Sanctuary – Part 4 [S.o.P.]

The LORD has shown me in vision, that JESUS ROSE UP, AND SHUT THE DOOR, AND ENTERED THE HOLY OF HOLIES, AT THE 7TH MONTH 1844; but Michael’s standing up (Daniel 12:1) to deliver his people, is in the future. {WLF 12.4}

This, will not take place, until JESUS has finished his priestly office in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and LAYS OFF HIS PRIESTLY ATTIRE, AND PUTS ON HIS MOST KINGLY ROBES, AND CROWN, TO RIDE FORTH ON THE CLOUDY CHARIOT, TO “thresh the heathen in anger,” and DELIVER HIS PEOPLE. {WLF 12.5 1847}

THEN JESUS WILL HAVE THE SHARP SICKLE IN HIS HAND, (Revelation 14:14) AND THEN THE SAINTS WILL CRY DAY AND NIGHT TO JESUS ON THE CLOUD, to thrust in his sharp sickle and reap. {WLF 12.6 1847}

THIS, WILL BE THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE, (Jeremiah 30:5-8) out of which, THE SAINTS WILL BE DELIVERED BY THE VOICE OF GOD. {WLF 12.7 1847}

I believe the SANCTUARY, to be CLEANSED at the end of the 2300 days, is the NEW JERUSALEM TEMPLE, of which CHRIST is a minister. The LORD shew me in vision, more than one year ago, that Brother Crosier had the true light, on the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY, &c; and that it was his will, that Brother C. should write out the view which he gave us in the Day-Star, Extra, February 7, 1846. I feel fully authorized by the LORD, to recommend that Extra, to every saint. {WLF 12.8 1847}

At the commencement of the HOLY SABBATH, (Jan. 5,) we engaged in prayer with Bro. Belden’s family at ROCKy Hill, Ct., and the HOLY GHOST fell upon us. I was taken off in Vision to the MOST HOLY PLACE, where I saw JESUS still interceding for Israel. ON THE BOTTOM OF HIS GARMENT WAS A BELL AND A POMEGRANATE, A BELL AND A POMEGRANATE. Then I saw that JESUS would not leave the MOST HOLY PLACE until every case was decided either for salvation or destruction: and that the WRATH OF GOD could not come until JESUS had finished his work in the MOST HOLY PLACE–laid off his priestly attire and clothed himself with the garments of vengeance. Then JESUS will step out from between the FATHER and man, and GOD will keep silent no longer; but pour out his wrath on those who have rejected his truth. I SAW THAT THE ANGER OF THE NATIONS, THE WRATH OF GOD, AND THE TIME TO JUDGE THE DEAD, WERE SEPARATE EVENTS, ONE FOLLOWING THE OTHER. I saw that Michael had not stood up, and that the TIME OF TROUBLE, such as never was, had not yet commenced. The nations are now getting angry, but WHEN OUR HIGH PRIEST HAS FINISHED HIS WORK IN THE SANCTUARY, he will stand up, PUT ON THE GARMENTS OF VENGEANCE, and THEN THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES WILL BE POURED OUT.

I saw that THE FOUR ANGELS WOULD HOLD THE FOUR WINDS UNTIL JESUS WORK WAS DONE IN THE SANCTUARY, and THEN WILL COME THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES. THESE PLAGUES ENRAGED THE WICKED AGAINST THE RIGHTEOUS, and they thought that we had brought them down upon them, and if they could rid the earth of us, then the PLAGUES would be stayed. A DECREE WENT FORTH TO SLAY THE SAINTS, which caused them to cry day and night for deliverance. This was the TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE. Then ALL THE SAINTS cried out with anguish of spirit, and WERE DELIVERED BY THE VOICE OF GOD. Then the 144,000 triumphed. Their faces were lighted up with the GLORY OF GOD. Then I was shown a company who were howling in agony. On their garments was written in large characters–thou art weighed in the balance, and found wanting. I asked who this company were. The angel said,”these are they who have once kept the SABBATH and have given it up.” I heard them cry with a loud voice–“we have believed in thy coming, and taught it with energy.” And while they were speaking, their eyes would fall upon their garments and see the writing, and then they would wail aloud. I saw they had drunk of the deep waters, and fouled the residue with their feet–trodden the SABBATH underfoot, and that is why they were weighed in the balance and found wanting. Then my attending angel directed me to the city again, where I saw four angels winging their way to the gate of the city, and were just presenting the golden card to the angel at the gate. Then I saw another angel swiftly flying from the direction of the most excellent glory, and crying with a loud voice to the other angels, and waving something up and down in his hand. I asked my attending angel for an explanation of what I saw. He told me that I could see no more then, but he would shortly show me what those things that I then saw meant. {Broadside2, January 31, 1849 par. 2} {Ms2-1849}

I will now write you the vision GOD gave me on the SABBATH, the 24th of March. We had a glorious meeting. I was taken off in vision. {Lt5-1849}

I saw the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and SHUT DOOR could not be separated. I saw [that] the time for the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD to shine out to His people was when the DOOR WAS OPENED in the INNER APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY {where the ARK is containing the commandments. This door was not opened until JESUS’ MEDIATION was finished in the OUTER APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY} in 1844. Then JESUS rose up and SHUT THE DOOR IN THE OUTER APARTMENT and OPENED THE DOOR IN THE INNER APARTMENT and passed into the MOST HOLY PLACE, and the faith of Israel now reaches within the SECOND VEIL where JESUS now stands by the ARK. I saw that JESUS had SHUT THE DOOR IN THE HOLY PLACE and no man can open it, and that He had OPENED THE DOOR IN THE MOST HOLY PLACE and no man can shut it; and that since JESUS had OPENED THE DOOR IN THE MOST HOLY PLACE the commandments have been shining out and GOD has been testing His people on the HOLY SABBATH. I saw that the test on the SABBATH could not come until the MEDIATION OF JESUS was finished in the HOLY and He had passed within the SECOND VEIL; therefore Christians who died before the seventh month, 1844, and had not kept the true SABBATH, rest in hope, for there was no condemnation until the true light on the SABBATH came. {I saw that Satan was tempting GOD’S people on this point because so many good Christians had died in the hope, and had not kept the true SABBATH.} {Lt5-1849} {Ms1-1849 which has {…} extra wordings}.

SABBATH, March 24th, 1849, we had a sweet, and very interesting meeting with the Brethren at Topsham, Me. The HOLY GHOST was poured out upon us, and I was taken off in the SPIRIT to the CITY OF THE LIVING GOD. There I was shown that the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST, relating to the SHUT DOOR, could not be separated, and that the time for the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD to shine out, with all their importance, and for GOD’S people to be tried on the SABBATH truth, was when the DOOR WAS OPENED in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where the ARK is, containing the TEN COMMANDMENTS. This door was not opened, until the MEDIATION OF JESUS was finished in the HOLY PLACE of the SANCTUARY in 1844. Then, JESUS rose up, and SHUT THE DOOR IN THE HOLY PLACE, and OPENED THE DOOR IN THE MOST HOLY, and passed within the SECOND VEIL, where he now stands by the ARK; and where the faith of Israel now reaches. {RH, August 1, 1849 par. 2}

O, let us live wholly for the LORD, and show by a well ordered life, and godly conversation that we have been with JESUS, and are his meek and lowly followers. We must work while the day lasts, for when the dark night of trouble and anguish comes, it will be too late to work for GOD. JESUS is still in his HOLY TEMPLE, and will now accept our sacrifices, our prayers, and our confessions of faults and sins, and will now pardon all the transgressions of Israel, that they may be blotted out before he leaves the SANCTUARY. When JESUS leaves the SANCTUARY, then he that is holy and righteous, will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD. But those that are unjust and filthy, will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the SANCTUARY to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the FATHER’S THRONE. Therefore, what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath, must be done before JESUS leaves the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {RH, September 1, 1849 par. 7}

Said the angel, JESUS’ work is almost finished in the SANCTUARY. It is no time to be stupid now; a quick work will the LORD do upon the earth, the four angels will soon let go the four winds. Said the angel, Beware how thou treadest enchantment all around thee, East and West, North and South. If Satan can get thee to slumber now he is sure of his prey. I saw some in Israel had been half starved for food and when the present truth was presented to them, they ate it with thankfulness and gratitude like half-starved children. {Ms5-1850}

Said the angel, Can ye stand in the battle in the day of the LORD? Ye need to be washed and live in newness of life. (Then I saw those whose hands are now engaged in making up the breach and are standing in the gaps that have formally, since 1844, broken the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and have so far followed the Pope as to keep the first day instead of the seventh, would have to go down into the water and be baptized in the faith of the SHUT DOOR and keeping the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and in the FAITH OF JESUS coming to sit on the THRONE of His father David and to redeem Israel. I also saw those who have been baptized as a door into the professed churches will have to be baptized out of that door again, and into the faith mentioned above, and all who have not been baptized since 1844, will have to be baptized before JESUS comes, and some will not gain progress now until that duty is done and then they must live anew unto GOD and serve him faithfully.) {Ms5-1850}

Said the angel, Will ye sink and let others take the stars to your crown? I told the angel I could not endure to see any in Israel sinking. Thou ADVOCATE, save the purchase of Thy blood. What more can we do for Thee? O, that we had more to give to the lovely JESUS; more to render to Him for His merciful kindness unto us. We will do anything, we will go anywhere, only lend us strength from the SANCTUARY. {Ms5-1850}

Then I saw Bro. Bates. Said the angel, Be not quick to receive error, nor too slow to receive the truth. I saw that the women of (Revelation 14:4) meant the churches and that we were bid to “come out of her” that we be not defiled, partake of her sins, and receive of her PLAGUES. I saw that Bro. Bates had not applied (Revelation 14:4) correctly, and his error had caused confusion. Then I saw that AFTER JESUS LEAVES THE SANCTUARY THE PLAGUES WILL BE POURED OUT. Said the angel, It is the WRATH OF GOD and the LAMB that causes the destruction or death of the wicked. {Ms14-1850}

Then I saw that JESUS’ work in the SANCTUARY was almost finished, almost finished, and after His work there is finished He will come to the door of the TABERNACLE, or door of the FIRST APARTMENT, and confess the sins of Israel upon the head of the scape goat. Then He will put on the garments of vengeance. Then the PLAGUES come upon the wicked, and they do not come until JESUS puts on the garments of vengeance and takes His seat upon the great white cloud. Then while the PLAGUES are falling the scape goat is being led away. He makes a mighty struggle to escape, but he is held fast by the hand that bears him away. If he should effect his escape Israel would be destroyed (or slain). I saw that it would take time to bear him away into the land of forgetfulness after the sins were put upon his head. {Ms15-1850}

JESUS clothes Himself with the garments of vengeance and takes His place upon the great white cloud before the PLAGUES are poured out. The great white cloud, I saw, was not in the HOLY PLACE but entirely separate from the HOLY and MOST HOLY, entirely separate from the SANCTUARY. {Ms15-1850}

As JESUS passed through the HOLY PLACE or FIRST APARTMENT, to the door to confess the sins of Israel on the scape goat, an angel said, This APARTMENT is called the SANCTUARY. Then the angel repeated these words and said this is the time spoken of, and he saw that there was no man and wondered that there was no INTERCESSOR; we had no MEDIATOR between GOD and man and the PLAGUES could be withheld no longer, for JESUS had ceased to plead for Israel, and they were covered with the covering of ALMIGHTY GOD and lived in His sight, and those who were not covered felt the PLAGUES, for they had nothing to shelter them. {Ms15-1850}

Then I was shown that the seven last PLAGUES will be poured out, after JESUS leaves the SANCTUARY. Said the angel–It is the WRATH OF GOD and the LAMB that causes the destruction or death of the wicked. At the VOICE OF GOD the saints will be mighty and terrible as an army with banners; but they will not then execute the judgment written. The execution of the judgment will be at the close of the 1000 years. {RH, November 1, 1850 par. 4}

At the general conference of believers in the present truth, held at Sutton, (Vt.) September, 1850, I was shown that the seven last PLAGUES will be poured out after JESUS leaves the SANCTUARY. Said the angel, It is the WRATH OF GOD and the LAMB that causes the destruction or death of the wicked. At the VOICE OF GOD the saints will be mighty and terrible as an army with banners; but they will not then execute the judgment written. The execution of the judgment will be at the close of the 1000 years. {ExV 33.1 1851}

But such subjects as the SANCTUARY, in connection with the 2300 days, the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS, are perfectly calculated to explain the past Advent movement, show what is our present position, and establish the faith of the doubting, and give certainty to the glorious future. These, I have frequently seen, were the principal subjects on which the messengers should dwell. {ExV 51.2 1851}

I also saw that many did not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the LORD, without a HIGH PRIEST in the SANCTUARY, through the TIME OF TROUBLE. Those who receive the SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD, and are protected in the TIME OF TROUBLE, must reflect the image of JESUS fully. {ExV 58.2 1851}

The sword cannot touch them. Can ye not see that prayers are going up from that company? His ear is heavy. That fountain is open for Judah and Jerusalem to wash in. Think ye that they can cover up the least sin and yet get in where the angels are? That SANCTUARY a great HIGH PRIEST. Israel is not right. Why? O why are ye not in love to plunge-bring them up, get ready (four times). He is coming. Unless you get ready, others will go in before you. Suffer them not to blind their eyes to their own destruction. Help the children to get ready, the four angels holding for Israel to get ready. Will the angels wait? No, look ye! Can ye not see? Not ready, something to be done. Self! Self! O JESUS, pity and forgive thine erring children.” {Ms2-1852}

After she came out of vision some things were more fully explained. Respecting that time will try men’s souls, confusion will take place and their desire will not be accomplished. {Ms2-1852}

That desire was with the people to dethrone their kings, but it would not be accomplished, for kings would reign until CHRIST begins to reign. Said she, I saw away off there in Europe just as things were moving to accomplish their desires there would appear to be a slacking up once or twice. This would serve to harden the hearts of the wicked, but the work would not settle down, only appear to; for the minds of the rulers were as intent in sustaining themselves, as were the minds of the people to get the ascendancy. I saw that each party ruled and rulers were stretching their thoughts intensely on this work before them. The sins of Israel must go to judgment beforehand. Every sin must be confessed at the SANCTUARY. Then the work will move, it must be done now (“Now” probably referred to some present.) The remnant in the TIME OF TROUBLE will cry, “My GOD, my GOD, why has Thou forsaken me?” {Ms2-1852}

I am of good courage but not very well in body. We believe the LORD will give us strength. The enemy made a powerful effort to keep us from Michigan, but he has not succeeded as yet. O that GOD would give us strength from the SANCTUARY. We shall plead for it until it comes, it must come, we cannot labor without it. It will come from GOD, we believe, and [we] mean to walk out by faith. The promise will not fail us, it will be verified. {Lt2-1853}

May GOD pity you in JackSON, for I fear for some they are so shut up in themselves and in darkness and the deception of the devil, that they will continue until JESUS leaves the SANCTUARY and they are weighed in the balance and found wanting. {Lt3-1853}

2. The view of the “Open and Shut Door,” was given in 1849. The application of Revelation 3:7, 8, to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and CHRIST’S ministry, was entirely new to me. I had never heard the idea advanced by any one. Now, as the subject of the SANCTUARY is being clearly understood, the application is seen in its beauty and force. {ExV54 4.1 1854}

Those who profess to be servants of the LIVING GOD, must be willing to be servants of all, instead of being exalted above the brethren, and they must possess a kind courteous spirit. If they err, they should be ready to confess thoroughly. Honesty of intention cannot stand as an excuse for not confessing errors. Confession would not lessen the confidence of the church in the messenger, and he would set a good example, a spirit of confession would be encouraged in the church, and sweet union would be the result. I have seen that those who profess to be teachers, should be patterns of piety, meekness, and of great humility, possessing a kind spirit, to win souls to JESUS, and the truth of the BIBLE. A minister of CHRIST should be pure in conversation and in actions. He should ever bear in mind that he is handling words of inspiration, words of a HOLY GOD. He must bear in mind that the flock is entrusted to his care, and he is to bear their cases to JESUS, and plead for them as JESUS pleads for us to the FATHER. I was pointed back to the children of Israel anciently, and saw how pure and holy the ministers of the SANCTUARY had to be, because they were brought by their work into a close connection with GOD. They that should minister, must be holy, pure and without blemish, or GOD would destroy them. I saw that GOD had not changed. He was just as holy and pure, just as particular as ever he was. He changeth not! Those who profess to be the ministers of JESUS, should be men of experience and deep piety, and then at all times, and in all places they can shed a holy influence. {ExV54 21.1 1854} {Ms2-1853}

JESUS is coming! But not to listen to the woes of mankind, and to hear the guilty sinner confess his sins, and to speak pardon to him; for every one’s case will then be decided for life or death. Those who have lived in sin will remain sinners forever. Those who have confessed their sins to JESUS in the SANCTUARY, have made him their friend and have loved his appearing, will have pardon written for all their sins, and they, having purified their souls “in obeying the truth,” will remain pure and holy forever. {YI, April 1, 1854 par. 4}

JESUS is now pleading for you in the SANCTUARY. You can now come to him and he will give you strength. He will wash away your sins if you truly repent of them, and humbly and earnestly seek his pardon. He knows your weakness, and is ready to have compassion upon you, although you may have sinned much against him. Some of you may have faults that it seems hard for you to correct and overcome. You may feel discouraged at times, and think that it is impossible to live out religion; but do not give over the effort. Be determined to get the victory over yourself. You can live out your profession. You can set a good example to your friends and associates, which will tell to them that there is a reality in religion, that you are Christians in deed and in truth; for they will see that religion corrects your faults, makes you mild and humble, and removes from you self-conceit, vanity and pride. {YI, May 1, 1854 par. 2}

SECRET PRAYER, WHICH IS TOO MUCH NEGLECTED, IS THE LIFE OF THE CHRISTIAN. Let us go to GOD alone and fix our minds upon him, have every thing else shut out, and then draw by living faith, light and strength from the SANCTUARY. Let us not rise from our knees until we can rely upon GOD’S promises with an unwavering faith. Then we shall be benefitted by secret prayer. {RH, June 12, 1855 par. 8}

Wm. Miller and those who were in union with him supposed that the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY, spoken of in Daniel 8:14, meant the purifying of the earth prior to its becoming the abode of the saints. This was to take place at the advent of CHRIST, therefore we looked for that event at the end of the 2300 days, or years. But after our disappointment the SCRIPTURES were carefully searched with prayer and earnest thought, and after a period of suspense as to our true position, light poured in upon our darkness; doubt and uncertainty was swept away. {ST, April 20, 1876 par. 7} {1T 58.2 1855-1868}

In the autumn of 1846 we began to observe the BIBLE SABBATH, and to teach and defend it. My attention was first called to the SABBATH while I was on a visit to New Bedford, Massachusetts, earlier in the same year. I there became acquainted with Elder Joseph Bates, who had early embraced the advent faith, and was an active laborer in the cause. Elder B. was keeping the SABBATH, and urged its importance. I did not feel its importance, and thought that Elder B. erred in dwelling upon the FOURTH COMMANDMENT more than upon the other nine. But the LORD gave me a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and I was shown THE ARK OF GOD COVERED WITH THE MERCY SEAT. TWO ANGELS STOOD, ONE AT EACH END OF THE ARK, WITH THEIR WINGS SPREAD OVER THE MERCY SEAT, AND THEIR FACES TURNED TOWARD IT. My accompanying angel informed me that these represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward the HOLY LAW which had been written by the FINGER OF GOD. JESUS raised the cover of the ARK, and I beheld the TABLES OF STONE on which the TEN COMMANDMENTS were written. I was amazed as I saw the FOURTH COMMANDMENT in the very center of the ten precepts, with a soft halo of light encircling it. Said the angel: “It is the only one of the ten which defines the LIVING GOD who created the heavens and the earth and all things that are therein. When the foundations of the earth were laid, then was laid the foundation of the SABBATH also.” {1T 75.4 1855-1868}

The heart should go out in fervent prayer while the hands are busy, and Satan will not find such ready access, and the soul, instead of being lifted up unto vanity, will be constantly refreshed, will be like a watered garden. Angels will delight to be near such workers, for their presence will be continually encouraged by them. A power will attend the truths published. Divine rays of light from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY will attend the precious truths sent forth, so that those who read will be refreshed and strengthened, and souls that are opposed to the truth will be convicted and compelled to say: These things are so; they cannot be gainsaid. {1T 592.1 1855-1868}

The LORD designated a special family of the tribe of Levi to bear the ARK; and others of the Levites were specially appointed of GOD to bear the TABERNACLE and all its FURNITURE, and to perform the work of setting up and taking down the TABERNACLE. And if any man from curiosity or from lack of order got out of his place and touched any part of the SANCTUARY or FURNITURE, or even came near any of the workmen, he was to be put to death. GOD did not leave His HOLY TABERNACLE to be borne, erected, and taken down, indiscriminately, by any tribe who might choose the office; but persons were chosen who could appreciate the sacredness of the work in which they were engaged. These men appointed of GOD were directed to impress upon the people the special sacredness of the ARK and all that appertained thereunto, lest they should look upon these things without realizing their holiness and should be cut off from Israel. All things pertaining to the MOST HOLY PLACE were to be looked upon with reverence. {1T 652.1 1855-1868}

JESUS did not come to earth as the waiting, joyful company expected, to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY, by purifying the earth by fire. I saw that they were correct in their reckoning of the prophetic periods. PROPHETIC TIME CLOSED IN 1844. Their mistake consisted in not understanding what the SANCTUARY was, and the nature of its CLEANSING. JESUS did enter the MOST HOLY PLACE to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY at the ending of the days. I looked again at the waiting, disappointed company. They looked sad. They carefully examined the evidences of their faith, and followed down through the reckoning of the prophetic periods, and could discover no mistake. Time was fulfilled, but where was their SAVIOUR? They had lost him. {1SG 148.1 1858}

I was then shown the disappointment of the disciples as they came to the sepulchre and found not the body of JESUS. Said Mary, They have taken away my LORD, and I know not where they have laid him. Angels told the sorrowing disciples that their LORD had risen, and would go before them into Galilee. {1SG 149.1 1858}

I saw that as JESUS looked upon the disappointed ones with the deepest compassion, he sent his angels to direct their minds that they might find him, and follow him where he was; that they might understand that the earth is not the SANCTUARY; that he must needs enter the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to CLEANSE it; to make a SPECIAL ATONEMENT FOR ISRAEL, and to RECEIVE THE KINGDOM OF HIS FATHER, and then RETURN TO EARTH and TAKE THEM TO DWELL WITH HIM FOREVER. The disappointment of the disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their LORD in 1844. I was carried back to the time when CHRIST triumphantly rode into Jerusalem. The joyful disciples believed that he was then to take the kingdom, and reign a temporal prince. They followed their King with high hopes. They cut down the beautiful palm branches, and took off their outer garments, and with enthusiastic zeal spread them in the way; and some went before, and others followed crying, Hosanna to the SON of David! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the LORD! Hosanna in the highest! The excitement disturbed the Pharisees, and they wished JESUS to rebuke his disciples. But he said unto them, If these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. The prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, must be fulfilled, yet, I saw, the disciples were doomed to a bitter disappointment. In a few days they followed JESUS to Calvary, and beheld him bleeding and mangled upon the cruel cross. They witnessed his agonizing death, and laid him in the tomb. Their hearts sunk with grief. Their expectations were not realized in a single particular. Their hopes died with JESUS. But as he arose from the dead, and appeared to his sorrowing disciples, their hopes revived. They had lost their SAVIOUR; but again they had found him. {1SG 149.2 1858}

Chapter XXVII. – The SANCTUARY.

I was then shown the grievous disappointment of the people of GOD. They did not see JESUS at the expected time. They knew not why their SAVIOUR did not come. They could see no evidence why prophetic time had not ended. Said an angel, Has GOD’S WORD failed? Has GOD failed to fulfill his promises? No: he has fulfilled all he promised. JESUS has risen up, and has shut the door of the HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and has opened a door into the MOST HOLY PLACE, and has entered in to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. Said the angel, All who wait patiently shall understand the mystery. Man has erred; but there has been no failure on the part of GOD. All was accomplished that GOD promised; but man erroneously looked to the earth, believing it to be the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the prophetic periods. Man’s expectations have failed; but GOD’S promise not at all. JESUS sent his angels to direct the disappointed ones, to lead their minds into the MOST HOLY PLACE where he had gone to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY, and make a SPECIAL ATONEMENT FOR ISRAEL. JESUS told the angels that all who found him would understand the work which he was to perform. I saw that while JESUS was in the MOST HOLY PLACE he would be married to the NEW JERUSALEM, and after his work should be accomplished in the HOLIEST, he would descend to earth in kingly power and take the precious ones to himself who had patiently waited his return. {1SG 157.1 1858} {EW 250.1 1882} {EW 251.1 1882}

I was then shown what did take place in heaven as the prophetic periods ended in 1844. I saw that as the ministration of JESUS in the HOLY PLACE ended, and he closed the door of that APARTMENT, a great darkness settled upon those who had heard, and had rejected the messages of CHRIST’S coming, and they lost sight of him. JESUS then clothed himself with precious garments. AROUND THE BOTTOM OF HIS ROBE WAS A BELL AND A POMEGRANATE, A BELL AND A POMEGRANATE. He had suspended from his shoulders a BRESTPLATE of curious work. And as he moved, it glittered like diamonds, magnifying letters which looked like names written, or engraven upon the BRESTPLATE. After he was fully attired, with something upon his head which looked like a crown, angels surrounded him, and in a flaming chariot he passed within the SECOND VEIL. I was then bid to take notice of the TWO APARTMENTS of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The CURTAIN, or DOOR, was opened, and I was permitted to enter. In the FIRST APARTMENT I saw the CANDLESTICK WITH SEVEN LAMPS, which looked rich and glorious; also the table on which was the SHEWBREAD, and the ALTAR OF INCENSE, and the CENSER. All the FURNITURE of this APARTMENT looked like purest gold, and reflected the image of the one who entered that place. The CURTAIN which separated these TWO APARTMENTS looked glorious. It was of different colors and material, with a beautiful border, with figures of gold wrought upon it, representing angels. The VEIL was lifted, and I looked into the SECOND APARTMENT. I saw there an ARK which had the appearance of being of the finest gold. As a border around the top of the ARK, was most beautiful work representing crowns. It was of fine gold. In the ARK were the TABLES OF STONE containing the TEN COMMANDMENTS. {1SG 158.1a 1858} {EW 251.2 1882} {EW 251.3 1882}

On each end of the ARK was a lovely cherub with their wings spread out over it. Their wings were raised on high, and touched each other above the head of JESUS, as he stood by the ARK. Their faces were turned towards each other, and they looked downwards to the ARK, representing all the angelic host looking with interest at the LAW OF GOD. Between the CHERUBIM was a GOLDEN CENSER. And as the prayers of the saints in faith came up to JESUS, and he offered them to his FATHER, a sweet fragrance arose from the INCENSE. It looked like smoke of most beautiful colors. Above the place where JESUS stood, before the ARK, I saw an exceeding bright glory that I could not look upon. It appeared like a THRONE where GOD dwelt. As the INCENSE ascended up to the FATHER, the excellent glory came from the FATHER’S THRONE to JESUS, and from JESUS it was shed upon those whose prayers had come up like sweet INCENSE. Light and glory poured upon JESUS in rich abundance, and overshadowed the MERCY SEAT, and the train of the glory filled the temple. I could not long look upon the glory. No language can describe it. I was overwhelmed, and turned from the majesty and glory of the scene. {1SG 158.1b 1858}

I was shown a SANCTUARY upon earth containing TWO APARTMENTS. It resembled the one in heaven. I was told that it was the earthly SANCTUARY, a figure of the heavenly. The FURNITURE of the FIRST APARTMENT of the earthly SANCTUARY was like that in the FIRST APARTMENT of the heavenly. The VEIL was lifted, and I looked into the HOLY OF HOLIES, and saw that the FURNITURE was the same as in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The priests ministered in BOTH APARTMENTS of the earthly. In the FIRST APARTMENT he ministered every day in the year, and entered the MOST HOLY but once in a year, to CLEANSE it from the sins which had been conveyed there. I saw that JESUS ministered in BOTH APARTMENTS of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He entered into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY by the offering of his own blood. The earthly priests were removed by death, therefore they could not continue long; but JESUS, I saw, was a priest forever. Through the sacrifices and offerings brought to the earthly SANCTUARY, the children of Israel were to lay hold of the merits of a SAVIOUR to come. And in the wisdom of GOD the particulars of this work were given us that we might look back to them, and understand the work of JESUS in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {1SG 160.1 1858} {EW 252.2 1882}

At the crucifixion, as JESUS died on Calvary, he cried, It is finished, and the VEIL of the temple was rent in twain, from the top to the bottom. This was to show that the services of the earthly SANCTUARY were forever finished, and that GOD would no more meet with them in their earthly temple, to accept their sacrifices. The BLOOD OF JESUS was then shed, which was to be ministered by himself in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. As the priests in the earthly SANCTUARY entered the MOST HOLY once a year to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY, JESUS entered the MOST HOLY of the heavenly, at the end of the 2300 days of Dan, viii, in 1844, to make a FINAL ATONEMENT for all who could be benefited by his MEDIATION, and to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. {1SG 161.1 1858} {EW 253.1 1882}

Chapter XXVIII. – The Third Angel’s Message.

As the ministration of JESUS closed in the HOLY PLACE, and he passed into the HOLIEST, and stood before the ARK containing the LAW OF GOD, he sent another mighty angel to earth with the third message. He placed a parchment in the angel’s hand, and as he descended to earth in majesty and power, he proclaimed a fearful warning, the most terrible threatening ever borne to man. This message was designed to put the children of GOD upon their guard, and show them the hour of temptation and anguish that was before them. Said the angel, They will be brought into close combat with the beast and his image. Their only hope of ETERNAL life is to remain steadfast. Although their lives are at stake, yet they must hold fast the truth. The third angel closes his message with these words, Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS. As he repeated these words he pointed to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The minds of all who embrace this message are directed to the MOST HOLY PLACE where JESUS stands before the ARK, making his final intercession for all those for whom mercy still lingers, and for those who have ignorantly broken the LAW OF GOD. THIS ATONEMENT is made for the righteous dead as well as for the righteous living. JESUS makes an ATONEMENT for those who died, not receiving the light upon GOD’S commandments, who sinned ignorantly. {1SG 162.1 1858}

After JESUS opened the door of the MOST HOLY the light of the SABBATH was seen, and the people of GOD were to be tested and proved, as GOD proved the children of Israel anciently, to see if they would keep HIS LAW. I saw the third angel pointing upward, showing the disappointed ones the way to the HOLIEST of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They followed JESUS by faith into the MOST HOLY. Again they have found JESUS, and joy and hope spring up anew. I saw them looking back reviewing the past, from the proclamation of the second advent of JESUS, down through their travels to the passing of the time in 1844. They see their disappointment explained, and joy and certainty again animate them. The third angel has lighted up the past, present and future, and they know that GOD has indeed led them by his mysterious providence. {1SG 163.1 1858}

It was represented to me that the remnant followed JESUS into the MOST HOLY PLACE, and beheld the ARK, and the MERCY SEAT, and were captivated with their glory. JESUS raised the COVER OF THE ARK, and behold! the TABLES OF STONE, with the TEN COMMANDMENTS written upon them. They trace down the lively oracles; but they start back with trembling when they see the FOURTH COMMANDMENT living among the TEN HOLY PRECEPTS, while a brighter light shines upon it than upon the other nine, and a halo of glory is all around it. They find nothing there informing them that the SABBATH has been abolished, or changed to the first day of the week. It reads as when spoken by the MOUTH OF GOD in solemn and awful grandeur upon the mount, while the lightnings flashed and the thunders rolled, and when written with HIS OWN HOLY FINGER in the TABLES OF STONE. Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the SABBATH of the LORD thy GOD. They are amazed as they behold the care taken of the TEN COMMANDMENTS. They see them placed close by JEHOVAH, overshadowed and protected by his holiness. They see that they have been trampling upon the FOURTH COMMANDMENT of the DECALOGUE, and have observed a day handed down by the heathen and papists, instead of the day sanctified by JEHOVAH. They humble themselves before GOD, and mourn over their past transgressions. {1SG 164.1 1858}

I saw the INCENSE in the CENSER smoke as JESUS offered their confessions and prayers to his FATHER. And as it ascended, a bright light rested upon JESUS, and upon the MERCY SEAT; and the earnest, praying ones, who were troubled because they had discovered themselves to be transgressors of GOD’S LAW, were blest, and their countenances lighted up with hope and joy. They joined in the work of the third angel, and raised their voices and proclaimed the solemn warning. But few at first received the message, yet they continued with energy to proclaim the warning. Then I saw many embrace the message of the third angel, and unite their voices with those who had first proclaimed the warning, and they exalted GOD and magnified him by observing his sanctified Rest-day. {1SG 165.1 1858}

Many who embraced the third message had not an experience in the two former messages. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the third angel was pointing them to the MOST HOLY PLACE, and those who had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the angels’ messages, and gladly received it. They embraced them in their order, and followed JESUS by faith into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to hold the body. And as individuals receive and understand them, they are shielded against the many delusions of Satan. {1SG 165.2 1858}

I was pointed back to the proclamation of the first advent of CHRIST. John was sent in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for JESUS’ coming. Those who rejected the testimony of John were not benefited by the teachings of JESUS. Their opposition to the proclamation of his first advent placed them where they could not readily receive the strongest evidence of his being the MESSIAH. Satan led on those who rejected the message of John to go still further, to reject JESUS and crucify him. In doing this, they placed themselves where they could not receive the blessing on the day of Pentecost, which would have taught them the way into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. THE RENDING OF THE VEIL OF THE TEMPLE SHOWED THAT THE JEWISH SACRIFICES AND ORDINANCES WOULD NO LONGER BE RECEIVED. The great Sacrifice had been offered, and had been accepted, and the HOLY SPIRIT which descended on the day of Pentecost carried the minds of the disciples from the earthly SANCTUARY to the heavenly, where JESUS had entered by his own blood, and shed upon his disciples the benefits of HIS ATONEMENT. The Jews were left in complete deception and total darkness. They lost all the light they might have had upon the PLAN OF SALVATION, and still trusted in their useless sacrifices and offerings. They could not be benefited by the MEDIATION of CHRIST in the HOLY PLACE. The HEAVENLY SANCTUARY had taken the place of the earthly, yet they had no knowledge of the way to the heavenly. {1SG 169.1 1858}

All heaven watched with the deepest interest the reception of the message. But many who profess to love JESUS, and who shed tears as they read the story of the cross, instead of receiving the message with gladness, are stirred, with anger, and deride the good news of JESUS’ coming, and declare it to be delusion. They would not fellowship those who loved his appearing, but hated them, and shut them out of the churches. Those who rejected the first message could not be benefited by the second, and were not benefited by the midnight cry, which was to prepare them to enter with JESUS by faith into the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And by rejecting the two former messages, they can see no light in the third angel’s message, which shows the way into the MOST HOLY PLACE. I saw that the nominal churches, as the Jews crucified JESUS, had crucified these messages, and therefore they have no knowledge of the move made in heaven, or of the way into the MOST HOLY, and they cannot be benefited by the intercession of JESUS there. Like the Jews, who offered their useless sacrifices, they offer up their useless prayers to the APARTMENT which JESUS has left, and Satan, pleased with the deception of the professed followers of CHRIST, fastens them in his snare, and assumes a religious character, and leads the minds of these professed Christians to himself, and works with his power, his signs and lying wonders. Some he deceives in one way and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan deceives some with SPIRITUALISM. He also comes as an angel of light, and spreads his influence over the land. I saw false reformations every where. The churches were elated, and considered that GOD was marvelously working for them, when it was another spirit. It will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. {1SG 171.1 1858}

I saw that since JESUS had left the HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and had entered within the SECOND VEIL, the churches were left as were the Jews; and they have been filling up with every unclean and hateful bird. I saw great iniquity and vileness in the churches; yet they profess to be Christians. Their profession, their prayers and their exhortations, are an abomination in the sight of GOD. Said the angel, GOD will not smell in their assemblies. Selfishness, fraud and deceit are practiced by them without the reprovings of conscience. And over all these evil traits they throw the cloak of religion. I was shown the pride of the nominal churches. GOD was not in their thoughts; but their carnal minds dwell upon themselves. They decorate their poor mortal bodies, and then look upon themselves with satisfaction and pleasure. JESUS and the angels looked upon them in anger. Said the angel, Their sins and pride have reached unto heaven. Their portion is prepared. Justice and judgment have slumbered long, but will soon awake. Vengeance is mine, and I will repay, saith the LORD. The fearful threatenings of the third angel are to be realized, and they will drink the WRATH OF GOD. An innumerable host of evil angels are spreading themselves over the whole land. The churches and religious bodies are crowded with them. And they look upon the religious bodies with exultation; for the cloak of religion covers the greatest crimes and iniquity. {1SG 190.1 1858}

I saw that every case was then decided for life or death. JESUS had blotted out the sins of his people. He had received his kingdom, and the ATONEMENT had been made for the subjects of his kingdom. While JESUS had been ministering in the SANCTUARY, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the LAMB was finished. And the kingdom, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was given to JESUS, and the heirs of salvation, and JESUS was to reign as KING OF KINGS, and LORD OF LORDS. {1SG 197.3 1858}

As JESUS moved out of the MOST HOLY PLACE, I heard the tinkling of the bells upon his garment, and as he left, a cloud of darkness covered the inhabitants of the earth. There was then no MEDIATOR between guilty man, and an offended GOD. While JESUS had been standing between GOD and guilty man, a restraint was upon the people; but when JESUS stepped out from between man and the FATHER, the restraint was removed, and Satan had the control of man. It was impossible for the PLAGUES to be poured out while JESUS officiated in the SANCTUARY; but as his work there is finished, as his intercession closes, there is nothing to stay the WRATH OF GOD, and it breaks with fury upon the shelterless head of the guilty sinner, who has slighted salvation, and hated reproof. The saints in that fearful time, after the close of JESUS’ MEDIATION, were living in the sight of a HOLY GOD, without an INTERCESSOR. Every case was decided, every jewel numbered. JESUS tarried a moment in the OUTER APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and the sins which had been confessed while he was in the MOST HOLY PLACE, he placed back upon the originator of sin, the Devil. He must suffer the punishment of these sins. {1SG 198.1 1858}

While these evils remain untouched everything passes along smoothly, but when the STRAIGHT TESTIMONY comes and reproof and rebuke are given, there is a rising up against the STRAIGHT TESTIMONY. It does not agree with the carnal mind, their carnal security is disturbed, they resist the work of GOD, and some will fall off. The names of those who will be purified, made white, and tried are borne into the SANCTUARY and mentioned by JESUS to HIS FATHER, and they are brought before the special notice of GOD. But those who choose their own selfish course, their own dark way, will be permitted to go on. Satan will control the will, and they will lose everlasting life. Those who are saved must yield their will, their way, and be controlled by the SPIRIT OF GOD. They must die daily all the way along; die, die to self, and be purified by the truth. {Ms4-1860}

Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? Thou stretchedst out thy right hand, the earth swallowed them. Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed. Thou hast guided them in thy strength unto thy holy habitation. The people shall hear, and be afraid. Sorrow shall take hold on the inhabitants of Palestina. Then the dukes of Edom shall be amazed; the mighty men of Moab, trembling shall take hold upon them. All the inhabitants of Canaan shall melt away. Fear and dread shall fall upon them. By the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone, till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased. Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, in the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in, in the SANCTUARY, O LORD, which thy hands have established. {3SG 237.1 1864}

After the LORD had given Moses directions in regard to the SANCTUARY, He again gave him special instructions in regard to HIS SABBATH. And then he handed down from the cloud with his own divine hands the TABLES OF STONE to Moses, whereon he had engraven with HIS OWN FINGER the TEN COMMANDMENTS. {3SG 273.1 1864}

Chapter XXII. – The SANCTUARY.

The TABERNACLE was made according to the commandment of GOD. The LORD raised up men, and qualified them with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Neither those workmen nor Moses were left to plan the form, and workmanship of the building. GOD himself devised the plan, and gave it to Moses, with particular directions as to its size and form, and the materials to be used, and specified every article of FURNITURE which was to be in it. He presented before Moses a miniature model of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern showed him in the mount. Moses wrote all the directions in a book, and read them to the most influential of the people. {4aSG 5.1 1864}

Then the LORD required the people to bring a freewill offering to make him a SANCTUARY that he might dwell among them. “And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses. And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD’S OFFERING to the work of the TABERNACLE of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the HOLY GARMENTS. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing-hearted, and brought bracelets, and ear-rings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold, and every man that offered, offered an offering of gold unto the LORD.” {4aSG 5.2 1864}

Great and expensive preparations were necessary. Precious and costly materials must be collected. But the LORD accepted only the free-will offerings. Devotion to the work of GOD, and sacrifice from the heart, were first required in preparing a place for GOD. And while the building of the SANCTUARY was going on, and the people were bringing their offerings unto Moses, and he presenting them to the workmen, all the wise men who wrought in the work examined the gifts, and decided that the people had brought enough, and even more than they could use. And Moses proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the SANCTUARY. So the people were restrained from bringing.” {4aSG 5.3 1864}

The repeated murmurings of the Israelites, and the visitations of GOD’S WRATH because of their transgressions, are recorded in sacred history for the benefit of GOD’S people who should afterward live upon the earth; but more especially to prove a warning to those who should live near the close of time. Also their acts of devotion, their energy, and liberality, in bringing their free-will offerings to Moses, are recorded for the benefit of the people of GOD. Their example in preparing material for the TABERNACLE so cheerfully, is an example for all who truly love the WORSHIP OF GOD. Those who prize the blessing of GOD’S sacred presence, when preparing a building that he may meet with them, should manifest greater interest and zeal in the sacred work in proportion as they value their heavenly blessings higher than their earthly comforts. They should realize that they are preparing a house for GOD. {4aSG 6.1 1864}

Many will expend much to erect comfortable and tasty buildings for themselves; but when they would prepare a place that they may receive the presence of the high and exalted One, they manifest a wonderful indifference, and have no particular interest as to the convenience, arrangement and workmanship. Their offerings are not given cheerfully from the heart; but are bestowed grudgingly, and they are continually studying in what manner the sacred building can be made to cost the least, and answer the purpose as a house of worship. Some manifest more interest in building their barns, wherein to keep their cattle, than they do in building a place for the WORSHIP OF GOD. Such value sacred privileges just in that proportion which their works show. And their prosperity and SPIRITUAL strength will be just according to their works. GOD will not cause his blessing to rest upon those who have so little estimate of the value of divine things. Unwilling and stinted offerings are not accepted of GOD. Those who manifest that earnestness to bring to the LORD acceptable offerings, of the very best they have, willingly, as the children of Israel brought their presents to Moses, will be blessed in that proportion that they have estimated the value of divine things. {4aSG 6.2 1864}

It is of some consequence that a building prepared expressly for GOD to meet with his people, should be arranged with care, made comfortable, neat and convenient; for it is to be dedicated to GOD, and presented to him, and he is to be entreated to abide in that house, and make it sacred by his holy presence. Enough should be willingly given to the LORD, to liberally accomplish the work, and then the workmen be able to say, Bring no more offerings. A house built for GOD never should be left in debt, for GOD would be dishonored. He is acquainted with every heart, and he will reward every one who freely gives back to him, when he requires, that which he has given them. If they withhold that which belongs to GOD, he will afflict them in their families, and cause decrease in their possessions, just according to their disposition to rob him. {4aSG 7.1 1864}

After the building of the TABERNACLE was completed, Moses examined all the work, and compared it with the pattern, and directions he had received of GOD, and he saw that every part of it agreed with the pattern, and he blessed the people. GOD gave a pattern of the ARK to Moses with special directions how to make it. The ARK was made to contain the TABLES OF STONE, on which GOD ENGRAVED, WITH HIS OWN FINGER, THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. It was in form like a chest, and was overlaid and inlaid with pure gold. It was ornamented with crowns of gold round about the top. The cover of this SACRED CHEST was the MERCY SEAT made of solid gold. On each end of the MERCY SEAT was fixed a cherub of pure solid gold. Their faces were turned toward each other, and were looking reverentially downward toward the MERCY SEAT, which represents all the heavenly angels looking with interest and reverence to the LAW OF GOD deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. These cherubs had wings. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other wing of each angel covered their forms. The ARK of the earthly SANCTUARY was the pattern of the true ARK in Heaven. There, beside the heavenly ARK, stand living angels, at either end of the ARK, with each, one wing overshadowing the MERCY SEAT, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility. {4aSG 7.2 1864}

In the earthly ARK Moses was required to place the TABLES OF STONE. These were called the TABLES OF THE TESTIMONY, and the ARK was called the ARK OF THE TESTIMONY, because they contained GOD’S TESTIMONY in the TEN COMMANDMENTS. The TABERNACLE was composed of TWO APARTMENTS, separated by a CURTAIN, or VEIL. {4aSG 8.1 1864}

All the FURNITURE of the TABERNACLE was made of solid gold, or plated with gold. The CURTAINS of the TABERNACLE were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged, and in these CURTAINS were wrought, with threads of gold and silver, CHERUBIMS, which were to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and who are ministering angels to the saints upon the earth. {4aSG 8.2 1864}

Within the SECOND VEIL was placed the ARK of the testimony, and the beautiful and rich CURTAIN was drawn before the SACRED ARK. This CURTAIN did not reach to the top of the building. The GLORY OF GOD, which was above the MERCY SEAT, could be seen from BOTH APARTMENTS, but in a much less degree from the FIRST APARTMENT. Directly before the ARK, but separated by the CURTAIN, was the GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE. The fire upon this ALTAR was kindled by the LORD himself, and was sacredly cherished by feeding it with holy INCENSE, which filled the SANCTUARY with its fragrant cloud, day and night. Its fragrance extended for miles around the TABERNACLE. When the priest offered the INCENSE before the LORD, he looked to the MERCY SEAT. Although he could not see it, he knew it was there, and as the INCENSE arose like a cloud, the glory of the LORD descended upon the MERCY SEAT, and filled the MOST HOLY PLACE, and was visible in the HOLY PLACE, and the glory often so filled BOTH APARTMENTS that the priest was unable to officiate, and was obliged to stand at the door of the TABERNACLE. The priest in the HOLY PLACE, directing his prayer by faith to the MERCY SEAT, which he could not see, represents the people of GOD directing their prayers to CHRIST before the MERCY SEAT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They cannot behold their MEDIATOR with the natural eye, but with the eye of faith they see CHRIST before the MERCY SEAT, and direct their prayers to him, and with assurance claim the benefits of his MEDIATION. {4aSG 8.3 1864}

These SACRED APARTMENTS had no windows to give light. The candlestick was made of purest gold, and was kept burning night and day, and gave light to BOTH APARTMENTS. The light of the lamps upon the CANDLESTICK reflected upon the boards plated with gold, at the sides of the building, and upon the sacred FURNITURE, and upon the CURTAINS of beautiful colors with CHERUBIMS wrought with threads of gold and silver, which appearance was glorious beyond description. No language can describe the beauty and loveliness, and sacred glory, which these APARTMENTS presented. The gold in the SANCTUARY reflected the colors of the CURTAINS, which appeared like the different colors of the rainbow. {4aSG 9.1 1864}

Only once a year could the high priest enter into the MOST HOLY PLACE, after the most careful and solemn preparation. No mortal eye but that of the high priest could look upon the sacred grandeur of that APARTMENT, because it was the especial dwelling-place of GOD’S visible glory. The high priest always entered it with trembling, while the people waited his return with solemn silence. Their earnest desires were to GOD for his blessing. Before the MERCY SEAT GOD conversed with the high priest. If he remained an unusual time in the MOST HOLY, the people were often terrified, fearing that because of their sins, or some sin of the priest, the glory of the LORD had slain him. But when the sound of the tinkling of the bells upon his garments was heard, they were greatly relieved. He then came forth and blessed the people. {4aSG 9.2 1864} {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 15-16}

After the work of the TABERNACLE was finished, “a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the TABERNACLE. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the TABERNACLE. And when the cloud was taken up from over the TABERNACLE, the children of Israel went onward in all their journeys. But if the cloud was not taken up, then they journeyed not till the day that it was taken up. For the cloud of the LORD was upon the TABERNACLE by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.” The TABERNACLE was constructed so as to be taken to pieces, and borne with them in all their journeyings. {4aSG 10.1 1864}

The LORD directed the Israelites in all their travels through the wilderness. When it was for the good of the people, and the GLORY OF GOD, that they should pitch their tents in a certain place, and there abide, GOD signified his will to them by the pillar of cloud resting low directly over the TABERNACLE. And there it remained until GOD would have them journey again. Then the cloud of glory was lifted up high above the TABERNACLE, and then they journeyed again. In all their journeyings they observed perfect order. Every tribe bore a standard, with the sign of their father’s house upon it, and every tribe was commanded to pitch by their own standard. And when they traveled, the different tribes marched in order, every tribe under their own standard. When they rested from their journeyings, the TABERNACLE was erected, and then the different tribes pitched their tents in order, in just such a position as GOD commanded, around the TABERNACLE, at a distance from it. {4aSG 10.2 1864}

When the people journeyed, the ARK OF THE COVENANT was borne before them. “And the cloud of the LORD was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp. And it came to pass, when the ARK set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered, and let them that hate thee flee before thee. And when it rested, he said, Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel.” {4aSG 11.1 1864}

The sons of Aaron did not take the sacred fire from the ALTAR, which the LORD himself had kindled, and which he commanded the priests to use when they offered INCENSE before him. They took common fire and put in their CENSERS, and put INCENSE thereon. This was a transgression of GOD’S express command, and his judgment speedily followed. Aaron’s sons, who officiated in holy things, would not have thus transgressed if they had not indulged freely in the use of wine, and were partially intoxicated. They gratified the appetite, which debased their faculties, and disqualified them for their sacred office. Their intellects were beclouded, so that they did not have a realizing sense of the difference between the sacredness of the fire which GOD let fall from Heaven, and was kept burning continually upon the ALTAR, and the common fire, which he had said they should not use. If they had had the full and clear use of their reasoning faculties they would have recoiled with horror at the presumptuous transgression of GOD’S positive commands. They had been especially favored of GOD in being of the number of the elders who witnessed the GLORY OF GOD in the mount. They understood that the most careful self-examination and sanctification was required on their part before presenting themselves in the SANCTUARY, where GOD’S PRESENCE was manifested. {4aSG 11.3 1864}

The GLORY OF GOD hallowed the SANCTUARY, and for this reason the priests never entered the place sanctified by GOD’S PRESENCE with shoes upon their feet. Particles of dust might cleave to their shoes, which would desecrate the SANCTUARY. Therefore, the priests were required to leave their shoes in the court, before entering the SANCTUARY. In the court, beside the door of the TABERNACLE, stood the BRAZEN LAVER, wherein the priests washed their hands and their feet before entering the TABERNACLE, that all impurity might be removed, “that they die not.” All who officiated in the SANCTUARY were required of GOD to make special preparations before entering where GOD’S glory was revealed. {4aSG 62.1 1864}

David solemnly charges his SON to adhere strictly to the LAW OF GOD, and to keep all HIS STATUTES. He relates to Solomon the word of the LORD, spoken unto him through his prophets. “Moreover, I will establish his kingdom forever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day. Now, therefore, in the sight of all Israel, the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our GOD, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your GOD, that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you forever. And thou, Solomon, my SON, know thou the GOD of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind; for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts. If thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever. Take heed now, for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the SANCTUARY. Be strong, and do it.” {4aSG 95.1 1864}

A most splendid SANCTUARY had been made, according to the pattern showed to Moses in the mount, and afterward presented by the LORD to David. The earthly SANCTUARY was made like the heavenly. In addition to the CHERUBIM on the top of the ARK, Solomon made two other angels of larger size, standing at each end of the ARK, representing the heavenly angels always guarding the LAW OF GOD. It is impossible to describe the beauty and splendor of this TABERNACLE. There, as in the TABERNACLE, the SACRED ARK was borne in solemn, reverential order, and set in its place beneath the wings of the two stately CHERUBIM that stood upon the floor. {4aSG 113.3 1864}

The priests, who ministered in sacred things, were commanded to wash their feet and their hands before entering the TABERNACLE in the presence of GOD to importune for Israel, that they might not desecrate the SANCTUARY. If the priests had entered the SANCTUARY with their mouths polluted with tobacco, they would have shared the fate of Nadab and Abihu. And yet professed Christians bow before GOD in their families to pray with their mouths defiled with the filth of tobacco. They go to the house which they have dedicated to GOD, professing to worship him, with a stupefying quid of tobacco in their mouths, and the high-colored saliva staining their lips and chin, and their foul breath polluting the atmosphere. They leave their poisonous filth either upon the floor, or in receptacles prepared for the purpose. This is the offering they present to GOD. Instead of the cloud of fragrant INCENSE filling the house as in the case of the ancient TABERNACLE, it is filled with the sickening, polluted odor of ejected tobacco spittle and quids, and the air breathed by the congregation is poisoned. {4aSG 127.1 1864}

GOD instructed Noah how to make that immense ARK, for the saving of himself and his family. He also instructed Moses how to make the TABERNACLE, and the embroidery, and skillful work which was to adorn the SANCTUARY. The women wrought, with great ingenuity the embroidery of silver and gold. Skillful men were not wanting to accomplish the work of making the ARK, the TABERNACLE, and the vessels of solid gold. {4aSG 154.3 1864}

I saw that the LORD yet has something to do with the laws of the land. While JESUS is in the SANCTUARY, GOD’S restraining spirit is felt by rulers and people. But Satan controls to a great extent the great mass in the world, and were it not for the laws of the land, we should experience great suffering. It was shown me that it was no violation of GOD’S WORD, when it is actually necessary, for his children, when called upon to testify in a lawful manner, to solemnly take GOD to witness that what they say is the truth, and nothing but the truth. {4bSG 43.1 1864}

When JESUS ceases to plead for man, the cases of all are decided forever. This is the time of reckoning with his servants. Those who have neglected the preparation of purity and holiness, fitting them to be waiting ones to welcome their LORD, their sun sets in gloom and darkness, and rises not again. Probation closes. CHRIST’S intercessions cease in Heaven, and it is finally sudden upon all, and those who have neglected the purifying of their souls by obeying the truth, are found sleeping. They became weary of waiting and watching. They became indifferent in regard to the coming of their MASTER. They longed not for his appearing and thought there was no need of such continued, persevering watching. They had been disappointed in their expectations, and might be again. They concluded there was time enough yet to arouse. They would be sure and not lose the opportunity of securing an earthly treasure. It would be safe to get all of this world they could. And in securing this object, they lost all anxiety and interest in the appearing of the MASTER. They became indifferent and careless, as though his coming was yet in the distance. While their interest was buried up in their worldly gains, the work closed in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and they were unprepared. If they had only known that the work of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY would close so soon, how differently would they have conducted! How earnestly would they have watched! The MASTER anticipated all this, and gave them timely warning in the command to watch. He distinctly states the suddenness of his coming. He does not measure the time, lest we shall neglect a momentary preparation, and in our indolence look ahead to the time when we think he will come, and defer the preparation. “Watch ye therefore; for ye know not.” Yet this uncertainty, and the suddenness at last, foretold, fails to quicken our watchfulness, and arouse us from stupidity to earnest wakefulness, for our expected MASTER. Those not found waiting and watching, are finally surprised in their unfaithfulness. The MASTER has come, and instead of their being ready to open unto him immediately, they are locked in a worldly slumber, and are lost at last. {PH098 13.2 1868}

GOD designs his people shall fix their eyes heavenward looking for the glorious appearing of our LORD and SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST. While the attention of worldlings is turned to the various enterprises, ours should be to the Heavens, our faith reaching farther and farther into the glorious mysteries of heavenly treasures, drawing the precious, divine rays of light from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, to shine in our hearts, as it shineth in the face of JESUS CHRIST. The scoffers mock the waiting, watching ones, and inquire, “Where is the promise of his coming? You have been disappointed. Engage now with us, and you will prosper in worldly things. Get gain, get money, and be honored of the world.” The waiting ones are looking upward and answer, “We are watching.” They turn from earthly pleasure, and from worldly fame, and from the deceitfulness of riches, and show themselves to be watching. In watching they become strong. They overcome sloth and selfishness, and love of ease. Affliction’s fire kindles upon them, and the waiting time seems long. They grieve sometimes, and faith falters; but they rally again, overcome their fears and doubts, and while their eyes are directed heavenward, say to their adversaries, “I am watching, I am waiting the return of my LORD.” I will glory in tribulation, in affliction, in necessities. {PH098 18.2 1868}

JESUS has left us word: “Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the MASTER of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” We are waiting and watching for the return of the MASTER, who is to bring the morning, lest coming suddenly He find us sleeping. What time is here referred to? Not to the revelation of CHRIST in the clouds of heaven to find a people asleep. No; but to His return from His ministration in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, when He lays off His priestly attire and clothes Himself with garments of vengeance, and when the mandate goes forth: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” {2T 190.1 1868-1871}

If such had only known that the work of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY would close so soon, how differently would they have conducted themselves, how earnestly would they have watched! The MASTER, anticipating all this, gives them timely warning in the command to watch. He distinctly states the suddenness of His coming. He does not measure the time, lest we shall neglect a momentary preparation, and in our indolence look ahead to the time when we think He will come, and defer the preparation. “Watch ye therefore: for ye know not.” Yet this foretold uncertainty, and suddenness at last, fails to rouse us from stupidity to earnest wakefulness, and to quicken our watchfulness for our expected MASTER. Those not found waiting and watching are finally surprised in their unfaithfulness. The MASTER comes, and instead of their being ready to open unto Him immediately, they are locked in worldly slumber, and are lost at last. {2T 191.2 1868-1871}

Chapter XXI. – The SANCTUARY.

It is of some consequence that a building prepared expressly for GOD to meet with his people, should be arranged with care–made comfortable, neat, and convenient; for it is to be dedicated to GOD, and presented to him, and he is to be entreated to abide in that house, and make it sacred by his holy presence. Enough should be willingly given to the LORD, to liberally accomplish the work, and then the workmen be able to say, Bring no more offerings. A house built for GOD never should be left in debt, for GOD would be dishonored. He is acquainted with every heart, and he will reward every one who freely gives back to him, when he requires, that which he has given them. If they withhold that which belongs to GOD, he will afflict them in their families, and cause decrease in their possessions, just according to their disposition to rob him. {1SP 271.1 1870}

These SACRED APARTMENTS had no windows to admit light. The candlestick was made of purest gold, and was kept burning night and day, and gave light to BOTH APARTMENTS. The light of the lamps upon the CANDLESTICK reflected upon the boards plated with gold, at the sides of the building, and upon the SACRED FURNITURE, and upon the CURTAINS of beautiful colors with CHERUBIMS wrought with threads of gold and silver, which appearance was glorious beyond description. No language can describe the beauty and loveliness, and sacred glory, which these APARTMENTS presented. The gold in the SANCTUARY reflected the colors of the CURTAINS, which appeared like the different colors of the rainbow. {1SP 274.1 1870}

CHRIST is the living Vine and if you are branches of that Vine, the life nourishment which flows through it will nourish you, that you will not be barren or unfruitful. You have, as a family and as individuals, professedly connected yourselves with the service of CHRIST; and yet you are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. All of you need to have an entire transformation before you can do those things which unselfish, devoted Christians should do. Nothing but a thorough conversion can give you a correct sense of your defects of character. You all have the spirit and love of the world to a great extent. Says the apostle John: “If any man love the world, the love of the FATHER is not in him.” Your selfish spirit narrows and dwarfs your minds to your own interests. You need pure and undefiled religion. The simplicity of the truth will lead you to feel a sympathy for others’ woes. There are those who need your sympathy and love. To exercise these traits of character is a part of the life-work which CHRIST has given us all to do. {3T 522.1 1872-1875}

The LORD pronounced, by the mouth of Moses, blessings upon the obedient, and curses upon the disobedient. “Ye shall make you no idols,” was the command of GOD. “Ye shall keep my SABBATHS, and reverence MY SANCTUARY. I am the LORD. If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.” Many and great blessings are enumerated, which GOD would bestow; and then, above all the other blessings, he promised, “I will set my TABERNACLE among you; and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you, and will be your GOD, and ye shall be my people.” “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.” {RH, January 14, 1873 par. 11}

But the general slaughter of all those who do not thus see the wide contrast between sin and righteousness, and do not feel as those do who stand in the counsel of GOD and receive the mark, is described in the order to the five men with slaughter weapons: “Go ye after him through the city, and smite; let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity; slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women; but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY.” {RH, September 23, 1873 par. 6}

The life of CHRIST was humble, free from affectation or display. He lived mostly in the open air, drinking the pure water of the mountain streams. He passed up and down the steep mountain paths to his life of toil, and to his humble home, for rest and refreshment. He was delighted with the happy songsters, who caroled forth, in their varied notes, praise to their CREATOR. The birds, the natural flowers that decked the fields with their glowing beauty, the majestic trees and lofty mountains, the ragged rocks and perpetual hills, all had special charms for him. The sun, moon, and stars, the reflecting glory of the evening sunset, were also objects of his contemplation. He gathered knowledge from HIS HEAVENLY FATHER’S library of animate and inanimate nature. THE OLIVE GROVES WERE HIS SANCTUARY FOR PRAYER. There, secluded from every human eye, he communed with HIS HEAVENLY FATHER. His moral powers were strengthened by his meditation and communion with GOD. {YI, September 1, 1873 par. 8}

It was on my first journey east to relate my visions that the precious light in regard to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY was opened before me and I was shown the open and SHUT DOOR. We believed that the LORD was soon to come in the clouds of heaven. I was shown that there was a great work to be done in the world for those who had not had the light and rejected it. Our brethren could not understand this with our faith in the immediate appearing of CHRIST. Some accused me of saying, “My LORD delayeth His coming,” especially the fanatical ones. I saw that in 1844 GOD had opened a door and no man could shut it, and shut a door and no man could open it. Those who rejected the light which was brought to the world by the message of the second angel went into darkness and how great was that darkness. {Lt2-1874}

GOD is weighing our characters, our conduct, and our motives, in the balances of the SANCTUARY. It will be a fearful thing to be pronounced wanting in love and obedience by our REDEEMER, who died upon the cross to draw our hearts unto him. GOD has bestowed upon us great and precious gifts. He has given us light and a knowledge of his will that we need not err or walk in darkness. To be weighed in the balance and found wanting in the day of final settlement and rewards will be a fearful thing, a terrible mistake which can never be corrected. Shall the book of GOD be searched in vain for your names, young friends? {PH013 15.1 1874}

In the wilderness of temptation CHRIST overcame on man’s behalf on the point of appetite. His example of self-denial, and self-control, when suffering the gnawing pangs of hunger, is a rebuke to the Christian world for their dissipation and gluttony. There is at this time nine times as much money expended for the gratification of appetite, and to indulge foolish and hurtful lusts, as there is given to advance the gospel of CHRIST. Were Peter upon the earth now, he would exhort the professed followers of CHRIST to abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul. And Paul would call upon the churches in general to CLEANSE themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of GOD. And CHRIST would drive from the temple those who are defiled by the use of tobacco, polluting the SANCTUARY of GOD by their tobacconized breaths. He would say to these worshipers, as he did to the Jews, “My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” We would say to such, your unholy offerings of ejected quids of tobacco defile the temple, and are abhorred of GOD. Your worship is not acceptable, for your bodies which should be the temple for the HOLY GHOST are defiled. You also rob the treasury of GOD of thousands of dollars through the indulgence of unnatural appetite. {RH, September 8, 1874 par. 7}

In the balances of the SANCTUARY, the gifts of the poor, made from love to CHRIST, are not estimated according to the amount given, but according to the love which prompts the sacrifice. The promises of JESUS will as surely be realized by the liberal poor man, who has but little to offer, but who gives that little freely, as by the wealthy man who gives of his abundance. The poor man makes a sacrifice of his little which he really feels. He really denies himself of some things that he needs for his own comfort, while the wealthy man gives of his abundance, and feels no want, and denies himself nothing that he really needs. Therefore, there is a sacredness in the poor man’s offering that is not found in the rich man’s gift; for the rich give of their abundance. GOD’S providence has arranged the entire plan of systematic benevolence for the benefit of man. His providence never stands still. If GOD’S servants follow his opening providence all will be active workers. {RH, December 15, 1874 par. 8}

I entreat of you to come out of this position which you have voluntarily taken. Die to self. I warn you not to twist the Testimonies to make out a case in order to justify your present course, for excuses will not [aveil] in the balances of the SANCTUARY. You are deceived, deluded by the enemy. You are on the wrong track. But if you fortify yourself and take a position that you are excusable to do as you have done, you gather darkness about your soul, please the enemy, and grieve the SPIRIT OF GOD. You may come to the light if you will, but it is at your own option whether you walk in the light or wander longer in darkness. You are not right with GOD. How solemn is the period in which we live! Oh, how important that we be hid in GOD, sanctified and elevated and thoroughly furnished unto all good works! {Lt16-1875}

Every case passes in review before CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY before He ceases to plead for man. Every name is repeated by the recording angel. Their moral worth is estimated, their acts and deeds are weighed in an even balance and they are rewarded according to their works. Those who served the world and who were ashamed of the cross of CHRIST, who studied their own convenience rather than the will of GOD, their names are read by the recording angel and they are pronounced unworthy of CHRIST’S protection and love, and their life is lost beyond redemption. The Prince of Life is ashamed of them and disowns them before His FATHER and His holy angels. {Ms7-1875}

The LORD sent for the men to preach the message He should give them that CHRIST would appear the second time to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity in 1844. The time passed. The event anticipated did not take place. Yet the message of warning was of GOD, to test and prove the people of the world who heard the note of warning. The mistake was in the event. They were not in error in preaching time. GOD hid from them the event that was to take place. They thought CHRIST would come to this earth to purify the world by fire. They regarded the earth as the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the 1335 [2300?] days. After the passing of the time, light shone more clearly upon the prophecies that the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED was in heaven. CHRIST entered the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY upon the great antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT to CLEANSE it from the sins of the people by virtue of His own blood. {Ms6-1876}

I was shown that although the event so solemnly proclaimed did not occur, as in the case of Jonah, the message was none the less of GOD, and accomplished the purpose that he designed it should. Subsequent light upon the prophecies revealed the event which did take place, in the HIGH PRIEST entering the MOST HOLY PLACE of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN to finish the ATONEMENT for the sins of man. Nevertheless GOD willed for a wise purpose that his servants should proclaim the approaching end of time. {ST, May 4, 1876 par. 13}

If excessive hunger excused David for violating even the holiness of the SANCTUARY, and made his act guiltless, how much more excusable was the simple act of the disciples in plucking the grain and eating it upon the SABBATH day. JESUS would teach his disciples and his enemies that the SERVICE OF GOD was first of all; and, if fatigue and hunger attended the work, it was right to satisfy the wants of humanity, even upon the SABBATH day. That holy institution was not given to interfere with the needs of our being, bringing pain and discomfort, instead of blessing. “The SABBATH was made for man,” to give him rest and peace, and remind him of the work of his CREATOR, not to be a grievous burden. {ST, November 30, 1876 par. 9}

Thus CHRIST, in His own spotless righteousness, after shedding His precious blood, enters into the HOLY PLACE to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. And there the crimson current is brought into the service of reconciling GOD to man. Some may look upon this slaying of the heifer as a meaningless ceremony, but it was done by the command of GOD and bears a deep significance that has not lost its application to the present time. {4T 122.1 1876-1881}

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” It is not the magnitude of the matter that makes it fair or unfair. As a man deals with his fellow men, so will he deal with GOD. He that is unfaithful in the mammon of unrighteousness, will never be entrusted with the true riches. The children of GOD should not fail to remember that in all their business transactions they are being proved, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. {4T 311.1 1876-1881}

Ambassadors for CHRIST have a solemn and important work, which rests upon some altogether too lightly. While CHRIST is the minister in the SANCTUARY above, He is also, through His delegates, the minister of His church on earth. He speaks to the people through chosen men, and carries forward His work through them, as when in the days of His humiliation He moved visibly upon the earth. Although centuries have passed, the lapse of time has not changed His parting promise to His disciples: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” From CHRIST’S ascension to the present day, men ordained of GOD, deriving their authority from Him, have become teachers of the faith. CHRIST, the TRUE SHEPHERD, superintends His work through the instrumentality of these undershepherds. Thus the position of those who labor in word and doctrine becomes very important. In CHRIST’S stead they beseech the people to be reconciled to GOD. {4T 393.1 1876-1881}

The work of the minister is but commenced when the truth is opened to the understanding of the people. CHRIST is our MEDIATOR and officiating HIGH PRIEST in the presence of the FATHER. He was shown to John as a LAMB that had been slain, as in the very act of pouring out His blood in the sinner’s behalf. When the LAW OF GOD is set before the sinner, showing him the depth of his sins, he should then be pointed to the LAMB OF GOD, that taketh away the sin of the world. He should be taught repentance toward GOD and faith toward our LORD JESUS CHRIST. Thus will the labor of CHRIST’S representative be in harmony with His work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {4T 395.2 1876-1881}

The business world does not lie outside the limits of GOD’S government. Christianity is not to be merely paraded on the SABBATH and displayed in the SANCTUARY; it is for every day in the week and for every place. Its claims must be recognized and obeyed in the workshop, at home, and in business transactions with brethren and with the world. With many, an absorbing worldliness eclipses the true sense of Christian obligation. The religion of CHRIST will have such an influence upon the heart that it will control the life. Men possessing the genuine article of true religion will in all their business transactions show as clear a perception of right as when offering their supplications at the THRONE OF GRACE. The life, with all its capabilities, belongs to GOD, and should be used to promote His glory, instead of being perverted to the service of Satan in defrauding our fellow men. {4T 494.2 1876-1881}

The father who is the “house band” of the family will bind his children to the THRONE of GOD by living faith. Distrusting his own strength, he hangs his helpless soul on JESUS and takes hold of the strength of the MOST HIGH. Brethren, pray at home, in your family, night and morning; pray earnestly in your closet; and while engaged in your daily labor, lift up the soul to GOD in prayer. It was thus that Enoch walked with GOD. The silent, fervent prayer of the soul will rise like holy INCENSE to the THRONE OF GRACE and will be as acceptable to GOD as if offered in the SANCTUARY. To all who thus seek Him, CHRIST becomes a present help in time of need. They will be strong in the day of trial. {4T 616.1 1876-1881}

JESUS frequently dismissed them to visit their homes and rest; but he gently though firmly resisted all their entreaties that he should himself rest. At night he found the seasons of prayer for which he could not claim time during the day. While the world he had come to save was wrapped in slumber, the REDEEMER, in the SANCTUARY of the mountains, would intercede for man with the FATHER. Often he spent entire nights in prayer and meditation, going back in the morning to his active work. {2SP 183.1 1877}

If you go on as you have done, in self-gratification, chasing after your own pleasure, indulging in the dissipations of the world, you lose not only this world, but the next. And remember the day of reckoning is not far distant, when the MASTER will say, “Young man, give an account of thy stewardship.” You will then be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. All your words, your acts, and even your motives will pass the trying test of Him who knows the heart of man. The day is just upon us when the spirit which governed the life is to be tested. {Lt41-1877}

In prophetic vision Isaiah was shown that this stone was a symbol of the SAVIOUR of the world. He says: “Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” Carried down in prophetic vision to the first advent, the prophet is shown that CHRIST is to bear trials and tests of which the treatment of the chief corner-stone in the temple of Solomon is a symbol: “Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner-stone, a sure foundation; he that believeth shall not make haste.” {3SP 37.2 1878}

He brought his hearers down through the types and shadows of the ceremonial law to CHRIST,–to his crucifixion, his priesthood, and the SANCTUARY of his ministry,–the great object that had cast its shadow backward into the Jewish age. He, as the MESSIAH, was the Antitype of all the sacrificial offerings. The apostle showed that according to the prophecies and the universal expectation of the Jews, the MESSIAH would be of the lineage of Abraham and David. He then traced his descent from the great patriarch Abraham, through the royal psalmist. He proved from SCRIPTURE what were to have been the character and works of the promised MESSIAH, and also his reception and treatment on earth, as testified by the HOLY prophets. He then showed that these predictions also had been fulfilled in the life, ministry, and death of JESUS, and hence that he was indeed the world’s REDEEMER. {3SP 409.3 1878}

Belshazzar was pronounced wanting. GOD weighed his character in the balances of His SANCTUARY; He weighed his motives, character, life, and soul, and pronounced him wanting; and thus his record will stand when the books of heaven are opened and the eye of the great Judge searches the pages to see whose names are written there. {Lt40a-1878}

With what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged.” We each have an individual case pending at the court of heaven. Your character is being weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY, and it should be your earnest desire to walk humbly before GOD, being distrustful of yourself, jealous of yourself lest you fail to let your light shine forth to others, jealous lest you fail of the GRACE OF GOD and lose everything that is of value. All dissension, all faultfinding and differences should be put away, with all evil speaking and bitterness; and kindness, love, compassion for one another should be cherished, that the prayer of CHRIST may be answered that His disciples may be one as He was one with the FATHER, “that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” {Lt51a-1878}

Satan urges this class forward, [page torn here] … [so that he] can then use them to accomplish his purposes better than before their connection with the church. They are, Satan knows, his best working agents, while they are unchanged in heart and life, and their works are in such marked contrast to their profession, that they are a stumbling block to unbelievers and a great trial to believers. Thus the archenemy closes the door to scores of souls, whose life and character if they were consecrated to do GOD service would do honor to the cause if they would yield to the claims of GOD. What an account will those have to give in the day of final reckoning, who profess to be keeping the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, while their lives contradict their profession, for they bear no precious fruit. They are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. {Ms1-1878}

These witnesses of GOD should be of such a character as to show that they have truth of vital importance, and that those connected with them have an important work to do. The buildings are none too good. They should not be of an inferior order. The SANCTUARY built for GOD, to invite the presence of the MOST HIGH, is none too good. It is GOD’S faithful witness every SABBATH, carrying the mind back to the creation. When the LORD laid the foundation of the earth, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of GOD shouted for joy, He laid the foundation for His SABBATH. This is GOD’S memorial, never to be back in the background, out of sight. {Ms6-1878}

It is a most solemn duty to keep the spirit pure, as a SANCTUARY for the MOST HIGH GOD. Heart and mind and soul are to be devoted to the SERVICE OF GOD and the good of our fellow men. It is a very small offering, at best, that we can make to our HEAVENLY FATHER. In view of our accountability to GOD, we are all under the strongest obligation to bring our appetites and passions under the control of the intelligent will. Taste has done more to pervert the understanding and becloud the SPIRITUAL sky than everything else besides. Satan benumbs the intellect of many through indulgence of appetite, and then he makes these intemperate ones special objects of temptation, to go still further from the path of obedience and holiness. Those who have been entrusted with valuable talents will miss ETERNAL life unless they shall see the necessity of daily self-denial, of what it means to be an overcomer. {Ms6-1878}

All night he must be alone in the mountain SANCTUARY with his GOD. All night he spent in prayer, pouring out his soul with strong crying and tears, not because he had sins to confess, or to bring remorse to his heart, not because he had troubles of his own to be relieved. A world in the darkness of error is weighing upon his soul, and while it sleeps in security he prays that it may not perish in its sin and impenitence. Thus passed the night, and when nature’s choristers tuned their songs of praise in the early morning, CHRIST was prepared for the day of active, earnest work. {ST, December 11, 1879 par. 11}

I am not seeking for honor or distinction, but to be true and faithful at my post of duty anywhere. Sometimes I fear I am selfish. I long for rest so much and there is so much heartache, so much perplexity to know just what to do when moral power among our own people seems so weak. And I see that they need to learn the very first principles, the ABCs of practical Godliness. I fear, greatly fear, that very many will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. {Lt28-1880}

Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” This forbids the taking advantage of our fellowmen in order to advantage ourselves. We are forbidden to wrong our neighbor in anything. We should not view the matter from the worldling’s standpoint. To deal with our fellow-men, in every instance, just as we would wish them to deal with us, is a rule we should apply to ourselves. GOD’S LAWS are to be obeyed to the letter. In all our intercourse and dealing with our fellow-men, whether believers, or unbelievers, this rule is to be applied: Love thy neighbor as thyself. Many who profess to be Christians will not bear the measurement of GOD on this point; but will be found wanting when weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the LORD, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the LORD ALMIGHTY.” What a promise is this. We should not lose sight of the fact that this promise is based upon obedience to a specific command. GOD calls upon all to separate from the world, and not to follow its practices or be conformed to it. “But be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of GOD.” {RH, March 18, 1880 par. 13}

On the morning of the third day all the children of Israel obeyed the command of GOD through Moses and drew near the mount with fear and solemnity. Awful and grand was the place of GOD’S SANCTUARY, holy and elevated the pulpit from which he was about to deliver his memorable sermon. The principles of the LAW OF GOD did not originate at Sinai; but by a long, degrading servitude in Egypt they had become confused in the minds of all Israel. The LORD had now brought them out into this place, grand with solitude, that he might more clearly impress upon their minds the nature of his requirements by speaking HIS LAW with an audible voice. {ST, May 6, 1880 par. 1}

The LORD then gave Moses directions for the building of a SANCTUARY, in which the divine presence would be specially manifested; he also gave further instructions in regard to the SABBATH. Finally there was delivered to Moses, by the hand of DIVINE MAJESTY, the TESTIMONY, or TEN COMMANDMENTS, engraven on TWO TABLES OF STONE. {ST, May 13, 1880 par. 5}

The TABERNACLE here mentioned was a temporary tent arranged for the WORSHIP OF GOD. The SANCTUARY, the pattern of which GOD gave to Moses, had not yet been built. {ST, June 3, 1880 par. 3}

June 24, 1880 The SANCTUARY.

The TABERNACLE constructed by the Hebrews in the wilderness was made according to the divine command. Men called of GOD for this purpose were endowed by him with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Yet neither Moses nor these workmen were left to plan the form and workmanship of the building. GOD himself devised and gave to Moses the plan of that sacred structure, with particular directions as to its size and form, the materials to be used, and every article of FURNITURE which it was to contain. He presented before Moses a miniature model of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern showed him in the mount. And Moses wrote all the directions in a book, and read them to the most influential of the people. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 1}

And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goat’s hair, and red skins of rams, and badger’s skins, brought them. Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD’S offering; and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought it. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 3}

And all the women that were wise-hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun, both of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, and of fine linen. And all the women whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goat’s hair. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 4}

And the rulers brought onyx stones and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the BRESTPLATE; and spice, and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet INCENSE.” {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 5}

The TABERNACLE was so constructed that it could be taken apart and borne with the Israelites in all their journeyings. Yet it was a structure of extraordinary magnificence. The walls consisted of upright boards heavily plated with purest gold. The sacred building was composed of TWO APARTMENTS, separated by a rich and beautiful CURTAIN, or VEIL. A similar VEIL closed the entrance of the FIRST APARTMENT. These VEILS, with the CURTAIN which formed the ceiling of the TABERNACLE, were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged; while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were CHERUBIM, to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and who are ministering angels to the saints upon the earth. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 10}

In the INNER APARTMENT was the ARK, which was the most sacred object connected with that system of worship. It was a chest of precious wood, overlaid within and without with pure gold, and having a crown of gold about the top. In the ARK were placed the TABLES OF STONE upon which GOD HAD ENGRAVED WITH HIS OWN FINGER THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. It was made expressly for this purpose, and hence was called the ARK OF THE COVENANT, and the ARK OF THE TESTAMENT, since the TEN COMMANDMENTS were GOD’S COVENANT, and the basis of the covenant made between GOD and Israel. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 11}

The cover of this SACRED CHEST was called the MERCY SEAT. This was a costly and magnificent piece of workmanship. It was beaten out of one solid piece of gold, and TWO CHERUBIM were made, one standing on each end, beaten out of the same piece of gold. Their faces were turned toward each other, and were looking reverently downward toward the MERCY SEAT, which represents all the heavenly angels looking with interest and reverence to the LAW OF GOD deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other covered their forms. The ARK of the earthly SANCTUARY was the pattern of the true ARK in Heaven. There, beside the heavenly ARK, stand living angels, each with one wing overshadowing the MERCY SEAT, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 12}

The VEIL of the SANCTUARY did not reach to the top of the building. The GLORY OF GOD, which was manifested above the MERCY SEAT, was partially visible from the FIRST APARTMENT. Directly before the ARK, but separated by the CURTAIN, was the GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE. The fire upon this ALTAR was kindled by the LORD himself, and was sacredly cherished by feeding it with holy INCENSE, which filled the SANCTUARY with its fragrant cloud, day and night. Its fragrance extended far around the TABERNACLE. When the priest offered the INCENSE before the LORD, he looked toward the MERCY SEAT. Although he could not see it, he knew it was there; and as the INCENSE arose like a cloud, the glory of the LORD descended upon the MERCY SEAT, and filled the MOST HOLY PLACE, and often so filled BOTH APARTMENTS that the priest was unable to officiate. As the priest in the HOLY PLACE, directed his prayer by faith to the MERCY SEAT, which he could not see, so the people of GOD direct their prayers to CHRIST before the MERCY SEAT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They cannot behold their MEDIATOR with the natural eye, but with the eye of faith they see CHRIST before the MERCY SEAT, and direct their prayers to him, and with assurance claim the benefits of his MEDIATION. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 13}

Thus the LORD signified that he accepted the TABERNACLE built for his presence; and ever after this manifestation, when the children of Israel encamped, directly over the TABERNACLE rested the pillar of cloud by day, and the bright glory in the pillar of fire by night. When the cloud ascended they knew this was the signal for them to resume their march onward. When it continued to rest over the TABERNACLE they were to rest from their journeying. When the LORD signified his acceptance of their work in the manifestation of his glory, the hearts of the people were inspired with awe, and with gratitude. There was no noisy demonstrations of joy but with softened hearts, and flowing tears they murmured low, yet earnest words of thankfulness that GOD had approved the work of their hands, and had condescended to dwell more directly with them than ever before. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 18}

In addition to the TABLES OF TESTIMONY which were given to Moses in the mount, he there received the ritual or ceremonial law, and full instructions in regard to the building of the TABERNACLE. When this TABERNACLE was finally completed, the unsurpassed glory of the LORD so rested down upon it that Moses was unable at first to enter. But an audible voice from the divine glory above the MERCY SEAT spake to him, and bade him come nigh. And there the LORD gave him still further directions in regard to the forms of worship to be carried on in the SANCTUARY. {ST, July 15, 1880 par. 1}

By the act of bringing the offering to the SANCTUARY, the individual confessed himself a sinner, deserving the WRATH OF GOD, and signified his repentance and faith in JESUS CHRIST, whose blood would remove the guilt of the transgressor. By placing his hands upon the head of the victim the sin of the individual was transferred to the victim, and his suffering the sinner saw CHRIST typified, when he should give himself as a sacrifice for our sins. The LORD signified his acceptance of the offering by causing it to be consumed upon the ALTAR. {ST, July 15, 1880 par. 6}

The blood of the SON OF GOD was symbolized by the blood of the slain victim, and GOD would have clear and definite ideas preserved between the sacred and the common. Blood was sacred, inasmuch as through the shedding of the blood of the SON OF GOD alone could there be ATONEMENT FOR SIN. Blood was also used to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY from the sins of the people, thus typifying the BLOOD OF CHRIST which alone can CLEANSE from sin. The fat was to be used in sacrificial offerings with the beasts, but in no case was it a suitable article of food. If used, disease would be the sure result. {ST, July 15, 1880 par. 11}

The offerings brought to the SANCTUARY were to be without spot or blemish. Had one stain of sin rested upon our REDEEMER, his sacrifice would not have secured the salvation of man. CHRIST was under no obligation to become man’s sacrifice. He was above law. But he took upon him the form of a servant, and went without the camp, bearing our reproach. He suffered without the gates of Jerusalem, thereby signifying that he died not only for Israel, but for all the world. Himself sinless, he was made sin for us, and upon him were laid all our iniquities. But when he came to the nation whom he came to save, they received him not, but crucified him. Here type met antitype. The ceremonies of the Jewish worship were then no longer needed; for the great Sacrifice to whom all other sacrifices pointed had now been offered. The middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile was broken down, and all nations, tongues, and people, were invited to partake of the salvation purchased at so great a cost. {ST, July 15, 1880 par. 12}

And if any man from curiosity, or from lack of order forgot his position, and touched any part of the SANCTUARY, or FURNITURE, or even came nigh any of the workmen, they were punished with death. GOD did not leave his HOLY TABERNACLE to be borne, and erected, and taken down, indiscriminately, by any tribe who might desire to do it. persons were chosen to the office who could appreciate the sacredness of the work in which they were engaged. And these men appointed of GOD were directed to impress upon the people the especial sacredness of the ARK and all that appertained thereunto, lest they should look upon these things without realizing their holiness, and by making sacred things common should be cut off from Israel. Everything pertaining to the MOST HOLY was to be regarded with reverence and holy awe. {ST, July 29, 1880 par. 5}

When the signal was given for the encampment to move from their home at Sinai, to many it was a welcome sound. While engaged in building the SANCTUARY, their busy activities had served to keep them contented; but that work being accomplished, inactivity was becoming wearisome. Even the toils of their journeying were more welcome to them than to have nothing to do. But while some desired the change, many were loth to leave the place. They had encamped so long in that vicinity that it had become their home. They had learned to love to look upon the sacred mount upon whose hoary peaks and barren ridges the grand and awful GLORY OF GOD had so often been displayed. The scene seemed to be engraven upon the tablets of their hearts. With many the place was so closely associated with the presence of GOD and holy angels that it seemed too sacred to leave thoughtlessly or even gladly. {ST, July 29, 1880 par. 10}

The man of GOD was praying, not for a flight of happy feeling, but for a knowledge of the divine will. And he desired this knowledge, not merely for himself, but for his people. His great burden was for Israel, who were not, in the strictest sense, keeping the LAW OF GOD. He acknowledges that all their misfortunes have come upon them in consequence of their transgressions of that HOLY LAW. He says, “We have sinned, we have done wickedly. . . . Because for our sins and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us.” They had lost their peculiar, holy character as GOD’S chosen people. “Now therefore, O our GOD, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy SANCTUARY that is desolate.” Daniel’s heart turns with intense longing to the desolate SANCTUARY of GOD. He knows that its prosperity can be restored only as Israel shall repent of their transgressions of GOD’S LAW, and become humble, and faithful, and obedient. {RH, February 8, 1881 par. 22}

The FATHER and the SON spoke to Moses from the rocks. GOD made the rocks his SANCTUARY. HIS TEMPLE was the everlasting hills. The DIVINE LEGISLATOR descended upon the rocky mountain to speak HIS LAW in the hearing of all the people, that they might be impressed by the grand and awful exhibition of his power and glory, and fear to transgress HIS COMMANDMENTS. GOD spoke HIS LAW amid thunders and lightnings and the thick cloud upon the top of the mountain, and his voice was as the voice of a trumpet exceeding loud. The LAW OF JEHOVAH was unchangeable, and the tablets upon which he wrote that law were solid rock, signifying the immutability of its precepts. ROCKy Horeb became a sacred place to all who loved and revered the LAW OF GOD. {RH, March 1, 1881 par. 13} {SL 74.3 1889}

This solemn covenant was recorded in the BOOK OF THE LAW, to be sacredly preserved. Joshua then set up a great stone under an oak that was by the SANCTUARY of the LORD. “And Joshua said unto all the people, Behold this stone shall be a witness unto us; for it hath heard all the words of the LORD which he spake unto us: it shall be therefore a witness unto you, lest ye deny your GOD.” Here Joshua plainly declares that his instructions and warnings to the people were not his own words, but the words of GOD. This great stone would stand to testify to succeeding generations of the event which it was set up to commemorate, and would be a witness against the people, should they ever again degenerate into idolatry. {ST, May 26, 1881 par. 5}

As the sons of Eli advanced to manhood, and entered upon the duties of the priesthood, the evil effects of their early training became more apparent. Though engaged in so important and sacred a work, they were “sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD.” From childhood they had been familiar with the solemn, impressive services of the SANCTUARY. They had been faithfully instructed in the commandments and ordinances of the LORD. Intellectually, they had a knowledge of GOD; but their hearts had never yielded to the influence of DIVINE GRACE. They loved not GOD’S character or his requirements. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 1}

The typical service was the connecting link between GOD and Israel. The sacrificial offerings were designed to prefigure the sacrifice of CHRIST, and thus to preserve in the hearts of the people an unwavering faith in the REDEEMER to come. Hence, in order that the LORD might accept their sacrifices, and continue his presence with them, and, on the other hand, that the people might have a correct knowledge of the PLAN OF SALVATION, and a right understanding of their duty, it was of the utmost importance that holiness of heart and purity of life, reverence for GOD, and strict obedience to his requirements, should be maintained by all connected with the SANCTUARY. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 8}

The LORD had, through Moses, given the most explicit directions concerning the sacrificial offerings. But selfish, avaricious priests, to serve their own interests, had departed from these instructions. The sacrifice of the peace-offerings especially, which were made as an expression of thanksgiving to GOD, and were presented in great numbers when the people assembled at the annual feasts, afforded a favorable opportunity for unscrupulous priests to enrich themselves at the expense of the people. The LORD had directed that the fat of the peace-offering should be burned upon the ALTAR as a type of the great Sacrifice; a specified portion, the breast and the right shoulder, with some minor parts, were given to the priest as his perquisite; the remainder was to be eaten by those who brought the offering. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 9}

Infinite wisdom had foreseen that the clamors of appetite, and a covetous desire for gain, might lead the priest to appropriate to himself the sacrifices solemnly devoted to the LORD. That there might be no room for confusion or misunderstanding, the most exact and minute directions had been given. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 10}

Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli, disregarded the laws of the SANCTUARY more boldly than had any of their predecessors. While they arrayed themselves in the sacerdotal garments and ministered before the LORD, they cared only for the gratification of their own debased appetites and passions. The priests not being content with their rightful share of the peace-offerings, it had become customary for one of their servants to come while the offerers were cooking their portion in some APARTMENT adjacent to the SANCTUARY, and to carry away whatever could be taken up with the flesh-hook. The great numbers of sacrifices offered, made this a considerable addition to the priest’s perquisite. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 11}

But even this departure from the LORD’S commands failed to satisfy Hophni and Phinehas. They desired the fat, which the LORD had expressly stated should never be eaten, but burned on the ALTAR as an offering to himself. As they had learned to despise the authority of their father, they now despised the authority of GOD, and sent their servants to demand the flesh of the peace-offerings before the fat had been separated from it. When the offerer remonstrated, “Let them not fail to burn the fat presently, and then take as much as thy soul desireth,” the answer was, “Nay, but thou shalt give it to me now; and if not, I will take it by force.” The people stood in awe of the priests, and submitted to their unlawful claims, robbing themselves of their rightful share of the offering. Thus, appetite, selfishness, and avarice triumphed, exerting their evil influence upon the people at the very time when every heart should have been directed in penitence and faith to the great Sacrifice which was to take away the sins of the world. These things had a telling influence upon the people, and they were fast losing all sense of the sacredness of the sacrificial offerings, and of the importance of attending upon the services of the SANCTUARY. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 12}

The recreant priests added licentiousness to the dark catalogue of their crimes; yet they still polluted by their presence the TABERNACLE of the LORD, and, laden with sin, dared to come into the presence of a HOLY GOD. As the men of Israel witnessed the corrupt course of the priests, they thought it safer for their families not to come up to the appointed place of worship. Many went from Shiloh with their peace disturbed, their indignation aroused, until they at last determined to offer their sacrifices themselves, concluding that this would be fully as acceptable to GOD, as to sanction in any manner the abominations practiced in the SANCTUARY. {ST, December 1, 1881 par. 13}

While Eli’s heart was filled with anxiety and remorse by the evil course of his sons, he found relief and comfort in the integrity and devotion of the youthful Samuel. His ready helpfulness and unvarying fidelity lightened the burdens of the careworn priest. Eli loved Samuel; for he saw that the grace and LOVE OF GOD rested upon him. It was not customary for the Levites to enter upon their peculiar services until they were twenty-five years of age. But Samuel had been an exception to this rule. Every year saw more important trusts committed to him, and, while yet a child, a linen ephod was placed upon him, as a token of his consecration to the work of the SANCTUARY. {ST, December 15, 1881 par. 1}

Oh, let us live wholly for the LORD and show by a well-ordered life and godly conversation that we have been with JESUS and are His meek and lowly followers. We must work while the day lasts, for when the dark night of trouble and anguish comes, it will be too late to work for GOD. JESUS is in His holy temple and will now accept our sacrifices, our prayers, and our confessions of faults and sins and will pardon all the transgressions of Israel, that they may be blotted out before He leaves the SANCTUARY. When JESUS leaves the SANCTUARY, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the SANCTUARY to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the FATHER’S THRONE. Therefore what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath must be done before JESUS leaves the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {EW 48.1 1882}

This view was given in 1847 when there were but very few of the Advent brethren observing the SABBATH, and of these but few supposed that its observance was of sufficient importance to draw a line between the people of GOD and unbelievers. Now the fulfilment of that view is beginning to be seen. “The commencement of that TIME OF TROUBLE,” here mentioned does not refer to the time when the PLAGUES shall begin to be poured out, but to a short period just before they are poured out, while CHRIST is in the SANCTUARY. At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the “latter rain,” or refreshing from the presence of the LORD, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last PLAGUES shall be poured out. {EW 85.3 1882} {ExV54 3.4 1854}

I was shown the disappointment of the disciples as they came to the sepulcher and found not the body of JESUS. Mary said, “They have taken away my LORD, and I know not where they have laid Him.” Angels told the sorrowing disciples that their LORD had risen, and would go before them into Galilee. {EW 244.1 1882}

In like manner I saw that JESUS regarded with the deepest compassion the disappointed ones who had waited for His coming; and He sent His angels to direct their minds that they might follow Him where He was. He showed them that this earth is not the SANCTUARY, but that He must enter the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to make an ATONEMENT for His people and TO RECEIVE THE KINGDOM FROM HIS FATHER, and that He would then return to the earth and take them to dwell with Him forever. The disappointment of the first disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their LORD in 1844. {EW 244.2 1882}

The SANCTUARY

Two lovely cherubs, one on each end of the ARK, stood with their wings outstretched above it, and touching each other above the head of JESUS as He stood before the MERCY SEAT. Their faces were turned toward each other, and they looked downward to the ARK, representing all the angelic host looking with interest at the LAW OF GOD. Between the CHERUBIM was a GOLDEN CENSER, and as the prayers of the saints, offered in faith, came up to JESUS, and He presented them to His father, a cloud of fragrance arose from the INCENSE, looking like smoke of most beautiful colors. Above the place where JESUS stood, before the ARK, was exceedingly bright glory that I could not look upon; it appeared like the THRONE of GOD. As the INCENSE ascended to the FATHER, the excellent glory came from the THRONE to JESUS, and from Him it was shed upon those whose prayers had come up like sweet INCENSE. Light poured upon JESUS in rich abundance and overshadowed the MERCY SEAT, and the train of glory filled the temple. I could not long look upon the surpassing brightness. No language can describe it. I was overwhelmed and turned from the majesty and glory of the scene. {EW 252.1 1882}

Many look with horror at the course of the Jews in rejecting and crucifying CHRIST; and as they read the history of His shameful abuse, they think they love Him, and would not have denied Him as did Peter, or crucified Him as did the Jews. But GOD who reads the hearts of all, has brought to the test that love for JESUS which they professed to feel. All heaven watched with the deepest interest the reception of the first angel’s message. But many who professed to love JESUS, and who shed tears as they read the story of the cross, derided the good news of His coming. Instead of receiving the message with gladness, they declared it to be a delusion. They hated those who loved His appearing and shut them out of the churches. Those who rejected the first message could not be benefited by the second; neither were they benefited by the midnight cry, which was to prepare them to enter with JESUS by faith into the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And by rejecting the two former messages, they have so darkened their understanding that they can see no light in the third angel’s message, which shows the way into the MOST HOLY PLACE. I saw that as the Jews crucified JESUS, so the nominal churches had crucified these messages, and therefore they have no knowledge of the way into the MOST HOLY, and they cannot be benefited by the intercession of JESUS there. Like the Jews, who offered their useless sacrifices, they offer up their useless prayers to the APARTMENT which JESUS has left; and Satan, pleased with the deception, assumes a religious character, and leads the minds of these professed Christians to himself, working with his power, his signs and lying wonders, to fasten them in his snare. Some he deceives in one way, and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan deceives some with SPIRITUALISM. He also comes as an angel of light and spreads his influence over the land by means of false reformations. The churches are elated, and consider that GOD is working marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit. The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. {EW 260.1 1882}

Every case had been decided for life or death. While JESUS had been ministering in the SANCTUARY, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. CHRIST had received His kingdom, having made the ATONEMENT for His people and blotted out their sins. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the LAMB was consummated. And the kingdom, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was given to JESUS and the heirs of salvation, and JESUS was to reign as KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. {EW 280.1 1882}

What the people in Monterey need is religion. They want good, humble religion—the softening, subduing GRACE OF GOD upon the heart, crucifying self with the affections and lusts. Weakness and vacillation will never secure respect to the Christian profession. It is impossible to reach men where they are and elevate them unless some confidence is inspired in them for your sincerity and piety. You can never reach them by stepping down from the platform of truth and reform, but by brining others up to that platform which GOD’S WORD has provided for you. If men opposed to our faith see that you who profess it are earnest, steadfast, and uncorrupted at all times and under all circumstances, and that you abide in CHRIST the living Vine, and are unshaken followers of truth and reform, you will reflect the SPIRIT and character of CHRIST. In your business, in the associations with believers and unbelievers, in the SANCTUARY, at home, in every place, you will show the influence of a SAVIOUR’S love which will have a controlling influence upon unbelievers. {Lt1-1882}

These men look upon themselves as needing no godly sorrow. They will not trouble their minds and repent before GOD of their errors and failures, which have been the means of leading souls away from CHRIST. They have not connected with GOD and employed their talents to His glory. They really think they will degrade their characters by manifesting genuine repentance and confessing their faults one to another. They are so far separated from GOD that they estimate the favor of the world as the favor of GOD. They flatter themselves in their self-sufficiency that with such good characters as they have, as estimated of men, they would be degrading themselves to manifest shame and sorrow for sin. A broken heart and a contrite spirit the LORD will not despise. BIBLE repentance is to them associated with degradation. The WORD OF GOD presents the only true standard of what is innocent and what is virtuous, true, and excellent, and unless these respectable sinners shall meet the BIBLE standard, they will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. We may be pleasantly satisfied with the measurement of ourselves, but be wholly wanting when weighed in the balances of GOD. {Ms7-1882}

The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. THE MARK OF THE BEAST WILL BE URGED UPON US. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands, and conformed to worldly customs, will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to DERISION, INSULT, THREATENED IMPRISONMENT, AND DEATH. THE CONTEST IS BETWEEN THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD AND THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN. In this time, THE GOLD WILL BE SEPARATED FROM THE DROSS IN THE CHURCH. True Godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. MANY A STAR THAT WE HAVE ADMIRED FOR ITS BRILLIANCY, WILL THEN GO OUT IN DARKNESS. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ORNAMENTS of the SANCTUARY, but are not clothed with CHRIST’S righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness. {PH117 63.2 1882} {RH, November 20, 1913 par. 14}

The church cannot measure herself by the world, nor by the opinion of men, nor by what she once was. Her faith and her position in the world as they now are, must be compared with what they would have been if her course had been continually onward and upward. THE CHURCH WILL BE WEIGHED IN THE BALANCES OF THE SANCTUARY. If her moral character and SPIRITUAL state do not correspond with the benefits and blessings GOD has conferred upon her, she will be found wanting. The light has been shining clear and definite upon her pathway, and the light of 1882 calls her to an account. If her talents are unimproved, if her fruit is not perfect before GOD, if her light has become darkness, she is indeed found wanting. The knowledge of our state as GOD views it, seems to be hidden from us. We see, but perceive not; we hear, but do not understand; and we rest as unconcerned as if the pillar of cloud by day, and the pillar of fire by night, rested upon our SANCTUARY. We profess to know GOD, and to believe the truth; but in works deny him. Our deeds are directly adverse to the principles of truth and righteousness, by which we profess to be governed. {PH117 66.1 1882}

THE WORD OF GOD PRESENTS THE ONLY TRUE STANDARD OF WHAT IS INNOCENT AND WHAT IS VIRTUOUS, TRUE, AND EXCELLENT; and unless these respectable sinners shall meet the BIBLE standard, they will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. We may be pleasantly satisfied with the measurement of ourselves, but be wholly wanting when weighed in the balances of GOD. Your work last winter was a shame, a disgrace, to any professing the name of Christians. GOD was in your midst, a silent witness to all your transactions. The mob spirit prevailed. The mob spirit was encouraged, although there was some remonstrance made. The ones who indited it, the ones who were leaders in this, stand condemned before GOD as verily as did Belshazzar when engaged in his sacrilegious feast. The same GOD was in your midst who revealed himself to the king as the bloodless hand that traced the characters on the wall, “Weighed in the balances and found wanting.” Men may say you are all right, or men may condemn, but it is of very little consequence. The balances in which the world weighs men may pronounce the imperfect not wanting of right weight and full measure, while GOD’S measurement and weight says, Wanting. When GOD weighs motives and character, it means something that should fill the soul with terror as it did the guilty king. It is no light matter to be found wanting when judged by one who never makes a mistake, one who has shown mortals compassion, sympathy, and love; to be wanting in sincerity, in true love to CHRIST, who died that he might give life and peace and hope to those lost and undone by sin; to be wanting in brotherly kindness and love to Christian brethren, whom he has redeemed with the price of his own blood. Can we afford this? “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” It is CHRIST you have abused and maligned in the person of his saints. {PH155 14.1 1882}

These institutions were missionary seminaries, designed to maintain a higher standard of morals and religion at a period when the deplorable condition of degeneracy and corruption called loudly for such reformatory effort. The aged Eli had dishonored the LORD by his neglect to restrain and control his children. These degenerate sons called license liberty, and under the cover of their holy office practiced the most debasing sins. The character of these men as leaders of the nation, indicates clearly the state of things existing at that time. Had Eli restrained his excessive fondness for his sons, and performed his duty to them as a father and a priest, theirs had been a nobler life and a happier fate. They might have been an honor to their father, the crown of the nation, and the guardians of the SANCTUARY. But their crimes had polluted the ordinances of the LORD, and corrupted his people. To prevent the moral degeneracy from becoming universal, he resorted to a speedy and powerful remedy. Divine justice destroyed the father and the sons. {ST, June 22, 1882 par. 8}

Are you not willing to accept the promises which the LORD here makes and to put selfishness from you and begin to work earnestly to advance His cause? Do not strengthen your hold on this world by taking advantage of your poorer neighbor, for GOD’S eye is upon you; He reads every motive and weighs you in the balances of the SANCTUARY. {5T 154.1 1882-1889}

And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer’s inkhorn by his side; and the LORD said unto him, GO THROUGH THE MIDST OF THE CITY, THROUGH THE MIDST OF JERUSALEM, AND SET A MARK UPON THE FOREHEADS OF THE MEN THAT SIGH AND THAT CRY FOR ALL THE ABOMINATIONS THAT BE DONE IN THE MIDST THEREOF. And to the others he said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the city, AND SMITE: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: BUT COME NOT NEAR ANY MAN UPON WHOM IS THE MARK; AND BEGIN AT MY SANCTUARY. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.” {5T 207.3 1882-1889}

JESUS is about to leave the MERCY SEAT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to put on garments of vengeance and pour out His wrath in judgments upon those who have not responded to the light GOD has given them. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” Instead of being softened by the patience and long forbearance that the LORD has exercised toward them, those who fear not GOD and love not the truth strengthen their hearts in their evil course. But there are limits even to the forbearance of GOD, and many are exceeding these boundaries. They have overrun the limits of grace, and therefore GOD must interfere and vindicate His own honor. {5T 207.4 1882-1889}

THE CLASS WHO DO NOT FEEL GRIEVED OVER THEIR OWN SPIRITUAL DECLENSION, NOR MOURN OVER THE SINS OF OTHERS, WILL BE LEFT WITHOUT THE SEAL OF GOD. The LORD commissions His messengers, the men with slaughtering weapons in their hands: “Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.” {5T 211.1 1882-1889} {RH, January 11, 1887 par. 11}

When the people of GOD were about to build the SANCTUARY in the wilderness, extensive preparations were necessary. Costly materials were collected, and among them was much gold and silver. As the rightful owner of all their treasures, the LORD called for these offerings from the people; but He accepted only those that were given freely. The people offered willingly, until word was brought to Moses: “The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work, which the LORD commanded to make.” And the proclamation was made to all the congregation: “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the SANCTUARY. So the people were restrained from bringing. For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much.” {5T 268.1 1882-1889}

Had some men of limited ideas been on the ground they would have opened their eyes in horror. Like Judas they would have asked: “To what purpose is this waste?” “Why not make everything in the cheapest manner?” But THE SANCTUARY WAS NOT DESIGNED TO HONOR MAN, BUT THE GOD OF HEAVEN. He had given specific directions how everything was to be done. The people were to be taught that He was a being of greatness and majesty, and that He was to be worshiped with reverence and awe. {5T 268.2 1882-1889}

We individually have a case pending in the court of heaven. Character is being weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and it should be the earnest desire of all to walk humbly and carefully, lest, neglecting to let their light shine forth to the world, they fail of the GRACE OF GOD and lose everything that is valuable. All dissension, all differences and faultfinding, should be put away, with all evil speaking and bitterness; kindness, love, and compassion for one another should be cherished, that the prayer of CHRIST that His disciples might be one as He is one with the FATHER may be answered. The harmony and unity of the church are the credentials that they present to the world that JESUS is the SON OF GOD. Genuine conversion will ever lead to genuine love for JESUS and for all those for whom He died. {5T 279.1 1882-1889}

THIS IS THE GREAT DAY OF PREPARATION, AND THE SOLEMN WORK GOING ON IN THE SANCTUARY ABOVE SHOULD BE KEPT CONSTANTLY BEFORE THE MINDS of those employed in our various institutions. Business cares should not be allowed to absorb the mind to such a degree that the work in heaven, which concerns every individual, will be lightly regarded. THE SOLEMN SCENES OF THE JUDGMENT, THE GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, SHOULD BE KEPT BEFORE THE PEOPLE, and urged upon their consciences with earnestness and power. The subject of the SANCTUARY will give us correct views of the importance of the work for this time. A proper appreciation of it will lead the workers in the publishing houses to manifest greater energy and zeal to make the work a success. None should become careless, blinded to the wants of the cause and the perils that attend every soul; but each should seek to be a channel of light. {5T 420.3 1882-1889}

As the intercession of Joshua is accepted, the command is given, “Take away the filthy garments from him,” and to Joshua the Angel declares, “Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.” “So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments.” His own sins and those of his people were pardoned. Israel were clothed with “change of raiment” –the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST imputed to them. The miter placed upon Joshua’s head was such as was worn by the priests and bore the inscription, “HOLINESS TO THE LORD,” signifying that, notwithstanding his former transgressions, he was now qualified to minister before GOD in His SANCTUARY. {5T 469.2 1882-1889}

THE HOUSE IS THE SANCTUARY FOR THE FAMILY, AND THE CLOSET OR THE GROVE THE MOST RETIRED PLACE FOR INDIVIDUAL WORSHIP; BUT THE CHURCH IS THE SANCTUARY FOR THE CONGREGATION. THERE SHOULD BE RULES IN REGARD TO THE TIME, THE PLACE, AND THE MANNER OF WORSHIPING. Nothing that is sacred, nothing that pertains to the WORSHIP OF GOD, should be treated with carelessness or indifference. In order that men may do their best work in showing forth the praises of GOD, their associations must be such as will keep the sacred distinct from the common, in their minds. Those who have broad ideas, noble thoughts and aspirations, are those who have associations that strengthen all thoughts of divine things. Happy are those who have a SANCTUARY, be it high or low, in the city or among the rugged mountain caves, in the lowly cabin or in the wilderness. If it is the best they can secure for the MASTER, He will hallow the place with His presence, and it will be holy unto the LORD of hosts. {5T 491.3 1882-1889}

THE PLACE DEDICATED TO GOD SHOULD NOT BE A ROOM WHERE WORLDLY BUSINESS IS TRANSACTED. If the children assemble to worship GOD in a room that is used during the week for a school or a storeroom, they will be more than human if, mingled with their devotional thoughts, they do not also have thoughts of their studies or of things that have happened during the week. The education and training of the youth should be of a character that would exalt sacred things and encourage pure devotion for GOD in His house. Many who profess to be children of the heavenly King have no true appreciation of the sacredness of ETERNAL things. Nearly all need to be taught how to conduct themselves in the HOUSE OF GOD. Parents should not only teach, but command, their children to enter the SANCTUARY with sobriety and reverence. {5T 496.1 1882-1889}

THE MORAL TASTE OF THE WORSHIPERS IN GOD’S HOLY SANCTUARY MUST BE ELEVATED, REFINED, SANCTIFIED. This matter has been sadly neglected. Its importance has been overlooked, and as the result, disorder and irreverence have become prevalent, and GOD has been dishonored. When the leaders in the church, ministers and people, father and mothers, have not had elevated views of this matter, what could be expected of the inexperienced children? They are too often found in groups, away from the parents, who should have charge of them. Notwithstanding they are in the presence of GOD, and His eye is looking upon them, they are light and trifling, they whisper and laugh, are careless, irreverent, and inattentive. They are seldom instructed that the minister is GOD’S ambassador, that the message he brings is one of GOD’S appointed agencies in the salvation of souls, and that to all who have the privilege brought within their reach it will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. {5T 496.2 1882-1889}

The delicate and susceptible minds of the youth obtain their estimate of the labors of GOD’S servants by the way their parents treat the matter. Many heads of families make the service a subject of criticism at home, approving a few things and condemning others. Thus the message of GOD to men is criticized and questioned, and made a subject of levity. What impressions are thus made upon the young by these careless, irreverent remarks the books of heaven alone will reveal. The children see and understand these things very much quicker than parents are apt to think. Their moral senses receive a wrong bias that time will never fully change. The parents mourn over the hardness of heart in their children and the difficulty in arousing their moral sensibility to answer to the claims of GOD. But the books of heavenly record trace with unerring pen the true cause. The parents were unconverted. They were not in harmony with heaven or with heaven’s work. Their low, common ideas of the sacredness of the ministry and of the SANCTUARY of GOD were woven into the education of their children. It is a question whether anyone who has for years been under this blighting influence of home instruction will ever have a sensitive reverence and high regard for GOD’S ministry and the agencies He has appointed for the salvation of souls. These things should be spoken of with reverence, with propriety of language, and with fine susceptibility, that you may reveal to all you associate with that you regard the message from GOD’S servants as a message to you from GOD Himself. {5T 497.1 1882-1889}

Parents, be careful what example and what ideas you give your children. Their minds are plastic, and impressions are easily made. In regard to the service of the SANCTUARY, if the speaker has a blemish, be afraid to mention it. Talk only of the good work he is doing, of the good ideas he presented, which you should heed as coming through GOD’S agent. It may be readily seen why children are so little impressed with the ministry of the word and why they have so little reverence for the HOUSE OF GOD. Their education has been defective in this respect. Their parents need daily communion with GOD. Their own ideas need to be refined and ennobled; their lips need to be touched with a live coal from off the ALTAR; then their habits, their practices at home, will make a good impression on the minds and characters of their children. The standard of religion will be greatly elevated. Such parents will do a great work for GOD. They will have less earthliness, less sensuality, and more refinement and fidelity at home. Life will be invested with a solemnity of which they have scarcely conceived. Nothing will be made common that pertains to the service and WORSHIP OF GOD. {5T 498.1 1882-1889}

ALL SHOULD BE TAUGHT TO BE NEAT, CLEAN, AND ORDERLY IN THEIR DRESS, BUT NOT TO INDULGE IN THAT EXTERNAL ADORNING WHICH IS WHOLLY INAPPROPRIATE FOR THE SANCTUARY. There should be no display of the apparel; for this encourages irreverence. The attention of the people is often called to this or that fine article of dress, and thus thoughts are intruded that should have no place in the hearts of the worshipers. GOD is to be the subject of thought, the object of worship; and anything that attracts the mind from the solemn, sacred service is an offense to Him. The parading of bows and ribbons, ruffles and feathers, and gold and silver ORNAMENTS is a species of idolatry and is wholly inappropriate for the sacred SERVICE OF GOD, where the eye of every worshiper should be single to His glory. ALL MATTERS OF DRESS SHOULD BE STRICTLY GUARDED, FOLLOWING CLOSELY THE BIBLE RULE. Fashion has been the goddess who has ruled the outside world, and she often insinuates herself into the church. THE CHURCH SHOULD MAKE THE WORD OF GOD HER STANDARD, AND PARENTS SHOULD THINK INTELLIGENTLY UPON THIS SUBJECT. When they see their children inclined to follow worldly fashions, they should, like Abraham, resolutely command their households after them. Instead of uniting them with the world, connect them with GOD. Let none dishonor GOD’S SANCTUARY by their showy apparel. GOD and angels are there. The Holy One of Israel has spoken through His apostle: “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of GOD of great price.” {5T 499.1 1882-1889}

WE ARE IN THE GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, AND THE SACRED WORK OF CHRIST FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD THAT IS GOING ON AT THE PRESENT TIME IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY SHOULD BE OUR CONSTANT STUDY. We should teach our children what the typical DAY OF ATONEMENT signified and that it was a special season of great humiliation and confession of sins before GOD. The antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT is to be of the same character. Everyone who teaches the truth by precept and example will give the trumpet a certain sound. You need ever to cultivate SPIRITUALITY, because it is not natural for you to be heavenly-minded. The great work is before us of leading the people away from worldly customs and practices, up higher and higher, to SPIRITUALITY, piety, and earnest work for GOD. It is your work to proclaim the message of the third angel, to sound the last note of warning to the world. May the LORD bless you with SPIRITUAL eyesight. I write this in love, seeing your danger. Please consider these things carefully and prayerfully. {5T 520.1 1882-1889}

THE GREAT PLAN OF REDEMPTION, AS REVEALED IN THE CLOSING WORK OF THESE LAST DAYS, SHOULD RECEIVE CLOSE EXAMINATION. The scenes connected with the SANCTUARY above should make such an impression upon the minds and hearts of all that they may be able to impress others. ALL NEED TO BECOME MORE INTELLIGENT IN REGARD TO THE WORK OF THE ATONEMENT, WHICH IS GOING ON IN THE SANCTUARY ABOVE. When this grand truth is seen and understood, those who hold it will work in harmony with CHRIST to prepare a people to stand in the GREAT DAY OF GOD, and their efforts will be successful. BY STUDY, CONTEMPLATION, AND PRAYER GOD’S PEOPLE WILL BE ELEVATED ABOVE COMMON, EARTHLY THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS, AND WILL BE BROUGHT INTO HARMONY WITH CHRIST AND HIS GREAT WORK OF CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY ABOVE FROM THE SINS OF THE PEOPLE. Their faith will go with Him into the SANCTUARY, and the worshipers on earth will be carefully reviewing their lives and comparing their characters with the great standard of righteousness. They will see their own defects; they will also see that they must have the aid of the SPIRIT OF GOD if they would become qualified for the great and solemn work for this time which is laid upon GOD’S ambassadors. {5T 575.1 1882-1889}

If these persons do not humble their hearts before GOD, if they harbor the suggestions of Satan, doubt and infidelity will take possession of the soul, and they will see everything in a false light. Let the seeds of doubt once be sown in their hearts and they will have an abundant harvest to reap. They will come to mistrust and disbelieve truths which are plain and full of beauty to others who have not educated themselves in unbelief. Those who train the mind to seize upon everything which they can use as a peg to hang a doubt upon, and suggest these thoughts to other minds, will always find occasion to doubt. They will question and criticize everything that arises in the unfolding of truth, criticize the work and position of others, criticize every branch of the work in which they have not themselves a part. They will feed upon the errors and mistakes and faults of others, “until,” said the angel, the LORD JESUS shall rise up from His MEDIATORIAL work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and shall clothe Himself with the garments of vengeance and surprise them at their unholy feast, and they will find themselves unprepared for the marriage supper of the LAMB.” Their taste has been so perverted that they would be inclined to criticize even the table of the LORD in His kingdom. {5T 689.2 1882-1889}

By resistance to the truth, the hearts of such are settling down into the fatal hardness of confirmed impenitence. They are deceiving themselves, and deceiving others. They are Christians by profession; they pay outward homage to CHRIST; they unite in the services of the SANCTUARY; and yet the heart, whose loyalty alone JESUS prizes, is estranged from him. They have a name to live, but are dead. They are left to the darkness they have chosen,–the blackness of ETERNAL night. {LP 233.2 1883}

Felix had sufficient penetration to read the disposition and character of Paul’s accusers. He perceived the motives of their flattery, and saw also that they had failed to substantiate their charges. Turning to the accused, he beckoned to him to answer for himself. Paul wasted no words in fulsome compliments, but simply stated that he could the more cheerfully defend himself before Felix, since the latter had been so long a procurator, and therefore had so good an understanding of the laws and customs of the Jews. Step by step he then refuted the charges brought against him. He declared that he had caused no disturbance in any part of Jerusalem, nor had he profaned the SANCTUARY: “They neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city; neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.” {LP 237.2 1883}

GOD had committed to His people a work to be accomplished on earth. The third angel’s message was to be given; the minds of believers were to be directed to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY where CHRIST had entered to make ATONEMENT for His people. The SABBATH reform was to be carried forward. The breach in the LAW OF GOD must be made up. The message must be proclaimed with a loud voice, that all the inhabitants of earth might receive the warnings. The people of GOD must purify their souls through obedience to the truth and be prepared to stand without fault before Him at His coming. {Ms4-1883}

The heifer having been slain, the priest, clothed in pure white garments, took the blood in his hands as it issued from the body of the victim, and cast it toward the temple seven times. Thus CHRIST in his own spotless righteousness, after shedding his precious blood, entered into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to minister in the sinner’s behalf. And there the crimson current is brought into the service of reconciling GOD to man. “And having a high priest over the HOUSE OF GOD, let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.” {RH, January 9, 1883 par. 6}

There should be BIBLE-readings in place of some of the regular discourses; even outsiders will be benefited by them. Our people, who are expecting such great and important events soon to transpire, should know the reasons of their faith, that they may be able to give an answer to every man that shall ask them a reason for the hope which is in them with meekness and fear. In his word, GOD has revealed truths that will benefit his church. As a people, WE SHOULD BE EARNEST STUDENTS OF PROPHECY; WE SHOULD NOT REST UNTIL WE BECOME INTELLIGENT IN REGARD TO THE SUBJECT OF THE SANCTUARY, WHICH IS BROUGHT OUT IN THE VISIONS OF DANIEL AND JOHN. This subject sheds great light on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that GOD has led us in our past experience. It explains our disappointment in 1844, showing us that the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED was not the earth, as we had supposed, but that CHRIST then entered into the MOST HOLY APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and is there performing the closing work of his priestly office, in fulfillment of the words of the angel to the prophet Daniel, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” {RH, November 27, 1883 par. 9} {LS 278.1 1915}

Our faith in reference to the messages of the first, second, and third angels was correct. The great way-marks we have passed are immovable. Although the hosts of hell may try to tear them from their foundation, and triumph in the thought that they have succeeded, yet they do not succeed. These pillars of truth stand firm as the ETERNAL hills, unmoved by all the efforts of men combined with those of Satan and his host. We can learn much, and should be constantly searching the SCRIPTURES to see if these things are so. GOD’S people are now to have their eyes fixed on the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where the final ministration of our great HIGH PRIEST in the work of the judgment is going forward,–where he is interceding for his people. {RH, November 27, 1883 par. 10}

THE PROFESSED CHURCH OF CHRIST HAS WANDERED FROM HER PRIVILEGE, HER DUTY, AND HER GOD. Like ancient Israel, she has forsaken the covenant, and joined herself in harmony with the world. Pride, luxury, and pleasure are invited into the SANCTUARY, and her HOLY PLACES are defiled. Those who have pledged their allegiance to GOD, enjoy the company and spirit of his avowed enemies. Their choice determines their character. Strong is the LORD GOD who judgeth them. {ST, October 4, 1883 par. 22}

We are standing as a brand in the burning. What a position we are in! The whole world is in darkness. Deception is prevalent everywhere; and here is the remnant church taking its stand on an important truth. I wrote these great truths out in my fourth volume, I felt that we are not ready and I said to my SON, I must go. He argued that I ought not, when my health was so poor, but I felt that I must go and talk once more at our meetings. If I could only tell you how my heart is stirred when I feel that the time is at hand, and so many are unprepared. We have no time to devote to frivolity, to backsliding from GOD. We must be preparing to walk through time and eternity. The work is going on in the SANCTUARY, yet how sensual, how sleepy, how indifferent we are. How much our young men and our young women could do! What rich experience they could have! It seems sometimes as if there were a paralysis upon our people; that they do not realize how near they are to the end of the earth. We need more standard-bearers. We need more missionaries to go forth into the world. {ST, November 22, 1883 par. 2}

ALL WHO WOULD FORM CHARACTERS FOR HEAVEN MUST BE BIBLE CHRISTIANS. THEY MUST BE DILIGENT IN THE STUDY OF THE CHART OF LIFE, and must carefully and prayerfully examine the motives that prompt them to action. The business world does not lie outside the limits of GOD’S government. TRUE RELIGION IS NOT TO BE MERELY PARADED ON THE SABBATH, AND DISPLAYED IN THE SANCTUARY; IT IS FOR EVERY DAY AND FOR EVERY PLACE. Its claims must be recognized and obeyed in every act of life. Men who possess the genuine article will in all their business affairs show as clear a perception of right, as when offering their supplications at the THRONE OF GRACE. {ST, December 20, 1883 par. 14}

A thousand years before had the psalmist magnified GOD’S favor to Israel in making her holy house his dwelling-place: “In Salem is his TABERNACLE, and his dwelling-place in Zion.” [Psalm 76:2.] “He chose the tribe of Judah, the Mount Zion which he loved. And he built his SANCTUARY like high palaces.” [Psalm 78:68, 69.] The first temple had been erected during the most prosperous period of Israel’s history. Vast stores of treasure for this purpose had been collected by King David, and the plans for its construction were made by divine inspiration. Solomon, the wisest of Israel’s monarchs, had completed the work. This temple was the most magnificent building which the world ever saw. Yet the LORD had declared by the prophet Haggai, concerning the second temple, “The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former.” “I will shake all nations, and the Desire of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts.” [Haggai 2:9, 7.] {4SP 23.2 1884}

After the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar, it was rebuilt about five hundred years before the birth of CHRIST, by a people who from a lifelong captivity had returned to a wasted and almost deserted country. There were then among them aged men who had seen the glory of Solomon’s temple, and who wept at the foundation of the new building, that it must be so inferior to the former. The feeling that prevailed is forcibly described by the prophet: “Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?” [Haggai 2:3.] Then was given the promise that the glory of this latter house should be greater than of the former. {4SP 23.3 1884}

But the second temple had not equaled the first in magnificence; nor was it hallowed by those visible tokens of the divine presence which pertained to the first temple. There was no manifestation of supernatural power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen to fill the newly erected SANCTUARY. No fire from Heaven descended to consume the sacrifice upon its ALTAR. The SHEKINAH no longer abode between the CHERUBIM in the MOST HOLY PLACE; the ARK, the MERCY SEAT, and the tables of the testimony were not to be found therein. No voice sounded from Heaven to make known to the inquiring priest the will of JEHOVAH. {4SP 24.1 1884}

The leaders of the opposing factions at times united to plunder and torture their wretched victims, and again they fell upon each other’s forces, and slaughtered without mercy. Even the sanctity of the temple could not restrain their horrible ferocity. The worshipers were stricken down before the ALTAR, and the SANCTUARY was polluted with the bodies of the slain. Yet in their blind and blasphemous presumption the instigators of this hellish work publicly declared that they had no fear that Jerusalem would be destroyed, for it was GOD’S own city. To establish their power more firmly, they bribed false prophets to proclaim, even when Roman legions were besieging the temple, that the people were to wait for deliverance from GOD. To the last, multitudes held fast to the belief that the MOST HIGH would interpose for the defeat of their adversaries. But Israel had spurned the divine protection, and now she had no defense. Unhappy Jerusalem! rent by internal dissensions, the blood of her children, slain by one another’s hands, crimsoning her streets, while alien armies beat down her fortifications and slew her men of war! {4SP 30.1 1884}

The fire had not reached the holy house itself when Titus entered, and, beholding its unsurpassed splendor, he was impelled to a last effort for its preservation. But in his very presence, a soldier thrust a lighted torch between the hinges of the door, and in an instant the flames burst out within the SANCTUARY. As the red glare revealed the walls of the HOLY PLACES, glittering with gold, a frenzy seized the soldiers. Goaded on by a desire for plunder, and filled with rage by the resistance of the Jews, they were beyond control. {4SP 35.1 1884}

GOD had provided for his people a SANCTUARY of awful grandeur, befitting the mighty truths committed to their trust. To those faithful exiles the mountains were an emblem of the immutable righteousness of JEHOVAH. They pointed their children to the heights towering above them in unchanging majesty, and spoke to them of Him with whom there is no variableness nor shadow of turning, whose word is as enduring as the everlasting hills. GOD had set fast the mountains, and girded them with strength; no arm but that of infinite power could move them out of their place. In like manner had he established HIS LAW, the foundation of his government in Heaven and upon earth. The arm of man might reach his fellow-men and destroy their lives; but that arm could as readily uproot the mountains from their foundations, and hurl them into the sea, as it could change one precept of the LAW OF JEHOVAH, or blot out one of his promises to those who do his will. In their fidelity to HIS LAW, GOD’S servants should be as firm as the unchanging hills. {4SP 71.1 1884}

Since the rejection of the first message, a sad change has taken place in the churches. As truth is spurned, error is received and cherished. LOVE FOR GOD, AND FAITH IN HIS WORD, HAVE GROWN COLD. THE CHURCHES HAVE GRIEVED THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD, AND IT HAS BEEN IN A GREAT MEASURE WITHDRAWN. The words of the prophet Ezekiel are fearfully applicable: “SON OF MAN, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumbling-block of their iniquity before their face. Should I be inquired of at all by them?” “I the LORD will answer him that cometh according to the multitude of his idols.” [Ezekiel 14:3, 4.] Men may not bow down to idols of wood and stone, but all who love the things of the world and take pleasure in unrighteousness have set up idols in their hearts. THE MAJORITY OF PROFESSED CHRISTIANS ARE SERVING OTHER GODS BESIDES THE LORD. PRIDE AND LUXURY ARE CHERISHED, IDOLS ARE SET UP IN THE SANCTUARY, AND HER HOLY PLACES ARE POLLUTED. {4SP 237.3 1884}

Chapter XVIII. – The SANCTUARY.

The SCRIPTURE which above all others had been both the foundation and central pillar of the Advent faith was the declaration, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” [Daniel 8:14.] These had been familiar words to all believers in the LORD’S soon coming. By the lips of thousands was this prophecy joyfully repeated as the watchword of their faith. All felt that upon the events therein brought to view depended their brightest expectations and most cherished hopes. These prophetic days had been shown to terminate in the autumn of 1844. In common with the rest of the Christian world, Adventists then held that the earth, or some portion of it, was the SANCTUARY, and that the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY was the purification of the earth by the fires of the last great day. This they understood would take place at the SECOND COMING of CHRIST. Hence the conclusion that CHRIST would return to the earth in 1844. {4SP 258.1 1884}

But the appointed time came, and the LORD did not appear. The believers knew that GOD’S WORD could not fail; their interpretation of the prophecy must be at fault; but where was the mistake? Many rashly cut the knot of difficulty by denying that the 2300 days ended in 1844. No reason could be given for this position, except that CHRIST had not come at the time of expectation. They argued that if the prophetic days had ended in 1844, CHRIST would then have come to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY by the purification of the earth by fire; and that since he had not come, the days could not have ended. {4SP 258.2 1884}

To accept this conclusion was to renounce the former reckoning of the prophetic periods, and involve the whole question in confusion. It was a deliberate surrender of positions which had been reached through earnest, prayerful study of the SCRIPTURES, by minds enlightened by the SPIRIT OF GOD, and hearts burning with its living power; positions which had withstood the most searching criticism and the most bitter opposition of popular religionists and worldly-wise men, and which had stood firm against the combined forces of learning and eloquence, and the taunts and revilings alike of the honorable and the base. And all this sacrifice was made in order to maintain the theory that the earth is the SANCTUARY. {4SP 259.1 1884}

GOD had led his people in the great Advent movement; his power and glory had attended the work, and he would not permit it to end in darkness and disappointment, to be reproached as a false and fanatical excitement. He would not leave his word involved in doubt and uncertainty. Though the majority of Adventists abandoned their former reckoning of the prophetic periods, and consequently denied the correctness of the movement based thereon, a few were unwilling to renounce points of faith and experience that were sustained by the SCRIPTURES and by the special witness of the SPIRIT OF GOD. They believed that they had adopted sound principles of interpretation in their study of the SCRIPTURES, and that it was their duty to hold fast the truths already gained, and to still pursue the same course of Biblical research. With earnest prayer they reviewed their position, and studied the SCRIPTURES to discover their mistake. As they could see no error in their explanation of the prophetic periods, they were led to examine more closely the subject of the SANCTUARY. {4SP 259.2 1884}

In their investigation they learned, that the earthly SANCTUARY, built by Moses at the command of GOD, according to the pattern shown him in the mount, was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” that its TWO HOLY PLACES were “patterns of things in the heavens;” that CHRIST, our great HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man;” that “CHRIST is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us.” [Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2; 9:24.] {4SP 260.1 1884}

The SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN, in which JESUS ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the SANCTUARY built by Moses was a copy. GOD placed HIS SPIRIT upon the builders of the earthly SANCTUARY. The artistic skill displayed in its construction was a manifestation of divine wisdom. The walls had the appearance of massive gold, reflecting in every direction the light of the SEVEN LAMPS of the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK. The TABLE OF SHEWBREAD and the ALTAR OF INCENSE glittered like burnished gold. The gorgeous CURTAIN which formed the ceiling, inwrought with figures of angels in blue and purple and scarlet, added to the beauty of the scene. And beyond the SECOND VEIL was the HOLY SHEKINAH, the visible manifestation of GOD’S glory, before which none but the high priest could enter and live. The matchless splendor of the earthly TABERNACLE reflected to human vision the glories of that HEAVENLY TEMPLE where CHRIST our forerunner ministers for us before the THRONE of GOD. {4SP 260.2 1884}

As the SANCTUARY on earth had TWO APARTMENTS, the HOLY and the MOST HOLY, so there are TWO HOLY PLACES in the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. And the ARK containing the LAW OF GOD, the ALTAR OF INCENSE, and other instruments of service found in the SANCTUARY below, have also their counterpart in the SANCTUARY above. In holy vision the apostle John was permitted to enter Heaven, and he there beheld the CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR OF INCENSE, and as “the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened,” he beheld also “the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” [Revelation 4:5; 8:3; Revelation 11:19.] {4SP 261.1 1884}

Those who were seeking for the truth found indisputable proof of the existence of a SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. Moses made the earthly SANCTUARY after a pattern which was shown him. Paul declares that that pattern was the true SANCTUARY which is in Heaven. John testifies that he saw it in Heaven. {4SP 261.2 1884}

In the temple in Heaven, the dwelling-place of GOD, his THRONE is established in righteousness and judgment. In the MOST HOLY PLACE is HIS LAW, the great rule of right by which all mankind are tested. The ARK that enshrines the tables of the law is covered with the MERCY SEAT, before which CHRIST pleads his blood in the sinner’s behalf. Thus is represented the union of justice and mercy in the plan of human redemption. This union infinite wisdom alone could devise, and infinite power accomplish; it is a union that fills all Heaven with wonder and adoration. The CHERUBIM of the earthly SANCTUARY looking reverently down upon the MERCY SEAT, represent the interest with which the heavenly host contemplate the work of redemption. This is the mystery of mercy into which angels desire to look,–that GOD can be just while he justifies the repenting sinner, and renews his intercourse with the fallen race; that CHRIST could stoop to raise unnumbered multitudes from the abyss of ruin, and clothe them with the spotless garments of his own righteousness, to unite with angels who have never fallen, and to dwell forever in the presence of GOD. {4SP 261.3 1884}

At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, no SANCTUARY had existed on earth for many centuries; therefore the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN must be the one brought to view in the declaration, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” But how could a SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN need CLEANSING? Turning again to the SCRIPTURES, the students of prophecy learned that the CLEANSING was not a removal of physical impurities, for it was to be accomplished with blood, and therefore must be a CLEANSING from sin. Thus says the apostle: “It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the Heavens should be purified with these [the blood of animals]; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these [even the precious BLOOD OF CHRIST].” [Hebrews 9:23.] To obtain a further knowledge of the CLEANSING to which the prophecy points, it was necessary to understand the ministration of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. This could be learned only from the ministration of the earthly SANCTUARY; for Paul declares that the priests who officiated there served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” [Hebrews 8:5.] {4SP 262.1 1884}

The ministration of the earthly SANCTUARY consisted of two divisions: the priests ministered daily in the HOLY PLACE, while once a year the high priest performed a special work of ATONEMENT in the MOST HOLY, for the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the TABERNACLE, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them to the innocent sacrifice. The animal was then slain, and the blood or the flesh was carried by the priest into the HOLY PLACE. Thus the sin was, in figure, transferred to the SANCTUARY. Such was the work that went forward throughout the year. The continual transfer of sins to the SANCTUARY, rendered a further work of ministration necessary in order for their removal. On the tenth day of the seventh month the high priest entered the INNER APARTMENT, or MOST HOLY PLACE, which he was forbidden, on pain of death, to enter at any other time. The CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY then performed completed the yearly round of service. {4SP 263.1 1884}

On the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the TABERNACLE, and lots were cast upon them, “one lot for the LORD, and the other lot for the scape-goat.” The goat upon which fell the lot for the LORD was to be slain as a sin-offering for the people. And the priest was to bring his blood within the VEIL, and sprinkle it upon the MERCY SEAT, and before the MERCY SEAT. “And he shall make an ATONEMENT for the HOLY PLACE, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins; and so shall he do for the TABERNACLE of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.” [Leviticus 16:8, 16.] {4SP 263.2 1884}

And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness; and the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited.” [Leviticus 16:21, 22.] The scape-goat came no more into the camp of Israel, and the man who led him away was required to wash himself and his clothing with water before returning to the camp. {4SP 264.1 1884}

The whole ceremony was designed to impress the Israelites with the HOLINESS OF GOD and his abhorrence of sin, and, further, to show them that they could not come in contact with sin without becoming polluted. Every man was required to afflict his soul while this work of ATONEMENT was going forward. All business was laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel spent the day in solemn humiliation before GOD, with prayer, fasting, and deep searching of heart. {4SP 264.2 1884}

Important truths concerning the ATONEMENT may be learned from the typical service. A substitute was accepted in the sinner’s stead; but the sin was not canceled by the blood of the victim. A means was thus provided by which it was transferred to the SANCTUARY. By the offering of blood, the sinner acknowledged the authority of the law, confessed his guilt in transgression, and expressed his desire for pardon through faith in a REDEEMER to come; but he was not yet entirely released from the condemnation of the law. On the DAY OF ATONEMENT the high priest, having taken an offering from the congregation, went into the MOST HOLY PLACE with the blood of this general offering, and sprinkled it upon the MERCY SEAT, directly over the law, to make satisfaction for its claims. Then, in his character of MEDIATOR, he took the sins upon himself, and bore them from the SANCTUARY. Placing his hands upon the head of the scape-goat, he confessed over him all these sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the goat. The goat then bore them away, and they were regarded as forever separated from the people. {4SP 265.1 1884}

Such was the service performed “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” And what was done in type in the ministration of the earthly, is done in reality in the ministration of the heavenly. After his ascension, our SAVIOUR began his work as our high priest. Says Paul, “CHRIST is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us.” [Hebrews 9:24.] In harmony with the typical service, he began his ministration in the HOLY PLACE, and at the termination of the prophetic days in 1844, as foretold by Daniel the prophet, he entered the MOST HOLY to perform the last division of his solemn work,–to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. {4SP 265.2 1884}

As the sins of the people were anciently transferred, in figure, to the earthly SANCTUARY by the blood of the sin-offering, so our sins are, in fact, transferred to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY by the BLOOD OF CHRIST. And as the typical CLEANSING of the earthly was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual CLEANSING of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded. This necessitates an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in CHRIST, are entitled to the benefits of HIS ATONEMENT. The CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY therefore involves a work of INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT. This work must be performed prior to the coming of CHRIST to redeem his people; for when he comes, his reward is with him to give to every man according to his works. [Revelation 22:12.] {4SP 266.1 1884}

Thus those who followed in the advancing light of the prophetic word saw that instead of coming to the earth at the termination of the 2300 days in 1844, CHRIST then entered the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, into the presence of GOD, to perform the closing work of ATONEMENT, preparatory to his coming. {4SP 266.2 1884}

It was seen, also, that while the sin-offering pointed to CHRIST as a sacrifice, and the high priest represented CHRIST as a MEDIATOR, the scape-goat typified Satan, the author of sin, upon whom the sins of the truly penitent will finally be placed. When the high priest, by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, removed the sins from the SANCTUARY, he placed them upon the scape-goat. When CHRIST, by virtue of his own blood, removes the sins of his people from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY at the close of his ministration, he will place them upon Satan, who, in the execution of the judgment, must bear the final penalty. The scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, never to come again into the congregation of Israel. So will Satan be forever banished from the presence of GOD and his people, and he will be blotted from existence in the final destruction of sin and sinners. {4SP 266.3 1884}

Chapter XIX. – An Open and a Shut Door.

The subject of the SANCTUARY was the key which unlocked the mystery of the disappointment, showing that GOD had led his people in the great Advent movement. It opened to view a complete system of truth, connected and harmonious, and revealed present duty as it brought to light the position and work of GOD’S people. {4SP 268.1 1884} {GC88 423 1888}

After the passing of the time of expectation, in 1844, Adventists still believed the SAVIOUR’S coming to be very near; they held that they had reached an important crisis, and that the work of CHRIST as man’s INTERCESSOR before GOD, had ceased. Having given the warning of the Judgment near, they felt that their work for the world was done, and they lost their burden of soul for the salvation of sinners, while the bold and blasphemous scoffing of the ungodly seemed to them another evidence that the SPIRIT OF GOD had been withdrawn from the rejecters of his mercy. All this confirmed them in the belief that probation had ended, or, as they then expressed it, “the door of mercy was shut.” {4SP 268.2 1884}

But clearer light came with the investigation of the SANCTUARY question. Now was seen the application of those words of CHRIST in the Revelation, addressed to the church at this very time: “These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth; I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] Here an open as well as a SHUT DOOR is brought to view. At the termination of the 2300 prophetic days in 1844, CHRIST changed his ministration from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY PLACE. When, in the ministration of the earthly SANCTUARY, the high priest on the DAY OF ATONEMENT entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, the door of the HOLY PLACE was closed, and the door of the MOST HOLY was opened. So, when CHRIST passed from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, the door, or ministration, of the former APARTMENT was closed, and the door, or ministration, of the latter was opened. CHRIST had ended one part of his work as our INTERCESSOR, to enter upon another portion of the work; and he still presented his blood before the FATHER in behalf of sinners. “Behold,” he declares, “I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” {4SP 268.3 1884}

Those who by faith follow JESUS in the great work of the ATONEMENT, receive the benefits of his MEDIATION in their behalf; but those who reject the light that brings to view this work of ministration, are not benefited thereby. The Jews who rejected the light given at CHRIST’S first advent, and refused to believe in him as the SAVIOUR of the world, could not receive pardon through him. When JESUS at his ascension entered by his own blood into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to shed upon his disciples the blessings of his MEDIATION, the Jews were left in total darkness, to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows had ceased. That door by which men had formerly found access to GOD, was no longer open. The Jews had refused to seek him in the only way whereby he could then be found, through the ministration in the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. Therefore they found no communion with GOD. To them the door was shut. They had no knowledge of CHRIST as the true sacrifice and the only MEDIATOR before GOD; hence they could not receive the benefits of his MEDIATION. {4SP 269.1 1884}

The condition of the unbelieving Jews illustrates the condition of the careless and unbelieving among professed Christians, who are willingly ignorant of the work of our merciful HIGH PRIEST. In the typical service, when the high priest entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, all Israel were required to gather about the SANCTUARY, and in the most solemn manner humble their souls before GOD, that they might receive the pardon of their sins, and not be cut off from the congregation. How much more essential in this anti-typical DAY OF ATONEMENT that we understand the work of our HIGH PRIEST, and know what duties are required of us. {4SP 270.1 1884}

Men cannot with impunity reject the warnings which GOD in mercy sends them. A message was sent from Heaven to the world in Noah’s day, and their salvation depended upon the manner in which they treated that message. Because they rejected the warning, the SPIRIT OF GOD was withdrawn from that sinful race, and they perished in the waters of the flood. In the time of Abraham, mercy ceased to plead with the guilty inhabitants of Sodom, and all but Lot with his wife and two daughters were consumed by the fire sent down from heaven. So in the days of CHRIST. The SON OF GOD declared to the unbelieving Jews of that generation, “Your house is left unto you desolate.” [Matthew 23:38.] Looking down to the last days, the same infinite power declares, concerning those who “received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” “For this cause GOD shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” [2 Thessalonians 2:10-12.] As they reject the teachings of his word, GOD withdraws HIS SPIRIT, and leaves them to the deceptions which they love. {4SP 270.2 1884}

But CHRIST still intercedes in man’s behalf, and light will be given to those who seek it. Though this was not at first understood by Adventists, it was afterward made plain as the SCRIPTURES which define their true position began to open before them. {4SP 271.1 1884}

The passing of the time in 1844 was followed by a period of great trial to those who still held the Advent faith. Their only relief, so far as ascertaining their true position was concerned, was the light which directed their minds to the SANCTUARY above. As has been stated, Adventists were for a short time united in the belief that the door of mercy was shut. This position was soon abandoned. Some renounced their faith in their former reckoning of the prophetic periods, and ascribed to human or Satanic agencies the powerful influence of the HOLY SPIRIT which had attended the Advent movement. Another class firmly held that the LORD had led them in their past experience; and as they waited and watched and prayed to know the will of GOD, they saw that their great HIGH PRIEST had entered upon another work of ministration, and, following him by faith, they were led to understand also the closing work of the church, and were prepared to receive and give to the world the warning of the third angel of Revelation 14. {4SP 271.2 1884}

Chapter XX. – The Third Angel’s Message.

When CHRIST entered the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT, he committed to his servants the last message of mercy to be given to the world. Such is the warning of the third angel of Revelation 14. Immediately following its proclamation, the SON OF MAN is seen by the prophet coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth. {4SP 273.1 1884}

As foretold in the SCRIPTURES, the ministration of CHRIST in the MOST HOLY PLACE began at the termination of the prophetic days in 1844. To this time apply the words of the Revelator, “The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in Heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” [Revelation 11:19] The ARK OF GOD’S testament is in the SECOND APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY. As CHRIST entered there, to minister in the sinner’s behalf, the INNER TEMPLE was opened, and the ARK OF GOD was brought to view. To those who by faith beheld the SAVIOUR in his work of intercession, GOD’S majesty and power were revealed. As the train of his glory filled the temple, light from the HOLY OF HOLIES was shed upon his waiting people on the earth. {4SP 273.2 1884}

They had by faith followed their HIGH PRIEST from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY, and they saw him pleading his blood before the ARK OF GOD. Within that SACRED ARK is the FATHER’S LAW, the same that was spoken by GOD himself amid the thunders of Sinai, and written with HIS OWN FINGER on the TABLES OF STONE. Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. While GOD gave to Moses a copy of HIS LAW, he preserved the great original in the SANCTUARY above. Tracing down its HOLY PRECEPTS, the seekers for truth found, in the very BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE, the FOURTH COMMANDMENT, as it was first proclaimed: “Remember the SABBATH day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the SABBATH of the LORD thy GOD: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy SON, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the LORD blessed the SABBATH day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.] {4SP 273.3 1884}

The SPIRIT OF GOD impressed the hearts of these students of his word. The conviction was urged upon them, that they had ignorantly transgressed the FOURTH COMMANDMENT by disregarding the CREATOR’S rest-day. They began to examine the reasons for observing the first day of the week instead of the day which GOD had sanctified. They could find no evidence in the SCRIPTURES that the FOURTH COMMANDMENT had been abolished, or that the SABBATH had been changed; the blessing which first hallowed the seventh day had never been removed. They had been honestly seeking to know and do GOD’S will, and now, as they saw themselves transgressors of HIS LAW, sorrow filled their hearts. They at once evinced their loyalty to GOD by keeping his SABBATH HOLY. {4SP 274.1 1884}

Many and earnest were the efforts made to overthrow their faith. None could fail to see that if the earthly SANCTUARY was a figure or pattern of the heavenly, the law deposited in the ARK on earth was an exact transcript of the law in the ARK in Heaven, and that an acceptance of the truth concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY involved an acknowledgment of the claims of GOD’S LAW, and the obligation of the SABBATH of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT. Here was the secret of the bitter and determined opposition to the harmonious exposition of the SCRIPTURES that brought to view the ministration of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. How hard men tried to close the door which GOD had opened, and to open the door which he had closed! But “He that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth,” had declared, “Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] CHRIST had opened the door, or ministration, of the MOST HOLY PLACE, light was shining from that open door of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN, and the FOURTH COMMANDMENT was shown to be included in the law within the ARK; what GOD had established, no man could overthrow. {4SP 275.1 1884}

Those who had accepted the light concerning the MEDIATION of CHRIST and the perpetuity of the LAW OF GOD, found that these were the truths brought to view in the third message. The angel declares, “Here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS.” This statement is preceded by a solemn and fearful warning: “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the WRATH OF GOD, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.” [Revelation 14:9, 10.] An interpretation of the symbols employed was necessary to an understanding of this message. What was represented by the beast, the image, and the mark? Again those who were seeking for the truth returned to the study of the prophecies. {4SP 275.2 1884}

Such were the momentous truths that opened before those who received the third angel’s message. As they reviewed their experience from the first proclamation of the second advent to the passing of the time in 1844, they saw their disappointment explained, and hope and joy again animated their hearts. Light from the SANCTUARY illuminated the past, the present, and the future, and they knew that GOD had led them by his unerring providence. Now with new courage and firmer faith, they joined in giving the warning of the third angel. {4SP 283.1 1884}

As the majority of Adventists rejected the truths concerning the SANCTUARY and the LAW OF GOD, many also renounced their faith in the Advent movement, and adopted unsound and conflicting views of the prophecies which applied to that work. Some were led into the error of repeated time-setting. The light of the third message would have shown them that no prophetic period extends to the coming of CHRIST; that the exact time of his coming is not foretold. But, turning from the light, they continued to set time after time for the LORD to come, and as often were disappointed. {4SP 290.1 1884}

Those who would share the benefits of the SAVIOUR’S MEDIATION should permit nothing to interfere with their duty to perfect holiness in the fear of GOD. The hours heretofore given to pleasure, to display, or to gain-seeking, should now be devoted to an earnest, prayerful study of the word of truth. THE SUBJECT OF THE SANCTUARY AND THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT SHOULD BE CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD BY THE PEOPLE OF GOD. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great HIGH PRIEST. Otherwise, it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith essential at this time, or to occupy the position which GOD designs them to fill. [Every individual has a soul to save or to lose. Each has a case pending at the bar of GOD. Each must meet the great Judge face to face. How important, then, that every mind contemplate often the solemn scene when the Judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, when, with Daniel, every individual must stand in his lot, at the end of the days.] {4SP 312.3 1884} {GC88 488.2 1888 with [] added}

We are to bear testimony of the great truths which GOD has committed to us. THE SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN IS THE VERY CENTER OF CHRIST’S WORK IN BEHALF OF MEN. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to our view the PLAN OF REDEMPTION, bringing us down to the very close of time, and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin. It is of the utmost importance that all who have received the light, both old and young, should thoroughly investigate these subjects, and be able to give an answer to every one that asketh them a reason of the hope that is in them. {4SP 313.1 1884}

The intercession of CHRIST in man’s behalf in the SANCTUARY above is as essential to the PLAN OF SALVATION as was his death upon the cross. By his death he began that work which after his resurrection he ascended to complete in Heaven. We must by faith enter within the VEIL, “whither the forerunner is for us entered.” There the light from the cross of Calvary is reflected. There we may gain a clearer insight into the mysteries of redemption. The salvation of man is accomplished at an infinite expense to Heaven; the sacrifice made is equal to the broadest demands of the broken LAW OF GOD. JESUS has opened the way to the FATHER’S THRONE, and through his MEDIATION the sincere desire of all who come to him in faith may be presented before GOD. {4SP 313.2 1884}

Solemn are the scenes connected with the closing work of the ATONEMENT. Momentous are the interests therein involved. The Judgment is now passing in the SANCTUARY above. Forty years has this work been in progress. Soon–none know how soon–it will pass to the cases of the living. In the awful presence of GOD our lives are to come up in review. At this time above all others it behooves every soul to heed the SAVIOUR’S admonition, “Watch and pray, for ye know not when the time is.” “Watch ye therefore, . . . lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.” [Mark 13:33, 35, 36.] {4SP 314.3 1884}

Says the great deceiver: “We must watch those who are calling the attention of the people to the SABBATH of JEHOVAH; they will lead many to see the claims of the LAW OF GOD; and the same light which reveals the true SABBATH, reveals also the ministration of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and shows that the last work for man’s salvation is now going forward. Hold the minds of the people in darkness till that work is ended, and we shall secure the world and the church also. {4SP 337.2 1884}

But as long as JESUS remains man’s INTERCESSOR in the SANCTUARY above, the restraining influence of the HOLY SPIRIT is felt by rulers and people. It still controls, to some extent, the laws of the land. Were it not for these laws, the condition of the world would be much worse than it now is. While many of our rulers are active agents of Satan, GOD also has his agents among the leading men of the nation. The enemy moves upon his servants to propose measures that would greatly impede the work of GOD; but statesmen who fear the LORD are influenced by holy angels to oppose such propositions with unanswerable arguments. Thus a few men will hold in check a powerful current of evil. The opposition of the enemies of truth will be restrained that the third message may do its work. When the loud cry shall be given, it will arrest the attention of these leading men through whom the LORD is now working, and some of them will accept it, and will stand with the people of GOD through the TIME OF TROUBLE. {4SP 429.1 1884} {GC88 610.2 1888}

When the third message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of GOD have accomplished their work; they have received the latter rain, or the refreshing from the presence of the LORD, and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hurrying to and fro in Heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done, that the SEAL OF GOD has been placed upon his people. Then JESUS ceases his intercession in the SANCTUARY above. He lifts his hands, and with a loud voice says, “It is done;” and all the angelic host lay off their crowns as he makes the solemn announcement: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” [Revelation 22:11] Every case has been decided for life or death. CHRIST has made the ATONEMENT for his people, and blotted out their sins. The number of his subjects is made up; “the kingdom and dominion and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,” is about to be given to the heirs of salvation, and JESUS is to reign as KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. {4SP 431.2 1884}

When he leaves the SANCTUARY, darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a HOLY GOD without an INTERCESSOR. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. The power attending the last warning has enraged them, and their anger is kindled against all who have received the message. The people of GOD are then plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE: {4SP 432.1 1884}

Thus saith the LORD: We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace.” “All faces are turned into paleness. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE; but he shall be saved out of it.” [Jeremiah 30:5-7.] {4SP 432.2 1884}

As Satan influenced Esau to march against Jacob, so he will stir up the wicked to destroy GOD’S people in the TIME OF TROUBLE. And as he accused Jacob, he will urge his accusations against the people of GOD. He numbers the world as his subjects; but the little company who keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. He sees that holy angels are guarding them, and he infers that their sins have been pardoned; but he does not know that their cases have been decided in the SANCTUARY above. He has an accurate knowledge of the sins which he has tempted them to commit, and he presents these before GOD in the most exaggerated light, representing this people to be just as deserving as himself of exclusion from the favor of GOD. He declares that the LORD cannot in justice forgive their sins, and yet destroy him and his angels. He claims them as his prey, and demands that they be given into his hands to destroy. {4SP 435.1 1884}

The mark of deliverance has been set upon those “that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done.” Now the angel of death goes forth, represented in Ezekiel’s vision by the men with the slaughtering weapons, to whom the command is given: “Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women; but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY.” Says the prophet, “They began at the ancient men which were before the house.” [Ezekiel 9:6.] The work of destruction begins among those who profess to be the SPIRITUAL guardians of the people. The false shepherds are the first to fall. There are none to pity or to spare. Men, women, maidens, and little children perish together. {4SP 473.1 1884}

JESUS is our SAVIOUR today. He is pleading for us in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and he will forgive our sins. It makes all the difference in the world with us SPIRITUALLY whether we rely upon GOD without doubt, as upon a sure foundation, or whether we are seeking to find some righteousness in ourselves before we come to him. Look away from self to the LAMB OF GOD, that taketh away the sin of the world. It is a sin to doubt. The least unbelief, if cherished in the heart, involves the soul in guilt, and brings great darkness and discouragement. It is saying that the LORD is false; that he will not do as he has promised; and he is greatly dishonored. Some have cherished doubts, discontent, and a disposition to be on the wrong side, until they love doubts, and seem to think it is praiseworthy to be on the side of the doubting. But when the believing ones shall receive the end of their faith, even the salvation of their souls, the doubting ones, who have sowed unbelief, will reap that which they have sown, and a pitiful, undesirable harvest it will be. {RH, April 22, 1884 par. 6}

We are now living in the antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT. The great and solemn closing work is going forward in the SANCTUARY above. Every man is required to afflict his soul before GOD; every heart is required to be in harmony with the divine will. In this important time the great enemy intercepts himself between man and his CREATOR. He is continually seeking to separate the people of GOD from the love of JESUS, to draw them away from his protecting care. He it is that inclines the human soul unto vanity. He leads men to gather attention to themselves, and to receive praise and honor that should be given to GOD. And the greatest trials that men meet come in consequence of their blindness to Satan’s temptations. {RH, August 12, 1884 par. 5}

Each one in the DAY OF INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT will stand in character as he really is; he will render an individual account to GOD. Every word uttered, every departure from integrity, every action that sullies the soul, will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. Memory will be true and vivid in condemnation of the guilty one, who in that day is found wanting. The mind will recall all the thoughts and acts of the past; the whole life will come in review like the scenes in a panorama. Thus every one will be condemned or acquitted out of his own mouth, and the righteousness of GOD will be vindicated. {RH, November 4, 1884 par. 11}

Now look at the opposite picture. There stands one to whom GOD has intrusted precious talents. He is familiar with the SCRIPTURES, but his heart has never been sanctified through the truths they teach. His affections have never been entwined about GOD, but are like the vine trailing upon the ground, its tendrils grasping the stumps and rubbish of earth. His entire character is marked by a littleness, an earthliness, a debasement, which testifies to those who observe his ways that the SPIRIT OF TRUTH has not entered the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, and CLEANSED it of its defilement. {RH, November 4, 1884 par. 16}

Brethren, 1884 is almost gone. Improve its few remaining moments in making restitution for wrongs. Make thorough work for eternity. Every act, every word, must stand the test of the Judgment. Set your hearts in order. Set your house in order. Make thorough work while JESUS is ministering in the SANCTUARY. Let not these appeals be given in vain. GOD’S treasury has been robbed of thousands of dollars, and this neglect stands registered against you in the books of heaven. {RH, December 16, 1884 par. 22}

Oh! sing unto the LORD a new song; sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; show forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nation are idols; but the LORD made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his SANCTUARY. Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts. Oh! worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness; fear before him, all the earth. Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth; the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved; he shall judge the people righteously. Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fullness thereof. Let the field be joyful and all that is therein; then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice before the LORD; for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth; he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.” {RH, December 23, 1884 par. 1}

Satan had been defeated again and again; and now with deeper malice and greater cunning, he proceeded to devise a still more subtle and dangerous snare for the servant of GOD. Sanballat and his companions were moved to hire men, professing to be friends of Nehemiah, to give him evil counsel as the word of the LORD. The principal person engaged in this nefarious work was one Shemaiah, who had previously been held in good repute by Nehemiah. This man shut himself up in a chamber near the SANCTUARY, as if fearing that his life was in danger, and thither Nehemiah went to consult with him as one who was especially favored of GOD. The temple was at this time protected by walls and gates, while the gates of the city were not yet set up. This deceiver therefore professed great concern for Nehemiah’s safety, and counseled him to seek shelter in the temple: “Let us meet together in the HOUSE OF GOD, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple; for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee.” The hero’s fearless answer was, “Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.” {ST, January 3, 1884 par. 5}

Provision was also made to support the public WORSHIP OF GOD. A pledge was given by the congregation to contribute yearly a stated sum for the service of the SANCTUARY, as well as to bring the tithes and the “firstfruits of our ground, and the firstfruits of all fruit of all trees, year by year, unto the house of the LORD, also the firstborn of our sons, and of our cattle, as it is written in the law, and the firstlings of our herds and of our flocks, to bring to the house of our GOD.” {ST, January 10, 1884 par. 18}

We are living in the great antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT. JESUS is now in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, making reconciliation for the sins of his people, and the judgment of the righteous dead has been going on almost forty years. How soon the cases of the living will come in review before this tribunal we know not; but we do know that we are living in the closing scenes of earth’s history, standing, as it were, on the very borders of the ETERNAL world. It is important that each of us inquire, How stands my case in the courts of Heaven? Will my sins be blotted out? Am I defective in character, and so blinded to these defects by the customs and opinions of the world, that sin does not appear to me to be as exceedingly offensive to GOD as it really is? It is no time now to allow our minds to be absorbed with the things of earth, while we give only occasional thoughts to GOD, and make but slight preparation for the country to which we are journeying. {ST, May 29, 1884 par. 3}

The ambitious man seeks for position, honor, and power. He gains his object, and sinks into the grave. The world applauds him, and calls him a successful man; but, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, he is pronounced wanting, and it is too late to redeem his failure. He has gratified vanity and chased illusions, and in the books of Heaven ETERNAL loss is put down opposite his name. {ST, July 3, 1884 par. 15}

The LORD’S people are in the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, and just such a work as is reported being done in Healdsburg will go to every church in our land. They will occupy the same position as did the congregation of Israel in the type. They were waiting with humble hearts for the coming out of the HIGH PRIEST from the MOST HOLY PLACE to bless the people. They were confessing their sins, and these sins were borne into the SANCTUARY and the ATONEMENT was being made in behalf of the sinner. In the place of GOD’S people now being so self-satisfied because so continually occupied in the service and busy working of the cause, these very responsibilities should drive them to prayer and deep, earnest, SPIRITUAL heartsearching, that no sin may remain unconfessed and that no sin may be cherished and practiced by them. GOD reads the heart and the purpose of every soul. He knows the works of all. {Lt35-1885}

There are many who have professions of faith and doctrines who are not converted; and unless they shall humble their hearts before GOD, and bring the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, they will not represent JESUS, but dishonor His name and make of none effect the truth of GOD. They talk much about the power of the enemy, but do not bring their minds to GOD. Now if you will open your hearts to the truth, then your understanding will be clear, and you can present the truth to others. But if there are doubts and unbelief entertained, CHRIST cannot bring His light and the glory of His presence into your souls. Cannot you now begin to cultivate faith, and talk of the mercies of GOD, and praise GOD with all your hearts? It is by prayer that you will receive strength to resist temptation. CHRIST will supply your wants and relieve your doubts and fill your soul with gladness. {Ms4-1885}

Their language, both spoken and written, is very defective. Their accounts are so imperfectly kept that it is difficult to settle them. An unnatural manner of speaking destroys the melody of the voice. Uncouth attitudes and gestures detract from the force of the truth they present to the people. These persons might through the grace given them, become entirely different, both in manner and character. A few weeks or months of vigilant self-culture—of close, critical inspection of self, with earnest effort to correct every fault and supply every deficiency, to purify the soul and meet the perfect Pattern—would separate gross elements from them. Defects have been fostered by careless training. Let these workers read the LORD’S directions concerning His work in connection with the SANCTUARY; what care was manifested that it should be done with precision! {Ms37-1885}

Many and determined efforts were made to overthrow the faith of those who would build up the old waste places, and heal the breach which had been made in the LAW OF GOD. How hard Satan and men tried to close the door which had been opened into the SANCTUARY where JESUS had entered to make ATONEMENT for his people, and where the humble, faithful ones followed him by faith. CHRIST had opened the door, or ministration, of the MOST HOLY PLACE, and light was shining from the open door that all who desired might see the claims of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT, and believe. GOD had established HIS LAW, and not one jot or tittle of it was to be annulled. {PrT, November 3, 1885 par. 5}

It is in this time of probation that we are to prepare either for ETERNAL life in glory, or for perdition. It is here that we are engaged in the work of character-building; and if we succeed, we shall merit from the MASTER the welcome, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” CHRIST has gone into the MOST HOLY department, and has left us word to watch and pray, lest he return suddenly and find us sleeping. The character which we are now making will come in review before GOD before CHRIST leaves the SANCTUARY. Here GOD will see what characters we have been building for time and eternity. How shall we stand before the great ETERNAL? How many sheaves will we have brought to the MASTER through our earnest efforts? {RH, August 18, 1885 par. 9}

We should not allow our habits to become loose and dilatory while we are engaged in GOD’S work. All should be prompt, sharp business men in his cause. With a little more study and punctuality, much time could be saved in our Conference business meetings, and many mistakes avoided. Everything that bears any relation to the work and cause of GOD should be as near perfection as human brains and human hands can make it. GOD is not pleased with the present lack of order and accuracy among those who do business in connection with his cause. He would have things done with as much order as was seen anciently in the arrangement of his SANCTUARY and of the armies of Israel. No slack, bungling work was done there; for death would have been the penalty. {RH, December 8, 1885 par. 12}

The old year with its three hundred and sixty-six days of privilege and duty, has passed into eternity; and each day a record has been made in the books of Heaven. Our individual characters are as distinctly and faithfully represented there as are the features of the face on the polished plate of the artist. The LORD never mistakes in his estimate of our acts and motives. Our lives stand revealed before the angels in their true light. If the character is unlovely and debased, if the disposition is harsh, over-bearing, and passionate, these traits will exclude their possessor from Heaven. All our acts, with the motives that prompted them, are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and the decisions rendered are just and equal. The LORD does not excuse in one what he condemns in another. {ST, January 1, 1885 par. 1}

It is only through earnest, persevering effort, aided by the GRACE OF GOD, that we can reach this height of moral excellence. But this is the religion that is the light of the world. The church is becoming weak for the want of consecrated members, who feel that they are not their own; that their time, their talents, their energies, belong to CHRIST; that he has bought them with his blood, and is pleading for them in the SANCTUARY above. There are many who have never felt the necessity of subduing self, and overcoming wicked tempers. They cherish bitterness and wrath in their hearts, and these evil traits defile the soul. They thus deny CHRIST, and darken the pathway of others. None will be excused for the exhibition of uncontrollable tempers; thousands will miss of Heaven through their want of self-control. {ST, December 17, 1885 par. 10}

When tempted to sin, let us remember that JESUS is pleading for us in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. When we put away our sins and come to him in faith, he takes our names in his lips and presents them to his FATHER, saying, “I have graven them upon the palms of my hands; I know them by name.” And the command goes forth to the angels to protect them. Then in the day of fierce trial he will say, “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” What are the chambers in which they are to hide? They are the protection of CHRIST and holy angels. The people of GOD are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Every one must stand the test for himself. {HS 158.3 1886}

As we journeyed from Geneva to Basel, we passed through large and small cities; and my meditations were, How are these people in these large cities to be warned? In the vision of John, four mighty angels were shown him as holding the four winds, that they should not blow upon the earth until GOD’S servants are sealed in their foreheads. When this work is done, then the ministers of vengeance are called and commanded to pour upon the earth tempests, thunders, pestilences, calamities. Now then is the time to work when JESUS is interceding in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Now is our opportunity and privilege to be co-workers with GOD. {Lt38-1886}

The work of overcoming must be done here in this life. By sincere repentance and forsaking of every sin, pardon will be written against your names. The thoughts will be pure if the heart is pure. If the fountain is corrupt, the stream will be corrupt. Shall men who are conversant with the SCRIPTURES, and who are standing in vindication of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT, be charged in the books of heaven with transgressing the seventh? Shall Satan be given occasion to taunt the angels of GOD with the filthy characters of those who claim to be Christians? Will they make JESUS ashamed to call them brethren? I address you who shall have this epistle brought before you, who are leaders, who may be termed princes, among the people, “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the LORD.” Humble your souls before GOD. JESUS is in the SANCTUARY. We are in the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT; and if the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT has not already commenced for the living, it will soon begin; and to how many are the words of the TRUE WITNESS applicable: “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before GOD. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I shall come upon thee.” {Lt51-1886}

When Belshazzar had his great sacrificial feast, there was a witness present which he did not discern. They were drinking their wine and having their luxurious feast and praising the gods of silver and gold, extolling their own wisdom; but right over against the wall facing the king, a bloodless hand traced the terrible characters testifying of his true condition. The message came, “Thou art weighed in the balances and art found wanting.” Now the LORD is weighing characters in the SANCTUARY, and the deeds of those who are careless and indifferent, rushing on in the paths of sin and iniquity, are being registered in the books of heaven. {Ms6a-1886}

We should be astonished at our own indifference when we should be all life and vivacity, could we see the work that is going on in heaven. Here is the work of our INTERCESSOR; the great antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT and the work of judgment are going on with the dead, and how soon will they begin with the living, when every one of our cases will pass in review before GOD? And let it be understood by you that if you do not the work that GOD has given you, you will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. To us who have this hope and faith, it is a dangerous thing to be putting off the day of GOD. Matthew 24:48. {Ms10-1886}

Godliness, sobriety, and consistency will characterize the life and example of every true Christian. The work which CHRIST is doing in the SANCTUARY above will engage the thoughts and be the burden of the conversation because by faith he has entered into the SANCTUARY. He is on earth, but his sympathies are in harmony with the work that CHRIST is doing in heaven. CHRIST is CLEANSING the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY from the sins of the people, and it is the work of all who are laborers together with GOD to the CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY of the soul from everything that is offensive to Him. Everything like evil surmising, envy, jealousy, enmity, and hatred will be put away; for such things grieve the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD and put CHRIST to an open shame. Love of self will not exist, nor will any engaged in this work be puffed up. The example of CHRIST’S life, the consistency of His character, will make his influence far reaching. He will be a living epistle, known and read of all men. {Ms15-1886}

The house erected for the WORSHIP OF GOD should be cherished with sacred reverence by parents and by children. It should not be used for common business of any kind. Schools should be disconnected from the room that is employed as a SANCTUARY where we expect GOD to reveal His sacred presence. Our children are not receiving the proper training in regard to the sacredness of the house where GOD is worshiped and where His WORD is opened to the people. It is not possible to have them form correct ideas of GOD’S SANCTUARY if it is used for a schoolroom and for common business purposes. There should be a sacred spot, like the SANCTUARY of old, where GOD is to meet with His people. That place should not be used as a lunch room or as a business room, but simply for the WORSHIP OF GOD. {Ms23-1886}

When children attend day school in the same place where they assemble to worship on the SABBATH, they cannot be made to feel the sacredness of the place and that they must enter with feelings of reverence. The sacred and common are so blended that it is difficult to distinguish them. It is for this reason that the house or SANCTUARY dedicated to GOD should not be made a common place. Its sacredness should not be confused or mingled with the common every-day feelings or business life. There should be a solemn awe upon the worshipers as they enter the SANCTUARY, and they should leave behind all common worldly thoughts, for it is the place where GOD reveals His presence. It is as the audience chamber of the great and ETERNAL GOD; therefore pride and passion, dissension and self-esteem, selfishness, and covetousness, which GOD pronounces idolatry, are inappropriate for such a place. What concord is there between CHRIST and Belial, what agreement between the TEMPLE OF GOD and idols? {Ms23-1886}

The house of the LORD in Jerusalem made it the praise and a holy revered name in all the earth. The walls, the towers, the stones, the streets, the foundations, the very dust of the city were sacred to the Jewish nation because GOD revealed the SHEKINAH of His presence in the SANCTUARY, and there His blessings rested upon His people every day. When the sun’s soft beams shone down from the crest of Olivet upon the gilded domes and polished stones of the HOLY house, the one thought that GOD dwelt in Mount Zion and that He was in His SANCTUARY called forth a union of prayers for wisdom and strength from Him who dwelt between the CHERUBIM. I call your mind to the sacredness and awe which were cherished anciently for GOD’S house, His SANCTUARY. GOD is not confined to any one particular place, but anciently, pilgrims from all parts of the world assembled to worship at Jerusalem. The Passover, the Pentecost, and the feast of the TABERNACLES were seasons that stirred the souls of the loyal in Israel, old and young, rich and poor, high and low, joined the grand procession going up to Jerusalem to appear before GOD. The long journeys were made during the most favorable seasons of the year and by short stages, for many went on foot. The shepherds from their flocks, the herdsmen from the wild mountains, the sons of the prophets from Mount Carmel, the [fishermen] from the Sea of Galilee, and the stray wanderers would encounter perils on land and on sea that they might assemble and stand within the gates of Jerusalem on these special occasions. As they journeyed, the tedious monotony was relieved by sacred songs. Morning and evening the hills resounded with thanksgiving and praise. The wonderful deliverance from Egypt after the passage of the Red Sea was celebrated by songs of experience and thanksgiving and praise to their wonderful Deliverer. {Ms23-1886}

Miriam, the sister of Moses that once led the women of Israel with timbrels, saying, “Sing unto the LORD, for He hath triumphed gloriously,” the children of Israel for fifteen hundred years wove their wonderful experience into song. They chanted the grand Hebrew psalms with the same reverence and devotion which inspired the composer of the sacred melody. They exalted GOD; they brought their experience into history and elevated the marvelous works of GOD. The angels’ visits to the fathers and His revelations to the prophets were all brought into their songs, celebrating the majesty and power and wonderful works of JEHOVAH. At the sound of the signal trumpet and the music of the cymbals, the voices of praise and thanksgiving came from thousands of voices, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.” Psalm 122:1, 2. In these caravans marching to the HOLY CITY, not one went empty handed. Fruits from their produce in field and garden, and offerings of every kind, were borne by the worshipers. The fairest and the choicest of everything was taken to be presented as a gift to JEHOVAH in the SANCTUARY. Devotion to GOD was the order of all who visited the SANCTUARY. This should be the case with us. When these pilgrims arrived upon the surrounding hills in sight of the HOLY city, they looked with reverential awe down upon the living mass of people who like themselves were winding their way to the temple. As they saw the smoke of the INCENSE ascending and heard the trumpets of the Levites heralding the break of day, the people caught the inspiration of the hour and broke forth into sacred songs. “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our GOD, in the mountain of His holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north.” Psalm 48:1. “Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.” Psalm 122:7. “Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD.” Psalm 118:19. “I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all His people, in the courts of the LORD’S house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem.” Psalm 116:18, 19. “Because of the house of the LORD our GOD, I will seek thy good.” Psalm 122:9. {Ms23-1886}

This is an illustration of the work that is today going on in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Our great HIGH PRIEST is standing before the MERCY SEAT and is making an ATONEMENT for us. And should not we be constantly humbling our hearts before GOD, with confession and repentance? CHRIST takes the prayers that are offered by contrite hearts and presents them to the FATHER mingled with the INCENSE of His righteousness. Then pardon is written opposite their names, and the sins of those who have offered these prayers are pardoned. {Ms25-1886}

We are now living in the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. CHRIST is standing in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, before the MERCY SEAT, making an ATONEMENT for the sins of His people. He died to exalt the LAW OF GOD and make it honorable, and shall we dare to manipulate it to suit our own convenience? Shall we dare to spend for ourselves the hours of HIS HOLY SABBATH? {Ms26-1886}

The apostle, writing to the Galatians, says: “O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth …?” Galatians 3:1. It is a marvel that men are so indifferent when their only hope is in obeying the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD. Our standard is GOD’S HOLY LAW. Those who will take their position on the side of truth are a chosen people. What marvelous light! John saw in vision a temple opened in heaven, and as he sees a people whose minds are directed thither, he is led to exclaim, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS.” Revelation 14:12. And the song will be, “And they overcame him by the blood of the LAMB, and by the word of their testimony.” Revelation 12:11. What was seen in the ARK? Tables of stone, the cover of which constituted the MERCY SEAT. CHRIST is ministering in the SANCTUARY before the ARK. Mercy and truth have met and kissed each other. {Ms48-1886}

You will see by the prayer of Solomon that Israel’s dependence was in the GOD of Israel. The people that built the temple were many and the house that they built was large and grand and the LORD GOD of heaven honored them because they had built Him a SANCTUARY where they could meet to worship Him. Those that worshiped Him sincerely had His blessing. {Ms49-1886}

GOD weighs motives, purposes, character. All men are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and GOD would have all realize this fact. Hannah said, “The LORD is a GOD of knowledge, and by Him actions are weighed.” 1 Samuel 2:3. David hath said, “Men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie: to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.” Psalm 62:9. Isaiah says: “Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.” Isaiah 26:2. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.” Proverbs 16:2. {Ms65-1886}

The beams of light were shining forth from the open door of the TEMPLE OF GOD in heaven, and our attention was called to the ARK OF GOD in that temple, containing the TABLES OF STONE, upon which were engraven the LAW OF GOD. We saw, in tracing down the commandments, that the FOURTH COMMANDMENT—placed in the very BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE—had been perverted; that we had ignorantly been keeping the first day of the week, a common working day, as sacred, when the FOURTH COMMANDMENT stated that the seventh day was the SABBATH ordained and set apart by GOD Himself for man to keep holy. He sanctified the day, and man was to show special honor to GOD in observing the day He had given him. This commandment is the great truth which unites the two dispensations, the Mosaic and the Christian, and the light upon the SANCTUARY shows their relation to each other. {Ms76-1886}

A few began to search the SCRIPTURES after the disappointment in 1844, and the result was light in regard to what constituted the SANCTUARY. This searching revealed the fact that the prophecy referred not to this earth as the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the days, but to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY; and this truth explained our disappointment in 1844. Investigation of the SCRIPTURES also revealed the light upon the SABBATH. {Ms76-1886}

Now we saw a great work to be done to present this light to the people, for the SANCTUARY question, if understood, would remove all perplexities as to where we were standing in prophecy and explain clearly the disappointment in 1844. The light of prophecy would then appear clear and forcible to those who would search the SCRIPTURES with hearts open to receive the truth which had been so undiscerned. New hope and courage took possession of our souls, and although at first unwilling to accept the SABBATH and to acknowledge we had been ignorantly keeping a common day, which had been substituted by the man of sin in the place of GOD’S HOLY DAY, yet the light was so clear from the SCRIPTURES and from the convictions which attended the searching of the SCRIPTURES that we could not be found fighting against GOD. {Ms76-1886}

GOD’S truth is the same in all ages, although differently developed to meet the wants of his people in various periods. Under the OLD TESTAMENT dispensation, every important work was closely connected with the SANCTUARY. In the HOLY OF HOLIES the great I AM took up his abode, and no human being was permitted to enter there except by divine appointment. There, above the MERCY SEAT, overshadowed by the wings of the CHERUBIM, dwelt the SHEKINAH of his glory, the perpetual token of his presence; while the BRESTPLATE of the high priest, set with precious stones, made known from the sacred precincts of the SANCTUARY the solemn message of JEHOVAH to the people. Wonderful dispensation, when the HOLY ONE, the creator of the heavens and the earth, thus manifested his glory, and revealed his will to the children of men! {RH, March 2, 1886 par. 1}

From the creation and fall of man to the present time, there has been a continual unfolding of the plan of GOD for the redemption, through CHRIST, of the fallen race. The TABERNACLE and TEMPLE OF GOD on earth were patterned after the original in heaven. Around the SANCTUARY and its solemn services mystically gathered the grand truths which were to be developed through succeeding generations. There has been no time when GOD has granted greater evidences of his grandeur and exalted majesty, than while he was the acknowledged governor of Israel. The manifestations of an invisible King were grand and unspeakably awful. A scepter was swayed, but it was held by no human hand. The SACRED ARK, covered by the MERCY SEAT, and containing the HOLY LAW OF GOD, was symbolical of JEHOVAH himself. It was the power of the Israelites to conquer in battle. Before it idols were thrown down, and for rashly looking into it thousands perished. Never in our world has the LORD given such open manifestations of his supremacy as when he alone was the acknowledged king of Israel. {RH, March 2, 1886 par. 9}

How wise was the arrangement of GOD to preserve a knowledge of himself in the earth by giving man his HOLY LAW, which was the foundation of his government in heaven and in earth, and by connecting with it a system of worship that would be a continual reminder of a coming SAVIOUR. While darkness covered the earth, and gross darkness the people, the LORD had a humble few who acknowledged his sovereignty by respecting and obeying the constitution of his kingdom, the TEN COMMANDMENTS. Through the ages of idolatry and apostasy, the promise of a MESSIAH kept the star of hope shining in the darkened moral heavens until the time came for CHRIST to make his first advent. {RH, March 2, 1886 par. 10}

In the sacrificial offering on every ALTAR was seen a REDEEMER. With the cloud of INCENSE arose from every contrite heart the prayer that GOD would accept their offerings as showing faith in the coming SAVIOUR. Our SAVIOUR has come and shed his blood as a sacrifice, and now he pleads that blood before his FATHER in the SANCTUARY in heaven. It is now, as anciently, only through the merits of that blood that the transgressor of GOD’S LAW can find pardon. It is by exercising repentance toward GOD and faith in our LORD JESUS CHRIST. {RH, March 2, 1886 par. 11}

While we rejoice today that our SAVIOUR has come, that the sacrifices of the former dispensation have given place to the perfect offering for sin, we are not excusable in showing contempt for that period. Those who make slurring remarks concerning the old Jewish age, show that they are ignorant of the SCRIPTURES, and of the power of GOD. Amid the moral darkness of the idolatrous nations of that time are seen burning traces of the great I AM. His goings forth stand registered in the pages of BIBLE history. What is now needed is divine enlightenment, and a more intelligent knowledge of the wonderful dealings of GOD with his people anciently. The psalmist exclaims, “Thy way, O GOD, is in the SANCTUARY: who is so great a GOD as our GOD.” Basel, Switzerland. {RH, March 2, 1886 par. 12}

Here many who profess to be Christians will not bear the measurement of GOD; when weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, they will be found wanting. Dear brethren, “Come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the LORD, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, and be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the LORD ALMIGHTY.” What a promise is this! But we are not to lose sight of the fact that it is a promise based upon obedience to the command. GOD calls us to be separate from the world, We are not to imitate or follow their practices, nor be conformed to the world in our course of action in any respect. But be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of GOD. {RH, April 27, 1886 par. 9}

Today angels are watching the development of character; and soon our lives will have to pass in review before GOD. Soon we shall be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and over against our names will be recorded the judgment rendered. And we shall receive the crowning gift of ETERNAL life or be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the LORD. We may be unwilling to examine ourselves closely now to see what our SPIRITUAL condition is, and whether our hearts are being suitably impressed by the testing message of truth; but that will not make any difference with the work of the Judgment. Its decisions will be rendered just the same; and when the “SON OF MAN shall come in the glory of his FATHER with his angels,” “he shall reward every man according to his works.” {ST, January 7, 1886 par. 4}

In the Jewish age, all the revealings of GOD to his people, everything relating to his worship, was closely connected with the SANCTUARY,–with the TABERNACLE in the wilderness, and afterward with the temple. Here GOD was worshiped; here the sacrificial offerings were presented before him. Here was the BRESTPLATE of the high priest, set with precious stones, from which messages from JEHOVAH were received. Here, in the HOLY OF HOLIES, overshadowed by the wings of CHERUBIM, dwelt the perpetual token of the presence of the HOLY ONE, the CREATOR of the heavens and the earth. Here was the ARK OF THE COVENANT, containing the tables of the law,–the ARK which was to Israel the symbol of the divine presence, and the pledge of victory in battle. Idols could not stand before the sacred ARK OF GOD, and death was the penalty of a rash, irreverent touch or the glance of curiosity. {ST, June 3, 1886 par. 2}

From the HOLY OF HOLIES, there goes on the grand work of instruction. The angels of GOD are communicating to men. CHRIST officiates in the SANCTUARY. We do not follow Him into the SANCTUARY as we should. CHRIST and angels work in the hearts of the children of men. The church above united with the church below [is] warring the good warfare upon the earth. There must be a purifying of the soul here upon the earth, in harmony with CHRIST’S CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. There we shall see more clearly as we are seen. We shall know as we are known. {Lt37-1887}

It is a melancholy and dispiriting thing to observe how little effect the solemn truths relating to these last days have upon the minds and hearts of those who claim to believe the truth. They listen to the discourses preached, they seem to be deeply interested as they hang upon the lips of the speaker; and if his words are sublime, they are delighted, tears flow as the love of CHRIST is the theme brought before them. But with the close of the discourse the spell is broken. Enter the homes, and you will be surprised to not hear one word that would lead you to think that a deep impression was made as the circumstances warranted in the presentation of such elevating things. It was exactly as if they had listened to some pleasant song or melody. It is done and the impression gone like the morning dew before the sun. What is the reason of this? The truth is not brought into the life. They did not accept the truth spoken as the WORD OF GOD to them. They did not look past the instrument to the great Worker within the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. You did not take the word as a special message from GOD of whom the speaker was only the one who was entrusted with the message. Is it then any marvel that the truth is so powerless, that with a large number, if there is some excitement, a little animal ecstasy, a little head knowledge, the influence is no deeper? {Lt37-1887}

Anciently in the service of the SANCTUARY, GOD required that sacrificial offerings be made more upon the SABBATH than any other day. This was work, but it was not servile work. It was not labor for a livelihood. It was not done for gain or for selfish interest. It was done in the SERVICE OF GOD. {Lt67-1887}

Here we see that the church–the LORD’S SANCTUARY–was the first to feel the stroke of the WRATH OF GOD. The ancient men, those to whom GOD had given great light, and who had stood as guardians of the SPIRITUAL interests of the people, had betrayed their trust. This shows us that we must not look to men for example. We need to stay our faith upon GOD; for there is just before us a time that will try men’s souls. CHRIST upon the Mount of Olives rehearsed the fearful judgments that were to precede his SECOND COMING: “Ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars.” “Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” While these prophecies received a partial fulfillment at the destruction of Jerusalem, they have a more direct application in the last days. {RH, January 11, 1887 par. 12}

It is possible to be a formal, partial believer, and yet be found wanting, and lose ETERNAL life. It is possible to practice some of the BIBLE injunctions, and be regarded as a Christian, and yet perish because you are lacking in essential qualifications that constitute Christian character. The destroying angels have the commission from the LORD, “Begin at MY SANCTUARY.” And “they began at the ancient men which were before the house.” If the warnings which GOD has given are neglected or regarded with indifference, if you suffer sin to be cherished, you are sealing your soul’s destiny; you will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. Grace, peace, and pardon will be withdrawn forever; JESUS will have passed by, never again to come within the reach of your prayers and entreaties. While mercy still lingers, while JESUS is making intercession for us, let us make thorough work for eternity. Torre Pellice, Italy. {RH, January 11, 1887 par. 24}

JESUS is not preached in very many of the pulpits of today. Anything and everything but CHRIST is preached, for the very reason that the preacher is not acquainted with CHRIST. Some make it a practice to study different authors, and think this will help them greatly in their discourses. They flatter themselves that they have a very intellectual discourse, and so they may have; but the flock is not fed with the bread of life; the crib was placed above their reach. That which the world and churches need today is the preaching of the BLOOD OF CHRIST and the virtue of HIS ATONEMENT, and to be taught what constitutes sin, and to have the SPIRIT OF CHRIST interwoven in all their labors. What the world needs today is to know what they must do to be saved. There are many interesting and pleasing discourses given that the speaker counts the very height of success, but they are not thus registered by Him who weighs the thoughts and motives of men, who looketh not at outward appearances but at the heart, who weighs such discourses in the balances of the SANCTUARY and pronounces them wanting. The only element which could make them a success is lacking–JESUS, the Light of the world. {RH, February 22, 1887 par. 10}

The old standard-bearers knew what it was to wrestle with GOD in prayer, and to enjoy the out-pouring of HIS SPIRIT. But these are passing off from the stage of action; and who are coming up to fill their places? How is it with the rising generation? are they converted to GOD? Are we awake to the work that is going on in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, or are we waiting for some compelling power to come upon the church before we shall arouse? Are we hoping to see the whole church revived? That time will never come. {RH, March 22, 1887 par. 2}

In 1844 our great HIGH PRIEST entered the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, to begin the work of the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT. The cases of the righteous dead have been passing in review before GOD. When that work shall be completed, judgment is to be pronounced upon the living. How precious, how important are these solemn moments! Each of us has a case pending in the court of heaven. We are individually to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. In the typical service, when the work of ATONEMENT was performed by the high priest in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the earthly SANCTUARY, the people were required to afflict their souls before GOD, and confess their sins, that they might be atoned for and blotted out. Will any less be required of us in this antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT, when CHRIST in the SANCTUARY above is pleading in behalf of his people, and the final, irrevocable decision is to be pronounced upon every case? {RH, March 22, 1887 par. 9}

He [CHRIST] walks in the midst of the GOLDEN CANDLESTICKS. Thus is symbolized the relation of CHRIST to his churches, and the stars are used to represent his ministers. He is represented as walking up and down among the GOLDEN CANDLESTICKS. He is in communion with his people. He knows their true state. He observes their order, their vigilance, their piety, and their devotion; and he takes pleasure in them if he sees these fruits manifest. Although CHRIST is MEDIATOR in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, yet he walks up and down in the midst of the churches on earth. He goes about from church to church, from congregation to congregation, from soul to soul. He observes their true condition,–that which is neglected, that which is in disorder, and that which needs to be done. He is represented as walking, which signifies unrest, wakefulness, and unremitting vigilance. He is observing whether the light of any of his sentinels, or CANDLESTICKS, is burning dim or going out. These under-shepherds may sleep, but He that keeps Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. If these CANDLESTICKS were left to the charge of human powers, the flickering flame would languish and die. But He is the true watchman of the home, the sleepless warden of the temple courts. The continual watch-care and presence and sustaining grace of CHRIST are the source of all light and life. {RH, May 31, 1887 par. 5} {HM, November 1, 1893 par. 5}

Those who are restless, impatient, dissatisfied, under the weight of care and responsibility, are seeking to carry their burden without the aid of JESUS. If he were by their side, the sunshine of his presence would scatter every cloud, the help of his strong arm would lighten every burden. The church is becoming weak for the want of consecrated members, who feel that they are not their own; that their time, their talents, their energies belong to CHRIST; that he has bought them with his blood, and is pleading for them in the SANCTUARY above. {RH, November 29, 1887 par. 4}

We are in need of BIBLE missionaries; those who have connected themselves with GOD, and who will examine themselves daily to see if there is not some defect in their character; those who will look into the great looking-glass, GOD’S LAW, to see if it does not condemn some practice in which they are indulging. All should bear in mind that it is only those who are without spot or wrinkle who can stand acquitted before GOD. The temper, the taste, the thoughts, the feelings,–all must be brought to the test of GOD’S WORD. This will be serious work for each one of us now; but it will be more serious when the Judgment shall sit, and the books be opened, and the defects of character appear just as they are when every case is decided for life or for death. The weighing of character in the balances of the SANCTUARY is GOD’S work, but the close study of the BIBLE, the bringing up of our characters to GOD’S standard is our work. Our great danger is of stopping short of full consecration of ourselves to GOD; of being Christians only in name. GOD holds us accountable for the great light that shines upon our pathway. He has done all for us that a GOD could do. He has placed salvation within our reach, and the question for us to decide now is, Will we make the most of these blessings? {ST, May 19, 1887 par. 6}

The LORD is weighing character in the SANCTUARY today, and those who are careless and indifferent, rushing on in the paths of iniquity, will not stand the test. GOD has endowed us with reasoning powers, and he requires us to use them to his glory. He has given us this body, which he wishes us to preserve in perfect health, that we may render the best service to his cause. He has paid an infinite price for our redemption, and yet men and women dependent from day to day upon his mercies, for life, for health, for food, for all the blessings they enjoy, refuse to obey HIS LAWS, refuse to accept his SON as their EXAMPLE and SAVIOUR. {ST, December 29, 1887 par. 6}

We may rejoice in hope. Our ADVOCATE is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, pleading in our behalf. Through his merits we may have pardon and peace. He died that he might wash away our sins, clothe us with his righteousness, and fit us for the society of heaven, where we may dwell in light forever. Dear brother, dear sister, when Satan would fill your mind with despondency, gloom, and doubt, resist his suggestions. Tell him of the BLOOD OF JESUS, that CLEANSES from all sin. You cannot save yourself from the tempter’s power, but he trembles and flees when the merits of that precious blood are urged. Then will you not gratefully accept the blessings JESUS bestows? Will you not take the cup of salvation that he presents, and call on the name of the LORD? Do not show distrust of Him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Do not for a moment pain the heart of the pitying SAVIOUR by your unbelief. He watches with the most intense interest your progress in the heavenly way; he sees your earnest efforts; he notes your declensions and your recoveries, your hopes and your fears, your conflicts and your victories. {BEcho, January 1, 1888 par. 8}

All the predictions given by CHRIST concerning the destruction of Jerusalem were fulfilled to the letter. The Jews experienced the truth of his words of warning, “With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” [Matthew 7:2.] {GC88 30.1 1888}

Signs and wonders appeared, foreboding disaster and doom. In the midst of the night an unnatural light shone over the temple and the ALTAR. Upon the clouds at sunset were pictured chariots and men of war gathering for battle. The priests ministering by night in the SANCTUARY were terrified by mysterious sounds; the earth trembled, and a multitude of voices were heard crying, “Let us depart hence.” The great eastern gate, which was so heavy that it could hardly be shut by a score of men, and which was secured by immense bars of iron fastened deep in the pavement of solid stone, opened at midnight, without visible agency. {GC88 30.2 1888}

Titus found it impossible to check the rage of the soldiery; he entered with his officers, and surveyed the interior of the sacred edifice. The splendor filled them with wonder; and as the flames had not yet penetrated to the HOLY PLACE, he made a last effort to save it, and springing forth, again exhorted the soldiers to stay the progress of the conflagration. The centurion Liberalis endeavored to enforce obedience with his staff of office; but even respect for the emperor gave way to the furious animosity against the Jews, to the fierce excitement of battle, and to the insatiable hope of plunder. The soldiers saw everything around them radiant with gold, which shone dazzlingly in the wild light of the flames; they supposed that incalculable treasures were laid up in the SANCTUARY. A soldier, unperceived, thrust a lighted torch between the hinges of the door; the whole building was in flames in an instant. The blinding smoke and fire forced the officers to retreat, and the noble edifice was left to its fate. {GC88 34.1 1888}

The prophecy which seemed most clearly to reveal the time of the second advent was that of Daniel 8:14: “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” Following his rule of making SCRIPTURE its own interpreter, Miller learned that a day in symbolic prophecy represents a year; [Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.] he saw that the period of 2300 prophetic days, or literal years, would extend far beyond the close of the Jewish dispensation, hence it could not refer to the SANCTUARY of that dispensation. Miller accepted the generally received view, that in the Christian age the earth is the SANCTUARY, and he therefore understood that the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY foretold in Daniel 8:14,represented the purification of the earth by fire at the SECOND COMING of CHRIST. If, then, the correct starting-point could be found for the 2300 days, he concluded that the time of the second advent could be readily ascertained. Thus would be revealed the time of that great consummation, “the time when the present state, with all its pride and power, its pomp and vanity, wickedness and oppression, would come to an end; . . . when the curse would be removed from off the earth, when death would be destroyed, reward be given to the servants of GOD, to the prophets and saints, and all them that fear his name, and those be destroyed who destroy the earth.” {GC88 324.2 1888}

The angel had been sent to Daniel for the express purpose of explaining to him the point which he had failed to understand in the vision of the eighth chapter, the statement relative to time,—“Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” After bidding Daniel “understand the matter, and consider the vision,” the very first words of the angel are, “Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city.” The word here translated “determined,” literally signifies “cut off.” Seventy weeks, representing 490 years, are declared by the angel to be cut off, as specially pertaining to the Jews. But from what were they cut off? As the 2300 days was the only period of time mentioned in chapter eight, it must be the period from which the seventy weeks were cut off; the seventy weeks must therefore be a part of the 2300 days, and the two periods must begin together. The seventy weeks were declared by the angel to date from the going forth of the commandment to restore and build Jerusalem. If the date of this commandment could be found, then the starting-point for the great period of the 2300 days would be ascertained. {GC88 326.1 1888}

Thus far every specification of the prophecy is strikingly fulfilled, and the beginning of the seventy weeks is fixed beyond question at B. C. 457, and their expiration in A. D. 34. From this data there is no difficulty in finding the termination of the 2300 days. The seventy weeks—490 days—having been cut off from the 2300, there were 1810 days remaining. After the end of 490 days, the 1810 days were still to be fulfilled. From A. D. 34, 1810 years extend to 1844. Consequently the 2300 days of Daniel 8:14 terminate in 1844. At the expiration of this great prophetic period, upon the testimony of the angel of GOD, “the SANCTUARY shall be CLEANSED.” Thus the time of the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY —which was almost universally believed to take place at the second advent—was definitely pointed out. {GC88 328.2 1888}

Miller and his associates at first believed that the 2300 days would terminate in the spring of 1844, whereas the prophecy points to the autumn of that year. The misapprehension of this point brought disappointment and perplexity to those who had fixed upon the earlier date as the time of the LORD’S coming. But this did not in the least affect the strength of the argument showing that the 2300 days terminated in the year 1844, and that the great event represented by the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY must then take place. {GC88 328.3 1888}

In explaining Daniel 8:14, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days, then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED, “Miller, as has been stated, adopted the generally received view that the earth is the SANCTUARY, and he believed that the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY represented the purification of the earth by fire at the coming of the LORD. When, therefore, he found that the close of the 2300 days was definitely foretold, he concluded that this revealed the time of the second advent. His error resulted from accepting the popular view as to what constitutes the SANCTUARY. {GC88 352.1 1888}

In the typical system,—which was a shadow of the sacrifice and priesthood of CHRIST,—the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY was the last service performed by the high priest in the yearly round of ministration. It was the closing work of the ATONEMENT,—a removal or putting away of sin from Israel. It prefigured the closing work in the ministration of our HIGH PRIEST in Heaven, in the removal or blotting out of the sins of his people, which are registered in the heavenly records. This service involves a work of investigation, a work of judgment; and it immediately precedes the coming of CHRIST in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory; for when he comes, every case has been decided. Says JESUS, “My reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 22:12.] It is this work of judgment, immediately preceding the second advent, that is announced in the first angel’s message of Revelation 14:7: “Fear GOD, and give glory to him; for the hour of his Judgment is come.” {GC88 352.2 1888}

Arguments drawn from the Old-Testament types also pointed to the autumn as the time when the event represented by the “CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY” must take place. This was made very clear as attention was given to the manner in which the types relating to the first advent of CHRIST had been fulfilled. {GC88 398.4 1888}

The slaying of the passover lamb was a shadow of the death of CHRIST. Says Paul, “CHRIST our passover is sacrificed for us.” [1 Corinthians 5:7.] The sheaf of first-fruits, which at the time of the Passover was waved before the LORD, was typical of the resurrection of CHRIST. Paul says, in speaking of the resurrection of the LORD, and of all his people, “CHRIST the first-fruits; afterward they that are CHRIST’S at his coming.” [1 Corinthians 15:23.] Like the wave-sheaf, which was the first ripe grain gathered before the harvest, CHRIST is the first-fruits of that immortal harvest of redeemed ones that at the future resurrection shall be gathered into the garner of GOD. {GC88 399.1 1888}

These types were fulfilled, not only as to the event, but as to the time. On the fourteenth day of the first Jewish month, the very day and month on which, for fifteen long centuries, the passover lamb had been slain, CHRIST, having eaten the passover with his disciples, instituted that feast which was to commemorate his own death as “the LAMB OF GOD, which taketh away the sin of the world.” That same night he was taken by wicked hands, to be crucified and slain. And as the antitype of the wave-sheaf, our LORD was raised from the dead on the third day, “the first-fruits of them that slept,” [1 Corinthians 15:20.] a sample of all the resurrected just, whose “vile body” shall be changed, and “fashioned like unto his glorious body.” [Philippians 3:21.] {GC88 399.2 1888}

In like manner, the types which relate to the second advent must be fulfilled at the time pointed out in the symbolic service. Under the Mosaic system, the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY, or the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, occurred on the tenth day of the seventh Jewish month, [Leviticus 16:29-34.] when the high priest, having made an ATONEMENT for all Israel, and thus removed their sins from the SANCTUARY, came forth and blessed the people. So it was believed that CHRIST, our great HIGH PRIEST, would appear to purify the earth by the destruction of sin and sinners, and to bless his waiting people with immortality. The tenth day of the seventh month, the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, the time of the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY, which in the year 1844 fell upon the 22d of October, was regarded as the time of the LORD’S coming. This was in harmony with the proofs already presented that the 2300 days would terminate in the autumn, and the conclusion seemed irresistible. {GC88 399.3 1888}

Chapter XXIII – What is the SANCTUARY?

But GOD had led his people in the great Advent movement; his power and glory had attended the work, and he would not permit it to end in darkness and disappointment, to be reproached as a false and fanatical excitement. He would not leave his word involved in doubt and uncertainty. Though many abandoned their former reckoning of the prophetic periods, and denied the correctness of the movement based thereon, others were unwilling to renounce points of faith and experience that were sustained by the SCRIPTURES and by the witness of the SPIRIT OF GOD. They believed that they had adopted sound principles of interpretation in their study of the prophecies, and that it was their duty to hold fast the truths already gained, and to continue the same course of Biblical research. With earnest prayer they reviewed their position, and studied the SCRIPTURES to discover their mistake. As they could see no error in their reckoning of the prophetic periods, they were led to examine more closely the subject of the SANCTUARY. {GC88 410.1 1888}

In their investigation they learned that there is no SCRIPTURE evidence sustaining the popular view that the earth is the SANCTUARY; but they found in the BIBLE a full explanation of the subject of the SANCTUARY, its nature, location, and services; the testimony of the sacred writers being so clear and ample as to place the matter beyond all question. The apostle Paul, in the Epistle to the Hebrews, says: “Then verily the FIRST COVENANT had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly SANCTUARY. For there was a TABERNACLE made; the first, wherein was the CANDLESTICK, and the table, and the SHEWBREAD; which is called the SANCTUARY. And after the SECOND VEIL, the TABERNACLE which is called the HOLIEST OF ALL, which had the GOLDEN CENSER, and the ARK OF THE COVENANT overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had MANNA, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; and over it the CHERUBIM of glory shadowing the MERCY SEAT.” [Hebrews 9:1-5.] {GC88 411.1 1888}

The SANCTUARY to which Paul here refers was the TABERNACLE built by Moses at the command of GOD, as the earthly dwelling-place of the MOST HIGH. “Let them make me a SANCTUARY, that I may dwell among them,” [Exodus 25:8.] was the direction given to Moses while in the mount with GOD. The Israelites were journeying through the wilderness, and the TABERNACLE was so constructed that it could be removed from place to place; yet it was a structure of great magnificence. Its walls consisted of upright boards heavily plated with gold, and set in sockets of silver, while the roof was formed of a series of CURTAINS, or coverings, the outer of skins, the innermost of fine linen beautifully wrought with figures of CHERUBIM. Besides the outer court, which contained the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING, the TABERNACLE itself consisted of TWO APARTMENTS called the HOLY and the MOST HOLY PLACE, separated by a rich and beautiful CURTAIN, or VEIL; a similar VEIL closed the entrance to the FIRST APARTMENT. {GC88 411.2 1888}

In the HOLY PLACE was the CANDLESTICK, on the south, with its SEVEN LAMPS giving light to the SANCTUARY both by day and by night; on the north stood the TABLE OF SHEWBREAD; and before the VEIL separating the HOLY from the MOST HOLY was the GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE, from which the cloud of fragrance, with the prayers of Israel, was daily ascending before GOD. {GC88 412.1 1888}

In the MOST HOLY PLACE stood the ARK, a chest of precious wood overlaid with gold, the depository of the two TABLES OF STONE upon which GOD had inscribed the law of TEN COMMANDMENTS. Above the ARK, and forming the cover to the SACRED CHEST, was the MERCY SEAT, a magnificent piece of workmanship, surmounted by TWO CHERUBIM, one at each end, and all wrought of solid gold. In this APARTMENT the divine presence was manifested in the cloud of glory between the CHERUBIM. {GC88 412.2 1888}

After the settlement of the Hebrews in Canaan, the TABERNACLE was replaced by the temple of Solomon, which, though a permanent structure and upon a larger scale, observed the same proportions, and was similarly furnished. In this form the SANCTUARY existed—except while it lay in ruins in Daniel’s time—until its destruction by the Romans, A. D. 70. {GC88 412.3 1888}

This is the only SANCTUARY that ever existed on the earth, of which the BIBLE gives any information. This was declared by Paul to be the SANCTUARY of the FIRST COVENANT. But has the NEW COVENANT no SANCTUARY? {GC88 412.4 1888}

Turning again to the book of Hebrews, the seekers for truth found that the existence of a SECOND, OR NEW COVENANT SANCTUARY was implied in the words of Paul already quoted: “Then verily the FIRST COVENANT had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly SANCTUARY.” And the use of the word also intimates that Paul has before made mention of this SANCTUARY. Turning back to the beginning of the previous chapter they read: “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the THRONE of the MAJESTY in the heavens; a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man.” [Hebrews 8:1, 2.] {GC88 412.5 1888}

Here is revealed the SANCTUARY of the NEW COVENANT. The SANCTUARY of the FIRST COVENANT was pitched by man, built by Moses; this is pitched by the LORD, not by man. In that SANCTUARY the earthly priests performed their service; in this, CHRIST, our great high priest, ministers at GOD’S right hand. One SANCTUARY was on earth, the other is in Heaven. {GC88 413.1 1888}

Further, the TABERNACLE built by Moses was made after a pattern. The LORD directed him, “According to all that I show thee, after the pattern of the TABERNACLE, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.” [Exodus 25:9, 40.] And again the charge was given, “Look that thou make them after their pattern, which was showed thee in the mount.” [Exodus 25:9, 40.] And Paul says, that the FIRST TABERNACLE “was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” that its HOLY PLACES were “patterns of things in the heavens;” that the priests who offered gifts according to the law, served, “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things,” and that “CHRIST is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us.” [Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:5; 9:24.] {GC88 413.2 1888}

The HOLY PLACES of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN are represented by the TWO APARTMENTS in the SANCTUARY on earth. As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the TEMPLE OF GOD in Heaven, he beheld there “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE burning before the THRONE.” [Revelation 4:5.] He saw an angel “having a GOLDEN CENSER; and there was given unto him much INCENSE, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the GOLDEN ALTAR which was before the THRONE.” [Revelation 8:3.] Here the prophet was permitted to behold the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN; and he saw there the “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE” and the “GOLDEN ALTAR” represented by the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR OF INCENSE in the SANCTUARY on earth. Again, “the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened,” [Revelation 11:19.] and he looked within the INNER VEIL, upon the HOLY OF HOLIES. Here he beheld “the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT,” represented by the SACRED CHEST constructed by Moses to contain the LAW OF GOD. {GC88 414.1 1888}

Thus those who were studying the subject found indisputable proof of the existence of a SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. Moses made the earthly SANCTUARY after a pattern which was shown him. Paul declares that that pattern was the true SANCTUARY which is in Heaven. And John testifies that he saw it in Heaven. {GC88 415.1 1888}

The work of CHRIST as man’s INTERCESSOR is presented in that beautiful prophecy of Zechariah concerning him “whose name is The Branch.” Says the prophet: “He shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his [the FATHER’S] throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne; and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.” [Zechariah 6:13.] {GC88 415.3 1888}

He shall build the temple of the LORD. By his sacrifice and MEDIATION, CHRIST is both the foundation and the builder of the CHURCH OF GOD. The apostle Paul points to him as “the chief corner-stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the LORD; in whom ye also,” he says, “are builded together for a habitation of GOD through the SPIRIT.” [Ephesians 2:20-22.] {GC88 416.1 1888}

And he shall bear the glory. To CHRIST belongs the glory of redemption for the fallen race. Through the ETERNAL ages, the song of the ransomed ones will be, “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, . . . to him be glory and dominion forever and ever.” [Revelation 1:5, 6.] {GC88 416.2 1888}

He “shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his THRONE.” Not now “upon the THRONE of his glory;” the kingdom of glory has not yet been ushered in. Not until his work as a MEDIATOR shall be ended, will GOD “give unto him the THRONE of his father David,” a kingdom of which “there shall be no end.” [Luke 1:32, 33.] As a priest, CHRIST is now set down with the FATHER in his THRONE. [Revelation 3:21.] Upon the THRONE with the ETERNAL, self-existent One, is he who “hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows,” who “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin,” that he might be “able to succor them that are tempted.” “If any man sin, we have an ADVOCATE with the FATHER.” [Isaiah 53:4; Hebrews 4:15; 2:18; 1 John 2:1] His intercession is that of a pierced and broken body, of a spotless life. The wounded hands, the pierced side, the marred feet, plead for fallen man, whose redemption was purchased at such infinite cost. {GC88 416.3 1888}

And the counsel of peace shall be between them both. The love of the FATHER, no less than of the SON, is the fountain of salvation for the lost race. Said JESUS to his disciples, before he went away, “I say not unto you, that I will pray the FATHER for you; for the FATHER himself loveth you.” [John 16:26, 27.] GOD was “in CHRIST, reconciling the world unto himself.” [2 Corinthians 5:19.] And in the ministration in the SANCTUARY above, “the counsel of peace shall be between them both.” “GOD so loved the world, that he gave his ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] {GC88 416.4 1888}

The question, What is the SANCTUARY? is clearly answered in the SCRIPTURES. The term SANCTUARY, as used in the BIBLE, refers, first, to the TABERNACLE built by Moses, as a pattern of heavenly things; and, secondly, to the “true TABERNACLE” in Heaven, to which the earthly SANCTUARY pointed. At the death of CHRIST the typical service ended. The “true TABERNACLE” in Heaven is the SANCTUARY of the NEW COVENANT. And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the SANCTUARY to which it refers must be the SANCTUARY of the NEW COVENANT. At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, there had been no SANCTUARY on earth for many centuries. Thus the prophecy, “Unto two thousand three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED,” unquestionably points to the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. {GC88 417.1 1888}

But the most important question remains to be answered: What is the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY? That there was such a service in connection with the earthly SANCTUARY, is stated in the Old-Testament SCRIPTURES. But can there be anything in Heaven to be CLEANSED? In Hebrews 9 the CLEANSING of both the earthly and the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY is plainly taught. “Almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these [the blood of animals]; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these,” [Hebrews 9:22, 23.] even the precious BLOOD OF CHRIST. {GC88 417.2 1888}

The CLEANSING, both in the typical and in the real service, must be accomplished with blood; in the former, with the blood of animals; in the latter, with the BLOOD OF CHRIST. Paul states, as the reason why this CLEANSING must be performed with blood, that without shedding of blood is no remission. Remission, or putting away of sin, is the work to be accomplished. But how could there be sin connected with the SANCTUARY, either in Heaven or upon the earth? This may be learned by reference to the symbolic service; for the priests who officiated on earth, served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” [Hebrews 8:5.] {GC88 417.3 1888}

Such was the work that went on, day by day, throughout the year. The sins of Israel were thus transferred to the SANCTUARY, and a special work became necessary for their removal. GOD commanded that an ATONEMENT be made for each of the SACRED APARTMENTS. “He shall make an ATONEMENT for the HOLY PLACE, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins; and so shall he do for the TABERNACLE of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.” [Leviticus 16:16, 19.] AN ATONEMENT WAS ALSO TO BE MADE FOR THE ALTAR, to “CLEANSE it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.” [Leviticus 16:16, 19.] {GC88 418.2 1888}

Once a year, on the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, the priest entered the MOST HOLY PLACE for the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. The work there performed completed the yearly round of ministration. On the DAY OF ATONEMENT, two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the TABERNACLE, and lots were cast upon them, “one lot for the LORD, and the other lot for the scape-goat.” [Leviticus 16:8, 21, 22.] The goat upon which fell the lot for the LORD was to be slain as a sin-offering for the people. And the priest was to bring his blood within the VEIL, and sprinkle it upon the MERCY SEAT, and before the MERCY SEAT. The blood was also to be sprinkled upon the ALTAR OF INCENSE, that was before the VEIL. {GC88 419.1 1888}

The ministration of the priest throughout the year in the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY, “within the VEIL” which formed the door and separated the HOLY PLACE from the outer court, represents the work of ministration upon which CHRIST entered at his ascension. It was the work of the priest in the daily ministration to present before GOD the blood of the sin-offering, also the INCENSE which ascended with the prayers of Israel. So did CHRIST plead his blood before the FATHER in behalf of sinners, and present before him also, with the precious fragrance of his own righteousness, the prayers of penitent believers. Such was the work of ministration in the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. {GC88 420.3 1888}

Thither the faith of CHRIST’S disciples followed him as he ascended from their sight. Here their hopes centered, “which hope we have,” said Paul, “as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the VEIL; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even JESUS, made an high priest forever.” “Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the HOLY PLACE, having obtained ETERNAL redemption for us.” [Hebrews 6:19, 20; 9:12.] {GC88 421.1 1888}

For eighteen centuries this work of ministration continued in the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY. The BLOOD OF CHRIST, pleaded in behalf of penitent believers, secured their pardon and acceptance with the FATHER, yet their sins still remained upon the books of record. As in the typical service there was a work of ATONEMENT at the close of the year, so before CHRIST’S work for the redemption of men is completed, there is a work of ATONEMENT for the removal of sin from the SANCTUARY. This is the service which began when the 2300 days ended. At that time, as foretold by Daniel the prophet, our HIGH PRIEST entered the MOST HOLY, to perform the last division of his solemn work,—to CLEANSE THE SANCTUARY. {GC88 421.2 1888}

As anciently the sins of the people were by faith placed upon the sin-offering, and through its blood transferred, in figure, to the earthly SANCTUARY, so in the NEW COVENANT the sins of the repentant are by faith placed upon CHRIST, and transferred, in fact, to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And as the typical CLEANSING of the earthly was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual CLEANSING of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded. But, before this can be accomplished, there must be an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin, and faith in CHRIST, are entitled to the benefits of HIS ATONEMENT. The CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY therefore involves a work of investigation,—a work of judgment. This work must be performed prior to the coming of CHRIST to redeem his people; for when he comes, his reward is with him to give to every man according to his works. [Revelation 22:12.] {GC88 421.3 1888}

Chapter XXIV – In the HOLY OF HOLIES

Both the prophecy of Daniel 8:14, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY BE CLEANSED,” and the first angel’s message, “Fear GOD, and give glory to him; for the hour of his Judgment is come,” pointed to CHRIST’S ministration in the MOST HOLY PLACE, to the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT, and not to the coming of CHRIST for the redemption of his people and the destruction of the wicked. The mistake had not been in the reckoning of the prophetic periods, but in the event to take place at the end of the 2300 days. Through this error the believers had suffered disappointment, yet all that was foretold by the prophecy, and all that they had any SCRIPTURE warrant to expect, had been accomplished. At the very time when they were lamenting the failure of their hopes, the event had taken place which was foretold by the message, and which must be fulfilled before the LORD could appear to give reward to his servants. {GC88 423.2 1888}

CHRIST had come, not to the earth, as they expected, but, as foreshadowed in the type, to the MOST HOLY PLACE of the TEMPLE OF GOD in Heaven. He is represented by the prophet Daniel as coming at this time to the ANCIENT OF DAYS: “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the SON OF MAN came with the clouds of heaven, and came”—not to the earth, but—“to the ANCIENT OF DAYS, and they brought him near before him.” [Daniel 7:13.] {GC88 424.1 1888}

This coming is foretold also by the prophet Malachi. “The LORD, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to HIS TEMPLE, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.” [Malachi 3:1.] The coming of the LORD to HIS TEMPLE was sudden, unexpected, to his people. They were not looking for him there. They expected him to come to earth, “in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not GOD, and that obey not the gospel.” [2 Thessalonians 1:8.] {GC88 424.2 1888}

But the people were not yet ready to meet their LORD. There was still a work of preparation to be accomplished for them. Light was to be given, directing their minds to the TEMPLE OF GOD in Heaven; and as they should by faith follow their HIGH PRIEST in his ministration there, new duties would be revealed. Another message of warning and instruction was to be given to the church. {GC88 424.3 1888}

Says the prophet: “Who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap; and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.” [Malachi 3:2, 3.] Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of CHRIST shall cease in the SANCTUARY above, are to stand in the sight of a HOLY GOD without a MEDIATOR. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the GRACE OF GOD and their own diligent effort, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT is going forward in Heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the SANCTUARY, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among GOD’S people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14. {GC88 425.1 1888}

When this work shall have been accomplished, the followers of CHRIST will be ready for his appearing. “Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years.” [Malachi 3:4.] Then the church which our LORD at his coming is to receive to himself will be “a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.” [Ephesians 5:27.] Then she will look forth “as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.” [Song of Solomon 6:10.] {GC88 425.2 1888}

Besides the coming of the LORD to HIS TEMPLE, Malachi also foretells his second advent, his coming for the execution of the judgment, in these words: “And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.” [Malachi 3:5.] Jude refers to the same scene when he says, “Behold, the LORD cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds.” [Jude 14, 15.] This coming, and the coming of the LORD to HIS TEMPLE, are distinct and separate events. {GC88 425.3 1888}

The coming of CHRIST as our high priest to the MOST HOLY PLACE, for the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY, brought to view in Daniel 8:14; the coming of the SON OF MAN to the ANCIENT OF DAYS, as presented in Daniel 7:13; and the coming of the LORD to HIS TEMPLE, foretold by Malachi, are descriptions of the same event; and this is also represented by the coming of the bridegroom to the marriage, described by CHRIST in the parable of the ten virgins, of Matthew 25. {GC88 426.1 1888}

In the summer and autumn of 1844, the proclamation, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh,” was given. The two classes represented by the wise and foolish virgins were then developed,—one class who looked with joy to the LORD’S appearing, and who had been diligently preparing to meet him; another class that, influenced by fear, and acting from impulse, had been satisfied with a theory of the truth, but were destitute of the GRACE OF GOD. In the parable, when the bridegroom came, “they that were ready went in with him to the marriage.” The coming of the bridegroom, here brought to view, takes place before the marriage. The marriage represents the reception by CHRIST of his kingdom. The HOLY CITY, the NEW JERUSALEM, which is the capital and representative of the kingdom, is called “the bride, the LAMB’S wife.” Said the angel to John, “Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the LAMB’S wife.” “He carried me away in the spirit,” says the prophet, “and showed me that great city, the HOLY Jerusalem, descending out of Heaven from GOD.” [Revelation 21:9, 10.] Clearly, then, the bride represents the HOLY city, and the virgins that go out to meet the bridegroom are a symbol of the church. In the Revelation the people of GOD are said to be the guests at the marriage supper. [Revelation 19:9.] If guests, they cannot be represented also as the bride. CHRIST, as stated by the prophet Daniel, will receive from the ANCIENT OF DAYS in Heaven, “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom,” he will receive the NEW JERUSALEM, the capital of his kingdom, “prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” [Daniel 7:14; Revelation 21:2.] Having received the kingdom, he will come in his glory, as KING OF KINGS, and LORD OF LORDS, for the redemption of his people, who are to “sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob,” at his table in his kingdom, [Matthew 8:11; Luke 22:30.] to partake of the marriage supper of the LAMB. {GC88 426.2 1888}

The proclamation, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh,” in the summer of 1844, led thousands to expect the immediate advent of the LORD. At the appointed time the Bridegroom came, not to the earth, as the people expected, but to the ANCIENT OF DAYS in Heaven, to the marriage, the reception of his kingdom. “They that were ready went in with him to the marriage, and the door was shut.” They were not to be present in person at the marriage; for it takes place in Heaven, while they are upon the earth. The followers of CHRIST are to “wait for their LORD, when he will return from the wedding.” [Luke 12:36.] But they are to understand his work, and to follow him by faith as he goes in before GOD. It is in this sense that they are said to go in to the marriage. {GC88 427.1 1888}

In the parable it was those that had oil in their vessels with their lamps that went in to the marriage. Those who, with a knowledge of the truth from the SCRIPTURES, had also the SPIRIT and GRACE OF GOD, and who, in the night of their bitter trial, had patiently waited, searching the BIBLE for clearer light,—these saw the truth concerning the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN and the SAVIOUR’S change of ministration, and by faith they followed him in his work in the SANCTUARY above. And all who through the testimony of the SCRIPTURES accept the same truths, following CHRIST by faith as he enters in before GOD to perform the last work of MEDIATION, and at its close to receive his kingdom,—all these are represented as going in to the marriage. {GC88 427.2 1888}

In the parable of Matthew 22 the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, [Matthew 22:11.]—to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the LAMB. [Revelation 7:14.] He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on, are accepted of GOD, and accounted worthy of a share in his kingdom and a seat upon his THRONE. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of GOD, is that of the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT, the closing work in the SANCTUARY above. {GC88 428.1 1888}

When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in all ages have professed to be followers of CHRIST have been examined and decided, then, and not till then, probation will close, and the door of mercy will be shut. Thus in the one short sentence, “They that were ready went in with him to the marriage, and the door was shut,” we are carried down through the SAVIOUR’S final ministration, to the time when the great work for man’s salvation shall be completed. {GC88 428.2 1888}

In the service of the earthly SANCTUARY, which, as we have seen, is a figure of the service in the heavenly, when the high priest on the DAY OF ATONEMENT entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, the ministration in the FIRST APARTMENT ceased. GOD commanded, “There shall be no man in the TABERNACLE of the congregation when he goeth in to make an ATONEMENT in the HOLY PLACE, until he come out.” [Leviticus 16:17.] So when CHRIST entered the HOLY OF HOLIES to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT, he ceased his ministration in the FIRST APARTMENT. But when the ministration in the FIRST APARTMENT ended, the ministration in the SECOND APARTMENT began. When in the typical service the high priest left the HOLY on the DAY OF ATONEMENT, he went in before GOD to present the blood of the sin-offering in behalf of all Israel who truly repented of their sins. So CHRIST had only completed one part of his work as our INTERCESSOR, to enter upon another portion of the work, and he still pleaded his blood before the FATHER in behalf of sinners. {GC88 428.3 1888}

This subject was not understood by Adventists in 1844. After the passing of the time when the SAVIOUR was expected, they still believed his coming to be near; they held that they had reached an important crisis, and that the work of CHRIST as man’s INTERCESSOR before GOD, had ceased. It appeared to them to be taught in the BIBLE, that man’s probation would close a short time before the actual coming of the LORD in the clouds of heaven. This seemed evident from those SCRIPTURES which point to a time when men will seek, knock, and cry at the door of mercy, and it will not be opened. And it was a question with them whether the date to which they had looked for the coming of CHRIST might not rather mark the beginning of this period which was to immediately precede his coming. Having given the warning of the Judgment near, they felt that their work for the world was done, and they lost their burden of soul for the salvation of sinners, while the bold and blasphemous scoffing of the ungodly seemed to them another evidence that the SPIRIT OF GOD had been withdrawn from the rejecters of his mercy. All this confirmed them in the belief that probation had ended, or, as they then expressed it, “the door of mercy was shut.” {GC88 429.1 1888}

Now was seen the application of those words of CHRIST in the revelation, addressed to the church at this very time: “These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth: I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] {GC88 430.1 1888}

It is those who by faith follow JESUS in the great work of the ATONEMENT, who receive the benefits of his MEDIATION in their behalf; while those who reject the light which brings to view this work of ministration, are not benefited thereby. The Jews who rejected the light given at CHRIST’S first advent, and refused to believe on him as the SAVIOUR of the world, could not receive pardon through him. When JESUS at his ascension entered by his own blood into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to shed upon his disciples the blessings of his MEDIATION, the Jews were left in total darkness, to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows had ceased. That door by which men had formerly found access to GOD, was no longer open. The Jews had refused to seek him in the only way whereby he could then be found, through the ministration in the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. Therefore they found no communion with GOD. To them the door was shut. They had no knowledge of CHRIST as the true sacrifice and the only MEDIATOR before GOD; hence they could not receive the benefits of his MEDIATION. {GC88 430.2 1888}

Chapter XXV – GOD’S LAW Immutable

The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in Heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” [Revelation 11:19.] The ARK OF GOD’S testament is in the HOLY OF HOLIES, the SECOND APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY. In the ministration of the earthly TABERNACLE, which served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things,” this APARTMENT was opened only upon the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, for the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. Therefore the announcement that the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in Heaven, and the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT was seen, points to the opening of the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, in 1844, as CHRIST entered there to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT. Those who by faith followed their great HIGH PRIEST, as he entered upon his ministry in the MOST HOLY PLACE, beheld the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT. As they had studied the subject of the SANCTUARY, they had come to understand the SAVIOUR’S change of ministration, and they saw that he was now officiating before the ARK OF GOD, pleading his blood in behalf of sinners. {GC88 433.1 1888}

The ARK in the TABERNACLE on earth contained the two TABLES OF STONE, upon which were inscribed the precepts of the LAW OF GOD. The ARK was merely a receptacle for the tables of the law, and the presence of these DIVINE PRECEPTS gave to it its value and sacredness. When the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in Heaven, the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT was seen. Within the HOLY OF HOLIES, in the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN, the divine law is sacredly enshrined,—the law that was spoken by GOD himself amid the thunders of Sinai, and written with HIS OWN FINGER on the TABLES OF STONE. {GC88 433.2 1888}

The LAW OF GOD in the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the TABLES OF STONE, and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch, were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point, were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the SAVIOUR’S words, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in nowise pass from the law.” [Matthew 5:18.] The LAW OF GOD, being a revelation of his will, a transcript of his character, must forever endure, “as a faithful witness in Heaven.” Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: “Forever, O LORD, thy word is settled in Heaven.” “All HIS COMMANDMENTS are sure. They stand fast forever and ever.” [Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8.] {GC88 434.1 1888}

In the very BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE is the FOURTH COMMANDMENT, as it was first proclaimed: “Remember the SABBATH day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the SABBATH of the LORD thy GOD; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy SON, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the LORD blessed the SABBATH day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.] {GC88 434.2 1888}

Those who received the light concerning the SANCTUARY and the immutability of the LAW OF GOD, were filled with joy and wonder, as they saw the beauty and harmony of the system of truth that opened to their understanding. They desired that the light which appeared to them so precious might be imparted to all Christians; and they could not but believe that it would be joyfully accepted. But truths that would place them at variance with the world were not welcome to many who claimed to be followers of CHRIST. Obedience to the FOURTH COMMANDMENT required a sacrifice from which the majority drew back. {GC88 454.1 1888}

The majority of Adventists rejected the truths concerning the SANCTUARY and the LAW OF GOD, and many also renounced their faith in the Advent movement, and adopted unsound and conflicting views of the prophecies which applied to that work. Some were led into the error of repeatedly fixing upon a definite time for the coming of CHRIST. The light which was now shining on the subject of the SANCTUARY would have shown them that no prophetic period extends to the second advent; that the exact time of this event is not foretold. But, turning from the light, they continued to set time after time for the LORD to come, and as often they were disappointed. {GC88 456.1 1888}

In the typical service, only those who had come before GOD with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin-offering, were transferred to the SANCTUARY, had a part in the service of the DAY OF ATONEMENT. So in the great day of FINAL ATONEMENT and INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT, the only cases considered are those of the professed people of GOD. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a later period. “Judgment must begin at the HOUSE OF GOD; and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel?” [1 Peter 4:17.] {GC88 480.1 1888}

In the typical service the high priest, having made the ATONEMENT for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So CHRIST, at the close of his work as a MEDIATOR, will appear, “without sin unto salvation,” [Hebrews 9:28.] to bless his waiting people with ETERNAL life. As the priest, in removing the sins from the SANCTUARY, confessed them upon the head of the scapegoat, so CHRIST will place all these sins upon Satan, the originator and instigator of sin. THE SCAPE-GOAT, BEARING THE SINS OF ISRAEL, WAS SENT AWAY “UNTO A LAND NOT INHABITED;” [Leviticus 16:22.] SO SATAN, BEARING THE GUILT OF ALL THE SINS which he has caused GOD’S people to commit, WILL BE FOR A THOUSAND YEARS CONFINED TO THE EARTH, WHICH WILL THEN BE DESOLATE, WITHOUT INHABITANT, and he will at last suffer the full penalty of sin, in the fires that shall destroy all the wicked. Thus the great PLAN OF REDEMPTION will reach its accomplishment in the final eradication of sin, and the deliverance of all who have been willing to renounce evil. {GC88 485.3 1888}

All who have received the light upon these subjects are to bear testimony of the great truths which GOD has committed to them. The SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN is the very center of CHRIST’S work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the PLAN OF REDEMPTION, bringing us down to the very close of time, and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin. It is of the utmost importance that all should thoroughly investigate these subjects, and be able to give an answer to every one that asketh them a reason of the hope that is in them. {GC88 488.3 1888} {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 11}

When the work of the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT closes, the destiny of all will have been decided for life or death. Probation is ended a short time before the appearing of the LORD in the clouds of heaven. CHRIST in the Revelation, looking forward to that time, declares: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 22:11, 12.] {GC88 491.1 1888}

The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state—men will be planting and building, eating and drinking, all unconscious that the final, irrevocable decision has been pronounced in the SANCTUARY above. Before the flood, after Noah entered the ARK, GOD shut him in, and shut the ungodly out; but for seven days the people, knowing not that their doom was fixed, continued their careless, pleasure-loving life, and mocked the warnings of impending judgment. “So,” says the SAVIOUR, “shall also the coming of the SON OF MAN be.” [Matthew 24:39.] Silently, unnoticed as the midnight thief, will come the decisive hour which marks the fixing of every man’s destiny, the final withdrawal of mercy’s offer to guilty men. {GC88 491.2 1888}

A single angel destroyed all the first-born of the Egyptians, and filled the land with mourning. When David offended against GOD by numbering the people, one angel caused that terrible destruction by which his sin was punished. The same destructive power exercised by holy angels when GOD commands, will be exercised by evil angels when he permits. There are forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread desolation everywhere. {GC88 614.2 1888}

Those who honor the LAW OF GOD have been accused of bringing judgments upon the world, and they will be regarded as the cause of the fearful convulsions of nature and the strife and bloodshed among men that are filling the earth with woe. The power attending the last warning has enraged the wicked; their anger is kindled against all who have received the message, and Satan will excite to still greater intensity the spirit of hatred and persecution. {GC88 614.3 1888}

When GOD’S PRESENCE was finally withdrawn from the Jewish nation, priests and people knew it not. Though under the control of Satan, and swayed by the most horrible and malignant passions, they still regarded themselves as the chosen of GOD. The ministration in the temple continued; sacrifices were offered upon its polluted altars, and daily the divine blessing was invoked upon a people guilty of the BLOOD OF GOD’S DEAR SON, and seeking to slay his ministers and apostles. So when the irrevocable decision of the SANCTUARY has been pronounced, and the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the SPIRIT OF GOD has been finally withdrawn; and the Satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for GOD. {GC88 614.4 1888}

When CHRIST ceases his intercession in the SANCTUARY, the unmingled wrath threatened against those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark, [Revelation 14:9, 10.] will be poured out. The PLAGUES upon Egypt when GOD was about to deliver Israel, were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon the world just before the final deliverance of GOD’S people. Says the Revelator, in describing these terrific scourges, “There fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshiped his image.” The sea “became as the blood of a dead man, and every living soul died in the sea.” And “the rivers and fountains of waters became blood.” [Revelation 16:2-6, 8, 9.] Terrible as these inflictions are, GOD’S justice stands fully vindicated. The angel of GOD declares, “Thou art righteous, O LORD, . . . because thou hast judged thus. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy. [Revelation 16:2-6, 8, 9.] By condemning the people of GOD to death they have as truly incurred the guilt of their blood, as if it had been shed by their hands. In like manner CHRIST declared the Jews of his time guilty of all the blood of holy men which had been shed since the days of Abel; for they possessed the same spirit, and were seeking to do the same work, with these murderers of the prophets. {GC88 627.2 1888}

Now the event takes place, foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the DAY OF ATONEMENT. When the ministration in the HOLY OF HOLIES had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the SANCTUARY by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, then the scape-goat was presented alive before the LORD; and in presence of the congregation of high priest confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” [Leviticus 16:21.] In like manner, when the work of ATONEMENT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY has been completed, then in the presence of GOD and heavenly angels, and the host of the redeemed, the sins of GOD’S people will be placed upon Satan; he will be declared guilty of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so Satan will be banished to the desolate earth, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness. {GC88 657.3 1888}

Unless you change, you will constantly erect barriers around your children to hold them away from CHRIST. You will bind them with the world because it pleases their carnal minds. When the angel with the writer’s inkhorn places a mark upon those who love JESUS and keep HIS COMMANDMENTS, another angel will follow with destroying weapons in his hands, and the commandment will go forth, “Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY.” Ezekiel 9:6. Will you not carefully look at these things and think upon them? Will you not, for the sake of your children, do the work for which GOD has made you responsible? {Lt10-1888}

None of these discordant elements will be able eventually to thwart the purposes of GOD in the preparation of a people to stand in the great day and in the final completion of the PLAN OF SALVATION. But the works of all are to bear the test of the great Judge. Angels of GOD are watching the development of character; angels of GOD are weighing moral worth in the balances of the SANCTUARY; and the record of every man’s work is being made daily in the books of heaven. And each will receive a reward according to his works. {Lt33a-1888}

Angels of GOD are watching the development of character; angels of GOD are weighing in the balances of the SANCTUARY moral worth. The record is being made daily in the books of heaven of every man’s work. None of these discordant elements will be able to retard the GREAT DAY OF GOD and the final completion of His ETERNAL plans. Truth is advancing. Missionary fields are constantly opening, and those who use the means which GOD has entrusted to them as His stewards to spread the knowledge of truth, which is of heavenly origin, are truly missionaries of GOD and co-laborers with JESUS CHRIST. “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” {Lt33-1888}

I have been shown that our disappointment in 1844 was not because of failure in the reckoning of prophetic periods, but in the events to take place. The earth was believed to be the SANCTUARY. But the SANCTUARY which was to be CLEANSED at the end of the prophetic periods was the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and not the earth as we all supposed. The SAVIOUR did enter the MOST HOLY PLACE in 1844 to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY, and the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT had commenced for the dead. {Lt38-1888}

You must, if saved in the kingdom of GOD, be CHRISTLIKE at home and abroad, in health, in sickness, when amid the world, when in the SANCTUARY. I know you are in danger, and I write you this letter to warn you. When the heavenly record bears testimony of your fidelity and when CHRIST shall come to give to every man as his works have been, every trial patiently endured will receive a reward. Will you read carefully 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13. If you will just make this your experience, as GOD requires you to do, you will have a hope that maketh not ashamed. “For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain: but even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our GOD to speak unto you the GOSPEL OF GOD with much contention. For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: but as we were allowed of GOD to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but GOD, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; GOD is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of CHRIST. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: so being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the GOSPEL OF GOD only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. For ye remember, brethren, our labor and traveil: for laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the GOSPEL OF GOD. Ye are witnesses, and GOD also, how holily and justly and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: as ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, that ye would walk worthy of GOD, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. For this cause also thank we GOD without ceasing, because, when ye received the WORD OF GOD which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the WORD OF GOD, which effectually worketh also in you that believe” 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13. {Lt9a-1889}

Every temptation and every suggestion that he has to gratify his inclination and passion, he meets and overcomes with his resolution, “I keep under my body and bring it into subjection.” Then he gives the reason, “lest that by any means when I have preached to others I myself should be a castaway.” What a tremendous result is here brought out! How clearly it is presented before us that he must carry out the principles of truth which he has accepted and claimed to believe. [He] must carry out these principles when he sits down at another’s table or when he engages in conversation with others. There is one principle to be kept ever before him, and that is that, as a representative of JESUS CHRIST, he must gather the divine rays from glory. He must reveal that the light which he grasps with his intellect has reached not only the chambers of the mind but has taken possession of the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. He must exhibit all the aptness, all the advantages, of this kind, that he may elevate these ennobling truths and the light which is of heavenly origin. {Ms3-1888}

Now you are going to your homes. What has this meeting done for you? Has it brought you to where you can see the peril that your souls and other souls are in? Do you feel that you must get home and engage in this work as you have never done before, that you should train and discipline your children, that you should take the BIBLE into your homes and simplify its truths so that your children may see the grandness and goodness of the truth and the LOVE OF GOD. And as they see the importance of it in your home, you should bring them up in the SERVICE OF GOD, for everyone may be a missionary, in the home and neighborhood. We may have the whole truth and we may believe every principle of it, but we do not want to keep it in the outer court; we want it to come into the SANCTUARY of the soul that it may take hold on our lives and that we may have CHRIST in our hearts. {Ms4-1888}

What does that say to us? “This is my beloved SON, in whom I am well pleased.” It says to you, I, GOD, have sent My SON into your world, and through Him is opened all heaven to fallen man. After the sin of Adam, man was divorced from GOD, but CHRIST came in. He was represented through the sacrificial offerings, until He came to our world. But here CHRIST offers this prayer, and what does it say to us? The human race is accepted in the BELOVED. His long human arm encircles the race, while with His divine arm He grasps the THRONE of the Infinite, and He opens to man all of heaven. The gates are ajar today. CHRIST is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and your prayers can go up to the FATHER. {Ms8-1888}

Now CHRIST is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And what is He doing? Making ATONEMENT for us, CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY from the sins of the people. Then we must enter by faith into the SANCTUARY with Him. We must commence the work in the SANCTUARY of our souls. We are to CLEANSE ourselves from all defilement. We “must CLEANSE ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the [fear] of GOD.” Satan will come and tempt you, and you will give way to his temptations. What then? Why, come and humble your hearts in confession and by faith grasp the arm of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Believe that CHRIST will take your confession and hold up His hands before the FATHER—[hands] that have been bruised and wounded in our behalf—and He will make an ATONEMENT for all who will come with confession. What if you cannot understand about this matter? He says, “He that lacketh these things [is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins].” {Ms8-1888}

What are our young men doing? JESUS is waiting to bind their hearts up with His great heart of love, to bind their interests with His own. He says to them, Young men, flee youthful lusts. Will you obey His voice? You are surely not doing this now. The truth is an inherent power and, if brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, will draw men and women to CHRIST. It will win its way to human hearts. To those who look to Him, CHRIST by HIS HOLY SPIRIT reveals the beauty of truth. He shows Himself to be the sin-pardoning SAVIOUR. {Ms8a-1888}

But when those who are striving with all their power to overcome confess their sins, GOD is faithful and just to forgive their sins and to CLEANSE them from all unrighteousness for CHRIST’S sake. When brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, the truth of GOD works by faith and purifies the soul, elevating, refining, ennobling it. {Ms8a-1888}

And when the position of CHRIST changed from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY PLACE in the SANCTUARY, it is by faith to enter with Him, understand His work, and then to present to the world the last message of mercy that is to be given to the world. And what is it? It is a message to prepare a people for the SECOND COMING of the SON OF MAN. It is GOD’S great day of preparation, and therefore every minister of JESUS CHRIST should have in his course of action, in the burden of his labor, a zeal and living interest and intensity in his efforts which is appropriate to the truth that is for this time, which is claimed to be the last message of mercy to our world. {Ms13-1888}

But here is the company. John sees it and wonders what means the scene. The account goes back in the chapter previous. I will not read it, but it shows where heaven sends a message to the children of men, and they begin to embrace it and follow the LAMB step by step until they enter into the SANCTUARY, and on till they are redeemed and stand with the LAMB on Mount Zion. And then it is explained why their song was so different from any other song. It was a new song. And he goes on to state that in their mouth was found no guile, for they were without fault before the THRONE of GOD. {Ms13-1888}

Well, suppose you are walking in the light, what then? Why, your testimonies will be light. You will talk light, and all this evil surmising and evil speaking will be put away. You will talk [light], and we will not be thinking of ourselves and what others are doing, but what GOD and JESUS are doing. Well, what are they doing? They are CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY. Well, we should be with Him in this work and be CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY of our souls of all unrighteousness, that our names may be written in the LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE, that our sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the LORD. It is the most solemn work that was ever given to mortals. {Ms26-1888}

Why there is so much uncertainty, so little earnestness and zeal with those who preach the last message of mercy to the world is because the truth is kept in the outer court; it is not brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul. The power of the truth is not revealed in their character. They talk about the LAW OF GOD but practice neither doctrines nor the truth in their life. Sin is bound up with their heart and interwoven into their character, and they have no courage or confidence to put forth earnest labor, for they know that CHRIST is not brought into living connection with their life practices. They have separated their souls from GOD by their own wicked works; they do not love GOD supremely, neither do they love their neighbor as themselves, and their labor is void of real results. {Ms27-1888}

The LORD understands all about your trials; and however impossible it may seem to live for GOD, you will find that the way will appear. When your faith has been tested, as the LORD opened the Red Sea, so the waters will divide, and his providence will make a path for your feet. It is safe to serve GOD. It may not be to your worldly advantage to keep GOD’S ways; but the transgressor will be at an ETERNAL loss. “For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. But unto you that fear my name shall the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS arise with healing in his wings.” We must walk carefully and humbly before the LORD in these precious hours of probation. We must draw close to JESUS till his light is shed upon us. It is the desire of our SAVIOUR that we should be the light of the world, reflecting every ray that shines upon us. What straight paths should we make for our feet, so that the lame may not be turned out of the way! This is an age of light. The LORD of heaven is sending the rays of light into the homes of the world. A special light is shining upon the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD. The door of the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY stands ajar, and within, as in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the ancient SANCTUARY, is the ARK of the testimony. The law of the MOST HIGH is beneath the MERCY SEAT. The light of this LAW is shining upon the world, penetrating the moral darkness that has covered the people. {RH, January 31, 1888 par. 11}

The Jewish leaders were filled with SPIRITUAL pride. Their desire for the glorification of self, manifested itself even in the services of the SANCTUARY. They loved the highest seats in the synagogues, and the praise of men. They loved greetings in the market-places, and were gratified with the sound of their titles on the lips of men. As real piety declined, they became more jealous for their traditions and ceremonies. Do we not see the same perverseness in the Christian church of today? Those who love GOD with sincere hearts should the more earnestly desire the truth as it is in JESUS. They should search the SCRIPTURES with humble hearts, intensely desiring to know what is truth; for CHRIST prayed that his disciples might be sanctified through the truth. {RH, February 7, 1888 par. 10}

GOD did not long permit this faithful man to remain in darkness. “And the LORD said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff. Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.” At the siege of Jericho, the children of Israel had transgressed the commandments of the LORD, and broken the terms upon which he had promised to be their defense and deliverer. Everything in this city was accursed, and was to be utterly destroyed, with the exception of its gold and silver, and its vessels of brass and iron. These were to be consecrated to the LORD, and to be brought into the SANCTUARY; but Achan, the SON of Carmi, had disregarded the directions of the LORD, and had taken of the spoils of Jericho. The camp was searched, and the guilty man stood before Joshua and the elders of Israel. Joshua said: “Tell me now what thou hast done.” And he said: “When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it.” The sin of this man had brought disaster upon Israel. The LORD would not be with them until the camp was CLEANSED and Achan was destroyed. The summary punishment visited upon him, was to teach Israel how GOD regarded iniquity, that they might be careful to obey every direction that was given them, and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS and live. {RH, March 20, 1888 par. 3}

The sons of Eli ministered in holy office, and stood before GOD as priests to offer sacrifice for the sins of the people; but they gave little heed to HIS COMMANDMENTS, and set aside the rules that were to govern the services of the SANCTUARY. In so doing they cast contempt upon the great sacrifice to come; for these priests had so long practiced iniquity that they had lost all sense of the significance of this service. {RH, March 20, 1888 par. 6}

It was not enough that the ARK and the SANCTUARY were in the midst of Israel. It was not enough that the priests offered sacrifices, and that the people were called the children of GOD. The LORD does not regard the requests of those who cherish iniquity in their hearts, and it is written that “he that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” {RH, March 20, 1888 par. 12}

The day of final settlements is just before us. In that solemn and awful hour the unfaithfulness of the husband will be opened to the wife, and the unfaithfulness of the wife, to the husband. Parents will then learn, for the first time, what was the real character of their children, and children will see the errors and mistakes that marked the lives of their parents. The man who robbed his neighbor through false representations, is not to escape with his ill-gotten gains. GOD has an exact record in his books, of every unjust account and every unfair dealing. The secret doings of the licentious man are all known to GOD. GOD is not deceived by appearances of piety. He makes no mistake in his estimation of character. Men may be deceived by those who are corrupt in heart, but GOD pierces all disguises and reads the inner life. The moral worth of every soul is weighed in the balance of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Shall not these solemn thoughts have an influence upon us, that we may cease to do evil, and learn to do well? There is nothing gained by a life of sin but hopeless despair. {RH, March 27, 1888 par. 13}

Let faith lay hold on the promises of GOD. JESUS is mighty to save his people from their sins. Light from heaven has illumined our pathway. Sin has been revealed to us by the WORD and the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, that we may not be found transgressors of the DIVINE PRECEPTS; and there is no opportunity to plead the excuse of ignorance. The command is, “Depart from iniquity.” We must urge the principles of truth upon old and young. We must reach a higher plane. We must hunger and thirst after righteousness. Let the cry go up to GOD for wisdom, for light, for divine power. “Ask, and it shall be given you.” We are in the perils of the last days. The Judgment is before us, and how shall we appear who have had light from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, unless we “CLEANSE ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,” and perfect “holiness in the fear of GOD?” {RH, March 27, 1888 par. 18}

We are living in the antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT, and our HIGH PRIEST is in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, pleading his blood in behalf of his people. The mighty achievement upon Calvary, should not become an old, forgotten story to any of us. The object of these camp-meetings is to arouse the mind to a more vivid sense of the solemnity of these things. Grasp the truth as it is presented to you for your soul’s sake. Cherish every new idea, every divine enlightenment, lest you let the truth slip from your heart, as water from a leaky vessel. Seek to walk in every ray of light that comes to you through the ministration of the WORD. As we grow in the knowledge of the truth, we shall have fellowship one with another, and the more we think of JESUS and his matchless love, the deeper will that love take possession of our heart, mind, and soul, and we will enter into the scenes of CHRIST’S HUMILIATION, and become partakers of the divine nature. {RH, June 26, 1888 par. 6}

In the year that King Uzziah died, Isaiah was permitted in vision to look into the HOLY PLACE, and into the HOLY OF HOLIES in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The CURTAINS of the INNERMOST SANCTUARY were drawn aside, and a THRONE high and lifted up, towering as it were to the very heavens, was revealed to his gaze. An indescribable glory emanated from a personage on the THRONE, and his train filled the temple, as his glory will finally fill the earth. CHERUBIM were on either side of the MERCY SEAT, as guards round the great king, and they glowed with the glory that enshrouded them from the presence of GOD. As their songs of praise resounded in deep, earnest notes of adoration, the pillars of the gate trembled, as if shaken by an earthquake. These holy beings sang forth the praise and GLORY OF GOD with lips unpolluted with sin. The contrast between the feeble praise which he had been accustomed to bestow upon the CREATOR and the fervid praises of the seraphim, astonished and humiliated the prophet. He had for the time being, the sublime privilege of appreciating the spotless purity of JEHOVAH’S exalted character. While he listened to the song of the angels, as they cried, “Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory,” the glory, the infinite power, and the unsurpassed majesty of the LORD passed before his vision, and was impressed upon his soul. In the light of this matchless radiance, that made manifest all he could bear in the revelation of the divine character, his own inward defilement stood out before him with startling clearness. His very words seemed vile to him. {RH, October 16, 1888 par. 8}

But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? For all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” 1 Chronicles 29:14. The time when David was to be gathered to his fathers had almost come; but before his career closed, he turned his attention to the SANCTUARY to be erected for the LORD. David was not the one chosen of the LORD to build the temple; but he had no jealousy in his heart on this account, and manifested none the less zeal and earnestness in its behalf. He had prepared in abundance the most costly material,–gold, silver, onyx stones, and stones of divers colors, marble, and the most precious woods. And now all this valuable treasure that he had collected must be committed to others; for other hands must build the house for the ARK, the symbol of GOD’S PRESENCE. {RH, December 11, 1888 par. 1}

John was shown the last work for this time (Revelation 14:9-12), and he saw a people of whom he says, “Here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS.” John tells us what was opened to him in vision: “And the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” This vision represents a people whose attention was called to the SANCTUARY in heaven. There John saw the ARK OF GOD, containing the TABLES OF STONE whereon was engraven the LAW OF GOD; and this people have been seeking to be in harmony with heaven by keeping all GOD’S commandments. There has been great opposition because they have respected the SABBATH of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT, which by the secular and religious world has been ignored. {RH, December 18, 1888 par. 8}

Eternity demands of you individually a solid experience, such as will stand the test; and it is in this probationary period that you must obtain thorough transformation of character. Pure and undefiled religion is to be brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul. Each has a work to do, and no friend or minister can do it for him; each must repent for himself, and confess his sins to GOD. Make thorough work of it. Believe for yourself; have the GRACE OF GOD in your heart for yourself. GOD will have his true, faithful witnesses in every walk of life, testifying to the power of his grace. They may be humble, but they will be living in the sunshine of GOD’S countenance, with the BIBLE as their guide. {RH, December 18, 1888 par. 6}

Let us go forward together to reach the great reward and join the song of the redeemed. If we ever sing the praises of GOD in Heaven, we must first sing them here. Out of grateful hearts the notes of thanksgiving should spring continually, and our lips should tell of the goodness of the LORD, and magnify his holy name. All complaint and murmuring should cease among the children of the MOST HIGH. We ought to be the happiest people on the earth, because we have a mighty SAVIOUR in the SANCTUARY above, who has died that we might live. It might be inferred from our sad countenances and words of complaint that JESUS was still in Joseph’s tomb, with a great stone rolled before the door; but I declare to you that JESUS is risen, that he loves you, that he represents you in the courts of his glory, making intercession for you. We should rejoice and praise GOD with songs of unfeigned thankfulness. Let us determine that if it costs everything we will have Heaven and become partakers of the divine nature. {ST, January 27, 1888 par. 9}

The psalmist David had this experience. When he looked upon the flourishing condition of the wicked he was envious of their success, and said, “Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. Verily I have CLEANSED my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency. For all the day long have I been plagued.” But when he went into the SANCTUARY, and communed with the LORD, he no longer desired the portion of the wicked; for then he understood their end. He saw that their way led to destruction at last, and their pleasure was but for a season. Envy had no more a place in his heart. His rebellious spirit bowed in humble submission to his GOD, and he declared, “Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.” He saw that the guidance of the LORD was of infinitely more value than all the temporal prosperity of the world; for the way of the LORD kept the feet in the paths of righteousness that lead to ETERNAL glory. {ST, February 3, 1888 par. 3}

The true servant of GOD will take the suggestions and temptations of Satan to the THRONE OF GRACE, where peace and submission will flow into the soul. When he enters into the SANCTUARY he will know the end of those who have not the fear of the LORD before their eyes. The LORD has heard our murmuring. He says, “Ye have said, It is vain to serve GOD; and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance?” This question will present itself, with more or less force, to the minds of the people of GOD; but before you answer it think of the exalted honor that the GOD of Heaven has conferred upon you. Think how he has given HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, that a way of salvation might be opened for you. Think how he has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light, called you to be the children of the MOST HIGH, called you to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away. Is this no compensation? no encouragement? {ST, February 3, 1888 par. 4}

In these last days there is a call from Heaven inviting you to keep the statutes and ordinances of the LORD. The world has set at naught the LAW OF JEHOVAH; but GOD will not be left without a witness to his righteousness, or without a people in the earth to proclaim his truth. The door of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY has been opened, and no man can shut it, and the light of the HOLY OF HOLIES is shining into the world. The people of GOD have had their attention called to the ARK of the testimony, and the law within it has been revealed with its unalterable precepts. In holy vision, John saw the remnant church on the earth, in an age of lawlessness, and he points them out in unmistakable language: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS.” They are in harmony with that law that rests in the ARK in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The whole duty of man is summed up in its SACRED PRECEPTS. In the heart of the LAW is the COMMANDMENT enjoining upon man the observance of the SABBATH of JEHOVAH, which the world and the church have trodden under their feet. For centuries men have walked in blindness concerning the true SABBATH, and the times of this ignorance GOD winked at; but now is the day of reformation, and he calls upon men everywhere to repent. When the light of GOD’S disregarded commandment shone upon the path of those who sincerely loved GOD, they delayed not to keep HIS STATUTES. They realized that they must come out from the world and be separate, and touch not the unclean, that they might claim the promise, “I will receive you, and will be a FATHER unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the LORD ALMIGHTY.” They became the repairers of the breach that has been made in the LAW OF GOD, because they turned away their feet from the SABBATH, from doing their pleasure on GOD’S HOLY DAY, and called the SABBATH a delight, the HOLY of the LORD, honorable, and did honor him, not speaking their own words or finding their own pleasure. {ST, February 3, 1888 par. 5}

Now let us seek CHRIST for ourselves, and find him precious to our souls. Let us minister to our brethren both in and out of the church. It is our privilege to be constantly strengthening those around us, and shedding an influence that will bless and elevate. Do not sow the seeds of envy, strife, and doubt. Let your conversation be holy before GOD. Seek in every way that you may grow up into a fit temple for the indwelling of the HOLY SPIRIT. You must be living stones, reflecting and emitting the light of Heaven. The truth of GOD has quarried you out of the world to be squared and hewed and fitted for the heavenly building. The robe of your character must be washed till it is spotless, in the fountain opened for all uncleanness. Your moral worth will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and if you are found wanting, you will be at an ETERNAL loss. All the coarseness, all the roughness, must be removed from your character before JESUS comes; for when he comes, the preparation for every soul is ended. If you have not laid aside your envy, your jealousies, your hatred one against another, you cannot enter into the kingdom of GOD. You would only carry the same disposition with you; but there will be nothing of this character in the world to come. Nothing will exist there but love and joy and harmony. Some will have brighter crowns than others, but there will be no jealous thoughts in any heart among the redeemed. Each one will be perfectly satisfied, for all will be rewarded according to their work; for “they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars forever and ever.” Everyone will know that those who have been instrumental in winning souls to JESUS have engaged in the greatest work that ever employed the powers of man. Oh! shall we not bend every energy to this great and noble work, not seeking to destroy and tear down, but by every word and act, with all the tact and influence at our command, seek to save and build up others in the MOST HOLY faith? {ST, February 10, 1888 par. 12}

In the time of ancient Israel the priests critically examined every offering that was brought as a sacrifice. If any defect was discovered in the animal presented for the service of the SANCTUARY, it was refused, for the LORD had commanded that the offering should be “without blemish.” We are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice to GOD; and should we not seek to make the offering as perfect as possible? GOD has given us every instruction necessary for our physical, mental, and moral well-being, and it is the duty of every one of us to bring our habits of life into conformity with the divine standard, in every particular. Will the LORD be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer? “Thou shalt love the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart.” If you do love him with all your heart, you will desire to give him the best service of your life, and you will be constantly seeking to bring every power of your being into harmony with the laws that will promote your ability to do his will. You will not feel satisfied to present to your merciful HEAVENLY FATHER an offering enfeebled by indulgence of appetite and passion. You will plead for divine help and healing. And the grace of CHRIST will enable you to overcome your perverted appetites, and begin a work of reformation in your life. You are not to follow the customs of the world. “Be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” {ST, February 17, 1888 par. 2}

This fact is illustrated in the case of Nadab and Abihu. The LORD had kindled a sacred fire, from which the priests were to take coals, for the burning of INCENSE before the LORD. They were not to use strange fire in the services of the SANCTUARY; but, under the effects of strong drink, the sons of Aaron lost all sense of sacred things. They kindled their INCENSE from common fire, and disregarded the commandment of GOD. The LORD did not excuse their sin because they had unfitted themselves for their sacred duties by indulgence in drink. They were cut off from the congregation of Israel. GOD’S dealing with these transgressors should be a warning to the children of men today. You are to offer to GOD a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable. As these intoxicants are used, the same effects will follow as in the case of these priests of Israel. The conscience will lose its sensibility to sin, and a process of hardening to iniquity will most certainly take place, till the common and the sacred will lose all difference of significance. {ST, February 17, 1888 par. 7}

Eli did not manage his household according to GOD’S rules for family government. He followed his own judgment. He allowed Satan to take the reins in his own hands; and Eli found, when too late, that his children had been hurried to destruction. The favor of GOD was removed from his house and the curse of transgression was apparent in the corruption and evil that marked the course of his sons. They had no proper appreciation of the character of GOD or of the sacredness of HIS LAW. His service was to them a common thing. From childhood they had been accustomed to the SANCTUARY and its service, but instead of growing in reverence, they had lost all sense of its holiness and significance. The course of Eli in bringing up his children had resulted in this state of mind in his sons. The father had not corrected the irreverence for his authority, had not checked their disrespect for the solemn services of the SANCTUARY; and when they reached manhood, they were full of the deadly fruits of skepticism and rebellion. {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 6}

Though wholly unfit for the office, they were placed as priests in the SANCTUARY to minister before GOD. The LORD had given the most specific directions in regard to offering sacrifices; but these wicked men had carried their disregard of authority into the SERVICE OF GOD, and they did not give attention to the law of the offerings, which were to be made in the most solemn manner. The sins of the people were transferred by figure to the sacrifice, which represented CHRIST, the LAMB OF GOD that was to die for the sins of the world. The priests were commanded to eat in the TABERNACLE of certain portions of the peace-offering. By partaking of the sacrifice, and bearing their sins before GOD, they represented the work that CHRIST would do for us in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, by bearing our sins in his own body. The sons of Eli, instead of feeling the great solemnity of this service, only thought how they could gratify appetite, and they demanded of the people whatever part they desired, even taking by violence the portion that was to be consumed upon the ALTAR OF SACRIFICE as a type of the great sacrifice of the SON OF GOD on Calvary. This irreverence on the part of the priests soon robbed the offerings of their holy and solemn significance, and the people “abhorred the offering of the LORD.” The great antitypical sacrifice to which they were to look forward, was no longer a thing of meaning to them, “wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD.” {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 7}

Eli made a great mistake in permitting his sons to minister in holy office. By excusing their course, on one pretext and another, he became blinded to their sins, but at last they reached a pass when he could no longer hide his eyes from the crimes of his sons. The people complained of their violent deeds, and he was grieved and perplexed. The indulgent father had never decidedly commanded their obedience, and as they grew up, they cast off all restraint. They had been brought up to think of no one but themselves, and now they cared for no one else. They saw the grief of their father, but their hard hearts were not touched. They heard his mild admonitions, but they were not impressed, nor would they change their evil course though warned of the consequences of their sin. {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 8}

The child Samuel had been brought to Eli by the godly Hannah. He was to be devoted to the services of the SANCTUARY, and the responsibility of his education must now rest upon the aged priest. The sons of Eli, who should have been the instructors of the pious child, were wholly unfit for such a privilege. He had to be separated from their company, lest their evil influence should pollute his mind. But although Eli feared for their influence over Samuel, yet as a judge of Israel, he still sustained his wicked sons in the most sacred positions of trust. He permitted them to mingle their corruption with the HOLY SERVICE OF GOD, and to inflict injury on the cause of truth, that years could not efface. Eli’s sons were called the sons of Belial, for they knew not GOD. They were wholly devoted to the service of Satan; and yet because they were his sons, Eli did not deal with them as transgressors, but permitted them to dishonor GOD, and injure his people. But when the judge of Israel neglected his work, GOD took the matter in hand. {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 9}

And there came a man of GOD unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh’s house? and did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to offer upon mine ALTAR, to burn INCENSE, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings made by fire of the children of Israel? Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honorest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? Wherefore the LORD GOD of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me forever; but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. . . And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in mine heart and in my mind; and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed forever.” {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 10}

GOD held Eli responsible for the actions of his sons, and charged him with honoring his sons above the LORD. Eli had permitted the offering appointed of GOD, as a blessing to Israel, to be made a thing of abhorrence, rather than bring his sons to shame for their impious and abominable practices. Those who follow their own inclination in blind affection for their children, indulging them in the gratifications of their selfish desires, and do not bring to bear the authority of GOD to rebuke sin and correct evil, which is corrupting other souls, make it manifest that they are honoring their wicked children more than they honor GOD. They are more anxious to shield their reputation than to glorify GOD; more desirous to please their children than to please GOD and to keep his service from every appearance of evil. {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 11}

The promise had been made that the house of Aaron should walk before GOD forever; but these promises had been made on condition that they devoted themselves to the work of the SANCTUARY with singleness of heart, and honored GOD in all their ways, not serving self, or following their own perverse inclinations. Eli and his sons had been tested, and the LORD found them wholly unworthy of the exalted position of priests in his service. And GOD declared, “Be it far from me.” He could not carry out the good that he had meant to do them, because they failed to do their part. Long had GOD borne with the perverse ways of the house of Eli. He had given them space to repent, but they repented not, and the delayed sentence was finally executed. They were made contemptible before the people they had oppressed, and in one day, Eli and his sons died before the LORD; and the priesthood was taken from the family of Eli. {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 12}

The only way to be truly great is to be truly good. Those who are worthy will be trusted with important work, and will be placed in important positions. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” Had Eli been a wise and faithful father, he would have been a wise and faithful judge and priest. If he had restrained his sons at home, he would have restrained their evil practices in the SANCTUARY; and Israel would not have been corrupted by their abominations. If the sons of Eli had been dutiful sons they would have honored GOD and his service, and lived before him; but they dishonored their father, and brought contempt upon the SERVICE OF GOD, and they suffered the reward of their evil; for GOD had said, “Them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.” {ST, April 6, 1888 par. 13}

Elder Bates was keeping the SABBATH, and urged its importance. I did not feel its importance, and thought that Elder B. erred in dwelling upon the FOURTH COMMANDMENT more than upon the other nine. But the LORD gave me a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and I was shown the ARK OF GOD covered with the MERCY SEAT. Two angels stood one at either end of the ARK, with their wings spread over the MERCY SEAT, and their faces turned toward it. This my accompanying angel informed me represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward the LAW OF GOD which had been written by the FINGER OF GOD. JESUS raised the cover of the ARK, and I beheld the TABLES OF STONE on which the TEN COMMANDMENTS were written. I was amazed as I saw the FOURTH COMMANDMENT in the very center of the ten precepts, with a soft halo of light encircling it. Said the angel, ‘It is the only one of the ten which defines the LIVING GOD who created the heavens and the earth and all things that are therein. When the foundations of the earth were laid, then was also laid the foundation of the SABBATH. I was shown that if the true SABBATH had been kept there would never have been an infidel or an atheist. The observance of the SABBATH would have preserved the world from idolatry. The FOURTH COMMANDMENT has been trampled upon, therefore we are called upon to repair the breach in the law and plead for the broken down SABBATH. The man of sin who exalted himself above GOD, and thought to change times and laws, brought about the change of the SABBATH from the seventh to the first day of the week. In doing this he made a breach in the LAW OF GOD. Just prior to the GREAT DAY OF GOD, a message is sent forth to warn the people to come back to their allegiance to the LAW OF GOD which antichrist has broken down. Attention must be called to the breach in the law by precept and example. I was shown that the third angel proclaiming the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and the FAITH OF JESUS, represents the people who receive this message and raise the voice of warning to the world, to keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and HIS LAW as the apple of the eye, and that in response to this warning many would embrace the SABBATH of the LORD.” {LS80 236.3 1880}

The passing of the time in 1844 was a period of great events, opening to our astonished eyes the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY transpiring in heaven, and having decided relation to GOD’S people upon the earth, [also] the first and second angels’ messages and the third, unfurling the banner on which was inscribed, “The COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and the FAITH OF JESUS.” One of the landmarks under this message was the TEMPLE OF GOD, seen by His truth-loving people in heaven, and the ARK containing the LAW OF GOD. The light of the SABBATH of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT flashed its strong rays in the pathway of the transgressors of GOD’S LAW. The non-immortality of the wicked is an old landmark. I can call to mind nothing more that can come under the head of the old landmarks. All this cry about changing the old landmarks is all imaginary. {Ms13-1889}

We feel deeply over the present state of the church whose members have long possessed a knowledge of those events which are to transpire near the close of time in fulfillment of prophetic history. CHRIST is coming in power and great glory, and the dead are to be “judged out of those things which are written in the books, according to their works.” The One who has stood as our INTERCESSOR; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling his head, is soon to cease his work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Grace and mercy will then descend from the THRONE, and justice will take their place. He for whom his people have looked will assume his right,–the office of Supreme Judge. “The FATHER . . . hath committed all judgment unto the SON. . . . And he hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the SON OF MAN.” It was he, says Peter, who was ordained to “judge the quick [the living] and the dead.” “He hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained.” {RH, January 1, 1889 par. 1}

If CHRIST can plead for us in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, if our works are wrought in him, if we have brought his grace and truth into our character-building, we shall be recognized by the LORD as the subjects of his kingdom. If we are the children of GOD, we shall love one another as CHRIST has loved us. This cold sternness that makes us unapproachable is not of CHRIST, but of Satan. JESUS said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Those who open the door of the heart that JESUS may come in, will be filled with love and gratitude. They will not desire to shut up the light GOD has given them. They will gather up the rays of divine glory, and flash them athwart the pathway of others. {RH, May 28, 1889 par. 9}

How can we presume to try to help others, unless we have obtained help ourselves? JESUS has said, “Except ye eat the flesh of the SON OF MAN, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. . . . For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. . . . It is the SPIRIT that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” We must be one with him. We must love those for whom he gave his life. “If any man have not the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, he is none of his.” All heaven is interested for our salvation. Will we be interested for our own salvation? Let us cast away every doubt, everything that would shroud our souls in darkness. We know that the world is filled with iniquity, but shall we think and talk of that only? Shall we look here and there for defects and evils? Shall we look critically at the characters of our brethren? O let us think of the goodness of GOD! Let us tell of his power, sing of his love. Let us commit our souls unto GOD as unto a faithful CREATOR, and stop worrying and fretting. GOD will help us to live above the things of this life, and give us an abundance of good things to think about and to talk about. Let us come into the presence of CHRIST. He is CLEANSING the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Let us enter there by faith. Provision has been made for our CLEANSING. A fountain has been opened for sin and uncleanness. Ask in faith for the GRACE OF GOD, and you will not ask in vain. {RH, May 28, 1889 par. 11}

From the light which GOD has given me, I know that the LORD would do far more for us as a people if we would walk in humility before him. Every one of GOD’S people will be tested and proved, and we want you to be in a position where you will bear the proving of GOD, and not be found wanting when your moral worth is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. We want you to be constantly moving onward and upward; but that which hinders your progress in a large degree is your self-esteem, the high opinion that you entertain of your own ability. If there was ever a place where self needed to die, it is here. Let us see the death struggle. Let us hear the dying groans. Self-exaltation ever separates the soul from GOD, no matter in whom it is found, whether in those in responsible positions or in those who are in some less important place. Whatever has been done to attract the attention to self, has detracted from the glory that should have been rendered to GOD, and has brought leanness to your souls. It is through this avenue of self-esteem and self-sufficiency that Satan will seek to ensnare the people of GOD. {RH, June 18, 1889 par. 2}

The tithe was to be exclusively devoted to the use of the Levites, the tribe that had been set apart for the service of the SANCTUARY. But this was by no means the limit of the contributions for religious purposes. The TABERNACLE, as afterward the temple, was erected wholly by free-will offerings; and to provide for necessary repairs, and other expenses, Moses directed that as often as the people were numbered, each should contribute a half shekel for “the service of the TABERNACLE.” In the time of Nehemiah a contribution was brought yearly for this purpose. From time to time, sin-offerings and thank-offerings were brought to GOD. These were presented in great numbers at the annual feasts. And the most liberal provision was made for the poor. {RH, September 10, 1889 par. 6}

Even before the tithe could be reserved, there had been an acknowledgment of the claims of GOD. The first that ripened of every product of the land, was consecrated to him. The first of the wool when the sheep were shorn, of the grain when the wheat was threshed, the first of the oil and the wine, was set apart for GOD. So also were the first-born of all animals; and a redemption price was paid for the first-born SON. The first-fruits were to be presented before the LORD at the SANCTUARY, and were then devoted to the use of the priests. {RH, September 10, 1889 par. 7}

To promote the assembling of the people for religious service, as well as to provide for the poor, a second tithe of all the increase was required. Concerning the first tithe, the LORD had declared, “I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel.” But in regard to the second he commanded, “Thou shalt eat before the LORD thy GOD, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy GOD always.” This tithe, or its equivalent in money, they were for two years to bring to the place where the SANCTUARY was established. After presenting a thank-offering to GOD, and a specified portion to the priest, the offerers were to use the remainder for a religious feast, in which the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow should participate. Thus provision was made for the thank-offerings and feasts at the yearly festivals, and the people were drawn to the society of the priests and Levites that they might receive instruction and encouragement in the SERVICE OF GOD. Every third year, however, this second tithe was to be used at home, in entertaining the Levite and the poor, as Moses said, “That they may eat within thy gates, and be filled.” This tithe would provide a fund for the uses of charity and hospitality. {RH, September 17, 1889 par. 1}

Christians that carry a gloomy countenance are misrepresenting their LORD. They represent the Christian life as one of toil and hardship. They go mourning and groaning as if it were uphill work. Is the gate of Heaven shut? Have they no FATHER in Heaven? You might think from their attitude that JESUS was in Joseph’s new tomb, and a great stone rolled against the door. But JESUS is risen. He has ascended on high, and has led captivity captive, and has given gifts unto men. He has made manifest what he will do. He will break the fetters of the tomb, and bring forth his people from the land of their captivity. We dwell too near to the lowlands of earth. Let us raise our eyes to the open doors of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where the light of the GLORY OF GOD shines in the face of JESUS CHRIST, who “is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by him.” Why not talk of the PLAN OF SALVATION? Why not dig in the mines of truth for the treasures of wisdom, that you may appreciate the promises of GOD? Why not dwell in the love of CHRIST, and talk of the PLAN OF REDEMPTION? We should study how to overcome appetite, ambition, and the love of the world. Is there not enough for us to do that we have to give so much time to matters of small importance? {ST, April 15, 1889 par. 11}

John writes concerning scenes that have to do with our own time. He says, “The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in Heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” That ARK contains the tables whereon is engraven the LAW OF GOD. On the Isle of Patmos, John beheld in prophetic vision the people of GOD, and saw that at this time the attention of the loyal and true followers of CHRIST would be attracted to the open door of the MOST HOLY PLACE in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He saw that by faith they would follow JESUS within the VEIL where he ministers above the ARK OF GOD containing his immutable law. The prophet described the faithful ones, saying, “Here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and the FAITH OF JESUS.” This is the class that excite the wrath of the dragon because they obey GOD, and are loyal to HIS COMMANDMENTS. {ST, April 22, 1889 par. 9}

You have a work to do for your own soul. Make haste, or it will be forever too late. GOD will now forgive the scarlet sin if you will do those things you ought to do to make your wrongs right. I do not say your case is hopeless, but you have certainly almost sinned away your day of grace, and yet JESUS is in the SANCTUARY. JESUS pleads in your behalf. Your brethren and your sisters have labored much for you; so much interest have they manifested for you that you have regarded crime and sins as a light matter. But JESUS loves you and I present, or lift up, JESUS before you. {Lt1e-1890}

No moral wrong”—this has been the excuse made by everyone who has been reproved for similar conduct. What is moral wrong? Have your SPIRITUAL senses become so blinded that you cannot discern the truth? Do you not know that grapevines will not bear thorns, nor a bramblebush grapes? If the truth was brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, it would create a pure moral taste. Then all these objectionable, demoralizing practices will be seen to be a positive denial of CHRIST, a sin which will pollute the soul. {Lt6a-1890}

O, how many who claim to be the children of GOD are simply making a profession instead of doing the words of CHRIST. They do not carry out the principles of truth, but follow their own unsanctified way, not the ways of the LORD. Many claim to believe, but the truth is kept in the outer courts and is not brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. Therefore, it does not sanctify the thoughts, the words, and the notions of those who profess to be the followers of CHRIST. A profession of the Christian religion, without a manifestation of its [practical] workings, is a stumbling block both to the brethren and to those desiring to be the followers of CHRIST. {Lt8a-1890}

On the mount, CHRIST clearly defined the principles of the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD; and he who knows the truth as it is in the law, knows the truth as it is in JESUS; for the righteousness of the law is the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST. This righteousness we may claim by faith; and through faith in CHRIST man works out his own salvation with fear and trembling. “For it is GOD which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” The sinner will then “put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;” he will “be renewed in the spirit of his mind,” and “put on the new man, which after GOD is created in righteousness and true holiness.” The truth as an abiding principle will be brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, and this is the truth as it is in JESUS. No man [is capable] of leading the sheep and lambs of GOD’S flock without this genuine experience. {Lt8a-1890}

There are coarse and even sensual minds among physicians. GOD forbid that this should be the character of one who claims to believe sacred truth. The SPIRIT OF GOD will shield us from all evil, and will give us an appreciation of the reality and importance of SPIRITUAL things. The solemn truths which we profess will sanctify the soul if we bring them into the INNER SANCTUARY of the heart. O that every physician would be what GOD would have him—pure, holy, undefiled, barricaded by the grace of CHRIST, knowing that CHRIST is his personal SAVIOUR. {Lt13-1890} {Ms17-1890}

What is the object of the ministry? Is it to mix the comical with the religious? The theater is the place for such exhibitions. If CHRIST is formed within, if the truth with its sanctifying power is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, you will not have jolly men, neither will you have sour, cross, crabbed men to teach the precious lessons of CHRIST to perishing souls. {Lt15-1890}

The fact that one is never detected in deception or fraud does not make him less guilty in the sight of GOD. That which GOD testifies of us, when character is weighed in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY is to stand fast forever unless the sad decision, “wanting” is changed because of soul-repentance and transformation of character. Then pardon is written, and the promise is fulfilled, “a new heart will I give you.” {Lt22-1890}

Remember that all your words, all your ways, all your deeds, are open to the true witness. He says, “I know thy works.” The deeds of each day have been passing, one after another into the book of records. What will you read there? Your words, your works, your character, are being weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. Angels of GOD are watching for the development of character and weighing moral worth. Profession and pretense count nothing with GOD. {Lt23-1890}

Evil angels ply the soul with one set of temptations after another, to compass our ruin. They suggest evil thoughts, excite worldly desires [and] carnal lusts, that the heart may be estranged from GOD and no longer respond to the influence of the HOLY SPIRIT, that the word may be spoken in Heaven, “He is joined to his idols: let him alone.” Your heart is becoming less and less susceptible to the influence of truth, for the truth is not brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. {Lt23-1890}

These servants have no excuse for their careless work. GOD will not excuse them. The way is plainly marked out for them in the directions given to Moses for those who were connected with the service of the SANCTUARY. Any neglect on the part of those ancient priests was punishable with death. Is this no lesson for us? Has GOD changed? Is he not just as particular now as he was then? These things were written for our admonition and instruction, upon whom the ends of the world are come, that we may not offend GOD by our untidiness or our unfaithful work. {Lt24-1890}

We have need to be alarmed because selfishness and covetousness are becoming a ruling power among us, and the LORD is displeased. The consciences of many are like India rubber. Men can be bought and sold by the highest bidder. When such men are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, they are found wanting, for conscientiousness, honor, integrity, and fidelity are lacking. The sin of bribery is becoming so common that the moral senses of many are perverted by this unholy practice. The time of testing is upon us, and many hold the truth in unrighteousness. They do not place themselves where they can best glorify GOD, but best please and glorify themselves. When it serves their purpose they are the most zealous ADVOCATEs of the truth; but when the test of trial comes upon them, they shrink under the measuring line of GOD. {Lt41-1890}

Many have deceived the world, betrayed the cause of CHRIST, and put the LORD of glory to an open shame by misrepresenting His character. These lie against the truth. They countenance and practice principles that in no way correspond with the truth of GOD. Many are willing to benefit themselves at another’s disadvantage, and this proves that the truth has not been brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, and that GOD’S LAW is a dead letter to them. The commandment is, “Thou shalt love the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart… and thy neighbor as thyself.” They have failed to learn the lesson of the pure SON OF GOD. The TRUE WITNESS says, “I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” {Lt41-1890}

Those who are laborers together with GOD must work with pen and voice to meet the wrong tendencies, to correct the errors, that have been coming in among us. The truth must no longer be kept in the outer court, but be brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. The religion of CHRIST requires not alone the putting away of pride, malice, covetousness, injustice, [but putting on] kindness, love, generosity. It will be constantly aspiring, pressing on from grace to grace, from faith to greater faith, from glory to greater glory. {Ms16-1890}

But the standard of the ministry has been greatly lowered, and the Minister of the true SANCTUARY is misrepresented before the world. GOD is ready to accept men as His co-laborers, and to make them the light of the world, agents through whom He can graciously infuse light into the understanding. If the men who bear the message have not CHRIST abiding in them; if they are not true—and some are not—may the LORD awaken them from their deception before it shall be too late. GOD wants men to be tender-hearted, compassionate, and to love as brethren. JESUS is waiting for them to open the door, that He may come in and infuse into their hearts the warmth of His love, His goodness, His tender compassion, that the worker may in all his connection with humanity reveal the SAVIOUR to the world. {Ms19-1890}

Those who have a hold of the truth theoretically, with their fingertips as it were, who have not brought its principles into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, but have kept the vital truth in the outer court, will see nothing sacred in the past history of this people which has made them what they are, and has established them as earnest, determined missionary workers in the world. The truth for this time is precious, but those whose hearts have not been broken by falling on the ROCK, CHRIST JESUS, will not see and understand what is truth. They will accept that which pleases their ideas and will begin to manufacture another foundation than that which is laid. They will flatter their own vanity and esteem, thinking that they are capable of removing the pillars of our faith and replacing them with pillars they have devised. {Ms28-1890}

The religion of JESUS is endangered. It is being mingled with worldliness. Worldly policy is taking the place of the true piety and wisdom that comes from above, and GOD will remove His prospering hand from the conference. Shall the ARK OF THE COVENANT be removed from this people? Shall idols be smuggled in? Shall false principles and false precepts be brought into the SANCTUARY? Shall antichrist be respected? Shall the true doctrines and principles given us by GOD, which have made us what we are, be ignored? Shall GOD’S instrumentality, the publishing house, become a mere political, worldly institution? This is directly where the enemy, through blinded, unconsecrated men, is leading us. {Ms29-1890}

Whoever the conference may connect with the offices of publication, unless they look to GOD daily and are firmly decided that ETERNAL vigilance is the only price of safety, unless they seek counsel from GOD in the small or large matters connected with His sacred work, they will swerve from safe paths. Unless they are converted men, who realize the sacredness of the work for these last days, they will imperil the cause. It is not enough for them to assent to the truth. The question is, Are they sanctified through the truth? Is the truth brought into the inmost SANCTUARY of the soul? {Ms29-1890}

For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in Mount Zion.” Isaiah 8:11-18. {Ms40-1890}

We are not amenable to man, but to GOD. The LORD’S mercies, if unappropriated to be a blessing to others, are withdrawn from the one to whom He has given great light, for His goodness is unappreciated, His name is not magnified unless the light and knowledge of the truth that has shined upon us is imparted to all we can possibly reach, enlightening other minds who have not the knowledge of the truth. And when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, many, many, when weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY, will be pronounced wanting. They were the depositary of sacred gifts and responsible for hiding the light and knowledge given, that it never reached the ones whom GOD designed should receive it through those agents. {Ms41-1890}

When you bring the truth as it is in JESUS into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, then CHRIST is abiding in you. “Without me ye can do nothing,” He says. Make an entire surrender to GOD. Your will, your preference, must be submerged in GOD’S WILL and held there firmly day by day, hour by hour. Then you will triumph in the GOD of your salvation. {Ms42-1890}

Satan is constantly alluring away from faithfulness and thoroughness in the essential works of preparedness for the great event which will try every man’s soul. The work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY is going forward. JESUS is CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY. The work on earth corresponds with the work in heaven. The heavenly angels are at work constantly to draw man, the living agent, to look to JESUS to contemplate and meditate upon JESUS that he may, in viewing the perfection of CHRIST, be impressed with the imperfections of his own character. The COMFORTER CHRIST promised to send, He declared, “shall testify of Me.” This is the burden of the message for this time. Go lift up JESUS as the world’s only hope. Stop your controversies, cease your debating, which tends to create prejudice and opposition and leads to immature decisions, that fasten souls against CHRIST when they might have been gathered with CHRIST. {Ms48-1890}

The FATHER wrought by His SON in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, . . . whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him.” Colossians 1:16. Angels are GOD’S ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the SON, the anointed of GOD, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all. Hebrews 1:3. “A glorious high THRONE from the beginning,” was the place of His SANCTUARY (Jeremiah 17:12); “a scepter of righteousness,” the scepter of His kingdom. Hebrews 1:8. “Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His SANCTUARY.” Psalm 96:6. Mercy and truth go before His face. Psalm 89:14. {PP 34.2 1890} {Lt256-1906}

At the numbering of Israel, just before their entrance to Canaan, Simeon was the smallest tribe. Moses, in his last blessing, made no reference to Simeon. In the settlement of Canaan this tribe had only a small portion of Judah’s lot, and such families as afterward became powerful formed different colonies and settled in territory outside the borders of the Holy Land. Levi also received no inheritance except forty-eight cities scattered in different parts of the land. In the case of this tribe, however, their fidelity to JEHOVAH when the other tribes apostatized, secured their appointment to the sacred service of the SANCTUARY, and thus the curse was changed into a blessing. {PP 235.6 1890}

Furthermore, the first-born of both man and beast were to be the LORD’S, to be bought back only by a ransom, in acknowledgment that when the first-born in Egypt perished, that of Israel, though graciously preserved, had been justly exposed to the same doom but for the atoning sacrifice. “All the first-born are Mine,” the LORD declared; “for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt, I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine they shall be,” Numbers 3:13. After the institution of the TABERNACLE service the LORD chose unto Himself the tribe of Levi for the work of the SANCTUARY, instead of the first-born of the people. “They are wholly given unto Me from among the children of Israel,” He said. “Instead of the first-born of all the children of Israel, have I taken them unto Me.” Numbers 8:16. All the people were, however, still required, in acknowledgment of GOD’S mercy, to pay a redemption price for the first-born SON. Numbers 18:15, 16. {PP 274.4 1890}

During his stay in the mount, Moses received directions for the building of a SANCTUARY in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. “Let them make Me a SANCTUARY; that I may dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8), was the command of GOD. For the third time the observance of the SABBATH was enjoined. “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever,” the LORD declared, “that ye may know that I am JEHOVAH that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the SABBATH therefore; for it is holy unto you. . . . Whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” Exodus 31:17, 13, 14. Directions had just been given for the immediate erection of the TABERNACLE for the SERVICE OF GOD; and now the people might conclude, because the object had in view was the GLORY OF GOD, and also because of their great need of a place of worship, that they would be justified in working at the building upon the SABBATH. To guard them from this error, the warning was given. Even the sacredness and urgency of that special work for GOD must not lead them to infringe upon His holy rest day. {PP 313.3 1890}

Henceforth the people were to be honored with the abiding presence of their King. “I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their GOD,” “and the TABERNACLE shall be sanctified by My glory” (Exodus 29:45, 43), was the assurance given to Moses. As the symbol of GOD’S authority and the embodiment of His will, there was delivered to Moses a copy of the DECALOGUE engraved by the FINGER OF GOD Himself upon two TABLES OF STONE (Deuteronomy 9:10; Exodus 32:15, 16), to be sacredly enshrined in the SANCTUARY, which, when made, was to be the visible center of the nation’s worship. {PP 314.1 1890}

Chap. 30 – The TABERNACLE and Its Services

The command was communicated to Moses while in the mount with GOD, “Let them make Me a SANCTUARY; that I may dwell among them;” and full directions were given for the construction of the TABERNACLE. By their apostasy the Israelites forfeited the blessing of the divine Presence, and for the time rendered impossible the erection of a SANCTUARY for GOD among them. But after they were again taken into favor with Heaven, the great leader proceeded to execute the divine command. {PP 343.1 1890}

Chosen men were especially endowed by GOD with skill and wisdom for the construction of the sacred building. GOD Himself gave to Moses the plan of that structure, with particular directions as to its size and form, the materials to be employed, and every article of FURNITURE which it was to contain. The HOLY PLACES made with hands were to be “figures of the true,” “patterns of things in the heavens” (Hebrews 9:24, 23)–a miniature representation of the HEAVENLY TEMPLE where CHRIST, our great HIGH PRIEST, after offering His life as a sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf. GOD presented before Moses in the mount a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him. All these directions were carefully recorded by Moses, who communicated them to the leaders of the people. {PP 343.2 1890}

For the building of the SANCTUARY great and expensive preparations were necessary; a large amount of the most precious and costly material was required; yet the LORD accepted only freewill offerings. “Of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering” was the divine command repeated by Moses to the congregation. Devotion to GOD and a spirit of sacrifice were the first requisites in preparing a dwelling place for the MOST HIGH. {PP 343.3 1890}

All the people responded with one accord. “They came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD’S offering to the work of the TABERNACLE of the congregation, and for all His service, and for the HOLY GARMENTS. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willinghearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered, offered an offering of gold unto the LORD.” {PP 344.1 1890}

While the building of the SANCTUARY was in progress the people, old and young–men, women, and children–continued to bring their offerings, until those in charge of the work found that they had enough, and even more than could be used. And Moses caused to be proclaimed throughout the camp, “Let neither man nor woman make any more work for the offering of the SANCTUARY. So the people were restrained from bringing.” The murmurings of the Israelites and the visitations of GOD’S judgments because of their sins are recorded as a warning to after-generations. And their devotion, their zeal and liberality, are an example worthy of imitation. All who love the WORSHIP OF GOD and prize the blessing of His sacred presence will manifest the same spirit of sacrifice in preparing a house where He may meet with them. They will desire to bring to the LORD an offering of the very best that they possess. A house built for GOD should not be left in debt, for He is thereby dishonored. An amount sufficient to accomplish the work should be freely given, that the workmen may be able to say, as did the builders of the TABERNACLE, “Bring no more offerings.” {PP 344.5 1890}

The building was divided into TWO APARTMENTS by a rich and beautiful CURTAIN, or VEIL, suspended from gold-plated pillars; and a similar VEIL closed the entrance of the FIRST APARTMENT. These, like the inner covering, which formed the ceiling, were of the most gorgeous colors, blue, purple, and scarlet, beautifully arranged, while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were CHERUBIM to represent the angelic host who are connected with the work of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and who are ministering spirits to the people of GOD on earth. {PP 347.2 1890}

The sacred tent was enclosed in an open space called the court, which was surrounded by hangings, or screens, of fine linen, suspended from pillars of brass. The entrance to this enclosure was at the eastern end. It was closed by CURTAINS of costly material and beautiful workmanship, though inferior to those of the SANCTUARY. The hangings of the court being only about half as high as the walls of the TABERNACLE, the building could be plainly seen by the people without. In the court, and nearest the entrance, stood the BRAZEN ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING. Upon this ALTAR were consumed all the sacrifices made by fire unto the LORD, and its horns were sprinkled with the atoning blood. Between the ALTAR and the door of the TABERNACLE was the LAVER, which was also of brass, made from the mirrors that had been the freewill offering of the women of Israel. At the LAVER the priests were to wash their hands and their feet whenever they went into the SACRED APARTMENTS, or approached the ALTAR to offer a burnt offering unto the LORD. {PP 347.3 1890}

In the FIRST APARTMENT, or HOLY PLACE, were the TABLE OF SHEWBREAD, the CANDLESTICK, or LAMPSTAND, and the ALTAR OF INCENSE. The TABLE OF SHEWBREAD stood on the north. With its ornamental crown, it was overlaid with pure gold. On this table the priests were each SABBATH to place twelve cakes, arranged in two piles, and sprinkled with Frankincense. The loaves that were removed, being accounted holy, were to be eaten by the priests. On the south was the SEVEN-BRANCHED CANDLESTICK, with its SEVEN LAMPS. Its branches were ornamented with exquisitely wrought flowers, resembling lilies, and the whole was made from one solid piece of gold. There being no windows in the TABERNACLE, the lamps were never all extinguished at one time, but shed their light by day and by night. Just before the VEIL separating the HOLY PLACE from the MOST HOLY and the immediate presence of GOD, stood the GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE. Upon this ALTAR the priest was to burn INCENSE every morning and evening; its horns were touched with the blood of the sin offering, and it was sprinkled with blood upon the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. The fire upon this ALTAR was kindled by GOD Himself and was sacredly cherished. Day and night the HOLY INCENSE diffused its fragrance throughout the SACRED APARTMENTS, and without, far around the TABERNACLE. {PP 348.1 1890}

Beyond the INNER VEIL was the HOLY OF HOLIES, where centered the symbolic service of ATONEMENT and intercession, and which formed the connecting link between heaven and earth. In this APARTMENT was the ARK, a chest of acacia wood, overlaid within and without with gold, and having a crown of gold about the top. It was made as a depository for the TABLES OF STONE, upon which GOD Himself had inscribed the TEN COMMANDMENTS. Hence it was called the ARK OF GOD’S testament, or the ARK OF THE COVENANT, since the TEN COMMANDMENTS were the basis of the covenant made between GOD and Israel. {PP 348.2 1890}

Above the MERCY SEAT was the SHEKINAH, the manifestation of the divine Presence; and from between the CHERUBIM, GOD made known His will. Divine messages were sometimes communicated to the high priest by a voice from the cloud. Sometimes a light fell upon the angel at the right, to signify approval or acceptance, or a shadow or cloud rested upon the one at the left to reveal disapproval or rejection. {PP 349.1 1890}

The LAW OF GOD, enshrined within the ARK, was the great rule of righteousness and judgment. That law pronounced death upon the transgressor; but above the law was the MERCY SEAT, upon which the presence of GOD was revealed, and from which, by virtue of the ATONEMENT, pardon was granted to the repentant sinner. Thus in the work of CHRIST for our redemption, symbolized by the SANCTUARY service, “mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10. {PP 349.2 1890}

No language can describe the glory of the scene presented within the SANCTUARY–the gold-plated walls reflecting the light from the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK, the brilliant hues of the richly embroidered CURTAINS with their shining angels, the table, and the ALTAR OF INCENSE, glittering with gold; beyond the SECOND VEIL the SACRED ARK, with its mystic CHERUBIM, and above it the HOLY SHEKINAH, the visible manifestation of JEHOVAH’S presence; all but a dim reflection of the glories of the TEMPLE OF GOD in heaven, the great center of the work for man’s redemption. {PP 349.3 1890}

A period of about half a year was occupied in the building of the TABERNACLE. When it was completed, Moses examined all the work of the builders, comparing it with the pattern shown him in the mount and the directions he had received from GOD. “As the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.” With eager interest the multitudes of Israel crowded around to look upon the sacred structure. While they were contemplating the scene with reverent satisfaction, the pillar of cloud floated over the SANCTUARY and, descending, enveloped it. “And the glory of the LORD filled the TABERNACLE.” There was a revealing of the divine majesty, and for a time even Moses could not enter. With deep emotion the people beheld the token that the work of their hands was accepted. There were no loud demonstrations of rejoicing. A solemn awe rested upon all. But the gladness of their hearts welled up in tears of joy, and they murmured low, earnest words of gratitude that GOD had condescended to abide with them. {PP 349.4 1890}

By divine direction the tribe of Levi was set apart for the service of the SANCTUARY. In the earliest times every man was the priest of his own household. In the days of Abraham the priesthood was regarded as the birthright of the eldest SON. Now, instead of the first-born of all Israel, the LORD accepted the tribe of Levi for the work of the SANCTUARY. By this signal honor He manifested His approval of their fidelity, both in adhering to His service and in executing His judgments when Israel apostatized in the worship of the golden calf. The priesthood, however, was restricted to the family of Aaron. Aaron and his sons alone were permitted to minister before the LORD; the rest of the tribe were entrusted with the charge of the TABERNACLE and its FURNITURE, and they were to attend upon the priests in their ministration, but they were not to sacrifice, to burn INCENSE, or to see the HOLY things till they were covered. {PP 350.1 1890}

In accordance with their office, a special dress was appointed for the priests. “Thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, for glory and for beauty,” was the divine direction to Moses. The robe of the common priest was of white linen, and woven in one piece. It extended nearly to the feet and was confined about the waist by a white linen girdle embroidered in blue, purple, and red. A linen turban, or miter, completed his outer costume. Moses at the burning bush was directed to put off his sandals, for the ground whereon he stood was holy. So the priests were not to enter the SANCTUARY with shoes upon their feet. Particles of dust cleaving to them would desecrate the HOLY PLACE. They were to leave their shoes in the court before entering the SANCTUARY, and also to wash both their hands and their feet before ministering in the TABERNACLE or at the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING. Thus was constantly taught the lesson that all defilement must be put away from those who would approach into the presence of GOD. {PP 350.2 1890}

The garments of the high priest were of costly material and beautiful workmanship, befitting his exalted station. In addition to the linen dress of the common priest, he wore a robe of blue, also woven in one piece. Around the skirt it was ornamented with golden bells, and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet. Outside of this was the ephod, a shorter garment of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and white. It was confined by a girdle of the same colors, beautifully wrought. The ephod was sleeveless, and on its gold-embroidered shoulder pieces were set two onyx stones, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. {PP 350.3 1890}

Over the ephod was the BRESTPLATE, the most sacred of the priestly vestments. This was of the same material as the ephod. It was in the form of a square, measuring a span, and was suspended from the shoulders by a cord of blue from golden rings. The border was formed of a variety of precious stones, the same that form the twelve foundations of the City of GOD. Within the border were twelve stones set in gold, arranged in rows of four, and, like those in the shoulder pieces, engraved with the names of the tribes. The LORD’S direction was, “Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the BRESTPLATE of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the HOLY PLACE, for a memorial before the LORD continually.” Exodus 28:29. So CHRIST, the great HIGH PRIEST, pleading His blood before the FATHER in the sinner’s behalf, bears upon His heart the name of every repentant, believing soul. Says the psalmist, “I am poor and needy; yet the LORD thinketh upon me.” Psalm 40:17. {PP 351.1 1890}

At the right and left of the BRESTPLATE were two large stones of great brilliancy. These were known as the Urim and Thummim. By them the will of GOD was made known through the high priest. When questions were brought for decision before the LORD, a halo of light encircling the precious stone at the right was a token of the divine consent or approval, while a cloud shadowing the stone at the left was an evidence of denial or disapprobation. {PP 351.2 1890}

The miter of the high priest consisted of the white linen turban, having attached to it by a lace of blue, a gold plate bearing the inscription, “HOLINESS TO JEHOVAH.” Everything connected with the apparel and deportment of the priests was to be such as to impress the beholder with a sense of the HOLINESS OF GOD, the sacredness of His worship, and the purity required of those who came into His presence. {PP 351.3 1890}

Not only the SANCTUARY itself, but the ministration of the priests, was to “serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” Hebrews 8:5. Thus it was of great importance; and the LORD, through Moses, gave the most definite and explicit instruction concerning every point of this typical service. The ministration of the SANCTUARY consisted of two divisions, a daily and a yearly service. The daily service was performed at the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING in the court of the TABERNACLE and in the HOLY PLACE; while the yearly service was in the MOST HOLY. {PP 351.4 1890}

The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering, the offering of sweet INCENSE on the GOLDEN ALTAR, and the special offerings for individual sins. And there were also offerings for SABBATHS, new moons, and special feasts. {PP 352.2 1890}

Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the ALTAR, with its appropriate meat offering, thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to JEHOVAH, and their constant dependence upon the ATONING BLOOD OF CHRIST. GOD expressly directed that every offering presented for the service of the SANCTUARY should be “without blemish.” Exodus 12:5. The priests were to examine all animals brought as a sacrifice, and were to reject every one in which a defect was discovered. Only an offering “without blemish” could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as “a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19. The apostle Paul points to these sacrifices as an illustration of what the followers of CHRIST are to become. He says, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of GOD, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto GOD, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1. We are to give ourselves to the SERVICE OF GOD, and we should seek to make the offering as nearly perfect as possible. GOD will not be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer. Those who love Him with all the heart, will desire to give Him the best service of the life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will. {PP 352.3 1890}

In the offering of INCENSE the priest was brought more directly into the presence of GOD than in any other act of the daily ministration. As the INNER VEIL of the SANCTUARY did not extend to the top of the building, the GLORY OF GOD, which was manifested above the MERCY SEAT, was partially visible from the FIRST APARTMENT. When the priest offered INCENSE before the LORD, he looked toward the ARK; and as the cloud of INCENSE arose, the divine glory descended upon the MERCY SEAT and filled the MOST HOLY PLACE, and often so filled BOTH APARTMENTS that the priest was obliged to retire to the door of the TABERNACLE. As in that typical service the priest looked by faith to the MERCY SEAT which he could not see, so the people of GOD are now to direct their prayers to CHRIST, their great HIGH PRIEST, who, unseen by human vision, is pleading in their behalf in the SANCTUARY above. {PP 353.1 1890}

The INCENSE, ascending with the prayers of Israel, represents the merits and intercession of CHRIST, His perfect righteousness, which through faith is imputed to His people, and which can alone make the worship of sinful beings acceptable to GOD. Before the VEIL of the MOST HOLY PLACE was an ALTAR of perpetual intercession, before the HOLY, an ALTAR of continual ATONEMENT. By blood and by INCENSE GOD was to be approached–symbols pointing to the great MEDIATOR, through whom sinners may approach JEHOVAH, and through whom alone mercy and salvation can be granted to the repentant, believing soul. {PP 353.2 1890}

As the priests morning and evening entered the HOLY PLACE at the time of INCENSE, the daily sacrifice was ready to be offered upon the ALTAR in the court without. This was a time of intense interest to the worshipers who assembled at the TABERNACLE. Before entering into the presence of GOD through the ministration of the priest, they were to engage in earnest searching of heart and confession of sin. They united in silent prayer, with their faces toward the HOLY PLACE. Thus their petitions ascended with the cloud of INCENSE, while faith laid hold upon the merits of the promised SAVIOUR prefigured by the atoning sacrifice. The hours appointed for the morning and the evening sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed as the set time for worship throughout the Jewish nation. And when in later times the Jews were scattered as captives in distant lands, they still at the appointed hour turned their faces toward Jerusalem and offered up their petitions to the GOD of Israel. In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. While GOD condemns a mere round of ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening to seek pardon for sins committed and to present their requests for needed blessings. {PP 353.3 1890}

The SHEWBREAD was kept ever before the LORD as a perpetual offering. Thus it was a part of the daily sacrifice. It was called SHEWBREAD, or “bread of the presence,” because it was ever before the face of the LORD. It was an acknowledgment of man’s dependence upon GOD for both temporal and SPIRITUAL food, and that it is received only through the MEDIATION of CHRIST. GOD had fed Israel in the wilderness with bread from heaven, and they were still dependent upon His bounty, both for temporal food and SPIRITUAL blessings. Both the MANNA and the SHEWBREAD pointed to CHRIST, the living Bread, who is ever in the presence of GOD for us. He Himself said, “I am the living Bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:48-51. Frankincense was placed upon the loaves. When the bread was removed every SABBATH, to be replaced by fresh loaves, the Frankincense was burned upon the ALTAR as a memorial before GOD. {PP 354.1 1890}

The most important part of the daily ministration was the service performed in behalf of individuals. The repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the TABERNACLE, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. By his own hand the animal was then slain, and the blood was carried by the priest into the HOLY PLACE and sprinkled before the VEIL, behind which was the ARK containing the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the SANCTUARY. In some cases the blood was not taken into the HOLY PLACE; but the flesh was then to be eaten by the priest, as Moses directed the sons of Aaron, saying, “GOD hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation.”

As has been stated, the earthly SANCTUARY was built by Moses according to the pattern shown him in the mount. It was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” its TWO HOLY PLACES were “patterns of things in the heavens;” CHRIST, our great HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2. As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the TEMPLE OF GOD in heaven, he beheld there “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE burning before the THRONE.” He saw an angel “having a GOLDEN CENSER; and there was given unto him much INCENSE, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the GOLDEN ALTAR which was before the THRONE.” Revelation 4:5; 8:3. Here the prophet was permitted to behold the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY in heaven; and he saw there the “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE” and the “GOLDEN ALTAR” represented by the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR OF INCENSE in the SANCTUARY on earth. Again, “the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened” (Revelation 11:19), and he looked within the INNER VEIL, upon the HOLY OF HOLIES. Here he beheld “the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT” (Revelation 11:19), represented by the SACRED CHEST constructed by Moses to contain the LAW OF GOD. {PP 356.1 1890}

Moses made the earthly SANCTUARY, “according to the fashion that he had seen.” Paul declares that “the TABERNACLE, and all the vessels of the ministry,” when completed, were “the patterns of things in the heavens.” Acts 7:44; Hebrews 9:21, 23. And John says that he saw the SANCTUARY in heaven. That SANCTUARY, in which JESUS ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the SANCTUARY built by Moses was a copy. {PP 357.1 1890}

The HEAVENLY TEMPLE, the abiding place of the KING OF KINGS, where “thousand thousands ministered unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him” (Daniel 7:10), that temple filled with the glory of the ETERNAL THRONE, where seraphim, its shining guardians, VEIL their faces in adoration–no earthly structure could represent its vastness and its glory. Yet important truths concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were to be taught by the earthly SANCTUARY and its services. {PP 357.2 1890}

After His ascension, our SAVIOUR was to begin His work as our HIGH PRIEST. Says Paul, “CHRIST is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us.” Hebrews 9:24. As CHRIST’S ministration was to consist of TWO GREAT DIVISIONS, each occupying a period of time and having a distinctive place in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, so the typical ministration consisted of TWO DIVISIONS, THE DAILY AND THE YEARLY SERVICE, and to each a department of the TABERNACLE was devoted. {PP 357.3 1890}

As CHRIST at His ascension appeared in the presence of GOD to plead His blood in behalf of penitent believers, so the priest in the daily ministration sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice in the HOLY PLACE in the sinner’s behalf. {PP 357.4 1890}

The BLOOD OF CHRIST, while it was to release the repentant sinner from the condemnation of the law, was not to cancel the sin; it would stand on record in the SANCTUARY until the FINAL ATONEMENT; so in the type the blood of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the SANCTUARY until the DAY OF ATONEMENT. {PP 357.5 1890}

In the great day of final award, the dead are to be “judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:12. Then by virtue of the ATONING BLOOD OF CHRIST, the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus the SANCTUARY will be freed, or CLEANSED, from the record of sin. In the type, this great work of ATONEMENT, or blotting out of sins, was represented by the services of the DAY OF ATONEMENT–the CLEANSING of the earthly SANCTUARY, which was accomplished by the removal, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, of the sins by which it had been polluted. {PP 357.6 1890}

As in the FINAL ATONEMENT the sins of the truly penitent are to be blotted from the records of heaven, no more to be remembered or come into mind, so in the type they were borne away into the wilderness, forever separated from the congregation. {PP 358.1 1890}

Since Satan is the originator of sin, the direct instigator of all the sins that caused the death of the SON OF GOD, justice demands that Satan shall suffer the final punishment. CHRIST’S work for the redemption of men and the purification of the universe from sin will be closed by the removal of sin from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the placing of these sins upon Satan, who will bear the final penalty. So in the typical service, the yearly round of ministration closed with the purification of the SANCTUARY, and the confessing of the sins on the head of the scapegoat. {PP 358.2 1890}

Thus in the ministration of the TABERNACLE, and of the temple that afterward took its place, the people were taught each day the great truths relative to CHRIST’S death and ministration, and once each year their minds were carried forward to the closing events of the great controversy between CHRIST and Satan, the final purification of the universe from sin and sinners. {PP 358.3 1890}

Nadab and Abihu would never have committed that fatal sin had they not first become partially intoxicated by the free use of wine. They understood that the most careful and solemn preparation was necessary before presenting themselves in the SANCTUARY, where the divine Presence was manifested; but by intemperance they were disqualified for their holy office. Their minds became confused and their moral perceptions dulled so that they could not discern the difference between the sacred and the common. To Aaron and his surviving sons was given the warning: “Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the TABERNACLE of the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations: and that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean; and that ye may teach the children of Israel all the statutes which the LORD hath spoken.” The use of spirituous liquors has the effect to weaken the body, confuse the mind, and debase the morals. It prevents men from realizing the sacredness of holy things or the binding force of GOD’S requirements. All who occupied positions of sacred responsibility were to be men of strict temperance, that their minds might be clear to discriminate between right and wrong, that they might possess firmness of principle, and wisdom to administer justice and to show mercy. {PP 361.3 1890}

The sacrificial system, committed to Adam, was also perverted by his descendants. Superstition, idolatry, cruelty, and licentiousness corrupted the simple and significant service that GOD had appointed. Through long intercourse with idolaters the people of Israel had mingled many heathen customs with their worship; therefore the LORD gave them at Sinai definite instruction concerning the sacrificial service. After the completion of the TABERNACLE He communicated with Moses from the cloud of glory above the MERCY SEAT, and gave him full directions concerning the system of offerings and the forms of worship to be maintained in the SANCTUARY. The ceremonial law was thus given to Moses, and by him written in a book. But the LAW OF TEN COMMANDMENTS spoken from Sinai had been written by GOD Himself on the TABLES OF STONE, and was sacredly preserved in the ARK. {PP 364.3 1890}

The ceremonial law was given by CHRIST. Even after it was no longer to be observed, Paul presented it before the Jews in its true position and value, showing its place in the PLAN OF REDEMPTION and its relation to the work of CHRIST; and the great apostle pronounces this LAW glorious, worthy of its DIVINE ORIGINATOR. The solemn service of the SANCTUARY typified the grand truths that were to be revealed through successive generations. The cloud of INCENSE ascending with the prayers of Israel represents His righteousness that alone can make the sinner’s prayer acceptable to GOD; the bleeding victim on the ALTAR OF SACRIFICE testified of a REDEEMER to come; and from the HOLY OF HOLIES the visible token of the divine Presence shone forth. Thus through age after age of darkness and apostasy faith was kept alive in the hearts of men until the time came for the advent of the promised MESSIAH. {PP 367.2 1890}

JESUS was the light of His people–the Light of the world–before He came to earth in the form of humanity. The first gleam of light that pierced the gloom in which sin had wrapped the world, came from CHRIST. And from Him has come every ray of heaven’s brightness that has fallen upon the inhabitants of the earth. In the PLAN OF REDEMPTION CHRIST is the ALPHA AND THE OMEGA–the FIRST AND THE LAST. {PP 367.3 1890}

Since the SAVIOUR shed His blood for the remission of sins, and ascended to heaven “to appear in the presence of GOD for us” (Hebrews 9:24), light has been streaming from the cross of Calvary and from the HOLY PLACES of the SANCTUARY above. But the clearer light granted us should not cause us to despise that which in earlier times was received through the types pointing to the coming SAVIOUR. The gospel of CHRIST sheds light upon the Jewish economy and gives significance to the ceremonial law. As new truths are revealed, and that which has been known from the beginning is brought into clearer light, the character and purposes of GOD are made manifest in His dealings with His chosen people. Every additional ray of light that we receive gives us a clearer understanding of the PLAN OF REDEMPTION, which is the working out of the divine will in the salvation of man. We see new beauty and force in the INSPIRED WORD, and we study its pages with a deeper and more absorbing interest. {PP 367.4 1890}

The government of Israel was characterized by the most thorough organization, wonderful alike for its completeness and its simplicity. The order so strikingly displayed in the perfection and arrangement of all GOD’S created works was manifest in the Hebrew economy. GOD was the center of authority and government, the sovereign of Israel. Moses stood as their visible leader, by GOD’S appointment, to administer the laws in His name. From the elders of the tribes a council of seventy was afterward chosen to assist Moses in the general affairs of the nation. Next came the priests, who consulted the LORD in the SANCTUARY. Chiefs, or princes, ruled over the tribes. Under these were “captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens,” and, lastly, officers who might be employed for special duties. Deuteronomy 1:15. {PP 374.2 1890}

Moses had not suspected this deep-laid plot, and when its terrible significance burst upon him, he fell upon his face in silent appeal to GOD. He arose sorrowful indeed, but calm and strong. Divine guidance had been granted him. “Even tomorrow,” he said, “the LORD will show who are His, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto Him: even him whom He hath chosen will He cause to come near unto Him.” The test was to be deferred until the morrow, that all might have time for reflection. Then those who aspired to the priesthood were to come each with a CENSER, and offer INCENSE at the TABERNACLE in the presence of the congregation. The law was very explicit that only those who had been ordained to the sacred office should minister in the SANCTUARY. And even the priests, Nadab and Abihu, had been destroyed for venturing to offer “strange fire,” in disregard of a divine command. Yet Moses challenged his accusers, if they dared enter upon so perilous an appeal, to refer the matter to GOD. {PP 398.3 1890}

The Gibeonites were permitted to live, but were attached as bondmen to the SANCTUARY, to perform all menial services. “Joshua made them that day hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation, and for the ALTAR of the LORD.” These conditions they gratefully accepted, conscious that they had been at fault, and glad to purchase life on any terms. “Behold, we are in thine hand,” they said to Joshua; “as it seemeth good and right unto thee to do unto us, do.” For centuries their descendants were connected with the service of the SANCTUARY. {PP 506.2 1890}

To Joshua, with Eleazar the high priest, and the heads of the tribes, the distribution of the land was committed, the location of each tribe being determined by lot. Moses himself had fixed the bounds of the country as it was to be divided among the tribes when they should come in possession of Canaan, and had appointed a prince from each tribe to attend to the distribution. The tribe of Levi, being devoted to the SANCTUARY service, was not counted in this allotment; but forty-eight cities in different parts of the country were assigned the Levites as their inheritance. {PP 511.3 1890}

The ARK remained at Shiloh for three hundred years, until, because of the sins of Eli’s house, it fell into the hands of the Philistines, and Shiloh was ruined. The ARK was never returned to the TABERNACLE here, the SANCTUARY service was finally transferred to the temple at Jerusalem, and Shiloh fell into insignificance. There are only ruins to mark the spot where it once stood. Long afterward its fate was made use of as a warning to Jerusalem. “Go ye now unto My place which was in Shiloh,” the LORD declared by the prophet Jeremiah, “where I set My name at the first, and see what I did to it for the wickedness of My people Israel. . . . Therefore will I do unto this house, which is called by My name, wherein ye trust, and unto the place which I gave to you and to your fathers, as I have done to Shiloh.” Jeremiah 7:12-14. {PP 514.4 1890}

They were now to dwell at a distance from the SANCTUARY of the LORD, and it was with an anxious heart that Joshua witnessed their departure, knowing how strong would be the temptations, in their isolated and wandering life, to fall into the customs of the heathen tribes that dwelt upon their borders. {PP 518.1 1890}

While the minds of Joshua and other leaders were still oppressed with anxious forebodings, strange tidings reached them. Beside the Jordan, near the place of Israel’s miraculous passage of the river, the two and a half tribes had erected a great altar, similar to the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING at Shiloh. The LAW OF GOD prohibited, on pain of death, the establishment of another worship than that at the SANCTUARY. If such was the object of this altar, it would, if permitted to remain, lead the people away from the true faith. {PP 518.2 1890}

There were three annual assemblies of all Israel for worship at the SANCTUARY. Exodus 23:14-16. Shiloh was for a time the place of these gatherings; but Jerusalem afterward became the center of the nation’s worship, and here the tribes convened for the solemn feasts. {PP 537.1 1890}

Elkanah faithfully observed the ordinances of GOD. The worship at Shiloh was still maintained, but on account of irregularities in the ministration his services were not required at the SANCTUARY, to which, being a Levite, he was to give attendance. Yet he went up with his family to worship and sacrifice at the appointed gatherings. {PP 569.3 1890}

It was not customary for the Levites to enter upon their peculiar services until they were twenty-five years of age, but Samuel had been an exception to this rule. Every year saw more important trusts committed to him; and while he was yet a child, a linen ephod was placed upon him as a token of his consecration to the work of the SANCTUARY. Young as he was when brought to minister in the TABERNACLE, Samuel had even then duties to perform in the SERVICE OF GOD, according to his capacity. These were at first very humble, and not always pleasant; but they were performed to the best of his ability, and with a willing heart. His religion was carried into every duty of life. He regarded himself as GOD’S servant, and his work as GOD’S work. His efforts were accepted, because they were prompted by love to GOD and a sincere desire to do His will. It was thus that Samuel became a co-worker with the LORD of heaven and earth. And GOD fitted him to accomplish a great work for Israel. {PP 573.3 1890}

GOD had said of Abraham, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment.” Genesis 18:19. But Eli allowed his children to control him. The father became subject to the children. The curse of transgression was apparent in the corruption and evil that marked the course of his sons. They had no proper appreciation of the character of GOD or of the sacredness of His law. His service was to them a common thing. From childhood they had been accustomed to the SANCTUARY and its service; but instead of becoming more reverent, they had lost all sense of its holiness and significance. The father had not corrected their want of reverence for his authority, had not checked their disrespect for the solemn services of the SANCTUARY; and when they reached manhood, they were full of the deadly fruits of skepticism and rebellion. {PP 575.2 1890}

Yet Eli did not manifest the fruits of true repentance. He confessed his guilt, but failed to renounce the sin. Year after year the LORD delayed His threatened judgments. Much might have been done in those years to redeem the failures of the past, but the aged priest took no effective measures to correct the evils that were polluting the SANCTUARY of the LORD and leading thousands in Israel to ruin. The forbearance of GOD caused Hophni and Phinehas to harden their hearts and to become still bolder in transgression. The messages of warning and reproof to his house were made known by Eli to the whole nation. By this means he hoped to counteract, in some measure, the evil influence of his past neglect. But the warnings were disregarded by the people, as they had been by the priests. The people of surrounding nations also, who were not ignorant of the iniquities openly practiced in Israel, became still bolder in their idolatry and crime. They felt no sense of guilt for their sins, as they would have felt had the Israelites preserved their integrity. But a day of retribution was approaching. GOD’S authority had been set aside, and His worship neglected and despised, and it became necessary for Him to interpose, that the honor of His name might be maintained. {PP 582.3 1890}

GOD had commanded the Hebrews to teach their children His requirements and to make them acquainted with all His dealings with their fathers. This was one of the special duties of every parent–one that was not to be delegated to another. In the place of stranger lips the loving hearts of the father and mother were to give instruction to their children. Thoughts of GOD were to be associated with all the events of daily life. The mighty works of GOD in the deliverance of His people and the promises of the REDEEMER to come were to be often recounted in the homes of Israel; and the use of figures and symbols caused the lessons given to be more firmly fixed in the memory. The great truths of GOD’S providence and of the future life were impressed on the young mind. It was trained to see GOD alike in the scenes of nature and the words of revelation. The stars of heaven, the trees and flowers of the field, the lofty mountains, the rippling brooks–all spoke of the CREATOR. The solemn service of sacrifice and worship at the SANCTUARY and the utterances of the prophets were a revelation of GOD. {PP 592.2 1890}

As they drew near to the city they met some young maidens who had come out to draw water, and inquired of them for the seer. In reply they were told that a religious service was about to take place, that the prophet had already arrived, there was to be an offering upon “the high place,” and after that a sacrificial feast. A great change had taken place under Samuel’s administration. When the call of GOD first came to him the services of the SANCTUARY were held in contempt. “Men abhorred the offering of the LORD.” 1 Samuel 2:17. But the WORSHIP OF GOD was now maintained throughout the land, and the people manifested an interest in religious services. There being no ministration in the TABERNACLE, sacrifices were for the time offered elsewhere; and the cities of the priests and Levites, where the people resorted for instruction, were chosen for this purpose. The highest points in these cities were usually selected as the place of sacrifice, and hence were called “the high places.” {PP 609.1 1890}

The fate of Uzzah was a divine judgment upon the violation of a most explicit command. Through Moses the LORD had given special instruction concerning the transportation of the ARK. None but the priests, the descendants of Aaron, were to touch it, or even to look upon it uncovered. The divine direction was, “The sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die.” Numbers 4:15. The priests were to cover the ARK, and then the Kohathites must lift it by the staves, which were placed in rings upon each side of the ARK and were never removed. To the Gershonites and Merarites, who had in charge the CURTAINS and boards and pillars of the TABERNACLE, Moses gave carts and oxen for the transportation of that which was committed to them. “But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the SANCTUARY belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders.” Numbers 7:9. Thus in the bringing of the ARK from Kirjath-jearim there had been a direct and inexcusable disregard of the LORD’S directions. {PP 705.2 1890}

The solemn ceremonies attending the removal of the ARK had made a lasting impression upon the people of Israel, arousing a deeper interest in the SANCTUARY service and kindling anew their zeal for JEHOVAH. David endeavored by every means in his power to deepen these impressions. The service of song was made a regular part of religious worship, and David composed psalms, not only for the use of the priests in the SANCTUARY service, but also to be sung by the people in their journeys to the national ALTAR at the annual feasts. The influence thus exerted was far-reaching, and it resulted in freeing the nation from idolatry. Many of the surrounding peoples, beholding the prosperity of Israel, were led to think favorably of Israel’s GOD, who had done such great things for His people. {PP 711.2 1890}

The TABERNACLE built by Moses, with all that appertained to the SANCTUARY service, except the ARK, was still at Gibeah. It was David’s purpose to make Jerusalem the religious center of the nation. He had erected a palace for himself, and he felt that it was not fitting for the ARK OF GOD to rest within a tent. He determined to build for it a temple of such magnificence as should express Israel’s appreciation of the honor granted the nation in the abiding presence of JEHOVAH their King. Communicating his purpose to the prophet Nathan, he received the encouraging response, “Do all that is in thine heart; for the LORD is with thee.” {PP 711.3 1890}

David had learned by his own experience how hard is the path of him who departs from GOD. He had felt the condemnation of the broken law, and had reaped the fruits of transgression; and his whole soul was moved with solicitude that the leaders of Israel should be true to GOD, and that Solomon should obey GOD’S LAW, shunning the sins that had weakened his father’s authority, embittered his life, and dishonored GOD. David knew that it would require humility of heart, a constant trust in GOD, and unceasing watchfulness to withstand the temptations that would surely beset Solomon in his exalted station; for such prominent characters are a special mark for the shafts of Satan. Turning to his SON, already acknowledged as his successor on the THRONE, David said: “And thou, Solomon my SON, know thou the GOD of thy father, and serve Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off forever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build a house for the SANCTUARY: be strong, and do it.” {PP 750.3 1890}

Shall we forget our holy calling, brethren? Shall the mournful deterioration of piety be seen among us, that caused the rejection of the Jewish nation? Shall we who have had so great light upon BIBLE TRUTH let a dry, dead formalism take the place of zeal and faith? Is our light to go out in darkness? Are we not to work zealously to counteract the arts of the enemy? We must watch and pray. We must arouse and take in the situation. We are in the DAY OF ATONEMENT, and we are to work in harmony with CHRIST’S work of CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY from the sins of the people. Let no man who desires to be found with the wedding garment on, resist our LORD in his office work. As he is, so will his followers be in this world. We must now set before the people the work which by faith we see our great High-priest accomplishing in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Those who do not sympathize with JESUS in his work in the heavenly courts, who do not CLEANSE the soul temple of every defilement, but who engage in some enterprise not in harmony with this work, are joining with the enemy of GOD and man in leading minds away from the truth and work for this time. {RH, January 21, 1890 par. 4}

The SPIRIT OF TRUTH has a refining, elevating, heavenly influence upon mind and character. We are to study the mind of CHRIST, and to receive the truth as it is in JESUS. We are to watch and pray, to consult the living oracles of GOD. When any lust takes possession of the mind in any way or to any degree, and there is a yielding to fleshly desires, we lose the image of CHRIST in spirit and character. The work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY becomes obscure to the minds of those who are controlled by the temptations of the evil one, and they engage in side issues to gratify their own selfish purposes, and their true moral standing is determined by their works. {RH, January 21, 1890 par. 5}

When we feel destitute of the blessing of GOD, feel there is no SPIRITUAL life in us, and we cannot understand why we are in this condition, we should not doubt the LORD, and blame him for our darkness. It is not from GOD, for he has promised power and fullness of joy. We should search GOD’S WORD, and see if we have not allowed envy, evil surmising, and hatred to run riot in our hearts, or if we have not done something to mar the soul temple. CHRIST is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and he is there to make an ATONEMENT for the people. He is there to present his wounded side and pierced hands to his FATHER. He is there to plead for his Church that is upon the earth. He is CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY from the sins of the people. What is our work?–It is our work to be in harmony with the work of CHRIST. By faith we are to work with him, to be in union with him. {RH, January 28, 1890 par. 7}

The ministers of GOD are not to be content to remain in ignorance of the deep things of his word. Many do not make any progress in attaining knowledge; they are slothful servants, who do not realize the importance of the truth for this time. They fall easily under temptation, and are content to meet a low standard. They are not self-sacrificing, because they have not the SPIRIT OF CHRIST. They do not become more and more efficient in the work, because they do not become more and more intelligent in the SCRIPTURES of truth. They do not seek to place themselves in harmony with the work of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where he is making an ATONEMENT for his people. While CHRIST IS CLEANSING THE SANCTUARY, the worshipers on earth should carefully review their life, and compare their character with the standard of righteousness. As they see their defects, they should seek the aid of the SPIRIT OF GOD to enable them to have moral strength to resist the temptations of Satan, and to reach the perfection of the standard. They may be victors over the very temptations which seemed too strong for humanity to bear; for the divine power will be combined with their human effort, and Satan cannot overcome them. {RH, April 8, 1890 par. 3}

Those who stand in vindication of the LAW OF GOD, are in a position where they need much of the SPIRIT OF GOD. If ministers are wanting in meekness, if they are easily irritated when opposed, it is evident that they need divine enlightenment. Men must manifest the grace of CHRIST as they labor for souls. The truth as it is in JESUS will have altogether a different influence upon the minds of unbelievers, from that which it has had when presented as a theory or as a controversial subject. If we do our very best to present the truth in its stirring character, crossing the opinions and ideas of others, it will be misinterpreted, misapplied, and misstated, to those who are entertaining error, in order to make it appear in an objectionable light. There are few to whom you bring the truth, who have not been drinking of the wine of Babylon. It is hard for them to comprehend the truth, therefore the necessity of teaching it as it is in JESUS. Those who claim to be lovers of truth can afford to be meek and lowly of heart, as was the great TEACHER. Those who have been diligently working in the mines of GOD’S WORD, and have discovered the precious ore in the rich veins of truth, in the divine mysteries that have been hidden for ages, will exalt the LORD JESUS, the SOURCE OF ALL TRUTH, by revealing in their characters the sanctifying power of what they believe. JESUS and his grace must be enshrined in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. Then he will be revealed in words, in prayer, in exhortation, in the presentation of sacred truth, for this is the great secret of SPIRITUAL success. When self is woven into our labors, then the truth we bear to others does not sanctify, refine, and ennoble our own hearts; it will not testify that we are fit vessels for the MASTER’S use. It is only through fervent prayer that we may hold sweet fellowship with JESUS, and through this blessed communion the words and the spirit are made fragrant with the SPIRIT OF CHRIST. There is not a heart that will not bear watching. JESUS, the precious SAVIOUR, enjoined watchfulness. The oversight of self must not be relaxed for a moment. The heart must be kept with diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. Watch and discipline the thoughts, that you may not sin with your lips. {RH, June 3, 1890 par. 10}

It is the absence of the graces of GOD’S SPIRIT that leaves the home in a dark, unhappy condition. Your home should be a blessed SANCTUARY where GOD can come in, and where his holy angels can minister unto you. If impatience and unkindness are manifested one to another, angels cannot be attracted to your home; but where love and peace abide, these heavenly ones love to come and bring still more of the HOLY influence of the home above. {RH, August 5, 1890 par. 1}

It is the privilege of every member of the church to abide in CHRIST, and to have CHRIST abide in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. Then divine love will pervade the entire being. Divine wisdom will reveal to him the hidden treasures of truth. The truth as it is in JESUS will be revealed to those who, though in darkness, are inquiring for the good and the true way. A large number of those who have not the truth are restless in their darkness and ignorance and SPIRITUAL poverty; they are being drawn by CHRIST to seek for the goodly pearls of truth. Now if the members of the church are living out their light, they will be laborers with CHRIST in leading inquirers to these hidden treasures. Their friends and neighbors will then be able to rejoice in the light of the truth as it is in JESUS. {RH, December 9, 1890 par. 15}

The apostles had been associated with CHRIST in his work, but there were still greater attainments for them than they had yet reached. They needed to be purified, renewed, and consecrated to GOD for the important mission before them. The MASTER had opened before them many precious gems of truth that had been hidden beneath the rubbish of error; he had placed them in their proper frame-work of truth; and yet all this labor of the SON OF GOD would be in vain unless the truth should be enshrined in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. The revealed truth of GOD must become an abiding principle in the hearts of his followers. The teacher of truth must be a living representation of its sanctifying power. The truth he reveals to others must become a living agent to transform his soul into the divine image. The minister must dedicate all his intrusted capital of power to the LORD’S service. {ST, January 27, 1890 par. 4}

We exhort you to come up to the help of the LORD against the mighty. Shut out everything that will separate you from GOD; put away sin from among you. The people of the world may seem to pass on without perplexity, and to be more favored than the righteous. David says: “Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. Verily I have CLEANSED my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency. For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. . . . When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me; until I went into the SANCTUARY of GOD; then understood I their end.” There are many who are in the same condition of mind today as was David; but if they would go into the SANCTUARY, and understand the latter end of the wicked, they would be no more envious of them. {ST, June 2, 1890 par. 12}

Those who depend upon their own righteousness instead of relying upon the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST, will lose the prize; they will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. Let everyone who is striving for the precious boon of ETERNAL life distrust his own strength, and, in much prayer, cast his helpless soul upon CHRIST. There is too little searching of the WORD OF GOD for definite direction in the way of life. The larger number of those who profess to believe on CHRIST have only superficial ideas as to what constitutes Christian character. A sad awakening will come to such souls sooner or later. The thoughts of these superficial believers are not deep or strong enough to comprehend the work of the ATONEMENT, and the relation of that work to their own work and life. So terrible a deception has come upon many, so many false ideas have become inwrought in the character, that it seems necessary to tear the whole experience to pieces in order that self-dependence and self-sufficiency may be laid aside, and outward obedience deepened to inward piety and truth. Do not deceive yourself with the idea that your own inherent righteousness will bring you into harmony with GOD. Do not fail to look upon yourself as a sinner in the sight of GOD. Do not fail to look upon JESUS lifted up upon the cross; and as you look, believe and live; for by faith in the atoning sacrifice you may be justified through the redemption that is in CHRIST JESUS. Believe that you are forgiven, that you are justified, not in transgression and disobedience, but in submission to the will of GOD. If through faith you lay hold of the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST, then be not careless of your thoughts, your words, your works. Study much, and pray that as CHRIST has shown you the way, he may by his grace keep you in the way. For we are “kept by the power of GOD through faith;” and even faith is not of ourselves, but it also is the gift of GOD. {ST, December 1, 1890 par. 1}

It is well for you to think carefully, solemnly, of what CHRIST is to you, and what you are to CHRIST. CHRIST and eternity should be to you a living reality. You need the truth, not kept in the outer court, but brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, sanctifying the entire man. If the heart is not constantly under the HOLY influence of the truth as it is in CHRIST, the soul temple will be defiled with the buyers and the sellers. Can I impress your mind with the fact, as JESUS has presented it to me, that the truth must find an abiding place in the heart? Then through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT it will exert its influence in all you do and say. {Lt5b-1891}

You cannot keep yourself in the LOVE OF GOD without revealing an indwelling SAVIOUR. You need the truth, sacred, holy truth, brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul; then you will show the fruits thereof. If GOD has given you large affections, let them flow to the proper objects. You cannot love GOD and your SAVIOUR too much. But while you may be very effusive in your attentions to young girls or women, you do not have ardent zeal and overflowing love for JESUS, in whom all our hopes of ETERNAL life are centered. {Lt8b-1891}

There are many represented to me in the church who seem just like drowning men engaged in a desperate struggle to keep their heads above water. They have not in their religious life ever died to self. Self is their idol; they worship at its shrine. Weakness and a fluctuating experience open the way for Satan’s temptations and they will be easily overcome. A faithful waiting upon the LORD will renew their strength. Trials of faith will come, but love, patience, and constancy will be weighed by the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {Lt26a-1891}

Satan is beside them to influence them in a course of evil; and as they yield to him, they influence others to take the same course. They do not realize the sacredness of the things of GOD, but in spirit they conform to the world and fail to live the divine life, which is opposed to the world and its customs. They have a knowledge of the truth, but fail to bring it into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that they may be sanctified through the truth. {Lt31-1891}

Let each one closely examine himself to see whether he is in the faith, to see whether the truth he professes to believe has been kept in the outer court, or brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that he may be sanctified thereby. The whole heart must be entered and purified by the searching SPIRIT OF GOD. JESUS will not abide in the soul where pride exists. And if we desire His presence, the soul temple must be CLEANSED of all evil occupants. If the door of the heart is open to JESUS, He will come in; His presence will expel every unholy thought, and by faith we may hold sweet communion with GOD. If JESUS abides in the heart, we shall glorify Him in our lives, for the Christian is to let His light shine forth to the world in good works. {Lt31-1891}

Remember, you are building character for eternity. You have failed in some points again and again, as many others have done. You need to bring more solid timber into your character-building and to remove every specked, worm-eaten, decaying piece. The world passes judgment upon us, our words, our actions, our failures to stand true to principle. The LORD weighs us in the scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He gives each one of us a post of duty and expects us to look to Him for orders, to be reliable and trustworthy, for sacred, solemn responsibilities are placed upon us. The steward must be found faithful. {Lt34-1891}

Men fail because they trust to their own understanding, their own sufficiency, rather than in Him who has said, “Without me ye can do nothing.” When they flatter themselves that they are doing so much, the scales of the SANCTUARY register them as nothing, because the image and superscription of CHRIST are wanting. O, is there one man who has a sense of what CHRIST is to him, and what he is to CHRIST, who will serve the MASTER with an eye single to the GLORY OF GOD? {Lt34-1891}

It will not be decided in the measurement of the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY whether a man is merely innocent or guilty, but a question of how guilty. Every man will find himself not judged by his signing up of himself as to merit or guilt, but the just judge of man’s work will be proportionate to the light given him of GOD, the circumstances surrounding him in comparison with those who, though their opportunities and religious advantages were far less than his, appropriated these advantages, laying hold on ETERNAL life, [and sought] every help he could obtain that he might form a character that will place him among the blessed. {Lt52-1891}

These little acts of sympathy, of kindness, omitted, reveal that were they in positions where they could exercise their power, the heavy hand of selfishness would gather to themselves, benefit themselves, and please themselves. If they did not directly oppress [they] would take no notice if others abused and oppressed, but pass by unheeded, saying with Cain, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The idle, thoughtless words that misjudge and misrepresent in regard to those cases who need help in words, and the tenderest compassion opened to them in relieving their necessity as they can, even to their own disadvantage, is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. The cherishing of evil thoughts, the unchaste look, the deed of darkness in secret, all are brought into judgment. Isaiah speaks of the putting forth of the finger and the speaking of vanity. Let every man and woman study to avoid this. It means oppression and wrong to someone. {Lt52-1891}

Every worker should realize his personal responsibility. Say: “I am a Christian; I must obey the HOLY precepts of the LAW OF GOD. I am a Christian; I cannot but do the works of CHRIST. I am not authorized to let one word of guile escape my lips. Never did CHRIST speak harsh, unbecoming words. Whatever men in positions of trust may do that seems altogether unjust and unreasonable, it is no excuse for me to retaliate and add a greater sin to the one already committed. That righteous One who measures character, weighing it in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY, will judge me by the fruit I bear. {Ms13-1891}

The past with its burden of record has rolled into eternity. Begin now to act upon right principles, as Christian gentlemen treating one another with respect and kindness. Every worker should educate himself to realize his individual responsibility. He should say, I am a Christian. I must obey every word that proceedeth out of the MOUTH OF GOD. I am a Christian to do justice and judgment by all who are associated with me. I am a Christian; therefore, I must have the mind of CHRIST. Every word and thought must be brought into captivity to JESUS CHRIST. Not one words of selfishness or of guile must escape my lips. Never did CHRIST speak harsh, unbecoming words. Whatever men in positions of trust may do that seems altogether unjust and unreasonable, it shall be no excuse for me to retaliate, for that would add a greater sin to the one already committed. That righteous one who measured, weighing it in the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, will judge me not by my profession, but by the fruit I bear. {Ms13a-1891}

Monday, March 16, 1891. I attended the morning meeting, and spoke on faith. If men and women had the faith that works by love and purifies the soul from every species of selfishness, they would not crowd into Battle Creek, where, having nothing special to do, they lose their SPIRITUAL vitality and their love for GOD. Instead, they would seek homes among those who are in darkness, those who have not so much as heard that there is a third angel’s message to be given to the world. The negligent ones, who will continue to leave undone the work that they should do, will be weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and pronounced wanting. {Ms23-1891}

When JESUS is within the SANCTUARY above, when we have an ADVOCATE in the courts of heaven, how earnestly should the corresponding work of intercession be going on upon the earth! While we may see and should sense the guilt of sin, we are to appreciate the MERCY OF GOD through the ATONEMENT. The LORD has promised that because of the propitiatory sacrifice He will, if we repent, certainly forgive our iniquities. Now, while CHRIST is pleading in our behalf, while the FATHER accepts the merits of the atoning Sacrifice, let us ask and we shall receive. Let all confess their sins and let them go beforehand to judgment that they may be forgiven for CHRIST’S sake, and that pardon may be written against their names. {Ms40-1891}

When this church is weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY, it is found wanting, having left its first love. The TRUE WITNESS declares, “I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and has patience, and for my name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted.” Notwithstanding all this, the church is found wanting. What is the fatal deficiency?–“Thou hast left thy first love.” Is not this our case? Our doctrines may be correct; we may hate false doctrine, and may not receive those who are not true to principle; we may labor with untiring energy; but even this is not sufficient. What is our motive? Why are we called upon to repent?–“Thou hast left thy first love.” Let each member of the church study this important warning and reproof. Let each one see if in contending for the truth, if in debating on the theory, he has not lost the tender love of CHRIST. Has not CHRIST been left out of the sermons, and out of the heart? Is there not danger that many are going forward with a profession of the truth, doing missionary work, while the love of CHRIST has not been woven into the labor? This solemn warning from the TRUE WITNESS means much; it demands that you shall remember from whence you are fallen, and repent, and do the first works; “or else,” says the TRUE WITNESS, “I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” O that the church might realize its need of its first ardor of love! When this is wanting, all other excellences are insufficient. The call to repentance is one that cannot be disregarded without peril. A belief in the theory of the truth is not enough. To present this theory to unbelievers does not constitute you a witness for CHRIST. The light that gladdened your heart when you first understood the message for this time, is an essential element in your experience and labors, and this has been lost out of your heart and life. CHRIST beholds your lack of zeal, and declares that you have fallen, and are in a perilous position. {RH, February 3, 1891 par. 8}

How much a work of transformation is needed among all the churches and in all the world! The tender, pitying love of JESUS has been excluded from the heart, and self and its interests have closed the ears against the appeals of the widow and the orphan. As a result of this lack of service to the needy and unfortunate, many are lifted up in pride, and are full of self-esteem and Phariseeism. They are cold, hard, unimpressible. JESUS died to save sinners, and his professed followers should be laborers together with him. But instead of doing this, they wrap the garment of their own righteousness about them, and by their daily life prove themselves destitute of the GRACE OF GOD. They are unapproachable, because they are bound about with selfishness and self-importance. They have no home religion, they have no neighborhood religion, they have no church religion. Their lives should be fragrant with deeds of love and mercy, a savor of life unto life; but instead of this, they are as destitute of loveliness as were the hills of Gilboa of dew and rain. Many of this class are placed in positions of trust, and they know not the FATHER nor the SON. They may be zealous in certain things, and have some characteristics essential to the positions they occupy; but CHRIST, who weighs actions in the balances of the SANCTUARY, says, “I know thy works.” “I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly in a time and way least expected by them, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” {RH, February 10, 1891 par. 8}

Religion is not a mere theory, a sentiment; it is an earnest working out of our salvation with fear and trembling; for it is “GOD that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Faith and love are precious plants, but they need careful cultivation and care, that they may flourish in the life and bear fruit to the GLORY OF GOD. Those who enter the mansions which CHRIST has gone to prepare will be those who LOVE GOD and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. They must have the gold tried in the fire, the gold of faith and love. Those who hold high positions in the cause of GOD need to seek for this gold; they need the transforming grace of CHRIST. The crucifixion of self must take place, or their names will be blotted out of the book of life. GOD can make them pillars in his work; he can make them faithful servants by his grace. Then let them seek GOD while still it is called today. Now is the time when the LORD is testing character, weighing moral worth in the balances of the SANCTUARY. O, let us seek the gold tried in the fire, let us seek the white raiment of CHRIST’S righteousness, that the shame of our nakedness do not appear, and anoint our eyes with the heavenly eye-salve, that we may discern the working of GOD, and not be found groping our way in blindness. {RH, July 28, 1891 par. 10}

Here are the mighty agencies for moving the world. The cross of Calvary brings under tribute every power of those who believe on CHRIST, that they may be instrumentalities for the saving of souls. Human effort is to be united with the divine; it must derive its efficacy from heaven. We are to be laborers together with GOD. The LORD is represented as opening the hearts of men and women to receive the WORD, and the HOLY SPIRIT makes the WORD effective. Those who receive the truth have that faith which leads to decided action, which works by love, and purifies the soul. Thus the truth is a sanctifier. Its transforming power is seen on the character. When it has been admitted into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, it does not operate superficially, leaving the heart unchanged; it does not awaken the emotions merely, to the neglect of the judgment and will; but it goes down to the very depths of the nature, and brings the whole being into harmonious action. {RH, October 6, 1891 par. 3}

JESUS knew that whatever was presented that was out of harmony with what he came to earth to unfold, was false and delusive. But he said, “Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.” Having stood in the counsels of GOD, having dwelt in the everlasting heights of the SANCTUARY, all elements of truth were in him, and of him; for he was one with GOD. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak what we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the SON OF MAN which is in heaven.” “Every WORD OF GOD is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” {RH, December 1, 1891 par. 10}

Our compassionate SAVIOUR is not less mindful of his people now. He is more willing to give HIS HOLY SPIRIT as a guide and instructor to them that ask him, than earthly parents are to give good gifts to their children. Do not be afraid to trust GOD; rely upon his sure promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” JESUS has presented to us truth full of SPIRITUAL light and vitality. But has this truth been brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul? Does CHRIST abide in your hearts by faith? If CHRIST is in you, you will make him manifest to others. We must have more of JESUS, and less, far less, of self. The aspiration of our hearts should be, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O GOD.” JESUS must abide in the heart; and where he is, the carnal desires will be subdued, and kept in subjection by the operation of the SPIRIT OF GOD. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through GOD to the pulling down of strong holds; casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of GOD, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of CHRIST.” {BEcho, June 15, 1892 par. 6}

While CHRIST is the minister in the SANCTUARY above, he is also, through his delegates, the minister of his church on earth. He speaks to the people through chosen men, and carries forward his work through them, as when, in the days of his humiliation, he moved visibly upon the earth. Although centuries have passed, the lapse of time has not changed his parting promise to his disciples. “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] From CHRIST’S ascension to the present day, men ordained of GOD, deriving their authority from him, have become teachers of the faith. CHRIST, the TRUE SHEPHERD, superintends his work through the instrumentality of these under-shepherds. Thus the position of those who labor in word and doctrine becomes very important. In CHRIST’S stead they beseech the people to be reconciled to GOD. {GW92 11.1 1892}

The work of the minister is only begun when the truth is opened to the understanding of the people. CHRIST is our MEDIATOR and officiating high priest in the presence of the FATHER. He was shown to John as a LAMB that had been slain, as in the very act of pouring out his blood in the sinner’s behalf. When the LAW OF GOD is set before the sinner, showing him the depth of his sins, he should then be pointed to the LAMB OF GOD, that taketh away the sin of the world. He should be taught repentance toward GOD and faith toward our LORD JESUS CHRIST. Thus will the labor of CHRIST’S representative be in harmony with the SAVIOUR’S work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {GW92 13.2 1892

There are too many in families and in the church who make little account of glaring inconsistencies. There are young men who appear what they are not. They seem honest and true; but they are like whited sepulchers, fair without, but corrupt to the core. The heart is spotted, stained with sin; and thus the record stands in the heavenly courts. A process has been going on in the mind that has made them callous, past feeling. But if their characters, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, are pronounced wanting in the GREAT DAY OF GOD, it will be a calamity that they do not now comprehend. Truth, precious, untarnished truth, is to be a part of the character. {GW92 344.1 1892

I am thoroughly in earnest and terribly disgusted with the exhibitions of self-confidence and self- sufficiency which are cropping out everywhere. Character is being weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY. Saith the LORD, “I know thy works.” We may know that GOD is acquainted with every thought, every action; and we shall be judged according to GOD’S ideas, and not according to our estimate of ourselves. {Lt8-1892}

In the judgment every work will be estimated at its true value and not according to the opinion of finite minds of the empty, fickle praise of those who need the sanctification of the SPIRIT OF GOD. You have been gratified when human lips praised your husband’s discourses, but there was so little of true value in many of these discourses that in the books of heaven angels have traced opposite his name, “On such a day, in such a place, Robert Hare did not preach CHRIST and Him crucified as the sinner’s only hope. He is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting.” {Lt9-1892}

There are many who have no interest to attend the services of the SANCTUARY, and who have not felt the power of the WORD OF GOD, because in the popular preaching it is covered up with rubbish of man’s devising. Present to these souls what CHRIST is to you, and what He is to all that believe. Act your part in faith. Lay the poor wandering lost soul on the bosom of CHRIST’S infinite love. {Lt9-1892}

When I see how much might be done in such countries as I am now in, my heart burns within me to show those who profess to be children of GOD how much money is wasted upon dress, on expensive FURNITURE, on selfish pleasures, in excursions merely for selfish gratification. All this is embezzling the LORD’S goods, using to please self means which is wholly His and which should be devoted to His service. Souls are perishing right within the shadow of our own doors, and in foreign countries, because the money that GOD purposed should carry the light to others did not flow into His treasury; because those who professed the truth did not love the truth and bring it into the INNER SANCTUARY of their souls, bringing every thought into captivity to JESUS CHRIST. Souls professing Godliness are as destitute of the love of CHRIST in the heart as the veriest sinner. {Lt10-1892}

Souls are perishing right within the shadows of our own doors, and in foreign countries, because the money that GOD purposed to carry the light to others did not flow into His treasury, because those who profess the truth did not love the truth and bring it into the INNER SANCTUARY of their soul, bringing every thought into captivity to JESUS CHRIST. So many professing Godliness are as destitute of the love of CHRIST in the heart as the veriest sinner. {Lt10a-1892}

We must seek and serve the LORD with all the heart, might, mind and strength, and love our neighbor as ourselves, or we shall be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and pronounced wanting. To be wanting when the grand review shall take place is to be wanting forever. There will be no time to go over the ground then and pick up the dropped stitches, no time to prepare for the inspection of heaven. Now is our time, now is our day. Precious and golden opportunities are now ours to become complete in Him, even in CHRIST JESUS our LORD. If we fail here in this life, there is no second probation. We must now make no failure respecting the Christian character. The pure in heart shall see GOD. {Lt11-1892}

It is not my work to make men believe. The HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD alone can do this work. But the same blindness that held the Jews from receiving CHRIST, holds people from receiving Him into the INNER SANCTUARY of their souls today. The soul temple is defiled, and unless it is purged, will become entirely corrupted. The LORD is coming, and yet, as a people, we are far from walking in the light. One has his pet idol, another has his favorite sin, and so it remains that the HOLY SPIRIT can do little for the professed believer. {Lt11-1892}

The CHURCH OF CHRIST in the world is to be a powerful people, a name and praise in all the earth. JESUS has done everything to accomplish this. Now there need to be earnest, deep, sincere efforts to redeem the past unfaithfulness. Time, precious time, has been lost in wanderings and backslidings from GOD. Every character is to be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY; if the moral character and SPIRITUAL advancement do not correspond to the benefits, opportunities, and blessings bestowed, wanting is written against the name. {Lt15-1892}

What does the term “Christian” signify? What is it to be CHRISTLIKE? The truth is to be brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul and not to be kept in the outer court. Many, we are sorry to say, act in the common concerns of life just as they would if they had never heard the truth. The same self-love, the same selfishness and self-uplifting, the same indulgence of self-will, the same hastiness of temper, the same sensitive pride and insubordination are daily manifested by many. {Lt20-1892}

Those who profess to believe the special truths for this time need to be converted and sanctified by the truth. As Christians we are made depositories of sacred truth, and we are not to keep the truth in the outer court, but bring it into the SANCTUARY of the soul. Then the church will possess divine vitality throughout. The weak shall be as David, and David as the angel of the LORD. One question will be all absorbing—Who shall approach nearest the likeness of CHRIST? Who shall do most to win souls to righteousness? When this is the ambition of believers, contention is at an end; the prayer of CHRIST is answered. {Lt25b-1892}

Satan is at work from beneath to stir up the hellish powers of his confederacy of evil against the just. He imbues human agencies with his own attributes. Efforts will be put forth by evil angels, united with evil men to harass, persecute, and destroy, but the LORD GOD of Israel will not forsake those who trust in Him. Amid the strengthening of infidelity and apostasy, amid pretended illumination, which is the blindest presumption and delusion, there will be a light shining upon GOD’S people from the SANCTUARY above. The truth of GOD will triumph. The COMMANDMENTS OF GOD will be trampled underfoot as they were trampled upon by Satan in heaven. {Lt30a-1892}

The office work of the SPIRIT OF GOD is to qualify men to become teachers. The HOLY SPIRIT might be given to all men to teach them, but GOD does not work in that way. The LORD works through human agencies. “Ye are my witnesses,” saith the LORD. GOD sends men and women to instruct and educate others, and to preach to the world the tidings of the gospel. Not until the work of our great HIGH PRIEST is done in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY will our work be done. The work of teaching will go on, the care of the sick will rest upon us, and institutions will be needed for the treatment of the afflicted, and means will be required for the extension of the knowledge of the glorious GOSPEL OF GOD and our LORD JESUS CHRIST, until a people shall be found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, standing blameless before heaven, and prepared for the great day of the LORD. {Lt93-1892}

We ask, do our brethren and sisters stand on higher ground than before the LORD sent them special help according to their request? Have they advanced day by day? Do the Christians who claim to believe the truth practice all the truth in their daily life? The LORD has been putting many things before my mind during these weeks of enforced helplessness. And how much owest thou unto thy LORD, for the precious old truths that have been brought from beneath the rubbish and presented to the hearts with power as a new revelation? How have you treated these truths? Have you brought them into the SANCTUARY of the soul? Have you revealed to the heavenly intelligences that you do receive the truth by acting upon them? {Ms40-1892}

In some places the truth has been introduced, and souls have taken hold of it, but they are in limited circumstances and can do but little toward securing advantages that would give character to the work. This renders it hard to extend the work to new fields. When the truth is presented, and people become interested, they are told by the ministers, and it is echoed by the church members, “This interest will all die down; you will give up these new ideas about the SEVENTH-DAY SABBATH and the coming of the LORD. This people have no church, and you have no place of worship. You are a small company, poor and illiterate, there are few talented men among you.” Can we expect that this will bring no temptation to those who see the reasons of our faith and feel the conviction of the SPIRIT OF GOD in regard to the BIBLE TRUTH presented? It has to be often repeated that from a small beginning, large interests may grow. If wisdom and sanctified judgment and skilful generalship are manifested by us as a people in building up the interests of our REDEEMER’S kingdom in the world, humble SANCTUARIES will be erected, where those who lift the cross in obeying the truth may find a home, a place in which they can worship GOD according to the dictates of their own conscience. {Lt2c-1892}

Doctrinal discourses have been preached to the people, and many have listened and have accepted the doctrines, who have had little knowledge of the WORD OF GOD; for they have not been students of the BIBLE, and have never felt it their duty to dig deep in the mines of truth. They catch at the surface truths. A much more thorough work should be done. Some system must be adopted, that those who really want to know the truth as it is in JESUS, may have an opportunity of becoming students, and that they may seek earnestly for SPIRITUAL knowledge and understanding, and partake of the rich provision of the MASTER’S table. They have labored diligently for the bread that perisheth; let them now put forth an effort for the heavenly bread, and work with an earnestness befitting the treasure for which they seek. We plead not that the feelings may be stirred, the emotions awakened, but that the people of GOD may be fed with their portion of meat in due season. The work of our ministers must be of a different order. They must develop in patience and CHRISTLIKENESS, that they may teach the way of life by precept and example. The truth is of no value to any soul unless it is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY, and sanctifies the soul. Piety will degenerate, and religion become a shallow sentimentalism, unless the plowshare of truth is made to go deep into the fallow ground of the heart. When the truth is received, it will work radical changes in life and character; for religion means the abiding of CHRIST in the heart, and where he is, the soul goes on in SPIRITUAL activity, ever growing in grace, ever going on to perfection. All through our churches there are those who are SPIRITUALLY paralyzed. They do not manifest SPIRITUAL life. {RH, May 24, 1892 par. 4}

What honor has been bestowed upon man, in that he is privileged to come into fellowship with the LORD JESUS CHRIST; for if we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him in glory. The command is given, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;” but this encouragement is added: “For it is GOD which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” “We, then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the GRACE OF GOD in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” A power above and outside of man is to work upon him, that solid timbers may be brought into his character building. In the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul the presence of GOD is to abide. “And what agreement hath the TEMPLE OF GOD with idols? For ye are the temple of the LIVING GOD; as GOD hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their GOD, and they shall be my people.” “Know ye not that ye are the TEMPLE OF GOD, and that the SPIRIT OF GOD dwelleth in you? If any man defile the TEMPLE OF GOD, him shall GOD destroy; for the TEMPLE OF GOD is holy, which temple ye are.” “What! know ye not that your body is the temple of the HOLY GHOST which is in you, which ye have of GOD, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify GOD in your body, and in your spirit, which are GOD’S.” “For through him we both have access by one SPIRIT unto the FATHER. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of GOD; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, JESUS CHRIST himself being the chief corner-stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the LORD; in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of GOD through the SPIRIT.” {RH, October 25, 1892 par. 3}

The human minister may do his best to help you in all your difficulties; but he is only a mortal man, and can render no service that will be of benefit except to point you to the true Minister. He must do all his work in utter dependence upon GOD, as you must do your work. You have the same Source from which to receive light and strength as he has, and in every time of need you may come boldly to the THRONE OF GRACE. Of the Minister above it is written. “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. . . . For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the SON, who is consecrated forevermore.” “Now of the things which we have spoken, this is the sum: We have such a high priest, who is set on the right hand of the THRONE of the MAJESTY in the heavens; a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man.” {RH, January 17, 1893 par. 12}

But the standard of the ministry has been greatly lowered, and the minister of the true SANCTUARY is misrepresented before the world. GOD is ready to accept men as his co-laborers, and to make them the light of the world, agents through whom he can graciously infuse light into the understanding. If the men who bear the message have not CHRIST abiding in them, if they are not true,–and some are not,–may the LORD awaken them from their deception before it shall be too late. GOD wants men to be tender-hearted, compassionate, and to love as brethren. JESUS is waiting for them to open the door, that he may come in and infuse into their hearts the warmth of his love, his goodness, his tender compassion; that the worker may in all his connection with humanity reveal the SAVIOUR to the world. {SpTA01a 11.1 1892}

Before men and angels, Christians are required to show by precept and example the value of Christian character. Those who receive CHRIST as their personal SAVIOUR will be able to do this, and for them CHRIST has gone to prepare mansions in heaven. There are some who declare that all men are entitled to a place in heaven, and in the same breath they acknowledge that all men are not fitted for that heavenly abode. If all men would but accept the truth as it is in JESUS, and give it a place in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that they might become sanctified through it, they would be fitted for heaven. {ST, May 2, 1892 par. 12}

JESUS has presented to us precious truth full of SPIRITUAL light and vitality. But has this truth been brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul? Does CHRIST abide in your hearts by faith? If CHRIST is in you, you will make him manifest to others. We must have more of JESUS, and less, far less, of self. The prayer of our hearts should be, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O GOD.” JESUS must abide in the heart; and where he is, the carnal desires will be subdued and be kept in subjection by the operation of the SPIRIT OF GOD. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through GOD to the pulling down of strongholds; casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of GOD, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of CHRIST.” {ST, June 6, 1892 par. 5}

Our HEAVENLY FATHER paid an infinite price that we might come to him; and if our past life has been full of sin, we can now repent and come to GOD. The promise is that all who repent and turn from their transgressions shall be forgiven. None need be discouraged because their past life has been marked with objectionable characters. Hear what the GOD of heaven says: “When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousness shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; if the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him.” “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” I am so grateful today that we have a living SAVIOUR. There are many who go about as mournfully as though CHRIST were still in Joseph’s tomb with a great stone rolled before the door. Our hearts should be full of hope and joy, and we should be able to say with grateful tongues, CHRIST is risen, and is at the right hand of GOD to make intercession for us. He has carried his blood into the SANCTUARY, and will CLEANSE us from every sin. {ST, August 29, 1892 par. 4}

Since JESUS has made such an infinite sacrifice for us, how cruel it is that we should remain indifferent. Individually we have cost the life of the SON OF GOD, and he desires us to walk out by living faith, believing in him with all the heart. He would have you bring the truth of GOD into the INNER SANCTUARY, to soften and subdue the soul; for when CHRIST is dwelling in your heart by faith, you will love those for whom he died. Suppose that the trump of GOD should sound tonight, who is ready to respond with gladness? How many of you would cry, “Oh, stay the chariot wheels; I am not ready”? Of how many would it be written, as it was written of Belshazzar, “Thou art weighed in the balances and art found wanting”? To be wanting in that day is to be wanting forever; for when CHRIST shall come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, we must be all ready to be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and to be caught up to meet the LORD in the air. Your only safety is in coming to CHRIST, and ceasing from sin this very moment. The sweet voice of mercy is sounding in your ears today, but who can tell if it will sound tomorrow? How precious will be the appearing of CHRIST to those who have done good upon the earth. JESUS, our REDEEMER, is coming back to the world, and all those who believe in him, who love him, and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, will be able to say, “Lo, this is our GOD; we have waited for him, and he will save us.” {ST, August 29, 1892 par. 5}

When the SANCTUARY was to be built, the LORD directed Moses, saying, “Look that thou make them after their pattern, which was showed thee in the mount.” Moses was full of zeal to do GOD’S work. The most talented, skillful men were at his command to carry out his suggestions; and yet it was not given to him to make a bell, a pomegranate, a tassel, a fringe, a CURTAIN, or any vessel of the SANCTUARY, except according to the pattern shown him as GOD’S ideal. GOD called him into the mount, and revealed to him the heavenly things. The LORD covered him in order that he might see GOD and live, and behold the things that GOD would have made according to the pattern. Forty days he was in direct communication with GOD; and when he descended the mount, his face shone with glory, and he was ready to give directions as to how the SANCTUARY should be made according to the pattern shown him in the mount. {ST, November 21, 1892 par. 1}

The believer finds in the WORD OF GOD counsel and comfort; and in following the direction, he walks in the path of life. Precious truth is unfolded to his mind, and he receives it into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. The attractions of the world become tame to him; for the glory and value of eternity are opened before him. He can say with the apostle, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the SPIRIT which is of GOD; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of GOD.” How can any one persuade himself that the WORD OF GOD is but a cunningly-devised fable? How can he imagine that the life vitally connected with CHRIST is uninteresting? O that all might count the cost, and conclude that the most profitable thing for any soul to do is to make his calling and election sure, that day by day he may stand on vantage ground, looking unto JESUS, the author and finisher of his faith! {YI, December 22, 1892 par. 2}

If we would but think of GOD as often as we have evidence of His care for us we should keep Him ever in our thoughts and should delight to talk of Him and to praise Him. We talk of temporal things because we have an interest in them. We talk of our friends because we love them; our joys and our sorrows are bound up with them. Yet we have infinitely greater reason to love GOD than to love our earthly friends; it should be the most natural thing in the world to make Him first in all our thoughts, to talk of His goodness and tell of His power. The rich gifts He has bestowed upon us were not intended to absorb our thoughts and love so much that we should have nothing to give to GOD; they are constantly to remind us of Him and to bind us in bonds of love and gratitude to our heavenly Benefactor. We dwell too near the lowlands of earth. Let us raise our eyes to the open door of the SANCTUARY above, where the light of the GLORY OF GOD shines in the face of CHRIST, who “is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by Him.” Hebrews 7:25. {SC 102.1 1892 1893}

GOD has committed to our hands a most sacred work, and we need to meet together to receive instruction as to what is personal religion and family piety; we need to understand what part we shall individually be called upon to act in the grand and important work of building up the cause and work of GOD in the earth, in vindicating GOD’S HOLY LAW, and in lifting up the SAVIOUR as “the LAMB OF GOD, which taketh away the sin of the world.” We need to receive the divine touch, that we may understand our work in the home. Parents need to understand how they may send forth from the SANCTUARY of the home, Christian children, trained and educated so that they shall be fitted to shine in the world. We need the HOLY SPIRIT, in order that we may not misrepresent our faith. We need to understand in regard to the division of labour, and how each part is to be carried forward. Each one should understand the part he is to act, and there should be harmony of aim and execution in the combined work of all. Each one needs to concentrate his energies on the portion of the work he is required to build up, in order that no labour may be lost; that there be no jostling, no crossing of one another’s paths. The labourers together with GOD must put forth consecrated tact, and do their utmost that there shall be no waste of energy or means. Each individual is to rejoice in the success of his brother-labourer, and realize that he himself is co-operating with heavenly agencies for the advancement of the cause of truth, which is under the generalship of JESUS CHRIST. “For ye are labourers together with GOD; ye are GOD’S husbandry, ye are GOD’S building.” {BEcho, December 8, 1893 par. 8} {Lt7-1893}

The true peace will come among GOD’S people when through united zeal and earnest prayer the false peace, that exists to a large degree, is disturbed. . . . Those who are under the influence of the SPIRIT OF GOD will not be fanatical, but calm, steadfast, free from extravagance. But let all who have had the light of truth shining clear and distinct upon their pathway, be careful how they cry, Peace and safety. Be careful how you make the first move to suppress the messages of truth. Be careful what influence you exert at this time. Those who profess to believe the special truths for this time need to be converted and sanctified by the truth. As Christians we are made depositaries of sacred truth, and we are not to keep the truth in the outer court, but bring it into the SANCTUARY of the soul. Then the church will possess divine vitality throughout. The weak shall be as David, and David as the angel of the LORD.” {GCDB, February 6, 1893 par. 11}

The sins of Israel must go to judgment beforehand. Every sin must be confessed at the SANCTUARY, then the work will move, it must be done now. The latter rain is coming on those that are pure–all, then, will receive it as formerly. None receive the latter rain but those who do all they can. CHRIST will help us. All could be overcomers by the GRACE OF GOD through the BLOOD OF JESUS. All heaven is interested in the work. Angels are interested. {GCDB, February 7, 1893 par. 1}

The great need of the soul is to know GOD and JESUS CHRIST whom he has sent. The BIBLE abounds in practical lessons which the canvasser may safely present to the people. If he can by this means enlighten their darkened minds and bring into the SANCTUARY of the soul a knowledge of what practical religion means, he will be feeding the people. The inexhaustible theme of the LOVE OF GOD in giving HIS SON to die for the sins of the world can safely be presented. The canvasser can say to the inquiring soul, “Behold the LAMB OF GOD, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Let the canvasser go forth with this prayer upon his lips, “LORD, what wilt thou have me to do?” Let them labor as in the sight of GOD, and in the presence of heavenly angels; let them desire to be approved of GOD in all things, having an eye single to his glory, and they will not be fruitless in the work which they have undertaken. The claims of GOD are to be ever before our eyes, and we are never to forget that we are to give an account for the deeds done in the body. Weighted with this thought, canvassers will watch for souls, and their prayers will go forth from unfeigned lips, asking for wisdom to speak a word in season to those who need help. Workers of this kind will continually be elevating and purifying the soul through the sanctifying influence of the truth. They will feel the value of souls, and will make the most of the priceless opportunities granted them to make known the riches of the grace of CHRIST to those who are in poverty and darkness. {HM, August 1, 1893 par. 3}

We want the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, that our works shall be consistent with our faith. Oh, what a work, what a sacred work is before us. The parents need enlightenment, a divine touch, that they may understand their work in the home life, to send forth from the home SANCTUARY Christian children, morally trained and educated to let their light shine forth to the world. We need to understand in regard to the work to be carried forward in New Zealand. There need to be subdivisions of labor combined with harmony of aim and execution of the work which is to be set in operation. {Lt8a-1893}

While CHRIST is our officiating priest in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, we may have faith in JESUS CHRIST. We may repent of our sins, “Ye believe in GOD, believe also in me”. Every provision has been made for every necessity of our moral and SPIRITUAL nature. Truth in JESUS CHRIST reveals to us “GOD IS LOVE” and that He careth for us. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth those who fear him.” {Lt12-1893}

Whatever work you engage in, you should seek to do it with exactitude, with diligence, overcoming your inclination to have an easy time that will not be called upon to exert muscle and nerve, and where you will not have to tax mind and body to accomplish it. You need to bring solid timbers of character into your building. You need to feel the claim that the gospel puts upon you. You profess to believe the truth, but dear youth, the truth has never been brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul; it has been kept in the outer courts. When the truth is enshrined in the heart, through its sanctifying power virtue will appear in word, in deportment, and character and spirit. You will conduct yourself as a representative of JESUS CHRIST in every place and under all circumstances, and you will rather lose a right eye, or cut off a right hand, than do a dishonest action. {Lt12a-1893}

Search me, O GOD, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” We can see how necessary it is that there should be a union of the human and the divine. All the heart is to be enlisted in the conflict. The LAW OF GOD is to be written in the heart, or the soul will never obey the truth, for the truth of GOD may be no truth to one who even may claim to believe it. persons may profess to love the SAVIOUR and yet make it manifest that love does not actuate them in His service. Why is it that the love of CHRIST does not wield a constraining power over the life? It is because it has never been brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, it has never been made the principle of action. “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” {Lt13-1893}

John beholds the remnant people in these last days looking into the SANCTUARY above, and he exclaims, “And the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings and an earthquake and great hail!” The cover of the ARK was the MERCY SEAT. What was in that ARK? Beneath the MERCY SEAT in the ARK were the TEN COMMANDMENTS written with the FINGER OF GOD. This people were presented to John looking reverently upon the ARK and the TABLES OF STONE within the ARK upon which were engraven with the FINGER OF GOD the TEN COMMANDMENTS. As John beholds this scene he exclaims, here are they “which keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, and have the TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST.” {Lt19-1893}

He might bring the human soul to the threshold of heaven, and through the open door show us its inner glory flooding the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and shining out through its portals, but we must behold it by faith, not with the natural eyes. He does not forget that we are His human agents to work the works of GOD in a world all seared and marred with the curse. It is in this world, that is clothed with moral darkness like the pall of death, where darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people, that we are to walk in the light of heaven. {Lt30-1893}

Consider well the fact that all your sharp words, your censuring, your evil surmising and self-sufficiency will weigh against you when your character is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. Seek the LORD as a little child, and you will find Him. You must fall on the ROCK, CHRIST JESUS, and be broken; and then the LORD will place His mold upon you and will take you for His very own. He is so willing, so ready, to take you into a closer fellowship with Himself. He is willing to teach you how to pray with the believing confidence and assurance of a little child. Ask the dear SAVIOUR to forgive you for so often manifesting the attributes of the wily foe, and then by faith put on CHRIST. Enroll your name anew as a student in His school. Learn to pray in faith. Receive the knowledge of JESUS in such a way that you will make your intercessions to Him with meekness and lowliness of heart, lifting up holy hands without wrath or doubting. {Lt38-1893}

May the LORD guide you all, teachers and pupils and church members, to make diligent work for eternity. The end of all things is at hand. There is need now of men armed and equipped to battle for GOD. Please read Ezekiel 9. Who bear the sign, the mark OF GOD in their foreheads? The men that sigh and cry for the abominations done in the midst of Jerusalem—among those that profess to be GOD’S people—not those who are engrossed in games for their selfish amusement. After the mark had been set upon this class—who are registered in the books of heaven as overcomers—by the angelic messenger of GOD, the command is given to the ministers of destruction: “Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: Slay utterly old and young, both maids and little children, and women; but come not near any man upon whom is the mark. And begin at MY SANCTUARY. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.” GOD grant that these solemn predictions which are so speedily to be fulfilled, may be impressed upon the hearts of all! See Revelation 7:1-4, 12-17; Zechariah 3. {Lt47-1893}

In our experience we have seen men and women to whom was entrusted a large amount of capital become decidedly selfish in spirit and practice, so that they even embezzled their LORD’S means. After GOD had tried and tested them, and they failed to repent and reform, against their names was registered, “weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and found wanting.” Let not this be the case with you. For CHRIST’S sake I implore you to be a faithful steward. May the HOLY SPIRIT guide us with heavenly wisdom and keep us so that we shall not handle the WORD OF GOD deceitfully. We want to be able to discern the meaning that GOD would have His Truth convey. {Lt63-1893}

Because of the large amount entrusted, we have in our experience seen men decidedly change in spirit and in practice, and embezzle their LORD’S entrusted capital, and after GOD had tried and tested them, in the books of heaven was registered: “weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and found wanting”. Let not this be the case with you. I implore you for CHRIST’S sake to be found a faithful steward. May the HOLY SPIRIT guide us with wisdom that is not our own, and keep us that not one of those who profess to believe the truth shall handle the WORD OF GOD deceitfully. We want to discern the meaning which He who gave the Truth would convey. {Lt63a-1893}

A saint in the home will be a saint everywhere and will receive the heavenly reward. Angels of GOD are ever watching the development of character and weighing moral worth in the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Just what a man or woman is in spirit, in character, in his home life, he will be in the church. Has he the character of CHRIST? {Lt109-1893}

Let my brother remember his wife is a child of GOD. She loves JESUS. She loves the truth. The first love is to be quickened and kindled into love which, cherished, leads to forbearance and gentleness and generous nobility of soul. Through faith in the truth, which is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, you are both to be sanctified. You are born of GOD. Now live the new life unto JESUS CHRIST, walking in the light as CHRIST is in the light, thinking and doing the will of GOD. CHRIST, who is your life, will be distributed through the home life, through every phase of the business life, throughout the church. It is thus we become the light of the world. {Lt109-1893}

There is nothing said or done or even thought that GOD does not know; nothing can escape His infinite eye. There is a WITNESS to every thought and word and action of our lives, and that WITNESS is the HOLY ONE, a sin-hating GOD. The GOD of heaven is measuring character and weighing moral worth in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY. How many in these gatherings of the secret society are weighed and found wanting—wanting in the fruits of a life of piety and heart service! I speak that which I do know. To be found wanting when GOD, the CREATOR of heaven and earth, weighs character, is a terrible thing. CHRIST died for every individual soul of them, that He might draw them to Himself. GOD has made every provision, bestowed every gift, even heaven itself. Having given JESUS, He withholds nothing for the benefit of man. Your mind to dwell upon these things. {Lt113-1893}

I have no doubt that the people at Auckland feel ashamed as they confess for their children quarrelsome actions that have belittled them in place of exalting them, and have made the precious truth to serve with their iniquity so that the truth is not exalted but brought down upon a level with common things. Now, if the truth had been not only professed, but believed and practiced, there would have been many souls brought to a knowledge of the truth. It is a terrible, terrible crime brought upon the soul to know the truth and not bring it into the life and sanctify the character. I fear that many, very many, will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and be pronounced wanting, when the judgment shall sit and the books be opened, and every man judged according to the deeds done. Oh, what fearful responsibilities rest upon every one of us who have the light, the knowledge of truth, and yet practice something entirely opposite of truth. Oh, that every professed disciple would be a true, sincere doer of the WORDS OF CHRIST. What an influence would go forth from every soul, what power would be seen in the influence they exert! {Lt144-1893}

By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned; therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of GOD: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire. Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty; thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee. Thou hast defiled thy SANCTUARIES by the multitude of thine iniquities, but the iniquity of thy traffic; therefore I will bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror and never shalt thou be any more.” {Lt60-1893}

But I tell you to build your holy faith on it, because it is the everlasting WORD of JEHOVAH. As John has a view of the people of GOD, he says, “Here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.” “And the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” Every one has his eye directed to the SANCTUARY where the COMMANDMENTS OF GOD are. Right over the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT is the MERCY SEAT. Written over the THRONE of GOD is His bow of promise. Why, the commandment-keeping people, they shall not perish, but have everlasting life. Here is the bow of promise. GOD has covenanted, and He will be with His people. How dare any give the trumpet an uncertain sound, as they do when they say Sunday is the SABBATH, when GOD has not given them one syllable to say so? But He says, “I will not alter nor change the thing that has gone out of my mouth.” {Ms11-1893}

But if the managers turn heartlessly away from these individual cases because of prejudice, or because of their own un-CHRISTLIKE traits of character which would lead to indifference and neglect, the LORD will in the book of His remembrance trace their names, and there will be written in distinct clear lines, Weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. This will be a terrible sentence passed against any case. {Ms32-1893}

As a people we claim to have advanced light, believing in the divine claims of the LAW OF GOD, and if those HOLY PRECEPTS are written in the heart they will produce a holy life and a godly conversation. The wisdom and authority of the DIVINE LAW are supreme. “I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them.” Hebrews 10:16. The truth brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul brings every thought into subjection to the obedience of CHRIST. The LORD has a controversy with His people. The selfishness and pride which are cherished in the members of the church are manifest in His sight and are an offence to Him. {Ms76-1893}

Of the world today GOD says, “Woe to her that is filthy and polluted, to the oppressing city! She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the LORD; she drew not near to her GOD. Her princes within her are roaring lions; her judges are evening wolves; they gnaw not the bones till tomorrow. Her prophets are light and treacherous persons: her priests have polluted the SANCTUARY, they have done violence to the law. {Ms103-1893}

To be a Christian requires more than a profession of faith. There must be an earnest effort to conquer through the grace freely given of GOD. All things around us must be made to be helps to growth in grace and the knowledge of CHRIST. Satan, the great rebel, is ever seeking to entice us to sin against GOD. He will introduce false imaginings, and sway the understanding against the revealed will of GOD, the lower passions against purity and self-denial, the independent judgment against GOD’S decisions, the wisdom from beneath against the wisdom from above. But the HOLY SPIRIT has come into the world to subdue all things unto himself, and shall GOD’S WILL be put in the background, and man’s will be held as supreme? Can man’s will be the controlling power in GOD’S great contest for the recovery of his own?–No, for those who are laborers together with GOD must have the mind of CHRIST, and work with pen and voice in the SPIRIT OF CHRIST to meet wrong tendencies, to correct errors, that have been coming in among us. The truth must no longer be kept in the outer court, but be brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. The religion of CHRIST requires not only the putting away of pride, malice, covetousness, injustice, but the cultivation of the precious graces of humility, unselfishness, kindness, love, generosity, and nobility of soul. The Christian should be constantly aspiring, pressing on from grace to grace, from faith to a greater faith, from glory to a greater glory. {RH, January 24, 1893 par. 15}

O that this experience might be understood in all our ranks! Were children and parents converted, and did they but unite in using all their intrusted talents for the MASTER, and by using them double them, what a work might be done. Never was there a time in the history of the world when there was a more urgent demand for workers than at present. The seeds of truth are to be sown, and the reapers are to follow after to gather in the sheaves. If the members of all our churches did but have the love of CHRIST, and the love for souls which his indwelling presence would impart, they would be aggressive workers, and would lay aside their busy activities upon unimportant things, and would put out to interest their talents, and invest in that which would bring treasure throughout ETERNAL ages. In the service of the MASTER, they would have increased strength and light. O then, why not study as to how you may reach souls who are out of the ARK of safety? Let your work be proportionate to your advantages and privileges, and trade on the talents you have at your command, and you will have a living experience in the things of GOD. Some excuse themselves, saying they do not know how to do the kind of work that is called for in the missionary. You ought to have known how to do the work from the very beginning of your religious life. Will you be content to rest in ignorance and indifference? Will you venture to be a slothful servant to the end of the chapter? Or will you now seek most earnestly after GOD, and know what it is to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the SON OF MAN, and become laborers together with GOD? “Ye are GOD’S husbandry, ye are GOD’S building.” You must render an account to GOD as to how you build; for every provision has been made that you may be successful in your work. Will he who with his divine finger drew the boundaries of Judea, who designated the exact spot where the temple should stand, who wrought out designs for the Jewish church and for the service of the SANCTUARY, leave his people, his chosen people, who KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, to a chance experience, to accident, to stumble along in darkness? Shall those to whom he has committed most precious light, to whom he has intrusted the third angel’s message, have less of his providential leading than had his ancient people? {RH, February 21, 1893 par. 10}

GOD has given the light of truth to his church, and the remedy for sin must be presented to the sin-sick world, whose inhabitants are perishing in their iniquity and ignorance. GOD expects his church to discipline and fit its members for the work of enlightening the world. But let no one feel that because he is not educated, he cannot be expected to take part in the work. GOD has a work for you to do. He has given to every man his work. You can search the SCRIPTURES for yourself. “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” The prayer of the sincere heart offered in faith will be heard in heaven. It may not be grammatical; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the SANCTUARY where JESUS ministers, and he will present it to the FATHER with the fragrant INCENSE of his own perfection, without one awkward, stammering word, graceful and perfect through his merit; for his righteousness refines and ennobles it, and makes it acceptable before the FATHER. The LORD accepts the prayer of the sincere heart, and will answer it out of his abundant fullness. Fervent piety, sincerity of heart, contrition of soul, are grateful to GOD. Sincerity is the essential necessity of prayer. This with uncouth language and imperfect utterance is far more acceptable to GOD if it is the best that the suppliant can offer, than the perfectly worded, elegantly uttered prayer that is offered from a self-sufficient, self-important, Pharisaical heart. {RH, February 28, 1893 par. 8} {OW, December 1, 1909 par. 9}

The LAW of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul.” The LORD JESUS weighs men in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY, and gives them credit as far as their practice of the great standard of righteousness will justify. {RH, March 28, 1893 par. 3}

Those who flatter themselves that they can be Christians, and yet not be sharers of CHRIST’S labor and sacrifice, are under a deception that if not broken, will prove fatal to the soul. The LORD has given many warnings to arouse them to see their danger. The words of the prophet Malachi concerning the matter of giving, have a special reference to our own time: “The LORD, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to HIS TEMPLE, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap.” The coming of CHRIST which is here referred to is not his second advent to this earth, but his coming to the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the SANCTUARY in heaven. Thus the message is especially to us, who are living in the time of the judgment. {RH, May 9, 1893 par. 8} {Ms99-1893}

The offerings that are the fruit of self-denial prompted by love are represented by the words spoken by GOD to Cornelius: “Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before GOD.” Who does not desire such memorials–deeds which are before GOD as a voice speaking in behalf of the human agent, keeping our names fresh and fragrant in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY? {RH, May 16, 1893 par. 9}

We cannot plead that we have less light than had GOD’S ancient people; for we have the truth, and the light that was given to them, and it has come down to us as an hereditary trust, to be given to all peoples and tongues. We cannot plead that we have less light than had the Jewish nation, who, because they were not doers of the word, became an astonishment and a reproach before the world, because they knew not the time of their visitation. Can we expect that the LORD will favor us, and establish us as a praise in the earth, if we are not doers of HIS WORD? Can we expect that the LORD will always heap privileges upon us, simply because in the past we have been exalted to heaven, as was Capernaum? When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, and every man shall receive according as his works have been, who will presume to plead that they have done many acceptable things that should balance their past in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY? “Be not deceived; GOD is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to the flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the SPIRIT, shall of the SPIRIT reap life everlasting.” {RH, July 11, 1893 par. 3}

Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces. Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for GOD is with us. For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, a confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY. {RH, September 19, 1893 par. 2}

If those who are engaged in the work of GOD are Christians individually, their works will reveal the fact. They will present CHRIST to those with whom they come in contact. Teachers in SABBATH school will not occupy the time in unimportant matters, for they will realize that every moment is golden, and should be employed in working with all diligence in the garden of the LORD. The work of CHRIST in the SANCTUARY above, presenting his own blood each moment before the MERCY SEAT, as he makes intercession for us, should have its full impression upon the heart, that we may realize the worth of each moment. JESUS ever liveth to make intercession for us; but one moment carelessly spent can never be recovered. Let teachers and pupils consider this great fact that CHRIST ceases not to engage in his solemn work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and if you wear CHRIST’S yoke, if you lift CHRIST’S burden, you will be engaged in a work of like character with that of your Living Head. {SSW, October 1, 1893 par. 3}

As a member of the human family he was mortal, but as GOD he was a fountain of life to the world. He could have withstood the advances of death and refused to come under its dominion, but voluntarily he laid down his life that he might bring life and immortality to light. He bore the sin of the world, endured the penalty, yielded up his life as a sacrifice, that man should not ETERNALly die. Contrast his suffering and humiliation with the riches of his glory, with the wealth of praise pouring forth from immortal tongues, with the anthems of adoration, with the homage of millions of holy angels in the heights of the SANCTUARY, and seek to comprehend what manner of love inspired the heart of JESUS. {ST, February 27, 1893 par. 3}

The LAW OF GOD is inexorable, and abates not a claim upon any human soul. It holds to its demands upon every sinner, and makes manifest his need of penitence for sin, of faith in a crucified and risen SAVIOUR. It daily urges upon him the necessity of cooperation with JESUS CHRIST, that he may be found guiltless through the merits of his substitute and surety. In the judgment you will think it has indeed been at your soul’s peril that you have turned from light and evidence, that you have educated the mind to cast contempt upon the LAMB OF GOD which taketh away the sins of the world. A faithful record is made of the thoughts, words, and deeds of every soul, and they are weighed in the golden balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. GOD is not to be trifled with. In the parable of the talents, he who hid his LORD’S money, and returned it to him without usury, is termed “wicked and slothful.” {YI, June 8, 1893 par. 2}

The other one whom GOD would have used as his agent, in every respect stood in as favorable a position as did his brother worker; but how different is the result of his life. He does not look upon himself as amenable to GOD for his time and his influence. He does not study to show himself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, but neglects to look to GOD for wisdom and grace that he may discern and resist every temptation, however disguised it may come to him. He does not think that it is appropriate for him to live a life of penitence, to exercise faith, to render obedience, to be holy in all manner of conduct. He does not discern that a life of faithfulness to GOD in every item of his work, will finally work for him a character fitted for heaven through the grace of CHRIST, so richly to be imparted to those who work for him. But he neglects all the precious provisions of the GRACE OF GOD, and becomes guilty before heaven. It is impossible for one who has only a meager knowledge of GOD and of JESUS CHRIST whom he hath sent, to represent GOD correctly, or to wage the Christian warfare, gaining victories over temptation to indifference and indolence. He is purposeless, and that which he might have done with his original talent is left undone; and when he is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, the verdict is passed, “Weighed and found wanting.” He is held accountable for all that a true Christian might have done with his intrusted talent. But because he had no realization of his responsibility, he frittered away his time, used his holidays for the gratification of self, and instead of training his powers to serve the noblest uses in becoming a missionary for GOD, in speaking to his associates and winning them from sin to GOD, he failed to represent the interests of his MASTER, and his light did not shine forth in good works to the world. The truth that is not permitted to work sanctification in the life, works out a savor of death unto death. How did this soul become released from the claims of GOD, that he might venture to do his own will, as if GOD had given him life to fritter away as a long holiday? It was the neglect of GOD’S GREAT LOVE, his failure to meet the wise design of his REDEEMER, that separated him from HIS HEAVENLY FATHER; for when GOD cannot use a soul as his human agent to glorify his name by the salvation of others, he terms him an unprofitable servant, whose influence is not of a character to gather with CHRIST. Young friends, what course are you pursuing? Will you be among the class who are called wicked and slothful servants, or among those who are invited into the joy of their LORD, because they are true and faithful through the grace of CHRIST? {YI, June 8, 1893 par. 7}

The youth are now deciding their own ETERNAL destiny, and I would appeal to you to consider the commandment to which GOD has annexed such a promise, “that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee.” Children, do you desire ETERNAL life? Then respect and honor your parents. Do not wound and grieve their hearts, and cause them to spend sleepless nights in anxiety and distress over your case. If you have sinned in not rendering love and obedience to them, begin now to redeem the past. You cannot afford to take any other course; for it means to you the loss of ETERNAL life. The Heart-searcher knows what is your attitude toward your parents; for he is weighing moral character in the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. O, confess your neglect of your parents, confess your indifference toward them, and your contempt of GOD’S holy commandment. Give your heart to GOD, and submit your will to the will of CHRIST. The hearts of your parents have been drawn out in tender sympathy toward you, and can you return their love with cold ingratitude? They love your souls, they want you to be saved; but have you not often despised their counsel, and done your own will, your own way? Have you not followed your own independent judgment, when you knew that such a stubborn course would not meet the approval of GOD? Many fathers and mothers have gone down broken-hearted to the grave, because of the ingratitude, the lack of respect, shown them by their children. O my young friends, be not among the number of those who cause grief to father and mother, who are workers of iniquity, and who know not what it is to have the tender SPIRIT OF CHRIST. Pray earnestly that you may be enabled by the grace of JESUS, who was subject unto his parents, to keep GOD’S commandment with promise, “that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee.” {YI, June 22, 1893 par. 8}

CHRIST is still our great HIGH PRIEST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and we may yet have faith in CHRIST. We may repent of our sins. JESUS says, “Ye believe in GOD, believe also in me.” Every provision has been made to meet the needs of our SPIRITUAL and our moral nature. GOD IS LOVE, and he cares for us. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him. Light and immortality are brought to light through the LORD JESUS CHRIST. JESUS has said that he has set before us an open door, and no man can shut it. The open door is before us, and through the grace of CHRIST, beams of merciful light stream forth from the gates ajar. {YI, December 14, 1893 par. 4}

But “let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” Many are blinded to their true condition. They believe that they are in favour with GOD, that they are rich and increased in goods, and have need of nothing. But when the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, and every man shall receive according as his works have been, will they venture to plead that they have done many good works, that should balance the past in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY?–No; for they are SPIRITUALLY wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. The TRUE WITNESS says to such, “I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see.” {BEcho, February 26, 1894 par. 6}

Many who read this account fail to comprehend its significance. It means that in behalf of humanity the prayer of CHRIST cleaved its way through the hellish shadow of Satan, and reached to the very SANCTUARY, the very THRONE of GOD. That prayer was for us; the answer was for us, it testifies that you are accepted in the BELOVED. That very prayer that entered heaven, bears upward your prayers, my prayers, and the prayers of every soul that comes to GOD with a hungering and thirsting after righteousness. The merit of JESUS, His righteousness, gives fragrance to our prayers as holy INCENSE that ascends to GOD. {BEcho, November 12, 1894 par. 8}

Nearly all persons can speak loud enough to be heard in ordinary conversation, and why should not the same voice and talent be used when they are called upon to bear testimony or offer prayer? When speaking of heavenly and divine things, why not speak in distinct tones, in a manner that will make it manifest that you know what you are talking about, and are not ashamed to show your colors? Why not pray as though you had a conscience void of offense, and could come to the THRONE OF GRACE in humility and yet with holy boldness, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting? Do not bow down and cover up your face as if there were something that you desired to conceal; but lift up your eyes toward the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where CHRIST your MEDIATOR stands before the FATHER to present your prayers as fragrant INCENSE, mingled with his own merit and spotless righteousness. You are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock, and you are assured that you will not come in vain. JESUS says “Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.” He illustrates the willingness of GOD to bless by presenting before us the willingness of a father to grant the request of his child. He asks, “If a SON ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone, or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your HEAVENLY FATHER give the HOLY SPIRIT to them that ask him? [Luke 11:9-13.] {CE 127.2 1894}

It is evident that he walks with GOD; that he has been with JESUS and learned of him. He has brought the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul; it is to him a living reality, and he presents the truth in the demonstration of the SPIRIT and of power. The people hear the joyful sound. GOD speaks to their hearts through the man consecrated to his service. As the worker lifts up JESUS through the SPIRIT, he becomes really eloquent. He is earnest and sincere, and is beloved by those for whom he labors. {CE 142.1 1894}

O, I so much wish that the LORD of heaven would open many eyes that are now blind, that they might see themselves as GOD sees them, and give to them a sense of the work to be done in the fields of labor. But I have no hope that all the appeals I make will aveil, unless the LORD speaks to the soul and writes his requirements upon the tablets of the heart. Cannot every living human agent have a high and elevated sense of what it means to have a large and important field of home missionary work appointed to him, without the necessity of going to far-off lands? And while some must proclaim the message of mercy to them that are afar off, there are many who have to proclaim the message to those who are nigh. Our schools are to be educating schools to qualify youth to become missionaries both by precept and example. Let the one who is acting in the capacity of teacher ever bear in mind that these children and youth are the purchase of the blood of the SON OF GOD. They must be led to believe in CHRIST as their personal SAVIOUR. The name of each separate believer is graven on the palms of his hands. The CHIEF SHEPHERD is looking down from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY upon the sheep of his pasture. “He calleth his own sheep by name and leadeth them out.” [John 10:3.] “If any man sin, we have an ADVOCATE with the FATHER, JESUS CHRIST the righteous.” [1 John 2:1.] O precious, blessed truth! He does not treat one case with indifference. {CE 158.1 1894} {Ms34-1893}

But the truth must be brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. We must by living faith grasp the arm of OMNIPOTENCE; for CHRIST has said, “Without me ye can do nothing.” But if we are laborers together with GOD, we shall be able to do all things. We shall be tested, we shall be proved to see what kind of material we have brought into our character building. If we have brought material into our life and character that is not of a divine order, this will be made manifest in the moral warfare in which every soul will be called upon to act a part. The truth cannot be justly sustained or defended by words that arouse the unbeliever to resistance and contention. The true spirit that controls the heart will be revealed in a company where ideas are presented that are opposed to ideas that others hold. If those who stand in defense of truth are under the control of the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, they will be calm and self-possessed, kind and courteous, and will not be betrayed into the use of harsh language. They will not be accusers of those who honestly differ from them in opinion, nor regard their own ideas as infallible, and thus be led to look upon all those who differ with them as enemies and apostates. They will not make them the subjects of jest and ridicule. {HM, August 1, 1894 par. 2}

There is another class who meet with loss because they are indolent, and spend their powers in pleasing themselves, in using their tongues, and letting their muscles rust with inaction. They waste their opportunities by inaction, and do not glorify GOD. They might do much if they would put their time and physical strength to use by acquiring means with which to place their children in favorable positions to acquire knowledge; but they would rather let them grow up in ignorance than to exercise their own GOD-given ability to do something whereby their children might be blessed with a good education. Such men and women are being weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and found wanting. {HM, October 1, 1894 par. 6}

According to your own measurement, you think that the evil things you do are small in comparison to your good actions, and that on the whole you have an average good record. But GOD does not measure the character according to a human standard. He weighs the thoughts, the motives, in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY. He that offends in one point in transgressing the law, He says, is guilty of all. The spirit and principle that causes him to be guilty in one particular would cause him to fail should temptation overtake him on any other precept. He would break the commandments of the law just as readily on the second instance as on the first. {Lt19-1894}

Give to JESUS your devotion where He is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, seek for the HOLY SPIRIT as HIS REPRESENTATIVE wherever his people bow to worship Him. It becomes us to know more of JESUS, by an experimental knowledge, as a personal SAVIOUR. We should be gathering up every ray of divine light, not looking to old Jerusalem where CHRIST was once, but to the NEW JERUSALEM where he now is. Let us be gathering from the tree of life, that GOD has planted, leaves that shall be for the healing of the nations, and fruit, precious, lifegiving fruit as food to the soul. {Lt44-1894}

No institution will bear the divine signet unless it is managed according to the directions given by JESUS CHRIST. If in any work there is a deviation from the great standard of righteousness, even in a jot or tittle, that work is registered in the books of heaven, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting. {Lt45-1894}

He who has become a partaker of the divine nature knows that his citizenship is above. He catches the inspiration from the SPIRIT OF CHRIST. His soul is hid with CHRIST in GOD. Such a man Satan can no longer employ as his instrumentality to insinuate himself into the very SANCTUARY of GOD, to defile the TEMPLE OF GOD. He gains victories at every step. He is filled with ennobling thoughts. He regards every human being as precious, because CHRIST has died for every soul. {Lt58-1894}

The path of obedience to GOD is as a light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Follow step after step in the path of duty. Steep places may have to be climbed, but go forward in the path of humility, of faith and self-denial, leaving the clouds of doubt behind you. Sorrow not in a hopeless way, for the living need your care and love. You have enlisted in the LORD’S army; be brave soldiers of JESUS CHRIST. Let words of penitence and grateful praise come up before GOD as sweet INCENSE in His HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {Lt65a-1894}

The prophet Daniel interpreted the dream to the king, and he added the solemn admonition, “Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility.” This warning from GOD was passed by as a commonplace occurrence. For twelve months the king was tested and proved. During this time his actions ere weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN. {Lt71-1894}

A certain man asked of CHRIST, “What shall I do to inherit ETERNAL life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” This is the great test for every soul, for every character. It points directly to the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul’s affections, and claims for GOD the first place, the first thoughts, the first action. The claims of GOD are to take no second place. {Lt78-1894}

The church is not to fold her hands in security, and say, “I am rich, and increased with goods, and in need of nothing.” The followers of CHRIST are not to trust to past experience and fail to go on to perfection. In so doing the church will meet with defeat and ruin. Upon what shall she depend? Wholly and entirely upon GOD. We are to look upward, the eye of faith is to penetrate the hellish shadow that Satan casts athwart our pathway and reach into the SANCTUARY above, within the HOLY OF HOLIES, where CHRIST our ADVOCATE is pleading in our behalf. Look unto JESUS. By faith grasp the spirit of His intercessions. He says, “I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands.” Ask in faith, and He will pour down upon the thirsty soul the HOLY SPIRIT in its plentitude, in its all reviving power, to teach and to sanctify the receiver. Believe, children, only believe. {Lt89-1894}

Before the cross the sinner sees his unlikeness of character to CHRIST. He sees the terrible consequences of transgression; he hates the sin that he has practiced, and he lays hold upon JESUS by living faith. He has judged his position of uncleanness in the light of the presence of GOD and the heavenly intelligence. He has measured it by the standard of the cross. He has weighed it in the balances of the SANCTUARY. The purity of CHRIST has revealed to him his own impurity in its odious colors. He turns from the defiling sin; he looks to JESUS and lives. {Lt102-1894}

It is through the blessing of GOD bestowed upon the unselfish and benevolent soul, that he has wherewith to bestow gifts to help the needy, and to bring tithes and offerings to carry the gospel into regions beyond. Nothing can be given that has not first been received from our HEAVENLY FATHER. Will the Christian world ever learn that the soul must be refined from the dross of selfishness before CHRIST can be represented in character? Can anything be withheld by those who know the blessedness of giving? Shall it be said of professed believers in JESUS CHRIST that he is ashamed to call them brethren? Selfishness, covetousness, pride, and vanity misrepresent CHRIST to the world. The name of Christian is applied by the world to men and women who are not so named in the books of heaven. On the record above it is written of them, “Weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting.” The worldly spirit that leads the professed people of GOD to misappropriate their LORD’S goods, causes them to bring reproach upon the name of him who has exercised boundless beneficence toward the sons of men. The character of GOD is falsified before the world by those who withhold their LORD’S intrusted means from benevolent purposes; for they do not represent him who “so loved the world, that he gave his ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Melbourne, Australia. {MM, November 1, 1894 par. 8}

Brethren and sisters, carry a solemn weight today. GOD is on the campground, JESUS is on the campground. He is observing all outward works and the inward SANCTUARY of the soul. We do want to see the children enjoying the LOVE OF GOD, enjoying the SERVICE OF GOD. We want to hear their happy voices telling what CHRIST has done for them. We do not want them merely to have a profession. We want them to have an inward work of grace in their hearts. And now I do beseech of you, make this a day such as you have never had before in your life, a day of consecration, a day when your sins shall be confessed together and forsaken forever through JESUS CHRIST. He will give you help if you will come to Him sinful and polluted; He will take you; He will wash you; He will CLEANSE you. The question is asked, “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?” It is an impossibility. He never can do it, and the sinner can never change. It is GOD, it is JESUS CHRIST, that can take away the stained and the spotted character. {Ms48-1894}

Now how many pass over this. They read it, but they do not take in its significance. It means everything to us; it means that the prayer of CHRIST should cleave its way through the hellish shadow of Satan, and reach to the very SANCTUARY, the very THRONE of GOD. That prayer was for us. That answer was for us, that you are accepted in the BELOVED. That very prayer that entered heaven, it carries your prayers, my prayers, the prayers of every soul that ascend to GOD with a hungering and a thirsting after SPIRITUALITY and righteousness: This prayer ascends, and the merits of JESUS CHRIST, His righteousness, gives fragrance to that prayer as holy INCENSE that ascends to GOD. This is the very work that has been going on all through from that time to the present. The weakest child of GOD, the most oppressed, the most suffering, why [he] [has] in JESUS CHRIST hope. The faith of CHRIST bringeth infinite power. They may lay hold upon the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust; so not a soul needs to faint, not a soul needs to be discouraged. {Ms86-1894}

A most serious and terrible punishment was visited upon these young men who dared to enter into the presence of the LORD in an intoxicated condition. They had been solemnly consecrated to the service of the SANCTUARY, and it was necessary to make an example of them before the children of Israel. But shall this history of GOD’S dealing with them be passed over by us, as though it was a matter in which we have no concern? The LORD has manifested his displeasure with a course of this kind, and sets before us the principle which he would have us heed. Every one who is connected with the SERVICE OF GOD is in sacred office, and the words that JESUS CHRIST spoke from the pillar of cloud and fire, are to be regarded and put into practice by us. “And the LORD said unto Moses, Go down, charge the people, lest they break through unto the LORD to gaze, and many of them perish. And let the priests also, which come near to the LORD, sanctify themselves, lest the LORD break forth upon them.” {RH, May 15, 1894 par. 4}

There will be those, who, after a feeble resistance, will yield one point of truth after another. The reason they will do this is that they have never valued truth as they should. They have never enthroned the truth in the INNER SANCTUARY of the heart, and they have not been sanctified through the truth. They will give way to the powers that be, and render obedience to men rather than to GOD. But those who stand firm to the truth will answer those who demand their surrender to the traditions of men and their compliance with the custom of the majority, that they owe allegiance to a higher authority than that of the State. They will declare that they cannot set aside the SABBATH of the great CREATOR for a man-made institution. They will declare that as partakers of the divine nature, they are placed in a position where the ordinances of men, when conflicting with the commands of GOD, are of no force nor value. Those who are empowered with authority will say to them as they said to Paul, “Thou art beside thyself;” and when persuasion and entreaty are in vain, heavier pressure will be brought to bear, and the steadfastness of CHRIST’S followers will be tested to the uttermost. Every conceivable device that men and demons can invent will be brought to bear against them to overcome them; but those who have learned how to cling to GOD will not abate one jot or tittle of truth. {RH, October 23, 1894 par. 5}

The SABBATH commandment is placed in the very BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE, amid the unchangeable precepts of JEHOVAH. And yet from many pulpits of our land a contemptuous cry is raised against the SABBATH instituted by the LORD GOD of heaven, and it is stigmatized as “THE OLD JEWISH SABBATH.” Let all who are seeking for truth remember that the SABBATH was instituted in Eden before there was a Jew in existence, and that the SAVIOUR said, “The SABBATH was made for man.” The FOURTH COMMANDMENT was spoken with the other nine of GOD’S moral precepts, amid the thunders and grandeur of Mount Sinai, and in the HOLY OF HOLIES in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY above, is the ARK OF GOD. It is called the “ARK OF THE TESTAMENT,” and under its cover,–the MERCY SEAT,–are the TEN COMMANDMENTS that were written with the FINGER OF GOD. {ST, January 8, 1894 par. 2}

Just as you conduct yourself in your home life, you are registered in the books of heaven. He who would become a saint in heaven, must first become a saint in his own family. If fathers and mothers are true Christians in the family, they will be useful members of the church, and will be able to conduct affairs in the church and in society after the same manner in which they conduct their family concerns. Parents, let not your religion be simply a profession, but let it become a reality. When truth is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, it has a wonderful and powerful effect upon the life. It will expel the love of self, indulgence of self, hastiness and petulance of temper, sensitiveness, and pride. These are the things that drive CHRIST from the heart, and when they are manifested in the life, the professors of religion cannot experience that noble joy that makes the servant of CHRIST free. He who professes to love the truth, and yet does not bring it into practical life, is bearing a heavy yoke. He admits the principles of truth to be right, and yet fails to carry them out in his actions, and thus cuts off his influence. He is subject to various caprices of his own natural character, and robs GOD of the service for which he was purchased by the precious BLOOD OF CHRIST. {ST, May 7, 1894 par. 5} {Ms89-1894}

The confederacy of evil will not stand. The LORD says: “Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces. . . . Take counsel together, and it shall come to naught; speak the word, and it shall not stand; for GOD is with us. For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY.” {ST, May 28, 1894 par. 11}

In holy vision John was taken into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He says: “The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT.” “And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the TABERNACLE of the testimony in heaven was opened.” The SANCTUARY that Moses was commanded to make was to be after the pattern of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. In the ARK were placed the TEN COMMANDMENTS which had been written by the FINGER OF GOD. The law that was placed in the ARK on earth was a copy of the law that is contained in the ARK OF THE TESTAMENT in heaven, and the precepts of JEHOVAH are immutable. The TEN COMMANDMENTS constitute the moral standard of character. GOD requires on the part of man perfect conformity to HIS LAW, and a curse is pronounced against everyone who continues not in all things written in the law to do them. {ST, June 11, 1894 par. 10}

Compassed with temptation as you are, nothing will be sufficient as a safeguard against evil except the indwelling of CHRIST in your hearts through faith in his righteousness. You must practise his virtues, making him your daily pattern. When truth is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, it sanctifies the whole character. You need to cherish the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. As you believe in CHRIST, making him your personal SAVIOUR, you cast your helpless soul upon him, believing that he pardons your past transgressions. Then you must learn to look continually to JESUS, the author and finisher of your faith, “who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the THRONE of GOD.” {YI, January 18, 1894 par. 10}

When JESUS is comprehended by faith, and brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, the HOLY SPIRIT will mold and fashion the character after the likeness of CHRIST. Lessons will then be daily learned in the SCHOOL OF CHRIST. The character of the tree will be known by its fruits. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” The Christian will shine as a light amid the moral darkness of the world. He will be tender of heart, and considerate of the feelings of others. The WORD OF GOD instructs us to be “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves,” and it is the duty of every Christian to bring himself under discipline to the rules of the BIBLE, that he may be “a workman that needeth not to be ashamed.” The work coming from the hands of those who do this, will be as lasting as eternity. It will not be mingled with a shred of selfishness, and it will not be loose, careless work. {YI, September 20, 1894 par. 10}

The vision of Isaiah represents the position of GOD’S people in the last days, when they are privileged to see by faith the work going on in the SANCTUARY above. JESUS is seated with His FATHER on the THRONE, high and lifted up, and all who come to GOD through Him will find access into the INNER SANCTUARY. The view of the GLORY OF GOD in His excellent majesty prepares the heart to humility; and the very work done for Isaiah will be done for all who humble themselves and acknowledge their sins; for the bow of promise is above the THRONE. {BEcho, September 9, 1895 par. 13}

Said CHRIST, “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” If we lay up our treasure in heaven, our hearts will be in heaven; if our treasure is on the earth, our hearts will be set on things of the earth, worrying about losses, and anxious about gains and riches. CHRIST’S lesson in regard to the widow’s two mites shows that the small offerings of the poor, given from a heart of love, are as essential as the larger donations of the rich. They move forward the car of salvation; for they form a steady stream, and are accompanied by prayers of humble faith. And as in the balances of the SANCTUARY the offering is estimated in accordance with the spirit of love and sacrifice that prompted it, the promises will just as surely be fulfilled to the liberal poor man who has little to offer, but gives that little freely, as to the wealthy man who gives largely of his abundance. {BEcho, December 9, 1895 par. 5}

This is the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, and our ADVOCATE is standing before the FATHER, pleading as our INTERCESSOR. In place of wrapping about us the garments of self-righteousness, we should be found daily humbling ourselves before GOD, confessing our own individual sins, seeking the pardon of our transgressions, and cooperating with CHRIST in the work of preparing our souls to reflect the divine image. Unless we enter the SANCTUARY above, and unite with CHRIST in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, we shall be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and shall be pronounced wanting. This is our day of grace. {Lt71-1895}

But I am not able to write as I would, though my soul is alive to this subject. Then I know that GOD in all His compassion is beholding and seeing what His people will do for the uplifting of the oppressed, in this case so urgent. The angelic hosts are waiting to use men to interpose and press back the power of darkness. If they do not walk in the light GOD has given them and arouse to action, earnest and determined, GOD will hold men accountable. It will be better for them if they had never been born. Weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting! But each of us has a part to act, and there must be no betrayal of the HOLY TRUTH committed to us. We are a spectacle unto the world, to angels and to men. Consecrate all you have to GOD. {Lt88a-1895}

Do not speak one cheap word, or perform an unseemly act. Let the thought, “Thou GOD seest me,” be ever in your mind. Never by word or action place yourself in opposition to orderly, cleanly habits. Let all your influence be on the right side; respect authority, and practice undeviating obedience to home rules; seek to make home as pleasant and cheerful, as holy and happy, as it is possible. Everyone should feel a sacred responsibility to act his part in making his abiding place a home where the honor of GOD shall dwell. The home should be a SANCTUARY where GOD is welcomed and worshiped. {Lt96-1895}

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the HOUSE OF GOD; and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the GOSPEL OF GOD? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?” “And the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house.” {Ms3-1895}

Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, were not careful to cherish a high sense of the sacredness of the SANCTUARY service. They “took either of them his censor, and put fire therein, and put INCENSE thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which He commanded them not. And there went out fires from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” Mark the following words: “Then Moses said to Aaron, This is that the LORD spake saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified.” Will we consider this? Special directions were given that none should show signs of mourning. There was to be no uncovering of the head, no rending of the garments. Not a semblance of reflection should be cast upon GOD, whose judgment had fallen upon these desecraters of holy things. {Ms29-1895}

He who neglects the least duty in the LORD’S moral vineyard will be registered as lacking in the books of heaven, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting. GOD has given to every man his work, and he who neglects his work inflicts injury on the cause of CHRIST. We are to be followers of that which is good, to show ourselves approved unto GOD, workmen that need not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD OF TRUTH. This is applicable, not only to ministers who preach the WORD, but to every soul who believes in CHRIST. {Ms38-1895}

Many believe JESUS to be the world’s REDEEMER; but is He your REDEEMER? Is He your personal SAVIOUR? Until the truth is brought into the soul-SANCTUARY, exploring, searching out the defiling things which spoil the life and character, that soul will never see the kingdom of GOD. For “the natural man receiveth not the things of the SPIRIT OF GOD, for they are foolishness to him: neither can he know them, because they are SPIRITUALLY discerned.” {Ms64-1895}

CHRIST was the embodiment of truth and holiness. He it was who had stood in the councils of GOD, and dwelt in the INNERMOST SANCTUARY of the ETERNAL. He knew whereof He spoke. He was presenting to them the truth of the highest order, revealing to men the infinite Mind, giving to men the words of eternal life. He was revealing to them the character of the FATHER, but the men who stood high in knowledge and position, who claimed to possess superior SPIRITUAL understanding, failed to comprehend the knowledge that JESUS came to impart. They failed to grasp with their human understanding that which had been from everlasting, and was known to the FATHER and to the SON. SPIRITUAL things are SPIRITUALLY discerned, and, lacking the SPIRIT OF GOD, they were left in the blindness of darkness. Refusing the light of heaven, “because that when they knew GOD, they glorified him not as GOD, neither were thankful,” they “became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” {Ms65-1895} {ST, April 25, 1895 par. 11}

Are we Christians in deed and in truth? or are we such in name only? Christians are those who are growing up into a holy temple in the LORD. But “what agreement hath the TEMPLE OF GOD with idols? for ye are the temple of the LIVING GOD; as GOD hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their GOD, and they shall be my people.” This represents a constant growth in Christian character, growth in SPIRITUAL-mindedness. The CHURCH OF CHRIST in the world is to be a great power, and a name and praise in all the earth. JESUS has done everything to accomplish this. Now there is need of earnest, deep, sincere efforts to redeem the past unfaithfulness. Time, precious time, has been lost in wanderings and backslidings from GOD. Every character is to be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY; if the moral character and SPIRITUAL advancement do not correspond with the opportunities and blessings, “wanting” is written against the name. {RH, March 19, 1895 par. 12}

He cried also in mine ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that have charge over the city to draw near, even every man with his destroying weapon in his hand. And, behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the north, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer’s inkhorn by his side; and they went in, and stood beside the BRAZEN ALTAR. And the glory of the GOD of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer’s inkhorn by his side; and the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in mine hearing, Go ye after him through the city, and smite; let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity; slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women; but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at MY SANCTUARY. Then they began at the ancient men [men of responsibility] which were before the house.” {RH, May 21, 1895 par. 4}

The oil so much needed by those who are represented as foolish virgins, is not something to be put on the outside. They need to bring the truth into the SANCTUARY of the soul, that it may CLEANSE, refine, and sanctify. It is not theory that they need; it is the sacred teachings of the BIBLE, which are not uncertain, disconnected doctrines, but are living truths, that involve ETERNAL interests that center in CHRIST. In him is the complete system of divine truth. The salvation of the soul, through faith in CHRIST, is the ground and pillar of the truth. Those who exercise true faith in CHRIST make it manifest by holiness of character, by obedience to the LAW OF GOD. They realize that the truth as it is in JESUS reaches heaven, and compasses eternity. They understand that the Christian’s character should represent the character of CHRIST, and be full of grace and truth. To them is imparted the oil of grace, which sustains a never-failing light. The HOLY SPIRIT in the heart of the believer, makes him complete in CHRIST. It is not a decided evidence that a man or a woman is a Christian because he manifests deep emotion when under exciting circumstances. He who is CHRISTLIKE has a deep, determined, persevering element in his soul, and yet has a sense of his own weakness, and is not deceived and misled by the Devil, and made to trust in himself. He has a knowledge of the WORD OF GOD, and knows that he is safe only as he places his hand in the hand of JESUS CHRIST, and keeps firm hold upon him. {RH, September 17, 1895 par. 8}

GOD weighs actions, and every one who has been unfaithful in his stewardship, who has failed to remedy evils which it was in his power to remedy, will be of no esteem in the courts of heaven. Those who are indifferent to the wants of the needy will be counted unfaithful stewards, and will be registered as enemies of GOD and man. Those who misappropriate the means that GOD has intrusted to them to help the very ones who need their help, prove that they have no connection with CHRIST, because they fail to manifest the tenderness of CHRIST toward those who are less fortunate than themselves. As Christians, we are to manifest to the world the character of CHRIST in all the affairs of life. To be a Christian means to act in CHRIST’S stead, to represent CHRIST. We are not to seek to get rid of the responsibilities that connect us with our fellow-men. GOD has not placed us in the world simply to please and honor and glorify ourselves. The character of our Christianity is tested by the dependent ones who are around us, who are ignorant and helpless. It is not proper to pile building upon building in localities where there are abundant facilities, and neglect fields that are nigh and afar off, where there is need of starting missionary enterprises. Instead of closing our eyes and senses to the wants of those who have nothing, instead of adding more and more facilities to those that are already abundant, let us seek to see what we can do to relieve the distresses of the poor, bruised souls of the colored people. Those who are heaping advantages upon advantages where there are already more than ample facilities, are not doing a work that will strengthen men in SPIRITUALITY, and for neglecting destitute fields they are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and are found wanting. The LORD has given abundant light upon the subject of diffusing the knowledge of the truth, and no one is justified in following a selfish course. Those to whom GOD has intrusted much, who command the largest resources in doing a good work in behalf of the needy, and who yet have failed to do it, have withdrawn themselves from their own flesh, and have neglected their ministry to GOD’S purchased possession, in order to gratify their own inclination. How does GOD look upon those who have left the poor to their poverty, the ignorant to their darkness and ignorance? How does he regard those who are willing to let the lost remain the slaves of circumstances which could have been changed in such a way as to bring relief to the distressed? GOD calls upon men to become BIBLE Christians, to represent the example given them by CHRIST. Who can tell what will be the result of a self-denying, cross-bearing life? Eternity will reveal the result of following JESUS, and all will be amazed at the fruit that will be made manifest. {RH, December 10, 1895 par. 4}

If persons come to you claiming to be sanctified, and yet making void the LAW OF GOD, and teaching others that they may transgress it with impunity, their sanctification, when weighted in the balances of the SANCTUARY, has no more weight with GOD than had the long, pretentious prayers of the Pharisees. The higher the profession, the more deceptive the pretention, the more likely the unwary are to be deceived, and the greater will be the wrath of an offended GOD. Those who make high claims, and who disregard the LAW OF GOD, are registered in the books of heaven as rebels against the divine government. “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.” {ST, January 31, 1895 par. 2}

These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth: I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” JESUS takes men to the very threshold of heaven, and opens before them the SANCTUARY, flooded with the glory of the LORD of hosts, sitting upon a THRONE high and lifted up, and the train of his glory filled the temple. It has been maintained by some, both by pen and voice, that it would incapacitate human beings for conducting wisely the affairs of this life, to look upon unseen realities. It has been argued that earthly matters would seem so inferior when contrasted with heavenly things, that every thought and impulse would be engaged with the world that is to come, and that earthly affairs would be neglected. {ST, March 28, 1895 par. 4}

The mighty dealings of GOD with his people in the past are to be rehearsed for the benefit and blessing of those who follow in the faith, and through the WORD OF GOD see JESUS, their HIGH PRIEST in the SANCTUARY in heaven. The messages of John had a great influence in setting forth the fact that JESUS was the MESSIAH, the REDEEMER of the world. No one could doubt the sincerity of John, and the messages from his lips had great power in turning many to the FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST. The truths stated by John were the very message that the LORD would have him bear; but the Jews who rejected the truth were greatly annoyed at his testimony, and they thought that as long as John kept ringing his testimony in the ears of the people that JESUS was the MESSIAH, they should prevail nothing against those who had faith in JESUS whom they had crucified. Many were continually turning from their unbelief, and accepting CHRIST as the MESSIAH, and the enemies of truth declared that the testimony of John must be silenced in order that the miracles and mission of JESUS might be forgotten. They hoped to put John to death upon the false accusations of his enemies; but the LORD had his faithful witness preserved from death. Though imprisoned on the isle of Patmos for the WORD OF GOD and the TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST, he did not cease to bear witness to the truth. His was a message of joy, proclaiming the fact that CHRIST was not in the tomb, but was a risen SAVIOUR who had ascended on high, and was interceding for his people until he should return again to take them unto himself. {ST, May 23, 1895 par. 4}

But the original LAW OF GOD is safely deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and will be presented to man just as GOD engraved it on the TABLES OF STONE. To the KING on his THRONE and the humblest of his subjects, the LAW OF RIGHTEOUSNESS will constitute the standard of character, and by its precepts will every work be tried and every thought be brought into examination. The FOURTH COMMANDMENT will be found in the BOSOM OF THE DECALOGUE just as it was written by the FINGER OF GOD, and every soul who has presumed to exalt the false sabbath above the SABBATH which was sanctified and blessed and given to mankind for respect and observance, will be found out of harmony with the LAW OF GOD. GOD gave the SABBATH to be a sign between him and his people, that they might know that it was the LORD who was their sanctifier. Those who have knowingly trampled upon the true SABBATH, while they have exalted to its place a spurious institution, will have to answer for their action before the LORD who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is therein. GOD has proclaimed himself a jealous GOD. {ST, November 14, 1895 par. 7}

Not one twentieth part of the home missionary work is being done in Battle Creek that should be done to set things in order in the large business establishment of the public house. A most thorough reformation is needed at the heart of the work, and yet there is such blindness, such blindness, that men have allowed things to drift as they have. Where are the men who have the fear of GOD before them, who love GOD, who love their fellow men, who feel a tender regard for the youth, who can be trusted with the work? Where is the man who can act as president of the General Conference in its present tangled, confused, crippled condition? Any man, even though he did his very best, would now be criticized and regarded with suspicion, because the people have been educated to look to Battle Creek as the power of GOD, the SANCTUARY where dwells the presence of GOD. {Lt5-1896}

You little understand the soul’s great need and longing. Some are wrestling with doubt, almost in despair, almost hopeless. You need to understand the fourth chapter of Zechariah. The two olive trees that stand in the presence of GOD empty, through the two golden pipes, the golden oil out of themselves into the golden bowl, from which the lamps of the SANCTUARY are fed. The golden oil represents the HOLY SPIRIT. This the heavenly messengers impart to the preachers of the WORD. The ministers of righteousness are to be continually replenished, that they in turn may impart to the church, giving it greater strength and efficiency. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my SPIRIT, saith the LORD of hosts.” The LORD’S servants can obtain victories, not by mere outward manifestations, but by inward purity, by cleanness of soul, heart piety, by holiness, which is wholeness to GOD. They are dependent upon the GRACE OF GOD, represented by the HOLY oil emptied from the olive trees through the golden pipes into the golden bowl of the CANDLESTICK. {Lt61-1896}

By their words, their works, and their spirit, those who pursue such a course are making a record in the books of heaven which they will not care to meet, for GOD does not value them as they value themselves. They are abusing their probationary opportunities and are grievously neglecting the high privileges conferred upon them. Though finding nothing in the WORD OF GOD to vindicate their actions, or countenance their opinions, yet they persist in their own way. In that day, when judgment is passed upon all, the sentence will be pronounced against them, “Thou art weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and found wanting.” {Lt78-1896}

If the LORD has located His SANCTUARY at Battle Creek, and in no other place, it is right and sensible to refer all questions to that place. But we know that He presides over every portion of His moral vineyard. To every man, according to his ability, He has given work, and this work is to be done. {Lt88-1896}

The dummy of Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, with the illustrations, I received. The illustrations I could not possibly accept under any consideration. Some of them look as if prepared for a comic almanac. That any one connected with the work in Battle Creek should think it possible for me to accept these cuts is most astonishing. I dare not trust the book Life of CHRIST for them to illustrate, for I think their wisdom has departed from them. GOD commanded Moses, “Make everything according to the pattern shown thee in the mount.” Everything connected with the SANCTUARY was of the most perfect workmanship. {Lt90-1896}

Teaching the SCRIPTURES, praying in families—this is the work of an evangelist, and this work is to be mingled with your preaching. If it is omitted, preaching will be, to a great extent, a failure. You need to be jealous of yourself. You and your wife need to come close to the people by personal effort. Teach them that the LOVE OF GOD must come into the INNER SANCTUARY of the home life. If you so desire, you may have the indwelling power of the HOLY SPIRIT to help you in your work. {Lt94-1896}

Who are co-workers with GOD? Who are imbued with HIS SPIRIT? Who are working out in their lives the mission of JESUS CHRIST? All such will sit with CHRIST on His THRONE as overcomers. But all who exalt themselves, all who oppress their fellow men in any wise, do this to JESUS CHRIST, for every soul has been purchased with an infinite price, and through faith in JESUS CHRIST is capable of receiving immortality, to live through ETERNAL ages. How long will GOD bear with heartless indifference in the treatment of men toward their fellow men? We cannot determine; but that which every man sows, he will reap a harvest of the same kind. But if men sow deeds of love and compassion, words of comfort, hope, and encouragement, he will reap that which he has sown. Every deed is passing in review before GOD, every action is being weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. {Lt101-1896}

[If we can arouse the moral sensibilities of our people on the subject of temperance, a great victory will be gained.] Temperance in eating, drinking, sleeping, and dressing is one of the grand principles of the religious life. Truth brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul will guide in the treatment of the body. Nothing that concerns the health of the human agent is to be regarded with indifference. Our ETERNAL welfare depends upon the use we make during this life of our time, strength, and influence. {Lt175-1896} {6T 375.1 1901 with [] portion}

David could not understand this till he went into the SANCTUARY of GOD, and then, he says, “understood I their end.” “Surely thou didst set them in slippery places; thou castest them down to destruction. How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. As a dream when one awaketh; so, O LORD, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image. Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. So foolish was I, and ignorant; I was as a beast before thee. Nevertheless, I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by thy right hand.” “It is good for me to draw near to GOD: I have put my trust in the LORD GOD, that I may declare all thy works.” {Ms4-1896}

GOD wants all who are connected with the Sanitarium, whether as physicians, superintendents, or those officiating in any department, to be just what the BIBLE requires,–exemplary Christians. All their business transactions, whether with believers or unbelievers, should be as transparent as sunlight. The fact that one is not likely to be detected in deception or fraud, or downright murder in malpractise, does not make him less guilty in the sight of GOD. That which GOD testifies of us when character is weighed in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY will stand fast forever, unless the sad decision, “Wanting,” is changed because of soul repentance and transformation of character, and pardon is written, and the promise fulfilled, “A new heart will I give you.” There is need of an entire change in the principles that control many physicians in regard to their example as Christians. They must meet a higher standard, –the BIBLE standard. {PH066 6.2 1896}

There are many youths who possess talents, and if they were trained, they would be capable of doing a good work for the MASTER; but those who could aid them in obtaining an education, hoard up their treasures or use them simply for the gratification of themselves, and thus fail to build up the kingdom of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. How do the angels of heaven look upon the daughters of wealth and fashion who decorate themselves with costly jewels, and spend thousands of dollars in glorifying themselves? How will CHRIST judge those who make gifts to the rich, when the poor are starving around them, when men’s actions are weighed in the golden balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY? Has JESUS not said, “Know ye not that . . . ye are not your own? Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify GOD in your body, and in your spirit, which are GOD’S”? {RH, March 17, 1896 par. 3}

The rivers of blood that flowed at the harvest thanksgiving, when the sacrifices were offered in such large numbers, were meant to teach a great truth. For even the productions of the earth, the bounties provided for man’s sustenance, we are indebted to the offering of CHRIST upon the cross of Calvary. GOD teaches us that all we receive from him is the gift of redeeming love. From his instruction to Israel, he would have us learn that he has made ample provision for the poor to receive the comforts of this life, and also for the gospel to be carried to all those who are perishing in their sins. The whole SANCTUARY service was designed to impress the people with the fact that the things which GOD has set apart for himself are holy. They were ever to observe the distinction between the sacred and the common. Holy things must be kept holy. {RH, November 10, 1896 par. 12}

When GOD delivered Israel from Egypt to be a special treasure unto himself, he taught them to devote a tithe of their possessions to the service of the TABERNACLE. This was a special offering, for a special work. All that remained of their property was GOD’S, and was to be used to his glory. But the tithe was set apart for the support of those who ministered in the SANCTUARY. It was to be given from the first-fruits of all the increase, and, with gifts and offerings, it provided ample means for supporting the ministry of the gospel for that time. {RH, December 8, 1896 par. 2}

Isaiah had denounced the sin of others; but now he sees himself exposed to the same condemnation he had pronounced upon them. He had been satisfied with a cold, lifeless ceremony in his WORSHIP OF GOD. He had not known this until the vision was given him of the LORD. How little now appeared his wisdom and talents as he looked upon the sacredness and majesty of the SANCTUARY. How unworthy he was! how unfitted for sacred service! His view of himself might be expressed in the language of the apostle Paul, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” {RH, December 22, 1896 par. 3}

Harsh and unkind words, words of censure and criticism of GOD’S work and his messengers, are indulged in by those who profess to be his children. When these careless souls discern the greatness of GOD’S character, they will not mingle their spirit and attributes with his service. When our eyes look by faith into the SANCTUARY, and take in the reality, the importance and holiness, of the work there being done, everything of a selfish nature will be abhorred by us. Sin will appear as it is,–the transgression of GOD’S HOLY LAW. The ATONEMENT will be better understood; and by living, active faith, we shall see that whatever of virtue humanity possesses, it exists only in JESUS CHRIST, the world’s REDEEMER. {RH, December 22, 1896 par. 10}

The seraphim before the THRONE are so filled with reverential awe in beholding the GLORY OF GOD that they do not for an instant look upon themselves with self-complacency, or in admiration of themselves or one another. Their praise and glory are for the LORD of Hosts, who is high and lifted up, and the glory of whose train fills the temple. As they see the future, when the whole earth shall be filled with his glory, the triumphant song of praise is echoed from one to another in melodious chant, “Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of Hosts.” They are fully satisfied to glorify GOD; and in his presence, beneath his smile of approbation, they wish for nothing more. In bearing his image, in doing his service and worshiping him, their highest ambition is fully reached. {RH, December 22, 1896 par. 11}

Those who live the life of the world, though they may be looked upon as educated and refined, manifest that they are selfish, that the words of CHRIST do not abide in them. They separate themselves from the needy and distressed, and use the gifts which GOD has intrusted to them to bless their fellow-men in exalting and glorifying themselves. They are interested only in that which will bring them the most money. The value of the man is measured in the world by the amount of money he possesses, and so men cultivate the love of money, place the world first, and make it manifest that the words of CHRIST do not abide in their hearts. They do not follow in the footsteps of our REDEEMER, who gave his life for the ransom of the world. They separate themselves from those who are in poverty, from those who have not been favored with advantages to obtain an education. They value men according to the amount of money they have, but JESUS places an altogether different estimate upon the human soul. He is weighing men in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY, and inquires, “What is a man profited if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” {ST, February 20, 1896 par. 4}

In the name of JESUS CHRIST of Nazareth, be strong in the LORD and in the power of his might. Know that he loves you, and will be your constant efficiency. “Arise and shine; for thy light is come.” “Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD. Lift up your hands in the SANCTUARY, and bless the LORD. The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.” {ST, October 22, 1896 par. 11}

From the sacredness that was attached to the earthly SANCTUARY among the children of Israel, Christians may learn how they should regard the place where the LORD meets with his people. GOD himself gave rules of order, perfect and exact, to be observed in his worship. But there has been a change, not for the better but for the worse, in habits in reference to religious worship. The spirit of reverence has largely passed away. {YI, October 8, 1896 par. 3}

At the time of the death of CHRIST, some of the priests were ministering in the temple at Jerusalem. They felt the shock of the earthquake, and at the same moment the VEIL of the temple, which separated the HOLY from the MOST HOLY PLACE was rent in twain from top to bottom by the same bloodless hand that wrote the words of doom upon the walls of Belshazzar’s palace. The MOST HOLY PLACE of the earthly SANCTUARY was no longer sacred. Never would the presence of GOD again overshadow that MERCY SEAT. Never would the acceptance or displeasure of GOD be manifested by the light or shadow in the precious stones in the BRESTPLATE of the high priest. {SJ 147.1 1896 1900}

There is danger that GOD’S people now will be found, as were the Jews, weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and found wanting. CHRIST rebuked the Jews because, while in small matters they were so exact, paying tithes of mint and anise and cummin, they neglected the weightier matters of the LAW,–mercy, justice, and the LOVE OF GOD. {BEcho, July 26, 1897 par. 2}

Thus this question was forever settled in regard to every seeker after truth. GOD works; but man must co-operate with him in the great PLAN OF SALVATION. The condition of ETERNAL life is not merely to believe, but to do the WORDS of GOD. The men, who, from their office work, we might have expected to represent CHRIST in sympathy and love for those who needed help, “passed by on the other side.” They little knew that the universe of heaven was looking upon them, watching their works, reading the intents and purposes of their hearts, and weighing their characters in the scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They little knew that this same scene will be reproduced before them, in the light in which GOD regards it, in the day of Judgment, when every man shall be judged according to his works. {HM, October 1, 1897 par. 6}

Page 52, same book [Gospel Reader]—The ARK Standing in the Midst of Jordan—see the CHERUBIM on either end of the ARK. What a misrepresentation of the heavenly angels looking with reverence upon the MERCY SEAT, the cover of the ARK. A child might take the representation as a bird hunched up. But when the ARK was removed from the SANCTUARY, the CHERUBIM were never exposed to view. That SACRED ARK, which represented JEHOVAH amid His people, was always covered, that no curious eye might look upon it. Let it ever be covered. {Lt28a-1897}

With what care should every one come to the study of the SCRIPTURES! With what a determination to know all that it is possible for him to know of the reasons of every point of the faith; especially the SANCTUARY question, and the FIRST, SECOND, AND THIRD ANGELS’ MESSAGES, should he study. {Lt98a-1897}

Men of low degree,” says the psalmist, “are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie; they are altogether lighter than vanity.” If the thoughts or motives of a king or of a beggar are employed in any dishonest way, even though it be but to covet a penny, the LORD knows it. There is a right way, and a wrong way. The actions done upon this earth determine the destiny of the actors. GOD weighs every man in the scales of the SANCTUARY. You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting. {Lt117-1897}

Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see GOD! In the estimation of GOD, a pure heart is more precious than the gold of Ophir. A pure heart is the temple where GOD dwells, the SANCTUARY where CHRIST takes up His abode. A pure heart is above everything that is cheap and low; it is a shining light, a treasure house from which come uplifting, sanctified worlds. It is a place where the imagery of GOD is recognized, and where the highest delight is to behold His image. It is a heart that finds its whole and only pleasure and satisfaction in GOD, and whose thoughts and intents and purposes are alive with Godliness. Such a heart is a sacred place; it is a treasury of all virtue. He who possesses such a heart is an example for old and young. This perfect temple wants no guest, relishes no company that does not perfectly harmonize with GOD. {Lt117-1897}

The truth, brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, will sanctify the receiver. It never leads him to do an unrighteous action. Truth never puts its delicate feet on false or uncertain ground, to accommodate itself to any circumstance, however plausible. {Lt118-1897}

You have, in Adelaide, had the fact made apparent to you how unsafe it is to trust in man and make flesh your arm. Submit to the authority of the great TEACHER in all humility of mind. He will arm you with His mind, which will fortify you to discern all rebellion. It is a great mistake in all our churches that religion is ofttimes credited to the persons who give in words an assent to the truth; but unless the truth is brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul it does not control the thoughts, the words, or the conduct of life. We need simply to have the truth in our hearts. {Lt158-1897}

Thou wast perfect in thy ways…. till iniquity was found in thee.” “Thine heart wast lifted up because of thy beauty; thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.” All this was the gift of GOD. GOD was not chargeable with this—making the covering cherub beautiful, noble and good. “By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: … thou hast defiled thy SANCTUARIES by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffick.” {Lt156-1897}

Can we be surprised, then that CHRIST, who made all things, should choose the open air as His SANCTUARY, that He should desire to be surrounded by the works of His creation? True, He taught in the synagogues, but the largest part of His work was done, the greatest number of His lessons were given, in the open air. He placed Himself in the highways of travel, for He could better reach the people where they were coming and going from cities and towns. And thus the common people had an opportunity to hear the great lessons He had for them. These heard Him gladly, for His lessons were connected with, and illustrated by, the most common things in the natural world. The things which His own hand had made He took as His lesson book. He saw in them much more than finite eyes and senses could comprehend. {Ms16-1897}

Judas looked upon several of the disciples as very deficient. They would not see their opportunities, and take advantage of circumstances. The church would never prosper with such short sighted men. Peter was so impetuous; he would move without consideration. John, who was gathering the power of the truths that fell from the lips of CHRIST, and bringing them into the SANCTUARY of the soul, was looked upon by Judas as a poor financier, one who could not keep the church free from financial embarrassment. Matthew, who had had an education which qualified him for accuracy in all his undertakings, was very definite and particular in regard to honesty. He was ever contemplating the words of CHRIST, and became so absorbed in them that he could not be trusted to do sharp, far-seeing business. Thus Judas summed up all the disciples, and flattered himself that the church would often be brought into perplexity and embarrassment if it were not for his managing ability. Judas thought himself the capable one, who would not allow himself to be cheated in a bargain. {Ms28-1897}

Every agent may find something to do in saving souls and advancing the truth of GOD. By the SPIRIT’S POWER, this truth is to be carried into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul and work upon the conscience, and its presence there is revealed by the works done to restore the moral image of GOD in man. There is too much vague instruction. Is it not best to know individually what we believe ourselves, and in what our faith consists? Then we shall be able to say, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of GOD, and of JESUS our LORD, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and Godliness, through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” {Ms46-1897}

CHRIST came to sow the world with truth, and He expects every teacher to be a co-worker with Him in educating the youth to know GOD and JESUS CHRIST whom He hath sent. “Every one that is of the truth,” CHRIST said, “heareth my words.” Having been in the councils of GOD, having been the commander of the angelic host, having been in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, the elements of truth were familiar to Him. He understood all concerning the salvation of the human race, and He spoke that which He knew. He came as the revealer of the INFINITE mind, and He spoke with undisputed authority, for He was unfolding the wisdom of GOD. Truth of the highest order, the words of ETERNAL life, fell from His lips. {Ms69-1897}

What is the matter with those who have BIBLES, and who claim to believe them? They do not eat the HEAVENLY MANNA. Light shines upon them, but it is not appreciated. Many professed Christians refuse to gather up the light sent from heaven, because it does not justify the transgression of the LAW. There are many teaching the WORD OF LIFE to others who are themselves dull of comprehension. They do not bring the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. It is not a living reality to them, because they do not practice it. It has not been digested and converted into SPIRITUAL muscle and sinew. They have closed their eyes, for fear that they will see and be converted. {Ms107-1897}

This false CHRIST was claiming what Satan claimed in heaven—a right to all things. CHRIST in His humiliation was possessor of all things. In Him was no darkness at all. In the words of Simeon, He was, “A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of my people Israel.” The light of the SANCTUARY was to be kept burning before GOD. It was never to burn dim or go out. GOD was a light so effulgent, that Lucifer occupied the position of covering cherub, so that the universe could at all times look upon His glory. The light was not needed to give light to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY; it was to represent His church, to give light to the world. His chosen Israel was to be the light of the world. That light was never to become extinct. {Ms112-1897}

Daniel could have argued that at the royal table and at the king’s command, there was no other course for him to pursue. But he and his fellows had a council together. They canvassed the entire subject as to how they would improve their physical and mental powers by the use of wine. They studied this subject most diligently. They wine of itself, they decided, was a snare. They were acquainted with the history which had come to them in parchments of Nadab and Abihu. In these men the use of wine had encouraged their love for it. They drank wine before their sacred service in the SANCTUARY. Their senses were confused. They could not distinguish the difference between the sacred and the common fire. In their brain-benumbed state they did that which the LORD had charged all who served in holy office not to do. They put the common fire upon their CENSERS, when they had been expressly charged to use only the sacred fire of the LORD’S own kindling, that never went out. {Ms122-1897}

This question is a serious one, and it should be fully entered into and its meaning realized. Men may be members of a church. Apparently they may work religiously, performing a round of prescribed duties from year to year, and still remain unconverted. There are those who write in regard to religious matters. But although they delight to do this work in defense of Christianity, they may yet be unconverted. A man may preach pleasing, entertaining sermons, but he may be far from CHRIST as regards genuine experience. He may be self-sufficient, and exalted to the pinnacle of greatness, yet never have experienced the inward work of grace that should form the character. Such a one is deceived by his connection and familiarity with the sacred truths of the gospel, which have reached the intellect, but have gone no deeper. The truth has not been brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. {Ms130-1897}

The deepest humility should be felt by those who have the privileges of enlightenment and education in missionary lines. The LORD GOD of heaven, by whom all actions are weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY, looks upon the thousands of colored people, our neighbors, who in their destitution are spreading their cases before the Giver of all mercies and blessings. These people are perishing in their sins. As a people they are ignorant, many knowing nothing of purity and Godliness and elevation. But among them are men and women of quick perceptions, excellent talents, and these will be revealed when once the SPIRIT OF GOD shall turn their attention to the WORD. But they need ministry, not in the WORD alone. Those who would do GOD service in this field must go among the people. {Ms164-1897}

This is a lesson to be applied to our SPIRITUAL building of character with solid timbers. The very best kind of timber was secured for the building of our church. We did not stint in measurement, for we wanted the presence of the people who needed to assemble to worship GOD, and we wanted the heavenly angels and JESUS CHRIST in our midst. Let us apply the figure, “Ye are GOD’S building”—a temple prepared to be a home where GOD shall preside, a home where GOD’S attributes shall be constantly shining forth in our characters, showing that we are living with GOD’S PRESENCE. The INNER SANCTUARY of the soul is consecrated to GOD and we are to keep the soul dedicated, CLEANSED, purified for the sacred repository of truth. {Ms182-1897}

5. Among the workers in the office there are those whose hearts are not pure, whose hands are defiled with iniquity, and whose ways are perverted, so that they in no way represent CHRIST. Satan is beside them to influence them in a course of evil; and as they yield to him, they influence others to take the same course. They do not realize the sacredness of the things of GOD, but in spirit they conform to the world and fail to live the divine life, which is opposed to the world and its customs. They have a knowledge of the truth, but fail to bring it into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that they may be sanctified through the truth. {PH152 28.2 1897}

8. Let every soul carefully consider his condition, and inquire, What is my state before GOD? Let him examine closely what kind of material he is bringing into his character-building. Is it that which can be compared to solid timbers, or that which can only be likened to that which is rotten and worm-eaten? We are charged in the WORD OF GOD to “keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” The unconverted heart is the habitation of the evil one, and it is filled with unholy thoughts, with evil surmisings, envy, jealousy, falsehood, and uncontrolled passions, with strife and confusion and every evil work. Let each one search diligently, and inquire, Is my heart free from all these? Let each one closely examine himself to see whether he is in the faith, whether the truth which he professes to believe has been kept in the outer court, or brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that he may be sanctified thereby. The whole heart must be entered and purified by the searching SPIRIT OF GOD. JESUS will not abide in the soul where pride exists; and if we desire his presence, the soul temple must be CLEANSED of all evil occupants. If the door of the heart is open to JESUS, he will come in, and his presence will expel every unholy thought, and by faith we may hold sweet communion with GOD. If JESUS abides in the heart, we shall glorify him in our lives; for the Christian is to let his light shine forth to the world in good works. {PH152 30.1 1897}

Paul wrote to Timothy, “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” This exhortation is applicable to all who live in these last days. The LORD requires thorough, entire service. The mind and the affections must be given to him. The light must be kept burning in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. Then Christians will be given a SPIRITUAL eyesight. They will be enabled to understand and to do the requirements of GOD. {RH, February 2, 1897 par. 15}

We have only one channel of approach to GOD. Our prayers can come to him through one name only,–that of the LORD JESUS our ADVOCATE. HIS SPIRIT must inspire our petitions. No strange fire was to be used in the CENSERS that were waved before GOD in the SANCTUARY. So the LORD himself must kindle in our hearts the burning desire, if our prayers are acceptable to him. The HOLY SPIRIT within must make intercessions for us, with groanings that cannot be uttered. {RH, February 9, 1897 par. 10}

From the two olive-trees, the golden oil was emptied through golden pipes into the bowl of the CANDLESTICK, and thence into the golden lamps that gave light to the SANCTUARY. So from the holy ones that stand in GOD’S PRESENCE, HIS SPIRIT is imparted to human instrumentalities that are consecrated to his service. The mission of the two anointed ones is to communicate light and power to GOD’S people. It is to receive blessing for us that they stand in GOD’S PRESENCE. As the olive-trees empty themselves into the golden pipes, so the heavenly messengers seek to communicate all that they receive from GOD. The whole heavenly treasure awaits our demand and reception; and as we receive the blessing, we in our turn are to impart it. Thus it is that the HOLY lamps are fed, and the church becomes a light-bearer in the world. {RH, March 2, 1897 par. 9}

Several of the disciples were looked upon by Judas as very deficient. They would not see their opportunities, and take advantage of circumstances. The church, he thought, would never prosper with such short-sighted men. Peter was so impetuous; he would move without consideration. John, who was gathering the power of the truths that fell from the lips of CHRIST and bringing them into the SANCTUARY of the soul, was looked upon by Judas as a poor financier, one who could not keep the church free from financial embarrassment. Matthew, who had had an education which qualified him for accuracy in all his undertakings, was very definite and particular in regard to honesty. He was ever contemplating the words of CHRIST, and became so absorbed in them that he could not be trusted to do sharp, far-seeing business. Thus Judas summed up all the disciples, and flattered himself that the church would often be brought into perplexity and embarrassment if it were not for his managing ability. Judas thought himself the capable one, who would not allow himself to be cheated in a bargain. In his own estimation he was an honor to the cause, and as such he always represented himself. {RH, October 5, 1897 par. 6}

Souls in our world today are in need of a SAVIOUR. The LORD has given his church the opportunity to work for him; he has invited them to come to the gospel feast, and to invite others to come with them. Again and again opportunities have been given for GOD’S people to go out into the highways and hedges, and compel those there to come in, that GOD’S house may be full. In the providence of GOD, Dr. Kellogg has entered upon a work whereby he can organize workers to carry forward the work of bringing the truth before thousands that are now in vice and iniquity, that they may be redeemed from a life of dissipation and sin. All the people of GOD should be interested in this work. But a love of ease and selfish indulgence has been shown by many. We are sorry to say that some who have had every privilege of knowing BIBLE TRUTH have not brought it into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. GOD holds all these accountable for their misused talents, which were entrusted to them to be improved, but which they have not returned to him in honest, faithful service. {SpTA10 4.2 1897}

Anything [Any wrong habit] that lessens the physical power enfeebles the mind, and makes it less clear to discriminate between good and evil, between right and wrong. This principle is illustrated in the case of Nadab and Abihu. GOD gave them a most sacred work to perform, permitting them to come near to himself in their appointed service; but they had a habit of drinking wine, and they entered upon the HOLY service in the SANCTUARY with confused minds. There was the sacred fire, which was kindled by GOD himself; but they used the common fire upon their CENSERS, when they offered INCENSE to ascend as a sweet fragrance with the prayers of GOD’S people. Because their minds were clouded by an unholy indulgence, they disregarded the divine requirement; “and there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” {SpTEd 35.2 1897} {NPU Gleaner, April 14, 1909 par. 2 with [] wording}

GOD prohibited the use of wine to the priests ministering in his SANCTUARY, and the same injunction would have been made against tobacco, had its use been known; for it, too, has a benumbing influence upon the brain. And besides clouding the mind, it is unclean and defiling. Let every one resist the temptation to use wine, tobacco, flesh-meats, tea, or coffee. Experience has demonstrated that far better work can be accomplished without these harmful things. {SpTEd 35.3 1897}

The foundation firmly laid, we need wisdom that we may know how to build. When Moses was about to erect the SANCTUARY in the wilderness, he was cautioned, “See that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.” In HIS LAW GOD has given us a pattern. Our character building is to be “after the pattern showed to thee in the mount.” The LAW is the great standard of righteousness. It represents the character of GOD, and is the test of our loyalty to his government. And it is revealed to us, in all its beauty and excellence, in the life of CHRIST. The LAW is the detector of sin. We have inspired testimony on this point: “For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came [home to the conscience], sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.” Romans 7:9-11. This is the work that it will do for every soul that is living in sin. The law points out sin, and condemns it, and sends the sinner to CHRIST for pardon and CLEANSING. “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” {SpTEd 73.3 1897}

Children should be taught to have a part in domestic duties. They should be instructed how to help father and mother in the little things that they can do. Their minds should be trained to think, their memories taxed to remember their appointed work; and in the training to habits of usefulness in the home, they are being educated in doing practical duties appropriate to their age. If children have proper home training, they will not be found upon the streets receiving the haphazard education that so many receive. Parents who love their children in a sensible way will not permit them to grow up with lazy habits, and ignorant of how to do home duties. Ignorance is not acceptable to GOD, and is unfavorable for the doing of his work. To be ignorant is not to be considered a mark of humility, or something for which men should be praised. But GOD works for people in spite of their ignorance. Those who have had no opportunity for acquiring knowledge, or who have had opportunity and have failed to improve it, and become converted to GOD, can be useful in the service of the LORD through the operation of HIS HOLY SPIRIT. But those who have education, and who consecrate themselves to the SERVICE OF GOD, can do service in a greater variety of ways, and can accomplish a much more extensive work in bringing souls to the knowledge of the truth than can those who are uneducated. They are on vantage ground, because of the discipline of mind which they have had. We would not depreciate education in the least, but would counsel that it be carried forward with a full sense of the shortness of time, and the great work that is to be accomplished before the coming of CHRIST. We would not have the students receive the idea that they can spend many years in acquiring an education. Let them use the education that they can acquire in a reasonable length of time, in carrying forward the work of GOD. {SpTEd 223.1a 1897}

[We would not have the students receive the idea that they can spend many years in acquiring an education. Let them use the education that they can acquire in a reasonable time in carrying forward the work of GOD.] Our SAVIOUR is in the SANCTUARY pleading in our behalf. He is our interceding HIGH PRIEST, making an atoning sacrifice for us, pleading in our behalf the efficacy of his blood. Parents should seek to represent this SAVIOUR to their children, to establish in their minds the PLAN OF SALVATION, how that because of transgression of the LAW OF GOD, CHRIST became our sin-bearer. The fact that the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD gave his life because of man’s transgression, to satisfy justice and to vindicate the honor of GOD’S LAW, should be constantly kept before the minds of children and youth. The object of this great sacrifice should also be kept before them; for it was to uplift fallen man degraded by sin that this great sacrifice was made. CHRIST suffered in order that through faith in him our sins might be pardoned. He became man’s substitute and surety, himself taking the punishment, though all undeserving, that we who deserved it might be free, and return to our allegiance to GOD through the merits of a crucified and risen SAVIOUR. He is our only hope of salvation. Through his sacrifice we who are now on probation are prisoners of hope. We are to reveal to the universe, to the world fallen and to worlds unfallen, that there is forgiveness with GOD, that through the LOVE OF GOD we may be reconciled to GOD. Man repents, becomes contrite in heart, believes in CHRIST as his atoning sacrifice, and realizes that GOD is reconciled to him. {SpTEd 223.1b 1897} {Lt60-1895 first part with [] portion.}

There is no religion in the enthronement of self. GOD asks us to be true to him, to trade upon the talents he has given us, that we may gain others. His will must be made our will in all things. Any departure from this standard degrades our moral nature. It may result in lifting us up, in enriching us, and in seating us beside princes; but in the eyes of GOD we are unclean and unholy. We have sold our birthright for selfish interest and gain, and in the books of heaven it is written of us, Weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting. {ST, January 21, 1897 par. 12}

The Jewish leaders had instructed the people that at Jerusalem they were to be taught by precept and example to worship GOD. Here, during the Passover week, large numbers assembled from all parts of Palestine, and from distant lands. Many were unable to bring with them the sacrifices which were to be offered up as typifying the one great Sacrifice. For the convenience of these, animals were bought and sold in the temple courts. Here all classes of people assembled to purchase their offerings. Here foreign coins were exchanged for the coin of the SANCTUARY. {ST, September 16, 1897 par. 2}

GOD commanded Moses for Israel, “Let them make Me a SANCTUARY; that I may dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8), and He abode in the SANCTUARY, in the midst of His people. Through all their weary wandering in the desert, the symbol of His presence was with them. So CHRIST set up His TABERNACLE in the midst of our human encampment. He pitched His tent by the side of the tents of men, that He might dwell among us, and make us familiar with His divine character and life. “The WORD became flesh, and TABERNACLED among us (and we beheld His glory, glory as of the ONLY BEGOTTEN from the FATHER), full of grace and truth.” John 1:14, R. V., margin. {DA 23.3 1898}

After sending this judgment upon Egypt, the LORD said to Moses, “Sanctify unto Me all the first-born, . . . both of man and of beast: it is Mine;” “for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the LORD.” Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:13. After the TABERNACLE service was established, the LORD chose the tribe of Levi in the place of the first-born of all Israel to minister in the SANCTUARY. But the first-born were still to be regarded as the LORD’S, and were to be bought back by a ransom. {DA 51.4 1898}

The SHEKINAH had departed from the SANCTUARY, but in the Child of Bethlehem was veiled the glory before which angels bow. This unconscious babe was the promised seed, to whom the first ALTAR at the gate of Eden pointed. This was Shiloh, the peace giver. It was He who declared Himself to Moses as the I AM. It was He who in the pillar of cloud and of fire had been the guide of Israel. This was He whom seers had long foretold. He was the Desire of all nations, the Root and the Offspring of David, and the Bright and Morning Star. The name of that helpless little babe, inscribed in the roll of Israel, declaring Him our brother, was the hope of fallen humanity. The child for whom the redemption money had been paid was He who was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world. He was the true “high priest over the HOUSE OF GOD,” the head of “an unchangeable priesthood,” the INTERCESSOR at “the right hand of the MAJESTY on high.” Hebrews 10:21; 7:24; 1:3. {DA 52.3 1898}

He [Zachariah] was standing before the GOLDEN ALTAR in the HOLY PLACE of the SANCTUARY. The cloud of INCENSE with the prayers of Israel was ascending before GOD. Suddenly he became conscious of a divine presence. An angel of the LORD was “standing on the right side of the ALTAR.” The position of the angel was an indication of favor, but Zacharias took no note of this. For many years he had prayed for the coming of the REDEEMER; now heaven had sent its messenger to announce that these prayers were about to be answered; but the MERCY OF GOD seemed too great for him to credit. He was filled with fear and self-condemnation. {DA 97.3 1898}

John found in the wilderness his school and his SANCTUARY. Like Moses amid the mountains of Midian, he was shut in by GOD’S PRESENCE, and surrounded by the evidences of His power. It was not his lot to dwell, as did Israel’s great leader, amid the solemn majesty of the mountain solitudes; but before him were the heights of Moab, beyond Jordan, speaking of Him who had set fast the mountains, and girded them with strength. The gloomy and terrible aspect of nature in his wilderness home vividly pictured the condition of Israel. The fruitful vineyard of the LORD had become a desolate waste. But above the desert the heavens bent bright and beautiful. The clouds that gathered, dark with tempest, were arched by the rainbow of promise. So above Israel’s degradation shone the promised glory of the MESSIAH’s reign. The clouds of wrath were spanned by the rainbow of His covenant-mercy. {DA 102.4 1898}

Every Jew was required to pay yearly a half shekel as “a ransom for his soul;” and the money thus collected was used for the support of the temple. Exodus 30:12-16. Besides this, large sums were brought as freewill offerings, to be deposited in the temple treasury. And it was required that all foreign coin should be changed for a coin called the temple shekel, which was accepted for the service of the SANCTUARY. The money changing gave opportunity for fraud and extortion, and it had grown into a disgraceful traffic, which was a source of revenue to the priests. {DA 155.1 1898}

In three days I will raise it up.” In the SAVIOUR’S death the powers of darkness seemed to prevail, and they exulted in their victory. But from the rent sepulcher of Joseph, JESUS came forth a conqueror. “Having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them.” Colossians 2:15. By virtue of His death and resurrection He became the minister of the “true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 8:2. Men reared the Jewish TABERNACLE; men builded the Jewish temple; but the SANCTUARY above, of which the earthly was a type, was built by no human architect. “Behold the Man whose name is The Branch; . . . He shall build the temple of the LORD; and He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a priest upon His THRONE.” Zechariah 6:12, 13. {DA 165.5 1898}

The sacrificial service that had pointed to CHRIST passed away; but the eyes of men were turned to the true sacrifice for the sins of the world. The earthly priesthood ceased; but we look to JESUS, the minister of the NEW COVENANT, and “to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.” “The way into the HOLIEST OF ALL was not yet made manifest, while as the FIRST TABERNACLE was yet standing: . . . but CHRIST being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect TABERNACLE, not made with hands, . . . by His own blood He entered in once into the HOLY PLACE, having obtained ETERNAL redemption for us.” Hebrews 12:24; 9:8-12. {DA 166.1 1898}

Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25. Though the ministration was to be removed from the earthly to the HEAVENLY TEMPLE; though the SANCTUARY and our great high priest would be invisible to human sight, yet the disciples were to suffer no loss thereby. They would realize no break in their communion, and no diminution of power because of the SAVIOUR’S absence. While JESUS ministers in the SANCTUARY above, He is still by HIS SPIRIT the minister of the church on earth. He is withdrawn from the eye of sense, but His parting promise is fulfilled, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20. While He delegates His power to inferior ministers, His energizing presence is still with His church. {DA 166.2 1898}

When Moses was about to build the SANCTUARY as a dwelling place for GOD, he was directed to make all things according to the pattern shown him in the mount. Moses was full of zeal to do GOD’S work; the most talented, skillful men were at hand to carry out his suggestions. Yet he was not to make a bell, a pomegranate, a tassel, a fringe, a CURTAIN, or any vessel of the SANCTUARY, except according to the pattern shown him. GOD called him into the mount, and revealed to him the heavenly things. The LORD covered him with His own glory, that he might see the pattern, and according to it all things were made. So to Israel, whom He desired to make His dwelling place, He had revealed His glorious ideal of character. The pattern was shown them in the mount when the law was given from Sinai, and when the LORD passed by before Moses and proclaimed, “The LORD, The LORD GOD, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” Exodus 34:6, 7. {DA 208.3 1898}

Thus were spent the days in the earthly life of JESUS. He often dismissed His disciples to visit their homes and rest; but He gently resisted their efforts to draw Him away from His labors. All day He toiled, teaching the ignorant, healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, feeding the multitude; and at the eventide or in the early morning, He went away to the SANCTUARY of the mountains for communion with His FATHER. Often He passed the entire night in prayer and meditation, returning at daybreak to His work among the people. {DA 259.5 1898}

When He should come forth from the tomb, their sorrow would be turned to joy. After His ascension He was to be absent in person; but through the COMFORTER He would still be with them, and they were not to spend their time in mourning. This was what Satan wanted. He desired them to give the world the impression that they had been deceived and disappointed; but by faith they were to look to the SANCTUARY above, where JESUS was ministering for them; they were to open their hearts to the HOLY SPIRIT, HIS REPRESENTATIVE, and to rejoice in the light of His presence. Yet days of temptation and trial would come, when they would be brought into conflict with the rulers of this world, and the leaders of the kingdom of darkness; when CHRIST was not personally with them, and they failed to discern the COMFORTER, then it would be more fitting for them to fast. {DA 277.4 1898}

It was under the trees of Eden that the first dwellers on earth had chosen their SANCTUARY. There CHRIST had communed with the father of mankind. When banished from Paradise, our first parents still worshiped in the fields and groves, and there CHRIST met them with the gospel of His grace. It was CHRIST who spoke with Abraham under the oaks at Mamre; with Isaac as he went out to pray in the fields at the eventide; with Jacob on the hillside at Bethel; with Moses among the mountains of Midian; and with the boy David as he watched his flocks. It was at CHRIST’S direction that for fifteen centuries the Hebrew people had left their homes for one week every year, and had dwelt in booths formed from the green branches “of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook.” Leviticus 23:40. {DA 290.3 1898}

In training His disciples, JESUS chose to withdraw from the confusion of the city to the quiet of the fields and hills, as more in harmony with the lessons of self-abnegation He desired to teach them. And during His ministry He loved to gather the people about Him under the blue heavens, on some grassy hillside, or on the beach beside the lake. Here, surrounded by the works of His own creation, He could turn the thoughts of His hearers from the artificial to the natural. In the growth and development of nature were revealed the principles of His kingdom. As men should lift up their eyes to the hills of GOD, and behold the wonderful works of His hands, they could learn precious lessons of divine truth. CHRIST’S teaching would be repeated to them in the things of nature. So it is with all who go into the fields with CHRIST in their hearts. They will feel themselves surrounded with a holy influence. The things of nature take up the parables of our LORD, and repeat His counsels. By communion with GOD in nature, the mind is uplifted, and the heart finds rest. {DA 291.1 1898}

The first step was now to be taken in the organization of the church that after CHRIST’S departure was to be HIS REPRESENTATIVE on earth. No costly SANCTUARY was at their command, but the SAVIOUR led His disciples to the retreat He loved, and in their minds the sacred experiences of that day were forever linked with the beauty of mountain and vale and sea. {DA 291.2 1898}

But Peter only partially comprehended the purpose of his questioner. There were some classes who were held to be exempt from the payment of the tribute. In the time of Moses, when the Levites were set apart for the service of the SANCTUARY, they were given no inheritance among the people. The LORD said, “Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the LORD is his inheritance.” Deuteronomy 10:9. In the days of CHRIST the priests and Levites were still regarded as especially devoted to the temple, and were not required to make the annual contribution for its support. Prophets also were exempted from this payment. In requiring the tribute from JESUS, the rabbis were setting aside His claim as a prophet or teacher, and were dealing with Him as with any commonplace person. A refusal on His part to pay the tribute would be represented as disloyalty to the temple; while, on the other hand, the payment of it would be taken as justifying their rejection of Him as a prophet. {DA 433.2 1898}

Sanctify the LORD of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” Carried down in prophetic vision to the first advent, the prophet is shown that CHRIST is to bear trials and tests of which the treatment of the chief cornerstone in the temple of Solomon was symbolic. “Therefore thus saith the LORD GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isaiah 8:13-15; 28:16. {DA 598.1 1898}

As yet the disciples were unacquainted with the SAVIOUR’S unlimited resources and power. He said to them, “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name.” John 16:24. He explained that the secret of their success would be in asking for strength and grace in His name. He would be present before the FATHER to make request for them. The prayer of the humble suppliant He presents as His own desire in that soul’s behalf. Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the SANCTUARY where JESUS ministers, and He will present it to the FATHER without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the INCENSE of His own perfection. {DA 667.3 1898} {ST, June 18, 1902 par. 10}

Everything worn by the priest was to be whole and without blemish. By those beautiful official garments was represented the character of the great antitype, JESUS CHRIST. Nothing but perfection, in dress and attitude, in word and spirit, could be acceptable to GOD. He is holy, and His glory and perfection must be represented by the earthly service. Nothing but perfection could properly represent the sacredness of the heavenly service. Finite man might rend his own heart by showing a contrite and humble spirit. This GOD would discern. But no rent must be made in the priestly robes, for this would mar the representation of heavenly things. The high priest who dared to appear in holy office, and engage in the service of the SANCTUARY, with a rent robe, was looked upon as having severed himself from GOD. By rending his garment he cut himself off from being a representative character. He was no longer accepted by GOD as an officiating priest. This course of action, as exhibited by Caiaphas, showed human passion, human imperfection. {DA 709.1 1898} {Ms102-1897}

When the loud cry, “It is finished,” came from the lips of CHRIST, the priests were officiating in the temple. It was the hour of the evening sacrifice. The lamb representing CHRIST had been brought to be slain. Clothed in his significant and beautiful dress, the priest stood with lifted knife, as did Abraham when he was about to slay his SON. With intense interest the people were looking on. But the earth trembles and quakes; for the LORD Himself draws near. With a rending noise the INNER VEIL of the temple is torn from top to bottom by an unseen hand, throwing open to the gaze of the multitude a place once filled with the presence of GOD. In this place the SHEKINAH had dwelt. Here GOD had manifested His glory above the MERCY SEAT. No one but the high priest ever lifted the VEIL separating this APARTMENT from the rest of the temple. He entered in once a year to make an ATONEMENT for the sins of the people. But lo, this VEIL is rent in twain. The MOST HOLY PLACE of the earthly SANCTUARY is no longer sacred. {DA 756.5 1898}

GOD weighs every man in the scales of the SANCTUARY. Each one may have his own individual standard, but GOD’S HOLY, IMMUTABLE LAW, in which there is no variableness neither shadow of turning, is the standard that all must meet. Read, and take heed, lest ye perish in the way of your own choosing: “Thou shalt love the LORD thy GOD with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” GOD requires the powers of heart and mind and body. All these are the LORD’S talents, lent by Him to human beings that they may be used to His name’s glory. Life itself is a talent of great value, for when health is once lost, it may be gone for good as far as this world is concerned. {Lt41-1898}

What was the sin of the Sardis church? It was want of love and interest to strengthen the things which remained. They were not to put down those things, but build them up on the most holy faith. Their works could not be perfect before GOD until they had done this work. They were to keep fresh in their memory the things they had heard and received, and were to communicate the same to others. They were themselves to hold fast, and repent, that they had made so little use of the truth in helping the souls that were ready to die. This work had been neglected, and they were revealing to the world that their works did not correspond with their faith. The things they had received and heard, they were to hold fast in their memory, and in love for souls, they were to communicate it. GOD called for repentance, because of this neglect of duty, which made their work imperfect before Him. They were weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting. {Lt44-1898}

Why is this statement made? Because it is in contradiction to the statements made by the world that CHRIST changed the seventh-day sabbath to the first day of the week. There are thousands upon thousands who bear aloft the standard of the world’s sabbath, exalting the image of the papacy created by the man of sin. The churches worship the image of the beast and receive his mark, even as the inhabitants of Babylon worshipped the golden image which Nebuchadnezzar set up in the plain of Dura. The CHURCH OF GOD was captive in Babylon, deeply tried, deeply humiliated. The glory had departed from Israel; the sons and daughters of Judah were captive, and the sacred vessels of the SANCTUARY had become the property of the spoiler. Their beautiful temple was in ruins, and “Ichabod, Ichabod, The glory is departed from Israel,” was heard in songs of lamentation. The outward ordinances had been allowed to take the place of GOD, ceremonial observances were worshipped while CHRIST, the foundation of all their ceremonial service, was lost sight of. {Lt60-1898}

We have this matter placed in the heavenly scales and weighed, and the results is presented before us. All this ambitious exercising of the spirit to exalt self will surely be worked by satanic agencies until the persons, whatever their profession, will reveal hereditary and cultivated attributes that will place them in the very lowest scale; and when GOD shall weigh them in the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, the sentence will be passed, Thou art weighed in the balances, and found wanting. {Lt65-1898}

It is the privilege of all to give to the world, in their family government, in their customs and practices and order, an evidence of what the truth can do for those who obey it. You are not to allow yourselves to come down to a low, cheap level in words or works. The truth of GOD brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, is the grand remedy for all physical, mental, and SPIRITUAL disorders. What ever the WORD says is to be taken home. It is to be partaken of as the bread of heaven, as the flesh and blood of the SON OF GOD. Fallen man must daily derive his vitalizing power from Him who has said, “I am the Light of the world.” “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” Apart from Him, everything is worthless. {Lt107-1898}

The characters of many have been molded by the false estimate placed on worldly rich men. The man possessed of houses and lands, lauded and deceived by the respect given him, may look down upon the poor man, who possesses virtues that the rich man does not. When weighed in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY, the selfish, covetous rich man will be found wanting, while the poor man, who has depended in faith upon GOD alone for his virtue and goodness, will be pronounced heir to ETERNAL riches in the kingdom of GOD. {Ms22-1898}

These exercises drive back the power of Satan. They expel murmuring and complaints, and Satan loses ground. GOD teaches us that we should assemble in His house to cultivate the attributes of perfect love. This will fit the dwellers of earth for the mansions CHRIST has gone to prepare for them that love Him. Then they will assemble in the SANCTUARY from SABBATH to SABBATH, from one new moon to another, to unite in loftier strains of song, in thanksgiving and praise to Him who sitteth upon the THRONE, and to the LAMB forever and ever. {Ms24-1898}

When CHRIST gave this parable, there were many in the Jewish nation in the pitiable condition of the rich man, using the LORD’S goods for selfish gratification, preparing themselves to hear the sentence, Thou art weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and art found wanting. The rich man was favored with every temporal and SPIRITUAL blessing, but he refused to co-operate with GOD in the use of these blessings. Thus it was with the Jewish nation. The LORD had made the Jews the depositaries of sacred truth. He had appointed them to be stewards of His grace. But they exalted themselves, and gloried in the fact that they were children of Abraham. GOD sent His SON to warn them, but they would not receive Him. Standing among them CHRIST declared, “When ye have lifted up the SON OF MAN, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my FATHER hath taught me, I speak these things.” {Ms81-1898}

The truth must exercise an influence over the practical life. The large and the small things are always linked together. The fact that the little things are not seen and linked with the great and higher interests is the cause of the failure of many church members. There are great defects in the professedly Christian life. Their words are not leavened by the truth. There are many whose characters are now being weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and they are pronounced “wanting” because they do not bring the truth into practice. {Ms82-1898}

When the LORD weighs in the balances of the SANCTUARY the actions of those who have striven to be first, when they see how He regards such strife, they will bow low at His footstool, ashamed of their course of action. All cannot be first, all cannot be masters. Walk humbly before GOD, acknowledging Him as your MASTER. It is a great misfortune to be unable to see in others higher excellencies and powers of greater usefulness than in yourself. If we will partake of the divine nature, GOD will fit us to find happiness in activity, and rest in wearing CHRIST’S yoke. Using aright the powers GOD has given us, praying, waiting, watching, and working, wearing CHRIST’S yoke and learning daily of Him to be meek and lowly of heart, will bring great joy into our lives. {Ms88-1898}

In His mercy and love, the LORD has given me this testimony to bear. When weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, many are found wanting. The words that I have here traced should be carefully studied. There is need of close examination of your deed of trust wherewith you approach GOD. Many have forfeited, and are forfeiting, their conditions of acceptance with the FATHER. They approach GOD with His promise, and ask Him to fulfill them, when by so doing GOD would dishonor His name. There are so many who have no assurance. They love self. They do those things which dishonor CHRIST’S name, and CHRIST cannot take their name upon His lips. {Ms98-1898}

Submission and surrender to CHRIST are the most effectual lessons children and youth can learn. They are to train for this under the banner of PRINCE EMMANUEL. This training is to commence in the SANCTUARY of the home. The apostle says, “Children, obey your parents in the LORD, for this is right. Honor thy father and mother, which is the first commandment with promise, that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long on the earth.” “Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee.” This is the counsel of GOD. Will the children heed this instruction? Will they be wise unto salvation? {Ms125-1898}

The LORD calls for sincere and earnest work. Half-heartedness spoils the human agent for both worlds. When weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY, those who have done a surface work will be found wanting. Without life in CHRIST there can be no SPIRITUAL growth, no real development. Each one of us needs to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. We turn our blessings into a curse, to our own souls and to the souls of others, unless we do this. {Ms157-1898}

Looking unto JESUS, the AUTHOR and FINISHER of our faith, we need not make the mistakes that cause to be written opposite our names the words, “Weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting.” Those who follow the divine Leader in this world will be with Him in the city of GOD. They will dwell with Him upon GOD’S great farm, the earth renewed and beautified. Eden will be restored. {Ms161-1898}

But many professed Christians have never seen the Way, the Truth, and the Life. This is the reason why there is so little freedom and sanctification. One safeguard after another is removed from the SANCTUARY of the conscience. The failure to overcome leaves the soul unguarded. One evil habit, if not firmly resisted, will strengthen into chains of steel, binding the whole man. Slipshod religion is a dangerous thing is the home, in the church, or in any place. And to educate the mind to look for defects in others unfits the soul for communion with GOD. It is a leaven of evil. The very act of looking for evil in others develops defects in those who look. These would be alarmed could they see the facts that are registered against them in the books of heaven. {Ms164-1898} {YI, September 21, 1899 par. 6}

In every school established the most simple theory of theology should be taught. In this theory, the ATONEMENT of CHRIST should be the great substance, the central truth. The wonderful theme of redemption should be presented to the students. Ms156, 1898

Psalms 20:1, 2, 6: The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the GOD of Jacob defend thee; send thee help from the SANCTUARY, and strengthen thee out of Zion. . . . Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. {PH048 36.1 1898}

Though many do not positively reject the message which the LORD sends them, they give little response to it in life and character, in comparison with what the LORD has a right to expect from them. But it is GOD’S design that the truth shall be carried into the SANCTUARY of the soul, and work upon the conscience, and that its presence there shall be revealed by the works done to restore the moral image of GOD in man. Every one may find something to do in saving souls and advancing the truth of GOD. And all who engage in this work are laboring for time and for eternity. The promise of Inspiration is, “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” {RH, February 1, 1898 par. 14}

This is the provision made for the people of GOD in all ages. He who dwelleth in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY judgeth righteously. Those who wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against SPIRITUAL wickedness in high places, are His special care. “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of GOD,” the armor that He has provided for every believer, “that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the BRESTPLATE of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the SPIRIT, which is the WORD OF GOD; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the SPIRIT, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” {ST, September 15, 1898 par. 11}

It is a mistake for any to suppose that they can with safety pass by the little things with indifference. In the home and in the church there are matters which are looked upon as “little things.” But it is these “little things” that have the great results. It is the “little things” that discipline the soul, and prepare men to act with lowly-mindedness under large responsibilities. The leaven of truth is a living principle. This principle is to be practised in the little things, and exert an influence over the daily life. The large and small things are always linked together. It is because the “little things” are not always seen and linked with those of higher interest that so many professed Christians fail. Many whose characters are now being weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY are pronounced wanting, because they do not bring the truth into the practical life. {ST, October 27, 1898 par. 4}

The tremendous issues of eternity demand of us something more than an imaginary religion. A stately form of worship and high devotional ceremonies do not constitute a light to the world; and yet truth that is looked upon and admired in the same way as a beautiful picture or lovely flower, and not brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, is thought by many to be all that is required in a worshiper. Many hear the truth, and imaginary probabilities and possibilities loom up before their minds, and they think that, had they the chance, they would do some wonderful thing; but in all this that they seem to think the sum total of religion, they have no idea as to what is pure and undefiled religion. {YI, February 17, 1898 par. 1}

While on earth, the REDEEMER of the world sought to make his lessons of instruction plain and simple, that all might comprehend them; and can we be surprised that he should choose the open air as his SANCTUARY, that he should desire to be surrounded by the works of his creation? True, he taught in the synagogues, but the largest part of his work was done, the greatest number of his lessons were given, in the open air. He had special reasons for resorting to the groves and the seaside. He could there have a commanding view of the landscape, and make use of objects and scenes with which those in humble life were familiar. The things which his own hand had made he took as his lesson book. He saw in them more than finite minds could comprehend. The birds, caroling forth their songs without a care, the flowers of the valley glowing in their beauty, the lily that reposed in its purity on the bosom of the lake, the lofty trees, the cultivated land, the waving grain, the barren soil, the tree that bore no fruit, the everlasting hills, the bubbling stream, the setting sun, tinting and gilding the heavens,–all these he employed to impress his hearers with divine truth. He connected the work of GOD’S finger in the heavens and upon the earth with the word of life. From these he drew his lessons of SPIRITUAL instruction. He would pluck the lilies, the flowers of the valley, and place them in the hands of the little children, as instructors to proclaim the truth of his word. {YI, March 24, 1898 par. 7}

But because men did not like to be told of their sins, because they did not wish to be reproved or corrected, they determined to resist him. JESUS saw that which those who were blinded by the enemy could not see. He tried to convince them that everything opposed to the principles he was teaching was a delusion and a falsehood. “Every one that is of the truth,” he said, “heareth my voice.” He was the embodiment of truth and holiness. He who had stood in the councils of GOD, who had dwelt in the INNERMOST SANCTUARY of the ETERNAL, was speaking that whereof he knew. He was presenting truth of the highest order, revealing to men the mind of the Infinite. But the men who claimed to stand high in knowledge and SPIRITUAL understanding failed to comprehend his meaning; and that which had been evolved from eternity by the FATHER and SON, they in their ignorance stood as critics to condemn. {YI, September 22, 1898 par. 9}

Stones have frequently been used as memorials of GOD’S dealing with His people. Joshua, knowing that the time of his service as the visible leader of the children of Israel was about to end, gathered the people together, and caused them to renew their covenant with their Maker. Then he “wrote these words in the BOOK of the LAW OF GOD, and took a great stone, and set it up there under an oak that was by the SANCTUARY of the LORD. “Behold,” he said, “this stone shall be a witness unto us; for it hath heard all the words of the LORD, which He spake unto us. It shall be therefore a witness unto you, lest ye deny your GOD.” {BEcho, August 7, 1899 par. 9}

The LORD GOD of heaven, by whom all actions are weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY, looks upon the thousands of colored people, our neighbors, who, in their destitution, are spreading their cases before the Giver of all mercies and blessings. These people are perishing in their sins. As a people they are ignorant, many knowing nothing of purity and Godliness and elevation. But among them are men and women of quick perceptions, excellent talents, and these will be revealed when once the SPIRIT OF GOD shall turn their attention to the WORD.” {GCDB, February 23, 1899 par. 8}

And a voice came out of the THRONE, saying, Praise our GOD, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the LORD GOD omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the LAMB is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her [the church who are obeying a “Thus saith the LORD”] was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white; for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the LAMB. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of GOD.’ Why is this statement made that ‘these are the true sayings of GOD?’ Why is this statement made? – Because it is in contradiction to the statements made by the world that CHRIST changed the SEVENTH-DAY SABBATH to the first day of the week. There are thousands upon thousands who bear aloft the standard of the world’s sabbath, exalting the image of the papacy created by the man of sin. The church worship the image of the beast, and receive his mark, even as the inhabitants of Babylon worshiped the golden image which Nebuchadnezzar set up in the Plain of Dura. The CHURCH OF GOD was captive in Babylon, deeply tried, deeply humiliated. The glory had departed from Israel; the sons and daughters of Judah were captive; and the sacred vessels of the SANCTUARY had become the property of the spoiler. Their beautiful temple was in ruins, and Ichabod, Ichabod, the glory is departed from Israel,’ was heard in songs of lamentation.” “The outward ordinances had been allowed to take the place of GOD; ceremonial observances were worshiped, while CHRIST, the foundation of all their ceremonial service, was lost sight of.” “Saith the WORD, ‘Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see GOD.’ Notwithstanding the external disadvantages, there were those who in their captivity had songs to sing, in the night of discouragement. The LORD permitted them to be broken up until they should find in him their center of attraction.” {GCDB, March 7, 1899 par. 5}

Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, land every wisehearted man, in whom the LORD put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the SANCTUARY, according to all that the LORD had commanded. And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wisehearted man, in whose heart the LORD had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it. And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the SANCTUARY, to make it withal. And they brought yet unto him free offerings every morning. And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the SANCTUARY, came every man from his work which they made.” {Lt9-1899}

I hope you will not turn from the gospel message. Almost, not fully pursuaded, is to be lost. Be sure to place yourself in the channel of light. And I have to bear this message to you: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man have the world, the love of the FATHER is not in him.” You have not one hour to waste. You need now to be preparing yourselves for the grand review which must soon take place, when all must be weighed in the balance of the SANCTUARY, to see if they are complete in JESUS CHRIST. {Lt21-1899}

Now comes the contrast. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doing. As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at the end shall be a fool. A glorious high THRONE from the beginning is the place of our SANCTUARY. O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters. Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise. {Lt34-1899}

In constantly dealing with matters for the papers, many seem to lose their discrimination. May the LORD not only anoint your eyes that they may see, but pour into your heart the HOLY oil that from the two olive trees flows through the two golden pipes into the golden bowl, which feeds the lamp for the SANCTUARY. “And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my LORD. Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the LORD of the whole earth.” Unless we are wide awake, we are not able to discern SPIRITUAL things. We lose the sense of the power of the truth, and handle sacred things as we handle the common things. The result is weakness and uncertainty, and we are not safe counsellors or guides. Wake up, brethren; for CHRIST’S sake, wake up. You are not being sanctified through the truth. {Lt89-1899}

And now, Solomon, my SON, know thou the GOD of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the SANCTUARY: be strong and do it.” {Lt94-1899}

In Exodus twenty-five the FURNITURE of the SANCTUARY was described. An ARK was made to contain the LAW OF GOD which had been written by His finger on two TABLES OF STONE. GOD commanded, “In the ARK thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee. And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the MERCY SEAT, from between the TWO CHERUBIMS which are upon the ARK of the testimony, of all things which I shall give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel. This chapter should be read and studied. {Ms77-1899}

CHRIST’S priestly intercession is now going on in the SANCTUARY above in our behalf. But how few have a real understanding that our great HIGH PRIEST presents before the FATHER His own blood, claiming for the sinner who receives Him as his personal SAVIOUR all the graces which His covenant embraces as the reward of His sacrifice. This sacrifice made Him abundantly able to save to the uttermost all that come unto GOD by Him, seeing He liveth to make intercession for them. May the LORD teach His people the importance of the subjects and principles which concern the preparation for the higher school. They know so little compared with what they might know if they understood what is comprehended in higher education. May the LORD increase our perceptive faculties, enabling us to learn the lessons which mean so much to every soul. {Ms92-1899}

The experience of Nadab and Abihu should be a lesson to all who bear any responsibilities in the SERVICE OF GOD. An example of unrighteousness greatly dishonors GOD, and He will not tolerate it. The tenth chapter of Leviticus records the sin of Aaron’s sons and their punishment. The sacred fire which GOD commanded should be used in the service of the SANCTUARY represented GOD. This fire never went out day nor night, and this was to be used in all their service. But “Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censor and put fire therein, and put INCENSE thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified.” {Ms109-1899}

When Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the SANCTUARY, and all the vessels of the SANCTUARY, as the camp is to set forward; after that the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it; but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the TABERNACLE of the congregation.” Korah, with Dathan and Abiram, had been honored and placed in positions of trust. But they were not contented. They wanted to be commanders. They forgot that GOD and not Moses had placed them where they were, and they charged Moses with taking too much upon himself. {Ms110-1899}

Certain men were appointed to perform certain parts of the HOLY service. Moses and Aaron and his sons were most closely connected with the SANCTUARY service. They were to minister before the TABERNACLE of witness. “The LORD said unto Aaron, Thou and thy sons and thy father’s house with thee shall bear the iniquity of the SANCTUARY; and thou and thy sons with thee shall bear the iniquity of the priesthood… Ye shall keep the charge of the SANCTUARY, and the charge of the ALTAR; that there be no wrath any more upon the children of Israel…. Thou and thy sons with thee shall keep your priest’s office for everything of the ALTAR, and within the VEIL: and ye shall serve: I have given you your priest’s office unto you as a service of gift; and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.” {Ms121-1899}

The tribe of Levi was given a specially significant position. They were to unite with others in taking charge of the TABERNACLE. “Thy brethren also of the tribe of Levi,” GOD said, “bring thou with thee, that they may be joined unto thee, and minister unto thee; but thou and thy sons with thee shall minister before the TABERNACLE of witness…. Behold, I have taken your brethren the Levites from among the children of Israel; to you they are given as a gift for the LORD, to do the service of the TABERNACLE of the congregation…. They shall keep thy charge and the charge of all the TABERNACLE: only they shall not come nigh the vessels of the SANCTUARY, and the ALTAR, that neither they, nor ye also, die. They shall be joined unto thee, and keep the charge of the TABERNACLE of the congregation, for all the service of the TABERNACLE; and a stranger shall not come nigh unto you.” {Ms121-1899}

In families and in the church there are too many who make little account of glaring inconsistencies. There are young men who appear what they are not. They seem honest and true; but they are like whited sepulchers, fair without, but corrupt to the core. The heart is spotted, stained with sin; thus the record stands in the heavenly courts. A process has been going on in the mind that has made them callous, past feeling. But if their characters, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, are pronounced wanting in the GREAT DAY OF GOD, it will be a calamity that they do not now comprehend. Truth, precious, untarnished truth, is to be a part of the character. {Ms122-1899}

CHRIST offered His broken body to purchase back GOD’S heritage, to give man another trial. “Therefore he is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for us.” By his spotless life, his obedience, his death on the cross of Calvary, CHRIST interceded for the lost race. And now not as a mere petitioner does the Captain of our Salvation intercede for us, but as a Conqueror claiming His victory. His offering is complete, and as our INTERCESSOR He executes His self-appointed work, holding before GOD the CENSER containing His own spotless merits and the prayers, confessions, and thanksgiving of His people. Perfumed with the fragrance of His righteousness, the INCENSE ascends to GOD as a sweet savor. The offering is wholly acceptable, and pardon covers all transgression. To the true believer CHRIST is indeed the minister of the SANCTUARY, officiating for him in the SANCTUARY and speaking through GOD’S appointed agencies. {Ms142-1899}

I am instructed to bear a message to those who minister by holding forth the WORD OF GOD to others. You must be converted. This is surely what you need. The SPIRITUAL anointing of the LORD will never come to self-sufficient men and women. Many who are in GOD’S service, proclaiming the truth by pen and voice, are not worked by the HOLY SPIRIT. Self has grown to large proportions. Until the soul is emptied of self and the HOLY SPIRIT takes possession, you will be unready for the coming of CHRIST. You will certainly be weighed in the golden scales of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and be found wanting. {Ms148-1899}

JESUS tested the young ruler by a true standard—the LAW OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, which requires man to love his neighbor as himself; and the ruler proved himself to be destitute of love either for GOD or man. He thought himself perfect, but he was weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. He was alienated from GOD, for he counted that which GOD had given him in trust as of far more value than heavenly treasure. He went away sorrowful, because he could not selfishly retain his possessions and at the same time have the pleasure of following CHRIST. {Ms150-1899}

True missionary work is that work in which the SAVIOUR’S work is best represented, His methods most closely copied, His glory best promoted. Missionary work that falls short of this standard is recorded in heaven as defective; it is weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. Never are physicians to neglect to direct the minds of their patients to CHRIST, the great Physician of soul and body. That which physicians only attempt to do, CHRIST accomplishes. The human agent strives to prolong life. CHRIST is life itself. {Ms159-1899} {Ms168-1899}

CHRIST had stood in the councils of GOD, He had dwelt in the innermost recesses of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and truths, unadulterated and original, were familiar to Him. He taught that which He knew, and testified that which He had seen. He was the TRUTH, the WORD OF GOD, the LIGHT OF LIFE, and He unfolded truth of the higher order. He was the WORD, the WISDOM OF GOD, and He spoke the truth as One having authority. His word was with power, because from His knowledge He was unfolding truth that can never perish—the WORDS OF ETERNAL LIFE. {Ms196-1899}

GOD teaches us that we should assemble in his house to cultivate the attributes of perfect love. This will fit the dwellers of earth for the mansions CHRIST has gone to prepare for those who love him, where, from SABBATH to SABBATH, from one new moon to another, they will assemble in the SANCTUARY to unite in loftier strains of song, in thanksgiving and praise to him that sitteth upon the THRONE and to the LAMB forever and ever. {RH, October 24, 1899 par. 6}

But much ignorance of GOD’S WORD prevails, even among those who preach this WORD. There are many teaching the WORD OF LIFE to others when they are themselves dull of comprehension. They do not bring the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. It is not a living reality to them, because they do not practise it. It has not been digested, and converted into SPIRITUAL muscle and sinew. {ST, January 11, 1899 par. 2}

But all the praise and glory are to be given to GOD. No human being is to seat himself on the highest seat, accepting the praise of others, and forgetting that his treasures belong to GOD. GOD’S blessing is promised to those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, but nothing is so offensive in His sight as to hunger and thirst after the praise of men. When the LORD weighs in the balances of the SANCTUARY the actions of those who have striven to be first, when they see how He regards such strife, they will bow low at His footstool, ashamed of their course of action. {ST, March 8, 1899 par. 7}

CHRIST took His position with the poor, that He might lift from poverty the stigma that the world has attached to it. He knows the danger of the love of riches. He knows that this love proves the ruin of many souls. It places those who are rich where they indulge every wish for grandeur. It develops the weakness of humanity, and shows that, notwithstanding their abundance, many of the rich are not rich toward GOD. The man possessing houses and lands, uplifted and deceived by the respect paid to him, looks down upon the poor man, who, nevertheless, may possess virtues that the rich man does not. When weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, the selfish, covetous rich man will be found wanting, while the poor man who has depended only upon GOD for his goodness, will be pronounced heir to ETERNAL riches. {ST, June 21, 1899 par. 4}

When we feel our heart need, when we long after the quickening influence of the HOLY SPIRIT, CHRIST draws nigh to us. Self is crucified. CHRIST lives in us, and the power of the SPIRIT attends our efforts; then the soul is refined and elevated. Light from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY shines upon us, and we are enabled to exert an influence which is a savor of life unto life. By a union with CHRIST, by living faith, we are privileged to enjoy the efficacy of His MEDIATION. We are crucified with CHRIST, buried with CHRIST, risen with CHRIST, to walk in newness of life. {ST, October 11, 1899 par. 15}

I appeal to the youth. Consider your ways. Take time to think. Weigh your actions, and see what advantage it will be to you to serve the purposes of Satan, and do his pleasure. In doing this, you dishonor GOD, and grieve the dear REDEEMER, who has paid the ransom for you by dying on the cross of Calvary. No power will be sufficient for you, compassed as you are by temptation, until CHRIST dwells in the heart by faith. Then you will make him your daily pattern, practising his virtues. You need to cherish that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. This faith will be revealed in your life when you make CHRIST your personal SAVIOUR. As you cast your helpless soul on CHRIST, you will receive pardon for past transgression; and the truth, brought into the SANCTUARY of the soul, will transform the whole character. {YI, August 3, 1899 par. 1}

GOD’S people are to be channels for the outworking of the highest influence in the universe. In Zechariah’s vision the two olive trees which stand before GOD are represented as emptying the golden oil out of themselves through golden tubes into the bowl of the SANCTUARY. From this the lamps of the SANCTUARY are fed, that they may give a continuous bright and shining light. So from the anointed ones that stand in GOD’S PRESENCE the fulness of divine light, and love, and power, is imparted to His people, that they may impart to others life and joy and refreshing. They are to become channels through which divine and human instrumentalities co-operate in communicating to the world the tide of GOD’S love. {AUCR, June 1, 1900 par. 47} {SW, May 15, 1906 par. 10}

The sower soweth the word. CHRIST came to sow the world with truth. Ever since the fall of man, Satan has been sowing the seeds of error. It was by a lie that he first gained control over men, and thus he still works to overthrow GOD’S kingdom in the earth and to bring men under his power. A sower from a higher world, CHRIST came to sow the seeds of truth. He who had stood in the councils of GOD, who had dwelt in the INNERMOST SANCTUARY of the ETERNAL, could bring to men the pure principles of truth. Ever since the fall of man, CHRIST had been the Revealer of truth to the world. By Him the incorruptible seed, “the WORD OF GOD, which liveth and abideth forever,” is communicated to men. 1 Peter 1:23. In that first promise spoken to our fallen race in Eden, CHRIST was sowing the gospel seed. But it is to His personal ministry among men and to the work which He thus established that the parable of the sower especially applies. {COL 37.1 1900}

He who dwells in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY judges righteously. His pleasure is more in His people, struggling with temptation in a world of sin, than in the host of angels that surround His THRONE. {COL 176.1 1900}

The warning was not heeded by the Jewish people. They forgot GOD, and lost sight of their high privilege as HIS REPRESENTATIVES. The blessings they had received brought no blessing to the world. All their advantages were appropriated for their own glorification. They robbed GOD of the service He required of them, and they robbed their fellow men of religious guidance and a holy example. Like the inhabitants of the antediluvian world, they followed out every imagination of their evil hearts. Thus they made sacred things appear a farce, saying, “The temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, are these” (Jeremiah 7:4), while at the same time they were misrepresenting GOD’S character, dishonoring His name, and polluting His SANCTUARY. {COL 291.2 1900}

We are to praise GOD by tangible service, by doing all in our power to advance the glory of His name. GOD imparts His gifts to us that we also may give, and thus make known His character to the world. Under the Jewish economy, gifts and offerings formed an essential part of GOD’S worship. The Israelites were taught to devote a tithe of all their income to the service of the SANCTUARY. Besides this they were to bring sin offerings, free-will gifts, and offerings of gratitude. These were the means for supporting the ministry of the gospel for that time. GOD expects no less from us than He expected from His people anciently. The great work for the salvation of souls must be carried forward. In the tithe, with gifts and offerings, He has made provision for this work. Thus He intends that the ministry of the gospel shall be sustained. He claims the tithe as His own, and it should ever be regarded as a sacred reserve, to be placed in His treasury for the benefit of His cause. He asks also for our free-will gifts and offerings of gratitude. All are to be devoted to the sending of the gospel unto the uttermost parts of the earth. {COL 300.3 1900}

But no man can impart that which he himself has not received. In the work of GOD, humanity can originate nothing. No man can by his own effort make himself a light bearer for GOD. It was the golden oil emptied by the heavenly messengers into the golden tubes, to be conducted from the golden bowl into the lamps of the SANCTUARY, that produced a continuous bright and shining light. It is the LOVE OF GOD continually transferred to man that enables him to impart light. Into the hearts of all who are united to GOD by faith the golden oil of love flows freely, to shine out again in good works, in real, heartfelt service for GOD. {COL 418.5 1900}

GOD is already writing the record of some cases, “Incurable.” “He is joined to his idols, let him alone.” The time is soon coming when the work of GOD’S judgment will begin at His SANCTUARY. GOD Himself is now drawing the separating line. He says, “As for me also, mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity, but I will recompense their way upon their own heads.” What carefulness should this work [be] in every soul who is striving for ETERNAL life. “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine,” CHRIST says, “no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” Keep this in mind. Every living branch is fruitful. What is the character of the fruit borne? It is the most precious fruit—love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. {Lt3-1900}

My brother I feel pained as I write. When I think of the TIME OF TROUBLE that is just upon us, or I may say has begun, but as yet has not burst upon us to the full, O how my heart aches, ready to burst, when I see human beings who are dependent upon GOD every moment for His keeping power yet who chide and become irritable and sore over supposed deficiencies or neglect of their brethren, who are carrying the heaviest responsibilities. I have heard people say, Such a minister passed me by and never looked at me at all, while these very men have come to me for counsel, their souls bowed down as a cart beneath sheaves, not because they supposed themselves slighted, but because they could not see how to relieve the pressure of debt upon the work. They prayed as they walked. They were not looking at anything earthly, but to the great sympathizing CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Every heart knoweth its own bitterness. {Lt48a-1900}

While on this earth we are to bear witness to GOD’S goodness by our obedience to HIS COMMANDMENTS. The LORD declares, “Ye shall keep my SABBATHS and reverence MY SANCTUARY: I am the LORD. If ye walk in my statutes and keep my commandments and do them, then will I give you rain in due season, and your land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. And your threshing shall reach unto the vintage, and the vintage shall reach unto the sowing time; and ye shall eat your bread to the full, and dwell in your land safely.” {Lt55-1900}

Many of the ministers will not hear and be convinced. They will not enter the SANCTUARY OF TRUTH to receive the knowledge of truth from the WORD, but will take away the key of knowledge from the people by perversion of the SCRIPTURES, wresting the WORD OF GOD from its true meaning. Thus every step gained in reaching the people to save them from being lost in error and disobedience requires a hard, constant battle. But shall it stop? No; lift up the standard. Plant memorials of GOD’S truth in every place possible, and conversions will be made. Some who do not take their stand at once will help advance the work with their means and with their sympathy. {Lt86-1900}

The song of Miriam was inspired of GOD. Led by her the children of Israel sang, “Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? Thou stretchest out thy right hand, the earth swallowed them. Thou in thy mercy hath led forth the people which thou hast redeemed: thou hast guided them in thy strength to thy holy habitation…. Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them on the mountain of thine inheritance, in the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in; in the SANCTUARY, O LORD, which thy hands have established.” {Ms28-1900}

He knew he had not done either of these, and the conviction of his neglect to obey the first four commandments and the last six commandments plainly specified in the words of the HOLY oracles of GOD was impressed by the HOLY SPIRIT upon his heart. He saw himself weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. He did not serve GOD supremely because he had not loved Him supremely, with his whole heart, with all his soul, and all his strength, and with all his mind. Lacking decidedly in this requirement of JEHOVAH’S law, he failed decidedly to love his neighbor as himself. {Ms45-1900}

The religious services, the prayers, the praise, the penitent confession of sin, ascend from true believers as INCENSE to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, but passing through the corrupt channels of humanity, they are so defiled that unless purified by blood, they can never be of value with GOD. They ascend not in spotless purity, and unless the INTERCESSOR who is at GOD’S right hand presents and purifies all by His righteousness, it is not acceptable to GOD. All INCENSE from earthly TABERNACLES must be moist with the CLEANSING drops of the BLOOD OF CHRIST. He holds before the FATHER the censor of His own merits, in which there is no taint of earthly corruption. He gathers into this censor the prayers, the praise, and the confessions of His people, and with these He puts His own spotless righteousness. Then, perfumed with the merits of CHRIST’S propitiation, the INCENSE comes up before GOD wholly and entirely acceptable. Then gracious answers are returned. {Ms50-1900}

Here is a people that demand labor, persevering effort, to set before them their true condition. They feel perfectly satisfied. But the world’s REDEEMER has weighed them in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and He pronounces them wanting. In their present condition they are offensive in the sight of GOD. Their disobedience and transgression makes them so lukewarm, their ways and works develop in them traits of character so objectionable, that CHRIST cannot take their name upon His lips. With abhorrence He will sprue them out of His mouth as disgusting. {Ms52-1900}

Then the LORD gave Moses the directions in regard to building a SANCTUARY and the pattern of the ARK also was given him. When the people saw that Moses did not come down from the mount, they became discontented. Their unbelief began to reveal itself in a marked manner. (See Exodus 32.) {Ms58-1900}

Thou shalt rejoice in every good thing.” Were children by precept and example thus educated and trained in the home life, we should see a vital element of heavenly grace as a great educating force circulating through all our schools. If parents would give this class of education to their children there would be cheerfulness in the home life, and the youth would bring a spirit of reverence with them into the schoolroom. And what then? There would be an attendance in the SANCTUARY where GOD meets with His people, an attendance at all His appointed holy ordinances in the WORSHIP OF GOD, and in all these there would be expressions of thankfulness for the enjoyment of all the gifts of His providence. Thanksgiving and praise should be expressed for whatever comforts GOD bestows upon families. {Ms68-1900}

Parents, during the week live as in the sight of a HOLY GOD, who has given you children that you may train them for Him. Train for Him the little church in your home, that when the SABBATH comes they may be prepared to worship in the LORD’S SANCTUARY. Each morning and evening present your children to GOD as His blood-bought heritage. Teach them that their highest duty and privilege is to love and serve GOD. Teach them that in Him they live and move and have their being. Let the prayer at the commencement of the SABBATH be a prayer of consecration and devotion. {Ms70-1900}

There is no excuse for the faith of our churches to be so faint and feeble. “Turn you to the Stronghold, ye prisoners of hope.” There is strength for us in CHRIST. Then let us worship GOD in the beauty of holiness. Let us enter His SANCTUARY with praise and thanksgiving. CHRIST speaks to us, saying, “I know thy works.” “I am he that liveth and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore.” Our SAVIOUR is not lying in Joseph’s new tomb. He has proclaimed over the sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Then do not take your sorrows and difficulties to man. Present yourself to Him whose you are by creation and by redemption. Ask, and ye shall receive. {Ms78-1900}

And thou, Solomon my SON, know thou the GOD of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the SANCTUARY: be strong and do it. {Ms81-1900}

All who did service in connection with the SANCTUARY were being educated constantly in regard to the intervention of CHRIST in behalf of the human race. This service was designed to create in every heart a love for the LAW OF GOD, which is the law of His kingdom. The sacrificial offering was to be an object lesson of the LOVE OF GOD revealed in CHRIST—in the suffering, dying victim, who took upon Himself the sin of which man was guilty, the innocent being made sin for us. {Ms87-1900}

Satan devises, through his masterly deceiving power, to make evil appear as righteousness, to keep men working in his line, that those whom GOD has entrusted with great responsibilities shall be perverted from His allegiance and serve his purposes. “Thou hast defiled thy SANCTUARIES by the multitude of thine iniquities.” This represents a corrupt SPIRITUAL administration. The influence that is gained through positions of trust is used for selfish purposes instead of for the good of others who stand approved before GOD more than they, for their dependence is in GOD, and they are seeking His glory and not their own. Even now Satan is continuing and advancing in the same line in which he began. He rules by the same laws. In heaven he lost his self-sacrificing principle and unselfish care for his associates, and little by little he introduced a new order of things, consulting his own hand. {Ms59-1900}

There is ever to be in the treasury of the LORD means to be used for the enlarging of His territory and the building of SANCTUARIES where those who accept present truth may worship Him in the beauty of holiness. GOD calls upon His people to bring of their means, in tithes and freewill offerings, to Him, that His workers may have facilities wherewith to establish memorials for Him in villages, towns, and cities. These memorials will constantly bear witness that after creating the earth in six days, GOD gave the seventh day to His people as a day of rest, to be a sign between Him and them, that they might know that He was the LORD who sanctified them. {Ms73-1900}

The case of Uzziah the king reveals how GOD will punish the sin of presumption. The inspired record states of this king: “Sixteen years old was Uzziah when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and two years in Jerusalem. . . . And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah did. And he sought GOD in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of GOD: and as long as he sought the LORD, GOD made him to prosper. . . . But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his GOD, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn INCENSE upon the ALTAR OF INCENSE. And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men: and they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn INCENSE unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn INCENSE: go out of the SANCTUARY; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honor from the LORD GOD.” {RH, August 14, 1900 par. 6}

From this fountain flows the mighty river seen in Ezekiel’s vision. “These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live. . . . And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the SANCTUARY: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” Ezekiel 47:8-12. {6T 227.3 1901}

Because of their neglect the LORD has looked with disfavor upon the church. A love of ease and selfish indulgence has been shown by many. Some who have had the privilege of knowing BIBLE TRUTH have not brought it into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. GOD holds all these accountable for the talents which they have not returned to Him in honest, faithful service in making every effort possible to seek and to save those who were lost. These slothful servants are represented as coming to the wedding supper without the wedding garment, the robe of the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST. They have nominally accepted the truth, but they do not practice it. Professedly circumcised, they are in reality among the uncircumcised. {6T 295.2 1901}

In all that pertains to the success of GOD’S work, the very first victories are to be won in the home life. Here the preparation for the SABBATH must begin. Throughout the week let parents remember that their home is to be a school in which their children shall be prepared for the courts above. Let their words be right words. No words which their children should not hear are to escape their lips. Let the spirit be kept free from irritation. Parents, during the week live as in the sight of a HOLY GOD, who has given you children to train for Him. Train for Him the little church in your home, that on the SABBATH all may be prepared to worship in the LORD’S SANCTUARY. Each morning and evening present your children to GOD as His blood-bought heritage. Teach them that it is their highest duty and privilege to love and serve GOD. {6T 354.1 1901}

In the work in the Sanitarium, physicians, matron, and nurses are to co-operate with GOD in restoring the sick to health. In doing this, they co-operate with Him in restoring His image in the soul. Let us not limit the HOLY ONE of Israel. Is not CHRIST officiating for us in the SANCTUARY above, at the right hand of GOD? Is He not making intercession for those who are suffering physically and those who are suffering SPIRITUALLY? He invites them to come to Him who was dead, but is alive forevermore. {AUCR, April 1, 1901 par. 4}

It is not for you to dissect the ideas of this one and that one. We served our time at this at Minneapolis. Let there be no more of it in the work of GOD. GOD wants us to realize that judgment is right upon us. Let us beware lest before we are aware of it, the thief comes upon us with stealthy tread. Let us stand where we look not at the defects and errors of others, but at JESUS, saying, “I have an individual case pending in the heavenly courts. It means everything to me whether I shall be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found complete in him, or whether I shall be found wanting.” {GCB, April 16, 1901 par. 15}

The truth of GOD for this time is testing character. The time has come when the lives of all are to be examined in the light of GOD’S LAW. Those who are following the example of men who are not following the example of CHRIST will have to meet a plain “Thus saith the LORD” in the day of final accounts. Those who have trusted in their own righteousness, who have thought they could be a law to themselves, who have refused to submit to GOD’S will, will find themselves weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. GOD calls upon all to meet His standard of righteousness. All must bow to His authority. Fathers, ministers, physicians, men in authority, those who have positions of responsibility, will be held accountable for the influence their position gives them over other minds. {Lt8-1901}

At this time, the only safety of those who are keeping GOD’S COMMANDMENTS is in being of one heart, bound up with CHRIST and with one another, hid with CHRIST in GOD. John 13:33-35. The SAVIOUR looks upon the coming conflict, and He calls upon His people to strengthen themselves by taking hold of His strength, by making peace with Him, so that when they are challenged, as they will be, GOD can give them the experience of Jacob, enabling them to claim the words of the promise: “Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them! it shall be an everlasting covenant; and I will place them, and multiply them, and set MY SANCTUARY in the midst of them forevermore. Yea, I will be their GOD, and they shall be my people. And the heathen shall know that I the LORD do sanctify Israel, when MY SANCTUARY shall be in the midst of them.” {Lt19-1901}

The ministers of GOD must be ministers of righteousness, who always wear the YOKE OF CHRIST and always follow the path of justice and integrity. No words caused by religious dyspepsia should be spoken. GOD has a people on this earth, and those who minister in WORD and doctrine must be one, as CHRIST is one with the FATHER. The LORD desires all to draw together in even cords as they engage in the solemn services of His SANCTUARY. As GOD meets with His people, let not those who are leading the service seek to draw the people to themselves. Let them say instead, “GOD is among us. We are in the presence of Him whom we have come to worship. It is His will that all who worship Him shall respect and love one another, carrying out the instruction given by CHRIST just before His crucifixion. John 17:19-26. {Lt19-1901}

Those who ignore or make little of CHRIST’S answer to the lawyer will find themselves weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY and pronounced wanting. GOD accepts not a divided heart. {Lt22-1901}

Removing the shoes from the feet when entering the house of worship is not a duty required of us. Anciently those who ministered in sacred office were required, upon entering the SANCTUARY of GOD, to remove their sandals, and wash their feet, on which dust had accumulated. But there is not the least occasion for this to be done now. {Lt29-1901}

I might say much more, but have not the strength today. You are already confused by men whose counsel is erratic. If you will come out from these men and be separate, you will be in a much better position to advance the work. There is no safety in following the counsel of men who are not vivified by the HOLY SPIRIT, but must be reformed, else they will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY and found wanting. {Lt68-1901}

GOD’S workers do not receive in this world much reward for their labor, but they are laying up treasure in heaven. A gracious reward awaits them there. Those who think that they must use means in making a display will lose many precious opportunities, and unless they change their course of action, they will at last be weighed in the golden balances of the SANCTUARY and be found wanting. {Lt110-1901}

All who are partakers of the divine nature will realize that the HOLY SPIRIT works with them, taking the truth from the SACRED WORD, where CHRIST has placed it, and stamping it upon the soul. But we are in great peril of keeping the truth in the outer court, neglecting to bring it into the SANCTUARY of the soul. Earnestly and solemnly we should prepare ourselves for the CLEANSING of the soul-temple, remembering that we are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. This work, when thoroughly done, will CLEANSE the heart from all disunion, all strife, all desire for the supremacy. Contention, strife, evil thinking and evil speaking are the enemy’s tares, which he plants in the human heart to spring up and bear a baleful crop. An evil work always follows selfish superiority. {Ms14-1901}

Much has been said about the college and the church standing distinct and separate. This cannot be. The same education is necessary in the church as in the school. The gospel preached in the SANCTUARY is to be the gospel taught in the school. Those who attend the school are to be fitted for service in the church. {Ms24-1901}

Let us make diligent efforts to serve GOD. We need to reach a higher standard. The truth must not be kept in the outer court. Bring its principles into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul. Make CHRIST the guide of every action. Separate all selfishness from soul, body, and spirit. Hate it; for it is the destroyer of peace and Godliness. “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the LORD JESUS, giving thanks to GOD and the FATHER by him.” The grace of our SAVIOUR is the grand, healing influence which conforms the life to the life of GOD. {Ms47-1901}

The corrupted morality that is being brought in is destroying the sacredness of these institutions that are established to honor and glorify GOD. A married man who selects some young girl and pays her special attention does a great injury to himself and to the one selected, and deeply wrongs his wife. Thus he places in peril an institution which, as GOD’S SANCTUARY, should stand forth without a taint of corruption. O, it is such a pity that Satan has so many helpers in those who ought to act as CHRIST’S helping hand, by their example leading the youth to a higher standard of purity. {Ms87-1901}

CHRIST laid aside His crown and royal robe, stepped down from His high command, clothed His divinity with humanity, and for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might inherit the heavenly treasure. He placed Himself at the head of humanity. If we walk in His footsteps, we are accepted by GOD. By CHRIST’S sacrifice we are “accepted in the BELOVED.” As the prayers of CHRIST ascended to His FATHER, notwithstanding the dark shadow of the powers of darkness through which they passed, so will our prayers cleave through the hellish shadow of Satan and enter the SANCTUARY above. The same glory which flashed from the threshold of heaven at the time of CHRIST’S baptism is revealed to every earnest seeker of CHRIST. {Ms92-1901}

As followers of CHRIST we do not realize our true position. We do not have correct views of our responsibilities. We are stewards of our LORD, and the interests and prosperity of His cause should receive our first and best attention. In the balances of the SANCTUARY our gifts are not estimated according to the amount given, but according to the self-denial, prompted by love for CHRIST, that the gift has cost. {PUR, October 24, 1901 par. 3}

The cases of all are pending in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Day by day angels of GOD are watching the development of character, and weighing moral worth. In the Judgment the question will not be, “What profession did you make?” but, “What have you done for Me? What fruit have you borne to My glory?” Now is the time to prepare for the coming King. Cultivate the mind; for it is capable of the highest cultivation. Prepare to be among those who shall be saved with an everlasting salvation when the MASTER comes to gather out His jewels. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” {ST, April 17, 1901 par. 16}

Overcoming, means much more than we realize. It means resisting the enemy and drawing nigh to GOD. It means taking up the cross and following CHRIST, doing cheerfully those things that are contrary to natural inclination. CHRIST came from heaven to show us how to live a life of self-sacrifice. In His strength we are to gain perfection. He has made it possible for us to do this, and when He comes the second time, He will ask us why we have not fulfilled His purpose for us. Day by day, hour by hour, we are preparing for the judgment, deciding our ETERNAL destiny. We are trading on our LORD’S goods. When He comes, He will reckon with us, to see how we have improved His goods. Results proportionate to the talents entrusted will be required, and to every faithful, self-denying Christian will be given a reward proportionate to his work. Nothing that is done in sincerity is in vain. Everything is accurately weighed in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY. {ST, July 17, 1901 par. 5}

In the SANCTUARY of the home, JESUS received his education, not merely from his parents, but from HIS HEAVENLY FATHER. As he grew older, GOD opened to him more and more of the great work before him. But notwithstanding his knowledge of this, he assumed no airs of superiority. Never did he by disrespect cause his parents pain or anxiety. He delighted to honor and obey them. Although he was not ignorant of his great mission, he consulted their wishes, and submitted to their authority. {YI, August 22, 1901 par. 2}

Then the work will move forward with solidity and redoubled strength. To the workers in every line will be imparted a new efficiency. The publications sent forth as GOD’S messengers will bear the signet of the ETERNAL. Rays of light from the SANCTUARY above will attend the precious truths they bear. As never before, they will have power to awaken in souls a conviction of sin, to create a hungering and thirsting after righteousness, to beget a lively solicitude for the things that will never pass away. Men will learn of the reconciliation for iniquity and of the everlasting righteousness which the MESSIAH has brought in through His sacrifice. Many will be brought to share the glorious liberty of the sons of GOD, and will stand with GOD’S people to welcome the soon coming, in power and glory, of our LORD and SAVIOUR. {7T 149.2 1902}

My brethren in responsible positions, may the LORD not only anoint your eyes that they may see, but pour into your hearts the HOLY OIL that from the two olive branches flows through the golden pipes into the golden bowl which feeds the lamps of the SANCTUARY. May He “give unto you the SPIRIT of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, . . . and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe.” Ephesians 1:17-19. {7T 154.2 1902}

The powers of Satan are mustering for battle. Stern conflicts are before us. Press together, my brethren and sisters, press together. Bind up with CHRIST. “Say ye not, A Confederacy; . . . neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY to his people; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” {BTS, December 1, 1902 par. 1}

Man must not only read the WORD OF GOD, supposing that a casual knowledge of this WORD will bring about in him a reformation of character. This work only the One who is the way, the truth, and the life can accomplish. Firmly may certain doctrines of truth be held. Again and again they may be reiterated, till the holders come to think that they are indeed in possession of the great blessings which these doctrines represent. But the greatest, most powerful truths may be held, and yet kept in the outer court, exerting little influence to make the daily life wholesome and fragrant. The soul is not sanctified through the truth that is not practiced. Correct precepts may be uttered by the one who does not receive the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, but when his track is crossed, the worst of all feelings are aroused, and these feelings guide and control him in his dealings with others. In spirit and life such a one is represented by Chorazin and Bethsaida. {Lt16-1902}

The mission of the two anointed ones is to communicate to GOD’S people that heavenly grace which alone can make His WORD a lamp to the feet and a light to the path. From the two olive trees the golden oil was emptied through the golden pipes into the bowl of the CANDLESTICK, and thence into the golden lamps that gave light to the SANCTUARY. So from the holy ones that stand in GOD’S PRESENCE, HIS SPIRIT is imparted to the human instrumentalities that are consecrated to His service. {Lt67-1902}

There is much that I now feel it my duty to present not simply to Dr. Kellogg, but to our people, in regard to the great and solemn truth for this time, which is to go to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. If those in charge of our medical work had realized their obligation to GOD, if they had spent a large portion of their time, energies, talents, and means in doing true medical missionary work, through this agency carrying the gospel to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples, the SPIRITUAL condition of Battle Creek today would not be what it is. The people of that city are not led to have faith in the doctrines that we claim to believe and ADVOCATE; for our works there bear a more weighty testimony than our words. GOD notices all this. In the scales of His SANCTUARY He is weighing not profession, but character—intents, motives, purposes. In the day when GOD renders to every man according to his works, it will be found that the destiny of each worker will be decided by the principles and motives that guided him during this life. {Lt110-1902}

You are on losing ground, and have been for some time. You have been taught the way of truth, and your parents have great confidence in your principles, but GOD has weighed you in the balances of the SANCTUARY and has pronounced the sentence, “Weighed and found wanting.” My brother, should your life be taken from you now, your loss would be a loss for all eternity. You have a great work before you, and you have not a moment to lose. Satan is playing the game of life for your soul. You are on the losing side. You are grasping thistles. Your association with those who are not consecrated to GOD gives you neither physical soundness nor SPIRITUAL strength. {Lt142-1902}

I the LORD search the heart,” He declares, “I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways and according to the fruit of his doings. As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. A glorious high THRONE from the beginning is the place of our SANCTUARY. O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters. Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise.” “O LORD, my strength and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction.” {Lt142-1902}

There is danger that the restaurant work, though regarded as a wonderfully successful way of doing good, will be so conducted that it will promote merely the physical good of men and women. This matter needs careful attention. Those chosen to manage this work must be careful, consecrated men, lest investigation prove that the cause of GOD is not advanced by the efforts put forth. A work may apparently bear the features of supreme excellence, but it is not good in GOD’S sight unless it is performed with an earnest desire to do His will and fulfil His purpose. If GOD is not recognized as the Author and End of our actions, they are weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting. {Lt145-1902}

In the family and in the church there are too many who make little account of glaring inconsistencies. There are young men who appear what they are not. They seem honest and true; but they are like whited sepulchers, fair without, but full of corruption within. The heart is spotted, stained with sin; thus the record stands in the heavenly courts. A process has been going on in the mind that has made them callous, past feeling. But if their characters, weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, are pronounced wanting in the GREAT DAY OF GOD, it will be a calamity that they do not now comprehend. Truth, precious, untarnished truth, is to be a part of the character. {MC 59.1 1902}

I was referred to Ezekiel’s vision of the mighty river. “These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea; which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live…. And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed; it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the SANCTUARY; and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” Let all physicians be wise to learn. {Ms41-1902}

The Passover was the most impressive and important of the Jewish Feasts. The Jewish leaders had instructed the people that at Jerusalem they were to be taught to worship GOD. Here during the Passover week large numbers assembled, coming from all parts of Palestine, and even from distant lands. The temple courts were filled with a promiscuous throng. Many were unable to bring with them the sacrifices that were to be offered up as typifying the one great Sacrifice. For the convenience of these, animals were bought and sold in the outer court of the temple. Here all classes of people assembled to purchase their offerings. Here all foreign money was exchanged for the coin of the SANCTUARY. {Ms60-1902}

CHRIST knew the truth in regard to Joshua, and He said to those that stood before Him, “Take away the filthy garments from him;” and to Joshua He said, “Behold, I have caused thine iniquity”—the sins thou hast committed—“to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with a change of raiment.” “So they set a fair miter on his head, and clothed him with a change of raiment.” “So they set a fair miter on his head, and clothed him with garments.” His own sins and the sins of his people were pardoned. Israel was clothed with “change of raiment”—the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST imputed to them. The miter placed on Joshua’s head was such as was used by the priests and bore the inscription, “Holiness to the LORD,” signifying that notwithstanding his former transgressions, he was now qualified to minister before GOD in His SANCTUARY. {Ms70-1902}

As yet we have scarcely been a light in the world, because we cling to our sinful, corrupting practices. We have been too well satisfied with the twilight glow of heavenly enlightenment. We have not yet gained the experience that will make us feel at home in heaven. As yet we are but stepping over the threshold of the SANCTUARY containing the truths which every child of GOD must receive and reveal to a world lying in wickedness. {Ms102-1902}

Our health institutions are of value in the LORD’S estimation only when He is allowed to preside in their management. If His plans and devisings are regarded as inferior to plans of men, He looks upon these institutions as of no more value than the institutions established and conducted by worldlings. GOD cannot endorse any institution unless it teaches the living principles of His law and brings its own actions into strict conformity to these precepts. Upon those institutions that are not maintained according to His law, He pronounces the sentence, “Unaccepted. Weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and found wanting.” {Ms154-1902}

When CHRIST ascended to heaven at the close of His earthly ministry, the gates of the city of GOD were thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and He entered as a conqueror, there to take up in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY His ministry in behalf of those for whom He had given His life. The divine-human SON OF GOD is now standing before the FATHER, pleading our cases and making ATONEMENT for our transgressions. Thus He confesses our names before His FATHER and before the angels. His hands still bear the marks of the crucifixion. He exclaims, “Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands!” He desires that we shall finally enter the heavenly city as conquerors. Through the grace that He constantly imparts to humanity, he is preparing a people to live with Him throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. And every one who chooses to follow Him may receive this preparation. Let us glorify His name by accepting the salvation so freely offered to us. {Ms155-1902}

It should ever be the aim of husband and wife to make their united life all that GOD designs it to be to them and to their children. Parents, remember that the training of your children is your lifework. Take heed to yourselves. Critically examine your hearts to see whether you are under the control of GOD’S grace. Are you cultivating traits of character that will recommend your Christianity? Do you, when trying circumstances arise, search the SCRIPTURES with humble, prayerful hearts? Are you in subordination to the WORD OF GOD? Are you a doer of this WORD? Here in the SANCTUARY of the home, GOD’S work for your children is to begin. Remember that you are under solemn obligations to fulfil your trust, to make yourselves examples of what you desire your children to become. Do not fail to give your children, from their infancy, the patient instruction they have a right to receive. {Ms158-1902}

GOD can communicate with his people today, and give them wisdom to do his will, just as he communicated with his people of old, and gave them wisdom in building the SANCTUARY. “The LORD spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel the SON of Uri, the SON of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the SPIRIT OF GOD, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship. And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the SON of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise-hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee; the TABERNACLE of the congregation, and the ARK of the testimony, and the MERCY SEAT that is thereupon, and all the FURNITURE of the TABERNACLE, and the table and his FURNITURE, and the pure candlestick with all his FURNITURE, and the ALTAR OF INCENSE, and the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING with all his FURNITURE, and the LAVER and his foot, and the cloths of service, and the HOLY GARMENTS for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest’s office, and the anointing oil, and sweet INCENSE for the HOLY PLACE: according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do.” {RH, June 24, 1902 par. 3}

By prayer man is braced for duty and prepared for trial. Morning and evening our earnest prayers should ascend to GOD for His blessing and guidance. True prayer takes hold upon OMNIPOTENCE, and gains the victory. Upon his knees the Christian obtains strength to resist temptation. And while engaged in our daily work, we should lift the soul to heaven in prayer. It was thus that Enoch walked with GOD. The silent, fervent prayer of the soul rises like holy INCENSE to the THRONE OF GRACE, and is as acceptable to GOD as if offered in the SANCTUARY. To all who thus seek Him, CHRIST is a present help in time of need. In the day of trial they will be brave and strong. {ST, January 29, 1902 par. 2}

But the people were slow to learn the lesson. Accustomed as they had been in Egypt to material representations of the Deity, and these of the most degrading nature, it was difficult for them to conceive of the existence or the character of the Unseen One. In pity for their weakness, GOD gave them a symbol of His presence. “Let them make Me a SANCTUARY,” He said; “that I may dwell among them.” Exodus 25:8. {Ed 35.1 1903}

In the building of the SANCTUARY as a dwelling place for GOD, Moses was directed to make all things according to the pattern of things in the heavens. GOD called him into the mount, and revealed to him the heavenly things, and in their similitude the TABERNACLE, with all that pertained to it, was fashioned. {Ed 35.2 1903}

Great was the privilege and honor granted Israel in the preparation of the SANCTUARY; and great was also the responsibility. A structure of surpassing splendor, demanding for its construction the most costly material and the highest artistic skill, was to be erected in the wilderness, by a people just escaped from slavery. It seemed a stupendous task. But He who had given the plan of the building stood pledged to co-operate with the builders. {Ed 36.4 1903}

The LORD spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel the Son of Uri, the Son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah: and I have filled him with the SPIRIT OF GOD, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. . . . And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the Son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wisehearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” Exodus 31:1-6. {Ed 36.51903}

What an industrial school was that in the wilderness, having for its instructors CHRIST and His angels! {Ed 37.1 1903}

In the preparation of the SANCTUARY and in its furnishing, all the people were to co-operate. There was labor for brain and hand. A great variety of material was required, and all were invited to contribute as their own hearts prompted. {Ed 37.2 1903}

True education is not the forcing of instruction on an unready and unreceptive mind. The mental powers must be awakened, the interest aroused. For this, GOD’S method of teaching provided. He who created the mind and ordained its laws, provided for its development in accordance with them. In the home and the SANCTUARY, through the things of nature and of art, in labor and in festivity, in sacred building and memorial stone, by methods and rites and symbols unnumbered, GOD gave to Israel lessons illustrating His principles and preserving the memory of His wonderful works. Then, as inquiry was made, the instruction given impressed mind and heart. {Ed 41.2 1903}

The FEAST OF TABERNACLES, or harvest festival, with its offerings from orchard and field, its week’s encampment in the leafy booths, its social reunions, the sacred memorial service, and the generous hospitality to GOD’S workers, the Levites of the SANCTUARY, and to His children, the strangers and the poor, uplifted all minds in gratitude to Him who had crowned the year with His goodness, and whose paths dropped fatness. {Ed 42.3 1903}

By the devout in Israel, fully a month of every year was occupied in this way. It was a period free from care and labor, and almost wholly devoted, in the truest sense, to purposes of education. {Ed 43.1 1903}

In apportioning the inheritance of His people, it was GOD’S purpose to teach them, and through them the people of after generations, correct principles concerning the ownership of the land. The land of Canaan was divided among the whole people, the Levites only, as ministers of the SANCTUARY, being excepted. Though one might for a season dispose of his possession, he could not barter away the inheritance of his children. When able to do so, he was at liberty at any time to redeem it; debts were remitted every seventh year, and in the FIFTIETH, or YEAR OF JUBILEE, all landed property reverted to the original owner. Thus every family was secured in its possession, and a safeguard was afforded against the extremes either of wealth or of poverty. {Ed 43.2 1903}

In both the school and the home much of the teaching was oral; but the youth also learned to read the Hebrew writings, and the parchment rolls of the OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES were open to their study. The chief subjects of study in these schools were the LAW OF GOD, with the instruction given to Moses, sacred history, sacred music, and poetry. In the records of sacred history were traced the footsteps of JEHOVAH. The great truths set forth by the types in the service of the SANCTUARY were brought to view, and faith grasped the central object of all that system–the LAMB OF GOD, that was to take away the sin of the world. A spirit of devotion was cherished. Not only were the students taught the duty of prayer, but they were taught how to pray, how to approach their CREATOR, how to exercise faith in Him, and how to understand and obey the teachings of HIS SPIRIT. Sanctified intellect brought forth from the TREASURE HOUSE OF GOD things new and old, and the SPIRIT OF GOD was manifested in prophecy and sacred song. {Ed 47.2 1903}

In the TEACHER sent from GOD, heaven gave to men its best and greatest. He who had stood in the councils of the MOST HIGH, who had dwelt in the INNERMOST SANCTUARY of the ETERNAL, was the One chosen to reveal in person to humanity the knowledge of GOD. {Ed 73.2 1903}

The appointed ministers of the SANCTUARY, the Levites received no landed inheritance; they dwelt together in cities set apart for their use, and received their support from the tithes and the gifts and offerings devoted to GOD’S service. They were the teachers of the people, guests at all their festivities, and everywhere honored as servants and representatives of GOD. To the whole nation was given the command: “Take heed to thyself that thou forsake not the Levite as long as thou livest upon the earth.” “Levi hath no part nor inheritance with his brethren; the LORD is his inheritance.” Deuteronomy 12:19; 10:9. {Ed 148.5 1903}

Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Do you fear lest by your spirit and your words you shall offend GOD? “It is GOD that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” “Ye are GOD’S husbandry; ye are GOD’S building.” The SANCTUARY, built by the church in the wilderness, according to the directions given to Moses in the mount, was an object-lesson of what their characters should be in simplicity, in beauty, in harmony. Part fitted perfectly to part. When the congregation moved from one place to another, the TABERNACLE was taken apart and carried with them, and when they encamped, it was erected again. In this work, different tasks were assigned to different ones. Each one had a specified task. There was no discord; for each one had his work. {GCB, April 6, 1903 par. 31}

JESUS is ministering in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, but He is with His workers also; for He declares, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” He is the SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR of His church on earth, and He longs to see the members filled with a determination to labor harmoniously for the advancement of His kingdom. He has raised up a succession of workers who derive their authority from Him, the GREAT TEACHER. He has chosen for His work men of varied talents and varied capabilities. Some of these might not be the men you would choose, but you will pass through an experience that will lead you to see that GOD exalts men whom you would regard as inferior to yourselves. When the judgment shall sit, and the books are opened, many will be surprised by GOD’S estimate of character. They will realize that GOD sees not as man sees, that He judges not as human beings judge. He reads the heart. He knows the motives that prompt to action, and He recognizes and commends every faithful effort put forth for Him. {Lt21-1903}

The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” Two people may engage in the same acts of outward worship, yet the service of one, when weighed in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY, may be found wanting, while the service of the other may be accepted. Only the service that is performed in sincerity, with a humble, contrite heart, is acceptable to GOD. {Lt39-1903}

At Sinai GOD sought to impress Israel with the holiness of His character and requirements and the exceeding guilt of transgression. But the people were slow to learn the lesson. Accustomed as they had been in Egypt to material representations of the deity, and these of the most degrading nature, it was difficult for them to conceive of the existence or the character of the Unseen One. In pity for their weakness, GOD gave them a symbol of His presence. “Let them make me a SANCTUARY,” He said, “that I may dwell among them.” {Lt44-1903}

It was under His direction that the TABERNACLE was built. Great was the privilege and honor granted Israel in the preparation of the SANCTUARY; and great also was the responsibility. A structure of surpassing splendor, demanding for its construction the most costly material and the highest artistic skill, was to be erected in the wilderness by a people just escaped from sLAVERy. It seemed a stupendous task. But He who had given the plan of the building stood pledged to co-operate with the builders. {Lt44-1903}

Let the sanitarium at Washington be built as the LORD has instructed us to build all our sanitariums. Let it be plain, yet substantial, convenient, and attractive. Let everything be clean and orderly. As we shall endeavor to do this work, let us seek wisdom from GOD at every step, that the laborers may be under the direction of the One who gave skill and understanding in the building of the ARK and the SANCTUARY. We are not to erect a building that will lead to expressions of astonishment and admiration, unless it be for its consistency with the truth for this time, truth that we as Seventh-day Adventists profess to believe. {Lt223-1903}

I could say much regarding the SANCTUARY; the ARK containing the LAW OF GOD; the cover of the ak, which is the MERCY SEAT; the angels at either end of the ARK; and other things connected with the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and with the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. I could say much regarding the mysteries of heaven; but my lips are closed. I have no inclination to try to describe them. {Lt253-1903}

GOD will be the SANCTUARY of His people if they will obey His WORD, believing and proclaiming the simple gospel truths that CHRIST proclaimed when in this world. We need now to pray as we have never prayed before. We are living in the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, and we are to confess our sins and make diligent work of repentance. We are to put all our capabilities to work, that we may be delivered from wicked and unreasonable men. Satan comes down as a beautiful angel and presents lovely pictures before the eyes of those who have so perverted their ways before GOD that they do not see what they are or know what they need. The enemy has come down with great power, to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. GOD calls for repentance and reconversion. {Lt259-1903}

In that day of His coming, CHRIST will preserve those who have followed Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He has pledged Himself to be their SANCTUARY. He says to them, Enter thou into a safe retreat for a little moment, and hide thee until I shall CLEANSE the earth from her iniquity. {Lt264-1903}

Make the WORD OF GOD the man of your counsel. It will be a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. Study the WORD to see what GOD has revealed in regard to who He is. He is ‘the ALMIGHTY,’ ‘from everlasting to everlasting,’ an unerring Guide. Upon whom else would you venture to depend in times of difficulty? What folly could be greater than to set aside the wisdom of GOD and accept the wisdom of him who fell from his exalted position in heaven as a covering cherub and who has become the head of an apostate race? Will you unite with the archdeceiver? Will you receive his deceptive falsehoods? Shall it continue to be said of you, ‘Thou art weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and art found wanting’?” {Lt265-1903}

The LORD knows all about your perplexities. If you will trust fully in Him, He will be to you a SANCTUARY. But do not try to maintain the interpretations of the word that you formerly held, for they are not truth. Set yourself to work in co-operation with GOD. You need to come to the light, and then your views will be altogether different from those you now hold. Pray to your HEAVENLY FATHER in the name of JESUS. He loves you, but He wants you to give up the theories and doctrines you hold that are contrary to His WORD. {Lt267-1903}

The SANCTUARY question is a clear and definite doctrine as we have held it as a people. You are not definitely clear on the personality of GOD, which is everything to us as a people. You have virtually destroyed the LORD GOD Himself. {Lt300-1903}

Why should you take the liberty to make the statements which you have made, as though you had authority for thus stating, when they are falsehoods? You have made the facts of our faith of none effect before unbelievers, and the truth which should ever be kept prominent and exalted with this people you have virtually denied and ignored in your many statements. How dared you to do this? It necessitates us now to present our true position which constitutes us Seventh-day Adventists. Whatever influence GOD has given you in the past has been in mercy to you, letting the light shine upon you. {Lt300-1903}

We cannot for a moment have any misrepresentation upon these solemn and important subjects of truth which have been the faith of our people since 1844. This means much to us. The LORD would have me say to you that the enemy has, through his specious deceptions, placed his unbelief in your mind, and you have been working it out. All who receive your presentations will enter upon strange paths if they connect with you. You are bringing in strange, common fire, but not the fire of GOD’S own kindling; and now I must speak plainly to our people that the LORD has led us step by step and shown us clear light upon the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY in the MOST HOLY OF HOLIES where GOD revealed Himself to His appointed ones. {Lt300-1903}

Merely being members of the church will avail nothing in the controversy before us. GOD is weighing men and their doings in the golden scales of the SANCTUARY. The TIME OF TROUBLE will surely search out and try every pretender. Those who claim to be Christians and yet act as sinners will be punished as sinners. Proportionate to the degree to which they have used their opportunities and talents to hinder the cause of GOD will be the severity of their punishment. {Ms18-1903}

In the balances of the SANCTUARY the Seventh-day Adventist church must be weighed. She will be judged by the privileges and advantages that she has had. If her SPIRITUAL experience does not correspond to the advantages that CHRIST, at an infinite cost, has bestowed on her; if the blessings conferred have not qualified her to do the work entrusted to her, on her will be pronounced the sentence, “found wanting.” By the light bestowed, the opportunities given, will she be judged. {Ms32-1903}

GOD has prepared joy, peace, love, and glorious triumph for all who serve Him in spirit and in truth. His commandment-keeping people are called and chosen to be in readiness every moment, to receive increased grace and power and increased knowledge of the HOLY SPIRIT’S working. Many are not now able to receive the precious gifts of the SPIRIT, which GOD is waiting to communicate to them. They are not reaching higher and still higher for power from on high, that, through the gifts bestowed, they may be recognized as GOD’S peculiar people, zealous of good works. {Ms32-1903}

It is GOD’S design that His people shall be a sanctified, purified, holy people, communicating light to all around them. It is His design that by exemplifying the truth in their lives, they shall be a praise in the earth. The grace of CHRIST is sufficient to bring this about. But let GOD’S people remember that only as they believe and work out the grand principles of the gospel of CHRIST can He make them a praise in the earth. Only as they use their GOD-given capabilities in His service will they enjoy the fulness and power of the promise whereon the church has been called to stand. If those who claim to believe in CHRIST as their SAVIOUR reach only the low standard of worldly measurement, the church fails to bear the rich harvest that GOD expects. “Found wanting,” is written upon her record. {Ms32-1903}

Solemn admonitions of warning, manifest in the destruction of dearly cherished facilities for service, say to us, “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works”—be converted and reformed, even as new converts are. Why is there so dim a perception of the true SPIRITUAL condition of the church? Are there not standing on the walls of Zion blind watchmen who do not perceive? Are not many unconcerned and well satisfied, as if the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night rested upon the SANCTUARY? Are there not those in positions of leadership, claiming to know GOD, who in life and character deny Him? Are there not many who count themselves as His chosen, peculiar people, yet are satisfied to live without the evidence that of a truth GOD is among them, to save them from Satan’s snares and attacks? Would we not now have much greater light if in the past we had received His admonitions, walked in the light as CHRIST is in the light, acknowledged His presence, and turned away from all dishonest practices? Then the light of heaven would have shone into the soul-temple, enabling us to comprehend the truth and to love GOD supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. O how CHRIST is dishonored by those who, professing to be Christians, disgrace the name they bear by failing to make their lives correspond with their profession, by failing to treat one another with the love and respect that GOD expects them to reveal in kind words and courteous actions. {Ms32-1903}

Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many of them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.” {Ms45-1903}

In ancient times, the LORD instructed Moses to build Him a SANCTUARY. The people were to provide the material, and skilful men must be found to handle the precious material. Among the multitude were Egyptians who had acted as overseers for such work and thoroughly understood how it should be done. But the work was not dependent upon them. The LORD united with human agencies, giving them wisdom to work skilfully. {Ms52-1903}

But we have not been deceived. Notwithstanding the apparent triumph of Satan on the earth, CHRIST is carrying forward His MEDIATORIAL work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The WORD OF GOD portrays the wickedness and corruption that should exist in the world in the last days. As we see the fulfilment of prophecy, our faith in the final triumph of CHRIST’S kingdom should be increased. We should go forth with courage to do our appointed work. {Ms57-1903}

Every one is now on trial. Every one will be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. Those who are fully trained for heaven will be with the heavenly family in the courts above. There is a class whose training has been such that they will be fitted for receiving punishment with the disobedient and the transgressors. Let us take these matters into consideration, and seriously reflect upon the nature of the impressions that will be left upon the susceptible minds of the youth that are being brought into daily association with the hundreds of worldly men and women who come to the Battle Creek Sanitarium. {Ms155-1903}

Everything that could be done has been done to make our salvation possible. CHRIST has obtained an everlasting victory, in order that He might open to us the door of heaven. To obtain our salvation, He hung on Calvary’s cross. For our sake He was laid in the tomb. For us He was raised from the dead; and for us, too, He declared over the rent sepulcher of Joseph. “I am the resurrection and the life.” And when at the close of His earthly ministry He ascended to heaven, the portals of the city of GOD were opened wide, and He entered as a conqueror, there to take up, in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, His ministry in behalf of those for whom He had given His life. The divine human SON OF GOD is now standing in the presence of the FATHER, pleading our cases and presenting His sacrifice as the ATONEMENT for our transgressions. {ST, January 14, 1903 par. 5}

The home is a training-school, in which children are to learn from their parents the meaning of self-discipline and self-control. Let parents remember that in the authority of GOD they are to do the work that He has laid upon them. In the SANCTUARY of the home His work for their children is to begin. They are to co-operate with Him by doing all in their power to make themselves fit teachers for their children. They are to acquaint themselves with the duties devolving upon them, and by a faithful performance of these duties prove themselves true to GOD and to their children. {ST, September 16, 1903 par. 1}

There is need of close examination of the deed of trust wherewith we approach GOD. Many have no assurance of acceptance with him. They have forfeited, and are continuing to forfeit, the conditions upon which acceptance is based. When weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, they are found wanting; for they love self; Christian principle is away down in the scale, and their profession of knowing CHRIST is a deception. They approach GOD with his promises, and ask him to fulfil them, when by so doing he would dishonor his name. In his mercy and love the LORD has given this testimony for them, and the words here traced should be carefully studied. {SW, June 4, 1903 par. 4}

In character-building it is of the greatest importance that we dig deep, removing all the rubbish, and building on the immovable, solid ROCK, CHRIST JESUS. The foundation firmly laid, we need wisdom to know how to build. When Moses was about to erect the SANCTUARY in the wilderness, he was cautioned, “See . . . that thou make all things according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount.” In HIS LAW GOD has given us a pattern, and it is after this pattern that we are to build. The law is the great standard of righteousness. It represents the character of GOD, and is the test of our loyalty to his government. {YI, February 19, 1903 par. 3}

The prayer and praise and confession of GOD’S people ascend as sacrifices to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. But they ascend not in spotless purity. Passing through the corrupt channels of humanity, they are so defiled that unless purified by the righteousness of the great HIGH PRIEST, they are not acceptable by GOD. CHRIST gathers into the CENSER the prayers, the praise, and the sacrifices of his people, and with these he puts the merits of his spotless righteousness. Then, perfumed with the INCENSE of CHRIST’S propitiation, our prayers, wholly and entirely acceptable, rise before GOD, and gracious answers are returned. {YI, April 16, 1903 par. 12}

In the SANCTUARY and the temple, that were the earthly symbols of GOD’S dwelling place, one APARTMENT was sacred to His presence. The VEIL inwrought with CHERUBIM at its entrance was not to be lifted by any hand save one. To lift that VEIL and intrude unbidden into the sacred mystery of the MOST HOLY PLACE was death. For above the MERCY SEAT and the bowed, worshiping angels dwelt the glory of the HOLIEST, glory upon which no man might look and live. On the one day of the year appointed for ministry in the MOST HOLY PLACE, the high priest with trembling entered GOD’S PRESENCE, while clouds of INCENSE veiled the glory from his sight. Throughout the courts of the temple every sound was hushed. No priests ministered at the ALTARS. The hosts of worshipers, bowed in silent awe, sent up their petitions for GOD’S mercy. {8T 284.5 1904} {MH 437.1 1905}

I have had fears that there would be some misunderstandings as to how I regard the book Living Temple. This book contains misleading statements and never should have been published. There is in it the beginning of theories which, carried to their logical conclusion, would destroy faith in the SANCTUARY question and in the ATONEMENT. I do not think that Dr. Kellogg saw this clearly. I do not think that he realized that in laying his new foundation of faith, he was directing his steps toward infidelity. {Lt33-1904}

For forty days Moses was in the mount. While there he received directions for the building of a SANCTUARY in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. For the third time the observance of the SABBATH was enjoined. “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever,” GOD declared, “that ye may know that I am JEHOVAH that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the SABBATH therefore; for it is holy unto you…. Whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” {Lt69-1904}

We have no time to lose. Troublous times are before us. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will take place. The prophecy in the eleventh of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfilment. Much of the history that has taken place in fulfilment of this prophecy will be repeated. In the thirtieth verse a power is spoken of that “shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the HOLY COVENANT: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the HOLY COVENANT. And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the SANCTUARY of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate. And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their GOD shall be strong, and do exploits. {Lt103-1904}

Have our church members learned the science of this love? Do they love one another as CHRIST has loved them? I tell you that there are very many who would be found wanting on the point of Christian love, were they weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. We need now to guard the SPIRITUAL soundness of our faith in CHRIST and treat the soul most carefully, lest we catch the coldness of worldly influences. GOD bids His people watch and pray always, lest they enter into temptation, breaking away from the heavenly current of life. Those who live in accordance with the ways of the world, speaking the words and following the customs of the worldling, cannot possibly observe the laws of heavenly origin. {Lt123-1904}

Ever since going to the Berrien Springs meetings, my work has been continuous and taxing. While there I saw that which we shall have to meet in the future. The only way in which we can advance in our work is in the name of the FATHER, the SON, and the HOLY SPIRIT. The Book that contains the will of GOD concerning us is in our hands. A blessed unity will be enjoyed by those who are indeed children of GOD. They will not, by their words and acts, lead any one to doubt in regard to the distinct personality of GOD, or in regard to the SANCTUARY and its ministry. {Lt233-1904}

We all need to keep the subject of the SANCTUARY in mind. GOD forbid that the clatter of words coming from human lips should lessen the belief of our people in the truth that there is a SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN, and that a pattern of this SANCTUARY was once built on this earth. GOD desires His people to become familiar with this pattern, keeping ever before their minds the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where GOD is all and in all. We must keep our minds braced by prayer and a study of GOD’S WORD, that we may grasp these truths. {Lt233-1904}

Many of the medical missionary workers are confused, and they will not improve unless they are converted and the influences which have been imparted to them from the satanic deceiver, who has concluded that he will work every soul that will give himself to be worked, are removed. No such things can be given to the students to perfect them in that knowledge which is unto ETERNAL life. Dr. Kellogg is certainly confused and is an unsafe man. There are songs of degrees that may be sung, as when they ascended the steps of the Jewish temple. Yet there is a great want of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD. Unless these medical missionary workers find their lot and stand in their appointed place, and become rooted and grounded in the truth, they are not proper educators of young men and young women. Their great work is within, to CLEANSE the soul temple from all moral and SPIRITUAL defilement. When the SANCTUARY of the soul is purified, CLEANSED from all false theories and every oppressive practice, then CHRIST will take up His abode within. Unless Dr. Kellogg turns from Satan’s devisings, he will never become a free man, because he has leagued himself with the great deceiver. The work will never, never go in sacred, pure, beautiful lines unless Dr. Kellogg’s influence is either CLEANSED from his own human devising under satanic agencies, or he takes himself away, or GOD takes him away, that he will no longer spoil the people of GOD. When he breaks with Satan, we shall all know it. The work done will not be under a bushel or a bed. He had large influences to help him at the first General Conference in Battle Creek. Since that time, when the LORD JESUS has reached out His hand to help him, he has not grasped it, but has chosen his own course of action. He did not reform, and therefore he has not power to break with the enemy. Just as long as he keeps on in the same course of action, the LORD cannot work in the same partnership. {Ms45-1904}

In a representation which passed before me, I saw a certain work being done by medical missionary workers. Our ministering brethren were looking on, watching what was being done, but they did not seem to understand. The foundation of our faith which was established by so much prayer, such earnest searching of the SCRIPTURES, was being taken down pillar by pillar. Our faith was to have nothing to rest upon—the SANCTUARY was gone, the ATONEMENT was gone. I realized that something must be done. {Ms46-1904}

And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD’S offering to the work of the TABERNACLE of the congregation.” Exodus 35:21. The work went forward according to the word of the LORD. A SANCTUARY was built that could be taken from place to place, that in all the travels of the children of Israel the knowledge of GOD should be made known. {Ms144a-1904}

There will be no drunkards in that home. There is such a discipline that they will never want to carry it through, because they will take right hold of the LIVING GOD, and they will converse and pray and work with these children, and never rest. Why, I have told them that just as long as my children live, if they are as gray-headed as myself, I have a responsibility for that child that I have brought into the world. I have two sons living, two sons in the grave, and I have a husband in the grave, and my father and mother on both sides of the house that I have had the care of in their last hours, that died in the faith; and I want that our home should be a SANCTUARY where the SPIRIT of the LORD can dwell. {Ms151-1904}

The LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering. . . . And let them make me a SANCTUARY; that I may dwell among them.” {RH, September 22, 1904 par. 4}

Has not GOD spoken in His word concerning the solemn events which must shortly take place? As you read these things, do you believe what He says? Or have you, through listening to specious philosophy, given up your faith in GOD? Can any power avert the punishment that must come upon you unless you humble your hearts before GOD and confess your sins? How is it, my brethren in the medical missionary work? Does not the LIVING GOD speak to you from His word concerning the events that are taking place in fulfilment of that word? Soon the last great reckoning with man will take place. Have your lives been such that you can then be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, and not be found wanting? Or has your faith been molded and restricted until it has become unbelief? Has your obedience to men become rebellion against GOD? “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” {SpTB02 17.1 1904}

If there be first a willing mind, a way to the SANCTUARY will be found. But those whose hearts are humble and contrite would not engage in the work that for years has been done in Battle Creek, a work of accusing and condemning the brethren, and especially the ministers. It is the influence of the great deceiver that has led to this work. When men and women realize their own weakness and their entire dependence upon GOD, a standard of Christianity very different from that which now appears will be seen. {SpTB02 21.2 1904}

This manner of working is making my burden heavier than GOD ever designed it to be. This painful experience makes my heart ache. I am instructed to say [to] those who endeavor to tear down the foundation that has made us Seventh-day Adventists: We are GOD’S commandment- keeping people. For the past fifty years every phase of heresy has been brought to bear upon us, to becloud our minds regarding the teaching of the WORD—especially concerning the ministration of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the message of heaven for these last days, as given by the angels of the fourteenth chapter of Revelation. Messages of every order and kind have been urged upon Seventh-day Adventists to take the place of the truth which, point by point, has been sought out by prayerful study and testified to by the miracle-working power of the LORD. But the waymarks which have made us what we are are to be preserved, and they will be preserved, as GOD has signified through His WORD and the testimonies of HIS SPIRIT. He calls upon us to hold firmly, with the grip of faith, to the fundamental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority. {Lt95-1905} {SpTB02 59.1 1904} {Ms44-1905}

Sanctify the LORD of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. And He shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” {Lt277-1905}

How much precious light is contained in the WORD for our admonition and instruction! The LORD JESUS must in no case be dishonored by our course of action. Individually we are to be weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY. To every soul I would say, What if you are found wanting? Too, the motives of men and women are measured by the LORD. Said Hannah, “The LORD is a GOD of judgment, and by Him actions are weighed.” Said Isaiah, “Thou most upright dost weigh the path of the just.” Solomon traces the words, “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the LORD weigheth the spirit.” {Lt320-1905}

This man has leaflets and discourses printed and has the most striking representations and the figures of the twenty-three hundred days, the SANCTUARY, and every point of present truth standing out in vivid representations. He is, we believe, GOD’S messenger to wake up the churches. All these leaflets, all illustrations are paid for—every penny—by those who come to listen. Contributions are raised to more than cover every expense. This is not an expensive outlay of means, yet it costs considerable money, and the citizens pledge themselves to sustain the work. We advised him to do just as he had been doing, because the LORD had endorsed the work. I had no other advice to give. He is resting a short period while the tent is being pitched in another locality of the city. {Lt351-1905}

O how tremblingly we walked and worked and searched the SCRIPTURES. Chapter after chapter of experience was opened before us in remarkable transactions. There were meetings of a few, about one dozen, and the SCRIPTURES were searched point by point until every point was established in the faith. We pled the promise, “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear Him, and He will show us His covenant.” {Lt366-1905}

These men had critical minds and it was first one and then the other that was convinced on the SANCTUARY question. The representation was so clear and distinct from the pattern GOD gave them in the mount that the most convincing arguments were brought forward. As the love of CHRIST was progressing in our hearts the clear and distinct truth was substantiated. It was months of urgent searching. When once the truth was harmonious in the minds of the praying, searching ones, then all presented it before other minds, and as the numbers of SABBATH-keepers increased there was harmony in our ranks of understanding. {Lt366-1905}

There had been mourning and sighing over our understanding at first, but this did not make any perceptible gaining in knowledge of the BIBLE facts. We presented the truth as we now advocate it, and as some opposed we just patiently went over the subject again and again and again of the SANCTUARY question until the GLORY OF GOD would come upon us. Again and again the room where we assembled was so full of the GLORY OF GOD. Our voices came up to GOD to prayer, singing, and praise. And it was oft substantiated by the GLORY OF GOD in vision. The matter was presented and confirmed. It cost us much labor to make every point clear to critical minds, but always such blessings came that the faces of all present expressed the GLORY OF GOD. So we became established upon the question of the SANCTUARY question. I cannot begin to present the powerful experience. This experience was carried from place to place, but I have not strength to go into all the experience. Suffice it to say, we were confirmed and established. {Lt366-1905}

Many times this experience has been repeated in the presentation of the truth in new places. Fresh perceptions were imparted, bringing into consciousness vigorous vibrations—cords of such striking importance as exist between CHRIST and our own hearts. The visions were given to confirm the message. There was not a depending upon the mere WORD, but the confirmation of that WORD in mighty power. The SPIRIT OF CHRIST and of the closest seeking of GOD were manifest. All who sought Him with all the heart found Him. The weak in faith in BIBLE evidence were confirmed, strengthened, and settled. All did [not] discern the SANCTUARY question in its important bearings until the representations came to them in the clear application of truth from the visions which GOD gave. The power and the glory and the honor flowed forth from human lips. When opposers came in to block the way by a specious reasoning, the LORD raised up many of the strong reasons through the SPIRIT OF GOD to confirm the WORD. {Lt366-1905}

The disciples who were associated with Him in His work, JESUS often released for a season, that they might visit their homes and rest; but in vain were their efforts to draw Him away from His labors. All day He ministered to the throngs that came to Him, and at eventide, or in the early morning, He went away to the SANCTUARY of the mountains for communion with His FATHER. {MH 55.1 1905}

At the settlement of Israel in Canaan, the land was divided among the whole people, the Levites only, as ministers of the SANCTUARY, being excepted from the equal distribution. The tribes were numbered by families, and to each family, according to its numbers, was apportioned an inheritance. {MH 184.1 1905}

There are many others to whom we might make our homes a blessing. Our social entertainments should not be governed by the dictates of worldly custom, but by the SPIRIT OF CHRIST and the teaching of His word. The Israelites, in all their festivities, included the poor, the stranger, and the Levite, who was both the assistant of the priest in the SANCTUARY, and a religious teacher and missionary. These were regarded as the guests of the people, to share their hospitality on all occasions of social and religious rejoicing, and to be tenderly cared for in sickness or in need. It is such as these whom we should make welcome to our homes. How much such a welcome might do to cheer and encourage the missionary nurse or the teacher, the care-burdened, hard-working mother, or the feeble and aged, so often without a home, and struggling with poverty and many discouragements. {MH 352.4 1905}

May GOD help you to take the candle out from under the bushel or the bed and place it where its bright rays will shine forth in pleasant looks and kind, loving words. Praise the children when they do well; for judicious commendation is as great a help to them as it is to those older in years and understanding. Never be cross-grained in the SANCTUARY of the home. Be kind and tenderhearted, showing Christian politeness, thanking and commending your children for the help they give you. {Ms14-1905}

In Judah is GOD known; His name is great in Israel. In Salem also is His TABERNACLE, and His dwelling place in Zion.” “Thy way, O GOD, is in the SANCTUARY; who is so great a GOD as our GOD. Thou art the GOD that doeth wonders; Thou hast declared Thy strength among the people.” {Ms18-1905}

Those who seek to remove the old landmarks are not holding fast; they are not remembering how they have received and heard. Those who try to bring in theories that would remove the pillars of our faith concerning the SANCTUARY, or concerning the personality of GOD or of CHRIST, are working as blind men. They are seeking to bring in uncertainties and to set the people of GOD adrift, without an anchor. {Ms62-1905}

Those who claim to be identified with the message that GOD has given us should have keen, clear SPIRITUAL perceptions, that they may distinguish truth from error. The word spoken by the messenger of GOD is “Wake up the watchmen.” If men will discern the spirit of the messages given, and strive to find out from what source they come, the LORD GOD of Israel will guard them from being led astray. But GOD is not to be trifled with. {Ms62-1905}

The messages that we have received from heaven are true and faithful. When one man strives to bring in new theories, which are not the truth, the ministers of GOD should bear clear warning against these theories, pointing out where, if received, they would lead the people of GOD. Those who have received the light of present truth should not be easily deceived and readily led from the true path into strange paths. The watchmen are to be wide-awake to discern the outcome of all specious reasoning; for serious errors will be brought in to lead the people of GOD astray. {Ms62-1905}

Walk in CHRIST’S footsteps, and hold fast that which you have received and heard, and put away any exposition of SCRIPTURE which means, ’My LORD delayeth His coming.’ In such a day as ye think not the SON OF MAN cometh, and then how will it be with you and those whose minds you have confused? Stop right where you are; for GOD has not given you this message to bear to the people. Those who receive your interpretation of SCRIPTURE regarding the SANCTUARY service are receiving error and following in false paths. The enemy will work the minds of those who are eager for something new, preparing them to receive false theories and false expositions of the SCRIPTURE.” {Ms62-1905}

The LORD would have us at this time bring in the testimony written by those who are now dead, to speak in behalf of heavenly things. The HOLY SPIRIT has given instruction for us in these last days. We are to repeat the testimonies that GOD has given His people, the testimonies that present clear conceptions of the truths of the SANCTUARY and that show the relation of CHRIST to the truths of the SANCTUARY so clearly brought to view. {Ms75-1905}

Satan is striving continually to bring in fanciful suppositions in regard to the SANCTUARY, degrading the wonderful representations of GOD and the ministry of CHRIST for our salvation into something that suits the carnal mind. He removes its presiding power from the hearts of believers and supplies its place with fantastic theories, invented to make void the truths of the ATONEMENT and destroy our confidence in the doctrines which we have held sacred since the third angel’s messages was first given. Thus he would rob us of our faith in the very message that has made us a separate people and has given character and power to our work. {Ms108-1905}

Ye shall keep my SABBATHS, and reverence MY SANCTUARY; I am the LORD…. Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man, and fear thy GOD; I am the LORD. And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thy self; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt; I am the LORD thy GOD. Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure. Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have; I am the LORD your GOD, which brought you out of the land of Egypt. Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them, I am the LORD.” {Ms115-1905}

When true conversion takes place, the soul is eagerly ready to have this work done. Self is no longer exalted. The judgment, sanctified, sees how impossible it would be for the spirit cherished in the past to be admitted into the inner court of the SANCTUARY of GOD. The soul is strongly drawn to choose what the judgment has been taught to approve. “I delight to do Thy will, O my GOD.” The psalmist speaks thus of the godly man: “The law of his GOD is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.” Is not this a great promise? Shall we not appreciate it? Who will now watch and pray three times a day as did Daniel; for the enemy is watching constantly to find us off guard. Will you now earnestly consider the call from CHRIST to return to your first love? Let every one remember that the first work to be done each day is to surrender the will and way to GOD. The LORD will surely arouse His people who are watching and waiting and praying. “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold; but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” {Ms122-1905}

Light came to me months ago that there was work that must be done. A company of us were praying and the power of GOD was in our midst. If any come up with modern thoughts of the HOLY SPIRIT which takes off from the SANCTUARY, we need to be on guard, for GOD wants us to stand in the right position. This truth has been given us point by point and if we take a piece out of our faith it will leave us, as CHRIST said, on the sand. If we stand on the WORD nothing can move us, for it is riveted to the rock. Ministers may present theories that GOD has never given. If you have GOD for the pillars of truth, you will not be turned away, for He is the foundation of gold, silver, and precious stones. {Ms186-1905}

1 John Ch 1 Verses 10, 11. Here were the churches. All these things in Revelation represent the churches in the land. We find through the list of the churches that there is a call made. I cannot begin to tell it all, but the latest is the third angel’s message. It is to be proclaimed, and we are to carry the banner with the inscription, “The COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and the FAITH OF JESUS.” That is what we are to bear. There is no such thing as these spiritualistic ideas that must come into our mind at all, that we have no personal CHRIST and we have no personal GOD. Brethren, hold fast to the SANCTUARY. Hold fast to CHRIST JESUS; hold fast to the FATHER. And every point of present truth that we have heard that we have experienced, we are to proclaim whenever we shall go. {Ms188-1905}

1 John Ch 2 Verses 10, 11. The devil is trying to get something else before us, that we shall lose that crown that is waiting for us in the heavenly courts. We have a personal SAVIOUR, one who is pleading for us in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, that we shall have the crown of life. It is not sophistry. It is not an idle tale. It is no story that Satan has connected that we shall give adherence to. It is the very light that GOD gave away back in 1842 and 1843 and 1844. {Ms188-1905}

In the future, deception of every kind is to arise, and we want solid ground for our feet. We want solid pillars for the building. Not one pin is to be removed from that which the LORD has established. The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no SANCTUARY. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith. Where shall we find safety unless it be in the truths that the LORD has been giving for the last fifty years? {RH, May 25, 1905 par. 28}

The last great work of David, in his official position, was to call the attention of the people once more to their solemn relation to GOD as subjects of his theocracy. Summoning the princes of Israel, with the representative men from all parts of the kingdom, he delivered, in their presence, an inspired charge to his SON, vesting him with kingly authority, and bidding him perform faithfully the duties devolving upon him. “Know thou the GOD of thy father,” the aged monarch pleaded, “and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off forever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the SANCTUARY: be strong, and do it.” {RH, August 17, 1905 par. 9}

Solomon was still young, and he shrank from the weighty responsibilities that would devolve upon him in the erection of the temple and in the government of GOD’S people. But David said to him, “Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed [by the greatness of the plans]: for the LORD GOD, even my GOD, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” “The LORD hath chosen thee to build a house for the SANCTUARY: be strong, and do it.” {RH, August 24, 1905 par. 5}

Later, when the TABERNACLE was to be built in the wilderness, chosen men were specially endowed by GOD with skill and wisdom for the construction of the sacred building. And when it was completed, certain men were appointed to perform certain parts of the HOLY service. Moses, and Aaron and his sons, were to minister before the TABERNACLE of witness. “The LORD said unto Aaron, Thou and thy sons and thy father’s house with thee shall bear the iniquity of the SANCTUARY: and thou and thy sons with thee shall bear the iniquity of your priesthood. . . . Ye shall keep the charge of the SANCTUARY, and the charge of the ALTAR: that there be no wrath any more upon the children of Israel. . . . Thou and thy sons with thee shall keep your priest’s office for everything of the ALTAR, and within the VEIL; and ye shall serve: I have given your priest’s office unto you as a service of gift.” {RH, October 5, 1905 par. 4}

The priests were divided into twenty-four courses, and a full and accurate record was made regarding this division. Each course was thoroughly organized under its chief, and each was to come to Jerusalem twice a year, to attend for one week to the ministry of the SANCTUARY. {RH, October 5, 1905 par. 10}

The Levites, whose duty it was to assist in the SANCTUARY service, were organized and allotted their part with similar precision. {RH, October 5, 1905 par. 11}

During the days of Moses, the government of Israel was characterized by the most thorough organization, wonderful alike for its completeness and its simplicity. The order so strikingly displayed in the perfection and arrangement of all GOD’S created works was manifest in the Hebrew economy. GOD was the center of authority and government, the sovereign of Israel. Moses stood as their visible leader, by GOD’S appointment, to administer the laws in his name. From the elders of the tribes a council of seventy was afterward chosen to assist Moses in the general affairs of the nation. Next came the priests, who consulted the LORD in the SANCTUARY. Chiefs, or princes, ruled over the tribes. Under these were “captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens;” and, lastly, officers who might be employed for special duties. {RH, October 12, 1905 par. 2}

Like the earthly SANCTUARY built by Moses according to the pattern shown him in the mount, Solomon’s temple, with all its services, was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” its TWO HOLY PLACES were “patterns of things in the heavens;” CHRIST, our great HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the true TABERNACLE, which the LORD pitched, and not man.” As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the TEMPLE OF GOD in heaven, he beheld there “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE burning before the THRONE.” He saw an angel “having a GOLDEN CENSER; and there was given unto him much INCENSE, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the GOLDEN ALTAR which was before the THRONE.” Here the prophet was permitted to behold the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY in heaven; and he saw there the “SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE” and the “GOLDEN ALTAR,” represented by the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR OF INCENSE in the SANCTUARY on earth. Again, “the TEMPLE OF GOD was opened,” and he looked within the INNER VEIL, upon the HOLY OF HOLIES. Here he beheld, “the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT,” represented by the SACRED CHEST constructed by Moses to contain the LAW OF GOD. {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 9}

In the ministration of the earthly TABERNACLE, which served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things,” the HOLY OF HOLIES was opened only upon the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT, the typical day of judgment, set apart for the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY. Therefore the announcement, “The TEMPLE OF GOD was opened in heaven, and there was seen in HIS TEMPLE the ARK OF HIS TESTAMENT,” points to the opening of the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, at the end of the twenty-three hundred days,–in 1844,–as CHRIST entered there to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT. Those who by faith followed their great HIGH PRIEST, as he entered upon his ministry in the MOST HOLY PLACE, beheld the ARK OF THE TESTAMENT. {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 10}

We are now living in the GREAT DAY OF ATONEMENT. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the ATONEMENT for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin, by humiliation before the LORD, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life, should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before GOD by sorrow for sin, and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. The light, frivolous spirit indulged in by so many professed Christians must be put away. There is earnest warfare before all who would subdue the evil tendencies that strive for the mastery. The work of preparation is an individual work. We are not saved in groups. The purity and devotion of one will not offset the want of these qualities in another. Though all nations are to pass in judgment before GOD, yet he will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth. Every one must be tested, and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 12}

And the psalmist declares:–
“Blessed is the nation whose GOD is the LORD; The people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. The LORD looketh from heaven; He beholdeth all the sons of men; From the place of his habitation he looketh forth Upon all the inhabitants of the earth.” “He hath looked down from the height of his SANCTUARY.” “The LORD hath prepared his THRONE in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all.” {RH, November 30, 1905 par. 4}

Thy way, O GOD, is in the SANCTUARY: who is so great a GOD as our GOD? Thou art the GOD that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.” {RH, November 30, 1905 par. 5}

In the days of ancient Israel, when at the foot of Sinai Moses told the people of the divine command, “Let them make me a SANCTUARY; that I may dwell among them,” the response of the Israelites was accompanied by appropriate gifts. “They came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing,” and brought offerings. For the building of the SANCTUARY, great and expensive preparations were necessary; a large amount of the most precious and costly material was required; yet the LORD accepted only freewill offerings. “Of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering,” was the divine command repeated by Moses to the congregation. Devotion to GOD and a spirit of sacrifice were the first requisites in preparing a dwelling-place for the MOST HIGH. {RH, January 4, 1906 par. 2}

Through disloyalty, GOD’S chosen people developed a character exactly the opposite of the character he desired them to develop. They placed their own mold and superscription upon the truth. They forgot GOD, and lost sight of their high privilege as his representatives. The blessings they had received brought no blessing to the world. All their advantages were appropriated for their own glorification. They robbed GOD of the service he required of them, and they robbed their fellow-men of religious guidance and a holy example. Like the inhabitants of the antediluvian world, they followed out every imagination of their evil hearts. Thus they made sacred things appear a farce, saying, “The temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, are these,” while at the same time they were misrepresenting GOD’S character, dishonoring his name, and polluting his SANCTUARY. {SW, January 10, 1905 par. 3}

January 24, 1905 CHRIST’S Closing Ministry in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY.

As foreshadowed in the type, and foretold in the SCRIPTURES, CHRIST, at the time appointed, entered the MOST HOLY PLACE of the TEMPLE OF GOD in heaven. He is represented by the prophet Daniel as coming at this time to the ANCIENT OF DAYS: “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the SON OF MAN came with the clouds of heaven, and came” — not to the earth, but — “to the ANCIENT OF DAYS, and they brought him near before him.” {SW, January 24, 1905 par. 1}

Shortly after the fulfilment of some of the signs that the SAVIOUR foretold would be seen before his SECOND COMING, there took place throughout the Christian world a great religious awakening. Students of prophecy came to the conclusion that the time of the end was at hand. In the book of Daniel they read: “Unto two thousand and three hundred days, then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” Thinking that the earth was the SANCTUARY, they understood that the CLEANSING foretold in Daniel 8:14 represented the purification of the earth by fire at the SECOND COMING of CHRIST. Searching the SCRIPTURES for further light, and comparing this prophetic period with the records of historians, they learned that the twenty-three hundred days extended to the year 1844. {SW, January 24, 1905 par. 3}

This was the foundation of the great advent movement of 1844. The falling of the stars in 1833 gave added force to the proclamation of the message of a soon-coming SAVIOUR. Through the labors of William Miller and many others in America, of seven hundred ministers in England, of Bengel and others in Germany, of Gaussen and his followers in France and Switzerland, of many ministers in Scandinavia, of a converted Jesuit in South America, and of Dr. Joseph Wolff in many Oriental and African countries, the advent message was carried to a large part of the habitable globe. {SW, January 24, 1905 par. 4}

Another class firmly held that the LORD had led them into their past experience; and as they waited and watched and prayed to know the will of GOD, they saw that their great HIGH PRIEST had entered upon another work of ministration, and, following him by faith, they were led to see also the closing work of the church. They had a clearer understanding of the first and second angels’ messages, and were prepared to receive and give to the world the solemn warning of the third angel of Revelation 14. {SW, January 24, 1905 par. 10}

Religion in the heart, planted there by the SPIRIT OF GOD produces beauty in the character. It is not as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. The SPIRIT OF TRUTH, the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST, produces beauty in the soul. It is that inward adorning of great price. The SPIRIT of holiness if received from GOD into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, will, if it pervades the soul-temple, work outward, moulding and fashioning the character after the divine similitude. The SPIRIT, the life from JESUS CHRIST, flows from the soul. It is represented as a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life. {GH, August 1, 1906 par. 1}

As the points of our faith were thus established, our feet were placed upon a solid foundation. We accepted the truth point by point, under the demonstration of the HOLY SPIRIT. I would be taken off in vision, and explanations would be given me. I was given illustrations of heavenly things and of the SANCTUARY, so that we were placed where light was shining on us in clear, distinct rays. {Lt50-1906}

All these truths are immortalized in my writings. The LORD never denies His WORD. Men may get up scheme after scheme, and the enemy will seek to seduce souls from the truth, but all who believe that the LORD has spoken through Sister White, and has given her a message, will be safe from the many delusions that will come in in these last days. {Lt50-1906}

I know that the SANCTUARY question stands in righteousness and truth just as we have held it for so many years. It is the enemy that leads minds off on sidetracks. He is pleased when those who know the truth become engrossed in collecting SCRIPTURES to pile up around erroneous theories, which have no foundation in truth. The SCRIPTURES thus used are misapplied; they were not given to substantiate error, but to strengthen truth. {Lt50-1906}

But it has been a most trying thing to see made of no effect the WORD of the LORD in cautions and warnings regarding students not going to Battle Creek to obtain their education. The college was taken out of Battle Creek; yet students are still called there, and there they become indoctrinated with the very sentiments regarding the personality of GOD and CHRIST that would undermine the foundation of our faith. The SANCTUARY question, which means so much to the heavenly family and to the believers on earth, has been made as nothingness. This has been presented to me as that which would be done. We must vindicate the truth. {Lt72-1906}

I have been surprised and made sad to read some of your articles in the Medical Missionary, and especially those on the SANCTUARY question. These articles show that you have been departing from the faith. You have helped in confusing the understanding of our people. The correct understanding of the ministration in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY is the foundation of our faith. {Lt208-1906}

Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set MY SANCTUARY in the midst of them forevermore. My TABERNACLE also shall be with them: yea, I will be their GOD, and they shall be My people. {Lt230-1906}

With some it has seemed to be regarded as a virtue to outwit their fellow men, even though they be their co-laborers in the LORD’S work. GOD is displeased with those who, by underhand methods, have taken means that should have been used to open up His work in new fields and have used them to carry out their own ambitious schemes. They must partake of the consequences of their action. All who deliberately harbor pride, vainglory, avarice, ambition, murmuring, bitterness, evil speaking, lying, or slandering, will, when weighed in the balances of the SANCTUARY, be found wanting. {Lt256-1906}

My brother, link up with Elder Olsen. Give him your confidence. Love as brethren, and be laborers together with GOD. Be not of that number who are ever learning, but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. It is your privilege to know what is truth, because for more than half a century, we have been guided step by step by the counsels of the SPIRIT OF GOD. At this time many efforts will be made to unsettle our faith in the SANCTUARY question; but we must not waver. Not a pin is to be moved from the foundations of our faith. Truth is still truth. Those who become uncertain will drift into erroneous theories and will finally find themselves infidel in regard to the past evidence we have had of what is truth. The old waymarks must be preserved, that we lose not our bearings. {Lt395-1906}

These false prophets will have to be met. They will make an effort to deceive many, by leading them to accept false theories. Many SCRIPTURES will be misapplied in such a way that deceptive theories will apparently be based upon the words that GOD has spoken. Precious truth will be appropriated to substantiate and establish error. These false prophets, who claim to be taught of GOD, will take beautiful SCRIPTURES that have been given to adorn the truth and will use them as a robe of righteousness to cover false and dangerous theories. And even some of those, who in times past the LORD has honored, will depart so far from the truth as to advocate misleading theories regarding many phases of truth, including the SANCTUARY question. {Ms11-1906}

We are very sorry to see the result of gathering a large number to Battle Creek. Ministers who have been believers in the foundation truths that have made us what we are—Seventh-day Adventists; ministers who went to Battle Creek to teach and strengthen the truths of the BIBLE are now, when old and grey-headed, turning from the grand truths of the BIBLE and accepting infidel sentiments. This means that the next step will be a denial of a personal GOD, pulling down the bulwARKs of the faith that is plainly revealed in the SCRIPTURES. The SANCTUARY question is the foundation of our faith. {Ms20-1906}

What is the test of true religion? Knowing and doing the will of GOD, in accordance with every word that proceedeth out of the MOUTH OF GOD. There is a SANCTUARY, and in that SANCTUARY is the ARK: and in the ARK are the TABLES OF STONE, [on] which are written the law spoken from Sinai amidst scenes of awful grandeur. These TABLES OF STONE are in the heavens, and they will be brought forth in that day when the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, and men shall be judged according to the things written in the books. They will be judged by the law written by the FINGER OF GOD and given to Moses to be deposited in the ARK. A record is kept of the deeds of all men, and according to his works will every man receive sentence, whether they be good or whether they be evil. {Ms20-1906}

Last night I was standing before a company assembled in Nashville. I was reading the seventeenth chapter of John. This chapter contains the intercessory prayer offered by CHRIST to His FATHER just before His trial and crucifixion. This prayer is a lesson regarding the intercession that the SAVIOUR would carry on within the VEIL, when His great sacrifice in behalf of man, the offering of Himself, should have been completed. Our MEDIATOR gave His disciples this illustration of His ministration in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY in behalf of all who will come to Him in meekness and humility, emptied of all selfishness, and believing in His power to save. {Ms29-1906}

Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.” “Moreover I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; and I will place them, and multiply them, and will set up MY SANCTUARY in the midst of them forevermore. My TABERNACLE also shall be with them: yea, I will be their GOD, and they shall be My people.” {Ms41-1906}

I present these matters before you. I am directed to say that the LORD has a great controversy with the men who have exalted themselves. Some have made nothingness of GOD. “Then brought He me the way of the north gate before the house, and I looked, and, behold, the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD; and I fell upon my face. And the LORD said unto me, SON OF MAN, mark well, and behold with thine eyes and hear with thine ears, all that I say unto thee concerning all the ordinances of the house of the LORD, and all the laws thereof; and mark well the entering in of the house, with every going forth of the SANCTUARY. And thou shalt say to the rebellious, even to the house of Israel, Thus saith the LORD GOD; O ye house of Israel, let it suffice you of all your abominations in that ye have brought into MY SANCTUARY strangers, uncircumcised in heart, and uncircumcised in flesh, to be in MY SANCTUARY, to pollute it, even My house, when ye offer My bread, the fat and the blood, and they have broken My covenant because of all your abominations. And ye have not kept the charge, but ye have set keepers of my charge in MY SANCTUARY for yourselves. {Ms81-1906}

Thus saith the LORD GOD: No stranger, uncircumcised in heart, nor uncircumcised in flesh, shall enter into MY SANCTUARY, of any stranger that is among the children of Israel. And the Levites that are gone away far from Me, when Israel went astray, which went astray from Me after their idols, they shall bear their iniquity; yet they shall be ministers in MY SANCTUARY; having charge at the gates of the house, and ministering to the house: they shall slay the burnt offering and the sacrifice for the people, and they shall stand before them to minister unto them. Because they minister unto them before their idols, and cause the house of Israel to fall into iniquity, therefore have I lifted up Mine hand against them, saith the LORD GOD, and they shall bear their iniquity. And they shall not come near unto Me, to do the office of a priest unto Me, nor to come near to any of My holy things in the MOST HOLY PLACE; but they shall bear their shame, and their abominations which they have committed. I will make them keepers of the charge of the house; for all the service thereof, and for all that shall be done therein. {Ms81-1906}

But the priests the Levites, the sons of Zadok, that kept the charge of MY SANCTUARY, when the children of Israel went astray from Me, they shall come near to Me to minister unto Me, and they shall stand before Me, to offer unto Me the fat and the blood, saith the LORD GOD. They shall enter into MY SANCTUARY, and they shall come near to My table, to minister unto Me, and they shall keep My charge.” {Ms81-1906}

O sing unto the LORD a new song; sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless His name; show forth His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His SANCTUARY. Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto His name: bring an offering and come into His courts.” {Ms91-1906}

Those who are living upon the earth, when the intercession of CHRIST shall cease in the SANCTUARY above, are to stand in the sight of a HOLY GOD with a MEDIATOR. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the GRACE OF GOD and their own diligent efforts, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the SANCTUARY, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among GOD’S people upon earth.” {Ms103-1906}

Here is the very work that is resting upon us to perform. Do not, I beg of you, listen to the unbelief that will be crowded into your mind, and sophistries. Some are to depart from the faith. Where are they? Who are they? Who is departing from the faith laid down, the very foundation that we were on a whole century ago? We are on the very same foundation; we have the same evidence, and we worked on it day and night, to know in regard to the SANCTUARY question, and in regard to the personality of GOD, and of CHRIST, and of all these subjects. {Ms138-1906}

When ministers adorn the doctrine of CHRIST our SAVIOUR, and when physicians reveal in words and works, and in their influence the healing grace of CHRIST, when the SAVIOUR is revealed as the One altogether lovely, a great work will be done in behalf of other souls. GOD calls for truth in the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, that the whole being may be a representation of the life of CHRIST. {RH, May 31, 1906 par. 11}

As the church-members do their part faithfully, the LORD will lead and guide his chosen ministers, and strengthen them for their important work. In much prayer let us all unite in holding up their hands, and in drawing bright beams from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. We are soul-hungry to see the work advancing as it should. CHRIST is our alpha and our omega. Only in his strength can we gain success. {RH, December 20, 1906 par. 15}

Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea, which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live; and there shall be a great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither; for they shall be healed; and everything shall live whither the river cometh…. And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed; it shall bring forth new fruit according to its months, because their waters they issue out of the SANCTUARY, and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” {Lt112-1907}

And the people said unto me, Wilt thou not tell us what these things are to us, that thou doest so? Then I answered them, The word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Speak unto the house of Israel, Thus said the LORD GOD; Behold, I will profane MY SANCTUARY, the excellency of your strength, the desire of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your sons and your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the sword. And ye shall do as I have done; ye shall not cover your lips, nor eat the bread of men. And your tires shall be upon your heads, and your shoes upon your feet; ye shall not mourn nor weep; but ye shall pine away for your iniquities, and mourn one toward another. Thus Ezekiel is unto you a sign: according to all that he hath done shall ye do; and when this cometh, ye shall know that I am the LORD GOD.” {Ms125-1907}

For more than half a century the different points of present truth have been questioned and opposed. New theories have been advanced as truth, which were not truth, and the SPIRIT OF GOD revealed their error. As the great pillars of our faith have been presented, the HOLY SPIRIT has borne witness to them, and especially is this so regarding the truths of the SANCTUARY question. Over and over again the HOLY SPIRIT has in a marked manner endorsed the preaching of this doctrine. But today, as in the past, some will be led to form new theories and to deny the truths upon which the SPIRIT OF GOD has placed His approval. {Ms125-1907}

Any man who seeks to present theories which would lead us from the light that has come to us on the ministration in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY should not be accepted as a teacher. A true understanding of the SANCTUARY question means much to us as a people. When we were earnestly seeking the LORD for light on that question, light came. In vision I was given such a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and the ministration connected with the HOLY PLACE, that for many days I could not speak of it. {Ms125-1907}

On the Isle of Patmos, CHRIST revealed Himself to John, enabling His servant to endure the seeing of things of ETERNAL interest. No mortal being can endure the revelation of GOD. His presence has always been shrouded by a guard of angels. But to John was given the privilege of seeing CHRIST, not in the burning bush, but amidst the indescribable glory of the HOLY SANCTUARY. Never was there a grander meeting than the meeting between John and CHRIST on the Isle of Patmos. The wonderful vision was accompanied by the words, “Prepare to meet thy GOD, O Israel.” It was no sophistry, but the presence of the divine Being who at the time of His ascension has taken into the heavenly courts a glorified humanity. He announced Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, and He came to give John a message for the churches. {Ms168-1907}

He requires that we are softened and subdued and sanctified by HIS HOLY SPIRIT, and that we study how we may work the very works that CHRIST has worked. He went with His disciples from place to place. Wherever He went He was attentive to those that came, that needed attention. They had not any sanitariums as we have here, but they needed the sanitarium that it shall grant them what they need in JESUS CHRIST. He was their SANCTUARY, He was their helper, He was the great leading Physician in our world. Wherever He went the followed Him. {Ms186-1907}

Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, SON OF MAN, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden, the garden of GOD; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardium, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold; the workmanship of thy tabrets and thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created. Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so; thou wast upon the HOLY mountain of GOD; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire; thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created till iniquity was found in thee. By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of GOD, and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire. Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy way by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee. Thou hast defiled thy SANCTUARIES by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffic; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. All they that know thee from among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more. {Ms125-1907}

These, with the prophecies of the twenty-fifth chapter, are the letters and the records that Daniel the prophet, during “the first year of the reign of Darius the Mede,” prayerfully studied, three-score years and more after they were written. Daniel was familiar with the circumstances connected with Jeremiah’s testimonies given very soon after the beginning of the Babylonian captivity. He well knew that the promise of the return was sure; and yet, a short time before, “in the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar,” the angel of the LORD had instructed him in vision, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” {RH, March 21, 1907 par. 3}

Daniel “sought for the meaning” of the vision. He could not understand the relation sustained by the seventy years’ captivity to the twenty-three hundred years that were to elapse before the CLEANSING of GOD’S SANCTUARY. Gabriel gave a partial interpretation; and when he declared that the vision “shall be for many days,” Daniel fainted. “I Daniel fainted,” the prophet writes, “and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision; but none understood it.” {RH, March 21, 1907 par. 4}

In his perplexity, Daniel studied anew the prophecies of Jeremiah. They were very plain,–so plain that he “understood” by these testimonies recorded in books “the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.” {RH, March 21, 1907 par. 5}

With faith founded on the sure word of prophecy, Daniel pleaded with the LORD for the speedy restoration of the captive exiles to the land of their fathers. “I set my face unto the LORD GOD,” he declares, “to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: and I prayed unto the LORD my GOD, and made my confession.” “We have sinned,” he acknowledged; “neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our GOD, to walk in HIS LAWS, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.” {RH, March 21, 1907 par. 6}

O LORD, according to all thy righteousness,” the prophet pleaded, “let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us. Now therefore, O our GOD, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy SANCTUARY that is desolate, for the LORD’S sake. O my GOD, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousness, but for thy great mercies. O LORD, hear; O LORD, forgive; O LORD, hARKen and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my GOD: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name.” {RH, March 21, 1907 par. 7}

As preparations for building the temple advanced from month to month, the faithful remnant of Israel began to gather courage. Long had they been deprived of every visible token of GOD’S PRESENCE with them. And now, surrounded as they were by many sad reminders of the terrible apostasy of their fathers, which had finally resulted in lifelong captivity, they longed for some abiding token of divine forgiveness and favor. Above the restoration of personal property and many ancient privileges, they valued the approval of GOD. Wonderfully had he wrought in their behalf; and now they longed for an assurance of his pardoning love and protecting care. By working diligently to rebuild the temple, they hoped to hasten the restoration of special blessings connected with the SANCTUARY service. Within the walls of this second temple they expected to see revealed the glory of the LORD. {RH, April 11, 1907 par. 1}

The LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying, Say ye not. A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken. Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” {RH, July 18, 1907 par. 6}

In this representation of the prophet, we see that Satan is at work not only with worldlings, who have not the fear and LOVE OF GOD before them, but also with those who profess faith in CHRIST. Here are plainly represented two distinct parties, formed from a company that was once united. The members of one of these parties are in resistance to the will of GOD. They have taken themselves from the side of the loyal and true, and are now resisting the warnings of the SPIRIT OF GOD. To the obedient the LORD will be “for a SANCTUARY; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” {RH, July 18, 1907 par. 7}

The poor are not excluded from the privilege of giving. They, as well as the wealthy, may act a part in this work. The lesson that CHRIST gave in regard to the widow’s two mites, shows us that the smallest willing offerings of the poor, if given from a heart of love, are as acceptable as the largest donations of the rich. In the balances of the SANCTUARY, the gifts of the poor, made from love to CHRIST, are not estimated according to the amount given, but according to the love which prompts the sacrifice. {RH, October 10, 1907 par. 4}

And it shall come to pass that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto En-eglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many. But the miry places thereof and the marshes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt. And by the river upon the back thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed; it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issue out of the SANCTUARY: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” {Lt32-1908}

You suppose that a mistake has been made in the view that has been held by some of our brethren in regard to the SANCTUARY question. There have been different opinions regarding the daily, and there will continue to be. If the LORD has seen fit to let this matter rest for so many years without correcting the same, would it not be wisdom on your part to refrain from presenting your views concerning it? I advise you not to present your ideas before our churches, but to let this matter alone; because at this period of our history, the enemy will be served by an attack made on us regarding our disagreement on this point, if it is made prominent; and this will lead to a worse issue. {Lt226-1908}

I have much on my mind, but I am not able to present it. That which I have spoken and written to them has been treated by them as idle tales. The LORD weighs the men in the balances of His SANCTUARY. You have both given your example to others, and you have leavened the flock of GOD. Now my work is largely increased to counterwork your work because of your influence on the flock of GOD in works and words given in your three years’ service. {Ms16-1908}

For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted. The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together (these represent persons), to beautify the place of MY SANCTUARY; and I will make the place of My feet glorious.” {Ms113-1908}

This second temple did not equal the first in magnificence, nor was it hallowed by those visible tokens of the divine presence which pertained to the first temple. There was no manifestation of supernatural power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen to fill the newly erected SANCTUARY. No fire from heaven descended to consume the sacrifice upon its ALTAR. The SHEKINAH no longer abode between the CHERUBIM in the MOST HOLY PLACE; the ARK, the MERCY SEAT, and the tables of the testimony were not to be found therein. No voice sounded from heaven to make known to the inquiring priest the will of JEHOVAH. {RH, January 16, 1908 par. 13}

On the fourth day after the arrival at Jerusalem, the treasures of silver and gold, with the vessels for the service of the SANCTUARY, were delivered by the treasurers in the hands of the temple officers. Every article was examined “by number and by weight.” The delivery of the treasures was made in the presence of witnesses, with the utmost exactitude. Nothing had been lost. The care exercised in this transaction is an object-lesson of the care with which the LORD would be pleased to have the affairs of his cause conducted at all times and in every place. {RH, February 20, 1908 par. 4}

If in this opportune time the members of the churches will come humbly before GOD, putting out of their hearts all that is wrong and consulting Him at every step, He will manifest Himself to them and will give them courage in Him. And as the church members do their part faithfully, the LORD will lead and guide His chosen ministers, and strengthen them for their important work. In much prayer let us all unite in holding up their hands and in drawing bright beams from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {9T 134.3 1909}

Now is our time to make decided efforts to awaken the people who have never yet been warned. Much thought and labor is given to the printed page. This is well; but if more effort were given to sending forth the living missionary to preach the truth, many more souls would be aroused and won to the truth. While JESUS ministers in the true SANCTUARY above, He is through HIS HOLY SPIRIT working through His earthly messengers. These agencies will accomplish more than the printed page, if they will go forth in the SPIRIT and power of CHRIST. CHRIST will work through His chosen ministers, filling them with HIS SPIRIT, and thus fulfilling to them the assurance, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” {Lt128-1909} {RH, April 7, 1910 par. 13}

I saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the LORD without a HIGH PRIEST in the SANCTUARY, through the TIME OF TROUBLE. Those who receive the SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD, and are protected in the TIME OF TROUBLE, must reflect the image of JESUS fully.” {Lt164-1909}

Let the perception be keen to see the working of the SPIRIT OF GOD upon the human heart. When weighed in the balances of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, ambition and the desire to supersede will not weigh as divine acquirements. {Lt164-1909}

The LORD could create an abundance of means for the carrying forward of His work. He could furnish the means without asking His people to make any sacrifice. The gold and the silver is His. All that we possess, even our own souls and bodies, are His. But the LORD has never worked this way. You remember how, when the SANCTUARY was to be built in the wilderness, He called on all the people to make their freewill offerings. And they all wanted a part in the blessing. They gave until the leaders could say, It is enough. Bring no more offerings. {Ms9-1909}

Now I am weak, to what I have been sometimes, but I thank GOD I can speak to you. And I want every one of you to just read your BIBLES. Here is the educational book. You read very much of it, and you will see how GOD regards the higher education. It is in the Book. GOD help us that we may take hold of the educational interest in an altogether different bearing. We want our children associated with the heavenly interests in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and angels of GOD round about them. Angels of GOD are here today. Angels of GOD were here yesterday, moving upon the hearts. We know that. Now we want you to act just like living men and living women that have an interest in JESUS CHRIST, that you want to draw with all the power of your influence souls away from Satan’s ranks and place them where the heavenly angels will be their guardians, and will charge of them. We want every one of you to be Christians. We want to the King in His beauty. {Ms118-1909}

O GOD, Thou art my GOD; early will I seek Thee: my soul thirsteth for Thee, my flesh longeth for Thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; to see Thy power and Thy glory, so as I have seen Thee in the SANCTUARY. Because Thy loving-kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise Thee. Thus will I bless Thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in Thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise Thee with joyful lips: when I remember Thee upon my bed, and meditate on Thee in the night watches. Because Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice.” {ST, August 11, 1909 par. 12}

During the days of the Advent Movement, the first and the second angels’ messages were proclaimed with power in Portland, Maine. And after the disappointment, when light shone upon the SANCTUARY question and the three messages of Revelation fourteen, the third angel’s message was preached faithfully in that place and throughout the East. In times past, we have attended camp-meetings in that city that have been well attended. The power of GOD has been manifested. Those connected with the courts, and others high in office, have come out to hear. {Ms25-1910}

After the disappointment, when light was given on the SANCTUARY question, the SABBATH truth, and the three angels’ messages of (Revelation 14), the cities of the East were given the light of present truth. The third angel’s message was carried from city to city and from town to town. Light shone on the pathway of the scattered believers, concerning the near advent of their LORD, and some received the message gladly. Others turned from the light and lost their hold on GOD and on His truth. {Ms51-1910}

Satan has the advantage in many things. He can quote all those glories that he had in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY just as though they belong to him, and he will quote these things. He is working upon human minds, and he will bring in all the sophistries that he can bring before them, and he will mix in with some of his wonderful, wonderful learning and agency that he had in the heavenly courts. And they think he is certainly excellent. You want all these excellencies, with yourself undefiled, and you can have them. {Ms79-1910}

Our dear SAVIOUR says again, “I am the true vine and ye are the branches and my FATHER is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth not fruit he taketh it away.” Now we want to know what fruit we are bearing. We want our fruits shall be right before the world in the ministry of CHRIST on the earth, and they can be if we will. We have all these advantages and how thankful we should be. The LORD brought this place right into our hands. What advantages we have in this very place! But there are other places where they need help, and let everyone who can, take his BIBLE in his hand and see what missionary work he can do; carry with him some of the little books that we have published, and if the people do not want to buy, leave the books with them, and tell them to read them whether they want to buy or not; and if any of you want to give some away, just do that. There is a chance to let our light shine and we want to do so. Now Satan has the advantage in many things. He can quote those glories that he had in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY just as though they belonged to him, and he will quote these things. He is working upon human minds and he will bring in all the sophistries that he can bring in, and mix it in with some of his wonderful learning and agency that he had in the heavenly courts. The world will certainly think that he is excellent. We want all that excellency and power, but we shall have the light of truth which is to shine. But Satan will present that light that he had in the heavenly courts, and many will think that it must be the truth, and they are intelligent men and good women, and he leads them right along to perdition. {Ms79a-1910}

We must be decided upon this subject; for the points he is trying to prove by SCRIPTURE, are not sound. They do not prove that the past experience of GOD’S people was a fallacy. We had the truth; we were directed by the angels of GOD. It was under the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT that the presentation of the SANCTUARY question was given. It is eloquent for everyone to keep silence in regard to the features of our faith, in which they acted no part. GOD never contradicts Himself. SCRIPTURE proofs are misapplied if forced to testify to that which is not true. Another and still another will arise and bring in supposedly great light, and make their assertions. But we stand by the old land-marks. We are hindered in our work by men who are not converted who seek their own glory. They wish to be thought originators of new theories, which they present claiming that they are truth. But if these theories are received they will lead to a denial of the truth that for the past fifty years GOD has been giving to this people, substantiating it by the demonstration of the HOLY SPIRIT. {PH020 15.2 1910}

The disciples were unacquainted with the SAVIOUR’S unlimited resources and power. He said to them, “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name.” John 16:24. He explained that the secret of their success would be in asking for strength and grace in his name. He would be present before the FATHER to make requests for them. The prayer of the humble suppliant he presents as his own desire in that soul’s behalf. Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the SANCTUARY where JESUS ministers, and he will present it to the FATHER without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the INCENSE of his own perfection. {RH, July 14, 1910 par. 1}

Wonderful is the work which the LORD designs to accomplish through His church, that His name may be glorified. A picture of this work is given in Ezekiel’s vision of the river of healing: “These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live: . . . and by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the SANCTUARY: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” Ezekiel 47:8-12. {AA 13.1 1911}

As with holy boldness Paul proclaimed the gospel in the synagogue at Thessalonica, a flood of light was thrown upon the true meaning of the rites and ceremonies connected with the TABERNACLE service. He carried the minds of his hearers beyond the earthly service and the ministry of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, to the time when, having completed His MEDIATORIAL work, CHRIST would come again in power and great glory, and establish His kingdom on the earth. Paul was a believer in the SECOND COMING of CHRIST; so clearly and forcibly did he present the truths concerning this event, that upon the minds of many who heard there was made an impression which never wore away. {AA 228.3 1911}

Those who today teach unpopular truths need not be discouraged if at times they meet with no more favorable reception, even from those who claim to be Christians, than did Paul and his fellow workers from the people among whom they labored. The messengers of the cross must arm themselves with watchfulness and prayer, and move forward with faith and courage, working always in the name of JESUS. They must exalt CHRIST as man’s MEDIATOR in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, the One in whom all the sacrifices of the OLD TESTAMENT dispensation centered, and through whose atoning sacrifice the transgressors of GOD’S LAW may find peace and pardon. {AA 230.2 1911}

Behold the apostle preaching in the synagogue at Corinth, reasoning from the writings of Moses and the prophets, and bringing his hearers down to the advent of the promised MESSIAH. Listen as he makes plain the work of the REDEEMER as the great high priest of mankind–the One who through the sacrifice of His own life was to make ATONEMENT FOR SIN once for all, and was then to take up His ministry in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Paul’s hearers were made to understand that the MESSIAH for whose advent they had been longing, had already come; that His death was the antitype of all the sacrificial offerings, and that His ministry in the SANCTUARY in heaven was the great object that cast its shadow backward and made clear the ministry of the Jewish priesthood. {AA 246.2 1911}

The payment of the tithe was but a part of GOD’S plan for the support of His service. Numerous gifts and offerings were divinely specified. Under the Jewish system the people were taught to cherish a spirit of liberality both in sustaining the cause of GOD and in supplying the wants of the needy. For special occasions there were freewill offerings. At the harvest and the vintage, the first fruits of the field–corn, wine, and oil–were consecrated as an offering to the LORD. The gleanings and the corners of the field were reserved for the poor. The first fruits of the wool when the sheep were shorn, of the grain when the wheat was threshed, were set apart for GOD. So also were the first-born of all animals, and a redemption price was paid for the first-born SON. The first fruits were to be presented before the LORD at the SANCTUARY and were then devoted to the use of the priests. {AA 336.3 1911}

CHRIST is spoken of as walking in the midst of the GOLDEN CANDLESTICKS. Thus is symbolized His relation to the churches. He is in constant communication with His people. He knows their true state. He observes their order, their piety, their devotion. Although He is high priest and MEDIATOR in the SANCTUARY above, yet He is represented as walking up and down in the midst of His churches on the earth. With untiring wakefulness and unremitting vigilance, He watches to see whether the light of any of His sentinels is burning dim or going out. If the CANDLESTICKS were left to mere human care, the flickering flame would languish and die; but He is the true watchman in the LORD’S house, the true warden of the temple courts. His continued care and sustaining grace are the source of life and light. {AA 586.1 1911}

Chap. 23 – What is the SANCTUARY?

With this reckoning, all was clear and harmonious, except that it was not seen that any event answering to the CLEANSING OF THE SANCTUARY had taken place in 1844. To deny that the days ended at that time was to involve the whole question in confusion, and to renounce positions which had been established by unmistakable fulfillments of prophecy. {GC 410.2 1911}

The matchless splendor of the earthly TABERNACLE reflected to human vision the glories of that HEAVENLY TEMPLE where CHRIST our forerunner ministers for us before the THRONE of GOD. The abiding place of the KING OF KINGS, where thousand thousands minister unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stand before Him (Daniel 7:10); that temple, filled with the glory of the ETERNAL THRONE, where seraphim, its shining guardians, VEIL their faces in adoration, could find, in the most magnificent structure ever reared by human hands, but a faint reflection of its vastness and glory. Yet important truths concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were taught by the earthly SANCTUARY and its services. {GC 414.2 1911}

He shall bear the glory.” To CHRIST belongs the glory of redemption for the fallen race. Through the ETERNAL ages, the song of the ransomed ones will be: “Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, . . . to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.” Revelation 1:5, 6. {GC 416.2 1911}

Chap. 24 – In the HOLY OF HOLIES

The condition of the unbelieving Jews illustrates the condition of the careless and unbelieving among professed Christians, who are willingly ignorant of the work of our merciful HIGH PRIEST. In the typical service, when the high priest entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, all Israel were required to gather about the SANCTUARY and in the most solemn manner humble their souls before GOD, that they might receive the pardon of their sins and not be cut off from the congregation. How much more essential in this antitypical DAY OF ATONEMENT that we understand the work of our HIGH PRIEST and know what duties are required of us. {GC 430.3 1911}

Chap. 25 – GOD’S LAW Immutable

Now the event takes place foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the DAY OF ATONEMENT. When the ministration in the HOLY OF HOLIES had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the SANCTUARY by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, then the scapegoat was presented alive before the LORD; and in the presence of the congregation the high priest confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” Leviticus 16:21. In like manner, when the work of ATONEMENT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY has been completed, then in the presence of GOD and heavenly angels and the hosts of the redeemed the sins of GOD’S people will be placed upon Satan; he will be declared guilty of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scapegoat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so Satan will be banished to the desolate earth, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness. {GC 658.1 1911}

Thou hast defiled thy SANCTUARIES by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffic; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee. All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more.” Ezekiel 28:18, 19. {Lt46-1911}

The lessons given to the children regarding the common duties of the home, may be presented in such a way that through them the LORD can make lasting impressions on their hearts. Make these common things of life texts on which to hang the lessons of the WORD OF GOD. Show your children that in all their work in mechanical lines they must learn to work perfectly. By bringing exactness and skill into their every-day duties, they will learn SPIRITUAL lessons that will remain with them through all their days. GOD requires that good judgment and skill shall be exercised in our planning and labors. In giving instruction for the building of the earthly SANCTUARY, the great TEACHER laid down principles that were to be for the SPIRITUAL help of Israel through all their future experience. The wisdom and perfection brought into that work was typical of the work to be done in their lives in preparing their hearts for the indwelling of the SPIRIT OF GOD. {ST, November 14, 1911 par. 13}

Then he was carried down to the period of time when a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY should be given to GOD’S people; when the VEIL would be parted, and by faith they would enter within the HOLY OF HOLIES. Moses knew something about the SANCTUARY IN HEAVEN; he understood the sacred ministrations connected with the HOLY PLACE and the MOST HOLY. The significance of the typical service in the earthly SANCTUARY was made light and clear by the reflection of the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS upon the types and symbols. {Ms69-1912}

When CHRIST, the MEDIATOR, burst the bands of the tomb, and ascended on high to minister for man, He first entered the HOLY PLACE, where, by virtue of His own sacrifice, He made an offering for the sins of men. With intercession and pleadings He presented before GOD the prayers and repentance and faith of His people, purified by the INCENSE of His own merits. He next entered the MOST HOLY PLACE to make an ATONEMENT for the sins of the people and CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. His work as high priest completes the divine PLAN OF REDEMPTION by making the final ATONEMENT FOR SIN. {Ms69-1912}

In every Christian home GOD should be honored by the morning and evening sacrifices of praise and prayer. Every morning and evening earnest prayers should ascend to GOD for his blessing and guidance. Will the LORD of heaven pass by such homes, and leave no blessing there?–Nay, verily. Angels hear the offering of praise and the prayer of faith, and they bear the petitions to him who ministers in the SANCTUARY for his people, and pleads his merits in their behalf. True prayer takes hold upon OMNIPOTENCE, and gives men the victory. Upon his knees the Christian obtains strength to resist temptation. {RH, February 1, 1912 par. 6}

Everyone that is of the truth,” CHRIST declared, “heareth My voice.” John 18:37. Having stood in the counsels of GOD, having dwelt in the everlasting heights of the SANCTUARY, all elements of truth were in Him and of Him. He was one with GOD. It means more than finite minds can comprehend to present in every missionary effort CHRIST and Him crucified. “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5. “He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21. CHRIST crucified for our sins; CHRIST risen from the dead; CHRIST ascended on high as our INTERCESSOR–this is the science of salvation that we need to learn and to teach. This is to be the burden of our work. {CT 22.2 1913}

Will the LORD of heaven pass by such homes and leave no blessing there? Nay, verily. Ministering angels will guard the children who are thus dedicated to GOD. They hear the offering of praise and the prayer of faith, and they bear the petitions to Him who ministers in the SANCTUARY for His people and offers His merits in their behalf. {CT 110.3 1913}

Students should be taught to resist firmly the allurements to evil which come through association with other youth. Compassed as they are by temptation, an indwelling CHRIST is their only safeguard against evil. They must learn to look to JESUS continually, to study His virtues, to make Him their daily pattern. Then truth, brought into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul, will sanctify the life. They must be trained to weigh their actions, to reason from cause to effect, to measure the ETERNAL loss or gain to the life given to serve the purposes of the enemy or devoted to the service of righteousness. They should be taught to choose as their companions those who give evidence of uprightness of character, those who practice BIBLE TRUTH. By association with those who walk according to principle, even the careless will learn to love righteousness. And by the practice of right doing there will be created in the heart a distaste for that which is cheap and common and at variance with the principles of GOD’S WORD. {CT 221.2 1913}

When speaking of divine things, why not speak in distinct tones in a manner that will make it manifest that you know whereof you speak, and are not ashamed to show your colors? Why not pray as if you had a conscience void of offense, and could come to the THRONE OF GRACE in humility, yet with holy boldness, lifting up holy hands without wrath and doubting? Do not bow down and cover up your faces as if there were something that you desired to conceal; but lift up your eyes toward the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where CHRIST your MEDIATOR stands before the FATHER to present your prayers, mingled with His own merit and spotless righteousness, as fragrant INCENSE. {CT 241.2 1913}

When the laborer stands before the people to hold forth the words of life, there is heard in his voice the echo of the voice of CHRIST. It is evident that he walks with GOD, that he has been with JESUS and learned of Him. He has brought the truth into the INNER SANCTUARY of the soul; it is to him a living reality; and he presents the truth in demonstration of the SPIRIT and of power. The people hear the joyful sound; GOD speaks to their hearts through the man consecrated to His service. {CT 509.2 1913}

We cannot find words fitly to explain the latest development of ideas held by some. They contain threads of pantheism. These ideas are so mixed with the truth, that the truth is made of no effect. These specious theories constitute a denial of the personality of GOD, the ATONEMENT of CHRIST and His work in the SANCTUARY. They take away the vital principles which have made us a separate people. {Ms8-1914}

O LORD GOD of our fathers,” he said, “art not thou GOD in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee? Art not thou our GOD, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend forever? And they dwelt therein, and have built thee a SANCTUARY therein for thy name, saying, If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help. {RH, January 1, 1914 par. 5}

So the posts went with the letters from the king and his princes throughout all Israel and Judah, and according to the commandment of the king, saying, Ye children of Israel, turn again unto the LORD GOD of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, and he will return to the remnant of you, that are escaped out of the hand of the kings of Assyria. And be not ye like your fathers, and like your brethren, which trespassed against the LORD GOD of their fathers, who therefore gave them up to desolation, as ye see. Now be ye not stiffnecked, as your fathers were, but yield yourselves unto the LORD, and enter into his SANCTUARY, which he hath sanctified forever: and serve the LORD your GOD, that the fierceness of his wrath may turn away from you. For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the LORD your GOD is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.” 2 Chronicles 30:1-9. {RH, February 12, 1914 par. 7}

When GOD was about to send Isaiah with a message to His people, He first permitted the prophet to look in vision into the HOLY OF HOLIES within the SANCTUARY. Suddenly the gate and the INNER VEIL of the temple seemed to be uplifted or withdrawn, and he was permitted to gaze within, upon the HOLY OF HOLIES, where even the prophet’s feet might not enter. There rose before him a vision of JEHOVAH sitting upon a THRONE high and lifted up, while the train of His glory filled the temple. Around the THRONE were seraphim, as guards about the great King, and they reflected the glory that surrounded them. As their songs of praise resounded in deep notes of adoration, the pillars of the gate trembled, as if shaken by an earthquake. With lips unpolluted by sin, these angels poured forth the praises of GOD. “Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts,” they cried; “the whole earth is full of His glory.” [See Isaiah 6:1-8.] {GW 21.1 1915}

As GOD’S ministers look by faith into the HOLY OF HOLIES, and see the work of our great HIGH PRIEST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, they realize that they are men of unclean lips, men whose tongues have often spoken vanity. Well may they despair as they contrast their own unworthiness with the perfection of CHRIST. With contrition of heart, feeling wholly unworthy and unfit for their great work, they cry,”I am undone.” But if, like Isaiah, they humble their hearts before GOD, the work done for the prophet will be performed for them. Their lips will be touched with a live coal from off the ALTAR, and they will lose sight of self in a sense of the greatness and power of GOD and His readiness to help them. They will realize the sacredness of the work entrusted to them, and will be led to abhor everything that would cause them to dishonor Him who has sent them forth with His message. {GW 22.41915}

The terrible condition of the world would seem to indicate that the death of CHRIST has been almost in vain, and that Satan has triumphed. The great majority of this earth’s inhabitants have given their allegiance to the enemy. But we have not been deceived. Notwithstanding the apparent triumph of Satan, CHRIST is carrying forward His work in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and on the earth. The WORD OF GOD portrays the wickedness and corruption that would exist in the last days. As we see the fulfilment of prophecy, our faith in the final triumph of CHRIST’S kingdom should strengthen; and we should go forth with renewed courage to do our appointed work. {GW 26.2 1915}

The priests were not allowed to enter the SANCTUARY with their shoes on their feet; for the particles of dust cleaving to them would desecrate the HOLY PLACE. They were to leave their shoes in the court before entering the SANCTUARY, and also to wash their hands and their feet before ministering in the TABERNACLE or at the ALTAR OF BURNT OFFERING. Thus was constantly taught the lesson that all defilement must be put away from those who would come into the presence of GOD. {GW 173.3 1915}

In time past there have been presented to me for my opinion many non-essential, fanciful theories. Some have ADVOCATEd the theory that believers should pray with their eyes open. Others teach that, because those who ministered anciently in sacred office were required, upon entering the SANCTUARY, to remove their sandals and wash their feet, believers now should remove their shoes when entering the house of worship. Still others refer to the sixth commandment, and declare that even the insects that torment human beings should not be killed. And some have put forth the theory that the redeemed will not have gray hair–as if this were a matter of any importance. {GW 313.1915}

But the LORD gave me a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The TEMPLE OF GOD was open in heaven, and I was shown the ARK OF GOD covered with the MERCY SEAT. Two angels stood one at either end of the ARK, with their wings spread over the MERCY SEAT, and their faces turned toward it. This, my accompanying angel informed me, represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward the LAW OF GOD, which had been written by the FINGER OF GOD. {LS 95.4 1915}

The sin that resulted so disastrously to Uzziah was one of presumption. In violation of a plain command of JEHOVAH,–that none but the descendants of Aaron should officiate as priests, the king entered the SANCTUARY “to burn INCENSE upon the ALTAR.” Azariah the high priest and his associates remonstrated, and pleaded with him to turn from his purpose. “Thou hast trespassed,” they urged; “neither shall it be for thine honor.” 2 Chronicles 26:5-18. {RH, March 4, 1915 par. 3}

Uzziah was filled with wrath, that he, the king, should be thus rebuked. But he was not permitted to profane the SANCTUARY against the united protest of those in authority. While standing there in wrathful rebellion, he was suddenly smitten with a divine judgment. Leprosy appeared on his forehead. In dismay he fled, never again to enter the temple courts. Unto the day of his death, some years later, Uzziah remained a leper–a living example of the folly of departing from a plain “Thus saith the LORD.” Neither his exalted position nor his long life of service could be pleaded as an excuse for the presumptuous sin by which he marred the closing years of his reign, and brought upon himself the judgment of Heaven. {RH, March 4, 1915 par. 4}

As Isaiah beheld this revelation of the glory and majesty of his LORD, he was overwhelmed with a sense of the purity and HOLINESS OF GOD. How sharp the contrast between the matchless perfection of his CREATOR and the sinful course of those who, with himself, had long been numbered among the chosen people of Israel and Judah! “Woe is me!” he cried; “for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.” Verse 5. Standing, as it were, in the full light of the divine presence within the INNER SANCTUARY, he realized that if left to his own imperfection and inefficiency, he would be utterly unable to accomplish the mission to which he had been called. But a seraph was sent to relieve him of his distress, and to fit him for his great mission. A living coal from the ALTAR was laid upon his lips, with the words, “Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.” Then the VOICE OF GOD was heard saying, “Whom shall I send? and who will go for us?” and Isaiah responded, “Here am I; send me.” Verses 7, 8. {RH, March 11, 1915 par. 7}

But in Judah there dwelt some who, amid the prevailing apostasy, maintained their allegiance to JEHOVAH, steadfastly refusing to be led into idolatry. It was to these that Isaiah and Micah and their associates looked in hope as they surveyed the ruin wrought during the last years of Ahaz. Their SANCTUARY was closed, but the faithful ones were assured: “GOD is with us. . . . Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. And he shall be for a SANCTUARY.” Isaiah 8:10, 13, 14. {RH, April 8, 1915 par. 10}

It was a time for quick action. The priests began at once. Enlisting the cooperation of others of their number who had not been present during this conference, they engaged heartily in the work of CLEANSING and SANCTIFYING the TEMPLE. Because of the years of desecration and neglect, this was attended with many difficulties; but the priests and the Levites labored untiringly, and within a remarkably short time they were able to report their task completed. The temple doors had been repaired and thrown open; the sacred vessels had been assembled and put into place; and all was in readiness for the reestablishment of the SANCTUARY services. {RH, April 22, 1915 par. 6}

In the years that followed the occupation of the Promised Land, the beneficent designs of JEHOVAH for the salvation of the heathen were almost wholly lost sight of, and it became necessary for him to set forth his plan anew. “All the ends of the world,” the psalmist was inspired to sing, “shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.” Psalms 22:27. “Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto GOD.” Psalms 68:31. “The heathen shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth thy glory.” “This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the LORD. For he hath looked down from the height of his SANCTUARY; from heaven did the LORD behold the earth; to hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are appointed to death; to declare the name of the LORD in Zion, and his praise in Jerusalem; when the people are gathered together, and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.” Psalms 102:15, 18-22. {RH, June 17, 1915 par. 9}

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Sanctuary – Part 4 [S.o.P.]