God does not propose to be called to account for his ways and works. It is for his glory to conceal his purposes now; but by and by they will be revealed in their true importance. But he has not concealed his great love, which lies at the foundation of all his dealings with his children. He has revealed his love in the gift of his Son, and in the many providences by which he manifests himself. He who lives near to Jesus may understand much of the mystery of godliness, and comprehend the love that administers merited reproof. Humanity, alienated from God, can only be reconciled to him by partaking spiritually of the flesh and blood of his dear Son. {2SP 288.1}

Gud vil ikke gøre menneskene til regnskab for sine veje og handlinger. Det er til hans ære, at han ofte i den nærværende tid skjuler sine hensigter; men engang vil de blive åbenbarede i deres sande betydning. Men Gud har ikke skjult den store kærlighed, som ligge til grund for al hans forsyns styrelse for hans børn. Han har åbenbaret sin kærlighed, idet han gav sin Søn, og ved mange lejligheder har han også åbenbaret sig selv. Den, som lever nær til Jesus, kan fatte meget af gudfrygtighedens hemmelighed og forstå, at det er kærlighed, som bringer velfortjent irettesættelse. Menneskene er fremmede for Gud og kan alene blive forpligtet med ham ved i troen at nyde hans kære søns kød og blod.