Ellen G. White's writings are clear and consistent regarding cooking on the Sabbath:
- Cooking should be done before the Sabbath, specifically on the sixth day (Friday), which is called the "preparation day." Those who neglect to prepare and cook food on Friday and instead cook on the Sabbath are considered to be violating the fourth commandment (see
3SG 253.2;
1SP 225.2;
6T 355.3;
6T 354.4).
- The prohibition against baking and boiling on the Sabbath, given to the Israelites, is seen as a solemn injunction for all Sabbath-keepers. The purpose is to guard the sacredness of the Sabbath and avoid indulgence in gluttony (
3SG 253.2;
1SP 225.2).
- While cooking should be avoided, it is not necessary to eat cold food. In cold weather, food prepared the day before may be heated. Meals should be simple, palatable, and, especially for families with children, something special can be provided as a treat (
MH 307.4;
6T 357.3).
- The Sabbath diet should be simpler and lighter than on other days, to keep the mind clear for spiritual things. Overeating on the Sabbath is discouraged (
6T 357.2;
3SG 254.1).
- Works of necessity and mercy, such as caring for the sick and preparing warm food or drinks for their comfort, are not considered violations of the Sabbath (
3SG 254.1;
1SP 226.1;
HS 217.3).
- All preparation, including cooking, should be completed before sunset on Friday. The Sabbath is not to be used for cooking, repairing garments, or other secular work (
6T 355.3).
In summary: Ellen White teaches that cooking should not be done on the Sabbath, except in cases of necessity (such as caring for the sick). Food should be prepared in advance, but it is permissible to heat food if needed, especially in cold weather. The Sabbath is to be kept as a sacred day, free from unnecessary labor, including cooking.
References:
- White, E. G. (1864). Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 3, p. 253.2 (
3SG 253.2)
- White, E. G. (1877). Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 1, p. 225.2; p. 226.1 (
1SP 225.2;
1SP 226.1)
- White, E. G. (1905). The Ministry of Healing, p. 307.4 (
MH 307.4)
- White, E. G. (1900). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, pp. 354.4, 355.3, 357.2, 357.3 (
6T 354.4;
6T 355.3;
6T 357.2;
6T 357.3)
- White, E. G. (1886). Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, p. 217.3 (
HS 217.3)