Priority Given to Books Published During Ellen White's Lifetime

Even though we might make no distinction between a private letter written under inspiration and one of Ellen White's published articles or books, it is important to recognize that she gave greater editorial attention to material that went into print. What was first written hastily, or in an undeveloped manner, she could refine, clarify, or further expand so that the reader might avoid misunderstanding or misapplying the message. For this reason, when we encounter potentially problematic passages in the writings or teachings of Ellen White, it is her published works—specifically those published by her in her lifetime—that we should considered as conveying her views most fully and accurately.1EGWLM 35.1

Regarding the authority of Ellen White's prophetic writings, Seventh-day Adventists have understood them as having the same authority that the writings of the noncanonical Bible prophets had for their time. The Bible refers to a number of prophets such as Nathan (1 Chron. 29:29), Huldah (2 Chron. 34:22), Iddo (2 Chron. 9:29), and Agabus (Acts 11:27, 28), some of whom wrote books that Scripture mentions. These prophets communicated divine messages, but their writings (if they wrote) did not become a part of the biblical canon.1EGWLM 35.2

Ellen White recognized and taught that the canon of Scripture—those writings that constitute the rule of faith and practice for God's people—is closed.^{9Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, pp. vii, viii.} Though she was inspired by the same Holy Spirit who inspired the biblical prophets, her ministry differs in regard to its purpose and scope. Seventh-day Adventists “do not believe that the writings of Ellen White are an addition to the canon of Sacred Scripture.”^{10“The Inspiration and Authority of the Ellen G. White Writings,” Ministry, February 1983, p. 24. See also “Fundamental Beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists, No. 18: The Gift of Prophecy.”}1EGWLM 35.3