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[Artiste]

In the July, 2008 edition of 3ABN World, an article by Hal Steenson, Mollie Steenson's husband, states that the current series of articles on miracles and Danny Shelton's dream of ministry will indeed demonstrate that 3ABN is God's dream for His remnant church.

Mollie Steenson is the General Manager of 3ABN and the Executive Editor of 3ABN World.

In this article, entitled "Miraculous Healing--Stories from 3ABN's early days" , Goldie Shelton, mother of Danny Shelton, is said to have been completely and miraculously cured of polio, the worst kind of polio according to the doctor, after prayer by an Adventist pastor.

Is it true that 3ABN is God's dream for His remnant church?

[Ozzie]

I would be reluctant to make those claims. 

You know, there's something about beating one's own drums, that makes me wary. 

[Emma]

The world field is big......I am sure God has many dreams for His church.   If we can each do our part in our patch we can be part of the fulfilment of the task.

[Kitty]

We are told by Ellen White that we will not be able to trust in miracles at the end time.  As we near the end there will be more FALSE dreams and visions.  The devil can perform miracles too.  He can make folk sick and then take the illness away and  convince the person that it was a miracle of God.  God sometimes does heal and we don't know why he does not always heal.  Goldie was cured from Polio but not from cancer.

i personally knew a person who cured folk through the power of the devil and suffered opposition after she became a Christian and would no longer cure her friends and family.

[Gailon Arthur Joy]

Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant Church at work, post Laodicea. You can find them scattered amongst the Testimonies, Special Messages and the Conflict series and it is pretty clear that the work is done "door to door" and "two by two" and varies from health messages to Boble Studies and literature. Yes, the old fashioned way!!!

It should be obvious to anyone with foresight that Radio and Video Broadcast Licenses will not be available to the dissident Sabbath Keepers. Particularly those that identify the Beast Power and the Dragon of Revelation and then clarify with power the lamblike beast that becomes like a dragon.

Televangelists are already under assault by Government with Grassleys team having at least two IRS Attorneys assigned to assist with the investigation and nearly a dozen other team members.

The Internet may remain open a bit longer, but expect even this to become treacherous territory in time. Safe for sexual predators and pornographers, but not for Sabbath Keepers with a final message to a sick and dying world. But, whether it be Hope TV, 3ABN, LLBN, It is Written, VOP, Amazing Facts, etc, if you have affiliation with dissident sabbath Keepers, you will not be permitted to exist in the public broadcast arena!!!

People, the end is closing in rapidly. With Wall Street in disarray and the banking system near collapse it is clear the US is quickly filling its cup. We await the false reformation and the final eschatolgy will rapidly unfold.

And how many of our friends and neighbors will be pointing the finger at us when they realize they were duped and we failed to warn??? That is the VITAL QUESTION we must ponder as the stage curtain goes up on the final acts.

Gailon Arthur Joy

[Kitty]

Gailon,

I agree with you.  But it seems to me that we need to be going door to door now and making friends.  We need to offer our neighbors real help.  Does a single woman need help with repairs, her health problems,  a spiritual need, etc.  We plan to try such a program at our church soon.

For now though someone in our church is installing the satellite dishes and maintaing them so anyone can receive the Christian TV stations.  This has resulted in several baptisms.  We point the folk to Hope and LLBN mostly.

[Johann]

Just recently I heard an inspiring camp meeting speaker who comes from an area that has worked with 3ABN programming. I noted his comments on TV evangelism. He referred to TV roots in Hollywood and I understood him saying that so called Christian TV was a poor imitation of Hollywood, and therefore no substitute for peaching the gospel.

Was this too critical of televangelism?

[scratsmom]

Just recently I heard an inspiring camp meeting speaker who comes from an area that has worked with 3ABN programming. I noted his comments on TV evangelism. He referred to TV roots in Hollywood and I understood him saying that so called Christian TV was a poor imitation of Hollywood, and therefore no substitute for peaching the gospel.

Was this too critical of televangelism?

Using one bait and one method in fishing catches one kind of fish. If you want to catch all kinds, you have to vary your lure, location, time of day, and method. Some people are reached by TV evangelism. Some by NET meetings. Some by door to door. Some by inner city feeding ministries. Some by incarnational ministries like AFM. Claiming that one of them is "best" is like saying one note on the piano is the "best" one.

God has used all kinds of tools through the centuries. He has used ravens and donkeys, and said he could use the rocks if need be. There are many ways to preach the gospel, and public preaching is one way but by no means the only way. I don't see any of them as right or wrong, good or bad, better or worse. They can all be used to bring people to Christ, or to praise or glorify man's flesh and pride.

And bottom line, they (methods and people) are all only tools. To be used or not. Discarded, sharpened, upgraded, abandoned, by the Divine craftsman. Israel grew to believe they were God's only tool, and look how wrong they were. God's toolbox is bigger than that.

scratsmom   

[GrandmaNettie]

Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant Church at work, post Laodicea. You can find them scattered amongst the Testimonies, Special Messages and the Conflict series and it is pretty clear that the work is done "door to door" and "two by two" and varies from health messages to Boble Studies and literature. Yes, the old fashioned way!!!

It should be obvious to anyone with foresight that Radio and Video Broadcast Licenses will not be available to the dissident Sabbath Keepers. Particularly those that identify the Beast Power and the Dragon of Revelation and then clarify with power the lamblike beast that becomes like a dragon.

Televangelists are already under assault by Government with Grassleys team having at least two IRS Attorneys assigned to assist with the investigation and nearly a dozen other team members.

The Internet may remain open a bit longer, but expect even this to become treacherous territory in time. Safe for sexual predators and pornographers, but not for Sabbath Keepers with a final message to a sick and dying world. But, whether it be Hope TV, 3ABN, LLBN, It is Written, VOP, Amazing Facts, etc, if you have affiliation with dissident sabbath Keepers, you will not be permitted to exist in the public broadcast arena!!!

People, the end is closing in rapidly. With Wall Street in disarray and the banking system near collapse it is clear the US is quickly filling its cup. We await the false reformation and the final eschatolgy will rapidly unfold.

And how many of our friends and neighbors will be pointing the finger at us when they realize they were duped and we failed to warn??? That is the VITAL QUESTION we must ponder as the stage curtain goes up on the final acts.

Gailon Arthur Joy

Yes, "Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant church at work, post Laodicea."  As both you and Bob invoke quotes and refer to EGW on numerous occasions, and even though I will most likely be criticized again for doing so myself, I thought it prudent to quote one example of what EGW has written about the characters of those representing the Lord.  (I will get no argument that both you and Bob see yourselves  as representing the Lord in this investigation/legal conflict, right?)

1888 - The Ellen G. White 1888 materials
Chap. 169 - To O. A. Olsen
O-53-1895

Norfolk Villa, Granville, Sept. 10, 1895.

Eld. O. A. Olsen,

Dear Brother,--


For years I have carried a consuming burden for the cause of God in Battle Creek. I am now deeply troubled over the shape which matters are taking there, and the influence which is being exerted on the work everywhere. I ask you, my brother, how can you entrust A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay with so much responsibility in the work, and sent them hither and thither to all parts of the field? They are not by precept and example giving the third angel's message. The atmosphere which surrounds their souls, and which is revealed in spirit and influence, shows that they have lost the spirit of God out of their hearts and their experience. They are made responsible for many, many things, while they do not feel their accountability to God. {1888 1421.1}

Brother J. N. Nelson who is in the office cannot be regarded as in exactly the same position as those men, but he needs a different mould of character. He has not that kind, Christian courtesy that will have a saving, fragrant influence upon the minds of those who associate with him or do business with him. Though he may hold to right principles, his manner of representing these principles is such as to make a disagreeable impression upon the minds of those associated with him. His words, his manner of expression, creates thoughts and feelings that are very objectionable. A good man is to manifest his principles, but he can do this in a way that will not make such a disagreeable impression upon those with whom he does business. God requires brother Nelson to learn his lessons more perfectly in the school of Christ. His principles should be kept more vividly before his own mind, that they may bring forth in him the peaceable fruits of righteousness. His unfortunate manner of expression, and his spirit of criticism destroy his influence, that, if sanctified, might be of real value. {1888 1421.2}

The Lord wants brother Nelson to clothe himself with the garments of righteousness, and to bring into his practical life the sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ. This brother possesses qualifications of mind and character that if sanctified daily for the Master's use would enable him to become a vessel unto honor. But he needs the moulding and fashioning of Jesus. "The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things: and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." {1888 1422.1}

I would say to brother Nelson. Let your heart be joined to the heart of infinite love, let your life be knit by hidden links to the life of Jesus. Let your life be hid with Christ in God; then because Christ liveth, you will live also. God wants you to let him manage you that you may be a lovable Christian. The Lord would have the natural and hereditary traits of character come under the pruning knife. Look steadfastly unto Jesus, that you may catch his spirit, and cherish the qualities of Christlike character. Then it will be recognized by all who have any connection with you, that you have learned of Christ his meekness, his affection, his tenderness, his sympathy. Never rest satisfied until you possess a loving and lovable spirit. Your words may come from the good treasure of the heart, to strengthen, help, bless, and win all around you. True conscientiousness will make the religious life attractive. But your religion has altogether too much acidity to be palatable. You sour your influence by a stubborn, set determination; your critical censoriousness sets the teeth on edge. God help you, my brother, for you need melting. {1888 1422.2}

Others catch your spirit. The seeds we sow will bear harvest in goodness, patience, kindness, and love, or exactly the opposite. It is not your purpose to do wrong acts, but you do not see the necessity of doing pleasant acts, so that from you men receive a better impression of the Christian character. More of the spirit of the beloved disciple John would make you more fragrant and lovable, and a far better example of what constitutes a true Christian life. {1888 1423.1}

Many, many, need melting over. Be sound in principle, true to God, but do not manifest one stern, ungenial phase of character. God does not want you to incur contempt by manifesting a disposition like a ball of putty, but he does want you to be in principle as sound as a rock, yet with a healthful mellowness. Like the Master, be full of grace and truth. Jesus was incorruptible, undefiled, yet in his life were mingled gentleness, meekness, benignity, sympathy, and love. The poorest were not afraid to approach him; they did not fear a rebuff. What Christ was every Christian should strive to be. In holiness and winsomeness of character He is our model. {1888 1423.2}

"Learn of me," says Jesus; "for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls." We should all learn of Christ what it means to be a Christian. Let us learn of him how to combine firmness, justice, purity, and integrity with unselfish courtesy and kindly sympathy. Thus the character becomes lovable and attractive. The beauty of holiness will disarm scoffers. {1888 1424.1}
The workers at the Review and Herald office will not enter into the kingdom of heaven, unless their character reflects the character of Christ. The heart must receive the divine current, and let it flow out in rich streams of mercy and grace to other hearts. All who would win souls to Christ must be winsome. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Ellen G. White {1888 1424.2}

Job 13:7-9 has some comments that I believe could apply here:

7 Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf?
Will you speak deceitfully for him?

8 Will you show him partiality?
Will you argue the case for God?

9 Would it turn out well if he examined you?
Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?


I'm certainly not saying that I am perfect.  As I have sought the facts in this saga for the last two years, I have attempted to treat all sides and each person as of value.  Imperfect as I am, it is still obvious that to call for the removal of sin from the camp while lambasting others in an unChristlike manner smacks of hypocrisy.  Is that the spirit that will stand in the final days?  It is the spirit that will woo other hearts to seek the Lord?

For me, it is the very spirit that turned me away from the "Remnant" and from contact with the denomination for decades.  What brought me back was finding a church that was more interested in embracing me and my imperfections and supporting my personal journey in God's Grace, who are treating me and each other with "Christian courtesy", with the "sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ".

[GrandmaNettie]

Just recently I heard an inspiring camp meeting speaker who comes from an area that has worked with 3ABN programming. I noted his comments on TV evangelism. He referred to TV roots in Hollywood and I understood him saying that so called Christian TV was a poor imitation of Hollywood, and therefore no substitute for peaching the gospel.

Was this too critical of televangelism?

Using one bait and one method in fishing catches one kind of fish. If you want to catch all kinds, you have to vary your lure, location, time of day, and method. Some people are reached by TV evangelism. Some by NET meetings. Some by door to door. Some by inner city feeding ministries. Some by incarnational ministries like AFM. Claiming that one of them is "best" is like saying one note on the piano is the "best" one.

God has used all kinds of tools through the centuries. He has used ravens and donkeys, and said he could use the rocks if need be. There are many ways to preach the gospel, and public preaching is one way but by no means the only way. I don't see any of them as right or wrong, good or bad, better or worse. They can all be used to bring people to Christ, or to praise or glorify man's flesh and pride.

And bottom line, they (methods and people) are all only tools. To be used or not. Discarded, sharpened, upgraded, abandoned, by the Divine craftsman. Israel grew to believe they were God's only tool, and look how wrong they were. God's toolbox is bigger than that.

scratsmom   

Beautifully put, scratsmom!  Amen!

[Johann]

Just recently I heard an inspiring camp meeting speaker who comes from an area that has worked with 3ABN programming. I noted his comments on TV evangelism. He referred to TV roots in Hollywood and I understood him saying that so called Christian TV was a poor imitation of Hollywood, and therefore no substitute for peaching the gospel.

Was this too critical of televangelism?

Using one bait and one method in fishing catches one kind of fish. If you want to catch all kinds, you have to vary your lure, location, time of day, and method. Some people are reached by TV evangelism. Some by NET meetings. Some by door to door. Some by inner city feeding ministries. Some by incarnational ministries like AFM. Claiming that one of them is "best" is like saying one note on the piano is the "best" one.

God has used all kinds of tools through the centuries. He has used ravens and donkeys, and said he could use the rocks if need be. There are many ways to preach the gospel, and public preaching is one way but by no means the only way. I don't see any of them as right or wrong, good or bad, better or worse. They can all be used to bring people to Christ, or to praise or glorify man's flesh and pride.

And bottom line, they (methods and people) are all only tools. To be used or not. Discarded, sharpened, upgraded, abandoned, by the Divine craftsman. Israel grew to believe they were God's only tool, and look how wrong they were. God's toolbox is bigger than that.

scratsmom   

I tend to agree with you as long as it is not claimed f. inst. that only one of the TV networks is the superior proclamation tool of Adventism.

[scratsmom]

I tend to agree with you as long as it is not claimed f. inst. that only one of the TV networks is the superior proclamation tool of Adventism.

Hey, I'm with you. One doesn't have to look far in the Bible or history to find stories of pride going before a fall. Or of the danger of believing that one is superior, spiritually or otherwise. God seems to know how to humble us when we jack up our pedestal too high...

Trouble is, if I am up on that pedestal and trouble comes, I am just as likely to assume that it is proof of my superiority and Satan is causing me to have trials. Been there...

No fear, God is able... 

Blessings to you, Johann

scratsmom   

[Gailon Arthur Joy]

Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant Church at work, post Laodicea. You can find them scattered amongst the Testimonies, Special Messages and the Conflict series and it is pretty clear that the work is done "door to door" and "two by two" and varies from health messages to Boble Studies and literature. Yes, the old fashioned way!!!

It should be obvious to anyone with foresight that Radio and Video Broadcast Licenses will not be available to the dissident Sabbath Keepers. Particularly those that identify the Beast Power and the Dragon of Revelation and then clarify with power the lamblike beast that becomes like a dragon.

Televangelists are already under assault by Government with Grassleys team having at least two IRS Attorneys assigned to assist with the investigation and nearly a dozen other team members.

The Internet may remain open a bit longer, but expect even this to become treacherous territory in time. Safe for sexual predators and pornographers, but not for Sabbath Keepers with a final message to a sick and dying world. But, whether it be Hope TV, 3ABN, LLBN, It is Written, VOP, Amazing Facts, etc, if you have affiliation with dissident sabbath Keepers, you will not be permitted to exist in the public broadcast arena!!!

People, the end is closing in rapidly. With Wall Street in disarray and the banking system near collapse it is clear the US is quickly filling its cup. We await the false reformation and the final eschatolgy will rapidly unfold.

And how many of our friends and neighbors will be pointing the finger at us when they realize they were duped and we failed to warn??? That is the VITAL QUESTION we must ponder as the stage curtain goes up on the final acts.

Gailon Arthur Joy

Yes, "Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant church at work, post Laodicea."  As both you and Bob invoke quotes and refer to EGW on numerous occasions, and even though I will most likely be criticized again for doing so myself, I thought it prudent to quote one example of what EGW has written about the characters of those representing the Lord.  (I will get no argument that both you and Bob see yourselves  as representing the Lord in this investigation/legal conflict, right?)

1888 - The Ellen G. White 1888 materials
Chap. 169 - To O. A. Olsen
O-53-1895

Norfolk Villa, Granville, Sept. 10, 1895.

Eld. O. A. Olsen,

Dear Brother,--


For years I have carried a consuming burden for the cause of God in Battle Creek. I am now deeply troubled over the shape which matters are taking there, and the influence which is being exerted on the work everywhere. I ask you, my brother, how can you entrust A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay with so much responsibility in the work, and sent them hither and thither to all parts of the field? They are not by precept and example giving the third angel's message. The atmosphere which surrounds their souls, and which is revealed in spirit and influence, shows that they have lost the spirit of God out of their hearts and their experience. They are made responsible for many, many things, while they do not feel their accountability to God. {1888 1421.1}

Brother J. N. Nelson who is in the office cannot be regarded as in exactly the same position as those men, but he needs a different mould of character. He has not that kind, Christian courtesy that will have a saving, fragrant influence upon the minds of those who associate with him or do business with him. Though he may hold to right principles, his manner of representing these principles is such as to make a disagreeable impression upon the minds of those associated with him. His words, his manner of expression, creates thoughts and feelings that are very objectionable. A good man is to manifest his principles, but he can do this in a way that will not make such a disagreeable impression upon those with whom he does business. God requires brother Nelson to learn his lessons more perfectly in the school of Christ. His principles should be kept more vividly before his own mind, that they may bring forth in him the peaceable fruits of righteousness. His unfortunate manner of expression, and his spirit of criticism destroy his influence, that, if sanctified, might be of real value. {1888 1421.2}

The Lord wants brother Nelson to clothe himself with the garments of righteousness, and to bring into his practical life the sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ. This brother possesses qualifications of mind and character that if sanctified daily for the Master's use would enable him to become a vessel unto honor. But he needs the moulding and fashioning of Jesus. "The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things: and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." {1888 1422.1}

I would say to brother Nelson. Let your heart be joined to the heart of infinite love, let your life be knit by hidden links to the life of Jesus. Let your life be hid with Christ in God; then because Christ liveth, you will live also. God wants you to let him manage you that you may be a lovable Christian. The Lord would have the natural and hereditary traits of character come under the pruning knife. Look steadfastly unto Jesus, that you may catch his spirit, and cherish the qualities of Christlike character. Then it will be recognized by all who have any connection with you, that you have learned of Christ his meekness, his affection, his tenderness, his sympathy. Never rest satisfied until you possess a loving and lovable spirit. Your words may come from the good treasure of the heart, to strengthen, help, bless, and win all around you. True conscientiousness will make the religious life attractive. But your religion has altogether too much acidity to be palatable. You sour your influence by a stubborn, set determination; your critical censoriousness sets the teeth on edge. God help you, my brother, for you need melting. {1888 1422.2}

Others catch your spirit. The seeds we sow will bear harvest in goodness, patience, kindness, and love, or exactly the opposite. It is not your purpose to do wrong acts, but you do not see the necessity of doing pleasant acts, so that from you men receive a better impression of the Christian character. More of the spirit of the beloved disciple John would make you more fragrant and lovable, and a far better example of what constitutes a true Christian life. {1888 1423.1}

Many, many, need melting over. Be sound in principle, true to God, but do not manifest one stern, ungenial phase of character. God does not want you to incur contempt by manifesting a disposition like a ball of putty, but he does want you to be in principle as sound as a rock, yet with a healthful mellowness. Like the Master, be full of grace and truth. Jesus was incorruptible, undefiled, yet in his life were mingled gentleness, meekness, benignity, sympathy, and love. The poorest were not afraid to approach him; they did not fear a rebuff. What Christ was every Christian should strive to be. In holiness and winsomeness of character He is our model. {1888 1423.2}

"Learn of me," says Jesus; "for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls." We should all learn of Christ what it means to be a Christian. Let us learn of him how to combine firmness, justice, purity, and integrity with unselfish courtesy and kindly sympathy. Thus the character becomes lovable and attractive. The beauty of holiness will disarm scoffers. {1888 1424.1}
The workers at the Review and Herald office will not enter into the kingdom of heaven, unless their character reflects the character of Christ. The heart must receive the divine current, and let it flow out in rich streams of mercy and grace to other hearts. All who would win souls to Christ must be winsome. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Ellen G. White {1888 1424.2}

Job 13:7-9 has some comments that I believe could apply here:

7 Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf?
Will you speak deceitfully for him?

8 Will you show him partiality?
Will you argue the case for God?

9 Would it turn out well if he examined you?
Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?


I'm certainly not saying that I am perfect.  As I have sought the facts in this saga for the last two years, I have attempted to treat all sides and each person as of value.  Imperfect as I am, it is still obvious that to call for the removal of sin from the camp while lambasting others in an unChristlike manner smacks of hypocrisy.  Is that the spirit that will stand in the final days?  It is the spirit that will woo other hearts to seek the Lord?

For me, it is the very spirit that turned me away from the "Remnant" and from contact with the denomination for decades.  What brought me back was finding a church that was more interested in embracing me and my imperfections and supporting my personal journey in God's Grace, who are treating me and each other with "Christian courtesy", with the "sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ".

Are you applying this to us or 3ABN, Grandma? Or is it for us all?

Then again, have you ever reported what your diligent invetsigation has determined? And can you document your conclusions?

Cannot wait for your report!!!

Gailon Arthur Joy

[GrandmaNettie]

Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant Church at work, post Laodicea. You can find them scattered amongst the Testimonies, Special Messages and the Conflict series and it is pretty clear that the work is done "door to door" and "two by two" and varies from health messages to Boble Studies and literature. Yes, the old fashioned way!!!

It should be obvious to anyone with foresight that Radio and Video Broadcast Licenses will not be available to the dissident Sabbath Keepers. Particularly those that identify the Beast Power and the Dragon of Revelation and then clarify with power the lamblike beast that becomes like a dragon.

Televangelists are already under assault by Government with Grassleys team having at least two IRS Attorneys assigned to assist with the investigation and nearly a dozen other team members.

The Internet may remain open a bit longer, but expect even this to become treacherous territory in time. Safe for sexual predators and pornographers, but not for Sabbath Keepers with a final message to a sick and dying world. But, whether it be Hope TV, 3ABN, LLBN, It is Written, VOP, Amazing Facts, etc, if you have affiliation with dissident sabbath Keepers, you will not be permitted to exist in the public broadcast arena!!!

People, the end is closing in rapidly. With Wall Street in disarray and the banking system near collapse it is clear the US is quickly filling its cup. We await the false reformation and the final eschatolgy will rapidly unfold.

And how many of our friends and neighbors will be pointing the finger at us when they realize they were duped and we failed to warn??? That is the VITAL QUESTION we must ponder as the stage curtain goes up on the final acts.

Gailon Arthur Joy

Yes, "Inspiration gives a clear vision of the Remnant church at work, post Laodicea."  As both you and Bob invoke quotes and refer to EGW on numerous occasions, and even though I will most likely be criticized again for doing so myself, I thought it prudent to quote one example of what EGW has written about the characters of those representing the Lord.  (I will get no argument that both you and Bob see yourselves  as representing the Lord in this investigation/legal conflict, right?)

1888 - The Ellen G. White 1888 materials
Chap. 169 - To O. A. Olsen
O-53-1895

Norfolk Villa, Granville, Sept. 10, 1895.

Eld. O. A. Olsen,

Dear Brother,--


For years I have carried a consuming burden for the cause of God in Battle Creek. I am now deeply troubled over the shape which matters are taking there, and the influence which is being exerted on the work everywhere. I ask you, my brother, how can you entrust A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay with so much responsibility in the work, and sent them hither and thither to all parts of the field? They are not by precept and example giving the third angel's message. The atmosphere which surrounds their souls, and which is revealed in spirit and influence, shows that they have lost the spirit of God out of their hearts and their experience. They are made responsible for many, many things, while they do not feel their accountability to God. {1888 1421.1}

Brother J. N. Nelson who is in the office cannot be regarded as in exactly the same position as those men, but he needs a different mould of character. He has not that kind, Christian courtesy that will have a saving, fragrant influence upon the minds of those who associate with him or do business with him. Though he may hold to right principles, his manner of representing these principles is such as to make a disagreeable impression upon the minds of those associated with him. His words, his manner of expression, creates thoughts and feelings that are very objectionable. A good man is to manifest his principles, but he can do this in a way that will not make such a disagreeable impression upon those with whom he does business. God requires brother Nelson to learn his lessons more perfectly in the school of Christ. His principles should be kept more vividly before his own mind, that they may bring forth in him the peaceable fruits of righteousness. His unfortunate manner of expression, and his spirit of criticism destroy his influence, that, if sanctified, might be of real value. {1888 1421.2}

The Lord wants brother Nelson to clothe himself with the garments of righteousness, and to bring into his practical life the sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ. This brother possesses qualifications of mind and character that if sanctified daily for the Master's use would enable him to become a vessel unto honor. But he needs the moulding and fashioning of Jesus. "The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things: and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." {1888 1422.1}

I would say to brother Nelson. Let your heart be joined to the heart of infinite love, let your life be knit by hidden links to the life of Jesus. Let your life be hid with Christ in God; then because Christ liveth, you will live also. God wants you to let him manage you that you may be a lovable Christian. The Lord would have the natural and hereditary traits of character come under the pruning knife. Look steadfastly unto Jesus, that you may catch his spirit, and cherish the qualities of Christlike character. Then it will be recognized by all who have any connection with you, that you have learned of Christ his meekness, his affection, his tenderness, his sympathy. Never rest satisfied until you possess a loving and lovable spirit. Your words may come from the good treasure of the heart, to strengthen, help, bless, and win all around you. True conscientiousness will make the religious life attractive. But your religion has altogether too much acidity to be palatable. You sour your influence by a stubborn, set determination; your critical censoriousness sets the teeth on edge. God help you, my brother, for you need melting. {1888 1422.2}

Others catch your spirit. The seeds we sow will bear harvest in goodness, patience, kindness, and love, or exactly the opposite. It is not your purpose to do wrong acts, but you do not see the necessity of doing pleasant acts, so that from you men receive a better impression of the Christian character. More of the spirit of the beloved disciple John would make you more fragrant and lovable, and a far better example of what constitutes a true Christian life. {1888 1423.1}

Many, many, need melting over. Be sound in principle, true to God, but do not manifest one stern, ungenial phase of character. God does not want you to incur contempt by manifesting a disposition like a ball of putty, but he does want you to be in principle as sound as a rock, yet with a healthful mellowness. Like the Master, be full of grace and truth. Jesus was incorruptible, undefiled, yet in his life were mingled gentleness, meekness, benignity, sympathy, and love. The poorest were not afraid to approach him; they did not fear a rebuff. What Christ was every Christian should strive to be. In holiness and winsomeness of character He is our model. {1888 1423.2}

"Learn of me," says Jesus; "for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls." We should all learn of Christ what it means to be a Christian. Let us learn of him how to combine firmness, justice, purity, and integrity with unselfish courtesy and kindly sympathy. Thus the character becomes lovable and attractive. The beauty of holiness will disarm scoffers. {1888 1424.1}
The workers at the Review and Herald office will not enter into the kingdom of heaven, unless their character reflects the character of Christ. The heart must receive the divine current, and let it flow out in rich streams of mercy and grace to other hearts. All who would win souls to Christ must be winsome. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Ellen G. White {1888 1424.2}

Job 13:7-9 has some comments that I believe could apply here:

7 Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf?
Will you speak deceitfully for him?

8 Will you show him partiality?
Will you argue the case for God?

9 Would it turn out well if he examined you?
Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?


I'm certainly not saying that I am perfect.  As I have sought the facts in this saga for the last two years, I have attempted to treat all sides and each person as of value.  Imperfect as I am, it is still obvious that to call for the removal of sin from the camp while lambasting others in an unChristlike manner smacks of hypocrisy.  Is that the spirit that will stand in the final days?  It is the spirit that will woo other hearts to seek the Lord?

For me, it is the very spirit that turned me away from the "Remnant" and from contact with the denomination for decades.  What brought me back was finding a church that was more interested in embracing me and my imperfections and supporting my personal journey in God's Grace, who are treating me and each other with "Christian courtesy", with the "sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ".

Are you applying this to us or 3ABN, Grandma? Or is it for us all?

Then again, have you ever reported what your diligent invetsigation has determined? And can you document your conclusions?

Cannot wait for your report!!!

Gailon Arthur Joy

The obvious answer, Gailon, is that it applies to every person who presents themselves as representatives, or disciples of Christ.  I don't make a habit of quoting EGW because far too often it is used as proof texts for someone's rigid POV.  This chapter, I believe, is a beautifully basic common sense approach on how to treat others. I specifically replied with an EGW quote that deals with the characters of those who presents themselves as Christians since you invoked inspiration in your post.  I wanted to speak in a language that you would understand and would not be hasty to discount or belittle.  Since you spoke of inspiration, I imagined you had a respect for the counsel written there.  It has been quite obvious to some of the readers here that the spirit of many of your recent posts has been less than Christlike to those who are on the other side of things.  Some of them, as well, have spoken with a spirit that does not reflect the character God wishes for us to exhibit to one another.

As far as my "diligent investigation", what I actually stated was that I "have sought the facts in this saga for the last two years", I have read what has been posted on various sites and what has been emailed around.  I have contacted the pertinent sources to verify or refute information as I can.  To a point in 2007, you know that you and Bob were given the fruits of my research and corroboration but that I backed off from being a small part of your investigation when you both chose to use tactics that I couldn't, in good faith, support.

It matters little to me that you and others are treating me with contempt as though I was an enemy.  It matters little that I have been depicted as betraying the cause simply because I care about people on all sides and because I question an investigation that attempts to smear people I care about and uses tactics that can not, IMO, be sanctioned by God.  My goal has always been to get to the truth, the facts.  As I have stated before, I value each and every person involved on every side.  Each and every person.  None are worthless or expendable.

[Bob Pickle]

Greg is not expendable, and he is a precious soul that Jesus died for. But that doesn't mean that questions about what Ronnie and Walt meant shouldn't be asked and answered.