14 Supplement to the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
servants have to deal plainly, and not cover up wrongs, but act openly;
for they are standing between the living and the dead, and must render
an account of the faithfulness of their mission, and the influence they
exert over the flock of which the Lord has made them overseers.
These jewels who received the truth and are brought into such
trials, would have had the truth the same if these men (who lack the
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qualifications they must have to be the Lord’s messengers) had stayed
away, and filled the humble place God designed for them. God’s
eye was upon his jewels, and he would direct his called and chosen
messengers to them; men that would move understandingly, and the
light of truth would shine and discover to these souls their true position,
and they would receive the truth understandingly, and be satisfied with
its beauty and clearness. And as they feel the effects and power of the
truth, will be strong and shed a holy influence.
Again: the danger of those traveling, whom God has not called,
was shown me. If they do have some success, the qualifications
that are lacking will be felt. Injudicious moves will be made, and
some precious jewels may be driven off by a lack of wisdom, where
they never can be reached. I saw that the church should feel their
responsibility, and should look carefully and attentively at the lives,
qualifications, and general course of those who profess to be teachers.
And if unmistakable evidence is not given that God has called them,
and that the “woe” is upon them if they heed not this call, it is the duty
of the church to act, and let it be known that they are not acknowledged
teachers by the church. This is the only course the church can take in
order to be clear in this matter; for the burden lays upon them.
I saw that this door that the enemy comes in at, to perplex and
trouble the flock, can be shut. I inquired of the angel how this door
could be closed. Said he, “The church must flee to God’s word, and
become established upon gospel order which has been overlooked and
neglected.” This is indispensably necessary to bring the church into
the unity of the faith. I saw that they were in danger in the apostles’
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days of being imposed upon and deceived by false teachers; and men
were chosen by the brethren, or church, who had given good evidence
that they were capable of ruling well their own house, and preserving
order in their own families; men that could enlighten those who were
in darkness. Inquiry was made of God concerning them, and then,
according to the mind of the church, and the Holy Ghost, they were