Hello! I am Jon Paulien and I’m glad you came to this page to check out my work. I am a New Testament scholar and Professor of Religion at Loma Linda University. On this website you will find a collection of my articles, commentary on Revelation, and links to my blog, videos, and other resources. Make sure you check the articles link above regularly to see the latest postings. In my hand above is an exact replica of p52, the earliest extant New Testament manuscript fragment, containing portions of John, chapter 18. Centered above my head is a replica of ancient Greek pottery. At either end above are two sets of books from, and about, my favorite spiritual author, Ellen G. White. I hope you enjoy the site.

Daily Devotional For November 15, 2026

View in the Daily Devotional Index

I fell down at (the angel’s) feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you don’t! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Rev 19:10.

           The early decades of the Seventh-day Adventist Church were marked by the presence of a living prophet. Early Adventists believed that the visions and testimonies of Ellen G. White were derived from a direct connection with God. From 1844-1915 her books, articles, sermons, and private letters provided a constant stream of insight into how God viewed the developing movement. Living, everyday questions were answered. Institutions were located and built on the basis of White’s recommendations. The various results of Adventist Bible study were at times confirmed and at other times denied.
           The presence of a living prophet was challenging, but it also provided great security. Through interaction with the prophet, Adventist leaders could have a strong sense of God’s direct guidance in the many difficulties the fledgling movement faced. Theological and political issues could be solved with reference to the prophet’s voice. For those fully committed to Ellen White’s authority, there was a sense of certainty that few obtain in this life.
           But in 1915 Ellen White died, and the living voice was stilled. No longer could the problems of the moment be addressed with direct and specific guidance from God. While her voluminous writings could be consulted, the applicability of those writings to specific issues was now easily disputed. A church accustomed to the living voice of God now had to struggle with the writings of a dead prophet, a reality most Christians have to live with.
           By 1919 the issue of what to do with a dead prophet was a serious issue for the young movement. So a Bible and History Teacher’s Council was convened. From July 30 through August 1, 1919,¹ all seemed to agree that much care and common sense were needed to interpret her writings correctly. But in the aftermath of the Council, a couple of those present began to spread the word that key Adventist leaders had abandoned true faith in the prophet. The death of a prophet can leave believers with more questions than answers.
           How do you draw living lessons from the writings of a dead prophet? To rightly handle the writings of a dead prophet like John, you have take seriously the time, place, and the circumstances in which the document was produced. The writings of dead prophets are worthy of our time and our careful attention.

           Lord, thank You for giving me a desire to know Your will and Your ways. I choose to invest serious time in Your Word this week.

¹ In my summary of the Council discussions I am particularly indebted to the transcripts and introduction found in Spectrum, vol. 10, no. 1 (1979), pages 23-57.