Editions of Great Controversy--

THE WRITING OF THE BOOK

'THE GREAT CONTROVERSY'

 Vance Ferrell

22 — PEOPLE HELPED BY GREAT CONTROVERSY

"The ministers are opening up their tirade, and against Mrs. White in particular. But this is only hurting themselves . . I am placing Desire of Ages, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Christ Our Saviour in families; so, while the ministers are working against me, I will speak in my writings to the people. I believe souls will be converted to the truth. We are now turning them to the law and to the testimonies. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." —Letter 217,

Here are several incidents in Ellen's life in which in­dividuals have been helped through the reading of Great Controversy: In 1893, a non-Adventist minister attended an Adventist church service, and afterward spoke with Ellen: "This Sabbath was a most precious day to his soul; he said that he had never had a happier day in his life.

"He afterward desired an interview with me, we had a pleasant visit. His conversation was very interesting, and we had a precious season of prayer together. I believe that he is a servant of God. I gave him my books Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Steps to Christ. He seemed much pleased, said he wanted all the light he could get in order to meet the opponents of our faith. He was baptized before leaving for his home, and will return to present the truth to his own congregation." —Manuscript 4, 1893 (Evangelism, p. 277:1).

In early May 1994, Ellen, with a helper, visited the Radley family in Castle Hill, Australia. The wife was favorable to the Sabbath, but the husband was resisting the truth. Ellen received a vision in which she was told, "Go to Brother Radley, place your books before him, and this will save his soul."

"I visited with him, taking with me a few of my large books. I talked with him just as though he were with us. I talked of his responsibilities. I said, 'You have great responsibilities, my brother. Here are your neighbors all around you. You are accountable for everyone of them. You have a knowledge of the truth, and if you love the truth and stand in your integrity, you will win souls for Christ.' "He looked at me in a queer way, as much as to say, 'I do not think you know that I have given up the truth, that I have allowed my girls to go to dances and the Sunday School, that we do not keep the Sabbath.' But I did know it. However, I talked to him just at though he were with us.

" 'Now,' I said, 'we are going to help you to begin to work for your neighbors. I want to make you a present of some books.'

"He said, 'We have a library, from which we draw books. '

"I said, 'I do not see any books here. Perhaps you feel delicate about drawing from the library. I have come to give you these books, so that your children can read them, and this will be a strength to you.'

"I knelt down and prayed with him, and when we rose, the tears were rolling down his face as he said, 'I am glad you came to see me. I thank you for the books.'

"The next time I visited him, he told me that he had read part of Patriarchs and Prophets. He said, 'There is not one syllable I could change. Every paragraph speaks right to my soul.'

"I asked Brother Radley which of my large books he considered the most important. He said, 'I lend them all to my neighbors, and the hotelkeeper thinks that Great Controversy is the best. But,' he said, while his lips quivered, 'I think that Patriarchs and Prophets is best. It is that which pulled me out of the mire.' "—1901 General Con­ference Bulletin, pp. 84-85 (Evangelism, pp. 451—452).

Soon after, Brother Radley was baptized, along with his entire family, and united with a local congregation of believers. Several of the children later spent their lives in the work.

In 1896, Ellen wrote of a family at Dora Creek (near Avondale) who had accepted the truth after attending meetings and reading Great Controversy (Letter 167, 1896, written June 1, 1896).

In August 1990, as she was returning from Australia to America, Ellen read several letters handed to her as the group departed Sydney. One was from a convert who had expressed his gratitude for Great Controversy, for it was through that book that he came to God and into an acceptance of the Third Angel's Message. (See The Early Elmshaven Years, p. 519.)

Here is her experience with the head of the Women's Christian Temperance Organization, a nationwide anti­liquor group. (Dr. Merritt G. Kellogg was the brother of J.H. Kellogg and a very successfully non-drug-physician. He earlier helped found the Battle Creek Sanitarium, and, later still, the St. Helena Sanitarium.) Contrary to the pattern recommended today of sharing it "later," Ellen White was not afraid to give Great Controversy to anyone on first meeting them:

"Dr. M.G. Kellogg came to my tent to see if I would have an interview with the president and secretary of the W.C.T.U. We invited them to our tent, and we had a very pleasant visit. The president is a strict vegetarian, not having tasted meat for four years. She bears a clear countenance, which does credit to her abstemious habits. The secretary is a young woman. Both are ladies of intelligence. They manifest deep interest in all they have heard. They have made a request that I speak in the beautiful hall in which they hold their meetings, and they asked Brother Starr to write for their temperance paper.

"The president expressed an earnest desire that we should harmonize in the temperance work. 'Be assured,' they said, 'we shall enter every door open to us that we may let our light shine to others. ' They seemed highly gratified in seeing and hearing and being convinced that the fruits of the Spirit are possessed and revealed by this people. I gave each of them a copy of Christian Temperance, to one The Great Controversy, to the other Patriarchs and Prophets. "—Manuscript 2, 1894 (Temperance, p. 262).    

23 — THE PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

The Introduction to Great Controversy clearly explains the reason why it was written and the objectives that it will help fulfill in the lives of all willing to read and accept its message. You will find the Introduction at the front of the book. (In the 1888 edition, it is called the Author's Pre­face; and, in the 1911, it is titled The Introduction. This preface or introduction was not in the 1884 edition.)

The entire Introduction is invaluable. The basic content of the book is described in these two paragraphs:

"Through the illumination of the Holy Spirit, the scenes of the long continued conflict between good and evil, have been opened to the writer of these pages. From time to time I have been permitted to behold the workings, in dif­ferent ages, of the great controversy between Christ, the Prince of life, the author of salvation; and Satan, the au­thor of evil, the first transgressor of God's holy law."­[Great Controversy, p. 13, old edition: p. 10 (1888)].

"As the Spirit of God has opened to my mind the great truths of His Word and the scenes of the past and the fu­ture, I have been bidden to make known to others that which has thus been revealed to trace the history of the controversy in past ages, and especially so to present it as to shed a light on the fast—approaching struggle of the future. In these records we may see a foreshadowing of the conflict before us. Regarding them in the light of God's Word and by the illumination of His Spirit, we may see un­veiled the devices of the wicked one and the dangers which they must shun who would be found without fault before the lord at His corning." —Great Controversy, p. 11:2—3 [old edition, p. 9:2—31, 1888.

The seven objectives of the book are plainly stated in this powerful paragraph:

"To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and error; to reveal the wiles of Satan and the means by which he may be successfully resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great problem of evil, shedding such light on origin and the final disposition of sin as to make fully manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all His dealing with His creatures; and to show the holy, unchanging nature of the law is the object of the book. That through its influence souls may be delivered from the powers of darkness, and become 'partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;' to the praise of Him who loves us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest prayer of the writer. " —Great Controversy, p. xii (in current edition).

The above three quotations are worth reading and think­ing about quite a while.

  24 — THE MOST VALUABLE BOOK OF ALL

In 1905, after the 1884 and 1888 editions had been printed, Ellen wrote this:

"Great Controversy should be very widely circulated. It contains the story of the past, the present, and the future. In its outline of the closing scenes of this earth's history, it bears a powerful testimony in behalf of the truth. I am more anxious to see a wide circulation for this book than for any others I have written; for in the Great Controversy, the last message of warning to the world is given more distinctly than in any of my other books."—Letter 281, 1905 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 127).

You will find that most of her strong affirmations of that book were penned after 1888. That is not to say that the 1884 edition is not a good one also, but it clearly shows that the 1888 was not a bad one. And what about the 1911 edition? It is a mirror image of the 1888, plus some corrections, which do not affect the teachings and a number of changed historian statements, so references can be given with them.

Here are more of her expressions of confidence in that book, and the powerful good it can and will do when it is read and shared with others:

"We are warned to avoid the mistakes the Israelites made in stubbornly refusing to receive the warnings that came to them from God." —Letter 229, 1903.

"The results of the circulation of this book [Great Controversy] are not to be judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments of God. But a much larger number of those who read it will not take their position until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in it. The fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others will also come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord in the closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of God as the result of this agency."—Manuscript 31, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, pp. 128-129).

Here are statements about Great Controversy and similar books, which tell the facts about the great controversy between Christ and Satan:

"Many will depart from the faith and give heed to seducing spirits. Patriarchs and Prophets and Great Controversy are books that are especially adapted to those who have newly come to the faith, that they may be established in the truth. The dangers are pointed out that should be avoided by the church. Those who become thoroughly acquainted with the lessons in these books will see the dangers before them, and will be able to discern the plain, straight path marked out for them. They will be kept from strange paths. They will make straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way."—Colporteur Ministry, pp. 129-130 (Evangelism, p. 366).

"Let there be an interest awakened in the sale of these books. Their sale is essential, for they contain timely instruction from the Lord. They should be appreciated as books that bring to the people light that is especially needed just now. Therefore these books should be widely distributed. Those who make a careful study of the instruction contained in them, and will receive it as from the Lord, will be kept from receiving many of the errors that are being introduced. Those who accept the truth contained in these books will not be led into false paths." —Colporteur Ministry, p. 130.

"In Desire of Ages, Patriarchs and Prophets, Great Controversy, and in Daniel and Revelation there is precious instruction. These books must be regarded as of special importance, and every effort should be made to get them before the people."—Colporteur Ministry, p. 123.

"The larger books, Patriarchs and Prophets, Great Controversy, and Desire of Ages, should be sold everywhere. These books contain truth for this time—truth that is to be proclaimed in all parts of the world. Nothing is to hinder their sale." —Colporteur Evangelist, p. 35 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 124; Review, January 20, 1903).

"The light given was that Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation, Great Controversy, and Patriarchs and Prophets would make their way. They contain the very mes­sage the people must have, the special light God has given His people. The angels of God would prepare the way for these books in the hearts of the people." —Colporteur Ministry, pp. 123—124.

"Instruction has been given me that the important books containing the light that God has given regarding Satan's apostasy in heaven should be given a wide circulation just now; for through them the truth will reach many minds. Patriarchs and Prophets, Daniel and Revelation, and the Great Controversy are needed now as never before; they should be widely circulated because the truths they emphasize will open many blind eyes. . Many of our people have been blind to the importance of the very books that were most needed. Had tact and skill then been shown in the sale of these books, the Sunday-law movement would not be where it is today."—Colporteur Evangelist, p. 21 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 123; Review, February 16, 1905).

"Sister White is not the originator of these books. They contain the instruction that during her lifework God has been giving her. They contain the precious, comforting light that God has graciously given His servants to be given to the world. From their pages this light is to shine into the hearts of men and women, leading them to the Saviour. The Lord has declared that these books are to be scattered throughout the world. There is in them truth which to the receiver is a savor of life unto life. They are silent witnesses for God. In the past they have been the means in His hands of convicting and converting many souls. Many have read them with eager expectation, and by reading them, have been led to see the efficacy of Christ's atonement, and to trust in its power. They have been led to commit the keeping of their souls to their Creator, waiting and hoping for the coming of the Saviour to take His loved ones to their eternal home. In the future these books are to make the gospel plain to many others, revealing to them the way of salvation." ­Colporteur Ministry, p. 125 (Review, January 20, 1903).

"My brethren and sisters, work earnestly to circulate these books. Put your hearts into this work, and the blessing of God will be with you. Go forth in faith, praying that God will prepare hearts to receive the light." —Colporteur Evangelist, pp. 36-37 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126; Review, January 20, 1903).

"How many have read carefully Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and the Desire of Ages? I wish all to understand that my confidence in the light that God has given stands firm because I know that the Holy Spirit's power magnified the truth and made it honorable, saying, 'This is the way, walk ye in it.' In my books the truth is stated, barricaded by a thus saith the Lord. The Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart and mind as indelibly as the law was traced by the finger of God upon the tables of stone which are now in the ark to be brought forth in that great day when sentence will be pronounced against every evil, seducing science produced by the father of lies."—Letter 90, 1906 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126:2).

Here are additional statements:

“Canvassers should be secured to handle the books, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, Desire of Ages, Daniel and Revelation, and other books of like character, who have a sense of the value of the matter these books contain, and a realization of the work to be done to interest people in the truth. Special help, which is above all the supposed advantages of illustrations, will be given to such canvassers. Canvassers who are born again by the work of the Holy Spirit, will be accompanied by angels, who will go before them to the dwellings of the people, preparing the way for them."—Manuscript 131, 1899 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 88:1).

"The ministers (non-S.D.A.) are opening up their tirade, and against Mrs. White in particular. But this is only hurting themselves. . I am placing Desire of Ages, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Christ Our Saviour in families; so that while the ministers are working against me, I will speak in my writings to the people. I believe souls will be converted to the truth. We are now turning them to the law and to the testimonies. If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."—Letter 217, 1899 (Evangelism pp. 259:2 and 260:0).

Here are still more quotations:

"God gave me the light contained in Great Controversy and Patriarchs and Prophets, and this light was needed to arouse the people to prepare for the great day of God, which is just before us. These books contain God's direct appeal to the people. Thus He is speaking to the people in stirring words, urging them to make ready for His coming, The light God has given in these books should not be concealed, "—Manuscript 23, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 129).

"I do not demerit Bible Readings. It is a book, which will do a great amount of good, but it can never take the place the Lord designed that Volume Four should have in the world and among our people. I have spread before them the light given me of heaven in that book.

"It is a duty we owe to our people and to God, to send every ray of light given me of God, demanded at this time for every tongue and nation,"—Letter 25a, 1889.

"We are warned to avoid the mistakes the Israelites made in stubbornly refusing to receive the warnings that came to them from God," —Letter 229, 1903.

"The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or with­held must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith."—5 Testimonies, p. 463.

"The Lord has sent His people much instruction, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little. Little heed has been given to the Bible, and the Lord has given a lesser light to lead men and women to the greater light. Oh, how much good would be accomplished if the books containing this light were read with a determination to carry out the principles they contain! There would be a thousand fold greater vigilance, a thousand fold more self-denial, and resolute effort. And many more would now be rejoicing in the light of present truth." ­Colporteur Ministry, pp. 125-126 (Review, January 20, 1903).

"My brethren and sisters, work earnestly to circulate these books. Put your hearts into this work, and the blessing of God will be with you. Go forth in faith, praying that God will prepare hearts to receive the light." —Colporteur Evangelist, pp. 36-37 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126; Review, January 20, 1903).  

25 — THE 1907 DREAM

Ellen White had a very important dream on the night of March 2, 1907. That afternoon she had been counseling with S.N. Haskell and his wife, discussing evangelistic work in the Oakland area and their forthcoming journey to Massachusetts.

Retiring to bed afterward, Ellen was weary and in pain from arthritis, but at last fell asleep. At 9:30 p.m. she was awakened, free from pain, to a vision of loveliness. Afterward she slept again. In the extended dream which followed, these topics were presented: (1) She was shown the importance of reading and circulating widely the books about the great controversy message, especially those written by herself (9T, pp. 66-67). (2) In vivid contrast with the pure truth in those books were the errors in the worldly books, and in J.H. Kellogg's book, Living Temple (9T, pp. 66-69). (3) After this, she was shown the importance of printing and selling the important books, but not so cheaply as to drive the publishing house into closure, and not at an exorbitant price either (9T, pp. 69—75). (4) Other matters were also revealed.

Here are the portions of that dream which concern Great Controversy and similar books, as well as the price they should be sold at:

"About half past nine I attempted to turn myself, and as I did so, I became aware that my body was entirely free from pain. As l turned from side to side, and moved my hands, I experienced an extraordinary freedom and lightness that I cannot describe. The room was filled with light, a most beautiful, soft, azure light, and I seemed to be in the arms of heavenly beings.

"This peculiar light I have experienced in the past in times of special blessing, but this time it was more distinct, more impressive, and I felt such peace, peace so full and abundant no words can express it. I raised my­self into a sitting posture, and I saw that I was surrounded by a bright cloud, white as snow, the edges of which were tinged with a deep pink. The softest, sweetest music was filling the air, and I recognized the music as the singing of the angels. Then a Voice spoke to me, saying: 'Fear not; I am your Saviour. Holy angels are all about you.' " 'Then this is heaven,' I said, 'and now I can be at rest. I shall have no more messages to bear, no more misrep­resentations to endure. Everything will be easy now, and I shall enjoy peace and rest. Oh, what inexpressible peace fills my soul! Is this indeed heaven? Am l one of God's little children? and shall I always have this peace?'

"The Voice replied: 'Your work is not yet done.' "Again I fell asleep, and when I awoke I heard music, and I wanted to sing. Then someone passed my door, and I wondered if that person saw the light. After a time the light passed away, but the peace remained.

"After a while I fell asleep again. This time I seemed to be in a council meeting where our bookwork was being discussed. There were a number of our brethren present, leaders in our work, and Elder Haskell and his wife were there consulting together and with the brethren about the circulation of our books, tracts, and periodicals.

"Elder Haskell was presenting strong reasons why the books which contain the knowledge that has been communicated to Sister White —the books containing the special message to come to the world at this present time —should be more freely circulated. 'Why,' he inquired, 'do not our people appreciate and circulate more widely the books bearing the divine credentials? Why is not a specialty made of the books containing the warnings regarding Satan's work? Why do we not give greater effort to circulating the books that point out Satan's plans to counterwork the work of God, that uncover his plans and point out his deceptions? The moral evils of his deceptions are to be removed by opening the eyes of the people so that they shall discern the situation and the dangers of our times; so that they shall make diligent effort to lay hold by faith upon Christ and His righteousness.'

“A messenger from heaven stood in our midst, and he spoke words of warning and instruction. He made us clearly understand that the gospel of the kingdom is the message for which the world is perishing and that this message, as contained in our publications already in print and those yet to be issued, should be circulated among the people who are nigh and afar off."—9 Testimonies, pp. 65-67.

"The work of bookmaking is a grand and good work; but it has not always stood in the high and holy position that God designed it should occupy, because self has been interwoven with the work of some who have engaged in it. The bookwork should be the means of quickly giving the sacred light of present truth to the world. The publications that come forth from our presses today are to be of such a character as to strengthen every pin and pillar of the faith that was established by the Word of God and by the revelations of His Spirit.

"The truth that God has given for His people in these last days should keep them firm when there come into the church those who present false theories. The truth that has stood firm against the attacks of the enemy for more than half a century must still be the confidence and comfort of God's people.

"Our evidence to non professors that we have the truth of the Word of God will be given in a life of strict self-denial. We must not make a mockery of our faith, but ever keep before us the example of Him who, though He was the Prince of heaven, stooped to a life of self-denial and sacrifice to vindicate the righteousness of His Father's Word. Let us each resolve to do our best, that the light of our good works may shine forth to the world.

"Perfect agreement should exist in the plans laid for the publications of our books and periodicals, that the light which they contain may be quickly carried everywhere to the nominal churches and to the world. Much more should have been accomplished in the sale of our books than we see accomplished today.

"Our ministers should call upon the church members to let the truth triumph. 'Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.' Isaiah 60:1-3. Unity and love will accomplish wonderful things for the believers. Will not our churches arouse and give the last warning message to the world?"—9 Testimonies pp. 69-70.

"God designs that we shall learn lessons from the failures of the past. It is not pleasing to Him to have debts rest upon His institutions. We have reached the time when we must give character to the work by refusing to erect large and costly buildings. We are not to copy the mistakes of the past and become more and more involved in debt. We are rather to endeavor to clear off the indebtedness that still remains on our institutions. Our churches can help in this matter if they will. Those members to whom the Lord has given means can invest their money in the cause without interest or at a low rate of interest, and by their freewill offerings they can help to support the work. The Lord asks you to return cheerfully to Him a portion of the goods He has lent you, and thus become His almoners.

"Afterward we were in camp meetings and in large meetings in our churches, where the ministers presented clearly the perils of the times in which we live and the great importance of making haste in the circulation of our literature. In response to these appeals the brethren and sisters came forward and purchased many books. Some took a few, and some purchased large quantities. Most of the purchasers paid for the books they took. A few arranged to pay afterward.

"Because books were being sold at low prices, some being especially reduced for the occasion, many were purchased, and some by persons not of our faith. They said: 'it must be that these books contain a message for us. These people are willing to make sacrifices in order that we may have them, and we will secure them for ourselves and our friends.'

"But dissatisfaction was expressed by some of our own people. One said: 'A stop must be put to this work, or our business will be spoiled.' As one brother was carrying away an armful of books, a canvasser laid his hand upon his arm and said: 'My brother, what are you doing with so many books?' Then I heard the voice of our Counselor saying: 'Forbid them not. This is a work that should be done. The end is near. Already much time has been lost, when these books should have been in circulation. Sell them far and near. Scatter them like the leaves of autumn. This work is to continue without the forbiddings of anyone. Souls are perishing out of Christ. Let them be warned of His soon appearing in the clouds of heaven.'

"Some of the workers continued to appear much cast down. One was weeping and said: 'These are doing the publishing work an injustice by purchasing these books at so Iowa price; besides, this work is depriving us of some of the revenue by which our work is sustained.' The Voice replied: 'You are meeting with no loss. These workers who take the books at reduced prices could not obtain so ready sale for them except it be at this so-called sacrifice. Many are now purchasing for their friends and for themselves who otherwise would not think of buying.'

"Then instruction was given to Elder Haskell that in his anxiety to supply the people with the precious truth contained in his books, in his desire that all should feel that the books are worth more than they cost, and that all should be encouraged to give them a wide circulation, he was selling his books too cheap, and thus making his own burden too heavy.

"Our Counselor said: 'The books should be sold in such a way that the author will not be left barehanded and that the publishing house shall have a proper margin so that it will have means to carryon its work.' "—9 Testimonies pp. 71-73.

"Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought for God in the simplicity of faith and love. The value of service to God is measured by the spirit in which it is rendered, rather than by the length of time spent in labor.

"I am very desirous that the light contained in my books shall come to every soul possible, for God has sent the message for all. These books contain precious lessons in Christian experience. I would not dare forbid that these books be sold on special occasions at a low price, lest I should hinder the reading of the books, and thus with­hold the light from some soul who might be converted to the truth. I have no forbiddings to place on the work of circulating our books. Let the light be placed on the candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house."—9 Testimonies, pp. 7475.

26 — BASIC SECTIONS AND PRINCIPLES IN THE BOOK

 The acid test of whether the 1888 and 1911 editions are as valuable as the 1884 edition is to be found in the principles stated in these editions. If an uninspired writer wrote any of its chapters, we would find clear evidence of this in the changed viewpoints, concepts, and principles.

Yet we find no such evidence. The editions all read alike. This is because they were all written by the same hand.

Single-sentence chapter summaries: Here is a sample single-summary listing of principles for each of the first four chapters of Great Controversy:

Chapter 1 . The Destruction of Jerusalem: Disaster came because they obeyed men instead of God and His Word.

Chapter 2 . Persecution In the First Centuries: The one group received salvation because they obeyed God and His Word.

Chapter 3. The Apostasy: The other class went into ever deeper apostasy because they disobeyed God and His Word.

Chapter 4. The Waldenses: This people received divine protection and human persecution because they obeyed God and His Word.

Try writing single-line summaries of the other chapters in the book. Ask your friends to do it also; then read them aloud, compare, and discuss.

Basic principles In Chapter One: Here is a simple list of some underlying principles in the first chapter, The De­struction of Jerusalem:

17:1b,18:1b When men do not return to God in repentance and obedience, destruction is their final end.

18:1-19:0 An astounding sacrifice had been provided to save them through Christ.

19:1 Repeatedly, through inspired prophets, God had called and waited for a proper response.

19:2-21:0 Finally, Christ personally came and they slew Him.

21:0-22:0 The apostasy of Israel brought upon them a host of problems.

22:1-23:0 Jerusalem is but a symbol of the greater ca­lamities and destruction that will ultimately come upon the world for having rejected Christ.

23: 1-25:1 Their very temple, the structural wonder of the world, had been their greatest pride; yet, because of their apostasy, it would be torn down.

25:2-26:0 In Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, Christ presented a brief outline of future apostasy and judg­ments.

26:1-27:2 Jerusalem, although apparently impregnable, would be destroyed because of its apostasy.

27:328:0 The sentence of doom was mercifully delayed that they might be given additional time to repent. During that final probationary time, the children con­tinued to share in the sins and guilt of their forefathers.

28:1-29:1 God withdrew His protection because of their sins and stubborn resistance. Those very evil qual­ities brought on their destruction; yet, even to the end, they blindly believed they were still serving God! 29:2-30:1 Warning signs and messages were given to the people before their end.

30:2-31:0 The faithful in Israel heeded the warnings and escaped the final destruction. 31:1-36:0 A description of the final crisis and destruction. 36:1 All this stands as a solemn warning to us today.

It is only God's protection that keeps us from satanic dominance. But, when the limits of transgression are passed, men are given up to the control they want ­that of Satan. Then the wicked cooperate with Satan in destroying themselves.

36:2-37:0 The entire wicked world will, because of ever deepening sin, soon pass under the control of Satan—and this will bring on the final desolations. 37:1 But, through it all, God's faithful ones will be secure, protected by heavenly angels.

37:2-38:0 Carefully consider these principles and warnings, for the end is drawing near.

38:1 Unfortunately, as did the Jews, the world in these last days will ignore the warnings, even down to the final destruction.

Chapter 1 is the introductory chapter to the entire book. It sets the tone for all that follows. The entire book is one vast warning from history and Scriptural principles, given to prepare men today for coming events.

Many other principles are delineated in this book. Search for them and write them out. As you look, note whether you find even one false principle in any of the editions—earlier or later. Not one will be found! The God of heaven has protected this, His special book.

Basic subdivisions of the book: Great Controversy can be divided into several subsections. They can be split in a variety of ways:

1 — Historical chapters — chapters 1-17 (pp. 17-316)

2 — Millerite chapters — chapters 18-22 (pp. 317-408)

3 — Doctrinal chapters — chapters 23-34, 37 (pp. 409-562, 593-602)

4 — Final-event chapters — chapters 36, 38-42 (pp. 582-­592, 603-678)

Although chapter 37 is actually a doctrinal chapter, it was placed within the closing-events chapters to emphasize its urgent importance. The message of that chapter is (1) we must never consider the words of any man, organization, or government to be more important than Scripture and obedience to it, and (2) the final controversies and deceptions will be over exactly that point!

But there are other subdivisions which could be used.

Here is a more extended one (including some overlap):

1 — Introduction — chapter 1 (pp. 17-38)

2 — Lessons from pre-Reformation history — chapters 2-6 (pp. 39-119)

3 — Lessons from the Reformation — chapters 7-14 (pp. 120­-264)

4 — Post-Reformation effects and apostasy — chapters 15­17 (pp. 265-316)

5 — The Millerite Movement — chapters 18-22 (pp. 317-408)

 6 — The Sanctuary Message — chapters 23-24, 28 (pp. 409-­432, 479-491)

7 — Importance of the Law of God — chapters 25-29 (pp. 433-504)

8 — Satan and his methods of operation — chapters 29-34 (pp. 492-562)

9 — Truth and error about death — chapters 33-34 (pp. 531-­562)

10 — Final events — chapters 35-42 (pp. 563-678)

Correlating Great Controversy to Daniel and Revelation: Back in late 1979, the present writer typeset much of Great Controversy and placed it into 11x17 tracts (our 16-tract Great Controversy Series).

As the task was concluding, one evening the thought came to mind to select only the choicest areas and shorten it all to five tracts, dealing with the most crucial points in the book. It was typeset, and is now available in three formats: (1) The five-tract Final Crisis Series, (2) the back half of our small paperback, Mark of the Beast, and (3) the back half of our Steps to Christ book, Shelter in the Storm.

As the five-part tract was being completed, it seemed that the crucial chapters of Revelation 12 to 14 ought to correspond to it in some way. Checking this out, it was discovered that the two matched!

Of course, Great Controversy would correspond with part of this, since much of it is represented in those basic materials. These crucial sections which begin with the Origin of Evil chapter and focus on the Roman apostasy, Sabbath message, importance of obedience to God's law, Revelation 13 and 14, state of the dead, spiritism error, and final crisis dovetail nicely into the messages of Re­velation 12 to 14. Here it is:

Bringing a Planet into Rebellion: CRISIS OF THE AGES. A sweeping presentation of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. The Groundwork for the Mark. Revelation 12: 1-12 (Great Controversy, chapter 29).

Out of the Dark Centuries: THE FORMING OF THE BEAST. The gradual development of the Beast of Revelation 13. The Making of the Mark. Revelation 12:13-17 and 13: 1-2 (Great Controversy, chapters 2­15).

Laying Plans to Destroy: PREPARING FOR THE MARK. The crisis we face today and what it is leading us to. The Meaning of the Mark. Revelation 13:2-12 and 14:6-12 (Great Controversy, chapters 25-28).

Supernatural Power to Enslave: TALKING WITH DEV­ILS. The wonder-working power that is gradually appearing. The Force behind the Mark. Revelation 13:13-15 and 16:12-14 (Great Controversy, chapters 30-34).

By Threat or by Violence: ENTERING THE FINAL CRI­SIS. Rolling back the curtain on the end of time. The Giving of the Mark. Revelation 13:16-18 and 18:1-7 (Great Controversy, chapters 36-42).

It is a fascinating thought to consider that Great Controversy is actually a commentary on the basic chapters of Daniel and Revelation! Most of the book is concerned with Daniel 7 and Revelation 12 through 14 while part of Great Controversy (not included in the above brief five part tract set) deals with Daniel 8 and 9 (the sanctuary and Investigative Judgment chapters).

Recognizing this close correlation would help our peo­ple produce better interpretations of Daniel and Revelation. In our time, some of the analytic studies of those two books, done by our people show little correlation with the principles and events in Great Controversy. Instead, too much effort is made to squeeze the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation into a few short years at the close of time.

27 — IN CONCLUSION

 We know that the purest truth is to be found in the Spirit of Prophecy writings. Along with the Bible, they are the books most needed by this final generation. But, among them, Great Controversy is the most important book which she wrote. It should receive special attention when we select those books we will circulate. In conclusion, let us read again three statements which we quoted earlier:

"Great Controversy should be very widely circulated. It contains the story of the past, the present, and the future. In its outline of the closing scenes of this earth's history, it bears a powerful testimony in behalf of the truth. I am more anxious to see a wide circulation for this book than for any others I have written; for in the Great Controversy, the last message of warning to the world is given more distinctly than in any of my other books."—Letter 281, 1905 (Colporteur Ministry, p. 127).

The full impact of that book will not be realized until later:

“The results of the circulation of this book (Great Controversy] are not to be judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments of God. But a much larger number of those who read it will not take their position until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in it. The fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others will also come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord in the closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of God as the result of this agency."—Manuscript 31, 1890 (Colporteur Ministry, pp. 128-129).

There are seven special reasons why Great Controversy was written:

"To unfold the scenes of the great controversy between truth and error; to reveal the wiles of Satan and the means by which he may be successfully resisted; to present a satisfactory solution of the great problem of evil, shedding such light on the origin and the final disposition of sin as to make fully manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all His dealing with His creatures; and to show the holy, unchanging nature of the law is the object of the book. That through its influence souls may be delivered from the powers of darkness, and become 'partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;' to the praise of Him who loves us, and gave Himself for us, is the earnest prayer of the writer."—Great Controversy, p. xii (in current edition).

Clearly, there is work to be done. Soon the final crisis will be upon us.

"When the storm of God's wrath breaks upon the world, it will be a terrible revelation for souls to find that their house is being swept away because it is built upon the sand. Let the warning be given them before it is too late. We should now feel the responsibility of laboring with intense earnestness to impart to others the truths that God has given for this time. We cannot be too much in earnest."—6 Testimonies, p. 16.

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