10:52 Corinthians 10:5

Though the life is lived in the flesh, the warfare is not fought with fleshly force but with power from God that tears down strongholds of pride, false reasoning, prejudice and everything that lifts itself against the knowledge of God.Ms 188, 1897, par. 3+4 To cast them down is to overthrow selfish imaginings and proud resistance, and to bring every thought into willing captivity to Christ, a surrender won by love and never by compulsion.Ms 42, 1901, par. 17–19+4 The weapons for this conquest are the sanctifying truths of the Bible treasured in the heart and obeyed in the life, the written Word wielded as the sword of the Spirit.Lt 165, 1904, par. 14+2 No one can govern the mind by personal strength alone, but when the will is steadfastly kept on the Lord's side God subdues purposes, desires and emotions, and the Holy Spirit renews motives and affections into harmony with Christ.ST Jul 7, 1909+3 That inward victory is kept by beholding Christ until He is enthroned in the heart, and by daily watchfulness that restrains every imagination, suspicion and impulse so that thoughts, words and acts accord with God's principles.3T 82.2+4

The verse stands in Paul's defense of his ministry amid criticism of his humble manner and his authority to preach, describing the difficulties he faced.RH Mar 6, 1900 The apostles' work included both tearing down false foundations and building up the church, bringing down through God's power strongholds formed by human bigotry, prejudice, and violence that opposed the truth and obstructed God's work.8RED 79.1–3 Bringing people to Christ is a spiritual conflict against Satan in which strong, well-timed appeals and clearly presented evidence can help people break free from his hold and choose the Lord's side.1T 645.2–647.2 The strongholds to be cast down are the forts of those in error and moral darkness, to be taken by practical house-to-house work, going into the very houses of interested people to visit, converse, and pray with families, going out into the highways and hedges and compelling them to come in.7MR 39.1–3 Taking them means fastening hold upon infinite power and also strongly upon fellow men and drawing them up to the platform of eternal truth, out-generaling the enemy at every point by moving surely as though the truth was a reality, with holy angels attending into those forts.7MR 39.1–3 This requires being spiritualized, energized, and sanctified so God can work for, by, and through workers to His name's glory, without dividing interest with writing and books when souls need light and knowledge at the right time.7MR 39.1–3 God also gives some a special work of bearing testimonies of warning and reproof that break down the strongholds of iniquity, arouse conviction in the human heart, and bring men to repentance, coming as the Lord's hammer to break down the workings of Satan and turn men to the living God, standing in defense of the truth and battling desperately against an evil work, with Christ's consolation mingled in when repentance reveals what sin really is.Ms 116, 1898, par. 22

Though believers walk in the flesh, their warfare is not after the flesh and its weapons are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds.1MR 364.3–365.2+2 This warfare pulls down strongholds by casting down ideas, selfish imaginations, and every proud thing that opposes knowing God, and bringing every thought under Christ's authority.Ms 188, 1897, par. 3+2 Preaching of the Word must do more than give information: it must touch hearts and direct the will toward heaven.Ms 188, 1897, par. 3 This means daily death to self and genuine conversion of heart, mind, soul, and body, with all the intensity of the entire being put into the work, through enlarged faith that works by love and purifies the soul under the working of the Holy Spirit, so believers will stand amid the perils of the last days.1MR 364.3–365.2+1 This mental and spiritual discipline supports control of appetite and passions and a life presented to God as holy and acceptable.Ms 49, 1897, par. 16–17 Applied to believers in America, it calls them to deny inclination and fancies that absorb means, to stop spending on self-gratification, and to give that means to advance God's work, erect humble houses of worship for poor new believers, and open new fields in regions beyond, and it rests with them to solve the perplexing problem of obtaining means in this obedience.Ms 68, 1894, par. 15–17 The pulling down of the enemy's strongholds is done not by human might or power but by God's Spirit making the ordinary means of grace effective, with the spirit of prayer made mighty through faith to accomplish the overthrow and establish God's kingdom in the earth.Ms 117a, 1903, par. 18

Casting down imaginations and every high thing means overthrowing what exalts itself against the knowledge of God, making the proud humble, the perverse meek and contrite, and the disobedient obedient.Ms 42, 1901, par. 17–19 The strongholds to be demolished are selfish reasonings and proud desires that oppose the knowledge of God, such as spending money on fancies and self-gratification like multiplying pictures and buying bicycles that could be done without.SPBC 135.2 Casting them down and making every thought obedient to Christ means binding about supposed wants, denying inclination, practicing self-denial, and showing liberality to the needy cause by giving the means needed to open new fields in regions beyond and to erect humble houses of worship for poor new believers whose souls are precious.SPBC 135.2 The teachings of Scripture overthrow false reasonings and proud resistance to the knowledge of God and make every thought obedient to Christ, and this work is done in the true Bible reader when the gospel is worked into everyday experience.Lt 15, 1888, par. 14 The mind must be in a state to appreciate the divine authority of the gospel claims, girded, trained and disciplined to self-control and obedience, because reading the Bible with a spirit out of harmony with its sacred principles will not impart its spirit.Lt 15, 1888, par. 14 Those who want to learn of Christ must empty the soul of all foul imaginings to make room to enthrone Christ, taking the humble place of children at His feet to learn meekness and lowliness from Him, for Satan has great power to drag the soul down to a low level.Lt 15, 1888, par. 14 There is to be a casting down of the high imaginations of men, for men will never reach the spiritual or intellectual heights God wishes them to attain until they become partakers of the divine nature, since intellectual power without spiritual power is of no use.Ms 103, 1893, par. 25–26 God turns wise men backward and makes their knowledge foolish, confirms the word of His servant, and makes the wrath of men to praise Him, and man in all his moral degradation may be made pure and unselfish and bear in life the divine credentials.Ms 103, 1893, par. 25–26 Truth can overcome resistance, bring the stubborn heart to conversion, and bring the perverse will into subjection to Christ.RH Jul 14, 1903 God's people must actively oppose Satan's falsehoods and pull down his strongholds, making clear the principles at stake in the great controversy so people can choose obedience to God or follow the Son of God.7T 141.2–142.1

Bringing every thought into captivity to Christ is accomplished by mercy that wins the soul to surrender, never by force or compulsion.Ms 99, 1894, par. 5–6 Christ is the light of the world shining in darkness that the darkness did not comprehend, and though rejected as by the Samaritans He uses no force, affliction, or torture to bring minds into subjection.Ms 99, 1894, par. 5–6 The captivity of thought is a surrender to the Holy Spirit who leads into all truth, the Spirit taking the words of Christ and bringing them with power into the obedient heart to transform it into the image of Christ, leading men in tender love and compassion to faith and obedience but never compelling them to serve God.Ms 99, 1894, par. 5–6 Compulsion by falsehood, threats, persecution, imprisonment, and torture is the opposite work of Satan and his workers, as shown when Cain used those arguments against Abel.Ms 99, 1894, par. 5–6 Truth as it is in Jesus, urged in its practical character in love and made impressive by the Holy Spirit, subdues even the most powerful opponents and brings them into captivity to Jesus Christ.Ms 44, 1894, par. 3–4 Christ takes men who possess the strongest spirit of opposition, and if they submit to Him, He connects them with Himself in His work, so that truth presented in Christ's manner wins a decided victory and holds souls.Ms 44, 1894, par. 3–4 There are two captivities: to Christ unto light and obedience, and to the prince of darkness unto bondage.ST Jan 25, 1899+1 A person brought into captivity to Christ belongs to God's people, responding to Christ's drawing, practicing right things, and living willing and obedient, with the heart brought into the light of the Saviour's love.ST Jan 25, 1899+1 Those brought into captivity to Christ are aglow with His love, praise Him for calling them out of darkness into light, use their power of speech to declare His abundant grace, enlist to advance God's glory, and become channels of light.ST Sep 22, 1898

The warfare is not fought with carnal weapons but with weapons mighty through God to pull down strongholds, cast down imaginations and every high thing exalting itself against the knowledge of God, and bring every thought into captivity to obedience to Christ.Lt 165, 1904, par. 14+2 That power comes as the word of Christ dwells richly within in all wisdom, for the sword of the Spirit is the word of God, quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword.Lt 165, 1904, par. 14+1 The grand sanctifying truths of the Bible are that armory, powerful through God to break down entrenched strongholds of error and establish truth when they are made meat and drink, treasured in heart and mind, honored by confessing Christ, and obeyed in life, for without this they bring no profit.Ms 104, 1901, par. 17–18+2 The written word, It is written, is the weapon in this work, and as Scripture teaches truth from passage to passage it directs the mind and brings its thoughts under Christ's authority and obedience when made part of daily life so that Christ becomes a constant companion.RH Aug 28, 1900+2

The weapons are given for aggressive work as laborers together with God, who provides all facilities and spiritual weapons necessary, to build up and present the truth so its contrast with error exposes error.20MR 136.3–4+2 They are not to attack other denominations in ways that stir hostility and close hearts, nor to be hurled against the militant church in denouncing, accusing and condemning, for Satan works on that line.20MR 136.3–4+1 They are never Satanic weapons of strong personal feeling, prejudice, thunderbolts hurled at those in error, storming ears, retaliation, giving loose rein to passion and bitter enmity, coming down to the level of unreasonable and wicked men, exalting self above others, assaulting prejudices, stilling voices by denunciations, or weaving unchristlike attributes into the work.2MR 195.1–196.1+2 They are Bible principles, Christlike simplicity, patience, forbearance, love for God and for souls, meekness, longsuffering, gentleness, kindness and affection, convincing not condemning, keeping Jesus uplifted and beholding the Lamb of God who takes away sin, exalting the law of God as binding believers with Jesus Christ and all who love Him and keep His commandments, and demonstrating faith as a power of which Christ is the Author through the Bible which makes wise unto salvation.2MR 195.1–196.1+2 The work is to strive to convince fellow men of error and bring them into harmony with right sentiments by presenting a crucified and risen Saviour in the simplest way, with tones expressing the love of God and words dipped in the oil of grace flowing forth in love, leading but never driving, seeking the erring and unconverted among God's people with patience and perseverance to win and restore them rather than tear down, discourage and destroy.1MR 356.2–357.3+1 Sound healthy religion has nothing to fear from contact with error, and the Captain of salvation leads His army of workers on to success and victory when faith is consistent, while believers keep godly jealousy over themselves lest Satan steal the heart from God and lead them unconsciously to change leaders and do work in Satan's lines.1MR 356.2–357.3+1

God gives the true minister power to tear down Satan's strongholds and bring people to obey Christ, for man has no power to transform man but acts only as God's agent while Jesus does the work.RH Apr 15, 1902+2 The power comes when the minister is humbled and taught by Christ, has been with God and drawn near in effectual fervent prayer, his lips are touched as with a live coal from off the altar, his heart is sanctified through the truth, the Holy Spirit has fallen upon him and his soul has felt the vital heavenly fire.RH Apr 15, 1902+2 Then with Christ in entire control of heart and affections, the Spirit of Christ diffused through entrusted human powers sheds light into darkened understanding, assails strongholds of error, and brings into captivity to Christ the heart in sin's service so transgressors are converted.GW92 53.2+1 With power to compare spiritual things with spiritual and with words as living realities to himself and others, he presents God's love and lifts up Jesus as the sinner's only hope until hearts are broken and many inquire what they must do to be saved.Lt 348a, 1907, par. 8+2 That consciousness of having truths with power through God to overthrow darkness and give arguments opponents cannot meet brings danger of indolence and pride, of neglecting personal piety, purity of heart, entire consecration, and living in obedience to Christ every day and hour, for spiritual pride eats out the vitals of religion and leaves those feeling rich and increased with goods actually wretched, poor, miserable, blind and naked.GW92 53.2 To preserve humility there is need to remember how one looks before a holy God who reads every secret of the soul and how one would look before fellow men if fully known, and to confess faults as the appointed way to subdue pride.GW92 53.2

Every thought, imagination and suspicion is to be cast down, restrained and brought into captivity to obedience to Christ rather than allowed to run unchecked.3T 82.2+4 Unrestrained vain thoughts lead to sinful actions, while governing and sanctifying the thoughts makes conduct easier to govern and supports consecration to God.3T 82.2+1 Wrong thoughts lead to wrong feelings, and thoughts and feelings together form moral character, while evil thoughts destroy the soul and right control of thoughts prepares the mind to labor harmoniously for the Master.GW 126.3+2 Discipline of spirit with cleanness of heart and thought is therefore required, keeping thoughts centered on Christ so grace can shape the life and give clear spiritual discernment.GW 126.3+1 Suspicion, doubt and repining take the mind from allegiance to God and expose it to evil influence, while self-control keeps mind and feelings under reason and religion.Ms 47, 1892, par. 7–8+1

As free moral agents all must make thoughts run in the right channel and not permit them to run upon forbidden subjects, for if left uncontrolled Satan is permitted to control them and work ruin.ApM 29.3+2 If the fountain is pure the streams issuing from it will be pure, for sweet water and bitter cannot proceed from the same fountain, and impure thinking cannot produce pure living.Lt 29, 1872, par. 35–38+2 Words and actions are the fruit testifying of the inner life, showing whether a person moves from principle or from impulse.Lt 29, 1872, par. 35–38+2 For a minister this requires that lower passions not take the lead and that the mind not take a low turn toward fascination and censurable conversation instead of truth.Lt 29, 1872, par. 35–38 Failure here is sickness and disease of mind and imagination, dwelling on self and neglected duties, while healing comes by purifying the fountain of mind and heart so the streams of thought become pure.Lt 123, 1904, par. 46–49+1

In the last days there is a special work of Satan to take possession of the minds of youth, corrupt thoughts and inflame passions unto moral pollution and impure actions, so that all the noble faculties become debased for his purposes.ApM 29.3+1 The first work for those who would reform is to purify the imagination, restraining the mind when led in a vicious direction and bringing it back when diverted to low and sensual things.ApM 29.3+2 Meditation is to dwell only upon pure and elevated subjects, making Jesus and heaven and eternal things the subjects of thought.ApM 29.3+2 When tempted to yield to corrupt imagination, flight is to be made to the throne of grace in prayer for strength from heaven, and determined effort to retain only pure thoughts is met by God attracting the mind as a magnet, purifying thoughts, disciplining the mind and cleansing from every secret sin.ApM 29.3+1 Responsibility for thoughts remains even when lack of opportunity prevents action, for indulging impure imaginings is guilt in a degree, and daydreaming on corrupt subjects and romantic fantasies becomes a dangerous habit unfitting for service.2T 251.1+1

Feeding the mind on vile trash dwarfs and deforms it, while wholesome food gives strength and vigor, so desires must be controlled and the mind trained into subjection.FE 94.1–2 Crucifying the flesh is done not by inflicting pain on the body but by expelling corrupt thought and putting to death temptation to sin.Ms 1, 1888, par. 9–10 The lower corrupt nature has its seat in the body and works through it but cannot of itself act contrary to the will of God, so crucifying it means subjecting all animal propensities to the higher powers of the soul, with the love of God reigning supreme and Christ occupying an undivided throne.Ms 1, 1888, par. 9–10 The body is to be regarded as His purchased possession kept in as wholesome and pure and holy condition as possible, with members made instruments of righteousness, every tendency to viciousness suppressed, every unclean habit put away, and purity of thought and Christlike character made the present study.Ms 1, 1888, par. 9–10+1 This requires controlling every lust, separating from baseness and coarseness, overcoming pride of life, sacrificing every idol, keeping the eye single to God's glory, and letting love to God rule stronger than desire for sensual gratification.Lt 36, 1888, par. 14+1

In married life this captivity means practicing self-denial, controlling evil passions, bringing the body under, keeping vows in purity, not taking unfair advantage of marital privileges nor living only to please self and indulge passion, so that love is sanctified rather than lessened and joy is found in Christ.Ms 109, 1894, par. 7–8 Obedience also reaches little things, strictly guarding them and bringing them to Jesus as well as larger things, because little things enter the habitual train of thought and shape character.Lt 18, 1894, par. 9–11 A nature allowed its own will in little things will be most difficult to restrain in larger things when great trials come.Lt 18, 1894, par. 9–11 Thoughts and meditations under Christ's control therefore refuse suspicion, evil surmising, jealousy, imagining evil of brethren, unholy ambition, envy, retaliation and harsh speech, refusing to think evil, to answer injustice with reviling, or to plant distracting thoughts in the young.Lt 9, 1892, par. 39–47+4 Such a mind made obedient is cheerful, courageous, clear and sound, resting in love and peace and drawing close to brethren in unity.Lt 86a, 1893, par. 10–13+1

In trial and temptation every thought is to be brought under Christ's control by dismissing the enemy's suggestions, for resisting them leads to victories and growth in grace and strength.Lt 124, 1897, par. 5–6+1 Christianity does not consist in good resolutions or fitful experience but requires steady persevering cultivation of correct habits and correct thoughts, wrestling with God in prayer so that when the enemy comes like a flood the Spirit lifts a standard against him.Ms 163, 1899, par. 1–4+1 A pure heart occupied with glorifying God does not introduce or cherish unworthy images, and earnest prayer seeks God's guidance of the mind throughout each day.Lt 117, 1897, par. 23–25+1 Christ can give complete control over besetting evils, discouragement, and shaping the course by supposition and imagining too much, by making Him helper and sufficiency and walking with God in private confession until lifted into a pure atmosphere.Lt 31, 1893, par. 11–14 When resistance becomes habit sustained with prayer, temptation has less power to overcome the soul.Lt 124, 1897, par. 5–6+1

God brings purposes, desires, inclinations and emotions into submission to His will, casting down thoughts and claims opposed to the knowledge of God and bringing every thought under Christ's authority.ST Jul 7, 1909+3 This requires the human will to be steadfastly kept on the Lord's side, voluntarily joined with God, with willingness to be made willing and consent to His work.ST Jul 7, 1909+3 A person cannot bring inclinations under God's will by own power, but God accomplishes the work upon surrender while the person earnestly resists temptation with firm resolve and effort.ST Jul 7, 1909+3 Success depends on divine power working through the faculties and powers He has given, helping and strengthening the person and shaping the mind and its inner responses into a vessel for honor.AA 482.1–3+3

Will, affections, passions, physical powers, mental faculties and thoughts must be wholly sanctified and brought into subjection and captivity to the will of Christ.SA 12.2+4 Self resists this submission, for self-denial and the cross lie directly in the pathway of every follower, and the cross is that which crosses the natural affections and the will.2T 650.2–651.2+2 A person ruled by passions cannot follow Christ but remains serving evil, and without this change cannot enter God's kingdom.SA 12.2+1 If will, affections and thoughts are not subdued there is failure to carry out true religion and exemplify Christ's life, with no true desire to sacrifice ease and self-love and the carnal mind uncrucified to work Christ's works.2T 650.2–651.2+1 This belongs to honoring the Creator under baptismal vows by resolutely denying self, unconditionally surrendering heart and affections to God, and crucifying affections and lusts to glorify Him and attain His moral likeness, for baptism or church membership alone cannot change the heart.3T 45.1+1 Obedient thoughts so molded by the Spirit give power to shun temptation and to claim strength from God when surrounding temptations cannot be controlled.TCBMP 57.1–58.1

Emptying self and consenting for every thought to be brought into captivity to Christ's obedience is the only way to receive heaven's light, discern God's character, and accept Christ by faith.ST Aug 25, 1909+4 Those who surrender their thoughts in this way are given the Holy Spirit without measure.ST Aug 25, 1909+4 All who yield thus share in Christ's glory and are made complete in Him in whom dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.GW 56.4–57.1+1

Through Christ a person can gain self-control and bring thoughts and words under God's will, though in own strength none can rule the spirit.MYP 136.1+2 Christ's strength makes emotions come under reason and under the control of Jesus' will, disciplines the tongue, subdues the hasty temper, and fills the heart with patience and gentleness.MYP 136.1+1 This requires giving the will to God every day for Him to take possession of it, with growing faith and constant decision to believe God means what He says and to trust Jesus as source of all power to keep what is committed to Him.RH Oct 31, 1907+1 It is constant warfare against unseen foes seeking to weaken and discourage, fought by holding firmly to the One with all power, never giving up though often failing in patience and calmness, resolving still more firmly to be patient under every provocation and never taking eyes off the divine Example.RH Oct 31, 1907+1 Sanctification by grace makes the love of God a lasting inward principle that removes unwillingness to submit in all things and makes it a pleasure to live out the love the Spirit works within, until by constant effort and ceaseless watchfulness perfect self-control becomes habit, outbursts of passion and shameful words are cured, human will becomes one with God's will in harmonious action, and consistency in little things and business details prepares for consistency in larger things.MH 453.5–454.1+1

People cannot govern themselves or conform to God's will by personal strength alone, for self cannot govern itself and God alone can make and keep them loyal.18MR 365.1–2+3 Every thought as well as words, acts and every part of life must be brought under Christ's control and guidance, rejecting every temptation and idea that departs from pure and holy principles and giving God the whole person.18MR 365.1–2+2 This means placing oneself where the Spirit can guide and control, remaining firm in faith even under severe trials and Satan's deceptions.Ms 57, 1896, par. 22–24+2 Jesus Himself makes the soul's jarring conflicts cease as the mind is drawn to Him in perpetual communion and pervaded by His Spirit, becoming all in all, giving new life, infusing every hope with new life, and filling every purpose, plan and effort with power, which is relief by faith and trust for one struggling under great difficulties and suffering.Lt 58a, 1893, par. 1–9 This completed work of grace, in which even thoughts are captive to Christ, is beyond human understanding and does not originate in human works or finite feelings, for God works as potter with clay while a perverse will and selfish spirit can resist the grace He provides.Lt 16e, 1892, par. 43–44

The bringing of every thought into obedience to Christ is the work of the Holy Spirit as Christ's representative in restoring the image of God in the soul.CT 67.3–68.2+3 The Spirit proceeds from the Saviour to renew motives and affections, to enable holy deeds, and to sustain spiritual life through Scripture, prayer, and work.AA 284.1–2 As the faithful and true Witness and great Searcher of hearts acquainted with the character of all, the Spirit searches thoughts and purposes and by transforming influence brings even thoughts into harmony with the will of God.CT 67.3–68.2+1 In conversion and sanctification this inward renewal subdues every thought to Jesus Christ, corrects selfishness, molds and refines the character, and restores the person so that the changed, fruitful character becomes visible evidence of Christ dwelling within.PK 233.2+2 In the schools of the prophets this meant a living connection between heaven and the schools, expressed in joy and thanksgiving and songs of praise joined by angels, and the same Spirit comes to schools now but is often unrecognized, treated as a stranger or even an intruder, its efficiency and power not appreciated.CT 67.3–68.2+2 Every teacher must therefore know, recognize, and welcome this heavenly Guest, opening the heart to receive the indwelling Spirit in order to cooperate with it and become a laborer together with God for students, for when given free course it expels selfishness and effects wonderful transformations in each heart.CT 67.3–68.2+2

Truth sanctifies the soul and gives strength to bring every thought into obedience to Christ only when it is received in love into the inner sanctuary and worked into everyday experience.Lt 14, 1891, par. 27–29+2 God's Word works not on the understanding alone but on the heart and moral nature, bringing the will under Christ's authority, casting down opposing thoughts and pride, and writing the divine claims of the law in heart and mind unto a holy life and godly conversation.Lt 5, 1898, par. 13–15+1 When the Word is cherished in the heart and held fast in every circumstance, the whole life and all entrusted abilities come under Christ's rule with no part kept for self-directed use, which is true sanctification and devotion of the whole person to Him.Lt 128, 1897, par. 4–5+1 This requires constant battle in the good fight of faith, putting on Christ and openly, bravely, decidedly wearing the robe of His righteousness, exhibiting Christ instead of expecting too much from finite people, and continually looking to Jesus captivated by the perfection of His character so that His character is individually displayed.5MR 337.5 Mere theory, profession, or general faith is not enough, for without inward sanctification through truth the heart remains cold, habits remain unharmonized with God's expressed will, the wayward heart drags down the soul's faculties, the mind is molded by Satan, and purity of life, spiritual discernment of God's character, and acceptance of Christ by faith are lacking.Lt 5, 1898, par. 13–15+2

Beholding Christ enthrones Him in the heart and gives His thoughts controlling influence over the character.Ms 69, 1897, par. 58+2 Looking to Jesus and trusting in Him enables the casting down of thoughts and claims opposed to God, and giving oneself wholly to Him purifies, sanctifies, and ennobles the character by grace so that believers reflect His image and glory rather than their own, shining through His light and giving Him honor.Ms 69, 1897, par. 58 His character is the model and His mind is to rule the mind, in response to His self-giving sacrifice and love as part of living in harmony with God.Ms 4, 1891, par. 8–10 As the mind yields to Christ and beholds Him, He marks the submissive with His own character, changes them from glory to glory, and enables them to speak the words He gives.CEv 10.3+1 Realizing His abiding divine personal presence in the heart, and dwelling in faith on who He is, His character, and what He has done in the plan of redemption, shapes the whole character after His likeness and influences daily life.STMW9 76.1–2+1

Meekness brings thoughts into obedience to Jesus Christ by submitting mind and will to divine truth and bowing to every divine precept without doubting or murmuring.ST Sep 21, 1882+1 The meek receive divine truth with a heart softened and subdued and a mind made ready for God's word.ST Sep 21, 1882 Yielding the mind to the authority of the law of love places the person under God's control: the will becomes firm and strong to do right, the heart is cleansed from selfishness and filled with Christlike love, and powers once used for unrighteousness and sin are consecrated to the service of the God of love.ST Nov 19, 1896+1 Through yielding to sin the will had been placed under Satan's control as a helpless captive, but God sent His Son to break Satan's power, emancipate the will, and purchase will, affections, mind, and soul by giving all heaven in Christ.Ms 21, 1900, par. 9–12 Submission thus brings heart, will, and mind into unity with Him in living connection, so that self no longer rules, Christ lives in the believer, His character is reproduced producing the fruits of the Spirit, and the believer lives His life of perfect obedience to God's law clothed with His righteousness imparted.COL 311.3–4+1

The soul is thus brought into willing captivity to the Saviour with the heart bowed to His gentleness.CT 198.4 Holiness is wholeness to God, the soul surrendered with will and even thoughts brought into subjection to the will of Christ, and where this occurs the love of Jesus fills the soul and flows out constantly in a clear, refreshing stream to gladden others.Ms 31, 1889, par. 31 Unity with Christ requires this surrender of self under His mind and will, yet it does not erase individual differences, for those abiding in Christ can remain diverse while united in Him.Lt 33, 1891, par. 6–10 The truly converted give powers of mind and body to God's service, cherish God's Word in the heart, and bring the whole person including every power and thought under Christ's authority in harmonious experience in which body and spirit belong to God.Ms 31, 1899, par. 1+1 This life comes through humility bearing fruit under a living sense of God's love, through the Spirit stirring the soul not in vain, through climbing step by step upward on the ladder of progress toward the bright beams of God's glory, never resting but constantly seeking Christ's wisdom and righteousness and pressing toward the prize of the high calling, becoming one with Christ so that each upward step prepares for still higher climbing.2MR 30.2–31.2

This inward victory does not come from human sufficiency, ability, or strength, but from the presence, agency, and gracious influence of the divine Spirit filling the heart.SLP 330.1+3 Paul's life demonstrated this subjection, and his life thereby gave convincing force to his preaching and conduct.SLP 330.1 For those who minister in sacred things as Christ's representatives and co-workers, thoughts thus controlled make them living examples of the mind and spirit of Christ, so that preaching carries the sanction of God's Spirit, touches hearts with tenderness, convicts sinners, and presents a near and willing Saviour giving present salvation.3T 31.2–3 Where the Spirit rules, self-will is broken and harsh, domineering traits are softened into kindness, meekness, and lowliness, so that work corresponds with professed truth.Lt 22, 1889, par. 8–13 This belongs to a life of humility and full surrender receiving correction, warning, and counsel as blessings, denying self, forsaking sin with undivided affections, refusing one's own way, pressing toward Christ's wisdom and righteousness, holding trust that He can keep from sinning, and advancing until becoming one with Christ to reveal Him.Lt 21, 1897, par. 24–26+1

In schools the heavenly Guest must be welcomed to bring every thought into harmony with God through living connection with heaven, for victory in the spiritual conflict means overcoming inward corruption and wrong practices, forsaking every idol, and bringing the human will into harmony with God's will, lest a person be overcome.CT 237.3+1 Bringing every thought under Christ means submitting every capability to God, contemplating the divine character, increasing in knowledge of Jesus, and becoming wholly given to what brings heavenly enlightenment and wisdom for uplifting the soul, in contrast to being used as an agent wise to do evil.CT 25.1 This is the work of conquerors in conflict with unseen agencies, requiring disciplining, training and educating the mind, discarding a lifetime of wrong training, overcoming hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil through conflict, supplying new motives, thoughts and actions as followers of Christ, bringing appetite and passion under control of the Holy Spirit, with no end to the warfare this side of eternity yet with constant battles and precious victories where triumph over self and sin is of inestimable value.CE 122.1–2 Teachers must first keep themselves under discipline to Jesus Christ by bringing even thoughts into captivity to Him, learning self-discipline through grace controlling heart and character to produce well-balanced minds and symmetrical characters able to deal with human minds, for those without this submission have much to unlearn and must learn entirely new lessons of Christian experience before they are fit to teach others.CT 192.1 In youth this takes place when the Word is made the food of mind and soul and the cross is made the science of all education, the center of all teaching and study, brought into daily practical experience so the Saviour becomes daily companion and friend.ST Mar 11, 1908 Because people are judged by thoughts and words, they must pray often and seek grace continually so irritability and desire for their own way do not resist God's work, training themselves according to God's order to build up rather than tear down.ST Jul 3, 1893

In home religion even thoughts must be brought into subjection to Christ by prayer, genuine faith, and patient untiring effort against every evil disposition.ST Nov 14, 1892 The law written in the heart brings mind and will into obedience to Christ, rooting out covetousness, envy, and love of the world, and leading to just, merciful and humble living that has power to convict others.3T 201.2 Unholy imaginings are to be banished and every thought held obedient to Him, with self-control maintained by relying on Christ's power and seeking God in prayer, so that with earnest prayer and living faith believers resist Satan and keep hearts pure.ST Apr 15, 1913 Thoughts must be brought under Christ's authority with pure hearts and sanctified thoughts, firmly resisting sin so it does not gain victory.Lt 157, 1897, par. 7–9 This requires daily watchfulness and earnest prayer, with Christ's renewing power enabling mind and will to turn from evil practices and associations to obey Him.STMMW 11.1 Such inward discipline enables cheerful obedience and helps resist self-centered impulses, with Christ's meekness and lowliness as the pattern to imitate in aiming for perfection and overcoming as He overcame.3T 336.1

Obedience is kept by daily watchfulness and earnest prayer, depending on renovating power rather than mere human strength to renounce evil practices and present the body as a living sacrifice.CH 536.2–537.1+1 Christ's religion purifies and ennobles thought by bringing it under His authority.8T 63.3 Even thoughts must be brought under His authority through daily refinement and sanctification by the Holy Spirit and crucifixion of unconsecrated self.ST Oct 24, 1900 Bringing thoughts into captivity to Jesus never degrades the receiver and never makes him coarse or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hard-hearted, but refines taste, sanctifies judgment, purifies and ennobles thoughts.CT 365.1+1 Unsanctified imaginings must be suppressed and every thought brought under Christ's authority, with desires, emotions and passions kept in calm subjection to reason and conscience as the Spirit shapes the mind, which is part of genuine grace and heart holiness.TBC1882b 5.1–6.1

The awakening power casts down human pride and every thought opposing the knowledge of God to bring thoughts into obedience to Christ, so worldly pleasure, position and power are seen as worthless while humility and self-sacrificing love alone are exalted as of worth.DA 134.8–135.1 Purity of life and character involves casting down ideas and pride against the knowledge of God and bringing every thought under Christ's authority, which surrender of mind is essential to discerning God's character spiritually and accepting Jesus by faith.ST Dec 25, 1893 The gracious influence brings every thought into obedience as part of purification accomplished by truth through grace, with Christ's love subduing carnal desires, and believers are to come to God daily with troubles and sins to receive rest under His yoke rather than seeking virtue in confession to others.5T 648.1 Self is to be subdued and every thought, word and act brought into obedience to Christ's will, with blind passions controlled and purged lest they dishonor God's name, gained by becoming better acquainted with Christ as the great Medical Missionary and inquiring at every crisis what He would do, keeping the way of the Lord in paths of truth and righteousness with united forward movement instead of stagnation.Ms 86, 1904, par. 14–15 Faculties once used for selfish or unrighteous purposes are brought into captivity to Jesus and made subject to God's will, as Christ through the Spirit awakens and employs mind and capabilities in God's service to restore the self to honor and glorify God.STMW10 29.2 The sufficiency for this transforming conversion and sanctification lies not in the preacher but in the mighty agency making truth effectual, uniting those in whom Christ dwells on one platform of truth, removing national prejudice, impetuous and rebellious traits and separate interests into harmony and unity with heaven and fitness for one family in heaven.Lt 23, 1885, par. 30–34

Subdued thoughts empower service, for bringing every thought into subjection to Christ means all powers are employed in saving souls, using entrusted talents to honor God in consecrated effort for conversion to meet the world's greatest need while thousands perish without knowledge of the truth, requiring no sleeping now but awaking and watching for souls as those who must give account.Lt 170, 1907, par. 7+1 As those called to witness search the Scriptures and expect light while appropriating and communicating it, exercising faith which works by love to bring others to the marriage supper, they become fitted for work and trial, purify souls by obeying truth, and learn to bear Christ's cross and endure shame for His sake.Lt 86, 1895, par. 6 Bringing a person's thoughts into obedience to God's will is a great victory, gained when careful wise ministry helps a patient give the soul to Christ.RH May 9, 1912 For the sick and suffering this surrender comes through being led to trust Christ as the Great Healer with the weary pain-racked body in faith for restoration, and when wise comforting care leads to that decision a great victory is gained.CH 418.1 When mind becomes intelligent and will is placed on the Lord's side through strict watchfulness and unwearied prayer, temperance in all things, and repentance and forgiveness through the atoning sacrifice, physical health wonderfully improves and accountable beings present bodies holy and acceptable as reasonable service, because virtue of character depends on right action of mind and body.CH 548.2–549.1

The conflict requires bringing thoughts and feelings under Christ's authority through full consecration, self-denial and crucifixion of self rather than bondage to resentment and misleading reports.3T 105.1–106.1 Thoughts are to be brought into obedience to God's will together with keeping the heart pure and living to His glory.GW92 463.3 When Christ is enshrined in the heart by the abiding softening, subduing, refining and sanctifying influence of the Spirit, even thoughts are brought into captivity and the mind is girded up, and without that influence He is not abiding within.Lt 5, 1880, par. 16–19 This requires most diligent work in purifying the soul from unkindness and bitterness, refusing to harbor suspicion, fault-finding, censure and dictatorial exaltation of self, refusing to let feeling rule, walking in all humility, and cherishing pitying love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness and forgetfulness of self, so influence is subduing and elevating rather than wounding.Lt 5, 1880, par. 16–19 The will must be disciplined into conformity to God's will and desires and affections into obedience to Christ by the Spirit upon the heart, producing ennobling qualities, discernment of sacred things and inward adorning valued above dress and show, without which self is undisciplined and inclination rules instead of duty.TCBMP 36.1–2+1 The very thoughts are to be brought into subjection to Christ by grace as an abiding principle exemplified in life, with self laid at the cross and Christ accepted as all in all, leaving no inclination to exalt self but revealing Him as chiefest among ten thousand, altogether lovely, with affections refined and ennobled, frivolity, cheap conversation, jesting and joking put away, and a mind kept in sunshine by speaking of God's goodness, love and power.GW92 233.1

The mind must be humble and receptive to the Word, with boastful self-confidence and self-sufficiency yielding before it.ST Jul 30, 1902 Bringing every thought into captivity refines taste, sanctifies judgment and purifies and ennobles thoughts, for God's ideal is higher than highest human thought can reach, given in His holy law as transcript of His character, and the standard given by the greatest Teacher is to be perfect even as the Father in heaven is perfect, perfect in the human sphere as God is in His.STE 210.1 The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness, a path of continual advancement with an object to reach and a standard including everything good and pure and noble and elevated, requiring continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection.STE 210.1 The Spirit transforms human thoughts into harmony with God's will, restoring the moral image and establishing living connection between earth and heaven.RH Sep 3, 1908 Thoughts and affections brought into obedience purify the heart so the whole being becomes a holy temple for indwelling.Ms 20, 1905, par. 14–15 This subjection comes through education in the things of God giving deep living experience, supplied not by sermonizing alone but by house-to-house work visiting homes and talking and praying with souls in earnestness and humility, so souls ready to die are imbued with Christ's Spirit and brought to knowledge of the truth.Ms 2, 1883, par. 3 A mind brought into captivity turns attention to heavenly things, shaping a life that reveals Christ in words, spirit and character.Lt 119, 1897, par. 1–2