Chapter 37—Literature for Adventist Homes
Spirit of Prophecy Books in Every Family—The volumes of
Spirit of Prophecy [
A four-volume series of books by Ellen White
depicting the conflict of the ages theme. The first three volumes ap-
peared in the 1870’s. Volume 4 was printed in 1884 and was followed
by the 1888 and 1911 editions of the same book titled The Great Con-
troversy. The current edition was printed first in 1911.
], and also the
Testimonies, should be introduced into every Sabbathkeeping family,
and the brethren should know their value and be urged to read them. It
was not the wisest plan to place these books at a low figure and have
only one set in a church. They should be in the library of every family
and read again and again. Let them be kept where they can be read by
many, and let them be worn out in being read by all the neighbors.
There should be evening readings, in which one should read aloud
to those assembled at the winter fireside. There is but little interest
manifested to make the most of the light given of God. Much of it
is concerning family duties, and instruction is given to meet almost
every case and circumstance. Money will be expended for tea, coffee,
ribbons, ruffles, and trimmings, and much time and labor spent in
preparing the apparel, while the inward work of the heart is neglected.
God has caused precious light to be brought out in publications, and
these should be owned and read by every family. Parents, your children
are in danger of going contrary to the light given of heaven, and you
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should both purchase and read the books, for they will be a blessing to
you and yours. You should lend Spirit of Prophecy to your neighbors
and prevail upon them to buy copies for themselves. Missionaries for
God, you should be earnest, active, vigorous workers.
Many are going directly contrary to the light which God has given
to His people, because they do not read the books which contain the
light and knowledge in cautions, reproofs, and warnings. The cares
of the world, the love of fashion, and the lack of religion have turned
the attention from the light God has so graciously given, while books
and periodicals containing error are traveling all over the country.
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