A statement attributed to Mrs. White and
bearing various source references such as Review and Herald, 1890, 1898, or
1912, to the effect that Christ's last mediatorial work will be in behalf of
youth who have wandered from the fold, has not been traced to any Ellen G. White
source. Inquirers are directed to the following statements: "When the storm
of persecution really breaks upon us, . . . many who have strayed from the fold
will come back to follow the great Shepherd" (
Testimonies for the Church,
vol. 6, p. 401). "The love of God still yearns over the one who has chosen
to separate from Him, and He sets in operation influences to bring him back
to the Father’s house. . . A golden chain, the mercy and compassion of
divine love, is passed around every imperiled soul" (
Christ’s
Object Lessons, p. 202). "Heaven is waiting and yearning for the return
of the prodigals who have wandered far from the fold. Many of those who have
strayed away may be brought back by the loving service of God’s children"
(
In Heavenly Places, p. 10).