Ellen Chat Conversation

The experience of Brother Gage being "aroused" is described as a reactive and confrontational stance taken in response to the ministry of others. When Brother Jones attempted to awaken the people of God to the importance of warning the world, Brother Gage was stirred to immediate opposition. Rather than seeking unity, he "harnessed for the battle" and publicly positioned himself against Brother Jones in the tabernacle. This impulsive reaction was not inspired by the Spirit of the Lord, even if there were minor disagreements regarding the timing of certain prophetic applications (15MR 298.4). This tendency toward being "painfully awakened" or aroused often stemmed from a focus on perceived injustice and a lack of missionary spirit among his associates. Brother Gage struggled with feelings of sacrifice, comparing his small wages and hard labor with the potential for larger worldly gains. His impulsive nature led him to be sorely tried by the lack of piety he observed in Battle Creek, causing him to fluctuate between wanting to leave his post and staying anchored by his confidence that God was still at the helm of the work (PH097 23.1). Despite these moments of being "aroused" for battle or by trial, there is a recurring concern regarding the depth of his spiritual commitment. He is described as having a superficial influence, often mingling with worldlings and exhibiting wit and mirth, only to later preach a straightforward discourse. This contradiction between his daily life and his public teaching made him a snare to the church, as he lacked the weight and burden of the work necessary for a sanctified life (PH155 5.1).

Furthermore, his personal choices and pursuit of pleasure led to significant physical consequences. By seeking his own gratification rather than standing faithfully at his post, he brought upon himself a long and tedious sickness. This affliction was the direct result of exposure during a pleasure trip, serving as a reminder that his own wisdom was folly and that true strength is found only in following the path of Christ from the manger to Calvary (T21a 33.1), (PH159 33.1).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the danger of public opposition between ministers?How does Ellen White define the difference between true missionary spirit and a spirit of self-seeking?What counsel did she give regarding the relationship between physical health and faithful service?

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