Parallel to Ellen White's emphasis of Christ, the living Word of God, was
her concern with God's Written Word--the Scriptures. In her first book (1851)
she wrote: "I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of
your faith and practice" (Early Writings, p. 78). Ellen White
exalted the Bible throughout her ministry as the revealed will of God, providing
knowledge leading to a saving relationship with Jesus. "In His Word,"
she declared, "God has committed to men the knowledge necessary for
salvation. The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted as an authoritative,
infallible revelation of His will. They are the standard of character, the
revealer of doctrines, and the test of experience" (The Great
Controversy, p. vii). Ellen White saw her function as pointing people to the
Bible, "a lesser light to lead men and women to the greater light" (Colporteur
Ministry, p. 125). She believed personal Bible study was of the utmost
importance for every Christian, and especially so in the closing days of earth's
history.