health reform

Bible Study Guides – The Pattern

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November 6, 2005 – November 12, 2005

Key Text

“And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” Ephesians 5:2.

Study Help: Medical Ministry, 19–29.

Introduction

“Christ’s work is to be our example. Constantly He went about doing good. In the temple and the synagogues, in the streets of the cities, in the market place and the workshop, by the seaside and among the hills, He preached the gospel and healed the sick. His life was one of unselfish service, and it is to be our lessonbook. His tender, pitying love rebukes our selfishness and heartlessness.

“Wherever Christ went, He scattered blessings in His path. How many who claim to believe on Him have learned His lessons of kindness, of tender pity, of unselfish love? Hear His voice speaking to the weak, the weary, the helpless: ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.’ Matthew 11:28. There was no wearying of His patience, no repressing of His love.

“Christ calls upon us to labor patiently and perseveringly for the thousands perishing in their sins, scattered in all lands, like wrecks on a desert shore. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share also in His ministry, helping the weak, the wretched, and the despondent.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 31.

1 What was the main focus of Jesus’ work for the human race as foretold by prophecy? Isaiah 61:1–3. Compare Luke 4:17–21.

note: “Christ, the outshining of the Father’s glory, came to the world as its light. He came to represent God to men, and of Him it is written that He was anointed ‘with the Holy Ghost and with power,’ and ‘went about doing good.’ Acts 10:38. In the synagogue at Nazareth He said, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.’ Luke 4:18, 19. This was the work He commissioned His disciples to do. [Matthew 5:14, 16 quoted.]” Christ’s Object Lessons, 416, 417.

2 How did Jesus indicate that we are to follow His example? John 13:34.

note: “Christ stands before us as the pattern Man, the great Medical Missionary—an example for all who should come after. His love, pure and holy, blessed all who came within the sphere of its influence. His character was absolutely perfect, free from the slightest stain of sin. He came as an expression of the perfect love of God, not to crush, not to judge and condemn, but to heal every weak, defective character, to save men and woman from Satan’s power.

“He is the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer of the human race. He gives to all the invitation, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.’ [Matthew 11:28–30.]

“What, then, is the example that we are to set to the world? We are to do the same work that the great Medical Missionary undertook in our behalf. We are to follow the path of self-sacrifice trodden by Christ.” Medical Ministry, 20.

3 What is the only way we can expect to have success in our work today? Isaiah 58:6–8.

note: “The world needs today what it needed nineteen hundred years ago—a revelation of Christ. A great work of reform is demanded, and it is only through the grace of Christ that the work of restoration, physical, mental, and spiritual, can be accomplished.

“Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’ ” The Ministry of Healing, 143.

4 What is the origin and purpose of true medical missionary work? John 17:15–17. Compare Ephesians 4:13–15.

note: “Our work is clearly defined. As the Father sent His only-begotten Son into our world, even so Christ sends us, His disciples, as His medical missionary workers. In fulfilling this high and holy mission, we are to do the will of God. No one man’s mind or judgment is to be our criterion of what constitutes genuine medical missionary work. . . .

“True medical missionary work is of heavenly origin. It was not originated by any person who lives. But in connection with this work we see so much which dishonors God that I am instructed to say, The medical missionary work is of divine origin, and has a most glorious mission to fulfill. In all its bearings it is to be in conformity with Christ’s work. Those who are workers together with God will just as surely represent the character of Christ as Christ represented the character of His Father while in this world.” Medical Ministry, 24.

5 How did Jesus qualify as the greatest Medical Missionary the world has ever seen? Matthew 4:23, 24; 8:16, 17.

note: “The Saviour devoted more time and labor to healing the afflicted of their maladies than to preaching. His last injunction to His apostles, His representatives on earth, was to lay hands on the sick that they might recover. When the Master shall come, He will commend those who have visited the sick and relieved the necessities of the afflicted.” Counsels on Health, 34.

6 What two major aspects of ministry did Jesus combine in His work? Matthew 9:1–7.

note: “Christ has given us an example. He taught from the Scriptures the gospel truths, and He also healed the afflicted ones who came to Him for relief. He was the greatest physician the world ever knew, and yet He combined with His healing work the imparting of soul-saving truth.” Counsels on Health, 544.

“Christ’s work for the paralytic is an illustration of the way we are to work. . . . His first work was to give him peace of mind. ‘Son,’ He said, ‘thy sins be forgiven thee.’ This assurance filled his heart with peace and joy. But some who were present began to murmur, saying in their hearts, ‘Who can forgive sins but God only?’ Then that they might know that the Son of man had power to forgive sins, Christ said to the sick man: ‘Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.’ This shows how the Saviour bound together the work of preaching the truth and healing the sick.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 234.

7 What blessed results did Jesus leave in His wake as He passed through the land? Matthew 4:13–16.

note: “In describing His earthly mission, Jesus said, The Lord ‘hath anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.’ Luke 4:18. This was His work. He went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed by Satan. There were whole villages where there was not a moan of sickness in any house, for He had passed through them and healed all their sick.” Steps to Christ, 11.

8 What means did Jesus utilize to effect some of His miraculous cures? John 9:6, 7.

note: “On one occasion Christ anointed the eyes of a blind man with clay and bade him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam. . . . He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.’ John 9:7. The cure could be wrought only by the power of the Great Healer, yet Christ made use of the simple agencies of nature. While He did not give countenance to drug medication, He sanctioned the use of simple and natural remedies.” The Ministry of Healing, 233.

9 What important truth is to be embraced by the remnant church at the end of time? 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.

note: “The question of how to preserve the health is one of primary importance. When we study this question in the fear of God we shall learn that it is best, for both our physical and our spiritual advancement, to observe simplicity in diet. Let us patiently study this question. We need knowledge and judgment in order to move wisely in this matter. Nature’s laws are not to be resisted, but obeyed.

“Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh foods, tea and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfected people.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 153, 154.

10 How is the health reform message characterized in relation to the third angel’s message? 1 Corinthians 10:31.

note: “The gospel of health has able advocates, but their work has been made very hard because so many ministers, presidents of conferences, and others in positions of influence have failed to give the question of health reform its proper attention. They have not recognized it in its relation to the work of the message as the right arm of the body. While very little respect has been shown to this department by many of the people, and by some of the ministers, the Lord has shown His regard for it by giving it abundant prosperity. When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart. When the third angel’s message is received in its fullness, health reform will be given its place in the councils of the conference, in the work of the church, in the home, at the table, and in all the household arrangements. Then the right arm will serve and protect the body.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 327.

11 What kinds of activities will God’s people be engaged in under the power of the Holy Spirit as the gospel work closes? Matthew 10:8.

note: “In visions of the night, representations passed before me of a great reformatory movement among God’s people. Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening before them the word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the heavenly influence. Great blessings were received by the true and humble people of God. I heard voices of thanksgiving and praise, and there seemed to be a reformation such as we witnessed in 1844.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 126.

12 What amazing scenes transpire as the true people of God go forth to give the final warning in the closing time of earth’s history? Acts 5:12.

note: “The third message was to do its work; all were to be tested upon it, and the precious ones were to be called out from the religious bodies. A compelling power moved the honest, while the manifestation of the power of God brought a fear and restraint upon their unbelieving relatives and friends so that they dared not, neither had they the power to, hinder those who felt the work of the Spirit of God upon them. The last call was carried even to the poor slaves, and the pious among them poured forth their songs of rapturous joy at the prospect of their happy deliverance. Their masters could not check them; fear and astonishment kept them silent. Mighty miracles were wrought, the sick were healed, and signs and wonders followed the believers. God was in the work, and every saint, fearless of consequences, followed the convictions of his own conscience and united with those who were keeping all the commandments of God; and with power they sounded abroad the third message. I saw that this message will close with power and strength far exceeding the midnight cry.” Early Writings, 278.

13 How does inspiration portray the last, decisive thrust of the true church under latter rain power? Revelation 18:1.

note: “Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers. Satan also works, with lying wonders, even bringing down fire from heaven in the sight of men. Revelation 13:13. Thus the inhabitants of the earth will be brought to take their stand.” The Great Controversy, 612.

Health Reform

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“We are to present the principles of health reform before the people, doing all in our power to lead men and women to see the necessity of these principles, and to practice them.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 379.

“The question of health reform is not agitated as it must and will be.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 304.

“A responsibility to spread the knowledge of hygienic principles rests upon all who have enjoyed the benefits of health reform.” The Home Missionary, July 1, 1892.

“We are amid the closing scenes of this world’s history, and there should be harmonious action in the ranks of Sabbathkeepers. Those who stand aloof from the great work of instructing the people upon this question do not follow where the Great Physician leads the way. ‘If any man will come after Me,’ Christ said, ‘let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’ Matthew 16:24.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 378.

Why is Health Reform so Important?

“As our first parents lost Eden through the indulgence of appetite, our only hope of regaining Eden is through the firm denial of appetite and passion.” Ibid., vol. 3, 491.

“His [Christ’s] example declares that our only hope of eternal life is through bringing the appetites and passions into subjection to the will of God.” The Desire of Ages, 122.

Greatest Hindrance to Spiritual Life

“God requires continual advancement from his people. They need to learn that indulged appetite is the greatest hindrance to mental improvement and soul sanctification. With all our profession of health reform, many of us eat improperly. Indulgence of appetite is the greatest cause of physical and mental debility, and lies largely at the foundation of feebleness and premature death. Let the individual who is seeking to possess purity of spirit bear in mind that in Christ there is power to control the appetite.” Review and Herald, February 24, 1910.

“The controlling power of appetite will prove the ruin of thousands, when, if they had conquered on this point, they would have had moral power to gain the victory over every other temptation of Satan.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 491, 492.

“One of the strongest temptations that man has to meet is upon the point of appetite.” Ibid., 485.

“Let him who is struggling against the power of appetite look to the Saviour in the wilderness of temptation. See Him in His agony upon the cross, as He exclaimed, ‘I thirst.’ [John 19:28.] He has endured all that it is possible for us to bear. His victory is ours.” The Desire of Ages, 123.

“Men and women cannot violate natural law by indulging depraved appetite and lustful passions, and not violate the law of God. Therefore He has permitted the light of health reform to shine upon us, that we may see our sin in violating the laws which He has established in our being.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 161.

“God has shown that health reform is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is with the body. There is nowhere to be found so great a cause of physical and moral degeneracy as a neglect of this important subject. Those who indulge appetite and passion, and close their eyes to the light for fear they will see sinful indulgences which they are unwilling to forsake, are guilty before God. Whoever turns from the light in one instance hardens his heart to disregard the light upon other matters. Whoever violates moral obligations in the matter of eating and dressing prepares the way to violate the claims of God in regard to eternal interests.” Ibid., 62, 63.

“You need clear, energetic minds, in order to appreciate the exalted character of the truth, to value the atonement, and to place the right estimate upon eternal things. If you pursue a wrong course, and indulge in wrong habits of eating, and thereby weaken the intellectual powers, you will not place that high estimate upon salvation and eternal life which will inspire you to conform your life to the life of Christ; you will not make those earnest, self-sacrificing efforts for entire conformity to the will of God, which His word requires, and which are necessary to give you a moral fitness for the finishing touch of immortality.” Ibid., vol. 2, 66.

God’s Requirement

“God requires all men to render their bodies to Him a living sacrifice, not a dead or a dying sacrifice, a sacrifice which their own course of action is debilitating, filling with impurities and disease. God calls for a living sacrifice. The body, He tells us, is the temple of the Holy Ghost, the habitation of His Spirit, and He requires all who bear His image to take care of their bodies for the purpose of His service and His glory. ‘Ye are not your own,’ says the inspired apostle, ‘ye are bought with a price;’ wherefore ‘glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.’ [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] In order to do this, add to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience. [2 Peter 1:5, 6.] It is a duty to know how to preserve the body in the very best condition of health, and it is a sacred duty to live up to the light which God has graciously given. If we close our eyes to the light for fear we shall see our wrongs, which we are unwilling to forsake, our sins are not lessened but increased. If light is turned from in one case, it will be disregarded in another. It is just as much sin to violate the laws of our being as to break one of the Ten Commandments, for we cannot do either without breaking God’s law. We cannot love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength while we are loving our appetites, our tastes, a great deal better than we love the Lord.” Ibid., 70.

“God sets the sins of His erring people before them, that they may behold them in all their enormity under the light of divine truth. It is then their duty to renounce them forever.” Ibid., vol. 4, 15.

“Our condemnation in the judgment will not result from the fact that we have been in error, but from the fact that we have neglected heaven-sent opportunities for learning what is truth.” The Desire of Ages, 489.

“If God’s people would recognize His dealings with them and accept His teachings, they would find a straight path for their feet and a light to guide them through darkness and discouragement.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 14.

“At this time, there is a people whom God has made the depositaries of His law. To those who obey them, the commandments of God are as a pillar of fire, lighting and leading the way to eternal salvation. But unto those who disregard them, they are as the clouds of night.” Ibid., 27.

“With intense interest God and heavenly angels mark the self-denial, the self-sacrifice, and the agonizing efforts of those who engage to run the Christian race. The reward given to every man will be in accordance with the persevering energy and faithful earnestness with which he performs his part in the great contest.” Ibid., 34, 35.

“Come out from among them, and be separate, saith the Lord, and I will receive you, and ye shall be sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty. [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] What a promise is this! It is a pledge to you that you shall become members of the royal family, heirs of the heavenly kingdom. If a person is honored by, or becomes connected with, any of the monarchs of earth, how it goes the rounds of the periodicals of the day and excites the envy of those who think themselves less fortunate. But here is One who is King over all, the monarch of the universe, the Originator of every good thing; and He says to us: I will make you My sons and daughters; I will unite you to Myself; you shall become members of the royal family and children of the heavenly King.” Ibid., vol. 2, 592.

“Says Paul: ‘Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.’ Why should we not do this, when we have such an inducement, the privilege of becoming children of the Most High, the privilege of calling the God of heaven our Father? Is not that enough? And do you call this depriving you of everything that is worth having? Is this giving up everything that is worth possessing? Let me be united to God and holy angels, for this is my highest ambition. You may have all the possessions of this world; but I must have Jesus; I must have a right to the immortal inheritance, the eternal substance.” Ibid. Compiled by W. L. Brisbin.

Restoring the Temple – Responsibility of Health Reform

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As a people we have been given the work of making known the principles of health reform.  There are some who think that the question of diet is not of sufficient importance to be included in their evangelistic work.  But such make a great mistake.  God’s word declares, ‘Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.’  1 Corinthians 10:31.  The subject of temperance in all its bearings, has an important place in the work of salvation.”  Counsels on Diet and Foods, 450.

Teach Reform Principles

“We should educate ourselves, not only to live in harmony with the laws of health, but to teach others the better way.  Many, even of those who profess to believe the special truths for this time, are lamentably ignorant with regard to health and temperance.  They need to be educated, line upon line, precept upon precept.  The subject must be kept fresh before them.  This matter must not be passed over as non-essential; for nearly every family needs to be stirred up on the question.  The conscience must be aroused to the duty of practicing the principles of true reform.  God requires that His people shall be temperate in all things.  Unless they practice true temperance, they will not, they cannot, be susceptible to the sanctifying influence of the truth. . . .

“As we near the close of time, we must rise higher and still higher upon the question of health reform and Christian temperance, presenting it in a more positive and decided manner.  We must strive continually to educate the people, not only by our words, but by our practice.  Precept and practice combined have a telling influence.

Responsibility of Leaders

“Our ministers should become intelligent on health reform.  They need to become acquainted with physiology and hygiene; they should understand the laws that govern physical life, and their bearing upon the health of mind and soul.

“Thousands upon thousands know little of the wonderful body God has given them or of the care it should receive; and they consider it of more importance to study subjects of far less consequence.  The ministers have a work to do here.  When they take a right position on this subject, much will be gained.  In their own lives and homes they should obey the laws of life, practicing right principles and living healthfully.  Then they will be able to speak correctly on this subject, leading the people higher and still higher in the work of reform.  Living in the light themselves, they can bear a message of great value to those who are in need of just such a testimony.

“There are precious blessings and a rich experience to be gained if ministers will combine the presentation of the health question with  all their labors in the churches.  The people must have the light on health reform.  This work has been neglected, and many are ready to die because they need the light which they ought to have and must have before they will give up selfish indulgence. . . .

“The work of educating in medical missionary lines is an advance step of great importance in awakening man to his moral responsibilities.  Had the ministers taken hold of this work in its various departments in accordance with the light which God has given, there would have been a most decided reformation in eating, drinking, and dressing.  But some have stood directly in the way of the advance of health reform.  They have held the people back by their indifferent or condemnatory remarks, or by pleasantries and jokes.  They themselves and a large number of others have been sufferers unto death, but all have not yet learned wisdom.

“It has been only by the most aggressive warfare that any advancement has been made.  The people have been unwilling to deny self, unwilling to yield the mind and will to the will of God; and in their own sufferings, and in their influence on others, they have realized the sure result of such a course.

Failure to Practice

“Why do some of our ministering brethren manifest so little interest in health reform?  It is because instruction on temperance in all things is opposed to their practice of self-indulgence.  In some places this has been the great stumbling block in the way of our bringing the people to investigate and practice and teach health reform.  No man should be set apart as a teacher of the people while his own teaching or example contradicts the testimony God has given His servants to bear in regard to diet, for this will bring confusion.  His disregard of health reform unfits him to stand as the Lord’s messenger.

“The light that the Lord has given on this subject in His word is plain, and men will be tested and tried in many ways to see if they will heed it.  Every church, every family, needs to be instructed in regard to Christian temperance.  All should know how to eat and drink in order to preserve health.  We are amid the closing scenes of this world’s history; and there should be harmonious action in the ranks of Sabbathkeepers.  Those who stand aloof from the great work of instructing the people upon this question, do not follow where the Great Physician leads the way.  ‘If any man will come after Me,’ Christ said, ‘let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’  Matthew 16:24.

Education at Home

“Parents should live more for their children, and less for society.  Study health subjects, and put your knowledge to a practical use.  Teach your children to reason from cause to effect.  Teach them that if they desire health and happiness, they must obey the laws of nature.  Though you may not see so rapid improvement as you desire, be not discouraged, but patiently and perseveringly continue your work.

“Teach your children from the cradle to practice self-denial and self-control.  Teach them to enjoy the beauties of nature, and in useful employments to exercise systematically all the powers of body and mind.  Bring them up to have sound constitutions and good morals, to have sunny dispositions and sweet tempers.  Impress upon their tender minds the truth that God does not design that we should live for present gratification merely, but for our ultimate good.  Teach them that to yield to temptation is weak and wicked; to resist, noble and manly.  These lessons will be as seed sown in good soil, and they will bear fruit that will make your hearts glad.

Selfish Indulgence

“There is a message regarding health reform to be borne in every church.  There is a work to be done in every school.  Neither principal nor teachers should be entrusted with the education of the youth until they have a practical knowledge of this subject.  Some have felt at liberty to criticize and question and find fault with health reform principles of which they know little by experience.  They should stand shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart, with those who are working in right lines.

“The subject of health reform has been presented in the churches; but the light has not been heartily received.  The selfish, health-destroying indulgences of men and women have counteracted the influence of the message that is to prepare a people for the great day of God.  If the churches expect strength, they must live the truth which God has given them.  If the members of our churches disregard the light on this subject, they will reap the sure result in both spiritual and physical degeneracy.  And the influence of these older church members will leaven those newly come to the faith.  The Lord does not now work to bring many souls into the truth, because of the church members who have never been converted, and those who were once converted, but who have backslidden.”  Ibid., 451–455.

Question – Is health reform really a part of the Gospel?

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Question

Is health reform really a part of the Gospel?

Answer

The principles of how to live healthfully are given to us to be a blessing. Is there anyone who really enjoys being sick or not feeling well or being in real pain and misery, which many times ends in premature death? “Only one lease of life is granted us; and the inquiry with every one should be, ‘How can I invest my powers so that they may yield the greatest profit? How can I do most for the glory of God and the benefit of my fellow men?’ For life is valuable only as it is used for the attainment of these ends.” Counsels on Health, 107.

The object of health reform is not just to give us better health, but to promote happiness, to give us clearer minds with which to think, and to prepare us for the heavenly kingdom. It is given in love for the human race that we might develop a character like that of Jesus.

From the very beginning of time here on this earth, Satan has been an enemy of God. The best way that he can fight against Him is to gain control of the human race. In the book Temperance, written by Ellen White, she states: “Satan is constantly on the alert to bring the race fully under his control. His strongest hold on man is through the appetite, and this he seeks to stimulate in every possible way.” Ibid., 13.

On the contrary, Christ is seeking the human race to become the subjects of heaven to be under the kingdom of God. He is seeking to help them to learn to be like Himself, which is the only way to true life and happiness. To do this we must learn to obey His rules and live like Him. One of the first things that Jesus did when He came to save us was to fast 40 days in the wilderness to gain strength to give us the power to overcome the temptation of appetite.

“We have been redeemed by a costly ransom. Only by the greatness of this ransom can we conceive of its results. On this earth, the earth whose soil has been moistened by the tears and the blood of the Son of God, are to be brought forth the precious fruits of Paradise. In the lives of God’s people the truths of His word are to reveal their glory and excellence. Through His people Christ is to manifest His character and the principles of His kingdom.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 296.

So, now, since we have the power of choice, we may choose to have Satan’s diet or the diet that has been chosen for us by our Heavenly Father. The results of our choice we must accept.

The Gospel includes the good news that Jesus is coming again to take us home to heaven. It is the instruction as to how to prepare for our heavenly home, so that we will be ready to fit into the society of heaven and be prepared to live throughout eternity with Jesus and the angels. Surely the health reform message is part of the good news.

“Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” Ibid. 69. The message of health reform is just part of the message that helps us to develop a character like Christ.

“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31.

Food for Life – Importance of Health Reform

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In the vision given me [Ellen White] in Rochester, New York, December 25, 1865, I was shown that our Sabbath keeping people have been negligent in acting upon the light which God has given in regard to the health reform; that there is yet a great work before us; and that, as a people, we have been too backward to follow in God’s opening providence, as he has chosen to lead us.

“I was shown that the work of health reform has scarcely been entered upon yet. While some feel deeply, and act out their faith in the work, others remain indifferent, and have scarcely taken the first step in reform. There seems to be in them a heart of unbelief, and as this reform restricts the lustful appetite, many shrink back. . . .

“In order to be fitted for translation, the people of God must know themselves. . . . The body should be servant to the mind, and not the mind to the body.

“Some have sneered at this work of reform, and have said it was all unnecessary; that it was an excitement to divert minds from present truth. They have said that matters were being carried to extremes. Such do not know what they are talking about. While men and women professing godliness are diseased from the crown of their head to the soles of their feet, while their physical, mental, and moral energies are enfeebled through gratification of depraved appetite and excessive labor, how can they weigh the evidences of truth, and comprehend the requirements of God? If their moral and intellectual faculties are beclouded, they cannot appreciate the value of the atonement or the exalted character of the work of God, nor delight in the study of his Word. . . .

“There are but few as yet who are aroused sufficiently to understand how much their habits of diet have to do with their health, their characters, their usefulness in this world, and their eternal destiny. I saw that it is the duty of those who have received the light from heaven, and have realized the benefit of walking in it, to manifest a greater interest for those who are still suffering for want of knowledge. Sabbath keepers who are looking for the soon appearing of their Saviour should be the last to manifest a lack of interest in this great work of reform. Men and women must be instructed, and ministers and people should feel that the burden of the work rests upon them to agitate the subject, and urge it home upon others.” Review and Herald, April 30, 1914.

Restoring the Temple – Extremes in Diet

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Many of the views held by Seventh-day Adventists differ widely from those held by the world in general. Those who advocate an unpopular truth should, above all others, seek to be consistent in their own life. They should not try to see how different they can be from others, but how near they can come to those whom they wish to influence, that they may help them to the positions they themselves so highly prize. Such a course will commend the truths they hold.

“Those who are advocating a reform in diet should, by the provision they make for their own table, present the advantages of hygiene in the best light. They should so exemplify its principles as to commend it to the judgment of candid minds.

“There is a large class who will reject any reform movement, however reasonable, if it lays a restriction upon the appetite. They consult taste, instead of reason and the laws of health.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 195.

Two Classes of Extremists

“Two classes have been presented before me: first, those who are not living up to the light which God has given them; secondly, those who are too rigid in carrying out their one-sided ideas of reform, and enforcing them on others. When they take a position, they stand to it stubbornly, and carry nearly everything over the mark.

“The first class adopted the reform because some one else did. They did not obtain a clear understanding of its principles for themselves. Many of those who profess the truth have received it because some one else did, and for their life they could not give the reason of their faith. This is why they are so unstable. Instead of weighing their motives in the light of eternity, instead of obtaining a practical knowledge of the principles underlying all their actions, instead of digging down to the bottom and building upon a right foundation for themselves, they are walking in the light of another’s torch, and will surely fail.

“The other class take wrong views of the reform. They adopt too meager a diet. They subsist upon a poor quality of food, prepared without reference to the nourishment of the system. It is important that food be prepared with care, so that the appetite, when not perverted, can relish it.” Ibid., 196.

Not Recommended

“Because we, from principle, discard the use of those things which irritate the stomach and destroy health, the idea should never be given that it is of little consequence what we eat. I do not recommend an impoverished diet. Many who need the benefits of healthful living, and from conscientious motives adopt what they believe to be such, are deceived by supposing that a meager bill of fare, prepared without painstaking, and consisting mostly of mushes, and so-called gems, heavy and sodden, is what is meant by a reformed diet. Some use milk and a large amount of sugar on mush, thinking that they are carrying out health reform. But the sugar and milk combined are liable to cause fermentation in the stomach, and are thus harmful. The free use of sugar in any form tends to clog the system, and is not unfrequently a cause of disease. Some think that they must eat only just such an amount, and just such a quality, and confine themselves to two or three kinds of food. But in eating too small an amount, and that not of the best quality, they do not receive sufficient nourishment.” Ibid., 196, 197.

“Because we from principle discard the use of meat, butter, mince pies, spices, lard, and that which irritates the stomach and destroys health, the idea should never be given that it is of but little consequence what we eat.” Ibid., 199.

“Food should be prepared with simplicity, yet with a nicety which will invite the appetite. You should keep grease out of your food. It defiles any preparation of food you may make. Eat largely of fruits and vegetables.” Ibid., 200.

Not a Test

“You are not to make a test for the people of God, upon the question of diet; for they will lose confidence in teachings that are strained to the farthest point of extension. The Lord desires His people to be sound on every point in health reform, but we must not go to extremes. . . .

“We are to be brought into connection with the masses. Should health reform be taught them in its most extreme form, harm would be done. We ask them to leave off eating meat and drinking tea and coffee. This is well. But some say that milk also should be given up. This is a subject that needs to be carefully handled. There are poor families whose diet consists of bread and milk, and, if they can get it, a little fruit. All flesh food should be discarded, but vegetables should be made palatable with a little milk or cream or something equivalent.” Ibid., 205.

“When the time comes that it is no longer safe to use milk, cream, butter, and eggs, God will reveal this. No extremes in health reform are to be advocated. The question of using milk and butter and eggs will work out its own problem. At present we have no burden on this line. Let your moderation be known unto all men.” Ibid., 206.

Health Reform, not Health Deform

“Now the enemy would push you into the opposite extreme if he could, to have a poverty-stricken diet. Be careful to keep level heads and sensible ideas. Seek wisdom from heaven and move understandingly. If you take extremely radical positions, you will be obliged to back down, and then however conscientious you may have been, you have lost confidence in your own sound judgment, and our brethren and unbelievers will lose confidence in you. Be sure to go no faster than you have positive light from God. Take no man’s ideas, but move intelligently in the fear of the Lord.” Ibid., 211.

Avoid Extremes

“You need not go into the water, or into the fire, but take the middle path, avoiding all extremes. Do not let it appear that you are one-sided, ill-balanced managers. Do not have a meager, poor diet. Do not let any one influence you to have the diet poverty-stricken. Have your food prepared in a healthful, tasteful manner; have your food prepared with a nicety that will correctly represent health reform.

“The great backsliding upon health reform is because unwise minds have handled it and carried it to such extremes that it has disgusted in place of converting people to it. I have been where these radical ideas have been carried out. Vegetables prepared with only water, and everything else in like manner. This kind of cookery is health deform, and there are some minds so constituted that they will accept anything that bears the features of rigorous diet or reform of any kind.” Ibid., 211, 212.

“Eat only plain, simple, wholesome food, and thank God constantly for the principles of health reform. In all things be true and upright, and you will gain precious victories.” Ibid., 208.

Ellen G. White (1827–1915) wrote more than 5,000 periodical articles and 40 books during her lifetime. Today, including compilations from her 50,000 pages of manuscript, more than 100 titles are available in English. She is the most translated woman writer in the entire history of literature, and the most translated American author of either gender. Seventh-day Adventists believe that Mrs. White was appointed by God as a special messenger to draw the world’s attention to the Holy Scriptures and help prepare people for Christ’s second advent.

Restoring the Temple – Health Reform and the Third Angel’s Message

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“The health reform is one branch of the great work which is to fit a people for the coming of the Lord. It is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is with the body.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 69.

“To make plain natural law, and urge the obedience of it, is the work that accompanies the third angel’s message, to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord.” Ibid.

Aids in Discerning Truth

“Ignorance is no excuse now for the transgression of law. The light shines clearly, and none need be ignorant, for the great God Himself is man’s instructor. All are bound by the most sacred obligations to God to heed the sound philosophy and genuine experience which He is now giving them in reference to health reform. He designs that the great subject of health reform shall be agitated, and the public mind deeply stirred to investigate; for it is impossible for men and women, with all their sinful, health-destroying, brain-enervating habits, to discern sacred truth, through which they are to be sanctified, refined, elevated, and made fit for the society of heavenly angels in the kingdom of glory. . . .

“If man will cherish the light that God in mercy gives him upon health reform, he may be sanctified through the truth, and fitted for immortality. But if he disregards that light, and lives in violation of natural law, he must pay the penalty.” Ibid., 70.

Entering Wedge

“When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart. When the third angel’s message is received in its fullness, health reform will be given its place in the councils of the conference, in the work of the church, in the home, at the table, and in all the household arrangements. Then the right arm will serve and protect the body.” Ibid., 73.

“Health reform is to be taught and practiced by our people. The Lord is calling for a revival of the principles of health reform. Seventh-day Adventists have a special work to do as messengers to labor for the souls and bodies of men.” Ibid., 76.

God’s Bountiful Provision

“Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet.” Ibid., 81.

“God is bringing His people back to His original design, that is, not to subsist upon the flesh of dead animals. . . .

“If meat is discarded, if the taste is not educated in that direction, if a liking for fruits and grains is encouraged, it will soon be as God in the beginning designed it should be. No meat will be used by His people.” Ibid., 82.

“In grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts are to be found all the food elements that we need. If we will come to the Lord in simplicity of mind, He will teach us how to prepare wholesome food free from the taint of flesh meat.” Ibid., 92.

“A plain diet, free from spices, and flesh meats, and grease of all kinds, would prove a blessing to you. . . .

“In order to render to God perfect service, you must have clear conceptions of His requirements. You should use the most simple food, prepared in the most simple manner, that the fine nerves of the brain be not weakened, benumbed, or paralyzed, making it impossible for you to discern sacred things, and to value the atonement, the cleansing blood of Christ, as of priceless worth.” Ibid., 83.

Fashionable Visiting

“Fashionable visiting is made an occasion of gluttony. Hurtful food and drinks are partaken of in such a measure as to greatly tax the organs of digestion. The vital forces are called into unnecessary action in the disposal of it, which produces exhaustion, and greatly disturbs the circulation of the blood, and, as a result, want of vital energy is felt throughout the system. The blessings which might result from social visiting, are often lost for the reason that your entertainer, instead of being profited by your conversation, is toiling over the cookstove, preparing a variety of dishes for you to feast upon. Christian men and women should never permit their influence to countenance such a course by eating of the dainties thus prepared. Let them understand that your object in visiting them is not to indulge the appetite, but that your associating together, and interchange of thoughts and feelings, might be a mutual blessing. The conversation should be of that elevated, ennobling character which could afterward be called to remembrance with feelings of the highest pleasure.

“Those who entertain visitors, should have wholesome, nutritious food, from fruits, grains, and vegetables, prepared in a simple, tasteful manner. Such cooking will require but little extra labor or expense, and, partaken of in moderate quantities, will not injure any one.” Ibid., 88, 89.

True Fasting

“The true fasting which should be recommended to all, is abstinence from every stimulating kind of food, and the proper use of wholesome, simple food, which God has provided in abundance. Men need to think less about what they shall eat and drink, of temporal food, and much more in regard to the food from heaven, that will give tone and vitality to the whole religious experience.” Ibid., 90.

Not a Matter of Indifference

“Because it is wrong to eat merely to gratify perverted taste, it does not follow that we should be indifferent in regard to our food. It is a matter of the highest importance. No one should adopt an impoverished diet. Many are debilitated from disease, and need nourishing, well-cooked food. Health reformers, above all others, should be careful to avoid extremes. The body must have sufficient nourishment. . . .

“In order to have good health, we must have good blood; for the blood is the current of life. It repairs waste, and nourishes the body. When supplied with the proper food elements and when cleansed and vitalized by contact with pure air, it carries life and vigor to every part of the system.” Ibid., 91.

Our Testimony

“Some of our people conscientiously abstain from eating improper food, and at the same time neglect to eat the food that would supply the elements necessary for the proper sustenance of the body. Let us never bear testimony against health reform by failing to use wholesome, palatable food in place of the harmful articles of diet that we have discarded. Much tact and discretion should be employed in preparing nourishing food to take the place of that which has constituted the diet of many families. This effort requires faith in God, earnestness of purpose, and a willingness to help one another. A diet lacking in the proper elements of nutrition brings reproach upon the cause of health reform. We are mortal, and must supply ourselves with food that will give proper sustenance to the body.” Ibid., 92.