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That the Church Is the Object of God’s Supreme
Regard, January 7
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having
spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and
without blemish.
Ephesians 5:27
.
The church, enfeebled and defective though it be, is the only object
on earth on which Christ bestows His supreme regard. He is constantly
watching it with solicitude, and is strengthening it by His Holy Spirit. Will
we, as members of His church, allow Him to impress our minds and to
work through us to His glory
Christ loves His church. He will give all needed help to those who call
upon Him for strength for the development of Christlike character. But
His love is not weakness. He will not serve with their sins or give them
prosperity while they continue to follow a wrong course of action. Only
by faithful repentance will their sins be forgiven; for God will not cover
evil with the robe of His righteousness. He will honor faithful service.
He will abundantly bless those who reveal to their fellowmen His justice,
mercy, and love. Let those who are engaged in His service walk before
Him in true humility, following faithfully in His footsteps, cherishing the
holy principles which will live through the eternal ages. Let them in word
and action show that they obey the laws which are obeyed in heaven
The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and
through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to “the princi-
palities and powers in heavenly places,” the final and full display of the
love of God.... The church is God’s fortress, His city of refuge, which
He holds in a revolted world.... It is the theater of His grace, in which He
delights to reveal His power to transform hearts
God’s love for His church is infinite. His care over His heritage is
unceasing
[14]
23
Ellen G. White
Manuscript 155, 1902
.
24
Ellen G. White
Manuscript 52, 1901
.
25
The Acts of the Apostles, 9-12
.
26
The General Conference Bulletin, July 1, 1900
.
12