Ellen Chat Conversation

The Scriptures identify visions and dreams as primary channels through which the Holy Spirit operates to enlighten human understanding and guide our steps. This method of communication is a fulfillment of the divine promise that God would make Himself known to prophets through these specific mediums (PP 20.2). Such experiences are considered essential tools for receiving and communicating heavenly truth to mankind (CET 237.3). It is important to distinguish between different types of dreams, as not all night experiences are of divine origin. Many dreams simply arise from the mundane activities and common thoughts of daily life, having no connection to the Spirit of God (CCh 14.1).

Furthermore, there is a danger of false dreams and visions that are actually inspired by the spirit of Satan rather than the Lord (1T 569.2). When determining the genuineness of a dream, one must look for internal evidence and harmony. True dreams from the Lord are classified alongside visions and are considered fruits of the spirit of prophecy (2TT 274.2). These divine communications carry their own proof of authenticity when one considers the character of the person receiving them, the specific circumstances involved, and the distinct harmony and clarity with which they illustrate spiritual truths (T13 1.2).

In the experience of a prophet, these "visions of the night" often occur when the mind is at rest, yet they present matters with great clarity (CCh 13.6). While some visions in history were accompanied by physical phenomena to establish public confidence, the primary purpose of these messages is to substantiate faith and provide a reliable guide for the people of God in the last days (CCh 13).

You might also want to explore:What are the physical signs that accompanied Ellen White's public visions?How can we distinguish between a true prophet and a false prophet?What is the relationship between the spirit of prophecy and the Bible?

In the writings of Ellen White, the "violence" described in Matthew 11:12 is understood as a holy earnestness and intense spiritual energy required to secure the blessings of the kingdom of heaven. This experience is closely linked to the ministry of John the Baptist, who was the greatest of the prophets and was chosen to prepare the way for the Messiah by calling for a radical reformation of life (1SG 5). The transition from the Jewish dispensation to the gospel era required a vigorous effort to break away from tradition and lay hold of the new light being revealed. This spiritual violence does not refer to physical force but to a persistent, unwavering determination to overcome every obstacle in the path to salvation. It describes a state of mind where the soul is so awakened to its need that it will not be denied the grace of God. This type of "taking it by force" is seen in those who are willing to sacrifice everything, enduring any trial or hardship, to ensure they are part of Christ's kingdom. The necessity of this earnestness is contrasted with a lukewarm or half-hearted approach to religion. To enter the kingdom, one must exercise a faith that is active and demanding, much like the persistence shown by those who sought healing from Christ during His earthly ministry. This "violence" is essentially the exercise of a living faith that refuses to let go of the divine promise until the blessing is received.

Furthermore, this passage highlights that the kingdom of heaven is not gained by chance or through a passive hope. It requires a purposeful struggle against the inclinations of the natural heart and the temptations of the enemy. Those who are "violent" in this sense are those who prioritize the claims of God above all earthly considerations, demonstrating a zeal that matches the infinite value of the prize they seek.

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the spiritual zeal required for the last days?How does the work of John the Baptist serve as a model for the third angel's message?What practical counsel did she give regarding the "strait gate" and the effort to enter it?