PEACEMAKERS’ PATH: FAITH’S STAND

Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the Christian call to embrace peace amid worldly conflicts, highlighting the priority of spiritual warfare over physical violence, unwavering obedience to divine law when human authorities contradict it, and the commitment to the narrow path of righteousness in preparation for Christ’s return, grounded in Scripture and the insights of Ellen G. White.

CALL TO FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE

The topic of Christian involvement in warfare raises essential questions about faith, obedience, and the spirit of peacemaking. According to biblical teachings, Christians are called to be distinct from the world and its conflicts, especially in matters of war. Christians, as followers of Christ, must resist the temptation to engage in worldly violence, instead choosing the path of peace. Evidence supporting this can be found in the Bible, where Christ teaches, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9, KJV). This call to peacemaking is further echoed in the writings of Ellen G. White, who argues that “the spirit of hatred and revenge originated with Satan” and that engaging in war perpetuates this destructive spirit (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 361, 1860). Sr. White also states, “Satan delights in war for it excites the worst passions of the soul” (Great Controversy, p. 589, 1911), reinforcing the claim that war conflicts with the Christian calling to righteousness. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Turn from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, KJV), and “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them” (Psalm 119:165, KJV). Sr. White affirms that “A kind, courteous Christian is the most powerful argument that can be produced in favor of Christianity” (Reflecting Christ, p. 306, 1985), and “The grace of Christ in the soul is developing traits of character that are the opposite of selfishness—traits that will refine, ennoble, and enrich the life” (The Adventist Home, p. 535, 1952). A true Christian must separate from worldly actions that lead to destruction, and instead follow the narrow path of peace, as commanded by Christ. The biblical and prophetic evidence urges us to adopt a stance of conscientious objection to war, aligning ourselves with the principles of peace and divine law, rather than with the world’s violence. But how do we endure to the end while keeping God’s commandments in a world filled with conflict?

ETERNAL LIFE THROUGH ENDURANCE

The Bible teaches that the blessing of eternal life is given to those who keep God’s commandments and endure to the end (Revelation 22:14; Matthew 24:13). Jesus warned that this perseverance may even demand faithfulness unto death (Revelation 2:10). However, we are not left to face this challenge alone. Revelation 14:12 highlights that the Gospel and the faith of Jesus have been provided to empower us to keep the commandments of God. The Gospel message is not just a proclamation of salvation but also the power to live a life in accordance with God’s law (Romans 1:16). Christ came into the world not to destroy but to save (Luke 9:56). Upon accepting the Gospel, we enter into a spiritual battle (1 Peter 5:8), and as soldiers of the kingdom of God (2 Timothy 2:3), we must wage war against spiritual forces, not physical ones (Ephesians 6:12). The kingdom we serve is not of this world, and our battle is against the spiritual wickedness in high places (John 18:36). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace” (Numbers 6:24-26, KJV), and “The LORD giveth strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace” (Psalm 29:11, KJV). Sr. White explains that “The warnings given to the Hebrews against assimilating with the heathen were not more direct or explicit than are those forbidding Christians to conform to the spirit and customs of the ungodly” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 458, 1890), and “We are all woven together in the great web of humanity, and whatever we can do to benefit and uplift others will reflect in blessing upon ourselves” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 534, 1890). The community must prioritize spiritual readiness over worldly distractions. But what distinguishes the kingdom of God from earthly powers in times of upheaval?

DISTINCTION OF KINGDOMS

The Bible presents a clear distinction between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Earthly powers are in a state of constant upheaval and division, as foretold by the prophecy in Daniel (Daniel 2:44). Ellen G. White, in Testimonies for the Church, describes the current state of worldly nations as being represented by the fragile toes of Nebuchadnezzar’s image, emphasizing that the nations will not achieve unity and that the day of God’s judgment is rapidly approaching (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 1, p. 360-361, 1860). As soldiers in Christ’s army, we must remain disentangled from the affairs of this world (2 Timothy 2:3-4). The actions of the world, characterized by violence and war, mirror the days of Noah, when the earth was filled with violence and corruption (Genesis 6:11). Sr. White underscores that war and crime were rampant in Noah’s time, just as they will be before Christ’s second coming (The SDA Bible Commentary Vol. 1, p. 1090:6, 1953). If we participate in the spirit of war, we align ourselves with the spirit of the antediluvian world, a spirit that originates with Satan, who led the world into sin and violence (1 John 3:15). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (Romans 12:18, KJV), and “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, KJV). Sr. White notes that “God requires his people to shine as lights in the world. It is not merely the ministers who are required to do this, but every disciple of Christ. Their conversation should be heavenly” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 2, p. 122, 1868), and “The perfection of Christian character depends wholly upon the grace and strength found alone in God” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 3, p. 188, 1873). The community must remain separate from worldly violence. But how does the spirit of hatred lead to death, and what is our response?

ROOT OF HATRED AND SEPARATION

This spirit of hatred and revenge, rooted in Satan’s rebellion, leads to death. Even harboring malice or aiding others in acts of violence aligns one with this destructive force. Ellen G. White warns that those who take part in war or help others do so will face severe consequences, as reflected in the words of Christ (Matthew 26:51-52; Revelation 13:10) (Welfare Ministry, p. 136:5, 1952). We are called to separate from the world and its violent ways, as stated in 2 Corinthians 6:17. God will only accept those who detach themselves from the sinful practices of this world, as separation from the world is a prerequisite for becoming children of God (2 Corinthians 6:18). Sr. White emphasizes that a mere profession of Christianity is insufficient; true obedience to God’s requirements is what distinguishes His people from the world (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 2, p. 441:1, 1868). We are not of this world (John 17:16), and instead of participating in the spirit of war, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), reflecting God’s love even to our enemies (Romans 12:20-21; Matthew 5:44-47). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36, KJV), and “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another” (Romans 14:19, KJV). Sr. White teaches that “True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 2, p. 133, 1868), and “God tests and proves us by the common occurrences of life. It is the little things which reveal the chapters of the heart” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 2, p. 133, 1868). The community must embody love and forgiveness. But why do we reject revenge and fight only spiritual battles?

SPIRITUAL BATTLE CALL

As followers of Christ, we are urged not to seek revenge or fight for our rights (Romans 12:19). The battle that we are called to fight is spiritual, not physical. As we reflect the character of Christ, who did not retaliate but entrusted Himself to God, we are called to embody love and forgiveness, even in the face of injustice. This principle sets the foundation for understanding why we, as conscientious objectors, reject participation in war and violence. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace” (James 3:18, KJV), and “If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink” (Proverbs 25:21, KJV). Sr. White writes that “A Christian reveals true humility by showing the gentleness of Christ, by being always ready to help others, by speaking kind words and performing unselfish acts, which elevate and ennoble the most sacred message that has come to our world” (The Desire of Ages, p. 650, 1898), and “It is labor that keeps the strong man strong. And spiritual labor, toil and burden-bearing, is what will give strength to the church of Christ” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 3, p. 406, 1875). The community must stand apart from violence. But why does Satan seek to involve us in war as part of his plan of deception?

CONSCIENTIOUS STANCE

The Christian’s stance as a conscientious objector is firmly rooted in the teachings of Scripture and the guidance provided through Ellen G. White’s writings. We are not to engage in the physical conflicts of this world, as our true battle is spiritual. By separating from the spirit of war and adhering to God’s commandments, we reflect the character of Christ and prepare for His soon return. The path of peace, love, and obedience leads to eternal life, and the call to stand apart from the violence of this world is a crucial aspect of the Christian witness in these last days. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant” (Hebrews 13:20, KJV), and “The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:14, KJV). Sr. White states that “Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing” (The Desire of Ages, p. 330, 1898), and “Worry is blind, and cannot discern the future; but Jesus sees the end from the beginning” (The Desire of Ages, p. 330, 1898). The community must focus on spiritual readiness. But why does war grieve the Holy Spirit and detract from God’s work?

SATAN’S DECEPTIVE FORCE

War has always been a destructive force, affecting not only nations but also the spiritual lives of individuals. Satan, aware of the shortness of his time, employs war to distract and deceive God’s people. He uses war to captivate the minds of individuals, leading them away from their spiritual responsibilities and keeping them absorbed in worldly matters. As Ellen G. White asserts, “Satan delights in war, for it excites the worst passions of the soul and then sweeps into eternity its victims steeped in vice and blood” (The Great Controversy, p. 589, 1911). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh” (2 Corinthians 10:3, KJV), and “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn” (Isaiah 54:17, KJV). Sr. White describes that “False religion may prevail, iniquity may abound, the love of many may wax cold, the cross of Calvary may be lost sight of, and darkness, like the pall of death, may spread over the world; the whole force of the popular current may be formed to overthrow the people of God; but in the hour of greatest peril the God of Elijah will raise up human instrumentalities to bear a message that will not be silenced” (Prophets and Kings, p. 186, 1917), and “The first time the temptation comes, meet it in such a decided manner that it will never be repeated” (Messages to Young People, p. 82, 1930). The community must recognize war’s role in spiritual decay. But how does war grieve the Holy Spirit and hinder our gospel mission?

GRIEVING THE SPIRIT

War grieves the Holy Spirit and detracts from God’s intended work for His people. When the Spirit of God is withdrawn, war emerges as one of the most devastating consequences. Ellen G. White emphasizes that “The Spirit of God is being grieved away from the earth. The nations are angry with one another. Widespread preparations are being made for war. The night is at hand. Let the church arouse and go forth to her appointed work” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 26, 1909). As God’s Spirit is withdrawn, war stirs up the worst in human nature, exciting anger, hatred, and destruction. This diversion prevents us from focusing on our primary responsibility: sharing the gospel and preparing for Christ’s return. War, in its chaos, leads individuals to neglect their spiritual duties, and as the Spirit of God is grieved, opportunities for redemption are lost. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” (Hebrews 10:24, KJV), and “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous” (1 Peter 3:8, KJV). Sr. White warns that “It is Satan’s constant effort to misrepresent the character of God, the nature of sin, and the real issues at stake in the great controversy” (The Great Controversy, p. 591, 1911), and “The conduct of some professed Christians is so lacking in kindness and courtesy that their good is evil spoken of” (The Adventist Home, p. 427, 1952). The community must prioritize gospel work. But why does war excite degraded passions and lead to moral corruption?

MORAL DECAY IN WAR

War is particularly dangerous because it excites the most degraded passions in humanity, drawing individuals into moral corruption. Ellen G. White notes that Satan incites war not only to cause death and destruction but also to engage individuals in acts that defile their character: “Satan delights in war, for it excites the worst passions of the soul” (The Great Controversy, p. 589, 1911). Soldiers, who might once have been honorable, find themselves surrounded by vice and brutality. As Sr. White explains, “Among the soldiers, there are men that have fine feelings…it is very hard for them to endure” the degradation that war brings (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 365, 1860). War becomes a stage for the expression of humanity’s darkest instincts, creating an environment where moral decay is inevitable. The moral degradation that accompanies war distracts individuals from their spiritual calling, as their minds are focused on survival, not salvation. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33, KJV), and “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3, KJV). Sr. White observes that “Workers for Christ are never to think, much less to speak, of failure in their work. The Lord Jesus is our efficiency in all things; His Spirit is to be our inspiration” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 7, p. 38, 1902), and “All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 668, 1898). The community must resist moral corruption. But how does war lead to reliance on deceptive spirits?

DECEPTIVE INFLUENCES

War leads many to rely on deceptive spiritual influences, further separating them from God. Sr. White reveals that many military leaders, especially during the Civil War, were deceived by spirits claiming to be the souls of past generals, who gave them false hope and guidance. She writes, “Very many men in authority…act in conformity with instructions communicated by spirits…they direct their armies to trust in the only One who can deliver them from their enemies, but instead, they inquire of the prince of devils and trust in him” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, pp. 363-365, 1860). This deception causes people to place their trust in demonic entities rather than God, leading them deeper into spiritual ruin. The reliance on such deceptive influences demonstrates Satan’s pervasive strategy in using war to draw people away from God’s truth and into darkness. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8, KJV), and “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11, KJV). Sr. White cautions that “The intelligence displayed by many dumb animals approaches so closely to human intelligence that it is a mystery. The animals see and hear and love and fear and suffer” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 315, 1905), and “What man with a human heart, who has ever cared for domestic animals, could look into their eyes, so full of confidence and affection, and willingly give them over to the butcher’s knife?” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 316, 1905). The community must discern true guidance. But how do we remain steadfast amid decay?

STEADFAST AMID DECAY

During such moral and spiritual decay, God’s people are called to remain steadfast, refusing to engage in war or any activity that violates their conscience and God’s laws. Ellen G. White makes it clear that God’s people cannot serve both earthly powers and divine principles. She asserts, “In the army, they cannot obey the truth and at the same time obey the requirements of their officers. There would be a continual violation of conscience” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 361, 1860). We are called to uphold the ten precepts of God, which serve as the foundation for all righteous laws, even if it means standing in opposition to the world’s systems. Our loyalty must lie with God, not with the commands of worldly authorities that contradict divine principles. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7, KJV), and “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). Sr. White declares that “But God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and the Bible only, as the standard of all doctrines and the basis of all reforms” (The Great Controversy, p. 595, 1911), and “The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name” (Education, p. 57, 1903). The community must uphold divine law. But how do we balance obedience to earthly authorities with God’s law?

OBEDIENCE BALANCE

While we are called to remain separate from the corrupting influences of war, we are also instructed to render obedience to earthly authorities if it does not conflict with God’s law. Jesus’ counsel in Matthew 22:21 and Paul’s teaching in Romans 13:1-4 highlight this balance between obeying God and respecting civil authorities. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21, KJV), and “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God” (Romans 13:1, KJV). Sr. White affirms that “We need to have far less confidence in what man can do and far more confidence in what God can do for every believing soul” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 146, 1900), and “Talk unbelief, and you will have unbelief; but talk faith, and you will have faith. According to the seed sown will be the harvest” (Education, p. 253, 1903). The community must navigate allegiance wisely. But how do we prioritize God’s law when human laws conflict?

GOD OVER GOVERNMENT

The Bible instructs us to respect and obey earthly authorities, as Jesus stated in Matthew 22:21, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.” However, when these laws conflict with divine commandments, we are called to follow God’s higher law. Romans 13:1-4 emphasizes that authorities are established by God, but this authority must not lead to disobedience against God’s commands. Ellen G. White supports this view by stating, “The powers that be are ordained of God, but we are not to obey them contrary to God’s law” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 719, 1890). Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29, KJV), and “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock” (Matthew 7:24, KJV). Sr. White reflects that “In matters of conscience, the majority has no power” (The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 68-69, 1911), and “It is our duty in every case to obey the laws of our land, unless they conflict with the higher law” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 1, p. 361, 1860). The community must balance duty to God and government. But what happens when human laws contradict divine ones?

ALLEGIANCE TO GOD

When human laws contradict divine laws, the Bible is clear about where our allegiance should lie. Acts 5:29 recounts how Peter and the apostles responded to authorities forbidding them to preach the gospel, declaring, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” This principle has guided Christians throughout history, including during the Reformation, when we faced governmental decrees that sought to restrict our religious freedom. Ellen G. White reflects on this historical struggle, saying, “In matters of conscience, the majority has no power” (The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 68-69, 1911). This unwavering stand for God’s law continues to apply today, as we are called to remain loyal to divine principles, even when human authorities oppose them. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me” (Hebrews 13:6, KJV), and “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” (Isaiah 41:10, KJV). Sr. White explains that “The Scriptures clearly indicate the relation between God and Christ, and they bring to view as clearly the personality and individuality of each” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 8, p. 268, 1904), and “Those who have united with the Lord in the covenant of service are under bonds to unite with Him in the great, grand work of soul saving” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 7, p. 19, 1902). The community must stand loyal to God. But do we defy government unnecessarily?

RESPECT FOR LAWS

Despite the necessity to obey God above all, we are not called to defy government unnecessarily. We are to respect the laws of the land, as long as those laws do not conflict with God’s commandments. Ellen G. White writes, “It is our duty in every case to obey the laws of our land, unless they conflict with the higher law” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 361, 1860). She emphasizes that those who have God’s law written in their hearts will obey God above men and will “sooner disobey all men than deviate in the least from the commandment of God” (p. 361). In the context of defense and national security, we may support our country, but not if it conflicts with God’s law, as illustrated in Deuteronomy 17:14-16 and 2 Chronicles 20:21, which encourage reliance on God’s guidance rather than solely on human strength. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:19, KJV), and “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5, KJV). Sr. White describes that “God is the source of life and light and joy to the universe. Like rays of light from the sun, like the streams of living water bursting from a living spring, blessings flow out from Him to all His creatures” (Steps to Christ, p. 77, 1892), and “A life in Christ is a life of restfulness” (Steps to Christ, p. 70, 1892). The community must rely on God’s guidance. But why is the narrow path difficult?

NARROW PATH CHALLENGES

The narrow path of obedience to God is not without difficulty. It requires steadfast faith and sacrifice, as shown in Sr. White’s vision where travelers on the narrow path had to leave behind their possessions and rely entirely on God for guidance (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, pp. 594-597, 1868). This journey represents the trials we face in maintaining our faith amid worldly pressures. Only those willing to endure hardships and remain faithful to God’s commands will be found faithful in the end. As Sr. White observes, “Those who would rather die than perform a wrong act are the only ones who will be found faithful” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 53, 1889). Thus, the narrow path symbolizes a life of commitment to God, where obedience to His law takes precedence over all else. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat” (Matthew 7:13, KJV), and “Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:14, KJV). Sr. White teaches that “Remember that you will never reach a higher standard than you yourself set. Then set your mark high, and step by step, even though it be by painful effort, by self-denial and sacrifice, ascend the whole length of the ladder of progress” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 331, 1900), and “The closer you come to Jesus, the more faulty you will appear in your own eyes; for your vision will be clearer, and your imperfections will be seen in broad and distinct contrast to His perfect nature” (Steps to Christ, p. 64, 1892). The community must endure faithfully. But what is our ultimate responsibility?

ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY

While we are commanded to obey earthly authorities, we are ultimately responsible to God. Human laws must be respected, but only within the context of God’s higher law. When conflicts arise, as they inevitably will in a world that often opposes divine principles, we are called to stand firm in our faith. As Sr. White asserts, “God leads His people on, step by step…at every advanced point the heart is tested and tried a little closer” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 187, 1860). This testing refines us, ensuring that only those fully committed to obeying God, no matter the cost, will be prepared for His return. Therefore, as followers of Christ, our earnest desire should be to walk this narrow way, seeking God’s will and remaining faithful to His commandments. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7, KJV), and “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33, KJV). Sr. White encourages that “It is the privilege of every Christian, not only to look for, but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 69, 1900), and “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195, 1898). The community must seek the narrow way. But what should our earnest desire be in following the ancient paths?

WALK IN TRUTH

The question presented in Jeremiah 6:16 asks, “What should our earnest desire be?” The verse urges us to seek the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it. Our earnest desire should be to follow the narrow way that leads to life, not the broad road that leads to destruction. This path requires constant reflection on our spiritual journey, ensuring we are walking in line with God’s truth and not engaging in the war of the world below. As we walk this narrow way, we are called to live with humility, love, and a desire for God’s truth in every aspect of our lives. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls” (Jeremiah 6:16, KJV), and “The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just” (Isaiah 26:7, KJV). Sr. White supports this idea of walking in the narrow way by contrasting the true teachings of Christ with the errors of Pharisaism (The Desire of Ages, p. 819-820, 1898), and “Christ was satisfied to do His work without the use of arms, demonstrating that real greatness does not require outward displays of force” (The Desire of Ages, p. 242-243, 1898). The community must reject divisive practices. But how do we reject temptations of power?

REJECT POWER TEMPTATIONS

Our choice to walk in the narrow way is also a decision to reject the temptations of power and violence. Sr. White writes that Christ was satisfied to do His work without the use of arms, demonstrating that real greatness does not require outward displays of force (The Desire of Ages, p. 242-243, 1898). This principle is crucial for our walk on the narrow path, where the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, is our only weapon (The Adventist Home, p. 180, 1952). Just as Christ chose the path of humility and peace, so must we. This is a stark contrast to the broad path, where worldly wars and the pursuit of dominance characterize those who stray from God’s will. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2 Corinthians 10:4, KJV), and “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes that “He who becomes a child of God should henceforth look upon himself as a link in the chain let down to save the world, one with Christ in His plan of mercy, going forth with Him to seek and save the lost” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 105, 1905), and “All may find something to do. None need feel that there is no place where they can labor for Christ” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 104, 1905). The community must choose humility. But are we truly walking the narrow way?

NARROW WAY COMMITMENT

The narrow way that Jeremiah 6:16 calls us to walk is one that involves following the example of Christ, rejecting the errors of self-righteousness and worldly power. We must meditate on God’s word day and night, allowing the sword of the Spirit to guide our actions. The decision to walk this path demands continuous self-examination and reliance on God’s truth. Are we truly walking in the narrow way, or are we in the abyss below, engaging in spiritual war? The choice lies before us, and it is one that shapes our eternal destiny. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105, KJV), and “This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left” (Isaiah 30:21, KJV). Sr. White notes that “We are not, as Christians, doing one-twentieth part that we might do in winning souls to Christ” (The Review and Herald, August 23, 1881), and “So far as his opportunities extend, everyone who has received the light of truth is under the same responsibility as was the prophet of Israel” (Testimonies for the Church Vol. 9, pp. 19-20, 1909). The community must choose the eternal path.

DUTY TO GOD FIRST

The Christian’s duty to obey God must always take precedence over allegiance to earthly authorities. The Bible makes it clear that while we are called to respect human governments, we must never compromise God’s law for the sake of man’s commands. As Peter boldly declared in Acts 5:29, “We ought to obey God rather than men,” providing a strong foundation for Christian obedience to divine authority above all else. Ellen G. White echoes this sentiment, asserting that “it is our duty in every case to obey the laws of our land, unless they conflict with the higher law” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 361, 1860). This evidence reinforces the principle that while Christians live in the world, their ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom. When conflicts arise, we must be willing to stand firm in our faith, even at personal cost. This unyielding loyalty to God ensures that we are prepared for the final test of faith, which will determine our readiness for Christ’s return. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, KJV), and “Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces” (Psalm 122:7, KJV). Sr. White affirms that “Even under false accusation those who are in the right can afford to be calm and considerate. God is acquainted with all that is misunderstood and misinterpreted by men, and we can safely leave our case in His hands” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 520, 1890), and “Thus God will destroy the wicked from off the earth. But the righteous will be preserved in the midst of these commotions, as Noah was preserved in the ark” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 101, 1890). Ultimately, the path of obedience, though narrow and fraught with challenges, leads to eternal life and victory for those who remain faithful to God’s commandments.

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3, KJV).

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