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By Arthur L. White
Inquiries have been received at the Ellen G. White Estate office about
materials from the pen of Mrs. White that may bear on the question of using
skits, plays, or other types of dramatic programs in Seventh-day Adventist
institutions. The Ellen White counsels discussing this question deal with
several situations. In so doing, principles are enumerated that should still
serve as guidelines for Adventists today.
Throughout the Spirit of Prophecy writings, God has given through Ellen
White principles to help us determine what we should do. He then allows us the
freedom to best work out our own actions in harmony with these principles. In
so doing, it is important to remember that God always points us to the ideal.
His supreme desire always is that we reach our maximum spiritually, and in
every other way that affects our eternal salvation. This is easy to forget in
an increasingly secular world. With other criteria for success continually
bombarding us from all sides, often even the church finds it difficult to keep
in mind its spiritual priorities.
Being diplomatically correct, or doing what seems expedient to gain
immediate attention, all too often supersedes doing what is spiritually correct
and what in terms of eternity will most effectively impact lives for God.
Toward this latter goal Ellen White always sought to point the readers of her
writings. This included the proper use of dramatic productions in our Adventist
institutions.
A survey of these counsels fails to reveal an across-the-board condemnation
of all dramatic productions. In other words, Ellen White does not condemn a
program just because it may be dramatized. In this respect, counsels touching
dramatic productions are much like those pertaining to sports. Interestingly,
both subjects are treated in two statements of caution.
Mrs. White did not condemn the "simple exercise of playing ball"
(AH 499), but as she enumerated the principles involved, she pointed out the
grave perils that usually accompany sports activities. Likewise, Mrs. White did
not condemn the simple enacted program put on by the Battle Creek Sabbath
school in 1888, but in several places she clearly points out the many and
almost sure perils that often accompany "plays" and "theatrical
programs."
It would then appear that the questions relating to both sports and dramatic
productions in SDA institutions must be
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settled on the basis of fundamental principles rather than on a simple
"yes" or "no." This poses a real challenge, one that calls
for a careful analysis of the principles involved, plus a determination to be
guided by them. If Adventist young people can be taught to understand and apply
Christian principles in their personal lives, they will be far ahead of many
adults who, tragically, never have learned that the life of the Christian is
guided not by arbitrary Do's or Don'ts, but by principle.
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Visual presentations have long been known to be an effective means of
communication. They were often used by God Himself when enlightening His
prophets. Many times in scripture a prophet would preface his description of a
scene shown him by God with the words, "I saw." Ellen White commented
on this fact while in Europe where she had to meet some fanatics who were
claiming pictures are prohibited by the second commandment, so should be
destroyed:
"The second commandment prohibits image worship; but God Himself
employed pictures and symbols to represent to His prophets lessons which He
would have them give to the people, and which could thus be better understood
than if given in any other way. He appealed to the understanding through the
sense of sight. Prophetic history was presented to Daniel and John in symbols,
and these were to be represented plainly upon tables, that he who reads might
understand."--2SM 319, 320.
The Ellen G. White reference is well illustrated in Ezekiel's
experience in which the power of God was dramatized:
"At one time the prophet Ezekiel was in vision set down in the
midst of a large valley. Before him lay a dismal scene. Throughout its whole
extent the valley was covered with the bones of the dead. The question was
asked, 'Son of man, can these bones live?' The prophet replied,
'O Lord God, Thou knowest.' What could the might and power of man
accomplish with these dead bones? The prophet could see no hope of life being
imparted to them. But as he looked, the power of God began to work. The
scattered bones were shaken, and began to come together, 'bone to his
bone,' and were bound together by sinews. They were covered with flesh,
and as the Lord breathed upon the bodies thus formed, 'the breath came
into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great
army.'"--4BC 1165.
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As is so often the case, something that may be effective for good when
rightly used can also, if wrongly employed, be effective for evil, even to the
point where the rightful use may have to be curtailed. Note in the description
of Satan's work in the world generally that drama is listed first among
the "amusements" that Satan uses to destroy souls.
"Many of the amusements popular in the world today, even with
those who claim to be Christians, tend to the same end as did
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those of the heathen. There are indeed few among them that Satan does not
turn to account in destroying souls. Through the drama he has worked for ages
to excite passion and glorify vice. The opera, with its fascinating display and
bewildering music, the masquerade, the dance, the card table, Satan employs to
break down the barriers of principle and open the door to sensual indulgence.
In every gathering for pleasure where pride is fostered or appetite indulged,
where one is led to forget God and lose sight of eternal interests, there Satan
is binding his chains about the soul."--PP 459 (1890).
A decade earlier in the Testimonies, sensational dramas were pointed
out as preoccupying the minds of men and women and thus hindering their
reception of the message of truth:
"The world is teeming with errors and fables. Novelties in the
form of sensational dramas are continually arising to engross the mind, and
absurd theories abound which are destructive to moral and spiritual
advancement."--4T 415 (1880).
The third E. G. White statement we quote here describes the welfare of the
Battle Creek College students in the early days before dormitories were
provided. At this time students were living in the homes of families residing
nearby. This statement involves the legitimate theater, for it was penned in
1881, long before motion pictures were invented. The perils of "theatrical
amusements" are clearly enumerated and fundamental principles outlined.
"Among the most dangerous resorts for pleasure is the theater.
Instead of being a school of morality and virtue, as is so often claimed, it is
the very hotbed of immorality. Vicious habits and sinful propensities are
strengthened and confirmed by these entertainments. Low songs, lewd gestures,
expressions and attitudes, deprave the imagination and debase the morals. Every
youth who habitually attends such exhibitions will be corrupted in principle.
There is no influence in our land more powerful to poison the imagination, to
destroy religious impressions, and to blunt the relish for the tranquil
pleasures and sober realities of life than theatrical amusements. The love for
these scenes increases with every indulgence, as the desire for intoxicating
drink strengthens with its use. The only safe course is to shun the theater,
the circus, and every other questionable place of amusement."--4T 652, 653.
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As the number of Seventh-day Adventists residing in Battle Creek steadily
increased, and as the size of our various church institutions grew, from time
to time we found ourselves faced with the question of dramatic productions.
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The sanitarium with its large number of non-Adventist guests was faced with
the problem of entertaining them. The non-Adventist institution in Dansville,
New York,
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under the management of Dr. James C. Jackson had encouraged
"plays" as being beneficial to the patients. (See 3T 172.) But Ellen
White gave firm counsel that this type of entertainment should not come into
our sanitarium at Battle Creek. This counsel appeared in 1881 in an article
entitled "Position and Work of the Sanitarium," but its warnings are
by no means limited to the sanitarium:
"Those who bear the responsibility at the sanitarium should be
exceedingly guarded that the amusements shall not be of a character to lower
the standard of Christianity, bringing this institution down upon a level with
others and weakening the power of true godliness in the minds of those who are
connected with it. Worldly or theatrical entertainments are not essential for
the prosperity of the sanitarium or for the health of the patients. The more
they have of this kind of amusements, the less will they be pleased unless
something of the kind shall be continually carried on. The mind is in a fever
of unrest for something new and exciting, the very thing it ought not to have.
And if these amusements are once allowed, they are expected again, and the
patients lose their relish for any simple arrangement to occupy the time. But
repose, rather than excitement, is what many of the patients need.
"As soon as these entertainments are introduced, the
objections to theatergoing are removed from many minds, and the plea that moral
and high-toned scenes are to be acted at the theater breaks down the last
barrier. Those who would permit this class of amusements at the sanitarium
would better be seeking wisdom from God to lead these poor, hungry, thirsting
souls to the Fountain of joy, and peace, and happiness. . . .
"The managers of the sanitarium may as well conclude at once
that they will never be able to satisfy that class of minds that can find
happiness only in something new and exciting. To many persons this has been the
intellectual diet during their lifetime; there are mental as well as physical
dyspeptics."--4T 577-579.
Unfortunately, no information is now available as to the precise nature of
the "theatrical entertainments" being given at the sanitarium to
which Ellen White is here referring. So her statement must be read and
understood in the context of the chapter itself.
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At the same time, 1880-1881, in an attempt to provide cultural programs for
our church members, "literary societies" were formed at Battle Creek
and at some other places. Dramatic productions soon became part of the program.
The January 4, 1881, issue of the Review and Herald contained an article
from Mrs. White reporting on the problems with which the societies were soon
confronted:
"In every case where a literary society has been established
among our people, its influence has proved to be unfavorable to religious life,
and has led to backsliding from God. This has been tried at Battle Creek and in
other places, and the result has ever been the same."
Then she set forth the crux of the problem:
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"The purposes and objects which lead to the formation of
literary societies may be good; but unless wisdom from God shall control these
organizations, they will become a positive evil. Various entertainments are
introduced to make the meetings interesting and attractive for worldlings, and
thus the exercises of the so-called literary society too often degenerate into
demoralizing theatrical performances, and cheap nonsense. All these
gratify the carnal mind, that is at enmity with God; but they do not
strengthen the intellect nor confirm the morals. Little by little the spiritual
element is ruled out by the irreligious, and the effort to harmonize principles
which are antagonistic in their nature proves a decided failure. When
God's people voluntarily unite with the worldly and unconsecrated, and
give them the pre- eminence, they will be led away from him by the unsanctified
influence under which they have placed themselves.
"Many literary societies are in reality young theaters on a
cheap scale, and they create in the youth a taste for the stage."--RH Jan.
4, 1881.
The entire article, now currently available, may be read with profit. See
Ellen G. White Review and Herald Articles (Facsimile Reprint), Vol. 1.
pp. 224, 225. Significant excerpts appear as Appendix
A.
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Later, Ellen White dealt with the impact of acts and plays in SDA lyceums
and literary societies. In so doing she repeated some of the counsel of the
1881 Review article just quoted, and then broadened her scope. She
deplored the fact that often individuals of "short religious
experience" take the lead. Then "Satan uses men as his agents to
suggest, to lead out, to propose different acts and a variety of amusing things
which give no strength to the morals or elevation to the mind, but are wholly
worldly. Soon the religious element is dropped, and the irreligious elements
take the lead."--2MR 244 (See Appendix B).
The result was that "low, cheap matters are brought in which are not
elevating or instructive but only amuse." "The mind" was led
"away from serious reflection, away from God, away from heaven."
(2MCP 688, 245.) She counseled:
"If your lyceums and literary societies would be made an
opportunity for searching the Bible, it would be far more an intellectual
society than it can ever become through the attention being turned to
theatrical performances. What high and noble truths the mind may fasten upon
and explore in God's Word! . . .
"Those who compose these societies, who profess to love and
reverence sacred things, and yet allow the mind to come down to the
superficial, to the unreal, to the simple, cheap, fictitious acting, are doing
the devil's work just as surely as they look upon and unite with these
scenes."--2MR 246.
Turn to Appendix B, for the full statement
depicting the gradual compromising and "vacillating between duty and the
world," including the final results.
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Early Wednesday morning, December 26, 1888, Ellen G. White wrote about a
Christmas program that she had attended the night before put on by the Battle
Creek Sabbath School children. It was a simple dramatized program featuring a
lighthouse, children wearing costumes, and speeches, poems and songs. Ella M.
White, Mrs. White's six year old granddaughter, was in the program,
dressed to represent an angel. Ellen White's entire communication appears
as Appendix D.
It is significant that the counsel given to the man who organized the
program relates to how the features of the program could have been made more
effective, but there was no condemnation of the program itself just because it
contained enacted scenes. Rather, Ellen White commented, "I was pleased
with the lighthouse. The part acted by the children was good. The reading was
appropriate."--19MR 300.
At the same time, she made certain observations:
"The singing was after the order we would expect it to be in
any theatrical performance, but not one word to be distinguished. Certainly the
tempest-tossed ship would be wrecked upon the rocks if there were no more light
coming from the lighthouse than was seen in the exercises. I must say I was
pained at these things, so out of order with the very work of reformation we
were trying to carry forward in the church and with our institutions that I
should have felt better if I had not been present. This was an occasion that
should have been gotten up not only for the Sabbath school children, but words
should have been spoken that would have deepened the impression of a necessity
of seeking for the favor of that Saviour who hath loved them and gave Himself
for them. If [only] the precious hymns had been sung, "Rock of ages, cleft
for me, let me hide myself in Thee," and "Jesus lover of my soul, let
me to Thy bosom fly, while the billows near me roll, while the tempest still is
high." Whose souls were inspired with new and fresh zeal for the Master in
those songs sung whose virtue was in the different performances of the
singer?"--2MR 236 (Appendix D).
Then she asked some very pertinent questions regarding the program,
questions that still would be well to ask regarding every planned dramatic
production today:
"Will it make those who acted their part in it more
spiritually minded? Will it increase their sense of obligation to our heavenly
Father who sent His Son into the world at such an infinite sacrifice to save
fallen man from utter ruin? Was the mind awakened to grasp God because of His
great love wherewith He has loved us?"--Ibid. (Appendix D).
If the fact that there was acting in the program was in itself sinful, that
certainly would have been made plain. The counsel, rather, related to content
and the overall effect on the players.
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This experience would seem to indicate that there is a proper use of skits
or plays dedicated to explaining the love of God and the way to salvation.
Consecrated individuals are motivated by their service to God and not
self-aggrandizement. Also, this does not negate the counsel that Seventh-day
Adventist evangelists should refrain from using "theatrical display,"
in their work.--See Appendix E, "The Evangelist
and Theatrical Display."
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In 1898 Ellen G. White sent to the leaders of the church a manuscript
entitled "To Every Man His Work" in which she deals with the proper
use of the talents entrusted to us. The talent of communication was treated at
length and in a very enlightening manner. Mrs. White pointed out that this
talent might be used to serve self or to serve Christ.
"If we regard the advantages given to us as our own, to be
used according to our pleasures to make a display and create a sensation, the
Lord Jesus is put to shame by the characters of His professed followers."--E. G. White, MS 142, 1898 (See RH June 21, 1898.)
Then she asked:
"Can you glorify God by being educated to represent characters
in plays, and to amuse the audience with fables? Has not the Lord given you
intellect to be used to His name's glory in proclaiming the gospel of
Christ." If you desire a public career, there is a work you may do. Help
the class you represent in plays. Come to the reality. The Lord has given
evidence of His love for the world."--Ibid.
One key point, almost hidden, is worth pondering.
"All who desire a place of distinction have an opportunity to
wear the yoke of Christ."--Ibid.
She urged that the media of communication be employed to communicate "a
knowledge of Christ," not for the glorification of self. See Appendix C
for fuller statement.
Training in "pride and a love of display" that leads to
self-aggrandizement, may start at a very young age, fostered even by the
Sabbath School program. Warned Ellen White in 1893:
"In the Sabbath school, men and women have been accepted as
officers and teachers, who have not been spiritually minded, and had no live
interest in the work committed to their care; but matters can be set in order
only through the aid of the Holy Spirit. The same evil has existed for years as
now exists in our churches. Formality, pride, and love of display have taken
the place of true piety and humble godliness.
"We might see a different order of things should a number
consecrate themselves wholly to God, and then devote their talents
to
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the Sabbath school work ever advancing in knowledge, and educating
themselves so that they would be able to instruct others as to the best methods
to employ in the work; but it is not for the workers to seek for methods by
which they can make a show, consuming time in theatrical performances and
musical display, for this benefits no one. It does no good to train the
children to make speeches for special occasions. They should be won to Christ,
and instead of expending time, money, and effort to make a display, let the
whole effort be made to gather sheaves for the harvest."--FE 253.
A similar quotation makes the point even more forcefully:
"Pride, self-esteem, and boldness are marked characteristics
of the children of this day, and they are the curse of the age. When I see this
un-Christlike, unlovely manifestation on every side, and then see parents and
teachers seeking to display the ability and proficiency of their children and
[students], I am pained to the heart; for I know that it is exactly the
opposite course from the one that should be pursued."--CSW 46.
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In 1900 Ellen White draws aside the curtain in an article in the Review
and Herald to show the manner that Satan employs to infatuate youth
"in games and theatrical performances." He confuses the senses of
"the young" "while light shines all about them." Notice
Ellen White's solemn warning:
"The public opinion is that manual labor is degrading. But men
may play as hard as they like at cricket, or baseball, or in pugilistic games,
without being degraded! Satan is delighted when he sees human beings using
their physical and mental powers in that which does not educate, which is not
useful, which does not help them to be a blessing to those who need their help.
While they are becoming experts in games that are not of the least value to
themselves or others, Satan is playing the game of life for their souls, taking
from them the precious talents God has given them, and placing in their stead
his own evil attributes, which not only destroy them, but through their
influence destroy those who have any connection with them.
"Satan's work is to lead men to ignore God, to so engross
and absorb the mind that God will not be in their thoughts. The education they
have received has been of a character to confuse the mind, and eclipse the true
light. Satan does not wish the people to have a knowledge of God; and if he can
set in operation games and theatrical performances that will so confuse the
senses of the young that human beings will perish in darkness while light
shines all about them, he is well pleased."--RH March 13, 1900.
See Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students, pp. 274, 275 for a
paralleling statement.
For the Christian who is seeking to live by principle, Jesus Christ is their
example in all things. Ellen White wrote:
"I have not been able to find one instance where He educated
His disciples to engage in amusements of football or pugilistic games to obtain
physical exercise, or in
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theatrical performances, and yet Christ was our pattern in all
things."--FE 229.
A sound guiding principle to keep in mind when dealing with questions of the
kind we have been studying is found in Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 360:
"Our example and influence must be a power on the side of
reform. We must abstain from any practice which will blunt the conscience or
encourage temptation. We must open no door that will give Satan access to the
mind of one human being formed in the image of God."
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By Mrs. E. G. White
It is often asked, Are literary societies a benefit to our youth? To answer
this question properly, we should consider not only the avowed purpose of such
societies, but the influence which they have actually exerted, as proved by
experience. The improvement of the mind is a duty which we owe to ourselves, to
society, and to God. But we should never devise means for the cultivation of
the intellect at the expense of the moral and the spiritual. And it is only by
the harmonious development of both the mental and the moral faculties that the
highest perfection of either can be attained. Are these results secured by
literary societies as they are generally conducted?
As the question was first stated, it would appear very narrow-minded to
answer in the negative; but in every case where a literary society has been
established among our people, its influence has proved to be unfavorable to
religious life, and has led to backsliding from God. This has been tried in
Battle Creek and in other places, and the result has ever been the same. In
some cases, long-standing evils have grown out of these associations.
The irreligious and unconsecrated in heart and life are usually admitted,
and are often placed in the most responsible positions. Rules and regulations
may be adopted that are thought to be sufficient to hold in check every
deleterious influence; but Satan, a shrewd general, is at work to mold the
society to suit his plans, and in time he too often succeeds. . .
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of Appendix A]
The purposes and objects which lead to the formation of literary societies
may be good; but unless wisdom from God shall control these organizations, they
will become a positive evil. Various entertainments are introduced to make the
meetings interesting and attractive for worldlings, and thus the exercises of
the so-called literary society too often degenerate into demoralizing
theatrical
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performances, and cheap nonsense. All these gratify the carnal mind that is
at enmity with God; but they do not strengthen the intellect nor confirm the
morals. Little by little, the spiritual element is ruled out by the
irreligious, and the effort to harmonize principles which are antagonistic in
their nature proves a decided failure. When God's people voluntarily unite
with the worldly and unconsecrated, and give them the pre-eminence, they will
be led away from Him by the unsanctified influence under which they have placed
themselves.
Many literary societies are in reality young theaters on a cheap scale, and
they create in the youth a taste for the stage.
[Top of Appendix A]
While writing upon this point, my eye falls upon the following striking
incident from real life:
"'It is of no use, Mrs. W., I have tried again and again, and I
can not become a Christian.'
"'So you said a year ago, yet you thought there was nothing in the
way.'
"'I don't think there is now, but I don't feel any
different from what I did then, and I don't believe I ever shall be a
Christian.'
"The first speaker was a bright girl somewhat over twenty, who, on a
previous visit nearly a year before, had confided to her elder friend her
earnest desire to became a Christian. Of her evident sincerity there could be
no doubt, and the visitor was sorely puzzled to understand why her young friend
had not yet found peace. The two were standing by the half-opened door of the
Sunday-school room, where a rehearsal for an 'entertainment' was in
progress; and the girl, looking in, seemed suddenly to find there a suggestion
for further thought.
"'I believe,' she said hesitatingly, 'there is one thing
I cannot give up.'
"'Give it up at once, dear.'
"'But I can't.'
"'Come to Jesus first then, and He will give you the power.'
"'I don't want Him to. I believe if I knew I should die and
be lost in three weeks from tonight, I would rather be lost than give up my
passion.'
"'And what is this dearly loved thing, worth so much more than
your salvation?'
"'Oh, it isn't worth more, only I love it more, and I
can't and won't give it up. It's that I--I want to be an
actress; I know I have the talent; I've always hoped the way would open
for me to go upon the stage, and I can't help hoping so still.'
"'Do you think it would be wrong for you to do so, provided the
way did open?'
"'I don't know that it would be a sin; but I couldn't do
it and be a Christian; the two things don't go together.'
"'How did you come by such a taste? I am sure you do not belong to
a theater-going family?'
"'Oh, no! my father and mother are Methodists; they always
disapproved of the theater. I've been in Sunday-school all my life. They
used to make me sing and recite at the entertainments when I was four years
old, and I acted the angel and fairy parts in the dialogues; and when I grew
older, I always arranged the tableaus, charades, etc.
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"Then I joined a set of sociables got up by our church young people. At
first we did "Mrs. Jarley's Wax-works" and sung
"Pinafore" for the benefit of the church; and then we got more
ambitious, studied, and had private theatricals, and last winter we hired
Mason's Hall and gave a series of Shakespearean performances, which
cleared off a large part of the church debt. But that's only second-class
work, after all. I want to do the real thing, to go upon the stage as a
profession. My father won't hear of it; but I hope some time the way will
be opened that I may realize my heart's desire.'
"'And meantime, will you not come to Jesus and be saved?'
"'No, I cannot do it and keep to this hope, and I will not give
this up.'
"And so the visitor turned sadly away, thinking for what miserable
messes of pottage men and women are willing to sell their glorious birthright
as children of God; thinking also of the seeds which are being sowed in our
Sunday-schools, the tares among the wheat, and the terrible harvest that may
yet spring up from this well-meant but injudicious seed-sowing."
[Top of Appendix A]
It has been our study to devise some plan for the establishment of a
literary society which shall prove a benefit to all connected with it--a
society in which all its members shall feel a moral responsibility to make it
what it should be, and to avoid the evils that have made such associations
dangerous to religious principle. Persons of discretion and good judgment, who
have a living connection with Heaven, who will see the evil tendencies, and,
not deceived by Satan, will move straight forward in the path of integrity,
continually holding aloft the banner of Christ--such a class are needed to
control in these societies. Such an influence will command respect and make
these gatherings a blessing rather than a curse. If men and women of mature age
would unite with young persons to organize and conduct such a literary society,
it might become both useful and interesting. But when such gatherings
degenerate into occasions for fun and boisterous mirth, they are anything but
literary or elevating. They are debasing to both mind and morals. . . .
[Top of Appendix A]
Few realize that it is a duty to exercise control over their thoughts and
imaginations. It is difficult to keep the undisciplined mind fixed upon
profitable subjects. But if the thoughts are not properly employed, religion
cannot flourish in the soul. The mind must be preoccupied with sacred and
eternal things, or it will cherish trifling and superficial thoughts. Both the
intellectual and the moral powers must be disciplined, and they will strengthen
and improve by exercise. . . .
The intellect, as well as the heart, must be consecrated to the service of
God. He has claims upon all there is of us. However innocent or laudable it may
appear, the follower of Christ should not indulge in any gratification, or
engage in any enterprise, which an enlightened conscience tells him would abate
his ardor, or lessen his spirituality.
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"Pleasure-seeking, frivolity, and mental and moral dissipation, are flooding
the world with their demoralizing influence. Every Christian should labor to
press back the tide of evil, and save our youth from the influences that would
sweep them down to ruin. May God help us to press our way against the
current!"--RH Jan. 4, 1881.
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[Top of Document]
INVOLVEMENTS OF ACTS AND PLAYS IN SDA LITERARY SOCIETIES
[Top of Appendix B]
The purpose and object for which literary societies are established may be
good, but unless wisdom from above and continual reliance upon God is preserved
by all, there will be a decided failure in its exerting a saving influence.
When God's professed people voluntarily unite with the world or give
men of short religious experience the pre-eminence in these literary societies,
they do not have a high estimate of eternal things. They step over the line in
the very first movement. There may be boundaries, set rules, and regulations
made; but, notwithstanding all this, the worldly element will take the lead.
Men on the enemy's ground, led and controlled by his power, will have a
controlling influence, unless there is an infinite power to work against them.
Satan uses men as his agents to suggest, to lead out, to propose different acts
and a variety of amusing things which give no strength to the morals or
elevation to the mind, but are wholly worldly. Soon the religious element is
ruled out, and the irreligious elements take the lead.
[Top of Appendix B]
Men and women who will not be ensnared, who will move straightforward in the
path of integrity, loyal and true to the God of heaven whom they fear, love,
and honor, can have a powerful influence to hold the people of God. Such an
influence will command respect. But this vacillating between duty and the world
gives the world all the advantage and will surely leave its molding power so
that religion, God, and heaven, will scarcely enter the thoughts.
If youth, and men and women of mature age should organize a society where
Bible reading and Bible study should be made the prominent theme, dwelling upon
and searching out the prophecies, and studying the lessons of Christ, there
would be strength in the society. There is no book from the perusal of which
the mind is so much elevated and strengthened and expanded as the Bible. And
there is nothing that will so endow with new vigor all our faculties as
bringing them in
Page 13
contact with stupendous truths of the word of God, and setting the mind to
grasp and measure those truths.
[Top of Appendix B]
If the human mind takes a low level it is generally because it is left to
deal with common-place facts and not called out and exercised to grasp lofty,
elevated truths, which are enduring as eternity. These literary societies and
lyceums are almost universally exerting an influence entirely contrary to that
which they claim, and are an injury to the youth. This need not be the case,
but because unsanctified elements take the lead, because worldlings want
matters to go to please themselves, their hearts are not in harmony with Jesus
Christ, they are in the ranks of the Lord's enemies, and they will not be
pleased with that kind of entertainment which would strengthen and confirm the
members of the society in spirituality. There is brought in low, cheap matters
which are not elevating or instructive but which only amuse.
The way these societies have been conducted leads the mind away from serious
reflection, away from God, away from heaven. By attending them religious
thoughts and services have become distasteful. There is less desire for fervent
prayer, for pure and undefiled religion. The thoughts and conversation are not
on elevating themes, but dwelling upon the subjects brought up in these
gatherings. What is the chaff to the wheat? The understanding will gradually
bring itself down to the dimensions of the matters with which it is familiar,
till the powers of the mind become contracted, showing what has been its food.
[Top of Appendix B]
The mind that rejects all this cheapness and is taxed to dwell only upon
elevated, ponderous, deep, and broad truths will strengthen. A knowledge of the
Bible excels all other knowledge in strengthening the intellect. If your
lyceums and literary societies would be made an opportunity for searching the
Bible, it would be far more an intellectual society than it can ever become
through the attention being turned to theatrical performances. What high and
noble truths the mind may fasten upon and explore in God's Word! The mind
may go deeper and still deeper in its research, becoming stronger with every
effort to comprehend truth, and yet there will be an infinity beyond.
Those who compose these societies, who profess to love and reverence sacred
things, and yet allow the mind to come down to the superficial, to the unreal,
to simple, cheap, fictitious acting, are doing the devil's work just as
surely as they look upon and unite in these scenes. Could their eyes be opened,
they would see that Satan was their leader, the instigator, through agents
present who think themselves to be something. But God pronounces their life and
character altogether lighter than vanity. If these societies should make the
Lord and his greatness, his mercies, his works in
Page 14
Nature, his majesty and power as revealed in inspiration their study they
would come forth blest and strengthened.--2MR 244-246
[Top of Appendix B]
[Top of Document]
[Top of Document]
THE USE OF OUR TALENTS OF COMMUNICATION
[From EGW MS 42, 1898, used largely in Review &
Herald Supplement of June 21, 1898.]
[Top of Appendix C]
Many, many souls might be saved if those who claim to be followers of Christ
would work as Christ worked, living not to please self, but to glorify God,
acting as missionaries, showing genuine love for the Master by making every
possible use of their entrusted talents. From the very nature of work in
Christ's lines, those who do it will lose sight of self.
We are called upon to love souls as Christ loved them, to feel a travail of
soul that sinners shall be converted. Present the matchless love of Christ.
Hide self out of sight. 0, what care should be taken by all who claim to be
Christians, that they do not call their passions and self-importance religion!
By showing vanity, by longing for distinction, many hide the person of Christ
and expose themselves to view. There is such self-importance in their own ideas
and ways, and they cherish such a pleasing sense of their own smartness, that
the Lord can not bestow his Holy Spirit upon them. If He did, they would
misinterpret it, and exalt themselves still higher because of it. Their
self-pleasing ideas are a great hindrance to the advancement of the work.
Whatever part they act, self is the main picture presented. Their own zeal and
devotion are thought to be the great power of truth. Unaware to themselves, all
such are unfaithful stewards. They swerve the work into wrong lines.
Self-importance leads them where they will be left to make false moves.
We are not to exalt the work of any man, magnifying him and praising
his judgment. The first rising of self is the beginning of your fall, your
separation from Christ. We can not in any degree exalt self without being
humbled. As Christians, we are to make the light of Christ's truth shine.
Self is to be kept out of sight. Christ is the Truth and the Light. He is the
mirror from which to reflect truly every work done to His name's glory.
The world needs light. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." . . .
[Top of Appendix C]
God gives more than money to His stewards. Your talent of imparting is a
gift. What are you communicating of the gifts of God in your words, in your
tender sympathy? Are you allowing your money to go into the enemy's ranks,
to ruin the ones you seek to please? Then, again, the knowledge of truth is a
talent. There are many souls in darkness that might be enlightened by true,
faithful
Page 15
words from you. There are hearts that are hungering for sympathy, perishing
away from God. Your sympathy may help them. The Lord has need of your words,
dictated by His Holy Spirit. . . .
All natural gifts are to be sanctified as precious endowments. They are to
be consecrated to God, that they may minister for the Master. All social
advantages are talents. They are not to be devoted to self-pleasing, amusement,
or self-gratification. Money and estates are the Lord's, to be used wholly
to honor Him; for He has pledged His word that if we use His entrusted goods as
faithful stewards, we shall be rich in blessings, of which we shall have a
supply to bless others. But if we regard the advantages given to us as our own,
to be used according to our pleasure, to make a display and create a sensation,
the Lord Jesus, our Redeemer, is put to shame by the characters of His
professed followers.
[Top of Appendix C]
Has God given you intellect? Is it for you to manage according to your
inclinations? Can you glorify God by being educated to represent characters in
plays, and to amuse an audience with fables? Has not the Lord given you
intellect to be used to His name's glory in proclaiming the gospel of
Christ? If you desire a public career, there is a work that you may do. Help
the class you represent in plays. Come to the reality. Give your sympathy where
it is needed by actually lifting up the bowed down. Satan's ruling passion
is to pervert the intellect and cause men to long for shows and theatrical
performances. The experience and character of all who engage in this work will
be in accordance with the food given to the mind. [Paragraph not in
Review article; 2MR 246.]
The Lord has given evidence of His love for the world. There was no falsity,
no acting, in what He did. He gave a living Gift, capable of suffering
humiliation, neglect, shame, reproach. This Christ did that He might rescue the
fallen. While human beings were instituting schemes and methods to destroy Him,
the Son of the infinite God came to our world to give an example of the great
work to be done to redeem and save man. But today the proud and disobedient are
striving to acquire a great name and great honor from their fellow men by using
their God-given endowments to amuse. This they do instead of calling upon them
to behold the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world.
[Top of Appendix C]
God's great and strange work is to redeem and save, and thus repair the
ruin that sin has made. Some see many things in the Bible that to them sanction
a course of action that God will never approve. But when God converts human
agents, they will flee to Christ, their life, to be hid with Him in God. They
will lift up their eyes to the perpetual desolation which sin has made and is
Page 16
making, and will pray that they may be co-laborers with Christ. They will
begin to repair the old waste places which have been made by high and low in
the law of God.
All who desire a place of distinction have an opportunity to wear the yoke
of Christ. "Learn of me," says the Great Teacher; "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." Let the cry of the soul be, "O Lord,
thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done
wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. . . . For
thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress,
a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible
ones is as a storm against the wall. . . . And it shall be said in that day,
Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the
Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his
salvation."
The gift of correct example is a great thing. But many gather about the soul
an atmosphere that is malarious. These know not, in this their day, the things
that belong to their peace. They have, to a great degree, lost the faculty of
spiritual discernment. They call good evil, and evil good.
[Top of Appendix C]
The gifts of speech, of knowledge, of sympathy and love, communicate a
knowledge of Christ. All these gifts are to be converted to God. The Lord
stands in need of them; He calls for them. All are to act a part in preparing
their own souls and the souls of others to dedicate their talents to God. Every
soul, every gift, is to be laid under contribution to God. All are to cooperate
with God in the work of saving souls. The talents you possess are given you of
God to make you efficient co-laborers with Christ. There are hearts hungering
for sympathy, perishing for the help and assistance God has given you to give
to them. Our churches are sickly, because they do not do their appointed work.
They are not as God would have them be. Oh, that they would awake from their
lethargy!
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power
of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand
against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but
against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of
this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto
you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,
and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about
with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod
with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of
faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the
word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and
watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints."
[Top of Appendix C]
[Top of Document]
Page 17
ENACTED SCENES
[Top of Document]
[This communication was written early Wednesday morning December 26, 1888,
and related to a dramatized Christmas program put on by the Battle Creek
Sabbath School. The children wore costumes. Ella M. White, Mrs. White's
six year old granddaughter was in the program dressed to represent an angel.]
Dear Brother_______:
I have risen at three o'clock this morning to write you a few lines. I
was pleased with the lighthouse, and the scene which had required so much
painstaking effort was one which could have been made most impressive, but
failed to be made as forcible and striking as it might have been when it cost
so much time and labor in preparing it. The part acted by the children was
good. The reading was appropriate. Then if there had been good solid talk on
that occasion in regard to children and teachers in the Sabbath schools
laboring earnestly for the salvation of the souls of the children under your
charge, presenting the most acceptable offering to Jesus, the gift of their own
hearts, and impressive remarks short and right to the point, [on] how they
could do this, would it not have been in keeping with the work we have been
trying to do in the church?
Every stroke now should be in harmony for the one great purpose, preparing
of the hearts, that individually, pupils and teachers should be as a light set
on a candlestick that it may give light to all that are in the house, which
would be carrying out the idea strikingly of a lighthouse guiding souls that
they may not make shipwreck of faith. Can you tell me what marked impression
the two poems rehearsed by the two ladies on the stand would have to do with
this work?
The singing was after the order we would expect it to be in any theatrical
performance, but not one word to be distinguished. Certainly the tempest-tossed
ship would be wrecked upon the rock, if there were no more light coming from
the lighthouse than was seen in the exercises. I must say I was pained at these
things, so out of order with the very work of reformation we were trying to
carry forward in the church and with our institutions that I should have felt
better if I had not been present.
This was an occasion that should have been gotten up not only for the
Sabbath school children but words should have been spoken that would have
deepened the impression of a necessity of seeking for the favor of that Saviour
who hath loved them and gave Himself for them. If [only] the precious hymns had
been sung, "Rock of ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee,"
and "Jesus lover of my soul, let me to Thy bosom fly, while the billows
near me roll, while the tempest still is
Page 18
high!" Whose souls were inspired with new and fresh zeal for the
Master in those songs sung whose virtue was in the different performances of
the singer?
While these painstaking efforts were being made to get up the performances,
meetings were being held of the deepest interest which should have engaged the
attention and which called for the presence of every soul lest they should lose
something of the message the Master had sent to them. Now this Christmas has
passed into eternity with its burden of record and we are anxious to see the
result of it. Will it make those who acted their part in it more spiritually
minded? Will it increase their sense of obligation to our heavenly Father who
sent His Son into the world at such an infinite sacrifice to save fallen man
from utter ruin? Was the mind awakened to grasp God because of His great love
wherewith He has loved us?
We hope, now that the Christmas is in the past, that those who have put
forth so much painstaking effort will now manifest a decided zeal and earnest,
disinterested effort for the salvation of the souls of the teachers in the
Sabbath school, that in their turn they may each labor for the salvation of the
souls in their classes, to give them personal instruction as to what they must
do to be saved. We hope that they will find time to labor in simplicity and in
sincerity for the souls of those under their care, and that they will pray with
them, and for them, that they may give to Jesus the precious offering of their
own souls, that they may make literally true the symbol of the lighthouse in
the beams of light shining forth from their own strong efforts in the name of
Jesus, which should be put forth in love, they themselves grasping the rays of
light to diffuse this light to others, and that there shall be no settling down
to a surface work. Show just as great skill and aptitude in winning souls to
Jesus as you have shown in painstaking effort for this occasion just past.
Point them in your efforts with heart and soul enlisted, to the Star that
shines out to the morally darkened heaven at this time, even the Light of the
world. Let your light shine that the tempest-tossed souls may set their eyes
upon it and escape the rocks that are concealed beneath the surface of the
water. Temptations are lying in wait to deceive them, souls are oppressed with
guilt ready to sink into despair. Labor to save them; point them to Jesus who
so loved them that He gave His life for them. . . .
The Light of the world is shining upon us that we might absorb the divine
rays and let this light shine upon others in good works that many souls shall
be led to glorify our Father which is in heaven. He is long-suffering, not
willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, and it
grieves the heart of Jesus that so many refuse the offers of His mercy and
matchless love.
Page 19
Will all who acted an interested part in the program of last evening work as
zealously and interestedly to show themselves approved unto God in doing their
work for the Master that they may show themselves intelligent workmen that need
not to be ashamed? Oh, let the teachers in the Sabbath school be thoroughly
imbued with the spirit of the message for this time, carrying that message into
all their labor. There are souls to be saved, and while in the Sabbath school
work there has been much form and great amount of precious time occupied in
reading of reports and records, there has been but little time to really let
light shine forth in clear, steady rays in the very instruction needed to save
the souls of the children and youth. Less elaborate speeches, less lengthy
remarks, and plain pointed truth presented, not one word uttered to exhibit
profound knowledge, not one word in any speech, but the greatest evidence of
real knowledge is the great simplicity. All who have taken knowledge of Jesus
Christ will imitate Him in their manner of instruction.--19MR 300-303.
[Top of Document]
THE EVANGELIST AND THEATRICAL DISPLAY
[Repeatedly Ellen White counseled our ministers and evangelists to avoid
theatrical display in the pulpit:]
"Our success will depend on carrying forward the work in the simplicity
in which Christ carried it forward, without any theatrical display."--Ev
139.
The following three statements offer some enlightenment as to what was meant
by "theatrical display" in the evangelistic presentation:
"Let there be no oddities or eccentricities of movement on the
part of those who speak the Word of truth, for such things will weaken the
impression that should be made by the Word. We must be guarded, for Satan is
determined, if possible, to intermingle with religious services his evil
influence. Let there be no theatrical display, for this will not help to
strengthen belief in the Word of God. Rather, it will divert attention to the
human instrument."--2SM 23, 24.
"He [a certain evangelist] should cut off from his meetings
everything that has a semblance of theatrical display; for such outward
appearances give no strength to the message that he bears. When the Lord can
cooperate with him, his work will not need to be done in so expensive a manner.
He will not need then to go to so much expense in advertising his meetings. He
will not place so much dependence on the musical program. This part of his
services is conducted more after the order of a concert in a theater than a
song service in a religious meeting."--Ev 501.
Page 20
The minister of Christ should be a man of prayer, a man of piety; cheerful,
but never coarse and rough, jesting or frivolous. A spirit of frivolity may be
in keeping with the profession of clowns and theatrical actors; but it is
altogether beneath the dignity of a man who is chosen to stand between the
living and the dead, and to be a mouthpiece for God."--4T 320.
Again, in 1910 we are counseled very definitely that we are not to use
theatrical methods. There appears in the book Evangelism:
"I have a message for those in charge of our work. Do not
encourage the men who are to engage in this work to think that they must
proclaim the solemn, sacred message in a theatrical style. Not one jot or
tittle of anything theatrical is to be brought into our work. God's cause
is to have a sacred, heavenly mold. Let everything connected with the giving of
the message for this time bear the divine impress. Let nothing of a theatrical
nature be permitted, for this would spoil the sacredness of the work.
"I am instructed that we shall meet with all kinds of
experiences and that men will try to bring strange performances into the work
of God. We have met such things in many places. In my very first labors, the
message was given that all theatrical performances in connection with the
preaching of present truth were to be discouraged and forbidden. Men who
thought they had a wonderful work to do sought to adopt a strange deportment
and manifested oddities in bodily exercise. The light given me was, 'Give this
no sanction.' These performances, which savored of the theatrical, were to
have no place in the proclamation of the solemn messages entrusted to us.
"The enemy will watch closely and will take every advantage of
circumstances to degrade the truth by the introduction of undignified
demonstrations. None of these demonstrations are to be encouraged. The precious
truths given us are to be spoken in all solemnity and with sacred awe."--Ev
137, 138.
Arthur L. White
Ellen G. White
Estate
Washington D.C.
February 1963
Revised February 1996,
JRN
Silver Spring, Maryland