And [ye] are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. Ephesians 2:20.
None need to feel it too humiliating to... present themselves as seeking at the throne of grace for larger supplies. The temple doors are to be opened. The temple of the soul is to be cleansed from moral defilement, altars of sacrifice set right, selfishness cleansed away from the soul, idols sacrificed...
We frequently have brought to our notice cases of youth who are bewildered by the teachers and the ministry of the Word in the churches of today, because they are doing as the Jewish nation did, “teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” ... The Bible is taken as a whole [as] the Word of God, but not all the Inspired Word. One wise man questions some portions of it and some other wise, supposed good man questions another book, and infidelity is stealthily making itself a place in the minds of youth. Soon the knowledge of the truth weakens and their faith is confused. They do not know what to believe...
When one places his feet on the solid Rock Christ Jesus as his foundation, he receives an endowment of power from the Source of all knowledge, all wisdom and spiritual efficiency, that all may know to which party he belongs—commandment-keepers, or commandment-breakers. The banner of Prince Emmanuel that floats over his head will not fail to clear away all uncertainty and give all to understand that we keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. The love of Jesus Christ possesses a constraining power...
The living out of Bible truth gives a direct and powerful tendency to expansion and growth. Every virtue becomes invigorated as it is exercised. It is a sore trial to drag ourselves away from worldly, deceiving influences. Every step that we advance we see obstacles that Satan presents, and we have to wrestle with difficulties, but an experience is being gained in having to press against these barriers, for the way opens, fresh incentives are presented from heaven, and faith becomes confirmed as we look upon Christ.
The attractions of Christ are all-satisfying, and through Christ Jesus we read our title to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away. His grace is seen to be all-sufficient. The sympathy and love of Jesus are beseeching, wooing, drawing us to follow on in His footsteps, to know the Lord until we shall know His going forth is prepared as the morning.—Letter 128, December 22, 1895, to Edson and Emma White.
Reference: E.G. White, "The Upward Look," p. 370.
