Understanding Time-servers in the Writings of Ellen White

Time-servers are individuals who prioritize worldly interests, public opinion, and personal ease over a firm commitment to the truth and the requirements of GodGW92 82.2+2. These individuals lack a genuine work of grace in their hearts and are found wanting during times of crisis and emergencyLP 252.2.

Characteristics of Time-servers

• Lack of Force of Character: Time-servers do not cultivate the force of character or the keen perception that God requires of those who labor in His causeGW92 82.2.

• Wavering Loyalty: They are often found halting between two opinions, allowing themselves to be swayed by the positions and sentiments of the world rather than standing as a firm anchor for the truth2T 495.2+2.

• Preference for Worldly Interests: They allow earthly considerations to take precedence over eternal interests, failing to make their decisions for eternity2T 495.2+1.

• Neutrality in Crisis: A time-server attempts to remain neutral or maintain an appearance of neutrality during important crises that concern the salvation of the soul6LtMs, Ms 16, 1890, par. 63.

• Failure in Obedience: During coming emergencies, time-servers will be identified as those who have not been obedient to the law of God and lack a heroic purpose to hold fast to the faithLP 252.2.

The Consequences of Time-serving

• Loss of Reward: Those who are merely time-servers will not receive the rich reward that God has prepared for His faithful laborersGW92 82.2.

• Divine Displeasure: The Lord asks what He shall do with time-servers, as His wrath is kindled against those who allow perverting influences to affect His sacred workPH151 22.2.

• Separation from God: By following the opinions of men and the traditions of ancestors rather than the Spirit of God, time-servers separate themselves further from His favor2SP 194.4+1.

The Path to Faithfulness

Instead of being a time-server, you are called to confess your faith openly before others, for Jesus said, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” Matthew 10:32. You must be willing to sacrifice houses, lands, and earthly relationships for the sake of the gospel, knowing that eternal life is the reward for those who follow the Savior through trial and persecution2T 495.2+1. True strength of intellect and firmness of purpose are found through a life of prayer and temperance, as demonstrated by the example of DanielGW92 82.2. Narrow interpretations and burdensome traditions must be cast aside in favor of a pure faith and a determination to obey the law of GodLP 252.2+1.