The phrase "last generation theology" does not appear directly in Ellen White's published books. However, her writings do discuss the concept of the "last generation" and their role in the closing scenes of earth's history, which are often referenced in Adventist discussions about "last generation theology."
Here are some key points from Ellen White's writings related to the last generation:
1. **Special Truths for the Last Generation**:
- "The time for the unfolding of special truth in relation to the closing scenes of this earth's history is during the last generations that shall live upon the earth." (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 692.2)
This suggests that God reveals special truths to the final generation living before Christ's return.
2. **The Last Generation's Role**:
- "And in this last generation the parable of the mustard seed is to reach a signal and triumphant fulfillment. The little seed will become a tree. The last message of warning and mercy is to go to 'every nation and kindred and tongue'... And the earth shall be lightened with His glory." (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 79.3)
This indicates that the last generation will play a pivotal role in spreading the final message to the world.
3. **Perfection and Preparation**:
- "And not until the Christians of the last generation of men shall be brought to the enjoyment of [unity, knowledge, and perfection] by the last warning message, and all the means God may employ to prepare them to be translated to heaven without tasting death, will the ultimate design of the gifts be realized." (Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 13.3)
This is often cited in discussions about the character and spiritual maturity expected of the last generation.
4. **Accountability for Light**:
- "Special truths have been adapted to the conditions of the generations as they have existed. The present truth, which is a test to the people of this generation, was not a test to the people of generations far back." (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 693.1)
This emphasizes that each generation is accountable for the light and truth revealed to them.
**Summary:**
While Ellen White does not use the term "last generation theology," her writings do address the unique role, responsibility, and spiritual experience of the final generation before Christ's return. These concepts form the basis for what is often called "last generation theology" in Adventist discussions.
**References:**
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 692–693
- Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 79
- Ellen G. White, Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 13
If you’d like more specific references or a deeper exploration of these ideas, please let me know!