Ellen White Collection
- EGW Letters and Manuscripts
- EGW Topical Index
- EGW Letters Received
- W. C. White Letters
- EGW Bibliography
- EGW Personal Libraries
- EGW Online Resources
Heritage Services
Unusual Statements by EGW
Among the 100,000 pages of Ellen G. White's writings, some have pointed to several statements that are difficult to understand. A few of these statements are perplexing only because they have been lifted from their immediate contexts. Other statements pose problems for those who believe God's messengers are infallible, their predictions unalterable, and that their words and expressions are communicated verbatim by the Holy Spirit. Seventh-day Adventists believe that such views are incompatible with what is observed in Scripture. They are certainly counter to what Ellen White claimed for either herself or her writings. One may also find statements that seem to defy a ready explanation or lack current scientific confirmation. Regarding such, we are reminded of the following statement concerning supposed difficulties in the Scriptures:
"While God has given ample evidence for faith, He will never remove all excuse for unbelief. All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them. And those who refuse to accept and obey God's Word until every objection has been removed, and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt, will never come to the light" (The Great Controversy, p. 527).
The statements referenced below link to corresponding commentary. See also a compilation of statements mistakenly attributed to Ellen White. For a better understanding of Ellen White's writings see principles for interpretation. For other questions on Ellen White's life, ministry and teachings see the frequently asked questions.
Statements Taken Out of Context
- "Those who accept the Saviour, however sincere their conversion, should never be taught to say or to feel that they are saved."
- "I do not claim to be a prophetess."
Unusual Statements Regarding Scientific Issues
- Amalgamation of man and beast
- Astronomical statements
- Death from cosmetics
- Physical and spiritual dangers of masturbation or "self-abuse"
- Volcanology
- Wasp Waists Inherited
- Wigs and Insanity
Unfulfilled Predictions
- England to Declare War During the U.S. Civil War
- Jerusalem Never to Be Rebuilt
- Some in 1856 Alive When Jesus Returns

