44
Selected Messages Book 1
I have been told that many who give heed to the false science of
the enemy would denounce my work as that of a false prophet, and
would place upon the testimony such interpretations as tend to change
the truth of God into a lie. Satan is on the alert; and some who in
the past have been used by the Lord in doing His work, but who have
permitted themselves to be deceived, will be stirred up to make an
improper use of the messages given. Because they do not wish to
listen to the words of reproof, because they will not hear counsel, and
improve their course of action, and do their appointed work, they will
misconstrue the messages to the church, and confuse many minds.
Nevertheless, I am to bear the message that is given me to bear, so
long as the Lord shall choose. He has not given me the work of settling
all the misunderstandings that are cherished in hearts of unbelief.
Just as long as a door is open to receive the tempter’s suggestions,
[53]
difficulties will multiply. The hearts of those who will not come to
the light are open to unbelief. If my time and strength are consumed
upon such matters, this serves Satan’s purposes. The Lord has said to
me: “Bear the testimonies. Your work is not to settle difficulties; your
work is to reprove, and to present the righteousness of Christ.”
An Incident
At one time in the early days of the message, Father Butler and
Elder Hart became confused in regard to the testimonies. In great
distress they groaned and wept, but for some time they would not
give the reasons for their perplexity. However, being pressed to give a
reason for their faithless speech and manner, Elder Hart referred to a
small pamphlet that had been published as the visions of Sister White,
and said that to his certain knowledge, some visions were not included.
Before a large audience, these brethren both talked strongly about their
losing confidence in the work.
My husband handed the little pamphlet to Elder Hart, and requested
him to read what was printed on the title page. “A Sketch of the
Christian Experience and Views of Mrs. E. G. White“, he read.
For a moment there was silence, and then my husband explained
that we had been very short of means, and were able to print at first only
a small pamphlet, and he promised the brethren that when sufficient