hoped for” to evidence, is the space where faith is often lost. The hope stage.

I invite you to journal for the next seven weeks. Write out your prayers. As the weeks move forward, write the changes in your mindset from day to day about the topics you have written about and how God has used them to increase your faith, no matter the result from day to day.

(1) Read Hebrews 11
What grabs your attention about the stories of those mentioned? Note: If you do not know the stories of those mentioned, look them up and read about their faith journey.

(2) Though I am not sure of his faith journey prior to our biblical encounter with him in 2 Kings 5, Naaman seems to be aware of spiritual things and God. His medical condition meant a death sentence because Leprosy proved not only debilitating, but fatal in the days of biblical writing. Money was not going to fix his leprosy, and he was losing hope. An unlikely character in his story, a slave girl, gives him hope that he can be healed if he would see a prophet in Samaria. With his hope restored Naaman arrives at the prophet’s house ready to be healed, but this encounter goes nowhere close to how he thought it would go. Dip into the Jordan river seven times, he was told. Odd? Absolutely! Beneath a man of his success and stature? In his opinion, yes. Hope was lost again, and he leaves. Reflect on a key moment when your faith in God grew deeper, or a moment when you felt deep disappointment.

(3) Before we move on, let’s take a look at the girl who shared with Naaman that he should go and see this prophet. She must have had faith too! Her belief that God was able, through the prophet, to heal him was next level. A lot was at stake for her and her faith. She believed before the healing and lived in the “evidence not seen” as it related to Naaman. Faith to speak up, faith to believe, faith with your livelihood and perhaps life on the line is next level faith. Even her life position did not cause a callousness toward humanity because her faith transcended her difficult life. We could learn from her approach to life, and how we can still speak well of God and maintain our faith in Him despite life’s challenges. How do you deal with the challenges of what you thought would happen versus what actually happened in real life?

(4) Naaman is angry because he thought that God would move in a specific way. At its worst, the act of putting God in a box is a sure way to lose our faith. At its best, it limits faith. Faith is about believing what God can do, and working with God to bring it to pass. Is it wrong to have expectations and be direct with God about the answer we want? Not at all. Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Be bold in your faith, just don’t put God in a box. Naaman almost missed it.

(5) Foundations are critical to anything you want to last. I am often saddened when I see the devastation of homes due to natural disasters, whether they be hurricanes, tornadoes, or earthquakes to name a few, but there is often one part that remains in place, the foundation.

That is what our faith can be like, a foundation that is unbothered by the storms, its one job is to remain so that if rebuilding is needed, the first step has been taken care of and is ready. Building foundations takes work and so does faith. The Bible speaks of the work that faith demands of us in James 2:14-17.

(6) Our experience deeply impacts how we view God and thus our faith in God. When our faith gets tired and we feel as if we are losing more than winning, it is easy to say, “What is wrong with me, and why does it seem as if I take one step forward and fall two steps back?” Here’s a helpful idea, instead of asking, “What is wrong with me?,” ask, “What happened to me?” For the sake of this topic, I would add the words, “What happened to me that has caused me to waver in my faith?” “What happened to me? What is God building within me?” Answering these questions may lead you to where your faith in God becomes stronger.

(7) All around the world, the resurrection of Jesus is celebrated. It is a time of deep reflection and celebration. It is also the cornerstone of all Christian belief (1 Corinthians 15:14-16). If Jesus is still in a tomb, we have wasted countless hours and resources. None of it matters without the resurrection. The resurrection is the start and finish of our faith. If we are going to grow our faith, we should base it on a solid foundation. Faith as a principle and faith as an experience are two different things, and they work together to form our spiritual journey with God.
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BARON SAVORY pastors the Valley Fellowship SDA Church in Rialto, California.

This article is part of our 2024 May/June Issue
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How Just Being Jesus Caused a Crisis of Faith

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.

On hearing his words, some of the people said,
“Surely this man is the Prophet.” Others said,
“He is the Messiah.” Still others asked,
“How can the Messiah come from Galilee?” Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David’s descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?

Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and the Pharisees, who asked them,
“Why didn’t you bring him in?”
“No one ever spoke the way this man does,” the guards replied.
“You mean he has deceived you also?” the Pharisees retorted.
“Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him?” No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law—there is a curse on them.

Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked,
“Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing? They replied,
“Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee.”
Then they all went home.

A REFLECTION : Search the scriptures, and watch your faith grow.

FAITH LOADING

Our faith is built and destroyed one experience at a time. The more success we experience, the more faith builds. We can endure a few challenges and difficulties along the way, and if we are honest, when a moment of reflection presents itself, massive growth frequently follows deeply challenging times. Even if that moment rattled you, intentionally addressing and rebuilding beyond those moments can lead to deeper and more fulfilling relationships.

But yet for some, faith is lost, and so are you. You are not alone. Many things chip away at a fragile faith and it seems easier to just start from scratch, or even abandon faith in the divine and simply lean on your own understanding. It just feels safer. What happens then? How do we grow from that space to a growing faith in the divine again?

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

This article is part of our 2024 May/June Issue
Subscribe –>

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*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

The Jews used the occasion of the Passover to overcharge eager worshippers for use of the temple coin. The unique temple coin was the only currency accepted for offerings in the temple. The only currency exchange that provided the temple coin was — surprise, surprise — run by the priests and located inside the temple. The priests were price-gouging with an exorbitant exchange rate and overcharging for animals that could be offered as sacrifices. Can you think of a specific example of abuse of power in the present-day that you believe makes God angry?

Read Mark 11:15-18, and Luke 19:45-47

Notice the response of the religious leaders. From that point on they were looking for a way to kill Jesus. It’s important to note that this is the start of what we call “Holy Week.” It was the very last week of Jesus’ natural life. This event took place on Sunday. It is likely that Jesus has long been aware that, His life will end in a brutal sacrifice for the salvation of humankind. Yet, it’s significant that the spark that lit the fire was defending people from abuse.

Read John 2:12-22

Many scholars believe that the account of the temple cleansing that is recorded in John’s Gospel is a separate event than the one that is mentioned in the other three. John’s account took place at the very beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, and the account recorded in the other three gospels took place at the very end. It’s important to note that Jesus was fully invested in ridding the temple of this injustice. What example of injustice burns you up with anger whenever you see it? What injustices are you committed to fight against? 

Read Matthew 21:13 again. Compare with Isaiah 56:7, Jeremiah 7:11 

As Jesus was disrupting this annual price-gouging event of the moneychangers He quoted two important passages from two major prophets. The text in Isaiah is important because it describes God’s desire to allow even groups of people who were previously rejected to be accepted in the temple among the chosen people (cf. Isaiah 56:3-4, Deut.23:1-3). In Jeremiah 7 we have a similar rebuke of the religious leaders. God’s expectations of leaders remain; from the period of the patriarchs and prophets until today. 

Read Matthew 21:14-16

Ellen White (The Desire of Ages, p. 163) paints the picture of that moment after Jesus cleared the temple. 

“When they fled, the poor remained behind; and these were now looking to Jesus, whose countenance expressed His love and sympathy. With tears in His eyes, He said to the trembling ones around Him: Fear not; I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me. For this cause came I into the world. The people pressed into Christ’s presence with urgent, pitiful appeals: Master, bless me. His ear heard every cry. With pity exceeding that of a tender mother He bent over the suffering little ones. All received attention. Everyone was healed of whatever disease he had. The dumb opened their lips in praise; the blind beheld the face of their Restorer. The hearts of the sufferers were made glad.”  

In which ways can you help extend Jesus’ ministry of compassion in your local church? 

Read Mark 2:17, Luke 4:16-21, Matthew 20:20-28.

“Yet, love of the helpless one, love of the poor and the stranger, are the beginning of brotherly love. To love one’s flesh and blood is no achievement. The animal loves its young and cares for them. The helpless one loves his master, since his life depends on him; the child loves his parents, since he needs them. Only in the love of those who do not serve a purpose, love begins to unfold. Significantly, in the Old Testament, the central object of man’s love is the poor, the stranger, the widow and the orphan, and eventually the national enemy, the Egyptian and the Edomite. By having compassion for the helpless one, man begins to develop love for his brother; and in his love for himself he also loves the one who is in need of help, the frail, insecure human being. Compassion implies the element of knowledge and of identification. “ou know the heart of the stranger,” says the Old Testament, “for you were strangers in the land of Egypt;. . . therefore love the stranger!” (Erich Fromm, The Art of Loving, 48).

Read Proverbs 14:31, Proverbs 16:19, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 22:9, Proverbs 22:16

Make a list of the ways in which you might enlist the people in your circle in the fight against injustice. Highlight specific church-oriented activities that promote justice. Share that list with your friends and family and make a commitment to putting some of those strategies into practice. 

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Christopher C. Thompson  is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2024 January/February Issue
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A REFLECTION : The Temple Cleansed Again  

“And the Jews’ passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise. And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up” (John 2:13-17, KJV). 

At the beginning of His ministry, Christ had driven from the temple those who defiled it by their unholy traffic; and His stern and godlike demeanor had struck terror to the hearts of the scheming traders. At the close of His mission He came again to the temple, and found it still desecrated as before. The condition of things was even worse than before. The outer court of the temple was like a vast cattle yard. With the cries of the animals and the sharp chinking of coin was mingled the sound of angry altercation between traffickers, and among them were heard the voices of men in sacred office. The dignitaries of the temple were themselves engaged in buying and selling and the exchange of money. So completely were they controlled by their greed of gain that in the sight of God they were no better than thieves.  

Little did the priests and rulers realize the solemnity of the work which it was theirs to perform. At every Passover and Feast of Tabernacles, thousands of animals were slain, and their blood was caught by the priests and poured upon the altar. The Jews had become familiar with the offering of blood, and had almost lost sight of the fact that it was sin which made necessary all this shedding of the blood of beasts. They did not discern that it prefigured the blood of God’s dear Son, which was to be shed for the life of the world, and that by the offering of sacrifices men were to be directed to a crucified Redeemer.  

Jesus looked upon the innocent victims of sacrifice, and saw how the Jews had made these great convocations scenes of bloodshed and cruelty. In place of humble repentance of sin, they had multiplied the sacrifice of beasts, as if God could be honored by a heartless service. The priests and rulers had hardened their hearts through selfishness and avarice. The very symbols pointing to the Lamb of God they had made a means of getting gain. Thus in the eyes of the people the sacredness of the sacrificial service had been in a great measure destroyed. The indignation of Jesus was stirred; He knew that His blood, so soon to be shed for the sins of the world, would be as little appreciated by the priests and elders as was the blood of beasts which they kept incessantly flowing.” 

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

This article is part of our 2024 January/February Issue
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*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.

Read John 13:34-35

The reason why this is so significant is because we have constructed a litany of characteristics that supposedly determine whether one is a true follower of Christ. Some would say that it’s glossolalia, or speaking in an unknown tongue; others might say that it’s baptism that is specifically in the name of Jesus; others say it must be in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. There are those who believe it to be access to secret knowledge. Some say it’s strict adherence to dietary laws, or adherence to particular worship days. However, there is only one special determinant to definitively identify the followers of Jesus, and Jesus gave it Himself: love. John 13:35 is one of the most iconic sayings of Jesus. It is so iconic because it encapsulates the totality of the Christian experience. If we do this one thing it will cover all the bases and check all the boxes.

Read 1 Corinthians 13

The fact is, love is hard work. Whenever I read 1 Corinthians 13, I immediately see all the ways that I fall short. When we look closely at all the nuances of what real love is like, it almost seems like an impossibility. When we see our inadequacy in failing to love well, it should drive us to seek God for a new heart, and the ability to love well. Who’s the most loving person you know? Think of three living people you know who are the most loving. Reflect on their manner of being. If possible, reach out to them to inquire what they think the secret of love is.

Read Romans 13:8-10 

Notice that Jesus didn’t say that we would know by the day they worship if we are His followers. He didn’t say that we would know by the special teachings we espouse that we are His followers. He didn’t say that we would know by a strict adherence to health food choices that we are His followers. The one thing that He said would distinguish us is our love. This single element is the essential ingredient of the Christian experience, and it is distillation and the summation of Christianity as a whole. While Jesus did say, “If you love me keep my commandments,” He also said that love for God and neighbors was the summation of the law and the prophets. And further, that people would know we are Christians by the love we have for others.

Read Galatians 6:1-2, 10

Jesus said, “By this will all men know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” Let’s look a little closer at this. Jesus didn’t actually say people will know us by the love we have for everyone we meet. He actually said, people would know by the love they had for “each other.” Allow me to explain it this way. Think of your neighbors. I know this might be a stretch for some people but imagine that you absolutely love your neighbors. Imagine that you’re very close to them. You might even consider them to be a part of the family, but you still love and care for your family more. What are some ways we can make sure we offer special support and care for those within the family of believers?

Read Read 1 John 4:7-21

“There are many who have a circumstantial religion, which is in accordance with what they meet in the family and in their business relations with each other. This affects their religion. Their words are not right. They are not kindly, courteous, [and] respectful to one another. When you have a full salvation, it will be when you have dug out by the roots the root of selfishness, that bitter root which divides hearts. God expects altogether a different spirit than has been revealed on this ground. God calls for you to make an entire surrender, not a few outward changes. He calls for every soul to seek the Lord for his own present and eternal good. It is pitiful to see what little faith and love is manifested for God and for one another. The apostle represents this as biting and devouring one another. What a representation! We should love one another as Christ has loved us”  (E.G. White, Manuscript 160, 1898).

Read Ephesians 3:17-19

“Yet, love of the helpless one, love of the poor and the stranger, are the beginning of brotherly love. To love one’s flesh and blood is no achievement. The animal loves its young and cares for them. The helpless one loves his master, since his life depends on him; the child loves his parents, since he needs them. Only in the love of those who do not serve a purpose, love begins to unfold. Significantly, in the Old Testament, the central object of man’s love is the poor, the stranger, the widow and the orphan, and eventually the national enemy, the Egyptian and the Edomite. By having compassion for the helpless one, man begins to develop love for his brother; and in his love for himself he also loves the one who is in need of help, the frail, insecure human being. Compassion implies the element of knowledge and of identification. “ou know the heart of the stranger,” says the Old Testament, “for you were strangers in the land of Egypt;. . . therefore love the stranger!” (Erich Fromm, The Art of Loving, 48).

Reread John 13:34-35 and 1 Corinthians 13

Make three separate lists of the ways in which we might demonstrate greater love for (1) strangers and acquaintances; (2) friends, neighbors, and coworkers; and (3) family and church members/fellow believers.

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Christopher C. Thompson  is an adjunct professor in the School of Religion and Theology at Oakwood University. He serves as the Executive Director of Thumbs Up, Inc., and pastor of Lighthouse Church in Beaufort, South Carolina.

This article is part of our 2023 November/December Issue
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A REFLECTION : The New Commandment

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34, 35, KJV).

These are the credentials that Christ’s followers bear, showing to the world that they are true disciples. By their unity and love for one another, they reveal to the world the love wherewith Christ has loved them. God would have us cherish love for one another, that he may be glorified in us. Love like Christ’s will bear the stress of circumstances. It will never abate nor change. As he loved us, even so are we to love one another.

Religion is founded upon love to God, which also leads us to love one another. It is full of gratitude, humility, long-suffering. It is self-sacrificing, forbearing, merciful, and forgiving. It sanctifies the whole life and extends its influence over others. Those who love God cannot harbor hatred or envy. When the heavenly principle of eternal love fills the heart, it will flow out to others, not merely because favors are received of them, but because love is the principle of action, and modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and elevates the affections. This love is not contracted, so as merely to include “me and mine,” but is as broad as the world and as high as heaven. It is in harmony with that of the angel workers. This love, cherished in the soul, sweetens the entire life, and sheds a refining influence on all around. Possessing it, we cannot but be happy, let fortune smile or frown. And if we love God with all the heart, we must love his children also. 

– The Youth Instructor, December 23, 1897

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ELLEN G. WHITE (1827-1915), one of the most published authors in the world, named one of the “100 Most Significant Americans of All Time” by the Smithsonian Institution in 2014, was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

This article is part of our 2023 November/December Issue
Subscribe –>

_________________

*You can read The Desire of Ages in its entirety online at www.whiteestate.org/onlinebooks.