Prophets Who Run Ahead Of God’s Plans

Another example of a prophet needing correction is when the messenger gives advice or suggestions that do not have the Lord’s backing. The Bible records the illustration of Nathan the prophet who enthusiastically approved David’s plan of building a temple for God (1 Chronicles 17:1-4). The same night, God revealed to the prophet that His plans were different. David would not be the builder of the temple. Nathan then went back to the king with a corrected message.VOTS 29.2

In the history of the Advent movement we also find instances when the messenger of the Lord was corrected in a similar fashion. In 1902, the Southern Publishing Association was facing financial problems. The leaders of the church sought inspired advice. After due deliberation, Ellen White agreed with the leadership that the publishing house should be closed. The following night, the Lord corrected her, and she had to record a different message: “To My Brethren in Positions of Responsibility:—During the night following our interview in my house and out on the lawn under the trees, October 19, 1902, in regard to the work in the Southern field, the Lord instructed me that I had taken a wrong position.” ^{4Letter 208, 1902.}VOTS 29.3