A Word From A World Observer

Mrs. White did not use her position as the agent of this gift to build up gain for herself. The gift was used to build up the cause of the movement. Even observers in the world noted this fact with satisfaction. If she had left a fortune behind her, they would have been disappointed. When Mrs. White died, in 1915, the editor of the New York Independent (which had become the leading religious magazine of America) commented on her life and work, and her contribution to the Seventh-day Adventist cause. First, the editorial spoke of the teachings and growth of the denomination:SPIAM 126.1

“Of course, these teachings [of the founders of the denomination] were based on the strictest doctrine of inspiration of the Scriptures. Seventh-day Adventism could be got in no other way. And the gift of prophecy was to be expected, as promised to the ‘remnant church,’ who had held fast to the truth. This faith gave great purity of life and incessant zeal. No body of Christians excels them in moral character and religious earnestness. [The editor told of the growth of the work in many lands, and of the many publishing houses, colleges and academies, and sanitariums over the earth—the figures being now altogether out of date.]SPIAM 126.2

“And in all this,” the Independent continued, “Ellen G. White has been the inspiration and guide. Here is a noble record, and she deserves great honor.SPIAM 126.3

“Did she really receive divine visions, and was she really chosen by the Holy Spirit to be endued with the charism of prophecy? or was she the victim of an excited imagination? Why should we answer? One’s doctrine of the Bible may affect the conclusion. At any rate, she was absolutely honest in her belief in her revelations. Her life was worthy of them. She showed no spiritual pride and she sought no ‘filthy lucre.’ She lived the life and did the work of a worthy prophetess.”—August 23, 1915.SPIAM 126.4

It was a fitting tribute by an observer from without, surveying a lifework. The conclusion stated is true.SPIAM 126.5