12:2Romans 12:2

Romans 12:2 commands not taking the pattern, customs, ideas and practices of this world but being transformed by the renewing of the mind so as to prove, discern and live out what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.7T 75.1+2 It belongs with presenting the body as a living, holy and acceptable sacrifice to God as reasonable service, bringing every power and habit into harmony with His requirements.CH 384.1+2 That transformation is a real inward conversion to a new heart and new life, wrought by the Holy Spirit when the mind is submitted to His control in union with Christ.Lt 84, 1899, par. 6–8+3 Refusing conformity means living as a distinct and separate people, rejecting the world's principles, spirit, selfishness and indulgence, and conforming instead to Christ and the standard of God's Word.19MR 157.1–3+4 Proving God's will is a personal experience in this probationary time, gained by full consecration and obedience, and it enables clear discernment between good and evil for useful service.Ms 100, 1901, par. 2–5+4

The command forbids taking the pattern, customs, plans, ideas and practices of this world and requires instead being transformed by the renewing of the mind, so as to prove, discern, recognize, approve, demonstrate and live out what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.7T 75.1+4 Renewal of the mind gives a changed life rather than a world-shaped life, enabling recognition and following of that will.7T 75.1+2 The pattern refused is the world's, and the change sought is inward renewal issuing in discernment and obedience.CTBH 15.1+2

The verse belongs with presenting the body as a living, holy and acceptable sacrifice to God as reasonable service and worship.CH 384.1+4 That presenting and this transforming go together in one appeal, with refusal of conformity and renewal of mind proving by personal experience what God wills.Ms 187, 1901, par. 15+2 The high standard is attainable, and its power lies not in self but in receiving Christ and believing on Him, who laid aside royal robes, crown, throne and glory, clothed divinity with humanity, and was afflicted with human afflictions to understand temptation and become a faithful judge of the conflict with satanic agencies, thereby giving power to become sons of God.Ms 180, 1901, par. 1–4 The same context joins the command to the principles of Christian fellowship as members of the heavenly family, helping and strengthening one another and overcoming evil with good as Christ overcame in order to win heaven and sit with Him in His throne.Ms 100, 1901, par. 2–5 Putting on Christ rather than providing for fleshly desires, and bringing every power and habit into harmony with God's requirements, is the reasonable service the verse calls for.CH 384.1+2

The verse is an appeal by the mercies of God, a warning, a command through Paul for human good, and a solemn exhortation containing wonderful truths.Ms 187, 1901, par. 15+3 It is sacred and binding, yet few professed Christians heed it, and it is to be carefully studied, received, practiced and made a guide for labor, not merely read.Ms 59, 1900, par. 5+1 It is given to build a wall around the people to keep them from transgression so that blessing and love can be bestowed in rich measure, by refusing conformity to a world where iniquity abounds and little of God and heaven is seen.Ms 66, 1899, par. 9–12 That transformation keeps the intellect unimpaired and is proved by actions showing desire to enter the kingdom, by bringing all heaven possible into home, church and school with no perversity, stubbornness or disobedience, while realizing the Holy Spirit, as much a person as God is a person, is present as Keeper and Helper hearing every word and knowing every thought.Ms 66, 1899, par. 9–12 It lays religious duty on every person and the whole church to study and obey in bodily life, with those caring for patients standing as watchful sentinels urging obedience, and its obeying is the way to increase in faith and righteousness and to grow up in Christ the living Head, each member doing distinct work fitted to capability so all blend in a complete whole.1MR 284.2+1

The whole chapter is history for all churches and instruction of high value that calls the work of God to a higher plane of action.Ms 158, 1907, par. 5–6 Its cautions and exhortations are to be studied prayerfully and brought into life practice, calling workers to daily conversion rather than holding inherited or cultivated wrong tendencies and trying to rule one another.15MR 57.4–58.1+1 All holding position as shepherds are to represent the great Shepherd, and masterly, dominating, ruling power over the people is forbidden as a strange and dangerous element not of God, another gospel and not the righteousness of Christ, which must no longer be allowed because it spoils the church.Ms 158, 1907, par. 5–6 The chapter thus bears on converted intellects, Christ as indwelling presence, sober thinking of self according to the measure of faith, functioning as many members in one body in Christ with differing gifts of prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, ruling and mercy, and practicing love without dissimulation, brotherly kindness, diligence, hope, patience, prayer and hospitality, without which workers remain enemies of Christ.Lt 350, 1907, par. 13–17

The chapter makes God's will for the church in every place plain, calling believers with variety of gifts to be brought into the building of the temple of the Lord with each finding its proper place to grow into a holy temple.Lt 97, 1898, par. 13–16 Those so built are not to shut themselves within themselves but to love one another as brethren with kindness and courtesy.Lt 97, 1898, par. 13–16 They are to be careful not to put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in a brother's way.Lt 97, 1898, par. 13–16

Together with offering self to God, this is a lesson for members of the church to study, applying to ministers as well as other believers.Ms 167, 1899, par. 17–18+1 It applies to ministers and workers in watching the religious life diligently lest it be perverted by self-exalted ideas, since profession alone is of no avail.Ms 137, 1907, par. 8–9 Joined to the next verse it forbids thinking of self more highly than ought to be thought and requires sober thinking according to the measure of faith given, with the whole twelfth chapter educational to be studied, understood and brought into life practice as testimony against the danger of exalting self, a self-deception that will prove the ruin of some who once knew the truth.Ms 137, 1907, par. 8–9

Service is owed because human beings belong to God by creation and redemption, life itself comes from Him, men and women are not their own but His property purchased by the costly offering on Calvary, and the body is therefore to be treated as His property brought under the control of the Spirit.ST Jan 21, 1897+3 Presenting the body as a living, holy and acceptable sacrifice is reasonable service that brings honor to God, and a renewed mind and body no longer governed by lustful passions makes it possible to discern and live out His good and acceptable and perfect will, with bodily purity and self-control essential to mental and spiritual vigor and to fitness as a temple for the Holy Spirit.ST Jan 21, 1897+2 The consecrated heart, conscience, affections and purchased body are to be given to Him and kept in sanctification and holiness.Lt 90, 1898, par. 21–23+1

Presenting the body means offering it without blemish, just as every sacrifice in the ancient service had to be without blemish, bringing no blemish upon body or soul.Ms 26, 1887, par. 1–3+1 Human beings are fearfully and wonderfully made, and as sons and daughters of God they are to preserve the faculties and powers of mind and body in the best condition and make the best use of the faculties and talents given them.Ms 26, 1887, par. 1–3+1 Wrong habits and perverted appetites that weaken those powers make it impossible to honor God as required, decrease power of influence, and leave the person imperfect.Ms 26, 1887, par. 1–3+1

The verse requires giving the whole body and life to God in unreserved surrender and complete service, refusing to be shaped by this world in affections and habits while being made new in mind so as to test and know by experience His good and acceptable and perfect will and His mind.1T 693.2+1 It demands loosing the grasp on this world in order to take true and safe hold of the better world, for God will not accept half a sacrifice.1T 693.2+1 Every soul is given opportunity for this personal experimental knowledge of acceptable service, letting Him accept, cleanse, purify and sanctify the surrendered whole being to Himself, a great and necessary work without which no one can see His face, while with it the life demonstrates the reality of true service.1T 693.2+1

The consecrated life restores God's moral image in soul, body and spirit by bringing appetite and every practice into harmony with Christ's will and by rejecting worldly standards and customs through renewal of the mind.19MR 214.1+1 Transformation therefore includes health reform and denial of intemperate appetite, since indulged appetite brings weakness and disease, weakens moral power, and unfits a person to appreciate sacred truth and the value of the atonement essential to salvation.1T 693.2+1 Christ's redeeming power places people on vantage ground for freedom from the bondage wrought by Adam's fall, for He began redemption where ruin began, upon appetite, conquering where Satan had led man to spoil soul, body and spirit.Lt 90, 1898, par. 21–23

Entire obedience is required of those who accept Christ as Saviour, presenting the body as a living, holy, acceptable sacrifice, refusing to be copied to the world, cherishing no sinful practice, thinking soberly and humbly of self according to the measure of faith, and being changed by a renewed mind so as to know and prove God's will.RH Jun 11, 1901 Continuing in sin while professing Christ misrepresents Him and puts Him to open shame.RH Jun 11, 1901

This change belongs to presenting oneself to God in response to His mercy and is carried out in practical daily conduct according to His mind, not taking the world's pattern but discerning and approving His will.Ms 95, 1902, par. 17–19+1 It means laying oneself with all the powers and affections of mind and heart upon God's altar to do His will, being converted in principle, and by appropriating the abundant grace Christ has provided learning to reflect His light by working out His character in the life.Ms 95, 1902, par. 17–19+2

With its context the verse calls for giving Christ the whole heart and undivided affections, yielding all and giving up all with no reserve, not asking how little can be given to obtain reward nor seeking the lowest standard, but aiming at perfect conformity to the will of the Redeemer with ardent desire and zeal proportionate to the value of eternal life and immortality pursued.Lt 83, 1898, par. 4–5+1 This total self-denial is owed in deepest gratitude because Christ gave all at Calvary, where the hands and feet of the Deliverer were torn by cruel nails that sinners washed by His blood might be purified and cleansed from sin by mercy and saved from death by matchless love, receiving a sin-polluted soul to throw around it His arms of mercy under the constraining love of God.1T 160.1–3 The life given as a living offering is accepted, sustained and used by Him in humility, trust and reverent obedience while God works His own will within for the glory of His name, with self sunk in Christ, all glory given to God, wisdom and divine power supplied for service, and every entrusted capability carried as a sacred treasure to impart received knowledge and grace to others as Christ spent His life doing the will of God from the heart.Lt 83, 1898, par. 4–5+1

Full consecration brings transformation of the mind enabling a person to answer the high calling through Christ.CWP 9.4–10.1+1 It requires daily conversion by humbling the heart before God and fully consecrating it to Him, learning what it means to serve Him daily, awaking and arising to walk humbly in the way of the Lord in whole-hearted consecration, exercised unto godliness, and receiving great privileges, blessings and great light.CWP 9.4–10.1+1 Conforming to the world must be guarded against because it separates the affections from God, so the mind must be kept directed toward Him.Lt 15, 1875, par. 5–7+1 God wants entire consecration of every faculty of the mind and every power of the being from all who profess Christ and a coming higher into His direct presence, because a crisis greater than any since the world began is coming.Lt 15, 1875, par. 5–7+1

When this presenting of the body is done, glorifying God in body and spirit which are God's, every promise of God will be fulfilled.Ms 66, 1899, par. 21 Walking in the footsteps of Jesus makes an obedient people who keep the windows of the soul opened heavenward and so receive the light, peace and joy of heaven.Ms 66, 1899, par. 21

The verse forbids copying the moral looseness of the world and requires giving the body to God in purity and holiness by those who have received light and mercy.SLP 27.2 The renewing of the mind puts God back in the thoughts instead of an idol, turns away from known sin and bodily defilement, and stops leading others by example to treat sin lightly.SLP 27.2 This change proves what is good and acceptable and perfect in the will of God by cleansing all filthiness of flesh and spirit and perfecting holiness in the fear of God.SLP 27.2

God's people must not be shaped by this world but be changed by a renewed mind so they can discern and live out what is good and acceptable and perfect in God's will.Ms 104, 1894, par. 1+1 They are to be a holy people unto the Lord, a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people called out of darkness into marvelous light to show forth His praises by living unconformed to the world.Ms 104, 1894, par. 1 They are to keep a distinct and separate character as God's peculiar people, refusing the world's principles, customs, practices, spirit, ways of thinking and acting, and selfishness.4T 582.3+2 They are to seek a higher spiritual standard and keep growing in character so as to be fit for the heavenly city, letting a godly life witness against evil.YGBCOEP 8.2–3+1 Those with long experience must use entrusted talents to set this example, denying appetite and refusing dress by the world's standard, sanctifying themselves and connecting closely with heaven when iniquity prevails, for the tide of moral evil comes with power to sweep away all whose feet do not stand firmly on the rock Christ Jesus.4T 582.3 Many who once proclaimed the third angel's message are adopting the world's practices, customs, and selfishness until the difference from worldlings is nearly gone, joining the world in disobedience instead of leading to obedience to God's law.8T 118.4–119.1

Godliness requires conforming to Christ's mind and will and to the standard of God's Word, not to the world's standards or one's own.19MR 157.1–3+1 A life changed by truth shows the heart and mind have been changed, enabling recognition of God's good, acceptable, and perfect will, as part of unreserved surrender and preparation to meet one's record with joy.19MR 157.1–3+1 Refusing conformity means coming out from the world and being separate, repenting and being converted so sins are blotted out, drawing near to God and presenting the body a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God.Lt 30, 1902, par. 2 By uniting the human will with the Lord the strong defiant unsanctified will is subdued and broken from Satan's power and molded and fashioned after the divine likeness, proving in the life what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.Lt 30, 1902, par. 2

Believers must give themselves wholly to God and allow the mind to be renewed so as to recognize and follow God's will, refusing worldly friendship and desire for approval from opposers of truth.2T 492.1+1 Truth cannot be embraced while retaining the spirit of the world, and this inward renewal produces a distinct life.2T 492.1+1 Entire consecration and separation are demanded from the world and from dead, heartless professors, refusing to copy their appearance and company and their contentment with just enough religion to stay agreeable and avoid censure.ST Feb 19, 1880+2 The transformed life is a self-denying narrow strait way that gives up all, and those claiming a heavenly inheritance must choose between friendship with the world and loyalty to God as revealed by life and fruits, with complete consecration and obedience bringing rich reward for an obedient life.1T 240.2+2 This demand is not too strict because Christ gave far more, and when the way feels too hard the answer is to look at His agony in the garden sweating blood, His strengthening by an angel, His mocking and insult in the judgment hall, the purple robe and coarse jests, the crown of thorns driven by a reed till blood flowed, the mob crying for His blood, His pale weak fainting walk to crucifixion, the nails in hands and feet on the wooden cross, and the hours of agony till angels veiled their faces and the sun hid its light, which puts any human self-denial in the shade.ST Feb 19, 1880+2

Not being conformed means refusing life-destroying indulgence of inordinate appetite for unhealthful things, refusing to join extremists in pleasure and selfish gratification who are lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, and refusing to be swayed by common opinions and modes of thinking and practice even when serving God brings collision.Ms 140, 1897, par. 1–3 Indulged perverted taste grows until gratifying it becomes second nature, and following the world sacrifices health and truth and righteousness and life eternal, while being transformed means presenting the body a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God, remembering life comes from God and humans are not their own but God's property.Ms 140, 1897, par. 1–3 Transformation requires self-renunciation and enables living by God's will, and outward show and reliance on worldly standards oppose this change.Lt 52, 1900, par. 11–13 It amounts to no good to live for this world and be conformed to its practices and customs; one must give God best and holiest affections and love Him with purity, simplicity, and fervency because He first loved and has given unmistakable evidences of matchless love, for to live for heaven pays with sure reward in the end and present happiness and peace.Lt 52, 1900, par. 11–13+1

Conformity to the world brings departure of God's Spirit, and a humble holy life shown in dress, speech, and actions shows Christ formed within and prepares for salvation and the kingdom.RH Jun 10, 1852 As God's people adopt the world's ways they lose distinctiveness and the transforming influence of the Spirit, and may still profess truth while growing spiritually weaker, blind, and unaware that God's presence has withdrawn.Lt 16, 1861, par. 19–21+1 As the world's spirit takes hold in the heart, love for God and desire for communion grow cold, spiritual blindness follows, discernment between good and evil is lost, longing for truth and salvation ceases, and worldly influence controls the life.RH Apr 6, 1916 Conformity divides the heart, weakens spiritual growth, and hides the evidence of discipleship in Christ's self-denial and cross-bearing, extending to conduct, dress, language, and use of money, for holiness is not a distinctive outfit but a life that does not imitate worldly practices.LSEGW 350.3–4+1

Conformity comes not suddenly but gradually and stealthily like a thief moving closer and still closer, surely stealing away identity and bearings by leading brethren to adopt worldly policies.1MR 244.4+1 A worldly policy in managing God's institutions is forbidden conformity, leaving the right way plainly specified from the beginning as if counsels had never been given, and weaving threads of selfishness into the web breaks right relation to God who will help, uplift, and do great things only when His people so relate to Him that He can, and will not serve with them while selfishness is woven into His work.1MR 244.4+1 The church has thereby conformed to the world and lived in transgression of God's holy law.Ms 96, 1902, par. 6–7+1 Refusing the world's mold is refusing to let Satan mold the mind after his deceiving likeness to work his will to ruin the soul, for when the mind is not under the direct influence of the Spirit he molds it as he chooses and carnalizes all the rational powers he controls.5MR 361.1–2 Being transformed is having real religion as an abiding principle in the heart working outward to mold external conduct until the entire being is conformed to Christ's image and even thoughts are brought into subjection to His mind, creating an atmosphere around the soul healthful or deleterious to all around whether believers or unbelievers.5MR 361.1–2

Not being conformed but being transformed to prove what is good and acceptable to God is a principle that those appointed by God must carefully study and do in small matters as well as large.Lt 126, 1898, par. 24–25+1 Only as they work humbly and seek wisdom from God will they continue to be sustained and used as His instruments, while failure to do the Word leaves them in positive danger of being weakened by Satan and exalted in own opinion.Lt 126, 1898, par. 24–25+1 In this most solemn time failure in nonconformity is fatal, for only a small portion now professing truth will be sanctified by it and be saved.1T 608.3 Many get above simplicity, conform to the world, cherish idols, and become spiritually dead, while humble self-sacrificing followers refuse conformity and pass on to perfection, leaving behind the indifferent and lovers of the world.1T 608.3

Christ was not conformed to the world but lived out God's teachings without adopting worldly ways while remaining attentive to people's needs.Ms 132, 1902, par. 13+1 In Him this means zeal without passion, consistency without obstinacy, benevolence without weakness, tenderness and sympathy without sentimentalism, high sociability with reserved dignity that does not encourage undue familiarity, and temperance without bigotry or austerity.18MR 115.2 It means separation from the world without indifference to the wants of the least, staying awake to the needs of all.Ms 132, 1902, par. 13+1 Conformity is a dangerous spiritual condition shown by indifference to truth and resistance to repentance; instead one is to turn fully to God and follow Christ's overcoming of self-indulgence, vanity, and worldly honor even when it brings conflict or reproach.STSE 59.1–60.1

Being transformed by the renewing of the mind means conversion, a real inward change to a new heart, a new nature and a changed life.3T 230.2–231.2+4 Mere profession, correct speech, outward activity, enthusiasm or fanaticism is not this change, and without it there is no hope and no standing amid the perils of the last days.2T 185.2–186.1+2 A hardened heart kept in selfishness and neglect of duty, disobedience and disrespect, and a nature unrenewed and unsubmitted to God show the transformation has not taken place.3T 230.2–231.2+2 The change requires the mind of Christ and transforming grace to prove and experience God's good and acceptable and perfect will in a pure and holy character and life representing Christ.Lt 33, 1868, par. 2+1 It is sanctification through the truth and must be experienced, reforming even speech so that a renewed heart sanctifies the tongue away from gossip, careless words and harmful talk.2T 185.2–186.1+1

Renewing corrects defects of character and strengthens weak powers of mind, bringing the lower qualities under control of the higher.1T 704.2–705.1 Truth taking hold of the heart works thorough reformation, and this transformation is sanctification through the truth by the influence of the divine Spirit upon heart and life.1T 704.2–705.1+1 The change leaves no room for keeping inherited or cultivated sharp traits of character.Lt 56, 1893, par. 14–15 It refuses self-indulgent worldly practices including making appetite a god, and healing does not remove the need for restraint and obedience.Ms 113, 1898, par. 9–10 It belongs with presenting the body as a holy living sacrifice and with thinking soberly.Lt 56, 1893, par. 14–15+1

God's comprehensive requirement is to be like Him, representing in life the life and character of Christ as the holy pattern, and the transformation by the renewing of the mind produces a new creature from whom rough and uncomely traits are removed.Lt 6, 1880, par. 55–56 If after profession there remain fretfulness, peevishness, faultfinding, envy, evil surmisings, jealousy and impure thoughts, the character is unchanged and reveals the satanic rather than the divine, showing Satan still has power over mind, affections and character.Lt 6, 1880, par. 55–56 Renewal means complete change in which Christ's meek and lowly spirit replaces pride, self-sufficiency and desire for supremacy.Lt 14, 1888, par. 14–15 It turns a person from setting personal will above God's will to honoring God's authority as supreme, and from using talents to glorify self to consecrating every faculty, body, time and strength to God's service.Lt 14, 1888, par. 14–15 When through lack of watchfulness such a one falls, true sorrow leads to greater humility and vigilance against temptation with a steady desire to imitate Jesus.Lt 14, 1888, par. 14–15

Being converted means the life is no longer ruled by selfishness but is transformed through the renewing of the mind.Lt 29, 1872, par. 10–13 Genuine conversion transforms character, creates new purposes and new moral tastes, and overcomes defects of character as truth with its sanctifying power brings the entire person into obedience to Christ.Lt 6b, 1890, par. 9 The renewed mind takes deceptive gloss from the eyes and gives eyes enlightened to look into the heart, test motives, weigh every move, see clearly and reject self-deception, keeping Satan from putting false coloring on actions.MDHRP 25.4–26.1+1 Instead of seeking to control others, picking flaws, finding fault and building up self, inward conversion subdues self by humbleness of mind and turns decidedly to the right.MDHRP 25.4–26.1 This requires humble confession and earnest, decisive effort to right wrongs as far as possible and do away the reproach brought upon the cause of God, and only so can one do good and come into the light.MDHRP 25.4–26.1+1

The verse means inward conversion shown in controlling speech, raising the affections, devoting mental and physical powers to Christ the Redeemer, and making thoughts and feelings holy so every action harmonizes with God.2T 82.1+2 When tempted to passionate, unruly words one pauses and prays rather than giving way.2T 82.1 Feeling some influence of God's Spirit, assuming oneself righteous, or receiving truth without its taking hold to transform the mind does not accomplish this and leaves reformation unwrought in the soul.2T 174.1+1 True change is inward renewal not outward reform alone, with penitence that includes change of mind and spirit and breaks cherished love of sin.Ms 15, 1884, par. 15–16+1 It brings true recognition of sinful ways and purification, cleansing and sanctification through obedience to the truth, so outward conduct matches profession and light is discerned from darkness.Ms 15, 1884, par. 15–16+2

The whole mind and soul must be made new before one can be perfect in righteousness.Lt 201, 1908, par. 4–5 A mind controlled by unsanctified desires is changed into the likeness of the evil agencies controlling it, serving its own unsanctified heart without understanding its own spirit.Lt 201, 1908, par. 4–5 Renewal requires conversion and new birth by giving self to the Lord by covenant, and unless this takes place one will never pass through the gates of the holy city, while upon surrender God lets His light shine into the perplexed, confused mind.Lt 201, 1908, par. 4–5 Divine grace so transforming the soul by renewing the mind and changing human nature becomes visible in a fruitful, holy and irreproachable life honoring God and serving others, following Christ so others see the power of truth.Lt 7, 1869, par. 8 Claims of transformation have no weight without the Spirit's fruits of love, patience, meekness and self-control, and mere form with selfishness and strife marks an unprofitable, slothful servant.Lt 7, 1869, par. 8+1

Heart and character must be transformed from within, not merely acknowledged in words.Ms 37, 1886, par. 42–43 Transforming grace replaces old affections with holy love for God, bringing mind and body into His service, enlightening the soul and cultivating, refining and sanctifying spiritual taste to seek and obey truth.Ms 37, 1886, par. 42–43 This inward renewal changes governing principles and shapes the whole course of life now and forever.Ms 37, 1886, par. 42–43 Service of God is first service of the mind, and transformation is the first element of Christianity, receiving another mind in place of the natural mind, the mind of Jesus Christ, in simple plain conversion experience.Ms 178, 1901, par. 55 That transformation stands opposed to methods that control or manipulate the mind.Ms 178, 1901, par. 55

The verse means resting the soul on the Saviour in complete submission, not blended with the world or molded after its likeness, growing in grace and love to the full stature of a man in Christ.Lt 119, 1904, par. 3–5 It means refusing to be drawn away from Jesus into temptation, learning constantly of Him as safeguard, assurance and happiness, and having peace and joy in resting on His power to save to the uttermost all who come to Him.Lt 119, 1904, par. 3–5 A renewed mind brings thorough conversion and entire change of life shown in reformed character and in making right as far as possible wrongs done to others.Ms 1, 1868, par. 10 Without that correction the natural tendency prevails, as in Judas, leaving every soul where Christ does not abide in spiritual blindness, while deceiving and being deceived go forward amid deceptive influences until the close of time.Lt 65, 1897, par. 23

Yet a person can be transformed even from long-indulged, deeply rooted selfishness and an overbearing spirit.Lt 4, 1870, par. 7–8 The way is seeing wrongs and their sinfulness and laboring to overcome them rather than being deceived by inflated self-opinion.Lt 4, 1870, par. 7–8 The verse calls for elevated aim instead of taking fallen humanity as pattern, which leaves life without anchor and without valuable experience, changeable and led by feeling and impulse, with life thrown away.Ms 43, 1900, par. 24 Lost time cannot be redeemed in human strength, but transformation by the renewing of the mind makes a different life possible.Ms 43, 1900, par. 24

The high standard of the verse is reachable because Christ laid aside royal robes, crown, throne and glory, clothed divinity with humanity, was afflicted with human affliction to understand temptation and to become a faithful judge of the conflict with satanic agencies, and thereby gives power to become sons of God to those who receive and believe on Him rather than trusting in self.Ms 180, 1901, par. 1–4 His redeeming power places people on vantage ground for freedom from the bondage wrought by Adam's fall, for He began redemption where ruin began, upon appetite, conquering where Satan had led man to spoil soul, body and spirit.Lt 90, 1898, par. 21–23 Transformation by renewing of the mind is the work of the Holy Spirit and not of human power, when the mind submitted to His control and surrendered to God in union with Christ is worked as leaven, awakening new thoughts, feelings and purposes, setting the faculties to work and bringing soul, body and spirit into conformity to Christ so the sinner receives His righteousness and sanctification for eternal life.5MR 346.3–4 The mighty power of the Holy Spirit works entire transformation making a new creature molded after the divine similitude, so every true child may prove God's will by word and deed with marked difference between light and darkness, requiring faith working by love, humbling of self and the divine touch upon the entire being.Lt 84, 1899, par. 6–8

Renewal is wrought by the Holy Spirit taking possession of mind, spirit, heart and character, by beholding the Lord's glory and being changed from glory to glory until the soul is re-created and restored to His image.Ms 6, 1900, par. 35–36+3 Fallen man is transformed by making Christ the subject of meditation and beholding God's glory, changing from glory to glory with Christ formed within as hope of glory, proved when the Spirit possesses mind and character with besetting sins overcome, evil thoughts refused, habits purged, tendencies turned right and holy tempers borne publicly as a spectacle to world, angels and men.Ms 1a, 1890, par. 18–20 Human resolutions and purposes alone cannot do this work, but it is secured by putting self wholly in God's hands in faith while working with Him in doing His will.Ms 1a, 1890, par. 18–20 The transformation requires laying aside own ways, plans and ideas, submitting will to God's will by renunciation of self and receiving the mind of Christ, with self emptied and crucified with affections and lusts, pride and self-sufficiency crucified, sins conquered and the vacuum supplied by the Spirit according to faith through prayer and trust.Lt 57, 1887, par. 2–4+2

No temperament excuses retaining the mold of fallen nature, for Christ died to give His own mold, and until there is willingness to die to self and count heaven worth the cost, transforming grace is not manifested, but when the emptied nature is presented God fills it with His fullness to consecrate all to service.ST Nov 21, 1892 The change is not accomplished by human strength or resolutions but by putting self wholly in God's hands and trusting Him to work while doing His will, with divine grace joined to human effort and will, proved in a changed life where motives are brought into harmony with right and character is reshaped after the divine Model.Lt 47, 1893, par. 26–27+2 Transformation is never forced but each soul must decide to fall on the Rock and be broken and open the proud heart to the Spirit, with renewing sanctifying intellectual ability so one has the mind of Christ.Ms 18, 1888, par. 15 The Holy Spirit enlightens the mind and renews character making it holy, uplifted, strong, steadfast and like Christ, enabling understanding of the consecration God accepts and of God's requirements and will.HSP 2.10+3

That renewal puts away anger, envy and strife for love, humility, peace and joy when the soul surrenders by faith, though His work itself is unseen, and as self dies and Christ lives within daily reception of the Spirit brings eternal life, forgiveness, cleansing and fitness for service.MYP 158.1+2 God's people must not be changed by surroundings but stand firm to exert transforming influence on minds deformed by false habits, and this requires faith working by love purifying the soul.CH 429.1–2+1 Minds are renewed by the Holy Spirit through truth, separating believers from the world to serve as missionaries seeking the lost and ministering to the needy, and the Word prevents conformity as its principles shape the whole life and character into new birth.ST Sep 10, 1912+1 Transformation comes by receiving, believing and obeying the Bible as God's instrument and sure means of intellectual culture, training desires under His will and nourishing with wholesome mental food rather than harmful fictitious reading.ST Oct 10, 1906+1

As the Word is carefully studied, absorbed, digested, made part of the being and lived, and as people dwell on His goodness, mercy and love, motives are harmonized, understanding clarified, desire for purity deepened, and Christ's character becomes their own with humble, kind and loving character and enlarged intellect.Ms 32a, 1896, par. 18–20+3 To be transformed is to have Christ's character by living the Word with discipline of spirit and cleanliness of heart and thought, which is sanctified imperishable knowledge that is life, peace and joy forever, of more value than talent or secular knowledge, and the only safety in the short remaining probation while the winds are held until God's servants are sealed before the last battle.18MR 63.2+1 A person is transformed through communion with God in studying His Word, for dwelling on His goodness brings clearer understanding, stronger desire for purity and a heart softened into humility, kindness and love.ST Oct 17, 1906 Transformation comes through God's power and includes purification, elevation and ennobling of thoughts and mental life, and this inner change is needed before one is fit to labor for others.15MR 235.4

The mind is also transformed through continued discipline in religious exercises and trust, strengthening it to resist inward foes and bring passions, appetites and will under control to form a character fit for heaven.Ms 20, 1868, par. 3–4 Obeying brings the Holy Spirit's power upon mind and body into harmony with Christ's will and likeness so hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong die, Christ is formed within as hope of glory, and the life shows true following with patience, kindness and love worked out in nearest duties and constant growth for immortal life.5MR 126.2–127.1+1 The verse is God's command to build a wall against transgression so blessing can be bestowed, refusing a world where iniquity abounds, keeping the intellect unimpaired as proved by actions and by bringing heaven into home, church and school, while realizing the Holy Spirit as much a person as God is a person is present as Keeper hearing every word and knowing every thought.Ms 66, 1899, par. 9–12 God gives transformation to those who consecrate themselves unreservedly so the mind works under the Spirit's direction rather than being distracted by trivial matters, requiring individual effort in response to great light, with prayer through which God opens understanding and awakens to the high calling.Ms 11, 1910, par. 18–19+1

Transformation comes by God's Spirit moving upon the mind and controlling emotions, producing rational thought, right feelings and a faultless life quietly rather than in excitement where feelings replace thought, gained through searching Scripture and humble prayer with the heart cleansed from self and sin so God works acceptably for salvation of souls.Lt 24, 1880, par. 10–11 The renewing of the mind is imparted by the Holy Spirit who convinces of sin and leads the repenting believer to Jesus through faith in His blood for pardon, as the sanctifying influence of grace in the forgiven believer who sits with Christ in heavenly places unto holiness.Ms 122, 1905, par. 13 Reform comes step by step as the Spirit works on the heart, with truth impressing the mind, the will brought into submission and self giving way to Christ's will.RH Nov 5, 1914 The verse requires deliberately withdrawing thoughts from worldly things and giving serious daily attention to salvation, God's character and the life to come, maintaining a receptive frame of mind when receiving instruction from God's Word, and living as responsible moral agents submitting to divine help and doing the appointed part.Lt 298, 1903, par. 3+2

The verse lays upon every individual something to prove, and it supplies the rule by which it is to be proved.Ms 111, 1901, par. 1–2 That proving is by personal experience in this probationary time, and it is the privilege of all to come into right relation to God by presenting the body as a living sacrifice and being transformed by the renewing of the mind instead of being conformed to the world.Ms 100, 1901, par. 2–5+1 It is a call to moral renovation of every heart in preparation to meet God, making true believers whose daily character exposes spurious faith, for those who have put on Christ receive inward transformation and learn His will by experience in pure, clean words full of sympathy, tenderness and love, joined at times with reproof and sharp rebuke to bring back the erring, since without such change souls perish.Ms 80, 1899, par. 12–13 It promises an experience that never disappoints, for God who through Jesus Christ created man calls every soul to prove Him and learn by testing what His good and acceptable and perfect will brings.Lt 110, 1899, par. 20–21

By cooperating with God and proving His faithfulness a person can know His good and acceptable and perfect will and come into close relationship with Him.Ms 50, 1903, par. 3+1 Gospel sanctification transforms soul, body and spirit and brings the feet through the strait gate into the narrow way cast up for the ransomed to walk in.Lt 110, 1899, par. 20–21 Those so transformed work as Christ worked for the souls and bodies of fellow men, helping and strengthening one another as members of the heavenly family and overcoming evil with good as Christ overcame in order to win heaven and sit with Him in His throne.Ms 100, 1901, par. 2–5+1 Conformity to the world prevents knowing God's will by experience, while transformation through the renewed mind makes it possible to prove it good and acceptable and perfect.Lt 5, 1868, par. 6–7 That transformation includes living so as to avoid appetite-driven harm to body and brain which hinders service to God, and only those who practice self-denial and self-sacrifice and live simple healthful lives understand what constitutes the acceptable and perfect will of God.Lt 5, 1868, par. 6–7+1

Discerning and proving that will requires presenting the body as a living, holy, acceptable sacrifice and bringing the will into harmony with the Creator's will.Ms 102, 1903, par. 16+2 The command is given for human good, to build a wall around believers to keep them from transgression so blessing and love may be bestowed in rich measure.7MR 299.1–2 The humble and contrite who seek God on the highway of holiness are strengthened by Him and do not walk in darkness, and through faith in Jesus they obtain strength to resist every temptation of Satan and increase in moral power with every test.Ms 102, 1903, par. 16+2 When the whole person — soul, body and spirit — is yielded fully in humble prayer and surrender, God impresses His image on the soul and transforms the person to serve His will, though the unrenewed nature cannot dwell in heaven and transformation requires submission and determined choice to follow Christ, since none can save himself.Lt 33, 1868, par. 2+1 Workers thus transformed gain an individual experience of discerning God's good and acceptable and perfect will, shown in fellowship with Christ and a will conformed to God, preparing them to seek life in His kingdom during the remaining probation.Ms 61, 1903, par. 6

Renewal enables recognizing and following God's will, and parents are therefore to conform their own lives to Christ rather than the world's pattern and to train children by the Bible's standard rather than the world's.ST Jun 9, 1881+1 Not being conformed but being transformed means using all powers in harmony with God's good and acceptable and perfect will in a true pure life, renewed daily through the grace of Christ and study of His word, making men and women stronger, uplifted and ennobled and better prepared for useful service with the true motive of service and aggressive effort against evil.CT 499.2 Being cleansed by the renewing of the mind gives ability to distinguish between the sacred and the common, between honor and rectitude and dishonor and fraud.Ms 107, 1899, par. 7 This renewing comes by heeding God's cautions and warnings with a repentance that needs not to be repented of, curing the selfishness, covetousness and idolatry of unsanctified workers who misapply resources and defile God's sacred place by handling holy things as common.Ms 107, 1899, par. 7

The verse calls for full consecration to Christ with nothing withheld, letting His holy presence abide instead of conforming to the world.Lt 18, 1902, par. 11 That inward change by a renewed mind is genuine sanctification, with the law of God as the rule of life put in the inward parts and written in the heart under the new covenant, reforming character and life and making one perfect in every good work.Lt 18, 1902, par. 11 It belongs to a Christlike life marked by purity, unselfishness, tenderness and kindness rather than a combative spirit.Ms 104, 1898, par. 27–29 God's all-powerful grace joined with human effort and will works this change in life and character, enabling discernment and proof of His will, and helping and blessing others belongs to this transformed life as partaking of the divine nature and escaping the world's corruption through lust.Ms 104, 1898, par. 27–29+1

Not being conformed means refusing to imitate the fashions, dress, speech, conduct and customs of the world, so that the line between those who serve God and those who do not remains clear and unblurred.RH Jun 25, 1861+3 Pride of dress and conformity in every relation of life, in society and in families, is a denial of Christ, while confessing Him requires refusing such conformity.ST Feb 26, 1894+1 Being elevated and sanctified through truth is shown in orderly, neat, modest and tasteful habits, and such visible difference can strengthen influence, for God is a God of order and is not pleased with disorder, filthiness or sin.RH Jan 30, 1900 Following a fashion that compromises modesty is not excused by convenience, and a person may acknowledge truth yet deny it by worldly appearance including pride and costly dress unless Christ's Spirit and the purifying influence of truth shape the life.RH Apr 22, 1862

In dress the standard is Christ and the Bible, choosing clothing that is modest, healthful, simple, neat, orderly and tasteful, and shunning extremes, extravagance and unnecessary ornamentation.HTL6 61.2+2 Faithfulness in modest healthful dress may leave one out of fashion, and then there must be no change to be like the world, but noble independence and moral courage to be right even if all the world differs.HTL6 61.2+1 Those of long experience must use entrusted talents to set this example by denying appetite and refusing dress according to the world's standard, standing firmly on Christ the rock when the tide of moral evil comes with power to sweep away and cause loss of balance.4T 582.3

If the world brings in a modest, convenient, healthful style that agrees with the Bible, adopting it does not change relation to God or to the world.RH Jan 30, 1900+2 Believers are to hold a straightforward course irrespective of applause or censure, clinging to the right because of its own merits and humbly refusing to be moved merely to match fashion or win approval.RH Jan 30, 1900+3 Separation from the world does not mean neglecting personal appearance, and nonconformity is no excuse for slovenly dress or lack of respect when worshiping God.RH Jan 30, 1900+1

Obedience to God rather than conformity requires refusing gold and pearls and costly array and all needless embellishments of the person.4T 644.2–645.2 Clinging to forbidden ornaments cherishes pride and vanity, the desire to attract attention and admiration, and steadily increases the vanity inherent in human nature.4T 644.2–645.2 Disregarding this instruction brings peril and loss and forfeits peace of mind and divine approval, while seeking in all things to conform to the will of God removes prideful display and brings peace and joy reigning in the soul.4T 644.2–645.2

Following worldly fashion dishonors God, weakens spirituality and obscures the distinction between God's people and the world.RH Nov 17, 1904 Conformity in dress departs from simplicity, cultivates love for fashion, extravagance and unnecessary ornamentation, and lets the mind be engrossed with dress.4T 629.2–3 This engrossment separates from God, neglects inward character, cripples and dwarfs God-given powers for winning souls, leaves no time to pray and search the Scriptures to understand truth, keeps mothers from bringing up children in nurture and admonition and teaching them truth, removes desire for prayer meeting and religious exercises, and by an inconsistent course strengthens unbelievers in unbelief instead of letting light shine in good works.4T 629.2–3

Without thorough renewing of the mind and transformation, pride, self-love, selfishness and concern with dress and appearance leave a person unfit for God's kingdom.2T 174.2 Outward looks and clothing do not win God's favor; moral worth and Christlike character do.2T 174.2

Conformity to worldly habits of eating, drinking and dressing instead of practicing temperance is backsliding, while transformation means standing firmly by principle and advancing in health reform.Lt 35, 1893, par. 2–4 Conformity to the unhealthy, immodest and expensive fashions of the age is worldly conformity that displeases and dishonors God.CH 644.2

God's people must remain distinct and simple rather than follow fashions and customs, and following surrounding nations in wearing hoops is sinful and a step toward their abominations incompatible with honoring God.Lt 27, 1861, par. 3 The professed people of God must not copy the prideful fashions of this degenerate age, for such conformity dishonors God and joins pride, ignorance and folly together.4T 634.1–2 The fashions to be rejected are unhealthful, immodest and expensive, and fashion rules the world as a tyrannical mistress that taxes without reason and collects without mercy, compelling submission to great inconvenience and discomfort, ridiculing the poor if they do not follow at any cost even to life itself, destroying health through blind zeal, and carrying out Satan's devices to the triumph of Satan and the laugh of death.4T 634.1–2 Conformity to the world's fashions and pursuit of artificial, sensual pleasures turns from the higher life and beauty of character, while attention to God's works in nature elevates heart and life.RH Oct 17, 1871

Following the fashions of the world is forbidden, especially fashions that waste and destroy bodily health and life, and treating the body with reckless disregard in order to stay in harmony with fashion makes obedience impossible.Ms 59, 1900, par. 5 The command is sacred and binding, yet few professed Christians heed it.Ms 59, 1900, par. 5 Conforming to fashion through habits that damage the body conflicts with presenting the body to God for sacred service, and obedience to God's Word requires habits that respect the laws of life and a renewed mind able to recognize and follow His will.19MR 314.1–3

The verse requires temperance and health reform as part of a renewed mind, refusing habits that weaken physical, mental and moral strength, living in harmony with the laws of health and practicing self-denial and self-control of appetite and diet.Ms 1, 1888, par. 14–16+4 Renewal includes the mind seeing truth and the will bending to its claims when truth is presented with scriptural evidence, so that indulgence obstructing spiritual discernment and service is put away.21MR 39.1–3+2 It is itself a temperance text, calling believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God, to refuse conformity to the world, and to be transformed by renewing of the mind so as to prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.Lt 90, 1898, par. 4

Applied to diet it forbids excessive eating and drinking, gluttony, drunkenness, rich foods and unhealthy mixtures that create depraved appetite and pervert character, tea drinking that becomes harmful dependence dulling perception, and tobacco that steadily weakens physical, mental and moral strength.Ms 49, 1898, par. 50–51+4 Rich varied mixtures of foods and drinks that ruin the stomach, make invalids, fix depraved appetite and produce diseased religious life must be rejected by all churches and families giving the body to God in holy service.Lt 59, 1898, par. 3 Stimulating drinks and alcohol that harm the body and cloud the mind must be cut away because they weaken the faculties needed to discern truth and obey God.21MR 39.1–3

Bringing eating and drinking under the laws of health, studying those laws and controlling natural habits is personal duty, and willful ignorance is sin, for heeding God's precepts shapes people physically and spiritually into His image.Ms 47, 1896, par. 37–38+2 Meat-eating and other self-pleasing strengthen animal propensities, weaken higher qualities and blunt discernment of sacred things, so bodily choices affect the mind and the ability to live out the verse.Lt 23, 1896, par. 6–9 Healthful habits are a Bible requirement with care for the body and obedience to health laws including simple diet and avoiding what stimulates desire, which ministers should teach by instruction and example so that heeding brings physical and spiritual conformity to God's image.Lt 73a, 1896, par. 20–22+1

Keeping strict watch over appetite and passions to present the body as Daniel did is required.Ms 49, 1897, par. 16–17 Keeping the body from appetite-driven defilement and preserving its faculties for God's service belongs to that consecration, and renewal brings clear perception enabling people to recognize and follow God's good, acceptable and perfect will.Ms 153, 1899, par. 16–20 A renewed mind and body no longer governed by lustful passions enable discernment and living out of God's will, with bodily purity and self-control essential to mental and spiritual vigor and to becoming a fit temple for the Holy Spirit.Lt 139, 1898, par. 34–42 Being transformed means walking in the light of God's instruction including in eating and drinking, presenting mind, soul, body and strength as a living sacrifice to answer the purpose of creation, and ignoring that light brings physical weakness and feebleness of body and mind.20MR 3.1–4.2+1

Renewed understanding is shown by living healthfully and applying health reform light, becoming a genuine partaker before teaching others.Ms 64, 1898, par. 5–7 Presenting the body means giving this care to the body, with health-reform educators going forward and teaching wholesome, appetizing food preparation and educating workers for intelligent preparation of wholesome food.Lt 49, 1902, par. 46–47+1 In health work institutions are to be built up with qualified workers who teach self-denial, temperance, how to treat the body, clean healthful diet and freedom from intemperate habits.Ms 1, 1888, par. 14–16+1 Physicians should tell patients tenderly but clearly when suffering results from improper eating and drinking, and ministers who receive and live out the light including health reform become partakers of its fruit and can bear a valuable message rather than treating the light as a stumbling block.20MR 315.6–316.3+1

Overcoming alcohol and stimulating-drink habits requires full cooperation, awakened moral powers and trust in Christ's grace, and renewed self-control keeps the body healthy and the intellect clear for service.Lt 73, 1896, par. 11–13 Even one enslaved by intemperance can be transformed and rescued from ruin through God's help and grace.Ms 92, 1893, par. 4 Self-indulgence and addictive appetite confuse reason and weaken responsibility, so mind and body must be kept clear and healthy for God's service through moral self-control and trust in grace to overcome craving, joined to sober humble thinking rather than pride in own judgment.ST Apr 22, 1880+1 Continuing habits that damage strength hinders transformation, while receiving and following health reform light helps a person become sanctified through truth and fitted for immortality, and Christians must obey health laws rather than violate them to offer God the best service.CH 49.3+1

Transformation requires grace to convict, convert and free from enslaving habits, for indulgences that weaken powers work against presenting the body as holy.CH 22.3+1 The only true reform is transformation of the heart by grace not outward restriction, with no pledges and no mere restriction of diet able to cure diseased appetite, and temperance in all things including giving up tea, coffee and flesh meat comes only when grace cures appetite and the heart is transformed.STMW9 54.1+1 Conformity to God's will requires a mind able to value spiritual and eternal things, but wrong habits of eating can weaken the intellect, hindering proper appreciation of salvation and effort to shape life after Christ.CH 612.4 God's people must show marked distinction from the world in habits, not taking the side of idolaters by indulging self, which requires advancing health reform and medical missionary work while learning from Christ and following His example.13MR 340.2

Refusing conformity to the habits, customs and fashions of city life and seeking health in country sanitariums allows people to be transformed into living examples whose changed condition impresses others.7T 79.1 The call supports health-reform educators and teachers of the third angel's message in standing true to their message, living and working in keeping with God's will and serving God faithfully.CH 476.2+1

Romans 12:2 forbids love of the world, including pursuing worldly treasures, giving oneself to worldly desires and pride, selfish ambition, self-love and desire for supremacy, because love of the world is incompatible with the Father's love.Lt 31, 1891, par. 50–51+1 It calls for a changed, renewed mind as the Holy Spirit works upon heart and character to make a new person in Christ, shown in unselfish stewardship that uses entrusted goods and talents for God, seeks His kingdom and righteousness before personal interests, and stores treasure in heaven.Lt 31, 1891, par. 48–49 This renewal separates affections from the world and reforms the life visibly to others, and without overcoming love of worldly things and earthly treasure no one can enter heaven.2T 678.3–4 Worldly influence shapes the mind toward earth, while spiritual and heavenly things must have weight to transform it, so devotion to God and a changed heart turn affections toward eternal things.2T 184.1–2 God's people are therefore not conformed but transformed, living as watchful strangers and pilgrims whose separation from worldly ambition and pursuit of earthly treasure makes clear their home is in heaven and they seek a better country.2T 193.2

Being conformed means letting love of money take firm hold of the soul and become interwoven with all transactions of life, which perverts and debases God-given abilities, quick perceptions and understanding of His word.3T 126.2–127.2 That conformity makes a person selfish, grasping, penurious and overbearing, as seen in W. C. whose abilities were perverted by selfish pursuit of gain, and in Sister G and Sister Gargett whose selfishness and love of money showed they were conformed rather than transformed and needed thorough conversion.TCBMP 164.2–165.2+3 Being transformed by renewing of the mind means having a sanctified heart that puts those powers into active use in the Master's service instead of selfish interest, with the object to do good and glorify God, imparting energy, humility and efficiency that commands respect and gives influence for good over brothers, neighbors and associates.TCBMP 164.2–165.2+1

To be conformed is to let the spirit of the world take possession in covetousness and selfishness, looking out for own special interest and seeking advantage at a neighbor's disadvantage, thereby losing the noble and Godlike.1T 478.2–480.2 It brings captivity by the powers of darkness and blinds vision so obligations to God and to neighbors are not discerned.1T 478.2–480.2 Eyes must be opened to see this true condition, and there must be zeal and repentance, or there will be failure of everlasting life.1T 478.2–480.2 A mind long fixed on selfish interests cannot value salvation, the atonement, holiness or the eternal reward, nor distinguish sacred things from ordinary ones.2T 519.1 Renewal lifts the mind to the standard of God's word, separates affections from the world, enables appreciation of eternal things, and reforms the life visibly.2T 678.3–4+1

The renewed mind does not make the world, its customs and fashions the standard, especially in the use of money, but regards money as God's sacred trust and God as giver of all good things.TEPD 68.1 It remembers that the record of how God's money is used must be met in the judgment, and therefore exercises wisdom in spending in conformity to God's holy will.TEPD 68.1 Instead of spending for self-pleasing and self-gratification that does no real good but positive injury, and instead of letting personal inclinations control toward worldly practices, pride, vanity, appetite and passion are refused, and money is made an agent of spiritual improvement.TEPD 68.1 Separation from the world includes conduct, dress, language and use of money, for holiness is not a distinctive outfit but a life that does not imitate worldly practices, denies self daily, takes up the cross and follows Jesus, while conformity in expending earnings on dress, concerts and self-pleasing pleasure divides the heart, weakens spiritual growth, hides discipleship and exerts only worldly influence.9MR 78.2–3+1

Conformity to the world means loving riches, giving best strength to worldly pursuits, and bowing down to mammon for honor and wealth.3T 479.2–3 Satan secures worship through love of riches by exciting the imagination with brilliant prospects of worldly gain and perfect happiness, tempting with power and wealth for doing good, until the change is made so imperceptibly that the conformed do not perceive they have parted with Christ.3T 479.2–3 To be conformed is to exchange masters, accepting mammon in place of Christ, holding to earthly treasures and rejecting self-denial and self-sacrifice, losing connection with the self-denying Redeemer while remaining His servants in name only.3T 479.2–3 Faithfulness instead requires refusing to gain advantage at others' expense and keeping integrity even in difficult circumstances through constant watchfulness, earnest prayer and dependence on God rather than own strength, trusting His care and promises to enable good works.2T 71.2 A renewed mind that discerns and approves God's good, acceptable and perfect will lives out that consecration in part by giving means to God's work.STB 162.4

The verse forbids judging and choosing by outward worldly appearance and human advantage, requiring transformation by seeking counsel from God to know His will.10MR 234.1–236.1 Not being conformed means not selecting a location for God's work among the wealthy to give character and secure patronage, not valuing grand buildings, land, bank stock and favor of rich, proud, self-indulgent men, and not following their pride, conceit, avarice, religious prejudice and irreverence.10MR 234.1–236.1 Being transformed means choosing with the thought ever in mind that the work is to restore the moral image of God in man, valuing each soul, being rich in good works and mercy to the poor and oppressed, and avoiding evil associations that mold sentiments and undermine piety.10MR 234.1–236.1 Lot choosing Sodom without reference to his associations shows conformity, looking at outward beauty and advantage, going in rich and leaving with nothing under wrath, a choice God's people must not copy.10MR 234.1–236.1 Transformation to Christ's image requires using time, talents, labor and money for the honor and glory of God to honor Jesus, rather than devoting them to feasts and celebrations in honor of earthly friends.ST Jan 4, 1883 When believers withhold nothing and bring gifts and offerings to Christ, light shines through life and character to illumine the pathway heavenward and attract souls from the broad road to the narrow way of holiness, a work needing strong men and women as successful workers since everything is gained or lost by being on Christ's side and making sure work for heaven.ST Jan 4, 1883

The verse governs the training of children and the shaping of schools to prepare the young to serve God and exert an influence for Him rather than to adopt the customs and fashions of the world, bringing them up to love and fear God, to keep His commandments, to work in Christ's lines, and to present a noble and elevated Christian character, with the success of schools measured not by popularity or larger numbers but by moral power and by the virtue, intelligence and piety of the people.FE 289.2+2
True education is the renewing of the mind and transforming of the character by impressing mind and heart with the knowledge of God the Creator and Jesus Christ the Redeemer and by experimental knowledge of the plan of salvation gained through earnest and diligent study of the Scriptures.RH Aug 22, 1912+4
This renewal re-creates the soul in God's image as His perfect character is contemplated, elevates and ennobles students into useful and well-balanced men and women who put physical and mental powers to best use in order and discipline and in a pure and true life, brings every motive and desire into harmony with right so that truth and uprightness are not sacrificed to selfish desire or worldly ambition, fortifies the mind against the deceptive whisperings of the adversary, enables understanding of God's voice, teaches daily growth in purity and strength, and prepares learners to put forth aggressive efforts against evil, to dispel moral darkness, and to become co-workers with Jesus Christ in useful service, giving passage from the preparatory school of earth to the higher school above, whereas all knowledge gathered from books and the world alone cannot place youth in the ranks of the Lord nor give a character approved of God in righteousness.RH Aug 22, 1912+3

In education the mind must be renewed and molded after God's plan rather than shaped by worldly ways, and overdevotion to study, crowding in too many studies, unsuitable hours, overtaxed minds, unemployed and enfeebled physical powers, and making book-knowledge all-important must be guarded against because they ruin physical, mental and moral powers, crowd out truth and the knowledge of God, supplant truth with human inventions, crush desire for godliness, dishonor God, and defraud the student for time and eternity.SPBC 212.1–2+4
Not being conformed means rejecting the world's way of getting an education that neglects the body and injures the temple of the body, while being transformed means acquiring knowledge while caring for physical necessities and health, practicing temperance, keeping suitable hours, refusing sinful practice and overstudy, avoiding taking on too many studies, keeping balanced mental and physical action, remaining conscious in every moment of study of God-given responsibilities, keeping eternal welfare and peace in view, keeping the desire to learn meekness and lowliness in the school of Christ, and breathing a heavenly atmosphere under the Holy Spirit so that truthfulness, justice, integrity, equity and righteousness appear in every transaction, thereby proving God's good and acceptable and perfect will for present welfare and eternal peace.SPBC 212.1–2+3
Keeping responsibilities in view under the Spirit's guidance produces integrity and righteousness, whereas intemperate habits in seeking education consume time for this life and eternity and weaken the desire to learn Christ's lessons.SPBC 212.1–2+1

The verse calls for combined moral, intellectual and physical culture, with fashionable society's habits and customs not deciding conduct, so that those strong intellectually and those inclined to physical labor alike improve where deficient and become well-developed, well-balanced men and women who give God the entire being as a living, holy and acceptable sacrifice in reasonable service.3T 157.1+2
Complete transformation of character to purity, to heaven's principles, and to fitness for life in another world with the superiority of the future life kept in view is a central aim of Christian education and is possible through God alone, with all working in cooperation with Him as laborers together with Him, for minds that stay trivial and worldly-minded and cherish worldly idols are not impressed even by the most solemn appeals, and careless conduct such as a shrug of the shoulder, a movement of the lips, or an expression of the countenance often does more harm than outspoken contempt by hindering anyone seeking to develop character after the divine likeness.Ms 111, 1901, par. 3+1
In this work teachers are to be sanctified through the truth, to guard strictly against conformity to the world, to resist worldly influence, popularity, plans and customs, to keep the Bible and its proper place central, to seek wisdom from above so decisions accord with God's will and meet the mind of His Spirit, and to make the conversion of students to a new heart and life the all-important thing in harmony with the Great Teacher's purpose of restoring God's image in the soul and converting the world, with learning from Christ as safety and eternal interest as the great theme of teachers and students.STE 34.1+4

Teachers must not remain satisfied with old customs and maxims, the well-trodden path of tradition, fear of leaving a set line that keeps them under the shadow of the world, wedding themselves to certain human authors, or laboring for food that cannot strengthen spirituality, but must be transformed by continually increasing in knowledge of the Word and spiritual truth, studying the Word, working in Christ's lines, and feeding on the meat that endures to everlasting life and the bread of life, which is eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God, so that every faculty is vitalized by the Spirit with wisdom, knowledge, higher education from God, spiritual vigor, moral strength and daily improved powers to prove what God wills.Ms 37, 1899, par. 13–14+2
Copying the world's plans and reasoning by worldly standards for thinking, acting and managing keeps people from meeting the mind of God's Spirit, and when a college's managers do so and imitate worldly customs they hinder the purpose for which the college was established.STSE 91.2–92.1+1
The verse applies directly to education, and because the final crisis in this world's history is rapidly nearing, schools must not offer the same advantages as worldly schools nor follow the routine of worldly schools, but must give instruction leading to the practice of true humility with the simplicity of true godliness seen in speech, in dress, in diet, and in the influence exerted.RH Jan 11, 1912

For the young the verse is Paul's charge to both the young and those of more mature age not to take the world's pattern but to be changed through renewing of the mind to recognize God's good, acceptable and perfect will, applied through self-denial and refusal of selfish gratification, since indulging every desire keeps them from the heavenward path, forms characters unfit for useful service to God, and shapes character and eternal destiny.Lt 47, 1893, par. 16–19+1
Through divine power the young are not to be fashioned by the world's model but to resist its corrupting influence with moral courage against moral pollution and to shape society according to God's will, with students taught to separate themselves from the customs and practices of the world as preparation for service and for becoming successful laborers for Christ, learning to present present truth together with working with hand and head to earn daily bread, valuing school as the place of opportunity for training, and thoroughly cultivating the land as a lesson in thoroughly cultivating the garden of the heart.FE 89.2+3
Young men are called to answer God's claims by training the mind for God, centering the affections on Jesus, drawing strength and grace from Him, caring less for self and more for others, praying most earnestly to be kept from Satan's snare, giving all to Jesus, pleading for the transforming influence of His Holy Spirit, educating themselves for the practical duties of Christian life, serving God with undivided, zealous, wholehearted affection, being faithful and true in the prayer meeting, using intellect, talents and power of influence in precious work for Jesus, laying up a treasure of good works in heaven in the little time left, and setting an example that helps others take their stand for Jesus in work for time and eternity.Lt 59, 1880, par. 16–21

With the day of final reckoning approaching and the world repeating the eating, drinking, marrying, amusement, display, unbelief and violence of the days of Noah, parents must be aroused to duty, must not let themselves and their children be drawn by association with unbelievers into old passions, and must train children sensibly in obedience to God, educating them for the future immortal life.Ms 100, 1901, par. 32–34
Parents must study Christ more and the world less, refuse to imitate the customs, fashions, maxims and opinions of the present age, be governed by different principles than worldlings who gauge their course by fashion, resist conformity that corrupts, draws away from the simplicity of the gospel, weakens faith, cools love for truth and harms God's work, remain faithful to their holy calling in which Christ freely offers unsearchable riches of grace, and instead give time and painstaking effort to mold the minds and characters of children after the divine Model, to open hearts to Jesus so His love and grace take possession and enable imparting divine instruction, to train them in Christ's meekness, simplicity, self-denial, sacrifice and usefulness, to reject fashionable ideas excusing idleness and useless accomplishments, to choose associates for them rather than permitting them to choose their own, to prepare them to bear burdens when young by giving useful labor, and thereby to give them moral integrity so they can be sent forth to be carried forward in study to qualify for any position of trust where God-fearing teachers can take them a step nearer heaven.ICEP 3.1+4
Parents must not mold children to fit the ways and vanities of worldly people around them but must lead them by precept and example to the Lord and heaven, counting temporal interests as little beside eternal welfare and the forming of character that secures immortality, being accountable for the souls they brought into existence, exercising watchful care and daily Christian experience as a mother must for a boy at a tender age, resisting the spirit of the world and seeking inward change from childhood, since children living among worldly people easily absorb love for vanities and the growing influence of evil in churches destroys spirituality.4T 113.1–2+1

Parents conform when they accept worldly standards for themselves and their children, allowing customs, fashions, amusements and worldly associations that oppose Christ, whereas God's people are called to stand apart from the corrupt and idolatrous practices of their age with moral independence and no compromise.TBC1882 60.2–3
Parents must undergo a complete change of mind and character, turning from envy, jealousy, criticism and suspicion to righteousness and unity so they can be light-bearers and cooperate in their children's salvation, which requires truly being transformed in word and spirit and urgently examining self to know whether that transformation is real, because children are a reproduction of themselves.6T 202.1+1
Renewal by God's grace must transform the person, for without that transformation neglected and undisciplined children may become a harmful influence and bring grief to their parents.Ms 8, 1875, par. 57–59

The call not to copy the world but to be changed by a renewed mind so as to recognize and live God's good, acceptable and perfect will is urged especially upon physicians, sanitarium physicians and nurses, publishing workers and ministers.7T 75.1+4 Those who care for the sick are to stand as watchful sentinels urging obedience in the bodily life, presenting the body as a living, holy, acceptable sacrifice which is reasonable service, encouraging care for the body rather than indulgence of harmful appetites and living by health principles themselves.CH 384.1+3 Publishing house workers, sanitarium physicians and nurses, and ministers are to seek converted intellects, daily converting power and Christ as an indwelling presence.Lt 350, 1907, par. 13–17

Workers are called to daily conversion rather than holding inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong such as ruling over one another.15MR 57.4–58.1+1 Renewal brings sober thinking of self according to the measure of faith instead of self-exaltation, humble service in the proper place among the differing members and gifts of the church, with love without hypocrisy, brotherly kindness, diligence, hope, patience, prayer and hospitality.Lt 350, 1907, par. 13–17+3 Without this repentance and daily conversion workers remain enemies of Christ like those who never yielded, profession alone is of no avail, continuing in sin while professing Christ misrepresents Him and puts Him to open shame, and the whole twelfth chapter of Romans is educational to be studied prayerfully, understood and brought into life practice.Lt 350, 1907, par. 13–17+2

Transformation is the way to increase in faith and righteousness and to grow up in Christ the living Head, each member doing the distinct work fitted to capability so all blend in a complete whole.Lt 183, 1909, par. 1–2 Every member is to present the body a living sacrifice, refuse conformity and contamination by evil, be purified from depravity, division and counterworking of God's plan, refuse to bring evil into things small or great, stand firm as a rock to Thus saith the Lord in pure heavenly principles, and united in church capacity strengthen one another as those sanctified by Christ's blood and worked by the Spirit, so the change is a bright light in a dark place and a symbol of the heavenly church in oneness of mind and faith.Lt 204, 1899, par. 10–13

All who labor in the harvest field in responsibility must not be indifferent about temperance and conformed to the world but be worked by the Spirit and transformed to prove what is good and pleasing and complete in God's will.Ms 59, 1900, par. 53–54 Offering the body as a living holy offering and thinking soberly according to faith gives far greater influence for truth and righteousness, every church needs this clear sharp testimony arousing moral sensibilities to practice temperance in all things, and where that is done a very great victory is gained.Ms 59, 1900, par. 53–54 Ministers and believers need a transformed mind through full surrender to God, for without this inward change they cannot be a savor of life unto life but are a savor of death unto death.2T 124.1

Fitness for ministry requires being transformed and living out sacred truth, not merely teaching it, for knowing God's will requires personal religious experience and communion with God which argument alone cannot replace.3T 241.2+1 Until character is transformed God will not work with a man in gospel ministry, to keep him in the pulpit opens the door to the enemy instead of standing in gospel integrity with the door closed to him, and without transformation human influence mingled with mesmeric power takes the place of the divine.EDFCP 21.1 The change requires the last vestige of spiritual pride taken from the heart and the meekness and simplicity of Christ put in its place, otherwise one's own righteousness has no value and efforts distort truth and have little effect.3T 241.2+2

Daily conversion means having the Spirit rest on the mind, training it to dwell on sound truths of the Word rather than foolishness, letting the Spirit impress and control thought and life so the enemy cannot possess the mind and lead into sin.RP 40.1–41.1 This gives strength to live as Christians and as sons and daughters of God and to avoid dishonoring God before unbelievers and weakening witness to eternal life.RP 40.1–41.1 Those who must deal with persons of widely different character, disposition and temperament must not let trials, perplexities and collisions, or the ignorance, pride and independence they meet, discourage or change them.4T 555.2

They must stand where they sway others rather than are swayed, firm as a rock to principle with intelligent faith, uncorrupted by surrounding influences.4T 555.2 Instead of being transformed by the influences to which they are exposed, they must stand up for Jesus and by the aid of His Spirit exert transforming power upon minds deformed by false habits and defiled by sin.4T 555.2+1 God's people must not be changed by surroundings but stand firm in principle, and those bearing responsibility in the sanitarium must guard its amusements strictly lest they lower the standard of Christianity, bring the institution to the level of worldly institutions and weaken true godliness.CH 429.1–2+1

God separates His people from the customs, habits and practices of the world and draws them near Himself so they can know His will and reveal the principles of His kingdom in life and character.6T 9.1 Coming out and being separate allows God to lead His people and make them a praise throughout the earth, and a clear visible difference between Christian practice and worldly standards is required because blending with the world leaves little influence over unbelieving relatives and associates.6T 146.3+1 Those with long experience must use entrusted talents to set this example of distinctness as God's peculiar people, denying appetite and refusing dress by the world's standard instead of indulging them.4T 582.3

God and angels are working to bring out, separate and distinguish His people from the world, so they must sanctify themselves, seek strength from God and connect more closely with heaven to meet the demands of the time when iniquity prevails.4T 582.3 The tide of moral evil comes with power to sweep them away and make them lose balance unless their feet stand firmly upon the rock Christ Jesus.4T 582.3 Safety in trial comes only through inward renewal until Christ's character becomes the believer's own, gained as the Word is carefully studied, absorbed and lived, keeping the mind from diversion from personal readiness before God.Ms 32a, 1896, par. 18–20

That renewal comes by receiving the flesh and blood of the Son of God, digesting the Word, making it part of the being and living it instead of keeping it apart from life, and it must be sought earnestly and at once because kingdom rises against kingdom, the four winds are still held until God's servants are sealed, the powers of earth will soon marshal for the last battle and only a little probation remains.18MR 63.2 Only such union with God gives safety that nothing can separate.18MR 63.2 Christians are chosen out of the world to live in the world without being of it, not partaking of its spirit nor practicing its ways, not molded by it but molding others, with all association with unbelievers for the purpose of drawing them to Christ as workers together with God.Ms 8b, 1891, par. 8

They are to live in the world without adopting its ways or customs, set apart to God and resisting worldly principles, with purity and holiness showing Christ's grace can restore the divine likeness and exert saving influence.CH 638.1–2 The world is not to instruct Christians nor its standards be their rule, but as chosen out of the world they refuse conformity in manner, words and character, speaking and acting as representatives of Christ, members of the royal family and children of the heavenly King revealing heavenly extraction, keeping the Lord's way exalted in righteousness, doing no injustice to those purchased by His blood, showing forth His praises as pilgrims seeking a better heavenly country, never apologizing for daring to be right, for only such distinct life impresses the world.Lt 31a, 1894, par. 53–54

Not conforming does not mean neglecting people, for Jesus did not conform yet attended to the needs of the least, His life a pattern of goodness and holiness marked by benevolence, consistency without obstinacy, tenderness without sentimentality, and social warmth joined with reserve.CT 262.1 Christians must not copy worldly practices yet must not withdraw from people, but live as light amid moral darkness, with love for one another essential to fellowship and to loving those for whom Christ died.STBk 85.2 Becoming an effective worker requires transformation of mind and character by Christ's Spirit, turning from selfish convenience to tenderness, care, patience and service.2T 649.2–650.1

Following God requires refusing conformity and being transformed rather than seeking ease or indulging selfish desires, lived out by following Christ's example, continually battling self and upholding the gospel even at cost of labor and suffering.ST Sep 12, 1878 A selfish unsympathetic character must be transformed before one can follow Christ faithfully and serve well, meaning loving self less and neighbor as self, practicing daily self-denial and putting others first, enabling discernment and action in harmony with God's mind.HRP 47.2–51.1 Those redeemed from sin are enabled to live regenerated transformed lives of service, their new life a probation to develop perfect loyalty.MYP 68.5

Inward change by divine grace making the mind new and the nature changed must appear outwardly in a Spirit-filled life profitable to God by bearing much fruit in active work to win others and in holy irreproachable life exemplifying Christ so others acknowledge truth's power to change the soul.7MR 241.1 Without that seen transformation all profession is worthless, only a form of godliness marking an unprofitable slothful servant.7MR 241.1 Those who accept Christ, confess sins and are transformed become members of His body, and their changed lives through faith and obedience enable Jews and Gentiles to live in harmony as one body under Christ.Ms 62, 1903, par. 20–22

The verse forbids thinking of self more highly than ought and calls for sober humble thought, away from selfish ambition, self-love, desire for supremacy, harsh dictatorial self-exalting spirit, picking flaws and seeking to control others.21MR 277.4–5+4 Renewal by the Spirit upon heart and character produces a new person shown in unselfish stewardship, using goods and talents for God, seeking His kingdom first and storing treasure in heaven.Lt 31, 1891, par. 48–49 Inward conversion subdues self by humbleness, takes deceptive gloss from the eyes, gives Spirit-enlightened eyes to look into the heart, test motives, weigh every move, keep Satan from false coloring, turn decidedly to right, confess humbly and right wrongs to remove reproach from the cause.MDHRP 25.4–26.1

Conversion transforms self through renewing, overcoming self-esteem and exalted opinion of ability, teaching valuing others above self and producing a meek quiet spirit.2T 300.3–301.2 As perfection of the physical body depends on its organs, so perfection of the spiritual body depends on each member being transformed, humbled, united, keeping self under control and changing a proud dictatorial attitude to stay useful and reach perfection.21MR 277.4–5 The mind belongs to God by creation and redemption and must be returned transformed, not conformed to the world nor surrendered to control of any human.Lt 92, 1895, par. 38–41

No man has jurisdiction over another's conscience or right to dictate duty, judge the mind or take away freedom to think and follow duty, since each has individuality as God's workmanship bought with a price.Lt 92, 1895, par. 38–41 Transformation comes by daily consecration returning converted heart, enlightened conscience, purified affections and purchased body to be kept unto sanctification and holiness.Lt 92, 1895, par. 38–41 Christians must not let the world shape them but hold faith and principles, stand firm without stubbornly refusing light, let the Spirit reach and guide mind and conscience, and preserve the moral independence God gave.Lt 4, 1896, par. 41–43

They must refuse dependence on finite erring men for light and letting another be conscience, lean wholly on God, come to Jesus for wisdom, receive the Word in sincerity to awaken understanding, remove blindness, let true light shine and give strength for growth and right decisions.12MR 255.2–256.2 Without grace the unrenewed mind makes wrong decisions, walks in sparks of its own kindling, calls light darkness and error truth, and lies down in sorrow.12MR 255.2–256.2 For husband and wife the verse calls for taking Christ's yoke and working under His leading instead of carrying out own plans, with full consecration letting His presence abide under the new covenant with God's law in the inward parts.21MR 277.4–5+1

This inward change reforms character and life, overcomes self-esteem, values others above self, produces meekness and keeps a wife from spoiling her husband's life and leading him from God.Lt 18, 1902, par. 11+1 Those who separated in principle, chose their own course and warred against principles delivered by the Lord must have decided change by renewal, leave another foundation and stand wholeheartedly on the platform where truth is truth and righteousness is righteousness.Ms 44, 1905, par. 14–16 Unity is possible only on that right basis of eternal truth in conformity to the living Word, and God forbids union on any other basis.Ms 44, 1905, par. 14–16

The carnal heart must be subdued and transformed so God's people are disciplined into harmony, seeing eye to eye and being of same mind and judgment with living testimony in the church.3T 360.2 Renewing does not require yielding individuality but forbids using judgment as cover for self-will, self-sufficiency, pride and oversensitivity that refuses restraint, reproof and rebuke while claiming right to believe and talk as one pleases, for no man is proper judge of how far independence should go.3T 360.2 Transformation comes by the Spirit's softening subduing influence, unlearning and learning again with greater tenderness and love for workers and souls.Lt 12, 1887, par. 18–19

It enables uniting in labor instead of insisting one's own ways are right, carrying out own ideas, laboring alone or making own plans controlling, but laboring heart and soul with brethren to lift, plan and cooperate, accepting their ways, having much more of Christ and much less of self and peculiarities that wall off from laborers, breaking barriers by revealing His graces.Lt 12, 1887, par. 18–19 The Spirit molds character into Christ's image, unity depends on yielding fully to that influence, and grace renews in softness and beauty producing kindness, geniality and tenderness even in rebuke in conformity to the divine Model.Lt 78, 1894, par. 29

Those in responsibility must not mold others' experience to a common worldly standard but become learners in Christ's school, with mind trained to think His thoughts and enlightened to comprehend God's will, way and methods of work.Lt 294, 1907, par. 1+1 True fervor from the Spirit teaches subduing of self and walking humbly in Christ's way, so sacred work in consecration never cheapens a soul, while one refusing to become a humble follower is unfit to lead and does great harm cheapening the work to a common standard.Lt 294, 1907, par. 1+1 Reasonable service is obedience to God's plain Thou shalt and Thou shalt not, and for guardians of the people's welfare it means governing by God's orders and seeking reform of cities rather than conforming as by legalizing liquor sale.Ms 61a, 1906, par. 10

Those serving God in medical work must refuse to copy the world, forbidding physicians and managers putting on wealthy appearance or imitating worldly physicians in dress or display to gain influence.Lt 209, 1899, par. 11–12 Such self-lifting dishonors God, misleads others, shuts out the Spirit and brings the opposite of influence, while God can work only with those practicing required self-denial, serving with diligence and entire consecration, with power in meekness, lowliness and dependence on Him.Lt 209, 1899, par. 11–12 God's work must not take the world's mold, applied to the Nashville work meaning avoiding venturesome investments and debt and advancing only as indicated and as means allow even if good work must wait.17MR 278.4–279.1

Applied to making the publishing office pay through outside work, the verse directs choosing service and sacrifice according to God's will rather than financial gain as guiding aim.Lt 163, 1901, par. 13–14 The office must keep the peculiar character God directed and never take a worldly mold of self-exaltation, confidence in men, lack of dependence on the divine Ruler, and combining to sustain own plans without counsel of church or people, which may succeed briefly but God will not permit long.Ms 6, 1890, par. 19 Conformity bringing worldly policy into management of God's institutions is forbidden, leaving the right way plainly specified as if counsels were never given.1MR 243.1

Weaving selfishness into the web breaks right relation to God, He will help, uplift and do great things only when His people so relate that He can, and He will not serve with them while selfishness is woven into His work.1MR 243.1 The verse forbids weaving worldly maxims, standards, desires, plans and advantages into God's truth and work, requiring emptying of self so the heart is imbued with Christ's spirit with His example in view.1MR 213.2 Those staying conformed cannot distinguish God's truths from men's frauds, make only pretense of godliness while putting God out of knowledge, barter kingdom security for gain valuing it less than Judas valued Christ, and cannot be lights and laborers together with God.1MR 213.2

God's people must not follow the world's plan but establish institutions on an entirely different plan, for conformity to common enterprises absorbs minds, loses eternity from reckoning and leaves those in high places senseless of spiritual need, while refusing conformity belongs to fighting the good fight in the warfare between good and evil which Christ watches and angels intensely regard.1MR 223.2 Those keeping God's commandments and looking for Christ's soon appearing must not copy worldly customs or run the work from a worldly standpoint.4T 401.3 While extending influence and enlarging plans as Providence opens and using every facility to get truth before people, they must avoid worldly idolatry and growing formality and obtain wisdom to carry all branches after God's order.4T 401.3

Following worldly standards for training and success including pursuing popularity is dangerous, taking the world's spirit and introducing what God's Word cannot sanction.LLWP 8.6 God's denominated people must not obey worldly principles or conform to customs but stand as peculiar people zealous of good works while warning the world, opening new fields and working cities.Lt 247, 1904, par. 2 God's people must not adopt worldly patterns nor pursue policy, show and display but be transformed to recognize God's will, since conformity and desire for display oppose God's Word, harm gospel work and reveal lessons still unlearned.Lt 52, 1900, par. 8–10

Christians must not take the world as standard for conduct even to gain influence with worldly people, for conforming brings no strength, and God's people are to live distinctly from the ungodly in keeping with higher profession.Ms 135, 1902, par. 3+2 Transformation applied to the church calls members and leaders to purification and refusal of division or corruption.6T 239.2–4 It requires purification from depravity, division and counterworking, refusing evil in small or great and standing to Thus saith the Lord.Lt 204, 1899, par. 10–13

Being transformed means character formed after Christ's, pleasing to God and keeping one fit to remain in responsibility.11MR 252.3 Refusing transformation means looking to worldly men, cherishing ambition, turning from God to humans, becoming an instrument of deception in Satan's hands held helpless as chief of sinners, yet turning with full purpose in repentance still brings abundant pardon through Christ.11MR 252.3 The verse means leaving world, customs, practices and fashions by straining every nerve, fastening to Christ and exerting every energy to attain His perfection.Lt 53, 1887, par. 21

It requires pleading constantly to be kept without swerving an inch from duty, for momentary carelessness can plunge the soul into ruin with one sin leading to another until perdition, having truth as in Jesus brought into life to convict and convert, and rejecting religion that makes light of sin while continuing in known sin expecting salvation.Lt 53, 1887, par. 21 Believers are to prove by actions they are sanctified through truth by refusing conformity and coming out separate, representing self-denial, purity and holiness now by daily denying self, taking up the cross and following Jesus before opportunity passes.Ms 10, 1892, par. 7+1

God's people are not to mingle with worldly associates acting and dressing like them but remember Christ's name and be purified by the Spirit through self-denial, sacrifice and close study, for salvation and everlasting life deserve steady lifelong labor and planning.1T 242.1 Conforming by expending earnings on dress, concerts and self-pleasing pleasure lacks God's mark and Christ's meekness, fails to shine as lights and exerts only worldly influence, and those living so are not Christians.9MR 78.2–3 Sabbath-keepers must not be conformed by acting and dressing as unbelievers or joining children in close association with worldly companions.Ms 3, 1879, par. 11

They are to remain distinct while kind, courteous and polite, associating to bless and win to eternal truth, with conduct in heaven while looking for the appearing of the Lord.Ms 3, 1879, par. 11 Godly distinctiveness is moral not eccentricity, rough manners or needless tests, consisting in purity, holiness, kindness, courtesy, refinement, humility, truthfulness, honesty, patience, chaste thoughts, careful words and freedom from pride.Ms 37, 1885, par. 6–10 Courteous manners are not conformity, but sacrificing principle and truthfulness for politeness is, and obedience to moral law including the seventh-day Sabbath may separate from customs, while undisciplined conduct making stumbling blocks is not transformation.Ms 37, 1885, par. 6–10

The spirit governing God's people must be visibly removed from the worldly standard, wider separation meaning surer spirituality, following Jesus with less sinful conformity.Lt 15, 1889, par. 6 Mingling is only after Christ's order to do good and save souls, never in jesting, joking and witty speeches to keep unbelievers laughing, which are a savor of death not life, and trust in Jesus as helper enables His work while He reveals Himself as mighty wonder-working God.Lt 15, 1889, par. 6 Christians must not copy worldly ways in holidays by patterning after excitement but provide wholesome activities replacing dangerous amusements to protect children.MYP 392.2

They must not adopt worldly speech or complaining, for heavenly citizenship and hope of Christ's return call them to live differently and prepare for God's city.Lt 82, 1907, par. 7 They must not follow customs but live by Bible principles, here treating others from a Christian rather than worldly standpoint, and must not let worldly policy shape conduct but seek continual growth and fitness for the heavenly city.STB 287.2–3+1 Not being conformed comes through obedience holding fast by faith in Christ with firm confidence and love for truth however great pressure and trial, even when misunderstood by a world that does not see or know God.Ms 88, 1905, par. 2

It means not having one's own way but making one's way God's way and will God's will, submitting will, way and life into His hands with self not entering, keeping affections from separating from God, guarding by watchful prayer and letting nothing divert the mind, trusting Him as strength and shield who keeps what is committed and prospers, strengthens and blesses according to obedience.7MR 339.1–2 It means refusing the world's criterion and becoming truly converted to obey the living Word as a free heaven-born spirit bought by Christ's death, adorning Christ's doctrines, exerting positive influence, proving worthy by receiving every grace for perfect character.Ms 167, 1897, par. 10–11

That transformation shows appreciation for Christ's sacrifice, produces consistent harmonious character reaching perishing souls and presenting truth to save from ruin, and makes it law to eat, drink, dress and do all to God's glory in reverence for the Author of faith, letting no influence seduce from holy piety.Ms 167, 1897, par. 10–11 God's people must not shape character by human standards but receive truth into the heart to regulate life and form character, with truth working from within outward by the Spirit subduing and recreating after God's image shown in words, spirit and actions, tested by love to God supremely and neighbor as self.Lt 20a, 1893, par. 18–21

Character is transformed through Christ as faith purifies, refining taste and judgment, making the heart ready to receive the Word giving light, equipping to share kingdom life and help others come to Christ.Lt 86, 1896, par. 12–14 Truly receiving truth's principles transforms character, cleansing from sin and shaping after Christ's perfect life, requiring converting power in home and church with self-denial from every professor, conforming to His likeness under His yoke, refining the soul, establishing faith, giving clear judgment and bringing life into harmony with the divine.Lt 46, 1911, par. 23 Grace transforms the heart to cheerful obedience representing God, and growth in knowledge and usefulness bears His imprint.Ms 27a, 1900, par. 21

Transformation into Christlike moral character means purity, holiness, kindness, courtesy, humility, truthfulness, honesty, patience, chaste thoughts and freedom from pride rather than worldly values.Ms 37, 1885, par. 6–10 People are changed by beholding Jesus and forming character after the divine likeness, which youth serving Christ must seek rather than be shaped by worldly influences.Ms 217, 1902, par. 1–2 Transformation comes through conversion and receiving Christ's mind, looking to Christ not imperfect humans and letting God direct life toward His will and perfection.ST Sep 3, 1902

Becoming wholly transformed in Christ's purity is awakened by discerning the Saviour's perfection creating desire to be like Him, the more God is known the higher the ideal and more earnest the longing to reflect Him, and as the soul reaches after God the divine combines with the human to renew it while the longing heart waits only upon God. God's people must be enlightened about temperance and treatment of the body to secure health so infirmity does not hinder committed work.Lt 44, 1890, par. 4–5 Failure brings great loss, shutting light of good works, patience, gentleness, meekness, kindness, love and godliness from the world, and as a rule they are asleep to this, needing light and needing to impart it.Lt 44, 1890, par. 4–5

Safety is only in working out of self into perfect conformity to God's mind by surrender of self bringing likeness to Christ with Him as Pattern ever before one, without which one is in great danger.Lt 8, 1899, par. 5 All self-glorification must be cut away by realizing one is only the Lord's steward owing every faculty to Him.Lt 8, 1899, par. 5 Each must form character by God's elevated divine standard not any human mold, for only His measurement counts as essence of goodness and truth, obtaining understanding of relation to Creator and Redeemer and daily assimilating life to Christ's by bringing will and affections into subjection.21MR 273.4

God's people must not follow human precepts or selfish aims but be changed by truth and sanctification, cutting off selfishness because it opposes God's will and if allowed destroys a life of service.Ms 216, 1902, par. 6–7 All accepting Christ are separated by truth and brought into God's workshop where day by day He removes rough edges to prepare them for His kingdom, inward transformation revealed outwardly so words and steps show preparation for a better world with every step advance and highest aim to meet the divine standard.9MR 372.4 Being transformed by renewing is evidence of conversion, and a minister's wife should be so transformed before accompanying him lest she hinder his work.Lt 29a, 1872, par. 8–19

True Christianity by experience requires a renewed mind and sanctified heart as source of words and acts, for good language and correct precepts do not fulfill the verse when life remains untransformed, boastful and ruled by appetite and passion.Lt 3, 1870, par. 10 Bible religion is not systems, creeds, theories and tradition which worldly men could naturally understand, but has practical saving energy wholly from God as personal experience of His power transforming the entire man.8MR 185.2 Sanctification involves transformation, religion falls short without this change, the verse sets a standard every person must strive to reach, sanctification makes the heart increasingly like God and the will like His, and believers must become unlike the world and like Christ continually drawing near to learn His will.Ms 78, 1893, par. 34+2

Transformation comes through renewing by the Spirit and grace, tested by repentance, confession, forgiveness, becoming a new creature and obeying truth so as to be complete in Him.Lt 23, 1896, par. 28 For men of ability, deep thinkers honoring self and wandering into skepticism, chastening through affliction leading to seek old paths, repent and return to first love sweeps away mist, turns thought into new channels, transforms character, lifts aspirations heavenward, so love of money and ambition no longer drive but the Spirit's work is valued above gold and praise in the way for the ransomed.Ms 51, 1900, par. 5–6 Being transformed comes through repentance turning from departing Bible principles, work in wrong spirit and methods, following impulses, disregarding counsel, and transactions embarrassing the cause and grieving Christ.Lt 66, 1897, par. 6

It requires standing firm to principle in harmony with the Word, still possible even after repeated warnings because it is not yet too late to repent and change.Lt 66, 1897, par. 6 Minds confused in mist need the heavenly anointing to be thoroughly renewed so faith rests on high holy foundation instead of foundations torn down and perception weakened by seductive sentiments of Living Temple, turning from scientific theories as chaff from wheat to be fitted to sound the last warning.21MR 176.3–5 The verse means having a mind open to receive the Spirit and being transformed by grace through a new heart and mind asked from God.11MR 256.1+1

It forbids judging the messenger, finding fault and picking flaws when the message disagrees with ideas and standing to judge until objections clear, for without that new heart the message does not strike as at Minneapolis, giving place to the enemy to work coldness, unbelief and backsliding from little things.11MR 256.1+1 Thoughts are to be conformed to God's will and affections sanctified to His service, giving devotion of heart, mind, soul and strength and using noblest powers to do Him homage.Lt 143, 1904, par. 10–11 Attention must not be taken by objects concealing God nor self-worship mingled with true worship denying God in life, but thoughts lifted to Him to know Him better with sincere heart-worship in faith and hope and harmonious life.Lt 143, 1904, par. 10–11

The Spirit transforms minds and characters so they bear heaven's mold.14MR 196.3–197.3 Becoming like worldly associates in spirit and indulgence is conformity, associating with those without fear of God, yielding to inclination and appetite, relishing insipid degrading pleasures and low conversation, weakening moral power, injuring health and unfitting for work and worship.Lt 47a, 1887, par. 19 Being transformed is letting truth take hold and sanctify through thorough conversion and close connection with God, loving God and truth, realizing accountability, choosing different society and taking hold of eternal realities.Lt 47a, 1887, par. 19

Being conformed puts the world's stamp on parents and children when common earthly transactions become all-absorbing, so churches and families knowing truth remain asleep to the Lord's requirements and signs, frame a chosen religion and make business the grave of service.Lt 42, 1910, par. 7 The verse calls for converted spiritual eyesight and obedience in purity, for disobedience opens the way for fallen angels appearing as angels of God whose light is spiritual death.Lt 42, 1910, par. 7 Believers must not let fashionable society's habits decide conduct but be renewed to prove God's will, combining moral, intellectual and physical culture to become well-developed giving God the entire being.CE 20.1+3

Conformity in dress, food and homes contradicts profession, weakens truth's influence and hinders preaching, while plainness and modesty show sanctifying power.5T 206.2 Spending earnings on dress and pleasure with worldly influence lacks Christ's meekness, bears not God's mark and cannot shine as lights.Ms 10, 1892, par. 8 The verse calls for moral renovation of every heart in preparation to meet God, living it makes true believers while spurious faith is exposed by daily character, the standard being God's not one's own or the world's, part of unreserved surrender and preparation to meet the record with joy, to be studied, received and practiced not merely read so the Word cleanses life, for without change souls perish.Ms 175, 1899, par. 1–3+2

True conversion gives decided evidence in home life in honest Heaven-approved treatment of family, control of the tongue, end to gossip, blame, passion and hypocrisy, going to Jesus for help in duties and trials, life in harmony with Christ, obedience to parents, roots deep in the Word bearing fruit, for money cannot buy salvation and without changed life profession is valueless, misrepresents Christ, exerts evil influence and unfits for helping in meetings, selling periodicals or serving in tents.2T 185.2–186.1+2 Renewal includes self-government, humility, meekness, patience, gentleness, kindness and courtesy, for theory alone does not qualify for sacred service and without grace one harms rather than builds and is unfit to shepherd.2T 220.1–3 Sanctification reaches into life shaping words, acts and character, not mere outward praying and exhorting nor passing enthusiasm or fanaticism but bringing thoughts into conformity to God's will.2T 649.2–650.1+2

The world is an educating school where this choice is made, and transformation includes cultivating every organ in God's order, preserving simplicity, natural form and motions, keeping all machinery proportionately worked in harmony and organs in beautiful arrangement to serve God and glorify the Giver, not educating to meet customs of this degenerate age.Ms 117, 1898, par. 18+1 Those professing truth while unsanctified must be converted in this day of preparation, rid every unholy ambition, refuse affinity with the world that refuses Jesus, and set a high standard by proving God's will in life.Lt 208a, 1902, par. 45–47 The demand for entire consecration and separation, refusing to copy dead professors content with just enough religion to avoid censure, walking the self-denying narrow way giving up all, is not too strict.1T 240.2

When the way feels hard, Christ's agony sweating blood, strengthening by an angel, mocking in the judgment hall, purple robe and jests, thorns driven till blood flowed, mob crying for His blood, fainting walk to crucifixion, nails and hours of agony till angels veiled faces and sun hid light, puts all human self-denial in the shade.1T 240.2 For a school placed where God instructed, the verse calls to set-apart renewed life under His keeping, to build a wall against transgression for their good so blessing may be bestowed, realizing the Holy Spirit as much a person as God walks among them hearing every word and knowing every thought.7MR 299.1–2 A Christian cannot live in conformity, those entering God's city must live Christ's life with conduct reflecting the divine likeness, the whole mind made new, with careful Bible study comparing Scripture guiding service and resisting temptation.Lt 39, 1903, par. 20+1

The verse gives practical instruction to be obeyed by changing attitude and keeping self under control to continue in usefulness, setting a reachable standard of perfection whose heeding preserves success, with transformation through intelligent pure belief in Christ's grace placing feet on the eternal Rock.21MR 277.6 Believers must not be shaped by the world but separate from pleasures, remain steadfast rather than let influences fashion character, and live as shaped by Christ's example.STB 340.4+1 A renewed mind transforms, while carnal minds remain untransformed and may be lawless professing holiness while serving sin.RH Mar 8, 1870

Inheriting the kingdom requires transformation by grace in purity of heart and life and well-balanced character.5T 350.1 Character pleasing to God is formed not by earthly principles but divine ones Christ came to show, while following worldly principles brings condemnation and ruin.Ms 59, 1903, par. 8–9 Christ's religion changes mind and affections, subdues selfishness and brings pride low so God alone is exalted, requiring turning from worldly influences and firm connection with Christ lest the world overpower His Spirit and lead to ruin.5T 275.1–276.1 Transformation by grace comes through wholly surrendering letting grace subdue the proud heart, putting away self-righteousness, self-confidence and trusting own judgment to learn submission.3T 325.2

God gives precious victories righting wrongs and reforming character, not by fits, rashness or feeble efforts, for sanctification is not of a day or year but of a lifetime of continual effort for the Judgment, without which none could be happy in heaven.3T 325.2 Affliction can draw the whole soul toward God into entire conformity to His will as hearts are examined and lives reviewed.RH Feb 27, 1866 The renewed mind changed from earthly to spiritual outlook finds the Word beautiful and full of heavenly light, what seemed barren becoming life-giving whereas the earthly mind finds no pleasure in it.ST Mar 11, 1908

God's people are distinguished by a different way of thinking and living, rejecting love of earthly things and selfish disregard of Christ's principles through grace and love of God, with clear distinction between church and world arising when filled with love of Jesus and warning against sinful conformity.Ms 6, 1891, par. 31+1 Love of money and selfish gain conforms to worldly ways perverting abilities into grasping overbearing selfishness, while a sanctified heart using gifts in service shapes for good with humble influence.TCBMP 164.2–165.2 Selfishness and love of money show lack of transformation, love of worldly things hinders growth, love of world and self must be overcome through renewal to reform life and meet God's standard, the church must leave lukewarmness for an acceptable state, and one conformed rather than transformed as Sister Gargett and Sister G were described needs thorough conversion.TCBMP 164.2–165.2+4