In the time of the apostles, what was it that produced primitive godliness in the church?
“ ‘Jesus only’—in these words is contained the secret of the life and power that marked the history of the early church.” The Acts of the Apostles, 64.
“The life of the true believer reveals an indwelling Saviour. … The pure doctrines of the gospel never degrade the receiver, never make him coarse, or rough, or uncourteous. The gospel refines, ennobles, and elevates, sanctifying the judgment and influencing the whole life.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 67.
“Those who are learning at the feet of Jesus will surely exemplify by their deportment and conversation the character of Christ. Their spiritual life is sustained in the closet, by secret communion with God. Their experience is marked less with bustle and excitement, than with a subdued and reverent joy. Their love for Christ is a quiet, peaceful, yet all-controlling power. The light and love of an indwelling Saviour are revealed in every word and every act. Outward troubles cannot reach that life which we live by faith on the Son of God. Its richest, purest joys are felt when Christ is the theme of thought and conversation.” The Review and Herald, May 30, 1882.
“The love existing between believers is to be similar to the love existing between the Father and the Son. And this love in the soul is the evidence of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We are to love God supremely, and our neighbors as ourselves. It is in the lack of this love that thousands fail, and are found transgressors of the law. Supreme love for God will lead to love for our fellow-men, and the commandment of Christ is, ‘Love one another as I have loved you,’ ‘By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another’ [John 13:34, 35]. We cannot have this love unless Jesus is abiding in the heart by living faith. The very unity of disciples, the love manifested one for another, will be evidence to the world that God has sent His Son into the world as its Redeemer. This unity and love will exist wherever the Spirit of the Lord abides; heart will be bound to heart, and works of righteousness will appear in the daily life.” The Signs of the Times, April 13, 1891.
“Keep close to Jesus. By beholding Him you will become changed into His likeness. … You may have a theoretical knowledge of the truth, but this will not save you. You must know by experience how sinful sin is and how much you need Jesus as a personal Saviour.” Medical Ministry, 217.