Summary of Ellen White vs The Bible w. Dr. George Knight | Biblios 14

Summary of "Ellen White vs The Bible w. Dr. George Knight | Biblios 14"

This video features a discussion with Dr. George Knight about the relationship between Ellen G. White, a foundational figure in Seventh-day Adventism, and the Bible. The conversation explores Ellen White’s prophetic role, her authority relative to Scripture, and how her writings should be approached and understood by believers.

---

Main Ideas and Concepts

• Ellen White’s Authority is Derived from Scripture:
  • Ellen White is recognized as a prophet within the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
  • Her prophetic role is not independent of the Bible but is grounded in and tested by Scripture.
  • Biblical passages such as Ephesians 4 and Joel 2:28-29 affirm the continuation of the gift of prophecy until the end of time.
  • The primary test of a true prophet is that they point people to Jesus and back to the Bible.
• Definition of a Prophet:
  • Distinction is made between someone with a “prophetic voice” (calling the church to genuine Christianity) and a true prophet who is inspired by the Holy Spirit.
  • Ellen White is considered a true prophet, not just a moral or spiritual influencer.
• Historical Context and Acceptance of Ellen White:
  • Early Adventists, including the Millerites, were skeptical of prophetic claims due to past fanaticism.
  • Key figures like Joseph Bates initially doubted Ellen White until witnessing her visions.
  • Ellen White herself preferred the term “God’s messenger” over “prophet,” distancing herself from controversial figures like Joseph Smith and Mary Baker Eddy.
• Relationship Between Ellen White’s Writings and the Bible:
  • Ellen White always pointed readers back to the Bible, describing herself as the “lesser light” leading to the “greater light” (Scripture).
  • Her writings are intended to clarify and help understand biblical principles in a modern context.
  • She authored several key books (e.g., Desire of Ages, Patriarchs and Prophets, The Great Controversy) that cover biblical history and theology.
  • Ellen White’s role includes guiding believers through difficult eschatological times, acting like a “pilot” guiding a ship through rough waters.
• Why Use Ellen White’s Writings If the Bible is Sufficient?
  • While salvation and faith come through Scripture alone, Ellen White’s writings help believers understand the Bible better.
  • Her counsel is especially helpful in interpreting end-time events and applying biblical truths in contemporary life.
  • She encourages deeper Bible study rather than replacing Scripture.
• Proper Use and Interpretation of Ellen White’s Writings:
  • There is a “right way” and “wrong way” to use her writings.
  • Principles for proper use include:
    • Reading her work contextually (historical and literary context).
    • Avoiding isolation of extreme or difficult statements.
    • Understanding her mission and the vision behind her compilations.
    • Recognizing that some writings were health or lifestyle advice tailored to specific situations and not universally prescriptive.
    • Dr. Knight shares his personal experience of misusing her writings and how proper understanding helped him.
• Comparison with Other Prophetic Figures:
  • Unlike Joseph Smith (founder of Mormonism), Ellen White never claimed her writings were superior to Scripture.
  • Her writings always direct readers back to the Bible, maintaining Scripture’s primacy.

Methodology / Instructions for Using Ellen White’s Writings

• Principles for Reading and Applying Ellen White:
  • Always read her writings alongside the Bible.
  • Understand the historical background and literary context.
  • Avoid taking isolated or extreme quotes out of context.
  • Use her writings to deepen understanding of biblical teachings, especially about Jesus and salvation.
  • Recognize the difference between her inspired theological works and her more practical, situational advice.
  • Approach her compilations with an awareness of their nature (not original books but collections).
  • Be cautious of over-reliance or misuse that elevates her writings above Scripture.

Speakers / Sources Featured

• Dr. George Knight – Seventh-day Adventist scholar and expert on Ellen White and Adventist history.
• Host(s) of Biblios Stew – Facilitator(s) of the discussion (names not specified).

This discussion provides a balanced understanding of Ellen White’s prophetic role, emphasizing her subordination to Scripture and her function as a guide to better biblical understanding, especially for Seventh-day Adventists navigating faith and eschatology.

Notable Quotes

— 09:24 — « The role of Ellen White is sort of to provide some guidance but also to encourage us to go back to the Scripture, to read those who know the Bible better and to know Jesus better. »

— 09:32 — « If I was gonna sum up the Ministry of Ellen White, the real heart of it is to know the Bible better, to know Jesus better. She wants to point us to those two great truths. »

— 10:21 — « How do you know which five percent? That's the part you skip over. »

— 11:16 — « I came into this church reading Ellen White wrong and that turned out to be a real nut, and that was difficult to live with. »

— 11:37 — « What I've tried to do is try to discover what my tested for how we should interpret her own writings. »

Category

Educational

Video