The Testimony of Early Leaders

In full harmony with the above are statements made by leading workers through the years, of which we give two here. James White testifies:2BIO 493.3

They [Seventh-day Adventists] believe in the perpetuity of spiritual gifts. They believe that the spirit of prophecy has rested upon Mrs. White, and that she is called to do a special work at this time, among this people. They do not, however, make a belief in this work a test of Christian fellowship. But, after men and women have had evidence that the work is of God, and then join hands with those who fight against it, our people claim the right to separate from such, that they may enjoy their sentiments in peace and quiet.—The Review and Herald, June 13, 1871.2BIO 493.4

On this point, Elder J. N. Andrews writes: 2BIO 493.5

We therefore do not test the world in any manner by these gifts. Nor do we, in our intercourse with other religious bodies who are striving to walk in the fear of God, in any way make these a test of Christian character. Upon none of these persons do we urge these manifestations of the spirit of God, nor test them by their teaching.

There is such a thing, however, as men having in the providence of God an opportunity to become acquainted with the special work of the spirit of God, so that they shall acknowledge that their light is clear, convincing, and satisfactory. To such persons, we consider the gifts of the spirit ...clearly a test. Not only has God spoken, but they have had opportunity to ascertain that fact, and to know it for themselves. In all such cases, spiritual gifts are manifestly a test that cannot be disregarded except at the peril of eternal ruin.—Ibid., February 15, 18702BIO 494.1