Agitation of Matters Relating to the Colored People

Perhaps before closing this communication, we should call attention to the cautions sounded by Ellen White concerning agitation of questions involving the colored people. Her burden of heart was that everyone, white and colored, might relate himself to these very delicate matters in such a manner as to make possible the widest dissemination of the message for this time, and to keep the field in such a condition as to be favorable for the reception of such a message. She sensed that at times there was indiscreet action taken by both the white and colored members of our churches. She wrote of this in 1904 as follows:SWR 10.2

“It will be impossible to adjust all matters regarding the color question in accordance with the Lord’s order until those who believe the truth are so closely united with Christ that they are one with Him. Both the white and the colored members of our churches need to be converted. There are some of both classes who are unreasonable, and when the color question is agitated they manifest unsanctified, unconverted traits of character. Quarrelsome elements are easily aroused in those who, because they have never learned to wear the yoke of Christ, are opinionated and obstinate. In such, self clamors with an unsanctified determination for the supremacy.”—E G. White Letter 105, 1904.

May the Lord help all of us to exercise good sanctified common sense and discretion, lest the precious work of God be marred.SWR 10.3