“I Was Shown”

The expression, “I was shown” or similar phrases such as “I saw” or “it was presented to me” were used by Ellen White to refer to statements or counsel communicated through a vision or a prophetic dream. We find a variety of these declarations in her writings. The overwhelming majority of her letters, manuscripts, and even entire chapters of her books, however, do not contain any of these expressions. Should we consider these portions less inspired than those that contain the expression “I was shown”? Of course not. That would be the same as limiting the Holy Spirit to the use of a single model of inspiration. It is true that it is more fascinating, more spectacular, when the prophet receives a vision, especially when this takes place in public. But the Spirit can also inspire the prophet to use his own judgment—judgment illuminated and moved by the Spirit who controls the mind of God’s servant.VOTS 77.2

In this inspired model of prophetic guidance, the prophet acts as an instrument of the Spirit, offering direction and orientation to the church in various matters related to behavior, human relationships, lifestyle standards, church discipline, or anything else that the Lord considers important for the well-being of the members and the final victory of the church.VOTS 78.1