"The ministers are opening up their tirade, and against Mrs. White in
particular. But this is only hurting themselves . . I am placing Desire of Ages,
Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Christ Our Saviour in families;
so, while the ministers are working against me, I will speak in my writings to
the people. I believe souls will be converted to the truth. We are now turning
them to the law and to the testimonies. If they speak not according to this
word, it is because there is no light in them." —Letter 217,
Here are several incidents in Ellen's life in which individuals have been
helped through the reading of Great Controversy: In 1893, a non-Adventist
minister attended an Adventist church service, and afterward spoke with Ellen:
"This Sabbath was a most precious day to his soul; he said that he had never had
a happier day in his life.
"He afterward desired an interview with me, we had a pleasant visit. His
conversation was very interesting, and we had a precious season of prayer
together. I believe that he is a servant of God. I gave him my books Great
Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Steps to Christ. He seemed much
pleased, said he wanted all the light he could get in order to meet the
opponents of our faith. He was baptized before leaving for his home, and will
return to present the truth to his own congregation." —Manuscript 4, 1893
(Evangelism, p. 277:1).
In early May 1994, Ellen, with a helper, visited the Radley family in Castle
Hill, Australia. The wife was favorable to the Sabbath, but the husband was
resisting the truth. Ellen received a vision in which she was told, "Go to
Brother Radley, place your books before him, and this will save his soul."
"I visited with him, taking with me a few of my large books. I talked with him
just as though he were with us. I talked of his responsibilities. I said, 'You
have great responsibilities, my brother. Here are your neighbors all around
you. You are accountable for everyone of them. You have a knowledge of the
truth, and if you love the truth and stand in your integrity, you will win souls
for Christ.' "He looked at me in a queer way, as much as to say, 'I do not think
you know that I have given up the truth, that I have allowed my girls to go to
dances and the Sunday School, that we do not keep the Sabbath.' But I did know
it. However, I talked to him just at though he were with us.
" 'Now,' I said, 'we are going to help you to begin to work for your neighbors.
I want to make you a present of some books.'
"He said, 'We have a library, from which we draw books. '
"I said, 'I do not see any books here. Perhaps you feel delicate about drawing
from the library. I have come to give you these books, so that your children can
read them, and this will be a strength to you.'
"I knelt down and prayed with him, and when we rose, the tears were rolling down
his face as he said, 'I am glad you came to see me. I thank you for the books.'
"The next time I visited him, he told me that he had read part of Patriarchs and
Prophets. He said, 'There is not one syllable I could change. Every paragraph
speaks right to my soul.'
"I asked Brother Radley which of my large books he considered the most
important. He said, 'I lend them all to my neighbors, and the hotelkeeper thinks
that Great Controversy is the best. But,' he said, while his lips quivered, 'I
think that Patriarchs and Prophets is best. It is that which pulled me out of
the mire.' "—1901 General Conference Bulletin, pp. 84-85 (Evangelism, pp.
451—452).
Soon after, Brother Radley was baptized, along with his entire family, and
united with a local congregation of believers. Several of the children later
spent their lives in the work.
In 1896, Ellen wrote of a family at Dora Creek (near Avondale) who had accepted
the truth after attending meetings and reading Great Controversy (Letter 167,
1896, written June 1, 1896).
In August 1990, as she was returning from Australia to America, Ellen read
several letters handed to her as the group departed Sydney. One was from a
convert who had expressed his gratitude for Great Controversy, for it was
through that book that he came to God and into an acceptance of the Third
Angel's Message. (See The Early Elmshaven Years, p. 519.)
Here is her experience with the head of the Women's Christian Temperance
Organization, a nationwide antiliquor group. (Dr. Merritt G. Kellogg was the
brother of J.H. Kellogg and a very successfully non-drug-physician. He earlier
helped found the Battle Creek Sanitarium, and, later still, the St. Helena
Sanitarium.) Contrary to the pattern recommended today of sharing it "later,"
Ellen White was not afraid to give Great Controversy to anyone on first meeting
them:
"Dr. M.G. Kellogg came to my tent to see if I would have an interview with the
president and secretary of the W.C.T.U. We invited them to our tent, and we had
a very pleasant visit. The president is a strict vegetarian, not having tasted
meat for four years. She bears a clear countenance, which does credit to her
abstemious habits. The secretary is a young woman. Both are ladies of
intelligence. They manifest deep interest in all they have heard. They have made
a request that I speak in the beautiful hall in which they hold their meetings,
and they asked Brother Starr to write for their temperance paper.
"The president expressed an earnest desire that we should harmonize in the
temperance work. 'Be assured,' they said, 'we shall enter every door open to us
that we may let our light shine to others. ' They seemed highly gratified in
seeing and hearing and being convinced that the fruits of the Spirit are
possessed and revealed by this people. I gave each of them a copy of Christian
Temperance, to one The Great Controversy, to the other Patriarchs and Prophets.
"—Manuscript 2, 1894 (Temperance, p. 262).
The Introduction to Great Controversy clearly explains the reason why it was
written and the objectives that it will help fulfill in the lives of all willing
to read and accept its message. You will find the Introduction at the front of
the book. (In the 1888 edition, it is called the Author's Preface; and, in the
1911, it is titled The Introduction. This preface or introduction was not in the
1884 edition.)
The entire Introduction is invaluable. The basic content of the book is
described in these two paragraphs:
"Through the illumination of the Holy Spirit, the scenes of the long continued
conflict between good and evil, have been opened to the writer of these pages.
From time to time I have been permitted to behold the workings, in different
ages, of the great controversy between Christ, the Prince of life, the author of
salvation; and Satan, the author of evil, the first transgressor of God's holy
law."[Great Controversy, p. 13, old edition: p. 10 (1888)].
"As the Spirit of God has opened to my mind the great truths of His Word and the
scenes of the past and the future, I have been bidden to make known to others
that which has thus been revealed to trace the history of the controversy in
past ages, and especially so to present it as to shed a light on the
fast-approaching struggle of the future. In these records we may see a
foreshadowing of the conflict before us. Regarding them in the light of God's
Word and by the illumination of His Spirit, we may see unveiled the devices of
the wicked one and the dangers which they must shun who would be found without
fault before the lord at His corning." —Great Controversy, p. 11:2-3 [old
edition, p. 9:2-31, 1888.
The seven objectives of the book are plainly stated in this powerful paragraph:
"To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and error; to
reveal the wiles of Satan and the means by which he may be successfully
resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great problem of evil,
shedding such light on origin and the final disposition of sin as to make fully
manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all His dealing with His
creatures; and to show the holy, unchanging nature of the law is the object of
the book. That through its influence souls may be delivered from the powers of
darkness, and become 'partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;' to
the praise of Him who loves us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest prayer
of the writer. " —Great Controversy, p. xii (in current edition).
The above three quotations are worth reading and thinking about quite a while.
In 1905, after the 1884 and 1888 editions had been printed, Ellen wrote this:
"Great Controversy should be very widely circulated. It contains the story of
the past, the present, and the future. In its outline of the closing scenes of
this earth's history, it bears a powerful testimony in behalf of the truth. I am
more anxious to see a wide circulation for this book than for any others I have
written; for in the Great Controversy, the last message of warning to the world
is given more distinctly than in any of my other books."—Letter 281, 1905
(Colporteur Ministry, p. 127).
You will find that most of her strong affirmations of that book were penned
after 1888. That is not to say that the 1884 edition is not a good one also, but
it clearly shows that the 1888 was not a bad one. And what about the 1911
edition? It is a mirror image of the 1888, plus some corrections, which do not
affect the teachings and a number of changed historian statements, so references
can be given with them.
Here are more of her expressions of confidence in that book, and the powerful
good it can and will do when it is read and shared with others:
"We are warned to avoid the mistakes the Israelites made in stubbornly refusing
to receive the warnings that came to them from God." —Letter 229, 1903.
"The results of the circulation of this book [Great Controversy] are not to be
judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will
have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments of
God. But a much larger number of those who read it will not take their position
until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in it. The
fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others will also
come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord in the
closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of God as
the result of this agency."—Manuscript 31, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, pp.
128-129).
Here are statements about Great Controversy and similar books, which tell the
facts about the great controversy between Christ and Satan:
"Many will depart from the faith and give heed to seducing spirits. Patriarchs
and Prophets and Great Controversy are books that are especially adapted to
those who have newly come to the faith, that they may be established in the
truth. The dangers are pointed out that should be avoided by the church. Those
who become thoroughly acquainted with the lessons in these books will see the
dangers before them, and will be able to discern the plain, straight path
marked out for them. They will be kept from strange paths. They will make
straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the
way."—Colporteur Ministry, pp. 129-130 (Evangelism, p. 366).
"Let there be an interest awakened in the sale of these books. Their sale is
essential, for they contain timely instruction from the Lord. They should be
appreciated as books that bring to the people light that is especially needed
just now. Therefore these books should be widely distributed. Those who make a
careful study of the instruction contained in them, and will receive it as from
the Lord, will be kept from receiving many of the errors that are being
introduced. Those who accept the truth contained in these books will not be led
into false paths." —Colporteur Ministry, p. 130.
"In Desire of Ages, Patriarchs and Prophets, Great Controversy, and in Daniel
and Revelation there is precious instruction. These books must be regarded as of
special importance, and every effort should be made to get them before the
people."—Colporteur Ministry, p. 123.
"The larger books, Patriarchs and Prophets, Great Controversy, and Desire of
Ages, should be sold everywhere. These books contain truth for this time—truth
that is to be proclaimed in all parts of the world. Nothing is to hinder their
sale." —Colporteur Evangelist, p. 35 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 124; Review,
January 20, 1903).
"The light given was that Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation, Great
Controversy, and Patriarchs and Prophets would make their way. They contain the
very message the people must have, the special light God has given His people.
The angels of God would prepare the way for these books in the hearts of the
people." —Colporteur Ministry, pp. 123—124.
"Instruction has been given me that the important books containing the light
that God has given regarding Satan's apostasy in heaven should be given a wide
circulation just now; for through them the truth will reach many minds.
Patriarchs and Prophets, Daniel and Revelation, and the Great Controversy are
needed now as never before; they should be widely circulated because the truths
they emphasize will open many blind eyes. . Many of our people have been blind
to the importance of the very books that were most needed. Had tact and skill
then been shown in the sale of these books, the Sunday-law movement would not be
where it is today."—Colporteur Evangelist, p. 21 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 123;
Review, February 16, 1905).
"Sister White is not the originator of these books. They contain the instruction
that during her lifework God has been giving her. They contain the precious,
comforting light that God has graciously given His servants to be given to the
world. From their pages this light is to shine into the hearts of men and women,
leading them to the Saviour. The Lord has declared that these books are to be
scattered throughout the world. There is in them truth which to the receiver is
a savor of life unto life. They are silent witnesses for God. In the past they
have been the means in His hands of convicting and converting many souls. Many
have read them with eager expectation, and by reading them, have been led to see
the efficacy of Christ's atonement, and to trust in its power. They have been
led to commit the keeping of their souls to their Creator, waiting and hoping
for the coming of the Saviour to take His loved ones to their eternal home. In
the future these books are to make the gospel plain to many others, revealing to
them the way of salvation." Colporteur Ministry, p. 125 (Review, January 20,
1903).
"My brethren and sisters, work earnestly to circulate these books. Put your
hearts into this work, and the blessing of God will be with you. Go forth in
faith, praying that God will prepare hearts to receive the light."—Colporteur
Evangelist, pp. 36-37 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126; Review, January 20, 1903).
"How many have read carefully Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and
the Desire of Ages? I wish all to understand that my confidence in the light
that God has given stands firm because I know that the Holy Spirit's power
magnified the truth and made it honorable, saying, 'This is the way, walk ye in
it.' In my books the truth is stated, barricaded by a thus saith the Lord. The
Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart and mind as indelibly as the law
was traced by the finger of God upon the tables of stone which are now in the
ark to be brought forth in that great day when sentence will be pronounced
against every evil, seducing science produced by the father of lies."—Letter 90,
1906 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126:2).
Here are additional statements:
“Canvassers should be secured to handle the books, Great Controversy, Patriarchs
and Prophets, Desire of Ages, Daniel and Revelation, and other books of like
character, who have a sense of the value of the matter these books contain, and
a realization of the work to be done to interest people in the truth. Special
help, which is above all the supposed advantages of illustrations, will be given
to such canvassers. Canvassers who are born again by the work of the Holy
Spirit, will be accompanied by angels, who will go before them to the dwellings
of the people, preparing the way for them." —Manuscript 131, 1899 (Colporteur
Ministry, p. 88:1).
"The ministers (non-S.D.A.) are opening up their tirade, and against Mrs. White
in particular. But this is only hurting themselves. . I am placing Desire of
Ages, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Christ Our Saviour in
families; so that while the ministers are working against me, I will speak in my
writings to the people. I believe souls will be converted to the truth. We are
now turning them to the law and to the testimonies. If they speak not according
to this word, it is because there is no light in them."—Letter 217, 1899
(Evangelism pp. 259:2 and 260:0).
Here are still more quotations:
"God gave me the light contained in Great Controversy and Patriarchs and
Prophets, and this light was needed to arouse the people to prepare for the
great day of God, which is just before us. These books contain God's direct
appeal to the people. Thus He is speaking to the people in stirring words,
urging them to make ready for His coming, The light God has given in these
books should not be concealed, "—Manuscript 23, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, p.
129).
"I do not demerit Bible Readings. It is a book, which will do a great amount of
good, but it can never take the place the Lord designed that Volume Four should
have in the world and among our people. I have spread before them the light
given me of heaven in that book.
"It is a duty we owe to our people and to God, to send every ray of light given
me of God, demanded at this time for every tongue and nation,"—Letter 25a, 1889.
"We are warned to avoid the mistakes the Israelites made in stubbornly refusing
to receive the warnings that came to them from God," —Letter 229, 1903.
"The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity
she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding
circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld
must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith."—5
Testimonies, p. 463.
"The Lord has sent His people much instruction, line upon line, precept upon
precept, here a little, there a little. Little heed has been given to the
Bible, and the Lord has given a lesser light to lead men and women to the
greater light. Oh, how much good would be accomplished if the books containing
this light were read with a determination to carry out the principles they
contain! There would be a thousand fold greater vigilance, a thousand fold more
self-denial, and resolute effort. And many more would now be rejoicing in the
light of present truth." Colporteur Ministry, pp. 125-126 (Review, January 20,
1903).
"My brethren and sisters, work earnestly to circulate these books. Put your
hearts into this work, and the blessing of God will be with you. Go forth in
faith, praying that God will prepare hearts to receive the light."—Colporteur
Evangelist, pp. 36-37 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126; Review, January 20, 1903).
Ellen White had a very important dream on the night of March 2, 1907. That
afternoon she had been counseling with S.N. Haskell and his wife, discussing
evangelistic work in the Oakland area and their forthcoming journey to
Massachusetts.
Retiring to bed afterward, Ellen was weary and in pain from arthritis, but at
last fell asleep. At 9:30 p.m. she was awakened, free from pain, to a vision of
loveliness. Afterward she slept again. In the extended dream which followed,
these topics were presented: (1) She was shown the importance of reading and
circulating widely the books about the great controversy message, especially
those written by herself (9T, pp. 66-67). (2) In vivid contrast with the pure
truth in those books were the errors in the worldly books, and in J.H. Kellogg's
book, Living Temple (9T, pp. 66-69). (3) After this, she was shown the
importance of printing and selling the important books, but not so cheaply as to
drive the publishing house into closure, and not at an exorbitant price either
(9T, pp. 69-75). (4) Other matters were also revealed.
Here are the portions of that dream which concern Great Controversy and similar
books, as well as the price they should be sold at:
"About half past nine I attempted to turn myself, and as I did so, I became
aware that my body was entirely free from pain. As l turned from side to side,
and moved my hands, I experienced an extraordinary freedom and lightness that I
cannot describe. The room was filled with light, a most beautiful, soft, azure
light, and I seemed to be in the arms of heavenly beings.
"This peculiar light I have experienced in the past in times of special
blessing, but this time it was more distinct, more impressive, and I felt such
peace, peace so full and abundant no words can express it. I raised myself into
a sitting posture, and I saw that I was surrounded by a bright cloud, white as
snow, the edges of which were tinged with a deep pink. The softest, sweetest
music was filling the air, and I recognized the music as the singing of the
angels. Then a Voice spoke to me, saying: 'Fear not; I am your Saviour. Holy
angels are all about you.' " 'Then this is heaven,' I said, 'and now I can be at
rest. I shall have no more messages to bear, no more misrepresentations to
endure. Everything will be easy now, and I shall enjoy peace and rest. Oh, what
inexpressible peace fills my soul! Is this indeed heaven? Am l one of God's
little children? and shall I always have this peace?'
"The Voice replied: 'Your work is not yet done.' "Again I fell asleep, and when
I awoke I heard music, and I wanted to sing. Then someone passed my door, and I
wondered if that person saw the light. After a time the light passed away, but
the peace remained.
"After a while I fell asleep again. This time I seemed to be in a council
meeting where our bookwork was being discussed. There were a number of our
brethren present, leaders in our work, and Elder Haskell and his wife were there
consulting together and with the brethren about the circulation of our books,
tracts, and periodicals.
"Elder Haskell was presenting strong reasons why the books which contain the
knowledge that has been communicated to Sister White —the books containing the
special message to come to the world at this present time—should be more freely
circulated. 'Why,' he inquired, 'do not our people appreciate and circulate more
widely the books bearing the divine credentials? Why is not a specialty made of
the books containing the warnings regarding Satan's work? Why do we not give
greater effort to circulating the books that point out Satan's plans to
counterwork the work of God, that uncover his plans and point out his
deceptions? The moral evils of his deceptions are to be removed by opening the
eyes of the people so that they shall discern the situation and the dangers of
our times; so that they shall make diligent effort to lay hold by faith upon
Christ and His righteousness.'
“A messenger from heaven stood in our midst, and he spoke words of warning and
instruction. He made us clearly understand that the gospel of the kingdom is the
message for which the world is perishing and that this message, as contained in
our publications already in print and those yet to be issued, should be
circulated among the people who are nigh and afar off."—9 Testimonies, pp.
65-67.
"The work of bookmaking is a grand and good work; but it has not always stood in
the high and holy position that God designed it should occupy, because self has
been interwoven with the work of some who have engaged in it. The bookwork
should be the means of quickly giving the sacred light of present truth to the
world. The publications that come forth from our presses today are to be of
such a character as to strengthen every pin and pillar of the faith that was
established by the Word of God and by the revelations of His Spirit.
"The truth that God has given for His people in these last days should keep them
firm when there come into the church those who present false theories. The truth
that has stood firm against the attacks of the enemy for more than half a
century must still be the confidence and comfort of God's people.
"Our evidence to non professors that we have the truth of the Word of God will
be given in a life of strict self-denial. We must not make a mockery of our
faith, but ever keep before us the example of Him who, though He was the Prince
of heaven, stooped to a life of self-denial and sacrifice to vindicate the
righteousness of His Father's Word. Let us each resolve to do our best, that the
light of our good works may shine forth to the world.
"Perfect agreement should exist in the plans laid for the publications of our
books and periodicals, that the light which they contain may be quickly carried
everywhere to the nominal churches and to the world. Much more should have been
accomplished in the sale of our books than we see accomplished today.
"Our ministers should call upon the church members to let the truth triumph.
'Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon
thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the
people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon
thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of
thy rising.' Isaiah 60:1-3. Unity and love will accomplish wonderful things for
the believers. Will not our churches arouse and give the last warning message to
the world?"—9 Testimonies pp. 69-70.
"God designs that we shall learn lessons from the failures of the past. It is
not pleasing to Him to have debts rest upon His institutions. We have reached
the time when we must give character to the work by refusing to erect large and
costly buildings. We are not to copy the mistakes of the past and become more
and more involved in debt. We are rather to endeavor to clear off the
indebtedness that still remains on our institutions. Our churches can help in
this matter if they will. Those members to whom the Lord has given means can
invest their money in the cause without interest or at a low rate of interest,
and by their freewill offerings they can help to support the work. The Lord asks
you to return cheerfully to Him a portion of the goods He has lent you, and thus
become His almoners.
"Afterward we were in camp meetings and in large meetings in our churches, where
the ministers presented clearly the perils of the times in which we live and the
great importance of making haste in the circulation of our literature. In
response to these appeals the brethren and sisters came forward and purchased
many books. Some took a few, and some purchased large quantities. Most of the
purchasers paid for the books they took. A few arranged to pay afterward.
"Because books were being sold at low prices, some being especially reduced for
the occasion, many were purchased, and some by persons not of our faith. They
said: 'it must be that these books contain a message for us. These people are
willing to make sacrifices in order that we may have them, and we will secure
them for ourselves and our friends.'
"But dissatisfaction was expressed by some of our own people. One said: 'A stop
must be put to this work, or our business will be spoiled.' As one brother was
carrying away an armful of books, a canvasser laid his hand upon his arm and
said: 'My brother, what are you doing with so many books?' Then I heard the
voice of our Counselor saying: 'Forbid them not. This is a work that should be
done. The end is near. Already much time has been lost, when these books should
have been in circulation. Sell them far and near. Scatter them like the leaves
of autumn. This work is to continue without the forbiddings of anyone. Souls
are perishing out of Christ. Let them be warned of His soon appearing in the
clouds of heaven.'
"Some of the workers continued to appear much cast down. One was weeping and
said: 'These are doing the publishing work an injustice by purchasing these
books at so Iowa price; besides, this work is depriving us of some of the
revenue by which our work is sustained.' The Voice replied: 'You are meeting
with no loss. These workers who take the books at reduced prices could not
obtain so ready sale for them except it be at this so-called sacrifice. Many are
now purchasing for their friends and for themselves who otherwise would not
think of buying.'
"Then instruction was given to Elder Haskell that in his anxiety to supply the
people with the precious truth contained in his books, in his desire that all
should feel that the books are worth more than they cost, and that all should be
encouraged to give them a wide circulation, he was selling his books too cheap,
and thus making his own burden too heavy.
"Our
Counselor said: 'The books should be sold in such a way that the author will not
be left barehanded and that the publishing house shall have a proper margin so
that it will have means to carryon its work.' "—9 Testimonies pp. 71-73.
"Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought for God in
the simplicity of faith and love. The value of service to God is measured by the
spirit in which it is rendered, rather than by the length of time spent in
labor.
"I am very desirous that the light contained in my books shall come to every
soul possible, for God has sent the message for all. These books contain
precious lessons in Christian experience. I would not dare forbid that these
books be sold on special occasions at a low price, lest I should hinder the
reading of the books, and thus withhold the light from some soul who might be
converted to the truth. I have no forbiddings to place on the work of
circulating our books. Let the light be placed on the candlestick, that it may
give light to all that are in the house."—9 Testimonies, pp. 7475.
The acid test of whether the 1888 and 1911 editions are as valuable as the 1884
edition is to be found in the principles stated in these editions. If an
uninspired writer wrote any of its chapters, we would find clear evidence of
this in the changed viewpoints, concepts, and principles.
Yet we find no such evidence. The editions all read alike. This is because they
were all written by the same hand.
Single-sentence chapter summaries: Here is a sample single-summary listing of
principles for each of the first four chapters of Great Controversy:
Chapter 1 . The Destruction of Jerusalem: Disaster came because they obeyed men
instead of God and His Word.
Chapter 2 . Persecution In the First Centuries: The one group received salvation
because they obeyed God and His Word.
Chapter 3. The Apostasy: The other class went into ever deeper apostasy because
they disobeyed God and His Word.
Chapter 4. The Waldenses: This people received divine protection and human
persecution because they obeyed God and His Word.
Try writing single-line summaries of the other chapters in the book. Ask your
friends to do it also; then read them aloud, compare, and discuss.
Basic principles In Chapter One: Here is a simple list of some underlying
principles in the first chapter, The Destruction of Jerusalem:
17:1b,18:1b When men do not return to God in repentance and obedience,
destruction is their final end.
18:1—19:0 An astounding sacrifice had been provided to save them through Christ.
19:1 Repeatedly, through inspired prophets, God had called and waited for a
proper response.
19:2-21:0 Finally, Christ personally came and they slew Him.
21:0-22:0 The apostasy of Israel brought upon them a host of problems.
22:1-23:0 Jerusalem is but a symbol of the greater calamities and destruction
that will ultimately come upon the world for having rejected Christ.
23: 1-25:1 Their very temple, the structural wonder of the world, had been their
greatest pride; yet, because of their apostasy, it would be torn down.
25:2-26:0 In Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, Christ presented a brief outline
of future apostasy and judgments.
26:1-27:2 Jerusalem, although apparently impregnable, would be destroyed because
of its apostasy.
27:328:0 The sentence of doom was mercifully delayed that they might be given
additional time to repent. During that final probationary time, the children
continued to share in the sins and guilt of their forefathers.
28:1-29:1 God withdrew His protection because of their sins and stubborn
resistance. Those very evil qualities brought on their destruction; yet, even
to the end, they blindly believed they were still serving God! 29:2—30:1 Warning
signs and messages were given to the people before their end.
30:2-31:0 The faithful in Israel heeded the warnings and escaped the final
destruction. 31:1-36:0 A description of the final crisis and destruction. 36:1
All this stands as a solemn warning to us today.
It is only God's protection that keeps us from satanic dominance. But, when the
limits of transgression are passed, men are given up to the control they want
that of Satan. Then the wicked cooperate with Satan in destroying themselves.
36:2-37:0 The entire wicked world will, because of ever deepening sin, soon pass
under the control of Satan—and this will bring on the final desolations. 37:1
But, through it all, God's faithful ones will be secure, protected by heavenly
angels.
37:2-38:0 Carefully consider these principles and warnings, for the end is
drawing near.
38:1 Unfortunately, as did the Jews, the world in these last days will ignore
the warnings, even down to the final destruction.
Chapter 1 is the introductory chapter to the entire book. It sets the tone for
all that follows. The entire book is one vast warning from history and
Scriptural principles, given to prepare men today for coming events.
Many other principles are delineated in this book. Search for them and write
them out. As you look, note whether you find even one false principle in any of
the editions —earlier or later. Not one will be found! The God of heaven has
protected this, His special book.
Basic subdivisions of the book: Great Controversy can be divided into several
subsections. They can be split in a variety of ways:
1 — Historical chapters — chapters 1-17 (pp. 17-316)
2 — Millerite chapters — chapters 18-22 (pp. 317-408)
3 — Doctrinal chapters — chapters 23-34, 37 (pp. 409-562, 593-602)
4 — Final-event chapters — chapters 36, 38-42 (pp. 582-592, 603-678)
Although chapter 37 is actually a doctrinal chapter, it was placed within the
closing-events chapters to emphasize its urgent importance. The message of that
chapter is (1) we must never consider the words of any man, organization, or
government to be more important than Scripture and obedience to it, and (2) the
final controversies and deceptions will be over exactly that point!
But there are other subdivisions which could be used.
Here is a more extended one (including some overlap):
1 — Introduction — chapter 1 (pp. 17-38)
2 — Lessons from pre-Reformation history — chapters 2-6 (pp. 39-119)
3 — Lessons from the Reformation — chapters 7-14 (pp. 120-264)
4 — Post-Reformation effects and apostasy — chapters 1517 (pp. 265-316)
5 — The Millerite Movement — chapters 18-22 (pp. 317-408)
6 — The Sanctuary Message — chapters 23-24, 28 (pp. 409-432, 479-491)
7 — Importance of the Law of God — chapters 25-29 (pp. 433-504)
8 — Satan and his methods of operation — chapters 29-34 (pp. 492-562)
9 — Truth and error about death — chapters 33-34 (pp. 531-562)
10 — Final events — chapters 35-42 (pp. 563-678)
Correlating Great Controversy to Daniel and Revelation:
Back in late 1979, the present writer typeset much of Great Controversy and
placed it into 11x17 tracts (our 16-tract Great Controversy Series).
As the task was concluding, one evening the thought came to mind to select only
the choicest areas and shorten it all to five tracts, dealing with the most
crucial points in the book. It was typeset, and is now available in three
formats: (1) The five-tract Final Crisis Series, (2) the back half of our small
paperback, Mark of the Beast, and (3) the back half of our Steps to Christ book,
Shelter in the Storm.
As the five-part tract was being completed, it seemed that the crucial chapters
of Revelation 12 to 14 ought to correspond to it in some way. Checking this out,
it was discovered that the two matched!
Of course, Great Controversy would correspond with part of this, since much of
it is represented in those basic materials. These crucial sections which begin
with the Origin of Evil chapter and focus on the Roman apostasy, Sabbath
message, importance of obedience to God's law, Revelation 13 and 14, state of
the dead, spiritism error, and final crisis dovetail nicely into the messages of
Revelation 12 to 14. Here it is:
Bringing a Planet into Rebellion: CRISIS OF THE AGES. A sweeping presentation of
the great controversy between Christ and Satan. The Groundwork for the Mark.
Revelation 12: 1-12 (Great Controversy, chapter 29).
Out of the Dark Centuries: THE FORMING OF THE BEAST. The gradual development of
the Beast of Revelation 13. The Making of the Mark. Revelation 12:13-17 and 13:
1-2 (Great Controversy, chapters 215).
Laying Plans to Destroy: PREPARING FOR THE MARK. The crisis we face today and
what it is leading us to. The Meaning of the Mark. Revelation 13:2-12 and
14:6-12 (Great Controversy, chapters 25-28).
Supernatural Power to Enslave: TALKING WITH DEVILS. The wonder-working power
that is gradually appearing. The Force behind the Mark. Revelation 13:13-15 and
16:12-14 (Great Controversy, chapters 30-34).
By Threat or by Violence: ENTERING THE FINAL CRISIS. Rolling back the curtain
on the end of time. The Giving of the Mark. Revelation 13:16-18 and 18:1-7
(Great Controversy, chapters 36-42).
It is a fascinating thought to consider that Great Controversy is actually a
commentary on the basic chapters of Daniel and Revelation! Most of the book is
concerned with Daniel 7 and Revelation 12 through 14 while part of Great
Controversy (not included in the above brief five part tract set) deals with
Daniel 8 and 9 (the sanctuary and Investigative Judgment chapters).
Recognizing this close correlation would help our people produce better
interpretations of Daniel and Revelation. In our time, some of the analytic
studies of those two books, done by our people show little correlation with the
principles and events in Great Controversy. Instead, too much effort is made to
squeeze the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation into a few short years at the
close of time.
We know that the purest truth is to be found in the Spirit of Prophecy
writings. Along with the Bible, they are the books most needed by this final
generation. But, among them, Great Controversy is the most important book which
she wrote. It should receive special attention when we select those books we
will circulate. In conclusion, let us read again three statements which we
quoted earlier:
"Great Controversy should be very widely circulated. It contains the story of
the past, the present, and the future. In its outline of the closing scenes of
this earth's history, it bears a powerful testimony in behalf of the truth. I am
more anxious to see a wide circulation for this book than for any others I have
written; for in the Great Controversy, the last message of warning to the world
is given more distinctly than in any of my other books."—Letter 281, 1905
(Colporteur Ministry, p. 127).
The full impact of that book will not be realized until later:
“The results of the circulation of this book (Great Controversy] are not to be
judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will
have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments
of God. But a much larger number of those who read it will not take their
position until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in it.
The fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others will
also come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord
in the closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of
God as the result of this agency."—Manuscript 31, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, pp.
128-129).
There are seven special reasons why Great Controversy was written:
"To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and error; to
reveal the wiles of Satan and the means by which he may be successfully
resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great problem of evil,
shedding such light on the origin and the final disposition of sin as to make
fully manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all His dealing with His
creatures; and to show the holy, unchanging nature of the law is the object of
the book. That through its influence souls may be delivered from the powers of
darkness, and become 'partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;' to
the praise of Him who loves us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest prayer
of the writer." —Great Controversy, p. xii (in current edition).
Clearly, there is work to be done. Soon the final crisis will be upon us.
"When the storm of God's wrath breaks upon the world, it will be a terrible revelation for souls to find that their house is being swept away because it is built upon the sand. Let the warning be given them before it is too late. We should now feel the responsibility of laboring with intense earnestness to impart to others the truths that God has given for this time. We cannot be too much in earnest."—6 Testimonies, p. 16.