Presented “in a False Light”
Mrs. White declares not only that the Testimonies are not “an addition to the Word of God,” but that those who teach them in this manner present them “in a false light.” The main purpose of the Testimonies is to give a clearer understanding of the Scriptures. The Word of God deals with great general principles. Mrs. White in her writings has taken these great principles and drawn them out in detail. The great truths of the Bible are simplified. We quote again:TOJ 68.4
“‘Brother R would confuse the mind by seeking to make it appear that the light God has given through the Testimonies is an addition to the Word of God; but in this he presents the matter in a false light. God has seen fit in this manner to bring the minds of His people to His Word, to give them a clearer understanding of it.’ ‘The Word of God is sufficient to enlighten the most beclouded mind, and may be understood by those who have any desire to understand it. But notwithstanding all this, some who profess to make the Word of God their study, are found living in direct opposition to its plainest teachings. Then, to leave men and women without excuse, God gives plain and pointed testimonies, bringing them back to the Word that they have neglected to follow.’ ‘The Word of God abounds in general principles for the formation of correct habits of living, and the Testimonies, general and personal, have been calculated to call their attention more especially to these principles.’”—Testimonies for the Church 5:663, 664.TOJ 69.1
“The written Testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man’s duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God’s Word; yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out; but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given, and in His own chosen way brought them before the people, to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse.... The Testimonies are not to belittle the Word of God, but to exalt it, and attract minds to it, that the beautiful simplicity of truth may impress all.”—Testimonies for the Church 5:665.TOJ 69.2