The Orchard Test
What did Jesus say in the Sermon on the Mount about how true prophets can be identified? Matt. 7:20.
The context of this statement is Jesus’ warning to the disciples to beware of false prophets (Matt. 7:15). Jesus applied the principle—that a good tree bears good fruit—to the life of the prophets. What kind of fruit do they bring forth? What influence do their teachings have on others?
The orchard test takes time. Ellen White lived and worked for seventy years under the critical eyes of millions of people, largely skeptical, doubtful, suspicious, and in some cases openly hostile. Errors, faults, and inconsistencies were and still are exposed with great satisfaction by her opponents. God alone is flawless; His messengers never are.
What do these texts tell us about the character flaws of some of those who had the prophetic gift? Gen. 12:12, 13; Jonah 1:1-3; Acts 15:36–39; Gal. 2:11–14.
Being a prophet, of course, does not make a person infallible or sinless. Mrs. White made mistakes and had character weaknesses, as did other people, but the trend of her life was such that at her death a local non-Adventist newspaper reported, “The life of Mrs. White is an example worthy of emulation by all. . . . She was a humble, devout disciple of Christ and ever went about doing good. . . . Her death marks the calling of another noted leader of religious thought and one whose almost ninety years were full to overflowing with good deeds, kind words and earnest prayers for all mankind.”—“Called to Her reward,” St. Helena Star (Calif.), July 23, 1915.
Some people have difficulties accepting her prophetic ministry because they stumble over certain details of her writings but fail to see the bigger picture: the way God used her to raise up this church; the many wonderful insights she received from God; and the contributions she has made to this church. What are the great advantages of having the prophetic gift manifested among us? What are potential challenges it brings?
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