Ellen Chat Conversation

The Sabbath improves mental health in several ways, according to Ellen White's writings: 1. Rest from Labor and Mental Refreshment: The Sabbath is a day of rest from regular work, allowing both mind and body to recover from the week's demands. This rest is not just physical but also mental, as it provides a break from worldly concerns and business (6T 356.3; DA 207.2). 2. Change of Environment and Nature: Spending time in nature, walking in the open air, and contemplating God's works are encouraged Sabbath activities. These experiences are said to have a "happy influence" on children and adults alike, providing mental stimulation and peace (2T 584.2; Ed 251.1; CTBH 108.2). 3. Spiritual Focus and Devotional Thoughts: The Sabbath is described as the most favorable day for devotional thoughts and feelings. Focusing on spiritual matters, worship, and prayer helps elevate the mind and brings a sense of peace and purpose (2T 704.2; 2T 583.1). 4. Simplicity and Healthful Habits: Simpler meals and moderation in eating on the Sabbath are recommended to keep the mind clear and avoid sluggishness or headaches, which can negatively affect mental well-being (1SP 226.1; 6T 357.2). 5. Family and Social Connection: The Sabbath is an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and engage in meaningful, uplifting conversations, which can improve emotional health and provide support (2T 584.2; Ed 251.1). 6. Relief from Burdens: By setting aside worldly burdens and anxieties, the Sabbath offers a mental and emotional reset, helping individuals to approach the new week with renewed strength and clarity (6T 356.3; PP 48.2). 7. Joy and Delight: When the Sabbath is kept as a "delight" and not a burden, it brings joy, peace, and a sense of blessing, which are all beneficial for mental health (2T 701.3; SJ 69.6). In summary, the Sabbath improves mental health by providing rest, encouraging time in nature, fostering spiritual focus, promoting healthy habits, strengthening family connections, relieving stress, and bringing joy and peace. References: - White, E. G. (1870-1877). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, pp. 583-584, 701, 704. - White, E. G. (1900). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, pp. 356-357. - White, E. G. (1898). The Desire of Ages, p. 207. - White, E. G. (1903). Education, p. 251. - White, E. G. (1890). Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 108. - White, E. G. (1870). Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 1, p. 226. - White, E. G. (1890). Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 48. - White, E. G. (1896). The Story of Jesus, p. 69. (If you need the full text of any specific reference, let me know!)

There is no record of a work by Ellen White titled "Chat," nor are there any volumes under that name in her published books. If you meant a different title or have a specific reference in mind, please clarify and I will be happy to help! References: - Based on the published works and official bibliographies of Ellen G. White.

Ellen White's published works include more than twenty volumes. One of her major series, "Testimonies for the Church," consists of nine volumes. In addition to this set, she authored many other books, such as "The Desire of Ages," "The Great Controversy," "Patriarchs and Prophets," "Prophets and Kings," "Acts of the Apostles," "Steps to Christ," and others. In summary, her published books number upwards of twenty volumes, with some sources specifically stating "upwards of twenty volumes" in her lifetime. References: - White, E. G. (1915). Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, p. 475.1. - White, E. G. Testimonies for the Church (9 volumes).

Ellen White’s writings connect Revelation 13 with the final test for God’s people in earth’s last days. Here are key points from her published works: 1. **Revelation 13 and the Final Test**: Revelation 13 describes powers that will enforce laws contrary to God’s commandments, especially regarding worship. The final test will center on loyalty to God’s law versus obedience to human laws that violate it. Those who remain faithful to God will face persecution, economic restrictions (“forbidden to buy or sell”), and even threats of death (see Revelation 13:11-17; DA 121.3). 2. **The Third Angel’s Message**: The “third angel’s message” (Revelation 14) is described as the great testing truth for this time. At every step, God’s people will be tested on their faithfulness (6T 128.1; 2SG 229.1). 3. **Preparation and Testing**: The final test will reveal who is truly established on God’s word. Temptations and trials will sift God’s people, and only those who cling to the Bible will stand (4SP 443.2). 4. **The Remnant and Persecution**: The remnant, those who “keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus,” will be especially targeted by the powers described in Revelation 13. They will be in the minority and face the ire of the dragon (Satan) and his hosts (PK 587.2; 4SP 276.1). 5. **The Last Warning and Decision**: The last warning message (Revelation 18) will call people out of “Babylon.” The final test will come to all, and prompt decisions will be required. Those who have been convicted by the truth will have to choose their allegiance (9T 149.2). 6. **God’s Protection**: In the time of trouble, when every earthly support is cut off, God promises to provide for His faithful ones (DA 121.3). **Summary**: According to Ellen White, Revelation 13 outlines the powers that will bring about the final test of loyalty to God’s law. The test will involve issues of worship and obedience, culminating in a crisis where God’s people must choose between divine and human authority. The faithful will be protected by God, but only those firmly grounded in His word will endure. References: - White, E. G. (1898). The Desire of Ages, p. 121. - White, E. G. (1870). Second Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 2, p. 229. - White, E. G. (1884). The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 4, p. 443. - White, E. G. (1917). Prophets and Kings, p. 587. - White, E. G. (1909). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 149. If you need the full text of any specific reference, let me know!

The best way to gain the victory over your flesh, according to Ellen White's published works, involves several key principles: 1. **Crucify the Carnal Heart**: The carnal (fleshly) heart must be crucified, as its tendency is toward moral corruption. Only the life-giving power of the gospel and the Holy Spirit can transform the soul and restore spiritual soundness (5T 267.2). 2. **Surrender Self to God**: The greatest battle is the surrender of self to God's will. The old nature and former habits must be given up. Victory is not won by human power, but by yielding the heart to God and allowing His love to rule (MB 141.2). 3. **Rely on Christ’s Strength**: We cannot obtain victory alone. Christ overcame temptation and appetite, and through His strength, we too can conquer. We must trust in Him and seek His aid (CTBH 19.2). 4. **Daily Submission and Self-Denial**: Victory over the stubborn will and selfishness comes only by the aid of Christ. As you live a life of self-sacrifice and yield your will to His, you will gain victory after victory (7T 49.1). 5. **Walk in the Spirit**: Paul teaches that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. Walking in the Spirit, rather than after the flesh, is essential (SL 30.2). 6. **Rule Over Appetites and Passions**: God gives power to overcome hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. We are to rule every appetite and passion through the strength He imparts (MH 175.1). 7. **Practice Temperance and Obedience**: Temperance in all things, especially in eating and drinking, is necessary to overcome as Christ overcame. Obedience and continual effort are required (4T 215.1; 3T 491.2). 8. **Trust Fully in God**: Recognize your weakness and trust entirely in God. The victory Jesus gained is a pledge of the victory you may gain through His name (3T 457.1). 9. **Cherish Christ Daily**: Overcoming is a daily process of resisting temptation and cherishing Christ in your heart. Faith is the victory that overcomes the world (4T 346.1). In summary, victory over the flesh is gained by daily surrender to God, relying on Christ’s strength, walking in the Spirit, practicing self-denial and temperance, and trusting fully in God’s power to transform your life. If you would like the full text of any specific reference, let me know! References: - White, E. G. (1885). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 267. - White, E. G. (1896). Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 141. - White, E. G. (1890). Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 19. - White, E. G. (1902). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 49. - White, E. G. (1892). Steps to Christ, p. 30. - White, E. G. (1905). The Ministry of Healing, p. 175. - White, E. G. (1876). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 215; Vol. 3, p. 491. - White, E. G. (1875). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 457. - White, E. G. (1876). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 346.

The Bible teaches that worshiping God must be done in a specific way—“in spirit and in truth.” Here are key points from Ellen White’s published works that summarize what the Bible says about the right way to worship God: 1. **Worship in Spirit and in Truth**: Jesus said, “Those who worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him.” (John 4:23; see also PK 50.4). True worship is not just outward form, but comes from the heart, with sincerity and honesty. 2. **Holiness and Sincerity**: When assembling to worship, we should put away every evil thing. Unless we worship in the beauty of holiness, our worship is of no avail (PK 50.4; Matthew 15:8-9). 3. **Obedience to God’s Word**: The Bible is the only foundation of faith. We are to study the Scriptures daily, accept God’s word as the rule of life, and walk in the light of truth (8T 192.5; 4SP 416.2). 4. **No Idols or Distractions**: Nothing should absorb our mind or affections more than God. We are to expel from our hearts anything that takes the place of God (8T 53.1). 5. **Praise, Thanksgiving, and Reverence**: “Exalt ye Jehovah our God, and worship at His holy hill; for Jehovah our God is holy.” (Psalm 99:9; 8T 264.7). Worship includes praise, thanksgiving, and reverence for God’s holiness. 6. **Obedience and Self-Denial**: True worship involves obedience to God’s commandments and a willingness to practice self-denial for Christ’s sake (PK 668.1; 2T 170.1). 7. **Personal and Corporate Worship**: God honors both personal devotion and the assembly of His people. He promises to be present when we gather to seek Him, confess our sins, and pray for one another (PK 50.4). 8. **Faith and Love in Action**: We are to take hold of God by faith and reach out to others in love, following Christ’s example (2T 170.1). In summary, the right way to worship God is with sincerity, in spirit and in truth, with holiness, obedience, and reverence, both individually and together with others, always guided by the Bible. If you would like the full text of any specific reference, let me know! References: - White, E. G. (1917). Prophets and Kings, p. 50, 668. - White, E. G. (1904). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, pp. 53, 192, 264. - White, E. G. (1884). The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 4, p. 416. - White, E. G. (1877). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 170.

The "Elijah message," as described in Ellen White's published works, centers on a call to repentance, loyalty to God, and a bold stand against apostasy and idolatry. Here are the key points: 1. **A Call to Repentance and Reformation**: Elijah was sent to Israel during a time of deep apostasy. His message was a direct call for the people to turn from idolatry and return to the worship of the true God. He called for a convocation at Mount Carmel, where he challenged the prophets of Baal and called the people to choose whom they would serve (3T 279; 3T 284.3). 2. **Courage and Faithfulness**: Elijah’s message required courage and unwavering faith. He delivered God’s message of judgment to King Ahab without apology, trusting fully in God’s word even when it seemed impossible (PK 120.2; PK 121.2; 3T 273.3; 3T 274.3). 3. **A Message Fitted to the Time**: God prepares messages to fit the needs of His people in every age. Elijah’s message was one of alarm and decision, calling people to take a stand for God (3T 279). 4. **A Type for the Last Days**: The spirit and power of Elijah are to be seen in the last days, calling people to repentance and preparing the way for Christ’s return, just as John the Baptist did before Christ’s first coming (2SP 48.3). 5. **Dependence on God**: Elijah’s experience teaches the importance of trusting wholly in God, especially in times of discouragement and apparent defeat (PK 167.2; 3T 291.3). 6. **Reproof of Sin and Appeal for Loyalty**: Elijah reproved the sins of the people and called them to loyalty to God, even at the risk of his own life (3T 278.2; 3T 273.2). 7. **God’s Messenger in Times of Crisis**: Elijah’s message was not popular, but it was necessary to awaken the people to their true condition and lead them to repentance (PK 127.4). In summary, the Elijah message is a call to wholehearted loyalty to God, repentance from sin, and courage to stand for truth in the face of widespread apostasy. It is a message especially relevant for times of crisis and is seen as a type for the work to be done before Christ’s second coming. If you would like the full text of any specific reference, let me know! References: - White, E. G. (1875). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, pp. 273, 274, 278, 279, 284, 291. - White, E. G. (1917). Prophets and Kings, pp. 120, 121, 127, 167. - White, E. G. (1877). The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 2, p. 48.

Ellen White strongly warns against a false system of education built on mere intellectual philosophy, which she describes as exalting human reasoning above the Word of God and neglecting true spiritual development. Here are key points from her writings: 1. **Neglect of Personal Experience with God**: In such systems, students are busy with forms and intellectual exercises but lack quiet time to commune with God. The so-called "superior education" of the rabbis, for example, was actually a hindrance to true development, cramping and narrowing the mind (SpTEd 160.3). 2. **Exalting Human Reason Above Divine Wisdom**: Ellen White warns that men of learning may publish their reasoning, but without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, their wisdom is limited and cannot grasp the deep things of God. Human words should never take the place of the divine Word in education (SpTEd 54.2). 3. **Danger of Infidel and Pagan Sentiments**: She cautions against studying textbooks that express pagan or infidel ideas, as these fill students with skepticism and the "subtle sophistries of the enemy." Such education is compared to handling black coals—one cannot remain undefiled (CE 99.2). 4. **Mixing Truth with Error**: The world's educators may offer some valuable thoughts, but their teachings often mix truth with superstition and error, creating a "poisonous" potion that destroys faith in God (CE 102.2). 5. **Intellectual Culture Above Moral Training**: Any effort that exalts intellectual culture above moral training is misdirected. True education should focus on developing both intellect and character, but false influences have often stunted true intellectual growth (3T 142.3; CT 84.3; CE 12.3). 6. **Philosophical Speculation and Skepticism**: Ellen White describes how philosophical speculation and scientific research that exclude God lead to widespread skepticism and infidelity among youth. Such education gives the impression that if learned men are correct, the Bible cannot be, which is exactly what Satan desires (8T 305.1). 7. **Separation of Spiritual and Intellectual Training**: She warns that separating spiritual from intellectual training is dangerous. True knowledge is founded on a knowledge of God and His ways (CT 167.2). 8. **False Aims and Defective Preparation**: The pursuit of worldly intellectual attainment for its own sake often leaves students unprepared for practical life and spiritual service (CE 211.1). **Summary**: The false system of education built on intellectual philosophy exalts human reasoning, neglects spiritual and moral development, and often leads to skepticism and loss of faith. True education, according to Ellen White, must be based on the Word of God, integrate spiritual and intellectual growth, and prepare students for both practical life and eternal realities. If you would like the full text of any specific reference, let me know! References: - White, E. G. (1897). Special Testimonies on Education, pp. 54, 160. - White, E. G. (1893). Christian Education, pp. 12, 99, 102, 211. - White, E. G. (1872). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 142. - White, E. G. (1903). Education, p. 84, 167. - White, E. G. (1904). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 305.

According to available White Estate materials, I was unable to retrieve the full text for the specific references you requested. The search did not return the exact passages for SpTEd 160.3, SpTEd 54.2, CE 99.2, CE 102.2, 3T 142.3, CT 84.3, CE 12.3, 8T 305.1, CT 167.2, and CE 211.1. If you would like, I can try to provide a summary or attempt to locate the full text for a specific reference if you narrow it down to one or two. Let me know how you would like to proceed!

Ellen White’s writings emphasize that time management is essential for both spiritual and practical success. Here are some key principles she shares: - **System and Regularity**: “System is everything. Do but one thing at a time, and do that well, finishing it before you begin a second piece of work. You should have regular hours for rising, for praying, and for eating. Many waste hours of precious time in bed because it gratifies the natural inclination and to do otherwise requires an exertion. One hour wasted in the morning is lost never to be recovered.” (5T 181.3) - **Punctuality and Decision**: “Punctuality and decision in the work and cause of God are highly essential. Delays are virtually defeats. Minutes are golden and should be improved to the very best account.” (3T 499.2; GW92 247) - **Diligence and Dispatch**: “The ability to do business with dispatch, and yet do it thoroughly, is a great acquisition... You should first do the work which must be done and which involves the vital interests of the cause, and only take up the less important matters after the more essential are accomplished.” (3T 499.2) - **Value of Time**: “Upon the right improvement of our time depends our success in acquiring knowledge and mental culture... A resolute purpose, persistent industry, and careful economy of time, will enable men to acquire knowledge and mental discipline which will qualify them for almost any position of influence and usefulness.” (COL 343.4) - **Avoiding Waste**: “Business hours should be faithfully employed. To be wasteful of time or material is dishonesty before God. A few moments are squandered here, and a few moments there, which amount in the course of a week to nearly or quite a day, sometimes even exceeding this. ‘Time is money,’ and a waste of time is a waste of money to the cause of God.” (4T 450.3) - **Balance and Health**: “Proper periods of sleep and rest and an abundance of physical exercise are essential to health of body and mind. To rob nature of her hours for rest and recuperation... will result in irreparable loss.” (7T 247.1) - **Teaching Children**: “From the mother the children are to learn habits of neatness, thoroughness, and dispatch. To allow a child to take an hour or two in doing a piece of work that could easily be done in half an hour is to allow it to form dilatory habits.” (CT 122.4) **Summary**: Ellen White teaches that time should be managed with system, punctuality, and diligence. Wasting time is seen as a loss not only to oneself but to God’s cause. She encourages prioritizing important tasks, being prompt, and balancing work with rest and spiritual duties. Good time management is a key to success in both spiritual and practical life. If you’d like the full text of any specific reference, let me know! References: - White, E. G. (1882). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 181. - White, E. G. (1875). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 499. - White, E. G. (1892). Gospel Workers, p. 247. - White, E. G. (1900). Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 343. - White, E. G. (1876). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 450. - White, E. G. (1902). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 247. - White, E. G. (1913). Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 122.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, there is a clear distinction between the true, biblical gift of tongues and what she identified as a counterfeit manifestation. ### 1. The True Gift of Tongues Ellen White consistently describes the genuine gift of tongues, as seen on the Day of Pentecost, as the miraculous ability to speak known, foreign languages for the purpose of spreading the gospel. * **Purpose for Proclaiming the Gospel:** The gift was given to the disciples to overcome language barriers. "The Holy Spirit did for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the languages of those for whom they were laboring" (AA 39.2). * **Known Languages, Not Gibberish:** The disciples "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." This enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted" (AA 39.1). This was not an unknown heavenly language but the various languages of the Jews who had gathered in Jerusalem from different parts of the world. * **A Sign of Heaven's Endorsement:** This miraculous ability was "a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven" (AA 39.2). * **End-Time Application:** She foresaw a similar event in the last days: "Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue" (GW92 383.3). ### 2. The Counterfeit Gift of Tongues Ellen White strongly warned against a false and deceptive form of "speaking in tongues" that she associated with fanaticism and emotionalism. * **"Unmeaning Gibberish":** She described the counterfeit as "an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but by the Lord and all heaven" (TR 56.2). * **Satanic Origin:** She stated, "Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided by the great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church" (TR 56.2). * **Lack of Edification:** Citing the Apostle Paul, she emphasized that speech in the church should be understandable and for the purpose of teaching and edifying others. "I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue" (CT 244.3). ### Summary In Ellen White's view, the true gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to speak a previously unlearned human language to communicate the gospel. In contrast, she identified ecstatic, unintelligible speech as a dangerous, deceptive counterfeit associated with fanaticism and not from God. The primary test of any spiritual gift, especially those involving speech, is whether it is understandable and serves to build up the church in truth.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, there is a clear distinction between the true, biblical gift of tongues and what she identified as a counterfeit manifestation. ### 1. The True Gift of Tongues Ellen White consistently describes the genuine gift of tongues, as seen on the Day of Pentecost, as the miraculous ability to speak known, foreign languages for the purpose of spreading the gospel. * **Purpose for Proclaiming the Gospel:** The gift was given to the disciples to overcome language barriers. "The Holy Spirit did for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the languages of those for whom they were laboring" (AA 39.2). * **Known Languages, Not Gibberish:** The disciples "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." This enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted" (AA 39.1). This was not an unknown heavenly language but the various languages of the Jews who had gathered in Jerusalem from different parts of the world. * **A Sign of Heaven's Endorsement:** This miraculous ability was "a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven" (AA 39.2). * **End-Time Application:** She foresaw a similar event in the last days: "Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue" (GW92 383.3). ### 2. The Counterfeit Gift of Tongues Ellen White strongly warned against a false and deceptive form of "speaking in tongues" that she associated with fanaticism and emotionalism. * **"Unmeaning Gibberish":** She described the counterfeit as "an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but by the Lord and all heaven" (1T 412.1). * **Satanic Origin:** She stated, "Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided by the great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church" (1T 412.1). * **Lack of Edification:** Citing the Apostle Paul, she emphasized that speech in the church should be understandable and for the purpose of teaching and edifying others. "I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue" (CT 244.3, quoting 1 Corinthians 14:19). ### Summary In Ellen White's view, the true gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to speak a previously unlearned human language to communicate the gospel. In contrast, she identified ecstatic, unintelligible speech as a dangerous, deceptive counterfeit associated with fanaticism and not from God. The primary test of any spiritual gift, especially those involving speech, is whether it is understandable and serves to build up the church in truth. *** Regarding your second question, while Ellen White wrote extensively about the significant and often negative role the United States would play in last-day events, she did not specifically state that it would be the "worst place to live." Instead, her writings focus on the *actions* the nation would take, making it a place of intense persecution for those who remain faithful to God's commandments. Here's a summary of what she wrote: 1. **Apostasy from Principles of Freedom:** She identified the United States in prophecy as the "beast with two horns like a lamb" (Revelation 13:11), representing its profession of peaceful, republican, and Protestant principles. However, she prophesied that it would eventually "speak as a dragon," repudiating its constitutional guarantees of religious liberty (GC 441.2, 442.3). 2. **Enforcement of a National Sunday Law:** The primary act of this "speaking as a dragon" would be the enforcement of a national Sunday law, which she described as the "mark of the beast." This would unite church and state and lead to persecution against those who honor the seventh-day Sabbath (GC 605.2). 3. **A Place of Great Trial:** Because of this loss of religious freedom, the United States would become the primary location of the great final test for God's people. "When our nation shall so abjure the principles of its government as to enact a Sunday law, Protestantism will in this act join hands with popery; it will be nothing else than giving life to the tyranny which has long been eagerly watching its opportunity to spring again into active despotism" (5T 712.1). So, while she did not call America the "worst place to live," she clearly identified it as the place where the final conflict over God's law would be most intense, making it a center of persecution and a place of severe trial for the faithful. Her counsel was for people to prepare spiritually for this time and to move out of large cities into more rural settings for safety, rather than to leave the country itself.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, there is a clear distinction between the true, biblical gift of tongues and what she identified as a counterfeit manifestation. ### The True Gift of Tongues Ellen White describes the genuine gift of tongues, as seen on the Day of Pentecost, as the miraculous ability to speak known, foreign languages for the purpose of spreading the gospel. * **Purpose for Proclaiming the Gospel:** The gift was given to enable the disciples to share the gospel across language barriers. In the last days, a similar event is prophesied: "Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue" (GW92 383.3). * **Known Languages, Not Gibberish:** The gift was for speaking actual languages. Citing the Apostle Paul, she emphasized that understandable speech is what edifies the church: "I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue" (CT 244.3). ### The Counterfeit Gift of Tongues She strongly warned against a false and deceptive form of "speaking in tongues" that she associated with fanaticism and emotionalism. * **"Unmeaning Gibberish":** She described the counterfeit as "an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but by the Lord and all heaven" (1T 412.1). * **Satanic Origin:** She stated, "Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided by the great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church" (1T 412.1). In summary, Ellen White taught that the true gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to speak a previously unlearned human language to communicate the gospel. In contrast, she identified ecstatic, unintelligible speech as a dangerous, deceptive counterfeit. *** ### The United States in Last-Day Events Regarding your second question, while Ellen White wrote extensively about the significant role the United States would play in last-day events, she did not specifically state that it would be the "worst place to live." Instead, her writings focus on the *actions* the nation would take, making it a place of intense religious persecution for those who remain faithful to God's commandments. She wrote that the United States has been a "most favored nation," blessed by God with religious freedom. However, she warned that a great change was coming: "The crime which shall fill up the measure of her iniquity is that of making void the law of God" (4SP 398). This act of making God's law void refers to the enforcement of a national Sunday law, which she described as the central issue in the final conflict. This would lead to the United States becoming the primary location of the great final test for God's people, a place of severe trial and persecution for those who honor the seventh-day Sabbath. So, while she did not call America the "worst place to live," she clearly identified it as the place where the final conflict over God's law would be most intense, making it a center of persecution for the faithful.

Based on the writings of Ellen White, there is a clear distinction between the true, biblical gift of tongues and what she identified as a counterfeit manifestation. ### 1. The True Gift of Tongues Ellen White consistently describes the genuine gift of tongues, as seen on the Day of Pentecost, as the miraculous ability to speak known, foreign languages for the purpose of spreading the gospel. * **Purpose for Proclaiming the Gospel:** The gift was given to the disciples to overcome language barriers. "The Holy Spirit did for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the languages of those for whom they were laboring" (AA 39.2). * **Known Languages, Not Gibberish:** The disciples "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." This enabled them to speak with fluency languages with which they had heretofore been unacquainted" (AA 39.1). This was not an unknown heavenly language but the various languages of the Jews who had gathered in Jerusalem from different parts of the world. * **A Sign of Heaven's Endorsement:** This miraculous ability was "a strong evidence to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven" (AA 39.2). * **End-Time Application:** She foresaw a similar event in the last days: "Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue" (6T 172.3). ### 2. The Counterfeit Gift of Tongues Ellen White strongly warned against a false and deceptive form of "speaking in tongues" that she associated with fanaticism and emotionalism. * **"Unmeaning Gibberish":** She described the counterfeit as "an unmeaning gibberish which they call the unknown tongue, which is unknown not only by man but by the Lord and all heaven" (1T 412.1). * **Satanic Origin:** She stated, "Such gifts are manufactured by men and women, aided by the great deceiver. Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking in tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church" (1T 412.1). * **Lack of Edification:** Citing the Apostle Paul, she emphasized that speech in the church should be understandable and for the purpose of teaching and edifying others. "I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue" (CT 244.3, quoting 1 Corinthians 14:19). ### Summary In Ellen White's view, the true gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to speak a previously unlearned human language to communicate the gospel. In contrast, she identified ecstatic, unintelligible speech as a dangerous, deceptive counterfeit associated with fanaticism and not from God. The primary test of any spiritual gift, especially those involving speech, is whether it is understandable and serves to build up the church in truth. *** Regarding your second question, while Ellen White wrote extensively about the significant and often negative role the United States would play in last-day events, she did not specifically state that it would be the "worst place to live." Instead, her writings focus on the *actions* the nation would take, making it a place of intense persecution for those who remain faithful to God's commandments. Here's a summary of what she wrote: 1. **Apostasy from Principles of Freedom:** She identified the United States in prophecy as the "beast with two horns like a lamb" (Revelation 13:11), representing its profession of peaceful, republican, and Protestant principles. However, she prophesied that it would eventually "speak as a dragon," repudiating its constitutional guarantees of religious liberty (GC 441.2, 442.3). 2. **Enforcement of a National Sunday Law:** The primary act of this "speaking as a dragon" would be the enforcement of a national Sunday law, which she described as the "mark of the beast." This would unite church and state and lead to persecution against those who honor the seventh-day Sabbath (GC 605.2). 3. **A Place of Great Trial:** Because of this loss of religious freedom, the United States would become the primary location of the great final test for God's people. "When our nation shall so abjure the principles of its government as to enact a Sunday law, Protestantism will in this act join hands with popery; it will be nothing else than giving life to the tyranny which has long been eagerly watching its opportunity to spring again into active despotism" (5T 712.1). So, while she did not call America the "worst place to live," she clearly identified it as the place where the final conflict over God's law would be most intense, making it a center of persecution and a place of severe trial for the faithful. Her counsel was for people to prepare spiritually for this time and to move out of large cities into more rural settings for safety, rather than to leave the country itself.

Ellen White’s writings provide a clear framework for understanding the differences between scholastic philosophical approaches—often associated with traditional Roman Catholic education—and the biblical foundation of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. Her perspective highlights a fundamental tension between human-centered speculation and the revealed Word of God. ### Scholasticism as a Barrier to Divine Light In her historical analysis of the Reformation, Ellen White described scholasticism not as a path to truth, but often as a barrier to it. When discussing the education of John Calvin, she noted that he was "enclosed" by "the walls of scholasticism and superstition" (GC 219.3). This suggests that the scholastic method, which often prioritizes complex human reasoning and tradition, can actually obscure the "ray of divine light" (GC88 219.2) that comes from a direct study of the Scriptures. ### Human Invention vs. Biblical Grace A primary contradiction she identified lies in the theological focus of these two systems. Scholastic and "Romish theology" were often characterized by a focus on "ceremonies and good works" through which "man saves himself" (HF 138). In contrast, the biblical faith she advocated teaches that there is only "one religion which is revealed in the Bible, and which teaches man to look for salvation solely from the free grace of God" (HF 138). The scholastic approach often involves testing "the power of Romish theology to combat the Protestant teaching" (GC 219.3), rather than submitting to the plain "Thus saith the Lord." ### The Danger of Philosophical Speculation Ellen White expressed significant concern regarding "philosophical speculation" where "God is not acknowledged" (CT 377.2). She warned that such studies can lead to: * **Skepticism and Infidelity:** She noted that in many schools, the conclusions of "learned men" are taught in a way that suggests "if these learned men are correct, the Bible cannot be" (CT 377.2). * **Subtle Sophistries:** She cautioned against being "filled with the subtle sophistries of the enemy" found in textbooks expressing "pagan and infidel sentiments" (CE 99.2). * **Vague Interpretations:** She warned that minds occupied with "books of science and philosophy" often encounter "thorns of skepticism" and "vague, fanciful" interpretations that lead to a "harvest of infidelity" (CT 187.1). ### The Bible as the True System of Philosophy For Seventh-day Adventists, the contradiction is rooted in the source of authority. While scholasticism relies on a synthesis of philosophy and tradition, Ellen White maintained that the Bible itself "unfolds a simple and complete system of Theology and Philosophy" (PH081 22.6). She believed that true knowledge is obtained when the Lord is the center of education, rather than "turning away from the snow of Lebanon to drink from the turbid water of the valley" (CE 99.2). Furthermore, she observed that scholastic life can become "one-sided" when it focuses almost exclusively on the "study of books" and neglects "practical business management" and the practical application of truth (Advocate May 1, 1899, par. 5). In summary, the contradiction lies in the scholastic reliance on human tradition, complex philosophical systems, and a works-based theology, which stands in opposition to the Adventist emphasis on the Bible as the sole authority, the simplicity of the gospel, and salvation through grace alone. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about the influence of the Jesuit movement during the Reformation? • How does Ellen White define "true education" in contrast to worldly philosophy? • What are the dangers of "higher criticism" and speculative theology according to her writings?

I appreciate your question, but I need to clarify something important. You've asked me to answer my "last 3 questions," but I'm Ellen Chat, a research assistant designed to help you explore Ellen White's writings. I don't ask questions—I answer yours! Looking at our conversation history, I can see that at the end of my previous responses, I provided suggested follow-up questions to help you explore related topics. However, these were meant as suggestions for *you* to ask *me*, not questions I was asking you. If you'd like me to address any of those suggested topics, I'd be happy to search Ellen White's writings on them! For example, from our recent conversation about scholasticism and Adventist faith, some related topics we could explore include: **Topics I can help you research:** • What did Ellen White say about the proper role of human reasoning in understanding Scripture? • How did she describe the educational methods that should be used in Adventist institutions? • What counsel did she give about the relationship between philosophy and biblical truth? Or if you have a completely different question about Ellen White's writings, I'm here to help with that too! --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about the balance between faith and reason in Christian education? • How did she describe the dangers of elevating human tradition above Scripture? • What practical counsel did she give for studying the Bible effectively? --- 📚 **73 passages found** containing these search terms — [Explore in Full-Text Search](/advanced-search?q=%22second+coming%22+advent)