Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White emphasizes that the primary purpose of Seventh-day Adventist institutions is to transform the world through a specific, divinely appointed message. Consequently, she counsels against entering into alliances or employment agreements with those who do not share this faith. She explains that individuals who do not know the truth lack the spiritual discernment necessary to understand the unique character of the work or to provide appropriate counsel regarding its direction (TM 463), (4MR 68.3), (SpTA02b 111.1). Regarding educational institutions specifically, she warns that employing instructors who are not believers in the "present truth" is unsafe. Such individuals may introduce theories and ideas that captivate the mind but ultimately distort a student's perspective, making worldly matters seem more important than eternal realities (PH081 31.3). She also cautions against the idea that teachers should focus exclusively on sciences while neglecting to weave religion into every aspect of education, noting that such a philosophy leads to a harvest of consequences that the church would not wish to reap (T33 115.1).

The spiritual atmosphere of an institution is considered paramount, and the presence of workers who have no love for the truth can be detrimental. White suggests that if employees do not develop a relish for the truth after a sufficient trial, they should be separated from the work because their irreligion and unbelief can negatively influence others, particularly young apprentices (3TT), (7T 202.2). Furthermore, she notes that teachers who prioritize their wages over a progressive religious experience are unfit for the solemn responsibilities they hold (PH081 32.4). Finally, she maintains that the high standards of these institutions must never be lowered to attract the patronage or approval of unbelievers. The goal is not financial gain or worldly eminence, but to bring people into a condition where they can correctly value redemption (T12 91.3).

When institutions fail to live up to their high profession, it provides an occasion for those outside the faith to look upon the work with scorn (PCO 103.4).

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