Why I Believe in the Spirit of Prophecyponderscripture.org/Word Docs/EllenWhite.doc · Web...

Is Ellen White the “Spirit of

Prophecy?”By W. Glenn Moore

As a Seventh-Day Adventist for over 20 years I had been taught that the “Spirit of Prophecy” is the same as the writings of Ellen G. White. Is that true? Can this be supported from Scripture? Here in this booklet we will take an unbiased look at this teaching from Scripture and see what we can learn that will help us in our spiritual growth. Remember, our rules of study are very simple—we will obtain all of our interpretations from Scripture and not lean “unto our own understanding.”

Table of Contents

I HAD A DREAM................................................................................................................1

THE KEY IS IN REVELATION 12:17.....................................................................................2

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS?.................................4

WHAT IS THE LAW?............................................................................................................4CONCLUSION:.....................................................................................................................5

WHAT ARE THE COMMANDMENTS?.........................................................................8

IT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE!.........................................................................................10

THE 10 DECLARATIONS...............................................................................................12

WHO IS THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY?.......................................................................13

HOW TO RECOGNIZE A TRUE PROPHET............................................................................13DOES ELLEN WHITE PASS THE TEST?..............................................................................15DID ELLEN WHITE CALL UPON THE NAMES OF OTHER GODS?......................................17

ARE THERE CONTRADICTIONS IN THE TESTIMONIES?..................................20

THE SHUT DOOR...............................................................................................................20IS POLYGAMY A SIN?.......................................................................................................23WAS DAVID’S POLYGAMY CONDEMNED BY THE GOSPEL?.............................................25DID THE FLOOD DESTROY EVERYTHING IN THE EARTH?................................................26THE FREE GIFT OF HEALING............................................................................................26CAN WE EAT CHEESE?.....................................................................................................27FORBIDDING MARRIAGES.................................................................................................27FINAL CONCLUSION..........................................................................................................28

WHO IS THE REMNANT?..............................................................................................30

HOW TO RECOGNIZE THE REMNANT................................................................................31

THE DREAM INTERPRETED.......................................................................................34

BEYOND ADVENTISM.......................................................................................................35

Appendix..............................................................................................................................37

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Chapter One

I Had a DreamAbout 10 years into my Adventist experience I had a dream. Now everyone has dreams, and I often times forget my dreams almost as soon as I awake from sleep. However, this dream was different. It was different because it was like a shock that woke me out of my stupor. I will give my own interpretation for this dream in the last chapter of this booklet. So, for now here is my dream:

I dreamed that I went back in time. I went back to a time when men and women traveled by horseback, carriage and by rail. I went back to the 19th century.

In my dream I went to the home of Ellen G. White. There were many visitors there and people going and coming. As I went there I do not remember speaking to anyone at the door, as it seems that it was an open house. We were all free to enter and leave at will. Inside the house I looked around and saw through a window Ellen White herself sitting outside in a patio and asked permission from someone to see her. They said that it was all right.

Mrs. White was sitting alone in a private garden patio next to the house. I opened the door and reverently walked up to her to speak with her. Taking off my hat I approached her and took her by the hand and respectfully kissed her hand, just like people often did at that time in history. And then I spoke with her. I said to her, “I have a secret to tell you”. She nodded and I continued, “I am from the future!”. “Oh!”, she said in a concerned tone of voice, “You must go back!” Then she paused and continued her response, “You must go back—you do not belong here!” I was stunned and horrified. I did not know what to say. Then the next thing I knew I awoke from my dream and unlike many other dreams I have had, I remembered it and now this dream has continued to haunt me and caused me to contemplate my own religious experience for many years.

For weeks and months after having this dream I contemplated the dream and on a few rare occasions shared the dream with trusted friends. What does the dream mean? What is the final conclusion? Well, we will study the Scripture first and save the answer till the last chapter. At least it caused me to think about inspiration

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and study it much more closely than before. I believe the basic purpose of the dream was to bring me back into harmony with the teachings of Scripture and not put total reliance upon the opinions of others—no matter what their claims may be. Here in this presentation we will take a very close look at the fundamental beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists regarding Ellen White, the “Spirit of Prophecy,” the remnant, the commandments and the whole setting of prophetic understanding that Adventists have. Whatever you think that my dream meant, in the end we must remember that dreams do not necessarily make one a prophet. Nor is a dream always communication from our heavenly Father. It could be that a dream comes because of “something we ate” or “something that is eating on us”. Regardless of the source of this dream, it did cause me to reevaluate the role of prophetic inspiration. So, whatever the reason for this dream, let us remember that we must base all of our beliefs on Scripture and not on dreams—whether from others or ourselves.

In this presentation we will discuss the inspiration of Ellen White and so it is expected that some will be offended. Let it be stated that while we will attempt to be honest in our appraisal we will avoid accusing her of being a false prophet. At the same time, we will not fall into the trap of placing her on a pedestal. And, yes, I do believe in the “Spirit of Prophecy”—but just exactly what is that? Here we will discover the answer to that and many other questions of eternal value.

The Key is in Revelation 12:17

To begin with we will go directly to the prophecy that is at the heart of not only this issue but of the entire foundation of Seventh-day Adventist beliefs. Our indepth understanding of that text will have a tremendous impact upon our whole belief system. That prophecy is found in Revelation 12:17

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of the Almighty, and have the testimony of Yahushua Messiah.” (Revelation 12:17)

What does this prophecy mean? Looking at it from my SDA perspective and background I had been led to believe that it means simply this: The dragon (Satan) is angry with the woman (the true church) and goes out to make war with the remnant of that church (the Seventh-day Adventist Church) which keeps the commandments of our heavenly Father (The 10 commandments of Exodus 20) and have the testimony of the Messiah. That “testimony” is then explained to be the “spirit of prophecy” (Ellen White’s testimonies) based on Revelation 19:10. By “spirit of prophecy” that is interpreted to mean the “gift of prophecy” which was believed to have been given to Ellen White. Therefore, the logical conclusion most Adventists and I came to (whether verbally or non-verbally) was “We have the truth! We keep all the commandments, we have faith in the atoning sacrifice of the Messiah, and we have Ellen White as the last day prophet—therefore we are that

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Is Ellen White the “Spirit of Prophecy?”

remnant church of Revelation 12:17.” Is this true? Is it false? Is it truth mixed with error? Can we find the answer in the Scriptures?

Let us examine this from the sole perspective of Scripture, shall we? We will examine it point by point. Now remember, we will be respectful and unbiased regarding our study of this subject. But we will find the truth.

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Chapter Two

What Does it Mean to Keep the Commandments?So many times in my experience as an Adventist I had tried to impress upon the people the importance of obedience to the commandments in all aspects. However, for the most part people turn away from such talk as “legalism”, saying we are under grace and not the law—therefore we are not required to keep the commandments. “Well”, I ask, “I agree we are under grace—but Is it o.k. for us to commit murder?” They say, “No, of course not”. “…but that is part of the commandments where it says, ‘Thou shalt not kill””, I say. With that they can give no answer. And it appears that I have won the argument. But wait, there’s more!

Have I really won the argument? Or is it possible that the people I am conversing with are so ignorant of Scripture themselves that they cannot see through the obvious error to which I also subscribe to? If we tell people that the “law” was not done away with and that we are still obligated to obey this “law” which we define as the “10 Commandments”, are we telling the truth? Then we might continue and (if they are still listening) we tell the people that there is a “moral law” and a “ceremonial law”. According to this teaching, the 10 commandments are the “moral law” and the rest of the commandments of Scripture fall into the category of the “ceremonial law” or “law of Moses” (true name is Moshe). According to this thinking, we are no longer under obligation to keep the “ceremonial law” (as it is often called). Therefore, we tell people on the one hand that the law is still in effect. Then, later on we tell them that part of that law has been done away with (or fulfilled). Of course, when it comes to the subject of tithing and clean/unclean foods we don’t mind “resurrecting” a few of these regulations. Wouldn’t that be showing “partiality” in regard to the “law”?

So what is the problem, you ask. The problem is that such a belief as this is contrary to Scripture!!! If part of the “law of Moses” is called the “ceremonial law” where do we go to find such an expression. Nada! Not there!! The phrase “ceremonial law” cannot even be found in Scripture. The phrase “moral law” also cannot be found in Scripture. Is there a distinction between the “ceremonial law” and the “moral law”? If it is so (and we have no evidence of this), then what we are really saying (in effect) is that part of that law given by Yahweh to Moshe was an “immoral law”! For whatever was not part of that supposed “moral law” would by obvious contrast have to be “immoral”!! Can we say that? Certainly not!

What is the Law?

Many times we hear people who profess belief in Scripture that those who seek to obey the law of Moses (Moshe) are under a curse. And yet, according to

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Scripture, it is just the opposite! Those who say that the “law” is evil or “immoral” are truly the ones who are “cursed”. Those who are partial in regards to what part of the law they will obey are also under that same curse. Now notice the clear evidence that proves this as it is given in the prophecy of Malachi:

“And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith Yahweh of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. . . . And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with Levi, saith Yahweh of hosts. My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him, for the fear wherewith he feared ame, and was afraid before my name. The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity. For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of Yahweh of hosts. But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith Yahweh of hosts. Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.” (Malachi 2:1-2,4-9)

Now we know from reading this that the law has certainly not been done away with. But those who are partial (who pick and choose what they will or will not obey) are also cursed. So, what is the law and what are the commandments? Here in Malachi the commandment he is referring to is the commandment to give glory to the name of Yahweh. True, the third commandment says we should not take the name of Yahweh in vain—but the command to give glory to His name is mentioned elsewhere in other Scriptures, for example here in Psalm:

“Give unto Yahweh, O ye mighty, give unto Yahweh glory and strength. Give unto Yahweh the glory due unto his name; worship Yahweh in the beauty of holiness” (Psalm 29:1-2)

Conclusion:

There are more commandments in Scripture than just the 10 commandments of Exodus 20. Malachi 3:5 makes it clear that it goes well beyond these 10 commandments. Notice what commandments they have violated and also notice that they do not all originate from the 10 commandments:

“And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and

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the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith Yahweh of hosts.” (Malachi 3:5)

All of these violations listed here are violations of commandments that are not included in the so-called 10 commandments of Exodus 20. And the Messiah was prophesied to come, bringing truth and judgment to the earth, including “his law”:

"He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law." (Isaiah 42:4)

Now we know from the context that this is talking about the work of the Messiah, but His work is continued now through His servants. Yet, he says "the isles shall wait for his law". What law? Is that really just the 10 commandments?

No, for Yahushua the Messiah made it clear in Matthew 5 that the law was not to be destroyed but fulfilled. But what law?

"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:17-20)

But what law? For years I had been taught and was teaching others that the 'law' was the 10 commandment law. But look closely at the context of that very text where the Messiah declares that the law is not destroyed. In verse 21 He says "thou shalt not kill . . ." so is that part of the 10 commandments? Why YES! Now look at verse 27, what part of the law does he refer to? "Thou shalt not commit adultery". Where is that? The 10 commandments! Great! Now look at verse 31. What does it say? ". . .let him give her a writing of divorcement". Is that in the 10 commandments? No, that is in the Torah or law of Moshe! Now look at verse 33, what does it say? "Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto Yawheh thine oaths". Where is that from? It is part of the Mosaic law, the Torah!! Now look at verse 38, what does it say? "Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say . . ." What is that from, the 10 commandments or the law of Moses? It is from the law of Moses.

Now, can we honestly stand before our congregation and declare that the law of the 10 commandments is the ONLY so called moral law we should observe? Just what are one of "these least commandments" the Messiah spoke of? We have conclusive evidence that when the Messiah gave the sermon on the mount he told

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the people that He did not come to destroy the law but to fulfill it! Then He describes that law and shows that He is not just referring to the 10 commandments but to the entire law of Moshe (Moses). So what will you do? If you are honest you will have to tell the people that the law of Moshe is still binding for the true followers of Messiah even today—not just the 10 commandments (although those are also included)!! If I am wrong please correct me and show me where the wrong is and I will correct it and admit to my error. But it seems the evidence here is beyond contesting.

"Hearken unto me, my people; and give ear unto me, O my nation: for a law shall proceed from me, and I will make my judgment to rest for a light of the people. My righteousness is near; my salvation is gone forth, and mine arms shall judge the people; the isles shall wait upon me, and on mine arm shall they trust." (Isaiah 51:4-5)

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CHAPTER THREE

What Are the Commandments?So, what about “the commandments” mentioned here in this prophecy of Revelation 12—just what are they? Could they be an exclusive reference to the 10 commandments?

First of all we need to make a clarification here in regards to the term itself--the "Ten Commandments". Friend, did you know that this expression is really not even to be found in Scripture! Today they are commonly known as the "Ten Commandments", however (according to the original texts which mention them, Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 4:13, and 10:4) this phrase should be translated as "the ten words" [Strong's Hebrew #6335 & #1697 (eser dabar)]. It can also be translated "ten matters, "ten statements" or even "ten declarations"but never as "ten commandments". Therefore, the title of "Decalogue" (deca = ten, logoi = words) or "Ten Declarations" would be more appropriate and more accurate. The phrase "ten commandments" is not found in Exodus 20 nor anywhere else in Scripture! It is never used in Scripture or even traditional writings of those times! It is only in some of the more modern translations, such as the King James Version. Now it has been suggested by some that these are not only not commandments, they are merely "10 suggestions". However, this would also not be in harmony with scripture. They are not "suggestions" since our very lives are dependent upon our observance of them. Nor are they all "commandments" for a commandment by definition is a direct request for positive action on the part of another person(s). While some of these ten statements include positive "commands" to act upon, many of them contain prohibitions or even just a simple statement of facts. "I am Almighty Yahweh" is neither a command nor a suggestionit is simply a statement! And yet it is indeed the first "word" (or "command") of those 10 declarations! Another statement found in Exodus 20 is "You shall not commit murder". That is the 6th declaration. But again, this is neither a command nor a suggestionit is a prohibition telling us what we should not do!

So, what are the commandments spoken of in Revelation? Well, let’s look at Scripture and see what the Word has to say on this point. The Messiah said, regarding the Torah (or Law): "Not one jot or tittle will pass from the law until heaven and earth pass away" (Matthew 5:18). Anyone who breaks one of these the least of the "commandments" (as He calls them) will be the least in the kingdom of heaven (that is, they will be dust and ashes under our feet according to Malachi 4:3!). According to Leviticus 26:15 the commandments do not refer primarily to the 10 declarations as given on mount Sinai (although those are also included) but refer specifically to ALL of the statutes, judgments and commandments given in the Torah (Law). The number of those “commands” is often given as 613. Look closely at what it says. Notice that in verse 15 it clearly identifies “commandments” with ALL of Yahweh’s “statutes”, “judgments”, and

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“commandments”—integral parts of His “covenant”.

“I am Almighty Yahweh, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go upright. But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.” (Leviticus 26:13-18)

According to this Scripture, obedience to our heavenly Father Yahweh is essential to our well-being. And the Messiah clearly endorsed the idea that we should keep (or obey) the commandments (all of them), as is seen in this text:

"And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, Yahweh: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Yahushua said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Yahushua said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. " (Matthew 19:16-21)

Now we should know that He is referring here to the Decalogue and that is only fitting since the Decalogue forms the foundation for the entire Jewish economy. But the Scripture is clear, the 10 declarations are not the only precepts which we are obligated to observe. So we need a much deeper understanding of the full meaning intended by the Scriptures when it says we must “keep the commandments”. In the next Scripture it will be readily seen that the “commandments” could not be limited only to the 10 commandments. Notice:

“Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which Almighty Yahweh of your fathers giveth you. Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you,

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neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of Yahweh your Mighty One which I command you.” (Deuteronomy 4:1-2)

In this text the “statutes” and “judgments” and all the words which he commands them constitutes “the commandments”! Clearly, as can be seen here, the commandments spoken of throughout the Scriptures go well beyond just the 10 commandments. And that word "Law" in Matthew 5, though believed by many to refer to the 10 commandment law, clearly refers to the first 5 books of the Hebrew Scriptures. It cannot be limited to the 10 commandments written in stone, for it is repeated throughout the entire Scriptures that this "Law" is part of the "Law and the Prophets" (or the "Torah and Neviim"). The word “Torah” is the same as what is translated "Law" and it really means “the teaching” even though it is also referred to as the “Law”, “Neviim” refers to the writings of the “Prophets”, also known as “the testimonies”—hence, "the Law and the Prophets”. The Torah is made up of the first 5 books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. These were the books written by Moses (Moshe) from the inspiration of our heavenly Father.

Again, for the sake of clarification let it be stated that we are not doing away with the need to obey the 10 declarations. These 10 declarations (or commandments) that were written in stone on Mt. Sinai form the very foundation upon which all the laws, statutes, judgments and commandments of scripture are based. The point we are making here is that the 10 commandments are NOT the only commandments given to us in Scripture. They merely form the foundation of all the other commandments of Scripture.

It Makes a Big Difference!

Now, with this new knowledge we have in regards to the true definitions of “law” and “commandments”, let’s look again at that prophecy in Revelation 12:17. Remember, we have not changed the text at all. All we have done is properly defined only one word in that prophecy. Because of this one correction we have no choice but to alter our basic understanding of what it is to be a “commandment keeper”. Notice:

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of the Almighty, and have the testimony of Yahushua Messiah.” (Revelation 12:17)

Have we taken out the 10 declarations and made them of none effect through this new understanding? No, we have not. The 10 declarations are still in effect and still must be observed by those who claim to be followers of the Messiah. Instead of eliminating the 10 declarations (commonly known as "10 commandments") we have, in effect, expanded the commandments to rightly include ALL

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commandments given by Yahweh in Scripture! All of the estimated 613 of them! Is that legalism? Is it wrong to obey the teachings of Scripture? And is it right to disobey the teachings of Scripture? The Messiah answered the devil when in the valley of temptation: “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Almighty.” (Matthew 4:4) Were these just clever words to throw the Devil off guard, or did he really mean it? He must have meant it or he would not have said it. So, if it is right to disobey truth from Scripture maybe we should start calling that “illegalism”, right? Do we reject the Torah (or "Law") of Yahweh? If we do, then we are "anti-nomos" (from the Greek) that is, "against the law"! Another way of saying that is "outlaw". Are you an "outlaw"? Are you an "illegalist"? I would rather be called a “legalist” than an “illegalist” and certainly wouldn't want to be called an "outlaw" (that is, "without law" or anti-nomos). Which do you want to be? And whose "law" do you want to follow?

Certainly we have asked some profound questions here, but now we are forced by this new knowledge to ask the most important question of all: Since the commandments go well beyond the 10 commandments of Exodus 20, can it truly be said that the Seventh-day Adventist Church is keeping ALL of the commandments of Scripture? Is there ANY denomination, church, sect or even large group of people on this planet that is truly keeping ALL of the commandments of Scripture? Are you yourself keeping all of the commands [of those that are applicable to you] totaling about 600 in number which come from the Torah?

We will graciously allow the reader time and space to answer these most pointed questions for themselves. My own personal perspective on this will be given at the end of this booklet.

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Chapter FourThe 10 Declarations

A Translation and Proper Divisions (Called the 10 "Words" or "Statements")Based Upon the Context of Scripture

Exodus Chapter 20:1-17Introduction

1 And the Almighty spoke all these words, saying,Showing Love For Yahweh Our Creator

1st Word 2 I am Almighty Yahweh, which have brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

2nd Word 3 You shall not have any other mighty ones before me. 4 You shall not make for yourself any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5 You shall not bow down yourself to them, nor serve them: for I, Almighty Yahweh, am a jealous Mighty One, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 6 And showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

3rd Word 7 You shall not take away the name of Yahweh your Mighty One with falsehood; for Yahweh will not hold him guiltless that takes his name with falsehood.

4th Word 8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor, and do all your work: 10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of Almighty Yahweh: in it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger that is within your gates: 11 For in six days Yahweh made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore Yahweh blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

Showing Love For Our Neighbor5th Word 12 Honor your father and your mother: that your days may be long

upon the land which Almighty Yahweh gives you.6th Word 13 You shall not commit murder.7th Word 14 You shall not commit adultery.8th Word 15 You shall not steal.9th Word 16 You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

10th Word 17 You shall not covet your neighbor's house, you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is your neighbor's.

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Chapter FiveWho is the Spirit of Prophecy?Many times in life we become distracted by something we feel is important. We drive down the road and notice something unusual and out of the ordinary. When we awake from our infatuation (if providence has shined on our path) we swerve our car back onto the road just in time to avoid a potentially serious collision. Could the same be said of our study of Scripture? Could it be said regarding our religious experiences? Could it be that we sometimes focus in on one or two points so much that we get hung up on a tangent that causes us to miss the truly important issues in life, religion, and in the study of Scripture?

“And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Yahushua: worship the Almighty: for the testimony of Yahushua is the spirit of prophecy.” (Revelation 19:10, King James Version)

Revelation 19:10 says that “the testimony of Yahushua is the spirit of prophecy”. As someone with an Adventist background it is easy for me to think and say, “Yes, this must be the gift of prophecy through Ellen White”. Since Adventists believe Ellen White had that same gift of prophecy then Ellen White would then (by this view) be that Spirit of Prophecy. Notice, sometimes people capitalize that phrase when in the text itself there are no capitals. That could very well be our own personal interpretation, and such added emphasis might be out of order.

How to Recognize a True Prophet

One major test of a true prophet is that their prophecies will come to pass.

“The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that Yahweh hath truly sent him.” (Jeremiah 28:9)

But let us not forget that while there are true prophets, there are also false prophets. Just because someone claims to be a true prophet does not make it so, even if they make predictions which appear to come to pass. Notice what the Scripture says about this:

“If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other mighty ones, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for Yahweh your Mighty One proveth you, to

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know whether ye love Yahweh your Mighty One with all your heart and with all your soul. Ye shall walk after Yahweh your Mighty One, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him. And that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams, shall be put to death; because he hath spoken to turn you away from Yahweh your Mighty One.” (Deuteronomy 13:1-5)

Even if a prophets words come to pass, if he or she calls upon the people to worship other gods or Mighty Ones, then that prophet is not to be tolerated. According to Scripture, that prophet is to be put to death.

“To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isaiah 8:20)

What is the “law” and the “testimony”? The “law” we have already spoken of earlier—the “law” is the “Torah” or the first 5 books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy, Numbers). The “testimony” is the testimony of the prophets as given by the 5 major prophets and 12 minor prophets. Yes, friends, I do indeed believe in “the testimonies”-that is the testimonies of the prophets. The total number of books comes to 24 not counting the 2 extra books you get when you divide Chronicles and Samuel into 2 each. Originally, the Hebrew Scriptures were composed of 24 books and were called by the Messiah the “Law and the Prophets”. That is what is referred to here and if the prophet speaks a word which contradicts these writings then it is evidence that there is “no light in them”. That is the true meaning of this statement.

“Yahweh thy Mighty One will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; According to all that thou desiredst of Yahweh thy Mighty One in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, Let me not hear again the voice of Yahweh my Mighty One, neither let me see this great fire any more, that I die not. And Yahweh said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.” (Deuteronomy 18:15-19)

The term “the spirit of prophecy” can also be translated “the spirit that leads one to prophesy” or “the spirit of the messenger” which corresponds with the true meaning of “prophet”. A prophet is a messenger. Therefore, we can agree that this is speaking of the “gift” of prophecy. Notice what the Messianic writings say about the gift of prophecy:

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“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Messiah: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of the Almighty, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Messiah…” (Ephesians 4:11-13)

The work of the prophet is a gift within the church (more properly translated “assembly”—ekklesia) used for “edifying the body”. But it is not the only gift, nor is that gift limited to only one person. Notice, the text says “prophets” not “a prophet” and certainly not “the prophet”.

Does Ellen White Pass the Test?

Did Ellen White have that gift? Well, that is for each to decide based upon their own personal study of Scripture. But whatever the case we know this much—even if you really consider her to be a prophet, you cannot limit the assembly to having only one prophet. Scripture is very clear on this point—there will be many prophets in the last days, both true prophets and false prophets. Notice the evidence in support of this from Scripture:

“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophecy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. . . .And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be delivered. . .” (Joel 2:28-29, 32)

Now notice that right in the very context of dreams and visions it says that whoever calls on the name of Yahweh will be delivered. If this is correct, then a true prophet will also call upon the name of Yahweh (the true name, not the counterfeit name). Notice:

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other mighty ones, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which Yahweh hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of Yahweh, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which Yahweh hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.” (Deuteronomy 18:19-22)

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We read part of this earlier, but now it is important to finish reading the whole context. Notice that it mentions several times that a true prophet will be one who will “speak in my name”. But a prophet that will “presume to speak a word in my name” (but actually speaks their own thoughts) will die. And, in addition to that if that prophet shall speak “in the name of other mighty ones” (or gods) then “that prophet shall die”. Did Ellen White speak in the name of Yahweh or in the name of other Mighty Ones?

All of this information we have listed so far is very important, for at the very heart of the issue we are studying here in this presentation is the question regarding “the Spirit of Prophecy”. First, I believe wholeheartedly in the Spirit of prophecy. And that “Spirit”, friends, is none other than the “Holy Spirit” which Yahweh used to inspire the prophets of old. The big question is—does Ellen White have the Spirit of prophecy? Well, let’s examine the evidence. Here is what some Adventists have said about this:

1. “Ellen White had both dreams and visions.” Does that prove one is a prophet? No, for the Pharoah of Egypt, the king of Babylon and the king of Persia all had dreams. And Scripture attests that their dreams were not only prophetic in nature but were sent by Yahweh. Yet, they were still heathen kings and certainly not prophets. Dreams were sent to them in order to spare the life of faithful sons of Abraham. Could it be that Ellen White is inspired in the same way that these heathen kings were inspired, in order that the faithful sons of Abraham would be spared? It is certainly a point to be considered.

2. “Ellen White was a prolific writer who was way ahead of her time

and whose writings inspired millions to study Scripture and learn what is truth.” Does that make her a prophet? Even if she was way ahead of her time and shows signs of being gifted or inspired, does that make her a prophet? Surely out of the 69 books and thousands of articles written by her we should be able to find evidence either for or against her writings as from a true prophet.

3. “The writings of Ellen White do not conflict with Scripture”. Does

that mean her writings are error free? Friends, these are assumptions which must be proven one way or the other. However, we will present evidence later to show that her writings do indeed conflict with Scripture. They are not free of error, including major errors regarding Bible doctrine.

4. “She said she was a ‘lesser light leading men and women to the

greater light of Scripture’” In Genesis 1:16 this idea of “lesser” and “greater light” are introduced for the first time. The “lesser light” refers to the moon and the “greater light” refers to the sun. Now, can I ask a

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question here? It seems to me that if she is the lesser light (like the moon) and the Scriptures are the greater light (as in the sun), then she and her writings are merely a dim reflection of the light coming from Scripture. Would that be a true assessment? What will you do on those days that both the sun and the moon are visible? Will you run around telling everyone that they must use only the light of the moon and ignore the light of the sun? If she is indeed a “lesser light” than Scripture, then she is not a prophet—for the writings of a true prophet would at least be equal to Scripture. Friends, we are no longer “children of the night” to need a “lesser light”—we are children of the day.

5. She never claimed to be a prophet. However, she did claim to be a “messenger”. Why then make her into something she never really claimed to be?

6. She never claimed to be infallible. “God only is infallible”, she says. Now this is good, and surely we can see that even a true prophet would never claim to be infallible. We know of one example in Scripture where a true prophet (Nathan) told David that he was going to build the house of Yahweh. Then Yahweh had to correct Nathan on his presumption and return to David to tell him that he was wrong, it will be David’s son who will build the temple. Yes, even a true prophet make mistakes and is not infallible. But here is my point and valid criticism—why do Adventists try to make an issue out of this by claiming Ellen White never erred in her understanding of Scripture? We WILL present evidence to the contrary.

7. Ellen White wrote of things that go beyond the scope of Scripture and well beyond her time. Now that does not prove she is a false prophet, for a true prophet would be expected to know many things that are not recorded in Scripture. Inspired? Undoubtedly! But a prophet? You can’t prove it!! Joseph Smith was also “inspired” in some respects and could speak of things which you and I would not know about—but that is not proof for him being a prophet anymore than it is proof Ellen White is a prophet.

Now we can spend a lengthy amount of time going over each of those points and presenting evidence after evidence that shows she made both Scriptural and historical errors in her writings. And we will cover some of that ground in the next chapter. However, we are going to “hit the nail on the head” here and focus in one just one key point which should settle the matter decisively.

Did Ellen White Call Upon the Names of Other Gods?

Ellen White, like so many people even today, did not know about the issue

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regarding the true names of our heavenly Father Yahweh and His Son Yahushua. She only knew them as “Jehovah” and “Jesus”, “Christ”, “LORD” and “God”. Yet, today we know better. And the scholars also know better and in the day of judgment they will receive many times the number of stripes which the “layman” will receive. Ellen did not know (as many of those reading this now probably do not know) that Jehovah is an evil composite name which means “ruin” (from Hebrew, hovah, meaning “ruin”) and has nothing to do with the true name of our heavenly Father. The term “the LORD” is also not the true name but it is used as a substitute for the true name. It is merely a title, not a name. And Jesus is also a composite name derived from Greek which means “My God is Zeus” or possibly “Son of Zeus”. Whatever the case, again the scholars all know that his true name is much closer to Yahushua (or Yahshua)—certainly not Jesus. Now I am not going to go into any more detail than this, since I have already written an entire book on that subject called “None Other Name”. That book goes over a tremendous amount of evidence showing conclusively that these and many other names given in our modern translations of Scripture are of pagan origin, in fact are calling upon the name of other mighty ones (or gods). Once you have studied it out, you will have to decide for yourself whether it is true or not. Now for the clincher:

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other mighty ones, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which Yahweh hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of Yahweh, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which Yahweh hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptiously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.” (Deuteronomy 18:19-22)

Here is the dilemma: Ellen White, even if speaking out of ignorance of the true names, should have known better if she was a true prophet. Yet she uses all of these false pagan names just like most of us were taught all of our lives. Now if she wasn’t really a prophet and we take her at her word that she is not a prophet, then maybe she can avoid falling into the trap of being a “presumptuous” or “false prophet”. But if she really is a prophet then she would have to be a false prophet since this Scripture makes it very clear that a prophet who comes in the name of other deities is a false prophet and should die!! So, there it is. Case closed. Ellen White is either an inspired writer whose works are certainly not infallible, or she is a false prophet whose works are of the Devil. The choice, dear reader, is yours. It is up to you to decide.

Could she be a true prophet? Not really. A true prophet would call upon the true names of Yahweh and Yahushua (or something very close to these), not the

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pagan substitute names. The Scriptures have spoken. Did she have dreams and visions from Yahweh? That is certainly a possibility not to be ruled out, and we know from Scripture that several heathen kings received dreams and visions. That does not make them a prophet. But again, Ellen White could not be a prophet in the Biblical sense of the word. And if she claims she is a prophet then she would have to be a false prophet, for she repeatedly calls upon the counterfeit names of our heavenly Father and His Son. A true prophet will not “speak in the name of other mighty ones”.

One final note: the gifts of the spirit were given to the whole assembly (or church), not just a few here and there. If an assembly states that a certain person is to be the only prophetic spokesman or spokeswoman for that group, then they are not following the true “Spirit of prophecy”—they are rejecting the “Spirit of prophecy”. Institutionalized prophets may give the appearance of inspiration and unity within a congregation, but in the end they become a bottleneck that causes stagnation and blocks the true “Spirit” of prophecy from manifesting itself among the congregation. Nor are we to "despise prophesying" as they do in some congregations. Both of these extremes are wrong. But in the end, the officially endorsed prophet proves by their dogmatic actions and attitudes that they truly are not “filled with the Spirit” nor do they have the true gifts of the Spirit within them. Religious dogmas which state that one must believe in "the Spirit of Prophecy" through someone such as Ellen White are most often brought about through a need to bring added support for beliefs which have no basis in Scripture. Yet, that same church would cry "foul" if someone would even suggest that everyone must accept without question that "Tom ____" has the gift of tongues, or "John _____" has the gift of healing (or else they cannot be a member of the congregation). As the Scripture says: ". . . thou shalt not be afraid of him.” (Deuteronomy 18:22)

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Chapter SixAre There Contradictions in the Testimonies?Does Ellen White contradict the Scriptures? Many would like to know if there really are contradictions to the Scriptures in the testimonies of Ellen White. There are many websites that have been put up which appear to show that she many times contradicted Scripture. But let us also consider that the author of these websites have their own agendas, biases and belief systems which they follow. Some are supported by Catholic and/or other Protestant groups. Biases because of their belief system could very well influence their response to Ellen White's views and some of the points that they make are clearly not valid because they either do not consider all the facts, take sentences out of context or have simply been based upon their own faulty understanding of Scripture. [Example: Ellen White condemns the use of unclean meats, Scripture also condemns this use—but some of the criticism against her is because she also condemns unclean meats.] However, even making allowances for this there are still literally dozens of such contradictions between her writings and the truths of Scripture. Remember, it only takes one valid contradiction to invalidate her as an inspired prophet. Here we will list many of the most notable and most easily proven contradictions between her writings and Scripture.

The Shut Door

Ellen White Statement:

"Gorham, Maine, July 13, 1847"

"Dear Brother Bates:

"As James is at work and sisters are from home thought I would employ myself in writing a line to you.. . . . Brother Bates, you write in a letter to James something about the Bridegroom's coming, as stated in the first published visions. By the letter you would like to know whether I had light on the Bridegroom's coming before I saw it in vision. I can readily answer, No. The Lord showed me the travail of the Advent band and midnight cry in December, but He did not show me the Bridegroom's coming until February following. . . . Very early next morning J. T. called, said he was in haste going out of the city in a short time, and wanted I should tell him all that God had shown me in vision. It was with fear and trembling I told him all. After I had got through he said he had told out the same last evening. I was rejoiced, for I expected he was coming out against me, for all the while I had not heard any one say what he believed. He said the Lord had sent him to hear me talk the evening before, but as I would not, he meant his children should have the light in

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some way, so he took him. There were but few out when he talked, so the next meeting I told my vision, and the band, believing my visions from God, received what God bade me to deliver to them. The view about the Bridegroom's coming I had about the middle of February, 1845. While in Exeter, Maine in meeting with Israel Dammon, James, and many others, many of them did not believe in a shut door. I suffered much at the commencement of the meeting. Unbelief seemed to be on every hand. There was one sister there that was called very spiritual. She had traveled and been a powerful preacher the most of the time for twenty years. She had been truly a mother in Israel. But a division had risen in the band on the shut door. She had great sympathy, and could not believe the door was shut. (I had known nothing of their differences.) Sister Durben got up to talk. I felt very, very sad. At length my soul seemed to be in an agony, and while she was talking I fell from my chair to the floor. It was then I had a view of Jesus rising from His mediatorial throne and going to the holiest as Bridegroom to receive His kingdom. They were all deeply interested in the view. They all said it was entirely new to them. The Lord worked in mighty power setting the truth home to their hearts. Sister Durben knew what the power of the Lord was, for she had felt it many times; and a short time after I fell she was struck down, and fell to the floor, crying to God to have mercy on her. When I came out of vision, my ears were saluted with Sister Durben's singing and shouting with a loud voice. Most of them received the vision, and were settled upon the shut door. Previous to this I had no light on the coming of the Bridegroom, but had expected him to this earth to deliver His people on the tenth day of the seventh month. I did not hear a lecture or a word in any way relating to the Bridegroom's going to the holiest. . . . I know the light I received came from God, it was not taught me by man." (Letter B-3, 1847, Letter to Joseph Bates, July 13, 1847, Manuscript Release #281-4, Ellen G. White Estate) [To see the full text of this letter, please go to the Appendix in the back of this booklet.]

"I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, relating to the shut door, could not be separated.... I saw that the mysterious signs and wonders and false reformations would increase and spread. The reformations that were shown me were not reformations from error to truth, but from bad to worse, for those who professed a change of heart had only wrapped about them a religious garb, which covered up the iniquity of a wicked heart. Some appeared to have been really converted, so as to deceive God's people, but if their hearts could be seen they would appear as black as ever. My accompanying angel bade me look for the travail of soul for sinners as used to be. I looked, but could not

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see it, for the time for their salvation is past.” (Present Truth, pp. 21-22, August, 1849)

It is very clear from these statements that Ellen White claims to have had a vision showing that the door of probation was closed in 1844. But now notice these later statements from her which is in direct contradiction to the 1847 Bates letter:

"For a time after the disappointment in 1844, I did hold, in common with the advent body, that the door of mercy was then forever closed to the world. This position was taken before my first vision was given me. It was the light given me of God that corrected our error, and enabled us to see the true position" (Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 63)

"With my brethren and sisters, after the time passed in forty-four I did believe no more sinners would be converted. But I never had a vision that no more sinners would be converted. And am clear and free to state no one has ever heard me say or has read from my pen statements which will justify them in the charges they have made against me upon this point" (Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 74)

Contradictions:

We can read these statements and only wonder! How can these things be? How can someone claim in one statement one thing and then in another something totally contradictory? We can be sympathetic and say she made a mistake, but why cover up a mistake with blatant lies?

Here are some basic conclusions that we must come to in regards to Ellen White's belief on the "shut door". Ellen White was not only wrong in her beliefs regarding the shut door doctrine, not only was she believing and teaching false doctrine—but she appears to have made contradictory statements in regard to what she did or did not originally say. First she says “most of them received the vision, and were settled upon the shut door” and in another statement says “I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, relating to the shut door, could not be separated”. When she says they “received the vision” and “I was shown…” it is clear that she is claiming that her views relating to the shut door came from a direct vision, not just her faulty understanding or the false beliefs of the other Advent believers. And she ties it all in with belief "in the commandments of God" and the "testimony of Jesus Christ" which shows that it was a major testing truth (a fundamental doctrine, not just a commonly held belief) which was expected of all believers. Yet, she denies all of this in the last quote given. At best her memory is extremely faulty, yet she clearly taught a false doctrine based upon a vision. At worst she has been deceived and could have even falsified her own statements at a later time. Whatever the case, this is the first of a whole

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series of false and contradictory teachings coming from the pen of Ellen White. If she did have a vision and that vision taught a false doctrine (which she later admits the “shut door” was) then that vision could not possibly have come from our heavenly Father Yahweh.

Is Polygamy a Sin?


“A multitude at first apparently received the warning of Noah, yet they did not fully turn to God with true repentance. There was some time given them before the flood was to come, in which they were placed upon probation—to be proved and tried. They failed to endure the trial. The prevailing degeneracy overcame them, and they finally joined others who were corrupt, in deriding and scoffing at faithful Noah. They would not leave off their sins, but continued in polygamy, and in the indulgence of their base passions.” (The Signs of the Times, February 27, 1879, paragraph 19, Article Title: The Great Controversy: The Flood)

“The violation of the seventh commandment also was early practiced in the name of religion. The most licentious and abominable rites were made a part of the heathen worship. The gods themselves were represented as impure, and their worshipers gave the rein to the baser passions. Unnatural vices prevailed and the religious festivals were characterized by universal and open impurity.

Polygamy was practiced at an early date. It was one of the sins that brought the wrath of God upon the antediluvian world. Yet after the Flood it again became widespread. It was Satan's studied effort to pervert the marriage institution, to weaken its obligations and lessen its sacredness; for in no surer way could he deface the image of God in man and open the door to misery and vice.

From the opening of the great controversy it has been Satan's purpose to misrepresent God's character and to excite rebellion against His law, and this work appears to be crowned with success. The multitudes give ear to Satan's deceptions and set themselves against God. But amid the working of evil, God's purposes move steadily forward to their accomplishment; to all created intelligences He is making manifest His justice and benevolence. Through Satan's temptations the whole human race have become transgressors of God's law, but by the sacrifice of His Son a way is opened whereby they may return to God. Through the grace of Christ they may be enabled to render obedience to the Father's

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law. Thus in every age, from the midst of apostasy and rebellion, God gathers out a people that are true to Him--a people "in whose heart is His law." Isaiah 51:7.

It was by deception that Satan seduced angels; thus he has in all ages carried forward his work among men, and he will continue this policy to the last. Should he openly profess to be warring against God and His law, men would beware; but he disguises himself, and mixes truth with error. The most dangerous falsehoods are those that are mingled with truth. It is thus that errors are received that captivate and ruin the soul. By this means Satan carries the world with him. But a day is coming when his triumph will be forever ended.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, page 337-338, paragraph 4, Chapter Title: Satan's Enmity Against the Law, emphasis mine)

Contradictions:

Here she defines polygamy as one of the primary sins which caused Yahweh to bring about the flood. And it is also here that she plainly declares that polygamy was in violation of the law of Yahweh and more specifically she strongly implies that it was the 7th commandment which polygamy violated. However, such is not the case. Remember, we have already studied this subject of the “law” exhaustively and have found that the “law” is NOT (as Ellen White and many other sincere people believe) the 10 commandments, but is instead the entire Torah or first 5 books of Scripture! In the Torah (or “law”) and the Neviim (“prophets”) there are several places in which the practice of polygamy is either permitted or (in one case) even commanded in certain circumstances (Exodus 21:10-11, Deuteronomy 21:15, Deuteronomy 22:28-29, Deuteronomy 25:5-10, II Samuel 12:1-9). Therefore, since the Torah (or Law) actually gives legislation regulating the practice of polygamy—it could not possibly be in violation of that same law which regulates its practice! If polygamy was one of the sins that caused the destruction of the world by a flood in Noah's day, why was Abraham, Jacob, Moses, David, Hosea and many other Patriarchs blessed for living that same life? It would seem if this were true that our heavenly Father would have to apologize to the anti-diluvians for allowing Abraham to live that way and yet destroy their world for essentially the same reason. It is a total contradiction of the plainest teachings of Scripture!

I am surprised and it is very ironic that in this very quote she also has this to say regarding Satan’s work: “but he disguises himself, and mixes truth with error. The most dangerous falsehoods are those that are mingled with truth.” Interesting that she should make this point here—for in that very quote she gives an erroneous interpretation of Scripture! Yes, I agree, truth mixed with error is the most dangerous falsehood.Conclusion: Ellen White was in error in regard to polygamy being a sin, even one of the sins that brought about the flood. Yahweh is not partial and does not

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change. If he destroyed the world for this practice but blessed the Patriarchs for that same practice this would show inconsistency on His part. Yet, as the Scriptures plainly declare: “For I am Yahweh, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” (Malachi 3:6)

Was David’s Polygamy Condemned by the Gospel?


“David afterward married Abigail. This was not according to the original plan of God; it was in direct opposition to his design, that a man should have more than one wife. David was already the husband of Ahinoam. The gospel condemns the practice of polygamy. The custom of the nations of David's time had perverted his judgment and influenced his actions. Great men have erred greatly in following the practices of the world. The study of everyone should be to know what is the will of God and what saith the word of the Lord. The bitter result of this practice of marrying many wives was permitted to be sorely felt throughout all the life of David.” (The Signs of the Times, October 26, 1888, paragraph 15 Article Title: The Work of a Peace-Maker)

Contradictions:

David was blessed by Yahweh even with his practice of polygamy! But more than that, the Scriptures do not leave this question open for discussion. It plainly declares that David did that which was “right in my sight, to keep. . .my commandments”. Notice the quote from Scripture:

"And it shall be, if thou wilt hearken unto all that I command thee, and wilt walk in my ways, and do that is right in my sight, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as David my servant did; that I will be with thee, and build thee a sure house, as I built for David, and will give Israel unto thee." (1 Kings 11:38)

"And he [king Jeroboam] walked in all the sins of his father [Solomon], which he had done before him: and his heart was not perfect with Yahweh his Mighty One, as the heart of David his father. Nevertheless for David's sake did Yahweh his Mighty One give him a lamp in Jerusalem, to set up his son after him, and to establish Jerusalem: Because David did that which was right in the eyes of Yahweh, and turned not aside from any thing that he commanded him all the days of his life, save only in the matter of Uriah the Hittite." (1 Kings 15:3-5)

Conclusion:

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Ellen White has falsely accused David of practicing the “error” of Polygamy when Scripture plainly says that he was a “man after Yahweh’s own heart”, that he walked “in my ways”, did that which is “right in my sight, to keep my statutes and my commandments”. True, David sinned in the matter of Uriah the Hittite—but Scripture declares that this (adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah) was his only fall into open sin. She was also wrong in stating that the gospel “condemns the practice of polygamy”, since there is no such statement to be found in all of Scripture!

Did the Flood Destroy Everything in the Earth?


“God by his miraculous power preserved a few of the different kinds of trees and shrubs.” (1 SG, p. 77)

According to Ellen White, Yahweh preserved a few select trees and shrubs in the flood. Now notice the contradiction:

Contradiction:

“And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die.” (Genesis 6:17)

We could have had a way out of our dilemma if the text had stopped at describing the creatures which have “the breath of life”. However, the last part of that text makes it clear that “every thing” that was in the earth would die because of the flood. Yet Ellen White says Yahweh preserved some choice trees and bushes. Well, it appears that this is also a contradiction between her and Scripture. If she is really not an infallible prophet then we can understand her error. Yet, at the very least this is further evidence that shows she is not a true prophet.

The Free Gift of Healing


“Prayer for the sick: We should first find out if the sick one has been withholding tithes or has made trouble in the church.” (UT quoted in HL, p. 237)

Scripture Statement:

“When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick.” (Matthew 8:16)

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Contradiction:

Here we have a blatant contradiction of Scripture. Also, it is clear that Mrs. White had a faulty concept of the nature of Yahweh. Our heavenly Father is not our “Godfather”—watching us every moment to see if we have done wrong. And if we followed her standard of right and wrong in this regard, would we withhold our prayers of healing from the Messiah and His disciples? Remember, the disciples and even the Messiah Himself was also accused of making “trouble in the church”!!

Can We Eat Cheese?


“Cheese is wholly unfit for food.” (Counsels on Diets and Foods, p. 368)


“And Jesse said unto David his son, Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and run to the camp to thy brethren; And carry these ten cheeses unto the captain of their thousand, and look how thy brethren fare, and take their pledge.” (1 Samuel 17:17-18)

Contradiction:

We realize that sometimes in the preparation of food those who do that work follow procedures which are unsanitary and in many cases unclean or “not Kosher”. So, if Mrs. White had said “sometimes” or even “often” cheese is unfit for food, then she would have a way out in this matter. But she made the declarative statement “Cheese is wholly unfit for food”. That is an absolute statement which leaves no room for further changes. And it is in direct contradiction to Scripture.

Forbidding Marriages


"In this age of the world, as the scenes of earth's history are soon to close and we are about to enter upon the time of trouble such as never was, the fewer the marriages contracted, the better for all, both men and women." (5 Testimonies, p. 366, 1885)

"The time has come when, in one sense, they that have wives be as though they had none." (Ellen G. White, MS 34, The White Estate, 1885. Quoted in "Are Seventh-Day Adventists False

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Prophets?" p.29 by Wallace D. Slattery)


“And the Almighty blessed them, and the Almighty said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:28)

Contradiction:

It is interesting that the very first commandment given to man in Scripture is to procreate. And yet, Mrs. White would make us believe that marriages should be suspended due to the impending crisis. Admittedly, in times of trouble it may not be the right time to contract marriage. However, we are not allways in a continual state of trouble, at least not all of the time. Yet she does not qualify this in any way. She simply tells us it would be better not to marry in these last days.

Now notice the prophecy regarding the end times:

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocracy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which the Almighty hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of the Almighty is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.” (1 Timothy 4:1-4)

The Scripture is clear—those that speak against eating meat and those that forbid marriages are teaching “doctrines of devils”. And celibacy was never a formal part of Jewish teachings or practice. A Jewish man who did not marry by the age of 30 or 40 was considered an oddity and strange fellow. Yet among the pagans this practice was given first billing. It was part of pagan teaching that suggested it was better for men and women to remain unmarried and celibate. That false teaching eventually became enshrined within the Christian church, saying priests must remain celibate. That is why Scripture declares this to be a “doctrine of devils”.

Final Conclusion

Here we have listed 7 points which show conclusively that Ellen White blatantly contradicted Scripture. We could have listed many more, but chose to list only the notable ones. Adventists publicly state that Ellen White is not an addition to Scripture, yet should be treated by the members of the “remnant church” as

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inspired counsel—like “the messages of the prophets of old”. From my own experience and knowledge as an Adventist, you cannot long remain a member in good standing in the SDA church if you disagree with or in any way challenge the messages or authority of Ellen White. Therefore, there is no freedom of thought or expression within Adventism. They have become “Ellen White worshipers”.

And if we place any other human on a pedestal so that they are exalted above others, we are in danger of doing the same thing as Adventists have done. We are in danger of violating the second declaration of Exodus 20, which involves idol worship"Thou shalt have no other Mighty Ones before me. . ." (Exodus 20:3-5)

"The writings of Mrs. E. G. White were never designed to be an addition to the canon of Scripture. They are, never-the less, the messages of God to the remnant church. and should be received as such as were the messages of the prophets of old. As Samuel was a prophet to Israel in his day, as Jeremiah was a prophet to Israel in the days of the captivity, as John the Baptist came as a special messenger of the Lord to prepare the way for Christ's appearing, so we believe that Mrs. White was a prophet to the Church of Christ to-day. And the same as the messages of the prophets were received in olden times, so her messages should be received at the present time" (Review and Herald, October 4, 1928).

Amazingly, the SDA church has so much light and truth to share with the world. But, sadly it is truth mixed with error—which Ellen White herself has said is a most dangerous combination. It leads people to have self-confidence in their own church and doctrines, thinking that this will somehow save them for the kingdom. “We have the truth!” is a common rallying cry among Adventists (and other denominations also), and when that kind of attitude is displayed it is proof positive that they really don’t have the truth. They have truth mixed with error. And I say this in all sincerity, for I believe some SDA’s will be saved in the end—but not without a struggle to “overcome” (not just “overcome sin” but overcome the many false teachings which they have built up for themselves).

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Chapter SevenWho is the Remnant?Adventists say they are the “remnant church”. Is that possible? Well let’s examine this closely.

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of the Almighty, and have the testimony of Yahushua Messiah.” (Revelation 12:17, King James Version)

Have you made the observation that I have also made in regard to this “remnant church” idea? The prophecy does not even say “remnant church” here, does it? It says “remnant of her seed”. If this remnant is not a church, then what is it? Well, lets look at the concept of “remnant” as it is presented in Scripture.

“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophecy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. . . .And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as Yahweh hath said, and in the remnant whom Yahweh shall call.” (Joel 2:28-29, 32)

According to this text, there will be a “remnant” that will be delivered—those whom Yahweh has called. And those who will be delivered will be those who “call on the name of Yahweh”.

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon Yahweh, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the Almighty. For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness. For Almighty Yahweh of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.” (Isaiah 10:20-23)

According to this text the “remnant” will only be revealed in the day of destruction or “consumption”. They do not exist as a group now for they are the ones that come out of what is left of Israel. Those who wholesale reject the idea that Yahweh still considers the children of Israel his people, should read this passage

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again. Now, that is not to say just because someone claims to be a part of Israel that they automatically become Yahweh's chosen. The Scripture is very clear that it will only be a remnant, not a large group. And they will come forth out of Israel. Just exactly who Israel is we cannot be totally certain, but Yahweh knows.

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that Yahweh shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea. And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth. The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not vex Ephraim. But they shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west; they shall spoil them of the east together: they shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab: and the children of Ammon shall obey them. And Yahweh shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dryshod. And there shall be a highway for the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt.” (Isaiah 11:11-16)

Is this speaking of some church or denomination, or is it speaking of those who are left over after a great tragedy? It says they will be assembled together “like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt”. Can this be said of any church or denomination existing today? No, so this assembly is a last day assembly that will come together just prior to the Second Advent of the Messiah. “The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not vex Ephraim.” Is there any church today that can boast that they have no “envy” or "jealousy" within their midst? Yet this is how the remnant will be in life and character. Is it not true that the spirit of "jealousy" is one which tries to "dominate" and have "dominion" over others? Isn't "jealousy" and "envy" one of the hallmarks of SDA belief, for anyone who disagrees with Ellen White or the leaders of that church will be branded a "heretic" and "troublemaker". Yet, that is the very spirit which the remnant WILL NOT HAVE!

How to Recognize the Remnant

Could it be that this remnant is just what it seems to be—the last remaining “remnant” of the true and faithful from Israel? Remember, only Noah and his family (total of 8 people) were saved at the time of the flood. That remnant was only 8 people. Revelation speaks of the 144,000 and identifies them as the true

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last day “remnant”. Is the number 144,000 literal or symbolic? Well, that is not the subject of this article. The main point is that we should desire to be a part of it. It says that this remnant 144,000 will be gathered from the 4 corners of the earth. This is the gathering that Scripture speaks of, and it will not be something instituted by man. It will be by divine intervention.

“And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living Almighty, and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our Mighty One in their foreheads. And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed a hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.” (Revelation 7:1-4)

“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Zion, and with him a hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps; And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto the Almighty and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of the Almighty.” (Revelation 14:1-5)

We know that this special group (the 144,000) is indeed the same group called the “remnant” in Revelation 12:17. How do we know this? We know this because both this group of 144,000 and the group called the “remnant” (out of Israel) in the Hebrew Scriptures are gathered to assemble at mount Zion.

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahweh shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as Yahweh hath said, and in the remnant whom Yahweh shall call.” (Joel 2:32)

It says of them “they were not defiled with women”. Now the Scripture would contradict itself if it taught celibacy, so it is clear this is symbolic. Since a woman represents a congregation, then it is obvious that this 144,000 remnant will not be

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defiled with the churches. They will be separated and called out of and away from the nominal churches or denominations. The reasons for this is that they are so few in number and also because all the churches have by that time so fully partaken of the evil cup of “abominations” that they have no choice but to flee for the salvation of their own souls. Yahweh is calling us to “come out of Babylon” NOT to come into another corrupt organization. Not that there is anything wrong with organizing, just that we should not allow any organization to become our “golden calf” idol. And they will not only be considered the "spiritual seed" of Israel, but the literal seed as well.

Friend, whatever your religious beliefs or whatever your church—have you allowed your church to become an idol to you? Have you partaken of that same deception which says “We are the true church!” SDA’s are not the only ones to have fallen into that deception. Most every other church has also in some way partaken of that “forbidden fruit”. Yahweh is calling you and me to a much higher experience. He wants us to be free from the false teachings and errors of Babylon. And watch out, Satan even has a counterfeit “remnant”—do you know who and or what that is? Hopefully, by now, you know the counterfeit(s). My prayer for you is to now focus on finding and becoming part of the true remnant soon, before the end comes.

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Chapter EightThe Dream InterpretedI was a Seventh-day Adventist for over 20 years. I remained one for over 10 years even after this dream. Now here is the interpretation of my dream:

When I went back in time it was for the purpose of finding my historic “roots”. I was searching for answers to the emptiness within my own life. Because I identified with Mrs. White, my desire was to seek her in the hopes of finding that which was missing in my life. Her home was open to everyone and people were coming and going because they also were searching for answers to their questions—some had found their answers and others had not.

When I went in to see her she was alone in the garden. My approaching her with the kiss to the hand symbolized that I had become or was in danger of becoming an “Ellen White worshiper” as one friend of mine recently called her. Yahweh has called us away from the worship of mere mortal men and/or women. He desires that we should worship Him only through prayer and the study of His word.

When I told her that I was from the future she was shocked and concerned—not for herself primarily but for me. She realized that I did not belong there. She knew that the scope of my work would not fit into her time or place. I really did not belong there. My message would have no part within her society, but she also realized that my message was important—but not for her time. If she had thought my message was not needed at all she would have simply told me to “go away”, but she was concerned for me and simply told me that I needed to “go back” because I did not belong there.

My search for orthodoxy took me back in time to see the one person I thought would be most capable of helping me sort out the difficulties in my own life. I found out that this was not true. Ellen White had indeed a special work, but not in the sense of an inspired prophet. I believe her work was to reestablish some of the truths of Scripture, but not all. Like little children who were living in darkness, they needed the “weakest of the weak” to guide them through the night. Did she really receive visions from Yahweh? We may never

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know. But even if she did, it does not make her a prophet nor does it make her infallible. We already know of some of her errors, some of them of the most serious nature. As the “lesser light” she should be the one to lead men and women to the “greater light” of Yahweh’s Word. If people had (according to her own words) “made the study of Scriptures” their lifework, there would have been no need for her testimonies. In many ways, that is what she did—led people to study Scripture. And though she brought unity to the work, it also led to stagnation since her views and testimonies were practically the only ones allowed. I wonder if her husband James realized that this was true before his untimely death? We know from historical statements that he himself had his doubts and often criticized “the gifts” (as they called it). Her work was for her time. Ahead of her time? Obviously. Inspired? Yes, profoundly so. But not like the inspiration of the great prophets of Scripture. She is not infallible, as our brief study has already clearly shown. Our work is for now, so we don’t need to use Ellen White as our crutch anymore. We are no longer “children of the night” but children of the day. The greater light of Scripture has now come to us, risen to its place so that we might behold the glory of Yahweh and of His only Son. Day has dawned, and the shadows are fast fleeing away.

Beyond Adventism

It is time for us to stop worshipping a woman who has been dead now for almost 80 years. She was a great leader within a great movement—but that movement has now become stagnant and is no longer relevant to today’s situation. It is time to search the Scriptures for ourselves without living in fear that somehow we might think a thought or believe a belief that Ellen White did not believe or think, or that she might disapprove of. It is time for us to “arise and shine, for our light has come!” This is not a call to return to the nominal churches, for we know that they also have fallen away from truth. This is a call to go “beyond Adventism” and beyond all of the other false belief systems of this world.

It is strange indeed that Adventism pegs its entire belief system upon one text from Revelation which states "And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Yahushua: worship the Almighty: for the testimony of Yahushua is the spirit of prophecy." (Revelation 19:10) What is the irony? The irony, friend, is that while they use the last part of this verse to somehow show that Ellen White is "the spirit of prophecy" spoken of herethey completely ignore the fundamental message of this text mentioned in the first part of that verse. The primary message of this verse (and of the whole prophecy of Revelation) is that we are not

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to make anyone into an object of worship, not an angel, and certainly not a man (or woman?) We are to worship Almighty Yahweh only! And that, my friend, was the reason I had been given that dreama friendly warning to me (and now to you) that we are not to worship anyone but Almighty Yahweh.

My position is the true Protestant position of “Scripture and scripture alone”. When we have to have the assistance of human interpreters to understand Scripture then whatever we want to call ourselves, we are not depending upon the true "Spirit of Prophecy" but upon “the arm of flesh” as Scripture calls it. And friend, who knowsit could be that this "Spirit" (in a small way) is even speaking to your heart now through this writing.

One thing is for certain, whatever you believe about this person’s “gift” or that persons “gift”, in the end you will only stand or fall based upon your obedience to the “commandments” of Yahweh and your “faith” in the true Messiah Yahushua. Revelation 15:2 states clearly that the remnant 144,000 will have overcome the beast and his image, his mark, his number and his blasphemous name. Revelation 14:1 further states they will have the true name of their Father within their forehead: “And I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing upon mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand, having his name and the name of his Father written upon their foreheads.” (Darby Translation, Rev 14:1) The question is, do you and I have the true names of the Father and His Son within our foreheads? And if not, are we prepared to continue in our advance toward the kingdom of Yahweh by receiving their true names in our forehead?

The purpose of the true Spirit of prophecy was then and is now to bring us to the unity that only comes through a total understanding of the character and purpose of Yahweh and His kingdom. If Yahweh permits, it would even be good if we could all be prophetsand no true follower of Messiah would "despise prophesying". So I still believe in the true Spirit of prophecy, and pray often that this Spirit might return to us and (along with and in accordance with Scripture) guide us into the gates of the New Jerusalem.

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AppendixFull quote of the "Bates" letter from Ellen White to Joseph Bates (co-founder of the SDA church), which was hidden from the eyes of most SDA's from 1847 to 1980, when it finally was discovered, photographed, and now we have at least a partial transcript. I say "partial" because several pages of the original letter are missing. And even now most Adventists do not know of the contents of this letter, although they have heard of the controversy raging over the "shut door" issue. It is this letter which proves conclusively that Mrs. White did indeed claim to receive the vision upon which she and many other Advent believers became settled on the issue of the "shut door" theory. The "shut door" teaches that in 1844 when most of the churches rejected the message of the Adventists about the soon coming of the Messiah, the door was "shut" and from that point on only those who were believers in the Adventist message and were waiting for their Lord to come in 1844 would be saved. If it is true that she taught a false doctrine, while claiming that the authority of that doctrine rested upon a vision she had received, then it would be proof that she is not an inspired prophet of Yahweh.

Here is that letter in its entirety, without comment or changes:

"Gorham, Maine, July 13, 1847"

"Dear Brother Bates:

"As James is at work and sisters are from home thought I would employ myself in writing a line to you. My health is quite good for me. My faith is still strong that that very same Jesus that ascended up into heaven will so come in like manner as He went up, and that very, very soon. I have had many trials of late; discouragement at times has laid so fast hold upon me it seemed impossible to shake it off. But thank God, Satan has not got the victory over me yet, and by the grace of God he never shall. I know and feel my weakness, but I have laid hold upon the strong arm of Jehovah, and I can say today I know that my Redeemer liveth, and if He lives I shall live also. Oh how good it would be to meet with a few of like precious faith to exhort and comfort one another with words of holy cheer from the word of God. The sheep are now scattered, but thank God, they are about to be gathered to a good pasture.

Oh how sweet it will be to meet all the blood-washed throng in the city of our God. 'Tis then we'll sing the song of Moses and the Lamb as we march through the gates into the city, bearing the palms of victory and wearing the crowns of glory.

Brother Bates, you write in a letter to James something about the Bridegroom's coming, as stated in the first published visions. By the letter you would like to know whether I had light on the Bridegroom's coming before I saw it in vision. I can readily answer, No. The Lord showed me the travail of the Advent band and midnight cry in December, but He did not show me the Bridegroom's coming until February following. Perhaps you would like to have me give a statement in relation to both visions. At the time I had the vision of the midnight cry I had given it up in the past and thought it future, as also most of the band had. I know not what time J. Turner got out his paper. I knew he had one out and one was in the house, but I knew not what was in it, for I did not read a word in it. I had been, and still was very sick, I took no interest in reading, for it injured my head and made me

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nervous. After I had the vision and God gave me light, He bade me deliver it to the band, but I shrank from it. I was young, and I thought they would not receive it from me. I disobeyed the Lord, and instead of remaining at home, where the meeting was to be that night, I got in a sleigh in the morning and rode three or four miles and there I found J. T. He merely inquired how I was and if I was in the way of my duty. I said nothing, for I knew I was not. I passed up chamber and did not see him again for two hours, when he came up, asked if I was to be at meeting that night. I told him, No. He said he wanted to hear my vision and thought it duty for me to go home. I told him I should not. He said no more, but went away. I thought, and told those around me, if I went I should have to come out against his views, thinking he believed with the rest. I had not told any of them what God had shown me, and I did not tell them in what I should cut across his track.

"All that day I suffered much in body and mind. It seemed that God had forsaken me entirely. I prayed the Lord if he would give me strength to ride home that night, the first opportunity I would deliver the message He had given me. He did give me strength and I rode home that night. Meeting had been done some time, and not a word was said by any of the family about the meeting.

"Very early next morning J. T. called, said he was in haste going out of the city in a short time, and wanted I should tell him all that God had shown me in vision. It was with fear and trembling I told him all. After I had got through he said he had told out the same last evening. I was rejoiced, for I expected he was coming out against me, for all the while I had not heard any one say what he believed. He said the Lord had sent him to hear me talk the evening before, but as I would not, he meant his children should have the light in some way, so he took him. There were but few out when he talked, so the next meeting I told my vision, and the band, believing my visions from God, received what God bade me to deliver to them.

"The view about the Bridegroom's coming I had about the middle of February, 1845.

"While in Exeter, Maine in meeting with Israel Dammon, James, and many others, many of them did not believe in a shut door. I suffered much at the commencement of the meeting. Unbelief seemed to be on every hand. There was one sister there that was called very spiritual. She had traveled and been a powerful preacher the most of the time for twenty years. She had been truly a mother in Israel. But a division had risen in the band on the shut door. She had great sympathy, and could not believe the door was shut. (I had known nothing of their differences.) Sister Durben got up to talk. I felt very, very sad. At length my soul seemed to be in an agony, and while she was talking I fell from my chair to the floor. It was then I had a view of Jesus rising from His mediatorial throne and going to the holiest as Bridegroom to receive His kingdom. They were all deeply interested in the view. They all said it was entirely new to them. The Lord worked in mighty power setting the truth home to their hearts. Sister Durben knew what the power of the Lord was, for she had felt it many times; and a short time after I fell she was struck down, and fell to the floor, crying to God to have mercy on her. When I came out of vision, my ears were saluted with Sister Durben's singing and shouting with a loud voice. Most of them received the vision, and were settled upon the shut door. Previous to this I had no light on the coming of the

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Bridegroom, but had expected him to this earth to deliver His people on the tenth day of the seventh month. I did not hear a lecture or a word in any way relating to the Bridegroom's going to the holiest.

"I had but very few privileges in 1842, 3 & 4. My sisters both went to the camp meetings in New Hampshire and Maine, while my health prevented me from going to but one, in Maine. I know the light I received came from God, it was not taught me by man. I knew not how to write so that others could read it till God gave me my visions. I went to school but very little on account of my health. I do not think I went to school a day after I was twelve years old, and did not go then but a few days at a time, when sickness would cause me to take my bed for weeks and sometimes for months. The first I wrote anything that could be called writing was after I had been sick the prayer of faith was put up for me, and healing . . . [rest of letter missing] (Letter B-3, 1847, Letter to Joseph Bates, July 13, 1847, Manuscript Release #281-4, Ellen G. White Estate)

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