Q: Are the writings of Ellen White mere counsels or doctrinal? Is it wrong to study Ellen White’s writing and follow the standards set before us? As a youth who wants to learn more, I am desperate for answers. Please do help me. — Genalyn, from the Philippines
A: The writings of Ellen G. White, also known as the Spirit of Prophecy, are a wonderful gift that God has given to His last day remnant church. As it states in our Fundamental Belief No. 18: “One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is prophecy. This gift is an identifying mark of the remnant church and was manifested in the ministry of Ellen G. White. As the Lord’s messenger, her writings are a continuing and authoritative source of truth which provide for the church comfort, guidance, instruction, and correction. They also make clear that the Bible is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. (Joel 2:28, 29; Acts 2:14-21; Heb. 1:1-3; Rev. 12:17; 19:10).
For more on this wonderful gift, I invite you to watch or read my sermon, “Believe His Prophets: Why I Accept Ellen G. White’s Prophetic Ministry” that I gave at the Pioneer Memorial Church at Andrews University. Here is the sermon in a Q&A format.