Here is a summary of Ellen White's views on these two topics, based on her writings:
1. Marriages Between People of Different Races:
Ellen White recognized the significant racial prejudices present during her time, especially in the American South. While she did not declare interracial marriage to be a sin or explicitly forbid it on biblical grounds, she advised caution. Her main concern was the "perplexing problem" and the social difficulties that such couples—and especially their children—would face. She wrote, "The breaking down of distinctions between the white and the colored races unfits the blacks to work for their own class, and exerts a wrong influence upon the whites" (
SWk 96.1). She also counseled, "So far as possible, everything that would stir up the race prejudice of the white people should be avoided. There is danger of closing the door so that our white laborers will not be able to work in some places in the South" (
9T 214.3). Her guidance was shaped by the realities of prejudice and the desire to avoid hindering gospel work.
2. Adventist Marrying a Non-Adventist:
Ellen White was very clear in her opposition to marriages between Adventists (or Christians) and non-Adventists (or unbelievers). She referenced the biblical principle, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers" (2 Corinthians 6:14, 17, 18;
PP 175.1), and warned that such unions often lead to spiritual decline: "The marriage of Christians with the ungodly is forbidden in the Bible... Spiritual declension commences the moment the vow is made at the altar; religious fervor is dampened, and one stronghold after another is broken down, until both stand side by side under the black banner of Satan" (
4T 505.2). She urged believers to consider whether a marriage would help or hinder their Christian walk and to seek God's approval above all.
In summary:
- Ellen White did not support interracial marriage in her time due to social prejudice and practical mission concerns, though she did not declare it a sin.
- She strongly counseled against Adventists marrying non-Adventists, citing both biblical instruction and the spiritual dangers involved.
If you would like direct quotations or more context from her writings, please let me know!
References:
- Ellen G. White, Selected Messages, Book 2 (SWk), p. 96.1
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9 (9T), p. 214.3
- Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets (PP), p. 175.1
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4 (4T), p. 505.2