2:141 Corinthians 2:14

The natural person guided only by human nature and the spirit of the world does not welcome the things of the Spirit of God but regards them as foolishness and cannot know them because they are spiritually discerned.STB 496.1–497.1+2 In contrast the spiritual person receives the Spirit's teaching, knows the things freely given by God, speaks them as the Holy Spirit teaches, judges all things, and has the mind of Christ.3MR 107.3–108.1+2 No human learning, education, philosophy, or eloquence can by itself give understanding of spiritual truth, for true knowledge comes from God and requires wisdom from the Holy Spirit.OEWP 19.2–23.1+2 A person cannot grow into this life from existing goodness but must be born again with a new heart, desires, purposes, and motives.SC 18.2+1 This is seen in the message of Christ crucified, which is foolishness to those who are perishing but God's power and wisdom to those who are called, and in Scripture itself, which was written under the Divine Spirit and can be understood only with that same Spirit's aid through humility, faith, prayer, and obedience.STB 496.1–497.1+3

The natural person, guided only by merely human nature and the spirit of the world and by selfish and worldly aims, does not receive or welcome the things of the Spirit of God.STB 496.1–497.1+3 To such a person they appear as foolishness, and he cannot know them because they are spiritually discerned.STB 496.1–497.1+4 Relying on merely human wisdom he cannot receive or understand the things of God, for God's wisdom is not the wisdom of the world or its rulers, and no human being can serve as the source of true wisdom for another.STB 496.1–497.1 There is a knowledge for every follower of Christ that the world cannot receive, and the nations of the earth do not know that they are lost nor the things that belong to their salvation.Ms 103, 1893, par. 27–28 When human maxims, traditions, and requirements are put above God's requirements to gain riches, honor, or power, the treasures of His word remain hidden.COL 106.1–2 The contrast is illustrated by the message of Christ crucified, which is foolishness to the Greeks but Christ as God's power and wisdom to those who are called, showing the Bible's standard set against the world's and why Christ was rejected.STB 496.1–497.1+1 Spiritual knowledge and spiritual experience are required to face the future, to meet opposition, and finally to be transferred to immortal life, changed if alive and raised from the grave if dead.Ms 111, 1909

The natural person is carnal, ruled by the spirit of the world, not with Christ in mind and heart, not born of the Spirit, and not a partaker of the divine nature.20MR 336.1–2+1 Therefore he cannot rightly appreciate, enjoy, or judge correctly the high, exalted truths of eternal value spread as treasures in God's Word.20MR 336.1–2+1 To him putting on the white robe of Christ's righteousness prepared for all guests at the banquet of the Word seems foolishness.20MR 336.1–2+1 His religious experience is left a matter of chance, a condition shown even by many who claim to believe in Christ but prove by words and actions that they are not partakers of the divine nature.20MR 336.1–2+1

In contrast, the spiritual person receives the Spirit's teaching and knows the things freely given by God.3MR 107.3–108.1+2 He speaks them not in words of human wisdom but as the Holy Spirit teaches, by comparing spiritual things with spiritual.3MR 107.3–108.1+4 He judges all things rightly yet is judged by no one, for he has the mind of Christ.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+4 Only the Spirit of God knows the things of God, and God has revealed by His Spirit the deep things that eye has not seen nor ear heard, with the Spirit searching all things even the deep things of God.Ms 40, 1900, par. 12–13+1 Every heart that receives Christ is entrusted with ability to discern Christ in His message, and spiritual understanding comes only from the highest authority through close seeking of God.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19

Growth in spiritual knowledge increases ability to distinguish between good and evil, and the Holy Spirit teaches those willing to be taught.20MR 336.1–2+1 Carnal minds cannot discern or comprehend the sacred things revealed by God, for spiritual things must be spiritually discerned.SLP 123.2–124.1 Worldly knowledge and human theories do not give experimental knowledge of salvation or of divine power working on the heart.SLP 123.2–124.1 Only the illuminating influence of Christ's gospel and God's sanctifying grace transform the carnal mind into harmony with spiritual things.SLP 123.2–124.1

Those without spiritual discernment treat sacred things with ridicule rather than sincerity, for spiritual truths are intended for sincere people.ExVEGW 64.4 Such a person may present clear teachings yet fail to grasp that they apply to his own life and character, keeping truth outside himself rather than receiving and obeying it.EDFCP 7.3 Depending on another person's judgment and experience does not give spiritual understanding, and depending on others instead of prayerfully seeking understanding for oneself reflects lack of discernment of spiritual things and of matters of God's kingdom.TBC1868 18.1+1 What is needed is a personal Christian experience.TBC1868 18.1

At Corinth the converts were carnal, even babes in Christ and babes in knowledge of Christ, though they might be wise in worldly knowledge.RH Aug 17, 1911+1 They were ignorant of the operations of divine power upon the heart and lacked experimental knowledge of salvation and divine grace, and therefore were unable to comprehend the mysteries of salvation, which to the person without spiritual discernment seem foolishness and can be understood only by spiritual discernment.AA 270.3–271.2+2 Because carnal minds cannot recognize or understand spiritual truths, which require spiritual discernment and which human theories and false theology cannot reveal, Paul had to adapt his teaching to their condition.RH Aug 17, 1911+1 He instructed them in the rudiments, the very alphabet, of the Christian faith, feeding them with milk and not with meat, sowing the seed of truth in simplicity for others to water afterward with spiritual light and knowledge in due season as the church was able to bear it, since only the gospel's light and God's sanctifying grace can transform the carnal mind into harmony with spiritual things.RH Aug 17, 1911+1

Envy and strife make the church weak and carnal, and at Corinth envy, strife, jealousy, evil-surmising, accusation, and divisions showed walking as men.Ms 67, 1900, par. 14–16+3 Saying I am of Paul and I am of Apollos, withdrawing from some from imagination and binding up with others, and cherishing prejudice, envy, jealousy, and evil surmisings against brethren, separates from brethren and from God.Ms 67, 1900, par. 14–16 Jealousy, evil-surmising, and accusation had closed their hearts against the full working of the Holy Spirit, and that course greatly hinders the manifestation of the Spirit of God as Comforter and Strengthener.Ms 67, 1900, par. 14–16+1 Minds distracted by envy, strife, and divisions cannot comprehend the deep spiritual truths of God's Word, for divine revelation cannot be rightly understood or appreciated without the aid of the Spirit by whom the Word was given.ST Jan 18, 1883+2 The hindrance remains until His people obey to be all of one mind, loving as brethren, pitiful and courteous.Ms 67, 1900, par. 14–16

Advanced human education and the wisdom of the world cannot take the place of a sound knowledge of God, for the natural man guided by the spirit of the world counts the spiritually discerned things of the Spirit of God as foolishness.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 The experiment of the world's wisdom was fully tested at the first advent of Christ and weighed in the balances and found wanting, for the world by wisdom knew not God and men did not know the true wisdom that comes from the Source of all good.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 Those who have received not the spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God know the things freely given by God and speak them not in words which man's wisdom teaches but as the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 Much of worldly learning must therefore be unlearned and counted as foolishness, as Moses learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians had to have its impression blotted out by forty years of humble experience caring for sheep and tender lambs before he could become a faithful shepherd of God's heritage without magnifying self.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 No wisdom of advanced education can take the place of schooling under the Divine Teacher, the only perfect Educator Jesus Christ, by which the spiritual man judges all things and has the mind of Christ.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77

Human learning, advanced education, philosophy, oratory, pomp and pride, and excellency of speech by themselves cannot give understanding of spiritual truth or take the place of sound knowledge of God.OEWP 19.2–23.1+4 True knowledge comes from God and is the highest education, for knowing Him and receiving wisdom from the Holy Spirit is what enables a person to grasp spiritual truth, understand it, put it into practice, and live in holiness.OEWP 19.2–23.1+4 The natural person guided by the spirit of the world counts the things of the Spirit as foolishness because they are spiritually discerned and can be known only by the Spirit which is of God.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+2 The experiment of the world's wisdom was fully tested at the first advent of Christ and weighed in the balances and found wanting, for the world by wisdom knew not God and did not know the true wisdom that comes from the Source of all good.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 Truth about the soon coming of the Lord and about Jesus Christ and Him crucified is spiritually discerned, so that a learned person can be brought to the knees by a poor person counted foolish who has no reasons of his own but repeats the message while the Spirit of God rests upon the words, and only God can transform character through the mighty power of the cross of Calvary.Ms 12, 1893, par. 19–21 Christ is the only perfect Educator whose instruction and method must be followed in the schooling of the Divine Teacher.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1

Much of worldly learning must be unlearned and counted as foolishness.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1 Moses, though learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, had to have its impression blotted out by forty years of humble experience caring for sheep and tender lambs before he could become a faithful shepherd of God's heritage without magnifying his own abilities and self.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+1

A mind trained only in worldly knowledge or worldly science cannot discern the deep things of God, and to such a mind they appear foolish.GW 310.1+4 When that mind is converted and sanctified, and the mind and heart are cleansed by the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, it can discern heavenly things and see God's divine power in the Word.GW 310.1+4 Finite reasoning, vain philosophy, and so-called science cannot by searching find out God, know the workings of His Spirit, measure the Creator, or grasp spiritual things apart from the Spirit of God.12MR 132.2+4 Without divine enlightenment and vital connection with God, people lack correct ideas of God's plans, ways, and Word, judge spiritual truth by finite worldly opinions, regard divine wisdom as foolishness, and either deny God and ignore His existence or limit His power by their own conceptions, so worldly-wise opinions should not be trusted or exalted as divine wisdom.Ms 4, 1882, par. 1–2+2 In Christ's day philosophers, legislators, and priests in pride could not interpret God's character, and poring over ancient oracles of the gods gave no help.12MR 132.2

To become wise in the things of God a person must open the heart to divine grace and become a fool in the sense God gives that word.12MR 132.2+1 The true wisdom is the hidden wisdom of God ordained before the world, which is Christ crucified, who to those called is Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God, hidden from the wise and prudent and revealed to babes.Lt 48, 1893, par. 50–52 God has destroyed the wisdom of the wise and brought to nothing the understanding of the prudent, and this wisdom is received by faith through demonstration of the Spirit and of power so that faith stands in the power of God and not in the wisdom of men or in enticing words and excellency of speech, with the lesson of humility and diligent study acknowledging that all is received from God and no one can glory as if he had not received it.Lt 48, 1893, par. 50–52 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of the wisdom needed to understand the deep truths of Scripture, which remain obscure to those lacking spiritual discernment, and learning without that wisdom has little worth.Ms 31, 1889, par. 1–2 Attempts to explain the Spirit's work solely by scientific principles lead toward skepticism, for the unregenerate heart cannot understand the influence of God's Spirit or the truths of pure religion by finite human reasoning alone, while true science and Inspiration are in harmony and claims that set science apart from God are false.MYP 189.3–190.1

Spiritual truth is learned by receiving not the spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God, by which people know the things freely given by God.3MR 107.3–108.1+4 That knowledge is spoken not in words which man's wisdom teaches but in words which the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.Lt 47, 1895, par. 75–77+3 The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God, reveals them, and teaches spiritual truth, and the writers of the Bible were directed and impressed by the Holy Spirit to write words given by God rather than words of human wisdom, so every word conveys momentous truth with virtue and force and changing a word or punctuation alters the meaning and destroys the lesson.Ms 114, 1898, par. 30–32+2 Therefore Scripture must be studied by comparing passages on the same subject so that one passage unlocks another, through close seeking of God and receiving and sharing the light He gives, bringing understanding beyond worldly wisdom.3MR 107.3–108.1+2 The verse contrasts the Bible's standard with the world's and shows why Christ was rejected by people in human ignorance and blindness of mind without true understanding of the Word and prophecy.3MR 107.3–108.1+1

The preaching of Christ crucified is the great illustration of this verse, for to the Greeks it is foolishness and to the Jews a stumbling-block, while to those who are called Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God, and to those perishing the cross is foolishness but to those being saved it is God's power.STB 496.1–497.1+2 One governed only by human nature cannot receive or know these things because they are spiritually discerned, and no learning, oratory, philosophy, pomp, or pride can open them, for God has made foolish the wisdom of this world.STB 496.1–497.1+2 Truth concerning the Lord's soon coming and Jesus Christ and Him crucified is spiritually discerned, so that a learned person may be brought to his knees by a poor person counted foolish who has no arguments of his own but repeats the message while the Spirit rests upon the words.Ms 12, 1893, par. 19–21 Those who have given life to worldly pursuits and cultivated sharp business traits after a worldly order are too worldly-wise to receive the things of the Spirit, and to them the preaching of the cross is foolishness, which is why few of business ability come into the truth and they do not enter in large numbers.Lt 56, 1893, par. 22–25 Only those who have received not the spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God can know the things freely given by God, speaking not in words which human wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches by comparing spiritual things with spiritual, and only God can transform character through the mighty power of the cross of Calvary.STB 496.1–497.1+1

Those who reject the inspired Scriptures' testimony concerning Christ's deity, pre-existence, and mission cannot be convinced by arguments however conclusive, because to the natural person the things of God's Spirit are foolishness and are known only by spiritual discernment.GC 524.2+1 Such rejection leaves them without a true conception of Christ's character and mission and of God's plan of redemption, and shows ignorance of God and His Son.GC 524.2+2 The priests, rulers, scribes, Herod, and soldiers who mocked Christ had no more power to perceive His divinity than brute animals.Ms 112, 1897, par. 13–17 His infinitely pure and stainless character under contempt, false accusation, crowning with thorns, spitting, striking, and derision was far greater evidence of His divinity than any demanded miracle, yet their coarse and debased minds were untouched by it.Ms 112, 1897, par. 13–17 Even God's voice from heaven declaring Him the beloved Son had no effect upon them, and nothing less than God's decided judgment would move them.Ms 112, 1897, par. 13–17

At the dedication of the Son of God the priest looked upon Him as any other poor child and neither felt nor saw anything unusual in Him.DA 55.1–2+1 Simeon, by contrast, was just and devout with the Holy Spirit upon him, and coming by the Spirit into the temple he understood the warnings of the Spirit and was deeply impressed that the infant being dedicated was the longed-for Consolation of Israel and Saviour.DA 55.1–2+1 He took Him in his arms and presented Him to God with a joy never felt before, showing that spiritual reality is known only through the Spirit and not by ordinary human perception alone.DA 55.1–2+1 Nicodemus's ironic response when Christ applied truth to him reveals the same inability of the natural person, despite religious standing and sincere desire to seek truth.DA 171.2–4 The plan of salvation can be discerned only spiritually, and its greatness becomes clearer as it is contemplated, especially by looking to Jesus dying on the cross and recognizing that human sin placed the innocent Sufferer there.RH Nov 28, 1912

Only by the enlightenment of God's Spirit can a person catch a precious sight of Jesus as the light of life and see the glory of Christ.Ms 20, 1892, par. 21–22+2 By beholding Him the beholder is changed from character to character in and through faith in Christ.Ms 20, 1892, par. 21–22+2 Turning from the picture of shortcomings to behold the atonement made brings rejoicing that one may be clothed with Christ's righteousness, in whom all fullness dwells with grace and pardon for every soul.Ms 20, 1892, par. 21–22+2 As by faith the gaze is fixed on Jesus, faith pierces the shadow and adores God for His wondrous love in giving Jesus the Comforter, and knows hope in Jesus and sonship to cry Abba Father, being sustained by Christ's grace in pain day and night.Ms 20, 1892, par. 21–22+2 If people are not drawn to Christ it is because they are not sensible of the greatness of the Father's love for fallen humanity, so the things of the Spirit are foolishness to them and they cannot know them because they are spiritually discerned.Lt 146, 1900, par. 19–21 Faith kindled in the soul through the Holy Spirit enables sight of the glory of Jesus which otherwise remains hidden, and it is by living, ever-increasing, pure faith that the soul sees and enjoys the holiness of Christ, receives His glory, and is kindled to decided action that demonstrates God's power.Lt 146, 1900, par. 19–21+2 Those who are offended by testing truth, become alienated from Christ, and refuse correction because of self-sufficiency show this natural state, and like the disciples who walked no more with Him they are separated as chaff from wheat.Lt 146, 1900, par. 19–21

The Bible was written by holy men under the inspiration of the Divine Spirit, and the aid of that same Spirit is indispensable to understanding its teachings.ST Jun 7, 1883 Spiritual things can be discerned only by those who study the word in humility and faith, with unwavering confidence in its supreme authority, gaining personal knowledge through earnest prayer for divine aid.ST Jun 7, 1883 The Scriptures must be received as the oracles of God, a divine communication as directly addressed to each hearer as a voice speaking from heaven, and taken as the rule of life, without which there is no hope of reform.ST Jun 7, 1883 Thus studied, the word exerts a molding influence upon mental and moral powers, quickening and ennobling the intellect and purifying the soul while erecting a mighty barrier against iniquity.ST Jun 7, 1883

The treasures of God's word remain hidden from the natural person whose mind is filled with worldly and ambitious thoughts, for such a one governed by worldly and selfish aims does not receive the things of God's Spirit, counts them foolishness, and cannot know them because they are spiritually discerned.COL 106.1–2+3 When human maxims, traditions, and requirements are put above God's requirements to gain riches, honor, or power, spiritual eyesight is lost and those treasures stay hidden.COL 106.1–2+2 All who seek for those treasures in sincerity find them.ST Jan 18, 1899+1

The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God, reveals them, and teaches spiritual truth, for only the Spirit of God knows the things of God.Ms 114, 1898, par. 30–32+2 Those who have received the Spirit which is of God can know the things freely given by God and speak them not in words taught by human wisdom but in words taught by the Holy Spirit, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19+2 The writers of the Bible were directed and impressed by the Holy Spirit to write words given by God rather than words of human wisdom, so every word conveys momentous truth with virtue and force, and changing a word or punctuation alters the meaning and destroys the lesson.Ms 40, 1900, par. 12–13 Receiving and sharing the light God gives brings understanding beyond worldly wisdom, while in human ignorance and blindness of mind without true understanding of the word and prophecy people reject the crucified Christ Jesus.Ms 114, 1898, par. 30–32+1 Every heart that receives Christ is entrusted with ability to discern Christ in His message, and the one spiritual in experience judges all things rightly and has the mind of Christ, with spiritual understanding coming only from the highest authority by the Holy Spirit's teaching through close seeking of God.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19+2

Without the Spirit's guidance people misinterpret the Scriptures, and those who search for discrepancies lack the spiritual insight to recognize truths that are plain and simple.SC 110.1 The Spirit reveals the things of God to those with implicit faith in Christ, impresses on their minds the vital truths on which salvation depends, and makes the way of life plain, so that Scripture's treasures become visible and precious when the Spirit shines light upon them.COL 113.1–2 Without the Spirit the word lacks interest and lack of interest comes from lacking the Spirit, but when the heart is brought into harmony with the word new life springs up and new light shines on its teachings, making it the voice of God to the soul.COL 113.1–2+2

Unaided human reason cannot understand spiritual truths or the spiritual lessons God has placed in the material world, and the human mind cannot grasp elevating truth or understand Christ's lessons without divine power working through the Holy Spirit.CT 376.1+1 Reason is God's gift, but understanding depends on the Spirit's aid and willingness to be taught, with the Holy Spirit sanctifying observation so that when the mind is freed from distorting influences it can receive Christ's lessons and understand true education.CT 376.1+1 Fallen people with vision obscured by sin misread nature, place it above God, and turn its lessons away from the Creator, so those who reject God's word cannot receive nature's lessons correctly and nature's teaching is perverted in their minds.COL 107.3

People not spiritually connected with God cannot understand spiritual things, as shown when Abraham's idolatrous relatives, friends, and kindred could not comprehend his motives or actions after God's call because they lacked close connection with heaven and spiritual discernment.4T 523.2–3+2 Their human influence could also interfere with the instruction God intended to give him, while his connection with heaven made his character and course different from theirs.4T 523.2–3+1 Spiritual realities, including God's grace revealed in the plan of redemption, are discerned spiritually, and when people value the light given to them their understanding is enlarged and ennobled and wider views of truth and the mysteries of eternal things open to their minds.5T 300.2 Human systems, wisdom, philosophy, and conjecture obscure revealed truth when people rely on them by human power alone instead of searching the Scriptures, for spiritual things can be discerned only through the Holy Spirit's power.Ms 58, 1898, par. 21–22

Assigning to human power what only the Spirit of God can accomplish leads to confusion of faith and darkness of mind.3SP 47.1 The Sadducees rejected Jesus' teachings because they refused to acknowledge the divine Spirit at work in Him, showing that spiritual truths cannot be understood through human power alone but must be spiritually discerned.3SP 47.1

Jealousy, suspicion, accusation and cherished carnal tendencies close the heart to the Holy Spirit, leaving people unable to grasp higher truths so that instruction must be limited to milk rather than deeper truths they would misunderstand or misuse.Ms 130, 1899, par. 13–16 Affections and interests fixed on earthly things make heavenly things unable to be discerned, loved or enjoyed, so that the things of the Spirit seem foolish because spiritual things are discerned spiritually, with understanding darkened and life alienated from Christ even under Christian profession.2T 138.2+1 Men given to worldly pursuits who cultivate sharp business traits in worldly lines become too worldly-wise to receive the things of the Spirit, with whole tenor of life and texture of character after a worldly order, so to them the preaching of the cross is foolishness and few of business ability come into truth.Lt 56, 1893, par. 22–25 Long-cultivated worldly tastes and habits make it hard to turn the mind toward spiritual things and know God by experience, and choosing worldly pride and ambition over Christ and the cross keeps worldly tastes and opinions barring understanding.5T 431.1+1

Love of wealth and the world turns the mind earthward, clouds spiritual things and paralyzes spiritual faculties, so the worldly person cannot see or value pure gospel truths and judges everything from a worldly standpoint.ST Dec 1, 1887 Pride and self-love resist the Spirit so the natural heart cannot discern the spiritual character of God's kingdom, and only daily working to change self-importance to Christlike meekness and humility enables perceiving spiritual things and duties owed to others.SPBC 188.1 Shutting the eyes to sins and corruption while choosing one's own ways brings blindness of mind and hardness of heart so the things of the Spirit cannot be discerned.2SP 52.4–53.1+2 When lifted by favor people forget frailties, trust own wisdom and judgment, misread blessings as proof of personal goodness, and shut eyes to sin and choose own ways, and then they are given up to blindness of mind and hardness of heart revealing the weakness and folly of the natural heart, humbling pride and self-exaltation, a danger especially near the close of time requiring humiliation, confession, repentance and renewal or else affliction and separation from favor.RH Jan 14, 1873

Minds clouded by evil cannot value spiritual truth by ordinary human judgment, for spiritual truth requires spiritual understanding, and those cherishing iniquity see truth as it is in Jesus as dark and distorted and turn from its light, while its value is recognized only through diligent effort, prayer, reflection and the Holy Spirit's light upon what must be known from revelation.CE 86.1+1 Minds occupied with worldly things have little interest in eternal things because without vital connection to God they do not receive or understand the things of the Spirit which seem foolish as spiritually discerned, being controlled by another leader who keeps them in darkness from seeing evidence of truth.Ms 114, 1898, par. 11–12 Moral senses dulled by sin fail to discern truth as sacred and important, so presenting truth and error on an equal level lets the uninformed be swayed by arguments against truth and miss its strength.GW 379.2–3

Abusing the stomach bars discernment of spiritual things, for overeating, eating too rapidly, eating disagreeing foods at one meal, crowding the stomach with unhealthful food that decomposes, and sugar fermenting and clouding the brain benumb brain power and disease brain nerves, while afflicting the stomach afflicts the soul.Ms 93, 1901, par. 15–20 The imprudent eater is disqualified for wise counsel and for planning God's work, saying Nay in council when he should say Yea and Amen and proposing wide-of-the-mark measures, with self-indulgence weakening gratitude, barring witness for truth, and causing dissension, strife, discord, impatient words, unkind deeds, dishonest practices and passion, whereas self-denying temperance giving the stomach recovery, keeping the brain clear, and eating and drinking to God's glory enables discernment.Ms 93, 1901, par. 15–20 Lustful appetite gratified benumbs the mind and must be subdued not to hinder understanding, and persisting in tobacco and liquor destroys God-given appreciation by benumbing sensibilities of soul so sacred and heavenly things and God Himself cannot be discerned or appreciated.Lt 5, 1868, par. 8–9+1

A heart not fully surrendered with will unsubmitted cannot receive or know the things of the Spirit which are foolishness to it because spiritually discerned, but devises and plans without Him who is mighty in counsel, treats His messengers and messages with Pharisaic prejudice and criticism, drives holy angels away, and remains in the deception and blindness revealed at Minneapolis.Ms 48, 1891, par. 1–4 Blinded by self-love such a one loses spiritual eyesight to distinguish sacred from common and to see self truly, and only humbling before God, striving in prayer to enter the strait gate, drawing nearer to God, and seeking Jesus with contrite heart as precious pearls gains discernment, the mind of Christ, and Christlike work and speech.Ms 48, 1891, par. 1–4 When God sends rays of light from the open sanctuary door, Satan stirs minds to resist the light, crowd down God's appointed channels, and scorn message and messengers because watchmen have not kept pace with opening providence.Ms 37, 1890, par. 17 Men in trust with evidence piled on evidence that Spirit-indicted testimonies warn and save may still walk in darkness, failing to discern where and how God works, having eyes yet seeing not, ears yet hearing not, understanding yet understanding not, hardened by reproofs and warnings that should bring correction without despising chastening.Ms 62, 1890, par. 29

Following natural hearts while rejecting warnings and reproof leaves people unable to discern God, blinded by error and working against light.Lt 14, 1883, par. 3 Willingly associating with tramplers of God's law puts out spiritual eyesight even in church members so piety, fear of God, faithfulness and loyalty lose keeping power, while only those with spiritual sight and heavenly anointing understand and value truth and see the worth of Christ and His followers.Ms 6, 1892, par. 20–23 Worldly association dazzles senses with tinsel and glamour, making Christ's humble unassuming life seem unattractive and His loyal followers commonplace, until truth in Jesus becomes a rock of offense stumbled over, with departure to seducing spirits calling truth error and error truth.Ms 6, 1892, par. 20–23 Turning from knowledge of God to knowledge of man confuses and blunts perceptions so the Spirit when revealed is unrecognized, bright light finds no entrance, truth makes slight impression, convincing arguments are unheeded, warnings unapplied, and God-given powers explain away impressions while deceived into thinking to serve God as Christians.Ms 69, 1897, par. 14

Allowing a strong human mind to control and confuse judgment and merging individuality in another leaves a person weak and incapable of understanding, for one unprepared to see in the Spirit's light cannot see what ought to be seen nor comprehend spiritual counsel, which then seems as idle tales without submission to the Holy Spirit and transformation of character.Lt 133, 1901, par. 1–2 Human praise and exaltation can turn even one who once did God's will to follow his own way and refuse counsel, as Solomon's weakness revealed the natural man's spirit and likeness.RH Dec 14, 1905 The unrenewed man counts the Spirit's operation foolishness and cannot see the gospel's beauty, power and mystery in salvation because wise in own estimation and puffed up by vain philosophy, while to the humble the Word is revealed as God's power to salvation.ST Nov 3, 1898 Refusing the Spirit's quickening leaves spiritual blindness where holiness has no beauty and sin's deformity is unseen, like the physically blind unable to see flowers, stars, sun and moon, and willful blindness claiming to guide others while rejecting given light and following Satan is especially dreadful.ST Nov 6, 1893

Loving the world and filling the heart with idols rejects God's Spirit so He cannot reveal Himself, for spiritual things are understood only by spiritual discernment.ST Jan 20, 1898 Those walking in darkness reject light and cannot rightly receive or understand the message, while those walking in light follow Jesus, though the message is contradicted and misconstrued by those unwilling to hear, receive or understand.Lt 24, 1882, par. 2–6 Without Christ people fail to see the sacred character of spiritual things and may scoff, for spiritual things are discerned only spiritually.Ms 15, 1886, par. 26 Earthly-minded people even with great artistic skill, without sharing the divine nature, cannot grasp heavenly conceptions or portray Christ in whom divinity was clothed with humanity, reducing Him to commonplace earthly images.Ms 75, 1886, par. 3–4 The natural mind unless under the Holy Spirit follows strong traits to extremes in spirit and language, producing objectionable distinction and unchristian disposition in speech and action unacceptable in heaven where it would bring warfare and a second rebellion, while thorough conversion from the natural mind is known by all associates even in the face, with the Bible as guidebook.20MR 352.1–2

Pride, self-esteem and self-exaltation blind the natural person governed by human nature from seeing spiritual things clearly and recognizing Christ's character, which must be formed within through conversion and grace.Ms 93, 1903, par. 9–10 Without vital union people put human opinions ahead of God's word and cannot rightly judge divine matters, while a sanctified heart quickens the mind and living faith gives strength and calmness.ST Mar 13, 1884 One not spiritually minded cannot properly understand spiritual things, for discerning God's mind and will requires spiritual perception, without which neither spiritual things nor Satan's devices are clearly recognized.4T 37.2 Doubt and unbelief diminish response to God's Spirit and open the mind to Satan, so what seems foolish to the carnal mind is God's power while what God calls foolish seems wise to it, and spiritual truths cannot be grasped carnally.4T 584.2–585.1 The unrenewed heart cannot comprehend the Spirit's operation or biblical mysteries which appear foolish, while their beauty, power and mystery are revealed to humble teachable seekers desiring to know and do God's will.4T 585.2–586.1

People without connection to God cannot spiritually discern divine things, and though claiming belief they judge His servants by ignorance of truth and righteousness, fostering doubt, unbelief and division by words and influence.ST Jan 24, 1884 Minds occupied by worldly concerns and unbelief lack knowledge of divine things and cannot be relied on to recognize or support God's work, which needs the Holy Spirit's light rather than human wisdom or influence.Ms 165, 1899, par. 40–42 One guided by natural heart and mind cannot receive or know spiritual truth because discerned through the Holy Spirit, which human reasoning cannot replace when truth is presented, and those refusing the Spirit's teaching because inherited or cultivated wrong tendencies press for recognition remain governed by nature and cannot discern.Ms 27, 1902, par. 29 Discerning requires relying on the Lord, using every opportunity to come to light, and receiving the Holy Spirit's baptism, which none feeling safe and needing no religious influence, remaining apart from holy influences, can do.19MR 17.3 Rejecting the Spirit's work and refusing humility leaves spiritual warnings misunderstood and unreceived unto changed conduct, for spiritual things are discerned only through God's Spirit.Ms 240, 1902, par. 2–4 Those setting no higher value on God's messages than on human productions cannot discern God's things until coming into closer connection with heaven, for spiritual things require spiritual discernment.Ms 31, 1890, par. 22

The natural person cannot receive or understand the things of God's Spirit, for they appear as foolishness and can only be discerned spiritually, and no one can develop into spiritual life out of goodness already possessed but must be born again to receive a new heart with new desires, purposes and motives.SC 18.2+1 The natural person is the world that cannot receive the Spirit of truth because it neither sees nor knows Him, does not receive Christ's drawing and invitation, does not desire truth, and following its own way and will sees nothing desirable in Christ.Ms 49, 1897, par. 1–4 Natural growth alone cannot produce symmetrical character; only new birth by God through receiving and believing in Christ can do it.Ms 49, 1897, par. 1–4

Left to self the natural person remains only what hereditary tendencies, nationality, education and circumstances have made, unchanged in nature.2MR 92.4+1 Change comes only by Christ's grace, making a new person with a new heart, new purposes and new impulses.2MR 92.4+1 Then the person receives Christ's life-giving word, which is spirit and life, as eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God, and bears fruit in heart, in lips and in character, some thirty, some sixty and some a hundredfold.2MR 92.4+1

The humble in heart who have faith in the Son are transformed in character and become spiritual so as to discern spiritual things, passing from death to life, from children of wrath to children of God.RH Aug 10, 1911+1 This is through the infinite sacrifice of the Son as propitiation for the transgressions of the repenting sinner, with God's wisdom enlightening the mind to behold wondrous things out of His law.RH Aug 10, 1911 That enlightenment brings pardon, righteousness that will bear God's scrutiny, victory over the enemy, and eternal life and joy, enabling a life of overcoming in Christ.RH Aug 10, 1911+1 The natural self-centered self must die and Christ take possession of the soul, so that life is governed by Him rather than by uncontrolled temper and passion and is brought into harmony with God's Spirit.4T 348.3 Through Christ's incarnation God's power is revealed, enabling those who do not readily submit self to God to overcome evil tendencies and change imperfect dispositions so that God's will may be fulfilled in them.17MR 291.4–292.2

Bible truth is a matter of faith alone, and only those who come as a little child can enter the kingdom, for spiritual things can only be understood in a spiritual way.Ms 137, 1907, par. 1–3+2 The unrenewed heart cannot comprehend the Spirit's operation or the mysteries of biblical religion, counting them foolishness while wise in its own estimation and puffed up by vain philosophy, and cannot see the beauty, power and mystery of the gospel in the plan of salvation.4T 585.2–586.1+1 To the humble and teachable who desire to know and do God's will the Word is revealed as God's power to salvation.4T 585.2–586.1+1 This understanding is given to every soul who truly accepts Christ by faith and drinks deeply of the waters of salvation, received by grace through faith with Christ alone as hope of eternal life, and proved by humility of heart, Christ's meekness and lowliness, a well-ordered life and godly conduct, exalting Christ instead of self and becoming lights in church and world as witnesses and overcomers by the Lamb's blood and the word of testimony.Ms 137, 1907, par. 1–3 Living, active, abiding faith recognizes God's will, receives His promises and gains benefit from His Word, not through self-reliance or confidence in own righteousness but through dependence on Christ.Lt 4, 1889, par. 55–57

Abiding in Christ gives power to discern spiritual truth, and growth in grace is the evidence of that abiding.TSSW 58.1 Only the spiritually minded readily discern spiritual things, constantly feeding on Christ, learning daily in His school, progressing in goodness and becoming fitted to labor for God with life-giving influence.Ms 73a, 1900, par. 7–9 To such the Bible is the study growing ever more precious, while magazines, newspapers and books with nothing heavenly or divine lose attraction.Ms 73a, 1900, par. 7–9 As they fix the mind intently on Scripture to draw a fresh supply of grace each day, God draws near and speaks in language that cannot be misunderstood.Ms 73a, 1900, par. 7–9 Those who have not so learned lack this discernment.Ms 73a, 1900, par. 7–9

Spiritual knowledge and spiritual experience gained by studying the Word and comparing spiritual things with spiritual are required to face the future, to meet opposition, and finally to be transferred to immortal life, changed if alive and brought up from the grave if dead.Ms 111, 1909+1 Everyone preparing for eternal life should read the second chapter of First Corinthians at home and think it over with personal application to understand God's will and be ready for translation.Ms 111, 1909, par. 28–30+1 That chapter shows the difference between the spiritual and the carnal, and that many who think they are prepared for the Lord's coming are not.Ms 111, 1909, par. 28–30+1 Those who remain as babes in Christ cannot discern what they need and lay hold upon it.Ms 111, 1909, par. 6–9 Applying the verse separates hindrances, reveals God's will, brings freedom, makes men all light in the Lord, and leads each one to confess Christ and come out of darkness into His marvelous light.Ms 111, 1909, par. 28–30

To receive the things of the Spirit believers must place themselves in right relation to truth, gain an experience that brings close connection with God, trim their lamps with the oil of grace, recognize Christ and understand His will, and be fed with heavenly manna by searching the Word instead of letting earthly temporal things absorb time and attention.Ms 111, 1909, par. 6–9 Each person must individually know what the Spirit says to the churches and what the Lord requires of them.Lt 120, 1908, par. 4–6 Without that individual spiritual knowledge and daily conversion to God, forming a character after the divine similitude, watching and praying and trusting in the living Word, a person will fail and lose bearings.Lt 120, 1908, par. 4–6 No one can continue to do as they please and still be prepared to meet the Lord when He comes in the clouds of heaven with power and glory; now is the time and opportunity to be deeply in earnest, gaining an experience in the things of God in preparation for the scenes that shall shortly take place and for the future life.Lt 120, 1908, par. 4–6

God's law is the standard of character to which man is now required to conform and by which he will be judged in the last great day, with men dealt with according to light received, talents bestowed, and opportunities and privileges improved.Lt 2, 1901, par. 4–8 Christ gave His life that church members might be sanctified through the truth and do the work made possible for them by taking hold of His strength and making peace with Him.Lt 2, 1901, par. 4–8 Guilt and punishment are measured not merely by personal rejection of salvation but by influence exerted in encouraging others in sin, keeping others from becoming laborers together with God, and drawing or failing to draw others into the kingdom.Lt 2, 1901, par. 4–8 Those who reject Christ and refuse to wear His yoke of restraint and obedience and surrender all to God place themselves on the side of the great apostate in open contempt of the offer of salvation, make others more bold and defiant, and aggravate guilt and punishment by the extent of wrong influence on others in impenitence.Lt 2, 1901, par. 4–8

No man dare place himself as judge of another man's experience, conscience, duty, or work by human judgment, lest he interrupt the Lord's plans.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19 Every heart that receives Christ is entrusted with ability to discern Christ in His message, and he that is spiritual in experience judges all things rightly.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19 Spiritual understanding comes only from the highest authority by the Holy Spirit teaching, through close seeking of God and comparing spiritual things with spiritual, while in human ignorance and blindness of mind without true understanding of the Word and prophecy men reject the crucified Christ Jesus.Ms 128, 1908, par. 15–19 Careful study of the second chapter of First Corinthians gives a person a glimpse of his present condition as one without spiritual discernment when discernment is perverted.Lt 51a, 1895, par. 27 That sight stops him from leading other souls in false paths, so that while mercy still lingers he will fall on the Rock and be broken and Jesus Christ will build him up into His own likeness.Lt 51a, 1895, par. 27

The highest qualification of mind cannot take the place of true simplicity and genuine piety, and the Bible studied only as human science never teaches its beauty and its power to save the believing soul.Ms 64, 1895, par. 6–7 If the practice of the Word is not brought into the life, the sword of the Spirit has not wounded the natural heart to pierce and cut away the sinful shrines where self is worshipped.Ms 64, 1895, par. 6–7 Believing Jesus to be the world's Redeemer is not enough; He must be received as personal Saviour and personal Redeemer, with truth brought into the soul-sanctuary to explore and search out the defiling things that spoil life and character, for without this the soul will never see the kingdom of God.Ms 64, 1895, par. 6–7 Entering into the spirit of new and untried missionary work requires spiritual discernment, and everyone brought in connection with the light God communicates has character proved and tested by that light.Lt 26a, 1891, par. 1

Without expansion and development and increase of faith and holiness consistent with light shining on the pathway, and without growing in experience proportionate to unfolded light and truth, there is blindness that cannot see and discern the deep things of God.Lt 26a, 1891, par. 1 Those who appreciate the light God has given have freshness and power and growth in grace and diffuse light to others.Lt 26a, 1891, par. 1 Those who turn from obedience and oppose the binding claims of the law of God are under the inspiration of the archdeceiver and blinded by his power, so they mock, sneer, laugh, and try to provoke advocates of truth to retaliation, impatience, and sharp words.Lt 21, 1895, par. 8–9 Believers in truth must therefore let the spirit of truth and righteousness control deportment, words, and pens, cherish Christlike meekness, fine perceptions, and nobility of soul, present Jesus and advanced truth, ignore disbelieving smiles and sneers, handle no carnal weapons, and give no currency to error by repeating the statements of advocates of error.Lt 21, 1895, par. 8–9

Spiritual understanding is required of those who come near to God and carry responsibility in His work, for without it they cannot reason correctly about spiritual things because they regard them as foolishness.Ms 91, 1899, par. 5 True spiritual discernment means knowing the facts that carry weight in making decisions, being sober-minded and cautious, and for those who hold office viewing every matter wisely as workers together with God, and failure to discern hinders higher education.Ms 91, 1899, par. 5+1 Knowledge of the things freely given by God comes only to those who have received the Spirit of God, who speak them not in words of human wisdom but in words the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.Lt 119, 1899, par. 3 The verse is a lesson for all in bearing the message to the world while working vigilantly in view of the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, and those who are waiting and watching and working will speak sound words among others who are also waiting and watching.Lt 119, 1899, par. 3

Unconsecrated workers who lack spiritual life and discernment treat sacred things as common and ordinary; until Christ lives in them and they receive the water of life as a well springing up unto everlasting life, they cannot refresh or bless others.STM2 18.1+4 Those in responsible positions who rely on their own smartness lack that discernment, marked by selfishness and self-sufficiency, because they do not pray always, watch unto prayer, feel the sacredness of the work, learn every day in the school of Christ, or humble themselves under God.Lt 40, 1892, par. 12–15 Only co-workers with Jesus Christ divested of self, warmed with love for Jesus and souls, exercising wisdom from Christ with patience, charity, and faith, have spirituality to discern spiritual things and deal rightly with minds.Lt 40, 1892, par. 12–15 They need daily learning and earnest prayer, virtue and wisdom from heaven to handle God's work, for without spiritual discernment human depravity can overcome them and lead them to vanity.STBk 91.2+1

Except they repent, their candlestick will be removed out of its place.ST2 34.1+1 Those who have not surrendered to the Spirit, opened hearts to Jesus, and had minds and hearts refined and perceptions spiritualized and ennobled cannot see eternal things according to their rich value and cannot appreciate the precious jewels of truth and light.Lt 20a, 1893, par. 51–53 Like men in the schools of the rabbis too wise in conceit to be taught, they are blind and in need of divine enlightenment, and God entrusts His truth to humble men emptied of self who maintain a living connection with Him.Lt 20a, 1893, par. 51–53 They are not to be placed in positions of holy trust nor set to decide upon the character and value of truth presented by others, nor undertake to guide and direct God's servants or hold a leading position.Lt 20a, 1893, par. 51–53+1

A man whose heart has not been changed by genuine religious experience has little of the Spirit of Christ and little divine enlightenment, and through temptation he himself becomes a tempter who leads associates into false paths.Ms 23, 1891, par. 27–30 Under Satan's influence he treats messages from God's throne as forgeries while accepting lies Satan has forged as truth.Ms 23, 1891, par. 27–30 The human mind unless worked by the Holy Spirit can make grave errors in judging spiritual matters, including a person's worth in God's sight, which can lead to eternal loss of the soul.Lt 55, 1902, par. 14 A person not balanced by the Spirit of God cannot rightly receive spiritual correction or understand true condition.Lt 12, 1888, par. 6

The world and unbelievers do not know the Father or the Son and have no spiritual discernment as to the character of God's work, as to what shall be done or shall not be done.STBk 111.1+1 People governed by worldly wisdom regard God's Spirit's truth as foolishness and cannot provide sound spiritual support or discern the work entrusted to His servants, so a conference lacking spirituality cannot rightly perceive spiritual things.Ms 165, 1899, par. 38–39+2 Those employed in any department of the work whereby the world may be transformed must not enter into alliance with unbelievers, hear their counsel, or follow the plans they suggest.STA 111.1 Suggestions from those who know not the work God is doing for this time weaken the power of God's instrumentalities, and by accepting them the counsel of Christ is set at naught; God's workers must obey orders from above, with light and understanding from the Holy Spirit rather than human wisdom or influence.STBk 111.1+2

Without spiritual sight people frame plans by worldly standards and principles and need God to open their eyes so they can see as He sees and work as Christ worked.ST2 10.2+1 With that sight God's watchmen recognize danger to His people and warn them clearly.ST2 10.2 Without that discernment an unbelieving spouse cannot recognize God's claims on a Christian or understand the believer's religious duties and devotion to Christ.4T 506.2 Every laborer in the vineyard must have imprinted on the soul the deep things eye has not seen nor ear heard which God has revealed by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things even the deep things of God which only the Spirit of God knows.Ms 29, 1893, par. 6–7

Those who have received the Spirit know the things freely given by God and speak them not in man's wisdom but as the Holy Ghost teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual, and he that is spiritual judges all things and has the mind of Christ.Ms 29, 1893, par. 6–7 Every laborer must learn at the foot of the cross the lessons to be communicated, preaching Christ crucified plainly to bring people to the cross instead of preaching to please ears with excellency of speech.Ms 29, 1893, par. 6–7 Keeping self out of sight while lifting up Jesus and keeping the peril of neglecting eternal interests in view is required, lest the work stand in the wisdom of men and not in the power of God and fail to bring sheaves to Jesus Christ.Ms 29, 1893, par. 6–7

When truth is presented against worldly pleasures and corrupting influences, an unconsecrated minister whose own soul is unmoved by it cannot rightly convey its spiritual force; such ministry does harm and lowers the standard.GW92 66.3 Without the Spirit attending the communication of truth, it has no power against opposing influences; when the Spirit demonstrates God's power through truth, the natural heart rebels.2T 343.3–344.2 Those who scoff at sacred things and distort truth show they lack the discernment needed to understand it and cannot preach with the Spirit's power.11MR 90.3–91.1 Those without the spirit of Christ do not discern spiritual things and are therefore unfit to teach others how to be saved, even if they try.STBk 52.1+1

Their failure is evident in unbelief, dishonesty, murmuring, and discouraging speech accompanying the lack.Ms 3, 1890, par. 14 Those closely connected with God know His voice and are grateful when He points out errors through the testimonies of His Spirit and reproof; self-exaltation and trust in self weaken faith in those testimonies and lead people to see less of God in them.5T 134.2+1 Those not enlightened by the Spirit cannot rightly perceive spiritual condition or the truth of reproof, and a carnal mind blinded by sin cannot discern the import and purpose of the testimonies.5T 682.1+1

Someone may present clear truth yet fail to recognize that it must shape his own life and character, and cannot properly understand God's Word or give others its teaching at the right time when he cannot discern the Spirit's testimony reproving him.Ms 1a, 1890, par. 15–16 People who read counsel only hastily may reject it when it exposes sinful indulgences; when eyes are opened they can discern spiritual matters clearly.Lt 29, 1882, par. 8 The Spirit must quicken and strengthen perception and reasoning so people can detect Satan's advances and stand against worldly customs presented under friendship, discern God's mind and Satan's devices, and give inquiring minds quickening influence to grasp truth.ST Jan 19, 1882+1 People blinded by error and superstition cannot perceive truth's force by own understanding; the Spirit must bring truth home so they see clearly.ST Aug 30, 1883

A heart separated from God by self-will cannot rightly discern spiritual and eternal things: senses become confused, and it may mistake Satan's voice for God's.MYP 156.1–4 Spiritual things are recognized when the soul remains close to God rather than following an unsanctified heart.MYP 156.1–4 Those who follow in the footsteps of the Lord and trust Him who is spirit and life to the believer will be misunderstood by the world which cannot understand spiritual things, but they are to go straightforward in spite of being misunderstood.Ms 37, 1908, par. 32 Those without spiritual discernment are unmoved even by the most marked evidences of God's workings; in every age, in great light as in great darkness, they complain, question, find fault, accuse, and sit in judgment upon sacred things.20MR 242.3

With many truth has little power upon mind and character because it does not sanctify the receiver.20MR 242.3 Truth separated from Jesus is powerless, but truth received as it is in Jesus has telling power upon the whole man, and a light goes forth from the genuine believer that acts upon the heart because it bears the divine credentials.20MR 242.3 People who remain unchanged while continually exposed to revealed truth grow harder and become less affected by God's truth and work.STPW91 8.2 They can become destitute of the Spirit's influence, unable to discern eternal things, and treat them as ordinary matters.STPW91 8.2

Religion is not merely rites, ceremonies, creeds, theories, traditions, or investigation that anyone can understand as worldly things, but a practical saving experience and saving power from God through His renewing work transforming the whole person.RH Dec 7, 1911+3 Knowing Christ spiritually by faith as the glorified Redeemer is more than having seen Him bodily or knowing Him only as He appeared on earth or holding a mistaken human conception.RH Dec 7, 1911+1 The natural person may hear scriptural arguments yet refuse conclusions, while the Spirit enables true understanding.RH Dec 7, 1911 The gospel's self-denying spirit is therefore opposed to the spirit of the world, including efforts to establish Christ's kingdom as an earthly dominion enforced by human authority.DA 508.4–509.1

People guided by worldly principles regard the gospel's self-denial as foolish, which explains why worldly rank, splendor, and recognition cannot serve as basis for proclaiming the gospel, which depends instead on faith and obedience.RH Jan 18, 1906 Understanding depends on the Spirit, not on learning or intellectual ability alone.ST Nov 7, 1892 Spiritual truth may be deep enough to engage the wisest, yet simple enough for a child and understandable to the humblest, who can receive it and apply its promises.ST Nov 7, 1892 Christ's teaching awakens desire to know God; a sense of need and hunger for righteousness is evidence Christ is working in the heart and the Holy Spirit can provide what people cannot do for themselves.ST Nov 7, 1892

Understanding requires grace giving every asking soul deep increasing interest in knowledge of the Word and cultivating habit of deep attention and digging for truth as for hidden treasures, so what once held no special interest opens to the diligent seeker and rewards faith with hidden pearls, enabling those who had not discerned light to discern truth and righteousness and gather and cherish every divine ray.Ms 40, 1891, par. 31 True spiritual discernment is the eyesalve that enables clear spiritual sight, and it is greatly lacking and greatly needed.Ms 143, 1901, par. 23–24 A teacher guided by the Holy Spirit, who loves Christ's service, has spiritual discernment and spiritual life.CT 362.2

The natural unconverted person needs the Spirit to work upon the heart and needs conversion; without that work people remain self-sufficient, follow own plans and will, and church members remain weak instead of depending upon God.Lt 292, 1907, par. 6–7+2 Truth searches the heart and reproves hidden sin, and its teachings conflict with human desires, which explains why truth is unpopular and its advocates persecuted and misrepresented.ST May 2, 1878 Believers should seek the Spirit's light through daily prayer and trust God's Word so they can comprehend spiritual things, cooperating with God since salvation involves both the Spirit's sanctifying work and faith in truth.FE 188.2

The second chapter of First Corinthians is to be studied and practiced in learning total abstinence from alcohol and stimulating drinks, arousing moral powers, looking to Jesus for grace to overcome unnatural craving, presenting the body a living sacrifice in healthful condition for service, keeping intellect clear and active, thinking soberly, and controlling all powers.20MR 106.2–107.1 The reference accompanies a warning to let God guide steps, showing spiritual discernment and divine guidance matter in choosing where to go.Lt 384, 1904, par. 10–12 Spiritual truths cannot be understood by a person not prepared to receive the Spirit's light; the mind must be capable of spiritual discernment before such truths can be comprehended.18MR 263.1–2

The natural heart cannot discern the spiritual character of God's kingdom because pride and self-love resist the Spirit.SPBC 188.1 The Spirit must work daily to change the heart from self-importance to Christlike meekness and humility; through divine light and the Spirit's work a person can perceive spiritual things and recognize duties owed to others.SPBC 188.1 Those who do not love and fear God cannot understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, which are mysteries of mysteries to them because they cannot approach the throne of Him who dwells in unapproachable light.Ms 15, 1896, par. 10–12 By contrast God's servants understand, as Daniel could make known and interpret Nebuchadnezzar's dream when magicians, astrologers, soothsayers, and Chaldeans could not.Ms 15, 1896, par. 10–12

People fixed on worldly concerns do not recognize the value or beauty of divine things: the things of the Spirit seem foolish because understanding of what is right, true, and holy has become confused.4SP 230.1–231.1 Blinded by the god of this world and centered on earthly treasures, they lack true perception of God's glory, which explains why professed Christians with stronger ties to earth than heaven reject the first angel's heart-searching message and prefer worldly wisdom.4SP 230.1–231.1 God's light may therefore be regarded as foolishness by people whose hearts are not softened by grace and who have lost connection with Him.Ms 107, 1899, par. 1–4

Men with no depth of religious experience lack spiritual insight; men not self-denying and self-sacrificing, whose hearts are untouched by human and divine sympathy, cannot grasp the experience of those who invested means and lives and denied self to advance God's cause, cannot show intuition and discernment to respect and treat courteously those God used as instruments to carry the work upward and forward, and cannot do to others as God would have them do.Lt 16g, 1892, par. 7–8 Men never converted, never bowing will to heaven, never experiencing forgiveness, regard a truthful refined uplifted ennobled life restoring God's image as bondage.Ms 81, 1897, par. 16–17 When the Word is opened and precious treasures presented, they do not receive surrounding blessings, but Satan works through lower appetites and passions to make blessings of none effect and plants evil seed to be communicated to others; sincere conversion is needed, nothing must direct the mind into wrong channels, and doing one's best is all the Lord requires.Ms 81, 1897, par. 16–17

The illuminating Spirit of Christ enables people to perceive truth and behold the glory of the Redeemer in His character; without this, darkness prevents clear understanding and acceptance, for spiritual things are discerned only through spiritual vision.15MR 90.2 The natural eye can never behold the comeliness and beauty of Christ.Ms 29, 1900, par. 5 Only inward illumination of the Holy Spirit enables discernment, by revealing to the soul its true hopeless helpless condition without the mercy and pardon of the Sin-bearer and by revealing the all-sufficiency of Christ, His infinite mercy, love, benevolence, and glory.Ms 29, 1900, par. 5 Living active abiding faith recognizes God's will, receives promises, and gains benefit from truths of the Word, not through self-reliance or confidence in own righteousness but dependence on Christ.Lt 4, 1889, par. 55–57

Only those with spiritual sight can understand and value spiritual truth, while those without the heavenly anointing cannot see the worth of Christ or His followers.Ms 6, 1892, par. 20–23 Willingly associating with those who trample God's law puts out spiritual eyesight, even in church members, so piety, fear of God, faithfulness and loyalty lose power to keep them steadfast.Ms 6, 1892, par. 20–23 Worldly associations dazzle senses with tinsel and glamour, making Christ's humble unassuming life seem altogether unattractive and making loyal followers look commonplace, until truth in Christ Jesus becomes a rock of offense over which they stumble, and they depart from the faith to seducing spirits, regarding truth as error and error as truth.Ms 6, 1892, par. 20–23 When truth reaches the conscience, a person without spiritual understanding has no response to it; receiving it requires humility and a teachable heart.TSSW 71.2

The Spirit reveals the things of God to those who have implicit faith in Christ, impresses vital truths on which salvation depends, and makes the way of life plain, so Scripture's treasures become visible and precious when the Spirit shines light upon them.COL 113.1–2 Lack of interest in the Bible comes from lacking the Spirit; when the heart is brought into harmony with God's Word, new life and light arise, and the Word becomes God's voice to the soul.CE 80.1 Those who are spiritual can recognize signs of God's presence and work wherever they appear.3T 455.2 A person not spiritually guided cannot rightly discern spiritual things, temptation may overcome him, and he is in danger of losing the soul.TEPD 56.1–2

Spirituality marks those who become co-workers with Jesus Christ, gained by learning every day in His school and spending much time in earnest prayer, making a worker feel need of virtue and wisdom from Heaven; without it no one is fit to handle God's work in any branch, for human depravity will overcome him and he will lift up his soul unto vanity.STA 91.2 God makes spiritual things plain to people willing to receive instruction, understood through spiritual discernment not merely ordinary human judgment, and His servants must depend on Him to stand firm in spiritual conflict.Lt 135, 1903, par. 9–10 Those who have lost spiritual eyesight cannot reason correctly about spiritual things or exercise spiritual understanding.13MR 180.2