What did Ellen White teach about health reform?
Ellen White taught that health reform is a vital part of spiritual preparation, stating that it is "one branch of the great work to fit a people for the coming of the Lord" (PH138 1). She emphasized that this reform is "as closely connected with the third angel's message as the hand is united to the body" (PH138 1). In her writings, Ellen White explained that there is a direct "relation between obedience to the laws of health and the attainment of character necessary to fit the members of the church for translation" (1T 7.3). She received progressive light on this topic through several visions, notably in 1848, 1854, and 1863 (3SM 271). The early visions specifically called attention to the "injurious effects of tobacco, tea, and coffee" (3SM 271), while later revelations expanded into broader principles of temperance and right living. She cautioned believers to maintain a balanced approach, urging them to "guard against extremes on the one hand and indifference on the other" (3T 4.2). Rather than following rigid or injudicious methods, she pointed to the Bible as a primary guide, specifically identifying James 1:16-27 as "God's health reform prescription" for the "diseases of the body and soul" (8MR 1.1). She believed that if humanity had remained obedient to the principles of the Ten Commandments, the "curse of disease now flooding the world would not be" (PH138 1). For practical application, Ellen White taught that health reform is not merely about rules, but about personal responsibility and divine strength. She encouraged individuals not to "place the responsibility of our duty upon others," but to seek God in faith, as He will impart "power for obedience" and "wisdom" to those who decide to do nothing that would displease Him (LYL 39). In summary, Ellen White viewed health reform as a spiritual necessity that links physical well-being with character development and the final message of warning to the world. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about the connection between diet and the third angel's message? • How did Ellen White define the "extremes" to be avoided in health reform? • What specific advice did she give regarding the use of tobacco, tea, and coffee? --- 📚 **thousands of passages found** containing these search terms — [Explore in Full-Text Search](/advanced-search?q=What+did+Ellen+White+teach+about+health+reform%3F)
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