We should know for ourselves what constitutes Christianity, what is truth, what is the faith that we have received, what are the Bible rules—the rules given us from the highest authority. There are many who believe, without a reason on which to base their faith, without sufficient evidence as to the truth of the matter. If an idea is presented that harmonizes with their own preconceived opinions, they are all ready to accept it. They do not reason from cause to effect. Their faith has no genuine foundation, and in the time of trial they will find that they have built upon the sand.—Lt 4, 1889. {2MCP 535.3}

Vi bør selv være klar over hvad kristendom indbefatter, hvad sandhed er, hvad er den tro som vi har taget imod, hvad er bibelregler – regler vi har fået fra den højeste autoritet. Der er mange som tror, uden at have en grund for deres tro, uden (536) tilstrækkelig bevis for sandhedens sag. Hvis de præsenteres for en tanke der harmoniserer med deres egne forudfattede meninger, er de parat til at acceptere den. De ræsonnerer ikke fra årsag til virkning. Deres tro har intet virkeligt fundament, og på trængslens tidspunkt vil de finde ud af at de har bygget på sand.—Brev 4, 1889.