Ellen Chat Conversation

# Conversion and Re-Birth Ellen White taught that conversion is a profound transformation that goes far beyond mere intellectual assent or surface-level religious activity. She explained that "conversion is a work that most do not appreciate. It is not a small matter to transform an earthly, sin-loving mind and bring it to understand the unspeakable love of Christ" (2T 294.2). This new birth represents the beginning of the Christian life—a complete renewal of the heart and mind. The essence of this transformation involves receiving "a new life from above" (TR 21.1). Ellen White emphasized that the heart must be renewed by divine graceand that without this change, Jesus declared, one "cannot see the kingdom of God" (4SP 296.2). This is not merely behavioral modification but a fundamental change in one's very nature and desires. When genuine conversion occurs, the results are unmistakable. Ellen White described how the converted person experiences radical change: "He has a new mind, new affections, new interest, new will; his sorrows, and desires, and love are all new. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, which have heretofore been preferred before Christ, are now turned from, and Christ is the charm of his life, the crown of his rejoicing" (2T 294.2). What once attracted now repels; what once seemed dull now captivates. Ellen White also distinguished between the initial experience of conversion and the ongoing life that follows. She wrote that being born again, justified, converted—this is the beginningbut emphasized the importance of growing up into Christthrough sanctification (TR 7.4). Revival represents being born again, while reformation means "living a life of obedience through the power of the Holy Spirit" (TR 7.4). The process of conversion requires divine intervention through the Holy Spirit. Ellen White explained that "the Holy Spirit will strip them of their self-righteousness, pharisaism, and hardness of heart, and will give them a heart of flesh, made soft and tender by its indwelling presence" (SpTA10 8.1). This work transforms proud, self-sufficient individuals into humble seekers who approach God "as little children" (SpTA10 8.1). Ellen White made clear that this experience is not optional for church members. She boldly stated, "The time has come when this people are to be born again" (GCB April 3, 1901, par. 37). Even those long in the church who have forgotten that they were purged from their old sinsneed to experience genuine conversion (GCB April 3, 1901, par. 37). She called believers not to mere religious activity but to earnest prayer: "Go home and pray. Talk with God. Go home and plead with God to mold and fashion you after the divine similitude" (GCB April 3, 1901, par. 37). --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What specific role does the Holy Spirit play in the conversion process? • How can someone know if they have truly experienced the new birth? • What is the relationship between conversion and daily Christian living?

# A Quote for Church Elections While the provided documents don't contain a specific quote Ellen White wrote for reading before church elections, her counsel on faithfulness and spiritual discernment offers valuable guidance for this solemn occasion. Ellen White emphasized the sacred responsibility of those who bear leadership roles in God's work. She wrote that as faithful watchmen you should see the sword coming, and give the warning, that men and women may not pursue a course through ignorance that they would avoid if they knew the truth" (1888 505.2). This principle applies directly to the selection of church leaders—those chosen must be faithful watchmen who will guide God's people with wisdom and spiritual insight. She also stressed the importance of being spiritually prepared and active in God's work rather than passive. In her message to the General Conference, she urged: "Recently in the night season, my mind was impressed by the Holy Spirit with the thought that if the Lord is coming as soon as we believe He is, we ought to be even more active than we have been in years past in getting the truth before the people" (2SM 402). This reminds us that those elected to church office should be characterized by active engagement in advancing God's truth. Furthermore, Ellen White called for loyalty to God's message and avoiding contentious spirits. She warned that the minds of many have been engrossed with contentions, and they have rejected the light given through the Testimonies because it did not agree with their own opinions" (1888 505.2). Church elections should seek leaders who are humble, teachable, and united in advancing God's truth rather than their own opinions. For a church election, these principles remind us to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in selecting leaders who will faithfully watch over the flock, actively advance God's work, and maintain unity in truth. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What counsel did Ellen White give about the qualifications for church leadership? • How did Ellen White describe the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding church decisions? • What did she say about maintaining unity while making important church decisions?