The Bible teaches that we are to show our utmost regard for Jesus Christ, our Creator, Redeemer, our Friend.
But the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy also tell us that Jesus looks upon His children with supreme regard.
Job. The man God trusted and chose as His champion to exemplify that through faith and complete surrender to Him, man can overcome.
Abraham. The man God trusted and chose to be the progenitor of His people.
Moses. The man God trusted and prepared to lead His people out of a heathen country into the promised land.
God’s church, His people, were carried through time by these men and those who came after bearing the same spirit and love for God.
Enoch. The man who walked with God. David. The man after God’s own heart. Joseph, Daniel and the three worthies. Men who remained faithful no matter the cost. Paul. The man who spread the gospel of Jesus Christ before kings. The Waldenses, Ellen White, the early Adventist Church, and so many others.
Listen to how Mrs. White expresses God’s supreme regard for His people:
“The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world.” Christian Service, 15
“Christ loves His church. He will give all needed help to those who call upon Him for strength for the development of Christlike character.
“The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to ‘the principalities and powers in heavenly places,’ the final and full display of the love of God. …
“God’s love for His church is infinite. His care over His heritage is unceasing.” Sons and Daughters of God, 13
“The church of Christ is the only object on the earth upon which He bestows His supreme regard … .” The Review and Herald, December 11, 1888
“The love which Christ has evinced for us is without a parallel. How earnestly He labored! How often was He alone in fervent prayer, on the mountainside or in the retirement of the garden, pouring out His supplications with strong crying and tears. How perseveringly He urged His petitions in behalf of sinners! Even on the cross He forgot His own sufferings in His deep love for those whom He came to save.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 385
“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise Him in the heights!
“Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His hosts!
“Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you stars of light!
“Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, and you waters above the heavens!
“Let them praise the name of the Lord, for He commanded and they were created.
“He also established them forever and ever; He made a decree which shall not pass away.
“Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all the depths; fire and hail, snow and clouds; stormy wind, fulfilling His word; mountains and all hills; Fruitful trees and all cedars; beasts and all cattle; creeping things and flying fowl; kings of the earth and all peoples; princes and all judges of the earth; both young men and maidens; old men and children.
“Let them praise the name of the Lord, For His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven.”
Psalm 148:1–13