Does Character Change at the Resurrection? Ellen White's View

Your character will not be changed at the resurrection; instead, you will come up from the grave with the same disposition and traits you manifested in your home and in society during this lifeLDE 295.1+2.

The Work of Transformation is Now

• No Transformation at His Coming: Jesus does not change the character when He returns; the essential work of transformation must be accomplished during our probationary time on earthLDE 295.1+1.

• A Symmetrical Character: We must repent of defects and overcome them through the grace of Christ now to form a symmetrical character fitted for heavenLDE 295.1+1.

• Daily Destiny: Our daily lives and the habits we cherish are currently determining our eternal destinyLDE 295.1+1.

• The Same Likeness: Those who go down into the grave stained and polluted with sin will rise in that same likeness, as there is no moral change in the resurrectionEA 205.3+1.

What Actually Changes at the Resurrection?

• The Physical Body: While the character remains the same, the physical body undergoes a glorious transformation from mortality to immortality 1 Corinthians 15:51-534LtMs, Lt 4, 1885, par. 6.

• Incorruption: This corruptible must put on incorruption, and the dead shall be raised with perfectly preserved identities but in perfect health and symmetryLDE 291.1+1.

• Glorified State: The righteous will be clothed with immortal youth and beauty, while the wicked will bear the traces of disease and deathGC88 662.1.

The Importance of the Home and Education

• Saints on Earth: To be a saint in the mansions above, one must first be a saint on earthLDE 295.1+1.

• Home Atmosphere: Parents create the atmosphere of the home, and the spirit they manifest is partaken of by their children, shaping characters that will live through eternal agesAH 16.2+2.

• Sacred Obligation: Developing a child's character in harmony with the Word of God is the most important work entrusted to human beings, involving eternal interestsCG 169.2+1.

Preparation for the First Resurrection

• Washing Robes: Only those who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb will be ready for the first resurrection Revelation 14:1-5CCh 358.3+1.

• Living Connection: A living connection with Christ is essential to develop a character that reflects His imageCCh 358.3+1.

• Serious Conviction: It is our duty and privilege to make ready for His appearing so that we may meet our Redeemer with joyCET 36.3+2.

The Lord is coming soon, and we must use every moment to seek for the peace of Christ and a fitness for the future life10MR 279.2+1. As the apostle Paul declared, we must be found blameless and without spot in that great day 1 Thessalonians 5:23ST February 9, 1891, par. 1+1.