Has It Been Worth While?

As we glance again at the list of contributions, we find we have noted only one or two examples in connection with each. Paul says, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” Has the gift made sufficient contribution to the advent cause that we may say unqualifiedly that it is good, and something to which we should hold fast?APAY 388.1

After Mrs. White’s death in 1915, the editor of the New York Independent, a leading religious journal of that day, wrote of her life and contributions to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. First he spoke of some of the teachings of the denomination, in these words: “Of course, these teachings were based on the strictest doctrine of inspiration of the Scriptures. Seventh-day Adventism could be got in no other way. And the gift of prophecy was to be expected as promised to the ‘remnant church,’ who had held fast to the truth. This faith gave great purity of life and incessant zeal. No body of Christians excels them in moral character and religious earnestness.” The author then told of the growth of the Seventh-day Adventist work in many lands, of the schools, publishing houses, and sanitariums. The figures, of course, are now out of date. Then he continued: “And in all this Ellen G. White has been the inspiration and guide. Here is a noble record, and she deserves great honor.” The Independent, Aug. 23, 1915.APAY 388.2

A series of resolutions adopted by the 1954 session of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is introduced in part by these words: “We recognize that in the early days of the remnant church there was given to it the gift of the spirit of prophecy, and through this gift by voice and pen during the life of Ellen G. White and through her writings since her death, we have been counseled, guided, and led to higher planes of spiritual experience, to higher standards, and to a clear concept of coming events.” Farther in the introduction these words appear: “We recognize the value of the spirit of prophecy messages to the church throughout the world and that the principles enunciated by the servant of the Lord ... are of equal value to the church in all lands in fostering Bible standards, encouraging the spirit of devotion and sacrifice, and guarding and unifying the church.” “Recommendations and Resolutions Adopted at the Forty-Seventh Session of the General Conference,” May 24 to June 5, 1954.APAY 389.1

To anyone well acquainted with the history and present operation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the place occupied by the work and writings of Ellen White is clear. The General Conference in session has repeatedly given voice to the conviction that by this means God has given the church the special guidance it has needed. This manifestation of the gift of prophecy may be “proved” by the application of any practical type of test, and will be found to be one of the good things Paul referred to—one to which the church should “hold fast.”APAY 389.2