Contexts

This volume contains a variety of “contextual” notes. Commonly, in order to provide a broader perspective, especially where Ellen White touches on debated issues, a note attempts to place her position in the context of the wider discussion. Thus, for example, a note contrasts her view on the millennium and future persecution of the saints with that of Millerite Adventists and with the early positions that Joseph Bates and James White took.1EGWLM 64.4

Notes of another kind involve competing interpretations of certain Ellen White passages or expressions. Most conspicuous among these (involving the pre-1852 period) has been the debate among scholars over how to interpret Ellen White's allusions to some kind of probationary end in 1844. Notes list some of the major contenders in these “shut door” debates, with an evaluation of their respective arguments.1EGWLM 64.5

Often the reader is left wondering about the outcome of an event, instruction, or prediction found in a letter. Did the sick person revive? Was Ellen White's instruction heeded or rejected? Were predictions or promises fulfilled? Where known, such information has been supplied. Unfortunately, very few of the letters Ellen White received in response to her communications during this early period have survived, making it more difficult to provide answers to these kinds of questions.1EGWLM 64.6

Still other notes describe outcomes or focus on the historical background leading up to a particular event or situation, such as the series of events culminating in the formation of the Messenger Party.1EGWLM 64.7