Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White expresses strong concern regarding the use of theatrical methods and performances in religious service. She indicates that "theatrical exhibitions" are not accepted by the Lord as service done for Him, nor do they bring Him glory (11MR 335.2). Instead of being a divine work, she characterizes such performances as being conducted under the service of a different leader (11MR 335.2). The use of theatrical devices to capture the attention of an audience is described as a distraction that causes the participants to lose their realization of Christ's actual presence (9MR 387.2).

When individuals focus heavily on outward appearances and elaborate preparations for these types of meetings, they fail to give Jesus the opportunity to work directly on the hearts of the people (9MR 387.2). This approach is criticized for mingling common, worldly elements with that which is sacred (9MR 387.2). Furthermore, the act of personating Christ is associated with the deceptive work of the enemy. In the context of the final deception of the world, it is noted that Satan himself will assume the role of an angel of light and attempt to personate Jesus Christ (LDE 162).

This highlights the danger of human or supernatural agencies attempting to mimic the physical presence or person of the Savior through performance or imitation. Rather than acting out the life of Christ in a play, the believer is called to be a "living representative" of Jesus to the world (12MR 320.1). The high honor given to human beings is not to perform as Him, but to act as "co-workers with Jesus Christ" in the practical work of saving souls (5T 573.3). This involves a sincere endeavor to reach moral and spiritual excellence through the power of His grace, rather than through theatrical displays (2TT 218.2).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the dangers of the theater and worldly amusements?How does she describe the difference between the sacred and the common in worship?What practical counsel did she give regarding how to properly represent Christ's character to others?

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