B. Present Implications
To assume naively that all is well on the racial front would be to miss the principle. In spite of her balanced caution, Ellen White was hopeful on the race question and spoke of the power of Christ over the power of prejudice. Advances have been made. We have realized progress as a result of her “until-the-Lord-shows-us-a-better-way” principle (Testimonies for the Church 9:207). We have realized in our day the truth of her words, “When these unchristian prejudices are broken down more earnest effort will be put forth to do missionary effort among the colored race” (The Southern Work, 55ff). At times and in different places it appears as if we are nearing the time that she spoke of by inference when she said, “The time has not yet come for us to work as though there were no prejudice” (White Estate Shelf Document, Comments Relative to the Revival of Slavery, p. 14). Yet we cannot afford to be oblivious of the counter realities as well.EGWUTRW 32.1
We can well praise the Lord for the progress made, but we also need to give thought to the somber note she sounded when saying:EGWUTRW 32.2
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.
Such a statement should cause honest, thinking Christians to examine themselves carefully lest a spirit other than Christ’s be found; for the devil is quick to fan the flame of self and prejudice alive wherever he may see its faint glow.EGWUTRW 33.1