Linda Kirk

Introduction

The Desire of Ages, p. 380

Unbelief was taking possession of their minds and hearts. Love of honor had blinded them. They knew that Jesus was hated by the Pharisees, and they were eager to see Him exalted as they thought He should be. To be united with a teacher who could work mighty miracles, and yet to be reviled as deceivers, was a trial they could ill endure. Were they always to be accounted followers of a false prophet?

On May 18, 2008, Linda Kirk wrote an open letter to Ernie Knoll giving numerous reasons why she no longer believed in the dreams. The reader can see that Linda Kirk's list of complaints seldom refers to the actual material published in Ernie’s dreams. Her primary focus of accusations is at the subjective and typically unverifiable he said, she said tabloid level. The obvious problem with these kinds of accusations is that it is impossible to sort fact from fiction without a video transcript of events being claimed by Linda. This should be a “red flag” to the reader. The writers of this chapter have chosen to go by Ernie’s words because they agree with God’s words. They believe that Linda’s words are not from God because they do not agree with God’s words and, therefore, do not make sense. We pray that the readers of this chapter will come to the same conclusion.

There is nothing new in the way Linda attempts to make Ernie look like a false prophet. Ellen White suffered the same setbacks.

Manuscript Releases, No. 926, p. 54

I have been sorely tried for the past year with my workers. Fannie Bolton is disconnected with me entirely. I would not think of employing her any longer. She has misrepresented me and hurt me terribly. Only in connection with my work has she hurt me. She has reported to others that she has the same as made over my articles, that she has put her whole soul into them, and I had the credit of the ability she had given to these writings. Well, this is the fifth time this breaking out has come. It is something similar to the outbreak of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, only she has not those to unite with her because they know me and my work.

In this chapter, we will address Linda’s allegations and show that they are without foundation.

Who is Linda Kirk?

Linda Kirk is a former secretary to Steve Wohlberg. She is married to Brian Kirk. Throughout this chapter, her statements originate from her open letter to Ernie regarding himself and his dreams.

A tiny bit of error?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“While there is much good counsel and truth in the dreams, which agrees with the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy, we cannot afford to overlook any insinuation, allusion, or hint of anything that would almost imperceptibly lead one off the narrow path. Satan doesn’t mind using much truth, if he can slip in a tiny bit of error, hopefully unnoticed.”

Fact
How can “any insinuation, allusion, or hint of anything” almost “imperceptibly lead one off the narrow path”? It either would or would not lead one off the narrow path. Regarding “a tiny bit of error” (in the published dreams), we are still waiting for someone to show what it is.

God says:

Counsels to Writers and Editors, pp. 43-44

The Test of New Light.--Our brethren should be willing to investigate in a candid way every point of controversy. If a brother is teaching error, those who are in responsible positions ought to know it; and if he is teaching truth, they ought to take their stand at his side. We should all know what is being taught among us; for if it is truth, we need it. We are all under obligation to God to know what He sends us. He has given directions by which we may test every doctrine,--"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." If the light presented meets this test, we are not to refuse to accept it because it does not agree with our ideas.

Conclusion
Linda, or anyone else, has not proved from the Bible or Spirit of Prophecy where that “tiny bit of error” is.

Pre-personating deceptions

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“We know that Satan is preparing for the ultimate deception. As Seventh-day Adventists, we are well aware that he will personate Christ. We are told just how this will happen. So, we’re on guard and prepared, we think. But what if he throws in some pre-personating deceptions? Are we prepared?”

Fact
No, Linda, of those in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the majority was not prepared, is not prepared and will not be prepared. Satan already crept in soon after our Church was organized. His first big deception came in with Dr. John Harvey Kellogg’s book, The Living Temple, which brought in the beginning (alpha) of apostasy into our Church. Then the change in the nature of Christ appeared in the 1950s, which led to the “new theology” and to the great apostasy (omega) today. That, in turn, has brought in “a most startling nature” of spiritualism, which is discussed further in chapter 1 of volume 2. (Reference Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 197).

The Church has become worse than ancient Israel. We have wandered for over 120 years.

Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 69

For forty years did unbelief, murmuring, and rebellion shut out ancient Israel from the land of Canaan. The same sins have delayed the entrance of modern Israel into the heavenly Canaan. In neither case were the promises of God at fault. It is the unbelief, the worldliness, unconsecration, and strife among the Lord's professed people that have kept us in this world of sin and sorrow so many years.

Because the Church is about the most defective it can be without becoming Babylon, God is reaching out with direct communication again--with love, rebuke, and a call to repentance. Several times this Church has begun a revival, but it has died away. God is calling for it again today. That is what the For My People Ministry is about—giving the Elijah message of revival and repentance. Satan has tried to stop it from the start. However, with God’s grace and power this ministry will not stop no matter how much the enemy hates it. It will continue on, and we believe that this time God’s militant and backslidden Church will become victorious. We praise God for the lives that continue to change because of this ministry. We also know that He is working with a small minority of Church members around the world who have the needed faith to finish the work, to share present truth, not a diluted message.

We pray that you, Linda, will join us again to help in the last great work in the last rapid moments!

Conclusion
Satan has already deceived the Church, and the majority was not ready, is not ready, and will not be ready.

Satan will deceive

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Think about this: Since, at the personating of Christ, Satan will ‘bear the appearance of Christ in every particular,’ ‘His voice is soft and subdued, yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents some of the same gracious, heavenly truths which the Saviour uttered; he heals the diseases of the people…’ (5T698, GC 624) We know he is going to do that. Shouldn’t we also know that, in his deceptions even now, he can appear to look and talk just like Jesus, heal people, and present the same messages Jesus presented through the Spirit of Prophecy?”

Fact
We agree that Satan will deceive. However, Linda fails to quote the next statement from The Great Controversy, p. 624 as follows.

God says:

The Great Controversy, p. 624

. . . and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed.

Fact
Ernie’s dreams advocate the seventh-day Sabbath, not Sunday. Linda fails to mention that those who reject the messages God sends through His prophets are also deceived. Yes, there are many ways Satan can deceive God’s people. However, many are so afraid of Satan’s deceptions that they focus more on his power than God’s power. In so doing, they reject the very messages God is sending.

God says:

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pp. 744-745

Brethren and sisters, it is by beholding that we become changed. By dwelling upon the love of God and our Saviour, by contemplating the perfection of the divine character and claiming the righteousness of Christ as ours by faith, we are to be transformed into the same image. Then let us not gather together all the unpleasant pictures--the iniquities and corruptions and disappointments, the evidences of Satan's power--to hang in the halls of our memory, to talk over and mourn over until our souls are filled with discouragement. A discouraged soul is a body of darkness, not only failing himself to receive the light of God but shutting it away from others. Satan loves to see the effect of the pictures of his triumphs, making human beings faithless and disheartened.

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 21, p. 80

The Lord looks upon impenitent cities. He sends to them by His messengers messages of reproof and of warning, but when His messengers are despised and abused and the messages rejected, when it is seen the patience and forbearance will not turn the hearts of men to Him, God will send judgments, as He has done upon San Francisco. No human power can stand against the mandates of Jehovah.

Last Day Events, p. 237

All will be tested and tried according to the light they have had. Those who turn from the truth to fables can look for no second probation. There will be no temporal millennium. If, after the Holy Spirit has brought conviction to their hearts, they resist the truth and use their influence to block the way so that others will not receive it, they will never be convinced. They did not seek for transformation of character in the probation given them, and Christ will not give them opportunity to pass over the ground again. The decision is a final one.--Letter 25, 1900.

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 15, p. 302

Those who were then deceived might since have come to the light. They might rejoice in the truth as it is in Jesus, were it not for the pride of their own rebellious hearts. They will be asked in the judgment, "Who required this at your hand, to rise up against the message and the messengers I sent to My people with light, with grace and power? Why have you lifted up your souls against God? Why did you block the way with your own perverse spirit? And afterward when evidence was piled upon evidence, why did you not humble your hearts before God, and repent of your rejection of the message of mercy He sent you?" The Lord has not inspired these brethren to resist the truth.

Summation
When Satan personates Christ, he will not only heal the sick and present some of the same gracious, heavenly truths which Jesus uttered, but at the same time he will claim he has changed the seventh-day Sabbath to Sunday. In attempting to convince her readers that Ernie’s dreams are not from God, Linda fails to realize that when people reject messages sent from God, that this too amounts to Satan deceiving them regardless of their being careful.

Conclusion
When we reject the truth sent to us through God’s prophets, we are attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan. Linda and Ernie’s other critics have done this. As we continue to assess Linda’s letter, we will find many accusations and no concrete evidence that the dreams are not from God.

Praying for a sign

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Of course he can! He can put thoughts, even good thoughts, into our minds, so it seems that our prayers are being answered. Oh, how very, very careful we must be to not fall for his deceptions, which are increasing in delusive attraction. His deceptions are going to be this powerful: ‘So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures.’ GC 539 That tells me that we cannot be too careful in testing every little thing when dealing with supernatural experiences.

“You will recall how I expressed several times how earnestly I was praying that the Lord would reveal to me the origin of the dreams. I prayed for several signs, such as things I would like the Lord to reveal to you in a dream. None of those signs were fulfilled. My concerns and questions were mounting even while I was becoming more personally involved with your ministry.”

Fact
Why will God answer a prayer for a sign when He has provided us ways in which we are to test a prophet? If we fail to appropriate these tests, God will not answer our desire for signs to prove He has sent a messenger.

God says:

Christ Object Lessons, p. 34

They rejected the antitype, and clung to their types and useless ceremonies. The Son of God had come, but they continued to ask for a sign. The message, "Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand," they answered by demands for a miracle. Matt. 3:2. The gospel of Christ was a stumbling block to them because they demanded signs instead of a Saviour.

The Desire of Ages, p. 386

They had seen Christ by the witness of the Holy Spirit, by the revelation of God to their souls. The living evidences of His power had been before them day after day, yet they asked for still another sign. Had this been given, they would have remained as unbelieving as before. If they were not convinced by what they had seen and heard, it was useless to show them more marvelous works. Unbelief will ever find excuse for doubt, and will reason away the most positive proof.

The Signs of the Times, January 17, 1878

Christ appeared in the disguise of humanity as a servant. But those who were partakers of his divine nature had eyes to perceive his divinity, the glory of which had upon special occasions, flashed through his human disguise, revealing indeed the Father. Sad indeed was it that one of his disciples who had been his companion, and witnessed his mighty works, had so failed to discern the character of his Saviour as to ask him for another sign. Jesus looked upon him with mild reproach.

Conclusion
Amazingly, Linda states that Satan can put thoughts into our minds so it appears that God is answering our prayers. Yet then she prays for several signs to prove that Ernie’s dreams are from God. Does the Bible teach us to pray for a sign so that we can identify a deceiver? No. We have to test everything using the Bible—“to the law and to the testimony.” (Isaiah 8:20) God does not bypass this simple process. As a result, we find from Linda’s own admission, that she has just set herself up for Satan’s deception by relying upon a test that is not biblical. It would not make any difference what the answer to her prayer was. Either way would not prove Ernie’s dreams are from God, as the following points show.

1. If her prayers seem to have answers, this would not prove anything, as Satan can answer our prayers (if he hears them or puts the thought into our mind if prayed silently), just as Linda suggested. However, this does not mean that God will not answer our silent prayers.
2. If God did not answer her prayer for a sign, then she is going to reject the dreams.

Because Linda did not follow Bible counsel, she sets herself up for Satan’s deception, because he could answer her prayer or he could decide not to answer.

Character examination or character assassination?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“While we all have our faults that need to be overcome by the blood of the Lamb, a person claiming to have a divine calling puts themselves under the microscope of character examination. The Bible tells us to test the fruits, so we may know the origin of inspiration. The fruits are the character of the messenger and the results of the message. Therefore, the following observations are not for the purpose of character assassination, but rather to follow the biblical injunction and the Spirit of Prophecy counsel that ‘By their testimony [the scriptures] every statement and every miracle must be tested.’--GC 593”

Fact
If Linda had quoted the first part of the paragraph, it would have shed more light as follows.

The Great Controversy (1911), p. 593

"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isaiah 8:20. The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God's work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures.

The quote refers to the Sunday law and Satan impersonating Christ in view of the whole world. It is not referring to prophets and that we must test everything they do and say and if it is not perfect, they are not of God. Since the beginning, no prophet has been perfect, since all have sinned and come short of God’s glory. Ernie has never claimed perfection. If Linda had known Christ’s disciples when He first called them, would she have rejected them as well? Please refer to chapter 2 of volume 2 for more details on this subject.

God says:

The Desire of Ages, p. 295

All the disciples had serious faults when Jesus called them to His service. Even John, who came into closest association with the meek and lowly One, was not himself naturally meek and yielding. He and his brother were called "the sons of thunder." While they were with Jesus, any slight shown to Him aroused their indignation and combativeness. Evil temper, revenge, the spirit of criticism, were all in the beloved disciple. He was proud, and ambitious to be first in the kingdom of God. But day by day, in contrast with his own violent spirit, he beheld the tenderness and forbearance of Jesus, and heard His lessons of humility and patience. He opened his heart to the divine influence, and became not only a hearer but a doer of the Saviour's words. Self was hid in Christ. He learned to wear the yoke of Christ and to bear His burden.

It is wrong to assume that a person who receives dreams or visions must be good enough to deserve them. God sends dreams and visions to teach, rebuke, encourage and to save us. He comes to seek and save those who are lost. There are many examples of this in the Bible. The stories of Nebuchadnezzar and Saul are two examples. Were they perfect when God gave them their dream or vision? Far from it! Did each of these men repent and change their lives? Yes! Did they become perfect right away? No. Each progresses differently just as no two people are alike. You can say the same of Ellen White. Her following statement shows that God educates even His messengers with the messages He gives.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 686

I would not dishonor my Maker by admitting that all this light, all the display of His mighty power in my work and experience, has been valueless, that it has not educated my judgment or better fitted me for His work.

The mistake that people make is to focus more on the fallible messenger rather than on the messages and the One who sent them. Test the messages with God’s words that have come before. If the messages are from God, they will pass the “fruits” test as follows.

From S. N. Haskell, quoted in F. C. Gilbert, Divine Predictions Fulfilled, pp. 29-33. {Ellen G. White in Europe, p. 244}

The testimony of every true prophet will agree with the testimony of the prophets of God before him, and it may be a further development of the same truth uttered by them. . . .

No one can add anything to the revelation we have in the Bible, but every prophet who is inspired will develop the subject, or the words spoken by prophets before him. . . .

In Ps. 138:2 are found these words, 'Thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.'

It is this principle alone that is a positive proof of inspiration, and any prophet who does not make other scriptures seem broader and more wonderful, does not bear the right kind of fruit.

Ernie’s dream says:

In the Heart of Jesus, September 12, 2009

Someone is now shouting, “We don’t need you. We have the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy.” The Herald tells me that they are not one of these who are they. I am told to look closely and notice that Becky and I use a white cloth to wipe our faces and the front of ourselves as well as our shoes. I now notice a window behind us that resembles a large magnifying glass. It is showing a Bible and a book called Spirit of Prophecy. (I know that the book represents all the writings of Ellen G. White.)

If the Holy Spirit guides a person, they will see that the dreams do the following:

• Agree with the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy
• Magnify the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy
• Further develop the same truth
• Make other scriptures seem broader and more wonderful
• Pass the “fruits” test

God says:

The Review and Herald, October 18, 1892

Whatever course the messenger may pursue, it will be objectionable to the opposers of truth; and they will make capital of every defect in the manners, customs, or character of its advocate, in order that they may prevent those from giving it their candid attention who would listen to the evidences. If there is anything through which the opposers can find occasion to falsify the character or misinterpret the action of him who presents the truth, they will take advantage of it to deter those who would accept and obey the truth from hearing or believing the message.

Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 150

"God, I thank thee," he says, "that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican." He judges his character, not by the holy character of God, but by the character of other men. His mind is turned away from God to humanity. This is the secret of his self-satisfaction.

Linda claims her letter is not for the purpose of character assassination, however, according to the following definitions, she is mistaken. Her letter contains many false or exaggerated statements designed to mislead the reader and tarnish Ernie’s reputation.

Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Character_assassination

Character assassination is an attempt to tarnish a person's reputation. It may involve exaggeration or manipulation of facts to present an untrue picture of the targeted person. It is a form of defamation and can be a form of ad hominem argument.

The Free Dictionary, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/character+assassination

An attempt to destroy someone's good reputation by slander or deliberate misrepresentation of his or her views: he described the accusation as `an appalling piece of character assassination.'

Conclusion
Linda takes a Spirit of Prophecy quote out of context. Then because Linda’s letter contains many false or exaggerated statements designed to mislead the reader and ruin Ernie’s reputation, we see it as character assassination. In doing this, Linda has made it more difficult for God’s messages to go to the world in an attempt to save people for the kingdom. Will the loss of souls be on her account? Alternatively, will she repent before it is too late?

Trying to appear humble

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“One thing that you mentioned several times is that your were not an “up front” type of person and you did not like to be in the spotlight. It seemed like you were trying to convince me that you were very humble. But in our conversation, I sensed something else. You told the story about your trip to Ohio in the restaurant how the group of people wanted you to sit in the middle of the table, and you went to the very corner. Ernie, a humble person doesn’t need to tell others how humble he is.”

Fact
What we perceive and sense is not necessarily the truth. In addition, we find it necessary here to rephrase the following quote from chapter 2: There is a psychological technique frequently used by attorneys to get a jury to make a decision favorable to their client when hard evidence does not support their viewpoint. First, they create a supposition, a speculation that they offer as possible truth. Then they create a spin on those suppositions and present those as appearing to be facts. Next, they present the logical conclusion based on those “facts.” Their purpose is to create enough doubt in the mind of the jury to accomplish their desired goal. Notice the frequent use of this technique as you read Linda’s letter. There is intention to create doubt about the messages and thus lead people to ignore the messages rather than studying them with Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy. An example is using the words “seemed” or “sensed.”

God says:

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 13, p. 313

Your words are not always wise. When you allow your own spirit to have sway, you lose the spirit of God, and then it is that the strange fire is offered. When your spirit is stirred, your imagination is deceptive, you arrive at false conclusions, and things appear to you in a perverted light. Your imagination is wrought upon by satanic agencies. Be careful not to trace a word of your suppositions, to be immortalized.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 234

Men's hearts are no softer today than when Christ was upon the earth. They will do all in their power to aid the great adversary in making it as hard as possible for the servants of Christ, just as the people did with Christ when He was upon the earth. They will scourge with the tongue of slander and falsehood. They will criticize, and turn against the servant of God the very efforts he is leading them to make. They will, with their evil surmisings, see fraud and dishonesty where all is right and where perfect integrity exists.

The Free Dictionary, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/surmise

To infer (something) without sufficiently conclusive evidence. To make a guess or conjecture. An idea or opinion based on insufficiently conclusive evidence.

God says:

The Adventist Home, pp. 440-441

We think with horror of the cannibal who feasts on the still warm and trembling flesh of his victim; but are the results of even this practice more terrible than are the agony and ruin caused by misrepresenting motive, blackening reputation, dissecting character? Let the children, and the youth as well, learn what God says about these things: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue.

The spirit of gossip and talebearing is one of Satan's special agencies to sow discord and strife, to separate friends, and to undermine the faith of many in the truthfulness of our positions.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 94

I saw that the very spirit of perjury, that would turn truth into falsehood, good into evil, and innocence into crime, is now active. Satan exults over the condition of God's professed people. While many are neglecting their own souls, they eagerly watch for an opportunity to criticize and condemn others. All have defects of character, and it is not hard to find something that jealousy can interpret to their injury. "Now," say these self-constituted judges, "we have facts. We will fasten upon them an accusation from which they can not clear themselves." They wait for a fitting opportunity and then produce their bundle of gossip and bring forth their tidbits.

Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, p. 122

Let not your ears listen to gossip from any one. If all would refuse to hear evil of their neighbor, the tale-bearer would soon seek other employment.

Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gossip

Gossip is idle talk or rumour, especially about the personal or private affairs of others. It forms one of the oldest and most common means of sharing (unproven) facts and views, but also has a reputation for the introduction of errors and other variations into the information transmitted. The term also carries implications that the news so transmitted (usually) has a personal or trivial nature, as opposed to normal conversation.

Summation
Evil surmising and gossip are tools of Satan. He knows that most people are willing to listen to false information instead of finding out the facts. This is the major reason why God’s prophets are not accepted. Luke 4:24 tells us “no prophet is accepted in his own country.”

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 315

In every advance move that God has led us to make, in every step gained by God's people, there have been ready tools of Satan among us, to stand back and suggest doubts and unbelief, and to throw obstacles in our way, to weaken our faith and courage. We have had to stand like warriors, ready to press and fight our way through the opposition raised. This has made our work tenfold harder than it otherwise would have been. We have had to stand as firm and unyielding as a rock. This firmness has been interpreted to be hardheartedness and willfulness. God never designed that we should swerve, first to the right and then to the left, to gratify the minds of unconsecrated brethren. He designed that our course should be straightforward. One and another have come to us, professing to have a great burden for us to have us go this way or that, contrary to the light that God has given us. What if we had followed these false lights and fanatical impressions? Surely our people should not then put confidence in us. We have had to set our faces as flints for the right and then press on to work and duty.

Conclusion
There is nothing new in the way Linda tries to discredit Ernie. Ellen White faced a similar situation when one of her secretaries, Fannie Bolton, turned against her and began spreading false information.

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, p. 273

Your words regarding me and my writings are false, and I must say that you know them to be false. Nevertheless, those unacquainted with you take your words as being the words of one who knows. Because you have been acquainted with me, and connected with me, you can state what you please, and you think that your tracks are so covered that they will never be discovered. But my writings have not stopped. They go out as I have written them. No words of my copyists are put in the place of my own words. This is a testimony that cannot be controverted. My articles speak for themselves. . . .

At that time, many people thought Fannie Bolton was sincere and they believed her lies. Linda accomplished the same destructive work.

Sons and Daughters of God, p. 309

That God who marks the fall of a sparrow, marks your deportment and your feelings; He marks your envy, your prejudice, your attempt to justify your action in the least matter of injustice. When you misconceive the words and acts of another, and your own feelings are stirred, so that you make incorrect statements, and it is known that you are at variance with your brother, you lead others, through their confidence in you, to regard him just as you do; and by the root of bitterness springing up, many are defiled. When it is evident that your feelings are incorrect, do you try just as diligently to remove the erroneous impressions as you did to make them?

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 188

You positively neglect to do the will of God. Says Christ: "Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." This is the condition imposed; this is the test that proves men's characters. Feelings are often deceiving, emotions are no sure safeguard; for they are variable and subject to external circumstances. Many are deluded by relying on sensational impressions. The test is: What are you doing for Christ? What sacrifices are you making? What victories are you gaining? A selfish spirit overcome, a temptation to neglect duty resisted, passion subdued, and willing, cheerful obedience rendered to the will of Christ are far greater evidences that you are a child of God than spasmodic piety and emotional religion.

The Desire of Ages, p. 385

The fact that He claimed to be the Sent of God, and yet refused to be Israel's king, was a mystery which they could not fathom. His refusal was misinterpreted. Many concluded that He dared not assert His claims because He Himself doubted as to the divine character of His mission. Thus they opened their hearts to unbelief, and the seed which Satan had sown bore fruit of its kind, in misunderstanding and defection.

Can a prophet ask questions in their dreams?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“There were several things that made me question the origin of the dreams right from the start. One of them was the fact that you could ask the “angel” anything you wanted in the dreams. It was not like you were really asleep, but that you could have a list of questions that you wanted to ask, and talk to him as if you were awake.”

Fact
Becky is periodically able to hear Ernie talking aloud in his dreams. As yet, she has not heard him asking a question, only making statements or partial statements. Perhaps the questions are just a part of the dreams and God already knows what Ernie would ask in those situations. How it all works we do not know for sure, but we do know that it happens. Just because we do not understand something, does not make it false. Linda, if God gave you the opportunity, would you not want to ask questions of Jesus or an angel in a dream? Ellen White and Bible prophets freely asked God questions in their dreams or visions, whether aloud or not, as seen in the following quotes.

God says:

Matthew 7:7

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

Daniel 7:16

I came near unto one of them that stood by, and asked him the truth of all this. So he told me, and made me know the interpretation of the things.

Broadside1, April 6, 1846

And as we were gazing at the glories of the place our eyes were attracted upwards to something that had the appearance of silver. I asked Jesus to let me see what was within there… And I saw a veil with a heavy fringe of silver and gold as a border on the bottom; it was very beautiful. I asked Jesus what was within the veil… As we were travelling along, we met a company who were also gazing at the glories of the place. I noticed red as a border on their garments; their crowns were brilliant; their robes were pure white. As we greeted them, I asked Jesus who they were? He said they were martyrs that had been slain for him.… And I saw the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit. We all reclined at the table. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land, go back to earth no more… I asked Jesus if his Father had a form like himself. He said he had, but I could not behold it, for said he if you should once behold the glory of his person you would cease to exist.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G, White, pp. 101-102

I asked my attending angel for an explanation of what I saw. He told me that I could see no more then, but he would shortly show me what those things that I then saw meant.

I asked my accompanying angel the meaning of what I heard, and what the four angels were about to do.

Early Writings, p. 88

Then he showed me the conductor, who appeared like a stately, fair person, whom all the passengers looked up to and reverenced. I was perplexed and asked my attending angel who it was. He said, “It is Satan...”

I asked the angel if there were none left. He bade me look in an opposite direction, and I saw a little company traveling a narrow pathway.

Ibid., p. 127

I asked the angel why there was no more faith and power in Israel.

Ibid., p. 176

I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans.

Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 4b, pp. 2-3

I asked the angel why simplicity had been shut out from the church, and pride and exaltation come in. I saw that this is the reason why we have almost been delivered into the hand of the enemy.

I asked the angel if the frown of God had been upon his people for commencing the Sabbath as they have. I was directed back to the first rise of the Sabbath.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 178

I asked the angel if that darkness was necessary. Said he: "Look ye!" I then saw the church begin to rise, and earnestly plead with God, and rays of light began to penetrate this darkness, and the cloud was removed.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, p. 253

ALTHOUGH MRS. WHITE OFTEN SPOKE WHILE IN VISION, YET NO BREATH CAME FROM HER LIPS.

Ellen G. White: The Early Years, Vol. 1, p. 150

At times Ellen White, while in vision, spoke in short exclamations of what she was viewing. These gave clues to her companions as to the scenes passing before her. It was so in this case, and Joseph Bates, with pencil and paper in hand, noted the words as she spoke. Here are significant portions of Bates's notes:

Where did the light break out? ----- Let thine angel teach us
where the light broke out! ----- It commenced from a little, when
Thou didst give one light after another. ----- The testimony and
commandments are linked together; they cannot be separated.
----- That comes first, the ten commandments by God. . . .

Conclusion
Linda failed to thoroughly study God’s Word to find the answer. Again, she did not follow God’s counsel on how to test a prophet. Nowhere in the Bible or the Spirit of Prophecy do we find that a prophet will not be able to ask questions in their dreams or visions.

Asking irrelevant questions?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“The questions that you chose to ask, I remember thinking at the time, were not questions that concerned the people of God as a whole, but more personal questions. I remember you telling me that one of the questions that you asked the angel was that if you should receive tithe, and the angel said yes. That bothered me greatly at the time. Another was about the Bible code. I don’t think any serious Bible student would have even bothered with this question.”

Fact
Is not tithe a very important subject, especially for someone who God called? It is not only a personal matter for Ernie but for others who are in a self-supporting ministry. Please see chapter 1 for more details on the tithe issue.

Regarding the Bible code question, Ernie had been concerned about that subject before his dream that mentioned it, because some Seventh-day Adventists he knew of actually believed in the Bible code. Therefore, Linda, what one thinks is irrelevant may be very relevant to another.

God says:

In Heavenly Places, p. 150

We should take this lesson to ourselves. Again the destroying angel is to pass through the land. There is to be a mark placed upon God's people, and that mark is the keeping of His holy Sabbath. We are not to follow our own will and judgment and flatter ourselves that God will come to our terms. . . . That which looks unimportant to you may be of the highest consequence in God's special plans for the preservation of your life or the salvation of your soul. God tests our faith by giving us some part to act in connection with His interposition in our behalf. To those who comply with the conditions His promise will be fulfilled.

The Great Controversy, p. 136

At the next interview, Luther presented a clear, concise, and forcible exposition of his views, fully supported by many quotations from Scripture. This paper, after reading aloud, he handed to the cardinal, who, however, cast it contemptuously aside, declaring it to be a mass of idle words and irrelevant quotations. Luther, fully aroused, now met the haughty prelate on his own ground--the traditions and teachings of the church--and utterly overthrew his assumptions.

Conclusion
Linda has judged what is important and what is not before knowing all the facts. Again, we cannot use our own reasoning to test a prophet.

Can a person decide on a question to ask in a dream?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I remember sitting around our table Saturday night, October 27, with you and Becky talking about the dreams. You were explaining how you could ask the angel any questions you had. Becky and I were talking about how it would be nice to know how God felt about women wearing pants, and coloring their hair, and even plucking their eyebrows. We suggested that you put those on your list. We talked about several other issues, including knowing which people that were having dreams, like Soo, and Pebbles, were of God. Then I read in the dreams that the angel says you are asleep when you are having the dreams. Can a sleeping person decide on questions to ask in his sleep?”

Fact
Nothing is impossible with God.

God says:

Genesis 18:14

Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Jeremiah 32:27

Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?

Matthew 19:26

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

1 Kings 3:5-12

In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee. And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in. And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.

Conclusion
For one to question whether a prophet can ask questions in their dream while asleep reveals a lack of faith. To the question, is anything too hard for the Lord, the answer comes back that all things are possible with God. Linda comments on a subject that is far above her understanding of how God communicates with His prophets.

Webmaster changing dream?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Less than one month after my initial contact with you, Ernie, you called me up one morning, and said, “You’d better sit down. I have something very important to tell you.” You then proceeded to tell me that the angel had selected me to edit the dream you just had. I was to edit it, and to email it directly to the web master, without you even seeing the final copy. Before I emailed it, I was to show it to my husband, who was to make any necessary corrections to it according to information that the Lord would show him. You suggested that my husband might have a dream that might add to your dream.

“I received by email a rough draft of the SDA Church dream on September 28, 2007. I edited it, as per instructions, and emailed it to my husband, who was out of town on a business trip. He read it and said he didn’t have anything to add. He had received nothing from the Lord. We both thought this was rather strange. I then emailed it to the web master. But, I noticed that the dream that was posted had some minor changes made to my edition. I guess the web master felt at liberty to change some things that even you weren’t supposed to change.”

Ernie’s dream says:

The SDA Church, September 28, 2007

“After you awake, prepare what I have shown you. Send it to Sister Z. She will serve in editing. When she is finished she is to have her husband review it. He will know if anything has been left out as he has already been shown. When he is in agreement with what has been prepared, it is to be sent straightaway to Brother S for posting for His people.” I asked the Herald if Brother Z has received the dream. He said that many are shown and they share. Many are shown and they are afraid to share. Many are shown and they do not recall. Many are shown and they recall after the appointed time. And many are shown through the Father’s Spirit.

David Starkey wrote:

“I am the web admin. I do not change what God tells Ernie.”

David is saying that he only changed grammar or readability. He never changed the content or essence of the dreams. The other fact that Linda was unaware of, and only needed to ask Ernie, is that Ernie did not include all the instructions in the dream or give them all to Linda. He only gave what was necessary to each individual. When Ernie spoke with David, Ernie gave David explicit details of how David was to do the final editing before posting Ernie's dream.

God says:

Pacific Union Recorder, January 15, 1903

Be very careful how you carry reports. Often what you tell to others, though seeming to you to be truth, is misrepresentation. Thus false conclusions are formed. Thread after thread of misrepresentation is woven into the web, until the pattern is spoiled. Oh, how many hearts are grieved and wounded because of statements made by those who do not really know that what they report is true! How much pain is caused by cruel handling of reputation! The course of those who utter the slander would be just as dark if represented as they represent the course of the one whom they are accusing.

Conclusion
Without checking out all the facts, Linda came to conclusions that were false. When we assume, we can get into trouble and hurt others, which, in turn, hurts our Savior.

Should names be mentioned in dreams?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Pride likes to be noticed. The evil angels are good at flattering their victims and making them feel special. Both my husband and myself felt at the time that it was rather unusual that the angel should single us out in this way. You wanted to put our names in the dream, but we both felt uncomfortable with that and insisted that you not do so.”

Fact
Ernie never planned to use your whole names, only an initial, so that you would remain unknown. At your request, a different letter than your last name was used to keep it even more confidential.

Following are examples in which God or His messengers provided names for different reasons.

God says:

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 118

Brother and Sister -----, I saw opposite your names also, in the heavenly record, the word, "Wanting." You need to be emptied of self and the soul temple cleansed. Both of you have ability to do good, but it is unsanctified. You are greatly deficient in the simplicity of godliness. Were the church left to be molded by your standard of religion, it would be demoralized into a worldly, unconsecrated form. You might have been a great blessing to the church, but you have greatly failed. Jesus bids you come out from the spirit of the world. Sister -----, I am alarmed for you and for those who are brought in contact with your influence. You reach a low standard. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." By your words and actions you are now casting the seed. You are either sowing to the flesh or to the Spirit. In the day of final reckoning everyone must take the sickle and mow down the crop his own hand has sown.

2 Chronicles 11:2-4

But the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah the man of God, saying, Speak unto Rehoboam the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and to all Israel in Judah and Benjamin, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren: return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. And they obeyed the words of the LORD, and returned from going against Jeroboam.

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, p. 171

A dream the Lord gave me August 22. I dreamed of being in a wagon with Brother Rhodes and James, and we were to pass a bridge covered with water. As we passed over the bridge I was much frightened, for the water came into the body of the wagon and it seemed that we were sinking. I had my babe with me and I was so frightened I almost let him fall into the water. Brother Rhodes assured me a number of times that there was no danger and that we must necessarily pass through the water over the bridge.

After we had passed safely through the water, my eyes were attracted to something strange in the air. I saw angels marching through the air singing with solemn, clear voices, "For the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?" Their voices rang through the air. Upon their shoulders they had mantles that reached to their feet. Brother Rhodes began to shout with a loud voice and said, "And shall I see Him whom my soul loveth?"

James was counting the angels, and I stood trembling with fear. My life came up before [me] and looked so full of wrongs I could not see how I should be able to stand.

Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, p. 67

We all went under the tree, and sat down to look at the glory of the place, when Brethren Fitch and Stockman, who had preached the gospel of the kingdom, and whom God had laid in the grave to save them, came up to us and asked us what we had passed through while they were sleeping.

A Word to the Little Flock, p. 16

I asked Jesus to let me see what was within there. In a moment we were winging our way upward, and entering in; here we saw good old father Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Noah, Daniel, and many like them.

Linda, have you thought of the possibility that God was giving you and Brian a chance to be a part of the ministry? He was not trying to flatter you. There are always going to be ways in which the devil will try to make us feel proud about ourselves, even when that is not God’s intention when He uses names or other methods. After Daniel had been praying about the Jewish captivity and the time when it would end, God sent Gabriel, the highest angel in heaven, to give him understanding. By the fact that God answered his prayer so quickly, would this be enough to cause Daniel to feel proud about himself? Then, however, Gabriel even tells Daniel he is greatly beloved.

God says:

Daniel 9:23; 10:11

At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision. [10:11] And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.

Conclusion
When names appear in dreams or visions, it does not violate God’s Word. Linda failed to search His Word until she found the answer. Again, God has never given this as a test of a prophet.

Angel’s statement does not make sense?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“You asked the angel in the dream if my husband had received the same dream. Here is the angel’s answer: “Many are shown and they share. Many are shown and they are afraid to share. Many are shown and they do not recall. Many are shown and they recall after the appointed time. Many are shown through the Father’s Spirit.” This statement from the angel made absolutely no sense to us. Did Brian have a dream that he didn’t remember? We had no clue.”

Fact
God often conceals the meaning of a message for a purpose.

God says:

Matthew 13:13

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 187

There are in the Scriptures some things which are hard to be understood, and which, according to the language of Peter, the unlearned and unstable wrest unto their own destruction. We may not, in this life, be able to explain the meaning of every passage of Scripture; but there are no vital points to practical truth that will be clouded in mystery.

S. D. A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 919

It is true that the apostle has said that there are some things that are hard to be understood in the Scriptures. So there are. And if it were not that there are subjects that are difficult and hard to be understood, well might the skeptic who now pleads that God has given a revelation that cannot be understood--well might he, I say--have something else to plead. God's infinity is so much higher than we are, that it is impossible for man to comprehend the mystery of godliness.

Conclusion
Just because parts of Ernie’s dreams seem strange or are not easy to understand, it does not mean they are not from God. Paul wrote of things that are hard to understand, yet Linda does not reject him. Regarding Daniel and Revelation, who can say there is nothing strange or hard to understand in those books? If Ernie’s dreams had nothing strange in them or were all easy to understand, then we could more easily assume they are not from God.

A close friendship?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“We continued communicating with you, developing a close friendship.”

Ernie and Becky disagree with Linda’s statement. Even though they would have liked to develop a close friendship, they do not believe it happened after several phone calls and one visit in person within two months’ time. It was a short friendship and not a close friendship.

Researching Ernie Knoll

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I did some research of my own. First, I asked you if you were involved in a small group, such as a Bible study group or fellowship. You said no. I asked who your close friends were locally, and you said you didn’t have many close friends. I asked where you fellowshipped at church, and you said that you didn’t attend church regularly, because you often just rested at home on Sabbath. Other times you visited around to churches, because the church your membership was at was too far away. You also talked about your speaking appointments, but as it turned out, you had really had few speaking appointments, and two of the major ones turned out to be disasters for you because they were cancelled after you arrived.

I was trying to find others who knew you before the dreams came, from whom I could obtain a character reference. I called your pastor, but he didn’t want to talk about you much, and referred me to your father-in-law. I called that number, and talked with your mother-in-law."

Fact

• The fact that Ernie was not in a Bible study group or did not have many close friends locally at the time does not prove anything.
• Ernie was not attending church regularly at the time because of his poor health. The church where he had his membership was too far away because at the time he had recently moved.
• Yes, at the time Ernie had only a few speaking appointments, because the ministry was just beginning. It is a disgrace that members of God’s last-day church would actually cancel a meeting after Ernie and Becky arrived. Ernie was just beginning to learn the results of opposition. Further details of one incident appear later in this chapter. However, we fail to see why having few speaking appointments is a factor. Is it a rule that every ministry must always have lots of speaking engagements? On the other hand, Linda spoke too soon. In 2008 and 2009, Ernie and Becky traversed the U.S. many times, giving 30 presentations.
• It is no surprise that a pastor would not discuss Ernie's ministry. The conference was already criticizing Ernie because of the tithe issue.
• The pastor referred Linda to Ernie’s father-in-law because he was the head elder at his church.

God says:

Manuscript Releases, No. 926, p. 54

She goes not only to those who believe and know me to tell her story but she goes to those newly come to the faith and tells her imaginative story. The same sentiment is expressed as in Numbers 16:3.

Sketches from the Life of Paul, p. 103

When Christ was upon earth, the Jews all over the land were notified to watch his movements, for their religion was not safe where his influence was felt. He was continually followed by spies, who caught up every word and act which they could use against him. Paul had to meet the same spirit of opposition and blind prejudice. He preached first in the synagogue, reasoning from Moses and the prophets, showing what sins the Lord had most severely punished in olden times, and that murmuring and rebellion was the grievous crime that had brought God's displeasure upon the people of his choice.

Conclusion
Because Linda uses her own tests of a prophet, she takes it upon herself to conduct a “witch hunt.” Again, without all the facts, she comes to wrong conclusions and false assumptions. She joins in the same spirit as those who spied on Christ, who opposed Paul, murmuring and rebelling, which brings God’s displeasure upon her. Ernie’s prayer is that Linda will again believe in God’s messages of the dreams before it is ever too late. It is not just Ernie she opposes, but God Himself.

Worried a prediction would not happen

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“On October 21, 2007, you called me, Ernie, to tell me about a dream you had just had. I talked to both you and Becky. You stated that you were shaking, and seemed quiet emotional. I don’t know what word to use to describe your feelings, but I believe you stated you were scared. You stated that this was the first dream that had a direct prophecy in it, and you expressed the fact that you were afraid that, if it was not fulfilled, that it would prove your dreams to be false. I remember mentioning to Brian afterwards, that it seems like you would certainly want to know if the dreams were false, and this would be a good way to test it! You actually seemed more worried for your reputation than about finding out if the dreams were really from God.”

Fact
Please notice in Linda’s description she uses the words, “I believe you stated you were scared.” This does not sound like someone who remembers correctly. If Linda cannot provide proof that Ernie was scared that the dreams would prove false, she should not have mentioned it because it amounts to gossip. Ernie states that he was not scared simply surprised. It is only natural for him to care about his reputation, because it reflects on God’s ministry. Should we throw out Jonah since he “feared lest he should be regarded as a false prophet”? (The Review and Herald, October 18, 1906) However, Ernie was more interested in knowing if the dreams were from God. Who in their right mind would not want to know? Since that time, however, both Ernie and Becky have learned more fully that all God’s promises are conditional and that, if they happen, it is in God’s timing.

God says:

Fundamentals of Christian Education, pp. 405-406

Christ brought to our world a certain knowledge of God, and to all who received and obeyed His word, gave He power to become the sons of God. He who came forth from God to our world gave instruction on every subject about which it is essential that man should know in order to find the pathway to heaven. To Him, truth was an ever-present, self-evident reality; He uttered no suggestions, advanced no sentiments, notions, or opinions, but presented only solid, saving truth.

Everything not comprehended in truth is the guesswork of man.

Conclusion
Linda is in the habit of guesswork and gossip. In addition, as God stated in the “Testing the Spirits” dream, she has a memory problem.

Easier to accept if Becky had dreams?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I felt very close to Becky, as she is a very sweet and sincere person. She seemed to have a genuine relationship with Jesus. I remember telling Brian, if Becky was the one receiving the dreams, I would find it a lot easier to believe in them.”

Fact
God has never told us that if we like a person they pass the test of a prophet.

God says:

Isaiah 8:20

To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

Conclusion
Again, Linda reveals how little she knows of how to test a prophet. Failing to turn to the Bible for guidance, Linda prefers to rely upon who she feels would be appropriate for the job. She places her focus more on the messenger than the messages.

Conversation centered around dreams

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Then we met you in person when you came to our home Friday evening, October 26, 2007. We found you to be a very likeable and talkative person, with the conversation totally centered around your dreams. I was really hoping for a deep season of prayer, and some discussion of truth as found in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, but instead the entire focus was on your dreams. Your prayer was brief and casual, not like someone who had truly encountered Divinity.”

Fact
Since Linda invited Ernie to share the dreams, would it not make sense that they be the central theme? We would think that if God gave Linda the same dreams, she would be happy about sharing them as well. Ernie was told to share the dreams. This is what he was doing.

God says:

Jeremiah 23:28

The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD.

Daniel 7:1

In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters.

Genesis 37:5

And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.

Jeremiah 15:16; 20:9

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. [20:9] Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay.

Ernie Knoll says: (in his open letter to Linda)

“Where as I am enthusiastic about sharing the experience of the dreams I have been given, I cannot understand why you feel one would not want to hear of the things I saw in heaven, but the most precious was of my walk with Jesus. This is also why you invited us. We spent quite a time as the small group you invited had many questions and I was more than willing to answer these. Anyone experiencing the dreams I have would want to share the experience.”

Fact
Linda’s letter states that she was hoping for a deep season of prayer and some discussion of truth as found in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. Ernie and Becky both remember discussing Bible and Spirit of Prophecy as well as the apostasy in the Church. They also listened as Linda and Brian shared their experiences. Therefore, to state that the entire focus and conversation centered on the dreams is a false statement.

Ernie says:

“However, you did not take into account the fact of the experience of the dream I had the day before which I shared, (‘Pray for Protection’). You did not take into consideration that after the long drive Becky and I had that we might be tired. If you wanted to have a season of prayer you should have said so. As you readily know, we cannot share with you an expectation that you do not bring to our attention. Instead of asking if a season of prayer could be had, you now write about it in this open letter.”

Ernie’s prayer was brief because of the lateness of the hour. Linda tries to make it appear that Ernie is not a very spiritual person because his prayer was short and, according to her description, “casual.” In Christ’s day, the Jews believed that saying longs prayers showed they were pious. However Christ, “…rebuked their long prayers on the corners of the streets, and the wearing of their long robes for the purpose of making people think they were very pious, when at the same time they would devour with exactions widows' houses.” The Signs of the Times, February 27, 1896.

S. D. A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1105

The 11th chapter of 2 Corinthians contains much instruction. It reveals to us that men who are liable to view matters after human eyesight may make very grave mistakes if they engage in a work that God has not appointed, but condemned. That work is to criticize, to climb upon the judgment seat, and pronounce sentence. How much better would it be for the spiritual advancement of such to look well to their own shortcomings and defects of character through watchful examination of their own hearts, to try to remove from them the beam of faultfinding, of evil surmising, of evil speaking, of bearing false witness, of hatred, and accusing of the brethren (MS 142, 1897).

Summation
If we had dreams like Ernie’s, we should want to share them as well. Linda implies that Ernie was self-absorbed in his dreams and not a very spiritual person because of his short prayer that night. This is how she perceived the situation, but it does not mean her perception was correct.

Conclusion
It is good that Jesus will be our judge and not our fellow men. We can trust that when Jesus judges us in His judgment, He will consider all the facts.

Trivial matters?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Throughout the weekend, every topic that was brought up always was redirected to your dreams. You even shared some dreams with us that were not inspired, and even a bit silly. This got a little wearisome to us. You mentioned several times how you’d like to fly your remote control airplanes on our large property. This seemed so trivial to me.”

Fact
The reason Ernie shared his common dreams was to show the difference between those and dreams from God. Regarding the mention of flying airplanes, Ernie was simply admiring their large open property. According to Ernie and Becky, not every topic was always redirected to the dreams. Yes, the dreams were the main focus but were not mentioned in every topic, such as certain experiences of Linda and Brian or others, discussing their children or a meal, admiring their property, etc.

Conclusion
Why does Linda complain that Ernie talks about his dreams all the time, yet when he speaks about things not relating to his dreams, she accuses him of talking about trivial matters?

God says:

The Indiana Reporter, May 8, 1907

There are many who find special enjoyment in discoursing and dwelling upon the defects, whether real or imaginary, of those who bear heavy responsibilities in connection with God's cause. They overlook the good that has been accomplished, the benefits that have resulted from arduous labor and unflinching devotion to the cause, and fasten their attention on some apparent mistake, when the truth is, had they been left to do the work, they either would have refused to move at all under the attending discouragements of the case, or would have managed more indiscreetly than those who did do the work.

In your blindness you have ventured to handle the servant of God in a cruel manner. "Touch not mine anointed," saith God, "and do my prophets no harm." It is not a small matter to array yourself against men whom God has sent with light and truth for the people. Beware how you influence souls and reiterate insinuations and misrepresentations which have originated in an unsanctified heart. Souls are defiled by this root of bitterness, and are, through these questioning, murmuring ones, placed where the testimony of reproof which God sends will not reach them.

Outreach endeavors

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I asked you about your outreach endeavors. Perhaps, I thought, you were involved in Bible studies, or distributing literature, and so on. You said that you told people whenever you got a chance that you were receiving dreams from God. This did not sound like witnessing at all to me, but rather a way to exalt yourself. This troubled me also.”

Fact
Working in God’s service entails more than simply giving Bible studies and handing out literature. When the disciples spoke about having been with Jesus, was that exalting themselves or witnessing? When Ellen White spoke about her visions and dreams, was she exalting herself or witnessing?

Remember that Ernie and Becky not only tell people about the dreams but also share the dream books (which also contain pertinent Bible and Spirit of Prophecy quotes) and the Creeping Compromise books. Their outreach has also included sharing God’s Word by phone, email, traveling to give their presentations, and through their website (www.formypeople.org). Ernie and Becky have had Bible studies and distributed literature throughout the years. They praise God for the part they are able to do now and look forward to the day when God will purify the Church and “there will be thousands converted to the truth in a day who at the eleventh hour see and acknowledge the truth and the movements of the Spirit of God.” {Last Day Events, p. 212}

God says:

Matthew 28:19

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

God’s Amazing Grace, p. 211

The vine has many branches, but though all the branches are different, they do not quarrel. In diversity there is unity. All the branches obtain their nourishment from one source. This is an illustration of the unity that is to exist among Christ's followers. In their different lines of work they all have but one Head. The same Spirit, in different ways, works through them. There is harmonious action, though the gifts differ. . . . God calls for each one ... to do his appointed work according to the ability which has been given him.

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 453

As Paul spoke of what he knew, and testified of what he had seen, concerning Jesus of Nazareth as the hope of Israel, those who were honestly seeking for truth were convinced. Upon some minds, at least, his words made an impression that was never effaced. But others stubbornly refused to accept the plain testimony of the Scriptures, even when presented to them by one who had the special illumination of the Holy Spirit. They could not refute his arguments, but they refused to accept his conclusions.

Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 123

The people partook largely of the same spirit, intruding upon the province of conscience and judging one another in matters that lay between the soul and God. It was in reference to this spirit and practice that Jesus said, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." That is, do not set yourself up as a standard. Do not make your opinions, your views of duty, your interpretations of Scripture, a criterion for others and in your heart condemn them if they do not come up to your ideal. Do not criticize others, conjecturing as to their motives and passing judgment upon them.

Conclusion
Once again, Linda uses human reasoning to judge and condemn Ernie. How does she know all that God has appointed Ernie to do?

Trying to impress people?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“The concern was expressed by some who met you that day that they did not sense a spirit of humility. I mentioned to Becky on the side that she needed to tell you not to recount how muscular and strong you were as a young man, what a powerful job you had in which you told the executives in hospitals how to spend millions of dollars, how you had a mansion and expensive cars, and so on. What it felt like is that you were trying to impress everyone that you were truly an important person.”

Fact
Linda should have approached Ernie with her issue to get the facts straight. Ernie has explained that he did not mention his strength as a young man to impress everyone but to compare how he was then to when he was very ill (before he was healed), which is what he was discussing with the group. When discussing his job, home and cars, it was showing how God had given but then God took away, as in the example of Job. Regarding the “mansion” and “expensive cars,” they were not fancy compared to American standards, but they seemed like it to Ernie because he grew up in a very poor family.

God says:

The Desire of Ages, p. 314

Judge not, that ye be not judged.” Do not think yourself better than other men, and set yourself up as their judge. Since you cannot discern motive, you are incapable of judging another. In criticizing him, you are passing sentence upon yourself; for you show that you are a participant with Satan, the accuser of the brethren. The Lord says, "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves." This is our work. "If we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged." 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 Corinthians 11:31.

Conclusion
Since no man can discern the motives of another, how then does Linda set herself up as Ernie’s judge? We must realize that the way in which we judge others, including Ernie, God will judge us the same way.

No invitation from church leaders

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Our pastor, who couldn’t be at the meeting we scheduled, asked me to have the spiritual leaders of the church come and evaluate you and your message, to see if we should invite you to come and present a church-wide meeting. We all listened to you and Becky for over three hours, and had opportunity to ask any questions we wanted. After the meeting, I waited for the reactions of those present. There were a couple of women who were excited, and seemed to believe in the dreams, but neither of these women were invited there as church leaders, but just happened to be there. Brian and I found it very disconcerting that not one of the spiritual church leaders even suggested that we should have you come back to the church for an official presentation, even though they knew that was the original intention. One of the elders was especially concerned, and contacted Pastor Wohlberg, our former pastor, and you know the end of that story.”

Fact
When Jesus was on earth, how many of the “spiritual leaders” accepted Jesus? In the same way, we are not surprised when regular Church members believe in the dreams, while the “spiritual leaders” of the Church do not believe in the dreams that God gives Ernie. With the knowledge that Brian and Linda had of the apostasy in the church, they should not have found it disconcerting that not one of the leaders suggested giving Ernie an invitation to speak. Yes, Ernie is aware of the “end of the story” with Pastor Steve Wohlberg and is very saddened by this event. Ernie prays that all will see the error of their ways, as the Lord showed in Ernie’s dreams.

God says:

John 7:48

Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?

Counsels on Health, p. 357

The ministers of the popular churches will not allow the truth to be presented to the people from their pulpits. The enemy leads them to resist the truth with bitterness and malice. Falsehoods are manufactured. Christ's experience with the Jewish rulers is repeated. Satan strives to eclipse every ray of light shining from God to His people. He works through the ministers as he worked through the priests and rulers in the days of Christ. Will those who know the truth join his party, to hinder, embarrass, and turn aside those who are trying to work in God's appointed way to advance His work, to plant the standard of truth in the regions of darkness?

Conclusion
“Spiritual leaders” have rarely accepted God’s prophets. Should Ernie expect any different treatment from the Church? Jesus said, “Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.” John 15:20.

Did not appear humble

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I will share some of the impressions and concerns of the group that heard you speak to us that Sabbath, October 27, 2007. The deaconess stated that she was not impressed because of your lack of humility. When one of the elders asked questions in a very humble manner, she said that you responded rather defensively, justifying your position, and discounting his questions.”

Fact
Unfortunately, the deaconess judged as wrongly as Linda did. If she thought Ernie was not being humble or was defensive, etc., she should have discussed the issue with Ernie first instead of assuming wrong. Ernie was not justifying his own position but God’s, because his ministry is about sharing and defending God’s messages. Ernie was simply sharing God’s truth and if that set wrong with those who heard it, then “let there be difference, and even war.”

God says:

The Great Controversy, pp. 45-46

To secure peace and unity they were ready to make any concession consistent with fidelity to God; but they felt that even peace would be too dearly purchased at the sacrifice of principle. If unity could be secured only by the compromise of truth and righteousness, then let there be difference, and even war.

Well would it be for the church and the world if the principles that actuated those steadfast souls were revived in the hearts of God's professed people.

Amos 3 [A dual application for modern Israel]

[1] Hear this word that the LORD hath spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying, [2] You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. [3] Can two walk together, except they be agreed? [7] Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets. [8] The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy? [10] For they know not to do right, saith the LORD, who store up violence and robbery in their palaces. [11] Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; An adversary there shall be even round about the land; and he shall bring down thy strength from thee, and thy palaces shall be spoiled. [13] Hear ye, and testify in the house of Jacob, saith the Lord GOD, the God of hosts, [14] That in the day that I shall visit the transgressions of Israel upon him I will also visit the altars of Bethel: and the horns of the altar shall be cut off, and fall to the ground. [15] And I will smite the winter house with the summer house; and the houses of ivory shall perish, and the great houses shall have an end, saith the LORD.

Joshua 7:13

Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.

Summation
The deaconess judged and assumed wrong just as Linda did. She should have discussed the issue with Ernie first.

Conclusion
The majority of the Church members do not see the “accursed thing” among them. By God’s grace, Ernie will continue to defend God’s messages. A person should never compromise sharing truth for obtaining peace.

Joking about heavenly things?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“She was concerned about the light hearted, almost joking manner in which you talked about heavenly things.”

Fact
Where is the proof? Where are the examples? Ernie has stated that he did not mention and would not want to mention anything about heavenly things in a joking matter. However, is it a sin to be light-hearted?

The Free Dictionary, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/lighthearted

Not being burdened by trouble, worry, or care; happy and carefree.

God says:

Proverbs 15:13, 15; 17:22

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

[15] All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

[17:22] A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

Gospel Workers, p. 478

If you do not feel light-hearted and joyous, do not talk of your feelings. Cast no shadow upon the lives of others. A cold, sunless religion never draws souls to Christ. It drives them away from Him, into the nets that Satan has spread for the feet of the straying. Instead of thinking of your discouragements, think of the power you can claim in Christ's name. Let your imagination take hold upon things unseen. Let your thoughts be directed to the evidences of the great love of God for you. Faith can endure trial, resist temptation, bear up under disappointment. Jesus lives as our advocate. All is ours that His mediation secures.

Conclusion
It is becoming obvious that no matter what Ernie said or how he said it, Linda would judge him as in error.

Gospel Workers, p. 479

Cultivate the habit of speaking well of others. Dwell upon the good qualities of those with whom you associate, and see as little as possible of their errors and failings. When tempted to complain of what some one has said or done, praise something in that person's life or character. Cultivate thankfulness. Praise God for His wonderful love in giving Christ to die for us. It never pays to think of our grievances. God calls upon us to think of His mercy and His matchless love, that we may be inspired with praise.

Accepting tithe

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“But she was mostly concerned when you stated that you accepted tithe. She felt that this was inappropriate, and that you, of all people, should be most careful not to do anything that could be questionable like accepting tithe.”

Fact
If Ernie or anyone else never did something because it was questionable, then they would not be able to share present truth with the world, because that is certainly questionable with the majority, even professed Christians.

God says:

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 19, p. 247

It cannot be said that the majority of those who claim to be Christians are truly spiritual-minded. As true today as when uttered by the lips of the great Teacher, are the words: "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able" [Luke 13:24]. "For wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it" [Matt. 7:13, 14].

Linda failed to mention that someone in the group asked Ernie whether he accepts tithe. He does not solicit tithe, however, if someone asks whether he accepts tithe, he answers that he does. If there are those that the Holy Spirit convicts to send their tithe to Ernie, he cannot go against that conviction. Tithe is to support those who minister in the Word. Because Ernie’s ministry ministers in the Word, he is entitled to a share of the tithe.

God says:

Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 117

There are ministers' wives, Sisters Starr, Haskell, Wilson and Robinson, who have been devoted, earnest, whole-souled workers, giving Bible readings and praying with families, helping along by personal efforts just as successfully as their husbands. These women give their whole time, and are told that they receive nothing for their labors because their husbands receive their wages. I tell them to go forward and all such decisions shall be reversed. The Word says, "The laborer is worthy of his hire." When any such decision as this is made, I will in the name of the Lord, protest. I will feel it in my duty to create a fund from my tithe money, to pay these women who are accomplishing just as essential work as the ministers are doing, and this tithe I will reserve for work in the same line as that of the ministers, hunting for souls, fishing for souls. I know that these faithful women should be paid wages proportionate to the pay received by ministers.

Conclusion
By God’s standards, conference pastors are not the only ones who should receive tithe. Please refer to chapter 1 for more details on the tithe issue.

SAU presentation

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Also, she had noticed on your web site that you stated that you had made a presentation at Southern University. Naturally, this would lend credibility to claims to have spoken at an SDA college. You then explained to us how you had this appointment, made the travel arrangements, and arrived at Southern, only to be told upon arrival that your meeting had been cancelled. You told how you met with some officials, and that this was a fulfillment of the dream Go Forth. You did talk to a small group out on the lawn, but this certainly was not an official meeting at Southern University. The deaconess felt that posting the meetings on the web site was a dishonest way to lend credibility to your dreams. [That posting has since been removed.]”

Fact
Ernie and Becky requested their webmaster to post the Southern Adventist University (SAU) event as an announcement, not as a reason to lend credibility to the dreams. Because of the accusations made at the meeting with Linda’s group (October 28, 2007), Ernie and Becky asked their webmaster to remove the posting. Following is the history behind the SAU incident as written by Becky.

“In March of 2007, Ernie and I began receiving emails from two SAU students who also received pertinent dreams from the Lord. They were inspired by not only their own dreams but Ernie’s as well, and their lives were changing. They decided to plan a meeting at SAU where we could all share the dreams as a witness to the students. They told us they had gotten permission to do so and proceeded with the plans. They had also placed posters around the campus to announce the event for April 21, 2007.

“The meeting was ready, so we flew to SAU. However, we received a phone call Sabbath morning from one of the students to say that the meeting was off and we could go home. We were greatly disappointed to think that we would not be able to share with those who came (some from far away) and that we were not notified of this change before making the trip. The student then informed us that a teacher and some students wanted us to meet with them in private, including the two who had dreams. We did so and they audio recorded us as we were interrogated and had accusations thrown at us for quite some time. It was truly like being in front of the ‘great council of elders’ from the ‘Go Forth’ dream. In the meantime, some of the people who had driven to attend the meeting were able to find our whereabouts. They patiently waited until the private meeting ended so they could talk with us. We met with them on one of the SAU lawns and were able to share the dreams and had a wonderful fellowship together. We were smiling through our tears.

“To this day we do not know why the meeting was cancelled. Was it because the faculty discovered more details about the dreams that disagreed with their ideas? We do know that some of the students involved in the meeting setup were upset because they wanted to play their contemporary music during the meeting and we had told them we could not allow that, especially since Jesus had shared with Ernie in his ‘View of Heaven’ dream about the problem of that type of music in our churches (with Spirit of Prophecy quotes included). What saddens us most regarding this issue is how the enemy is destroying the lives of our young people.”

God says:

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, p. 247

In the parable of the sower the question was asked the master, "Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? From whence then hath it tares?" The master answered, "An enemy hath done this." [Matt. 13:27, 28.] All tares are sown by the evil one.

Ellen G. White: The Early Years, p. 360

August 22, 1857, at the house of prayer in Monterey, Michigan, I was shown that many have not yet heard the voice of Jesus, and the saving message has not taken hold of the soul and worked a reformation in the life. Many of the young have not the spirit of Jesus. The love of God is not in their hearts, therefore all the natural besetments hold the victory instead of the Spirit of God and salvation.--1T, p. 154.

It was a startling message, portraying the needs of the young people in the church, comparing "themselves among themselves" and while doing this, neglecting "the only perfect and true standard" and pattern, Jesus, having largely lost sight of Him. She repeated the words of the angel to her:

"If such should be ushered into the City of God, and told that all its rich beauty and glory was theirs to enjoy eternally, they would have no sense of how dearly that inheritance was purchased for them. They would never realize the matchless depths of a Saviour's love. They have not drunk of the cup, nor been baptized with the baptism. Heaven would be marred if such should dwell there. Those only who have partaken of the sufferings of the Son of God, and have come up through great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, can enjoy the indescribable glory and unsurpassed beauty of heaven."--Ibid., p. 155.

Matthew 10:14

And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.

Conclusion
One should not rush to conclusions without knowing all the facts.

Talk ego-centric and not spiritual?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“An elder and his wife stated that it seemed like your talk was ego-centric. He didn’t sense the message to be helpful spiritually. He was also uncomfortable about the Southern University announcement, and felt it was deceptive to use as an endorsement. They both felt very uneasy about your presentation. These are just comments that some of those present at the meetings shared with me.”

Fact
Again, notice how the words “sense,” “felt,” and “seemed” all express one’s own perception of the situation, which is not reliable at detecting truth. It is sad to think that Ernie was perceived as being egocentric when he shared what he saw in his dreams and answered questions about himself. How can one give a response or description of what they have experienced without using the words “I,” “me,” “my” and “myself”? People will always feel uneasy with those who do not live up to their own preconceived ideas. Fortunately, many others have shared that the messages have not only been helpful spiritually but have also changed their lives for Jesus.

God says:

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 431

All who in that evil day would fearlessly serve God according to the dictates of conscience, will need courage, firmness, and a knowledge of God and His word; for those who are true to God will be persecuted, their motives will be impugned, their best efforts misinterpreted, and their names cast out as evil. Satan will work with all his deceptive power to influence the heart and becloud the understanding, to make evil appear good, and good evil. The stronger and purer the faith of God's people, and the firmer their determination to obey Him, the more fiercely will Satan strive to stir up against them the rage of those who, while claiming to be righteous, trample upon the law of God. It will require the firmest trust, the most heroic purpose, to hold fast the faith once delivered to the saints.

Christian Experience and Teaching of Ellen G. White, p. 140

Excessive labor, care, and anxiety, a lack of proper and nourishing food, and exposure to cold in our long winter journeys, were too much for my husband, and he sank under the burden. He became so weak that he could scarcely walk to the printing office. Our faith was tried to the utmost. We had willingly endured privation, toil, and suffering, yet our motives were misinterpreted, and we were regarded with distrust and jealousy. Few of those for whose good we had suffered, seemed to appreciate our efforts.

We were too much troubled to sleep or rest. The hours in which we should have been refreshed with sleep, were often spent in answering long communications occasioned by envy. Many hours, while others were sleeping, we spent in agonizing tears, and mourning before the Lord.

Our Father Cares, p. 267

Troublous times are before us. In many instances, friends will become alienated. Without cause, men will become our enemies. The motives of the people of God will be misinterpreted, not only by the world, but by their own brethren. The Lord’s servants will be put in hard places. A mountain will be made out of a molehill to justify men in pursuing a selfish, unrighteous course.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 328

God has placed the gifts in the church that the church may be benefited by them; and when professed believers in the truth oppose these gifts, and fight against the visions, souls are in danger through their influence, and it is time then to labor with them, that the weak may not be led astray by their influence.

Conclusion
As far as possible, we are to labor with those who fight against the visions so that the “weak may not be led astray.” However, what we are discovering is that those who do will meet with the same opposition as those who have dreams and visions. We must remember that the opposition never stopped Jesus from going to the cross for our sake!

Biggest red flag - Ernie’s conversion and being angry with God

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“From your own testimony, Ernie, the biggest red flag that has been raised is regarding your conversion experience. You shared with us how you were a “pew warmer” for those 25 years that you were an Elder, and didn’t have a close relationship with Jesus. Then, you got sick, lost your job, and lost everything. You began questioning God, then you started blaming God for allowing you to become sick, and cause you to lose your job, and to be humbled to being a person of no importance, even to having to vacuum your mother-in-law’s living room. When you went to bed on the night of December 9, 2006, you were discouraged, angry at God, and wanting to die. You challenged God to prove that he loved you, by coming down and talking to you like He did the other prophets.”

Fact
There is a difference between anger and discouragement. Ernie and Becky testify that he was never angry with God or yelled at Him as others have stated. Ernie actually felt that God was angry with him, and he did not feel God’s love at the time because of what he was going through, even though He knew that God is love. That is why feelings cannot always be trusted. Ernie did not realize at the time that God allowed those very trials for his good.

If Linda is willing to discredit Ernie for wanting to die, is she willing to make the same statement regarding Job and Elijah?

God says:

Job 3:11; 6:8-9; 10:1, 18-21

Why died I not from the womb? Why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly? [6:8-9] Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for! Even that it would please God to destroy me; that he would let loose his hand, and cut me off! [10:1] “My soul is weary of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul.” [18-21] Wherefore then hast thou brought me forth out of the womb? Oh that I had given up the ghost, and no eye had seen me! I should have been as though I had not been; I should have been carried from the womb to the grave. Are not my days few? Cease then, and let me alone, that I may take comfort a little, Before I go whence I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death.

Conflict and Courage, p. 223

In the desert, in loneliness and discouragement, Elijah had said that he had had enough of life and had prayed that he might die. But the Lord in His mercy had not taken him at his word. There was yet a great work for Elijah to do; and when his work was done, he was not to perish in discouragement and solitude. Not for him the descent into the tomb, but the ascent with God's angels to the presence of His glory.

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 56

As the Elder Brother of our race He knows the necessities of those who, compassed with infirmity and living in a world of sin and temptation, still desire to serve Him. He knows that the messengers whom He sees fit to send are weak, erring men; but to all who give themselves wholly to His service He promises divine aid. His own example is an assurance that earnest, persevering supplication to God in faith--faith that leads to entire dependence upon God, and unreserved consecration to His work--will avail to bring to men the Holy Spirit's aid in the battle against sin. (That is Ernie’s prayer.)

Conclusion
If this is Linda’s “biggest red flag,” where is the biblical evidence to support it? Where does God instruct us that those who are discouraged or want to die cannot be God’s prophets?

Did not know Christ?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

"We are warned in God’s Word: 'Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;' Hebrews 12:15

'Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.' Eph 4:26,27

In the above text, the word 'place' in the Greek means opportunity, power, occasion for action. According to your own testimony, you were in a miserable frame of mind that night. You had not spent significant time in God’s Word, and admitted you didn’t know Christ.”

Fact
Has Linda ever thought of the idea that because Ernie was not living the ideal Christian life, that is why God decided to give him a dream to help him as well as others in the same condition? Nebuchadnezzar, Saul and Ellen White are examples of this. Why is it that people are willing to accept an evangelist or pastor even though their past life has not been exemplary, such as a life of theft or drug abuse? Why is this situation all of a sudden different when it comes to someone having dreams or visions in our day? What does Linda think about the life of Abraham, David, or Moses who sinned while they were prophets but still remained prophets for God? What does Linda think about the prophet Hosea who married a prostitute because that is what God instructed? (See Hosea chapters 1 and 2)

In addition, Linda fails to mention that Ernie was praying to God that night and He chose to answer his earnest request. Even after a life of sin, when a person sincerely comes to God in prayer, He does not cast them away as Linda has. Again, we are thankful that God is the Great Judge! He knows our heart and our motives.

God says:

Prophets and Kings, p. 520

For seven years Nebuchadnezzar was an astonishment to all his subjects; for seven years he was humbled before all the world. Then his reason was restored and, looking up in humility to the God of heaven, he recognized the divine hand in his chastisement. In a public proclamation he acknowledged his guilt and the great mercy of God in his restoration.

The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 101-102

At the scene of Stephen's trial and death, Saul had seemed to be imbued with a frenzied zeal. Afterward he was angered by his own secret conviction that Stephen had been honored by God at the very time when he was dishonored by men. Saul continued to persecute the church of God, hunting them down, seizing them in their houses, and delivering them up to the priests and rulers for imprisonment and death. His zeal in carrying forward this persecution brought terror to the Christians at Jerusalem. The Roman authorities made no special effort to stay the cruel work and secretly aided the Jews in order to conciliate them and to secure their favor.

After the death of Stephen, Saul was elected a member of the Sanhedrin council in consideration of the part he had acted on that occasion. For a time he was a mighty instrument in the hands of Satan to carry out his rebellion against the Son of God. But soon this relentless persecutor was to be employed in building up the church that he was now tearing down. A Mightier than Satan had chosen Saul to take the place of the martyred Stephen, to preach and suffer for His name, and to spread far and wide the tidings of salvation through His blood.

Messages to Young People, p. 250

To every sincere prayer an answer will come. It may not come just as you desire, or at the time you look for it; but it will come in the way and at the time that will best meet your need. The prayers you offer in loneliness, in weariness, in trial, God answers, not always according to your expectations, but always for your good.

Psalm 147:3

He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

Conclusion
God does use even the worst of us to carry out His plans. Sometimes “His ways are past finding out.” Romans 11:33.

Ungodly state of mind?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Your prayers were full of bitterness, blame and doubt. You disbelieved the very Word of God, which tells us beyond question of God’s love for us. You were unhappy, discontented, discouraged, begging God to let you die. It was in this frame of mind that you went to sleep. Ernie, I believe your ungodly state of mind gave place to the devil, giving him opportunity, power and occasion for action. You were also begging for a supernatural experience. And you received one, did you not?”

Fact
As stated before, Ernie never doubted God’s love; he simply did not feel it at the time. We do not always feel what we know to be fact. Thus, Ernie was not disbelieving God’s Word as Linda suggests. Linda never asked and Ernie never told her that his actual state of mind as he went to sleep that night was one of peace, willing to accept whatever God willed for him. If Ernie was in an ungodly state of mind that night, would he even have bothered talking to God for hours before falling asleep? In addition, because Ernie did not pray aloud that night, Satan would have no way of knowing what was on his mind. Yes, Ernie did receive a supernatural experience, just as all the other prophets of God throughout history. However, it did not come from Satan, as Linda suggests, but from the God who showed Ernie how much He loves us.

God says:

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 14, p. 133

I would speak in warning to those who have stood for years resisting light and cherishing the spirit of opposition. How long will you hate and despise the messengers of God's righteousness? God has given them His message. They bear the word of the Lord. There is salvation for you, but only through the merits of Jesus Christ. The grace of the Holy Spirit has been offered you again and again. Light and power from on high have been shed abundantly in the midst of you. Here was evidence, that all might discern whom the Lord recognized as His servants. But there are those who despised the men and the message they bore. They have taunted them with being fanatics, extremists, and enthusiasts. Let me prophesy unto you: Unless you speedily humble your hearts before God, and confess your sins, which are many, you will, when it is too late, see that you have been fighting against God. Through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, no longer unto reformation and pardon, you will see that these men whom you have spoken against have been as signs in the world, as witnesses for God. Then you would give the whole world if you could redeem the past, and be just, zealous men, moved by the Spirit of God to lift your voice in solemn warning to the world; and like them, to be in principle firm as a rock. Your turning things upside down is known of the Lord. Go on a little longer as you have gone in rejection of the light from heaven, and you are lost. "The man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation."

Psalm 105:15

Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.

Conclusion
Again, Linda makes false assumptions. When we accuse God’s messengers, we fight against God.

Not spiritually prepared?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“It seems apparent that this is what opened the door to a satanic delusion. You were not spiritually prepared to be called to be a holy messenger of God’s pure truth to His people. You were, instead, setting the scene for an encounter with demons.

Even the dream itself posed major concerns. How could God take one who was in a rebellious, doubting frame of mind and exalt him to the height few humans have ever experienced, to have direct communication with Jesus?”

Fact
God is able to use rebellious, doubting people and exalt them to a height few humans have experienced. Remember Saul and Nebuchadnezzar? What does Linda think about Esau, Pilate’s wife, and others listed in the Bible who received dreams from God?

God says:

Acts 9:1-6

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 113

Not without severe trial did Saul come to this conclusion. But in the end his education and prejudices, his respect for his former teachers, and his pride of popularity braced him to rebel against the voice of conscience and the grace of God. And having fully decided that the priests and scribes were right, Saul became very bitter in his opposition to the doctrines taught by the disciples of Jesus. His activity in causing holy men and women to be dragged before tribunals, where some were condemned to imprisonment and some even to death, solely because of their faith in Jesus, brought sadness and gloom to the newly organized church, and caused many to seek safety in flight.

Manuscript Releases, Vol. 13, p. 61

God had revealed Himself to Nebuchadnezzar in giving him the dream of the great image, and in sending His servant Daniel to explain its meaning. God had made known to the king what should be hereafter, and his kingdom was represented by the head of gold… God had greatly honored the king in communicating with him; but He allowed him to follow his own inventions.

Conflict and Courage, p. 70

While Jacob was wrestling with the Angel, another heavenly messenger was sent to Esau. In a dream, Esau beheld his brother for twenty years an exile from his father's house; he witnessed his grief at finding his mother dead; he saw him encompassed by the hosts of God. This dream was related by Esau to his soldiers, with the charge not to harm Jacob, for the God of his father was with him.

Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 238

Inspiration faithfully records the faults of good men, those who were distinguished by the favor of God; indeed, their faults are more fully presented than their virtues. This has been a subject of wonder to many, and has given the infidel occasion to scoff at the Bible. But it is one of the strongest evidences of the truth of Scripture, that facts are not glossed over, nor the sins of its chief characters suppressed. The minds of men are so subject to prejudice that it is not possible for human histories to be absolutely impartial. Had the Bible been written by uninspired persons, it would no doubt have presented the character of its honored men in a more flattering light. But as it is, we have a correct record of their experiences.

Men whom God favored, and to whom He entrusted great responsibilities, were sometimes overcome by temptation and committed sin, even as we at the present day strive, waver, and frequently fall into error. Their lives, with all their faults and follies, are open before us, both for our encouragement and warning. If they had been represented as without fault, we, with our sinful nature, might despair at our own mistakes and failures. . . . He sees sin in His most favored ones, and He deals with it in them even more strictly than in those who have less light and responsibility.

Conclusion
If God could use the disciples, all of which had serious faults before Jesus called them, if He could use Saul, one who condemned Christians to death, to take up their cross and follow Jesus, if he could give dreams to Nebuchadnezzar, Esau and Pilate’s wife, why could He not use Ernie? Where does the Bible say God cannot use such people? On the other hand, is this just a misguided belief of Linda’s?

No sign of true repentance in your dream

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“And when you saw Jesus, and talked with Him, what was your experience then? I would have thought, according to many the biblical accounts of holy prophets who encountered divine or angelic beings, that you would have fallen on your face, in acknowledgement of great unworthiness, especially in the light of your frame of mind when you fell asleep. I would have thought that you would have wept and bemoaned your lack of faith, your blatant challenge to God, your prior wasted life in denying the power of God. A genuine conversion would have included all of this. Instead, you talked about the material aspects of heaven. That seems very shallow and superficial.”

Fact
Linda is sharing her expectation of how a prophet should react. She must realize that “conversions are not all alike.” Saul’s experience of seeing Christ in vision was simply, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” It does not say that he wept and bemoaned his lack of faith while in vision. That came after his vision.

God says:

Evangelism, pp. 287-288

Conversions are not all alike. Jesus impresses the heart, and the sinner is born again to new life. Often souls have been drawn to Christ when there was no violent conviction, no soul rending, no remorseful terrors. They looked upon an uplifted Saviour; they lived. They saw the soul's need; they saw the Saviour's sufficiency and His claims; they heard His voice saying, "Follow Me," and they rose up and followed Him. . . .

Those men who calculate just how religious exercises should be conducted, and are very precise and methodical in diffusing the light and grace that they seem to have, simply do not have much of the Holy Spirit.

The Desire of Ages, p. 172

The wind is heard among the branches of the trees, rustling the leaves and flowers; yet it is invisible, and no man knows whence it comes or whither it goes. So with the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart. It can no more be explained than can the movements of the wind. A person may not be able to tell the exact time or place, or to trace all the circumstances in the process of conversion; but this does not prove him to be unconverted. By an agency as unseen as the wind, Christ is constantly working upon the heart. Little by little, perhaps unconsciously to the receiver, impressions are made that tend to draw the soul to Christ. These may be received through meditating upon Him, through reading the Scriptures, or through hearing the word from the living preacher. Suddenly, as the Spirit comes with more direct appeal, the soul gladly surrenders itself to Jesus. By many this is called sudden conversion; but it is the result of long wooing by the Spirit of God,--a patient, protracted process.

Material aspects of heaven

John 14:2

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

Revelation 21:21

And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.

Isaiah 65:25

The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.

James 1:12

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

God is the One who revealed those material aspects of heaven. It was His way of showing His great love to us. Is Linda still willing to call it “shallow and superficial”?

You can also read Ellen White’s first vision in Early Writings, pp. 13-19, where she describes material aspects of heaven, and you will not find any mention of her recalling her past sins, feeling unworthy or falling on her face. As there is a time to laugh or cry, there is a time to show feeling unworthy (as Ernie was shown later in his dreams) and there is a time to walk beside Jesus.

Conclusion
Again, this is not a biblical test of a prophet. It is what Linda made up to convince herself and others, without study, that Ernie’s conversion was not genuine and to discount the dreams.

Conversion impossible during sleep?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“And as I questioned you further about your conversion, you stated that you woke up converted, in love with Jesus. Please tell me, how does one become converted in his sleep? This is an absolute impossibility!”

Fact
Ernie never stated that he woke up converted. Becky had stated to Linda: “So that was the time of his true conversion, when he saw the love of Jesus in His eyes.” Becky was trying to say that Ernie’s conversion became evident in his life after the dream of heaven where he saw the love of Jesus. A dream like that should change anyone’s life.

God says:

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 228

Paul told the Thessalonian Jews of his former zeal for the ceremonial law and of his wonderful experience at the gate of Damascus. Before his conversion he had been confident in a hereditary piety, a false hope. His faith had not been anchored in Christ; he had trusted instead in forms and ceremonies. His zeal for the law had been disconnected from faith in Christ and was of no avail. While boasting that he was blameless in the performance of the deeds of the law, he had refused the One who made the law of value.

But at the time of his conversion all had been changed. Jesus of Nazareth, whom he had been persecuting in the person of His saints, appeared before him as the promised Messiah. The persecutor saw Him as the Son of God, the one who had come to the earth in fulfillment of the prophecies and who in His life had met every specification of the Sacred Writings.

Ibid., p. 436

Paul related the story of his conversion from stubborn unbelief to faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the world's Redeemer. He described the heavenly vision that at first had filled him with unspeakable terror, but afterward proved to be a source of the greatest consolation--a revelation of divine glory, in the midst of which sat enthroned He whom he had despised and hated, whose followers he was even then seeking to destroy. From that hour Paul had been a new man, a sincere and fervent believer in Jesus, made such by transforming mercy.

1 Samuel 10:5-6, 9

After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy: [6] And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man. . . . [9] And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day.

Conclusion
Linda reminds us of Ananias in this situation: “Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel.” Acts 9:13-15.

If God could convert Saul after his vision, is it any harder to convert Ernie after his dream? This teaches us a number of important lessons:

1. Never limit what God can do.
2. God can choose the worst sinner to become His “chosen vessel.”
3. Because God knows the beginning to the end, He chooses people because He knows what they can become.
   

Supernatural beings

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Another concern was the supernatural beings that kept appearing to you, that you could see only out of the corner of you eye, as you were being pressured to tell the dream during the two weeks following the dream. That’s downright spooky. That sounds like the works of the angels of darkness, not of pure, holy, heavenly beings.

“Here is how you described it: ‘For two weeks I did not tell the next part of the dream. For two weeks I did not share the most important part of this dream. For two weeks I kept it secret, but for two weeks I would, still knowing that I was sitting at home, I wasn’t going out anywhere, I would all of the sudden see things walk around out of the corner of my eye, and I’d look and there wasn’t anybody there. But at the same time I would hear a voice say, “You need to share the end of the dream.” I’d go to sleep at night, and I’d fall asleep, only to be wakened up later, and I’d hear a voice say, “You need to share the rest of the dream.” This went on for two weeks…’ ”

Fact
What Ernie saw out of the corner of his eye was a quick flash of bright white light. He was not afraid and it was not spooky to him, because he knew it was an angel of the Lord encouraging him to share the end of the dream called, “A View of Heaven.”

God says:

My Life Today, p. 94

Could our spiritual vision be quickened, we should see souls bowed under oppression and burdened with grief, pressed as a cart beneath sheaves, and ready to die in discouragement. We should see angels flying swiftly to aid these tempted ones, who are standing as on the brink of a precipice. The angels from heaven force back the hosts of evil that encompass these souls, and guide them to plant their feet on the sure foundation. The battles waging between the two armies are as real as those fought by the armies of this world, and on the issue of the spiritual conflict eternal destinies depend.

The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 153-154

It is the work of the angels to come close to the tried, the suffering, the tempted. They labor untiringly in behalf of those for whom Christ died. When sinners are led to give themselves to the Saviour, angels bear the tidings heavenward, and there is great rejoicing among the heavenly host. "Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance." Luke 15:7. A report is borne to heaven of every successful effort on our part to dispel the darkness and to spread abroad the knowledge of Christ. As the deed is recounted before the Father, joy thrills through all the heavenly host.

Jeremiah 23:28

The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD.

The Great Controversy (1911), p. 330

And now the duty of making known to others what he [William Miller] believed to be so clearly taught in the Scriptures, urged itself with new force upon him. "When I was about my business," he said, "it was continually ringing in my ears, 'Go and tell the world of their danger.' This text was constantly occurring to me: 'When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul." Ezekiel 33:8, 9. I felt that if the wicked could be effectually warned, multitudes of them would repent; and that if they were not warned, their blood might be required at my hand."--Bliss, page 92.

Conclusion
God has many ways to show us what He wants us to see or do. Ernie is grateful for God’s instruction to share the rest of the dream, because not only has his life changed but many others. God wanted Ernie to share his dreams just as He wanted William Miller to tell everyone what he had learned from the Scriptures. Ernie is thankful that he did not make the same mistake as Hazen Foss, who became a lost man when he refused to share his vision from God. If God sent Linda a dream, would she have shared it?

Not an SDA for over 50 years?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“There were a few other issues that were uncovered that made me continue to question your calling. One of these was the fact that you and Becky revealed to me Sunday morning after our meeting that you had become discouraged with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and had left it for a while, and joined the Seventh-day Adventist Reform movement. You were involved with them for several years, and then found that they had problems too, so you came back to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. When you state on your web site that: ‘I am a Seventh-Day Adventist Christian of over 50 years, an ordained elder for over 25 years and have served as a lay pastor’ that gives the impression of a faithful, godly, loyal Seventh-day Adventist, does it not? When the truth is known of your lack of conversion, failure to follow the health reform, and your actually leaving the church for a while, this places the matter in an entirely different light.”

Fact
Because of the misunderstandings and accusations, if Ernie put a description of himself on his website now, it would say the following:

I was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for over 50 years, an ordained elder (not an ordained pastor) for over 25 years and filled in as a “lay” pastor for about a year while the members searched for a replacement pastor. I was in a Laodicean condition, much like the majority of the Church members.

Then on the morning of December 10, God answered my urgent, silent prayer from the night before, as well as Becky’s silent prayers, by sending me a dream of heaven where Jesus walked and talked with me, showed me the great love in His eyes, and healed me of my acute illness. That was the day my life and Becky’s changed.

No, we are not perfect…yet. However, we know that it is possible with God’s help as we respond to His mercy and love. We have desired to be among the 144,000 since our youth and have never lost that desire. Though we stumbled and fell many times, we see the evidence that God has not forsaken us. We choose now to forget our past sins as God wants others to do. Place your focus on God and His messages, not the messenger. Our desire is to share God’s great love and truth with the world and pray that what God has done for us, He will do for others. We pray that He can continue to use us and that we will remain humble in His service to His glory, not ours. Please join us in this battle.

The world and God’s Church are on the verge of momentous events. Jesus is coming! Still watching for that small black cloud…Ernie & Becky

Early Writings, pp. 15-16

Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had appeared, about half as large as a man's hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man. We all in solemn silence gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer and became lighter, glorious, and still more glorious, till it was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud, while around it were ten thousand angels, singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man.

Revelation 14:12

Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 154

The principalities and powers of heaven are watching the warfare which, under apparently discouraging circumstances, God's servants are carrying on. New conquests are being achieved, new honors won, as the Christians, rallying round the banner of their Redeemer, go forth to fight the good fight of faith. All the heavenly angels are at the service of the humble, believing people of God; and as the Lord's army of workers here below sing their songs of praise, the choir above join with them in ascribing praise to God and to His Son.

When Ernie and Becky joined the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement for several years, they never gave up the historic doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. They are saddened and distraught, as through the years they have seen their beloved Church fall deeper into apostasy. They long for the day when God purifies the last-day church and ask that you join them in prayer toward that end.

Conclusion
Being a Seventh-day Adventist is more than having your name on the church books. It entails a settling into the present truth that Adventism teaches. Sadly, faithful Seventh-day Adventist Church members are disfellowshipped, because of the stand they take against the apostasy within the Church. Does this mean they are no longer Seventh-day Adventists? Certainly not. Linda makes it appear that Ernie and Becky left the truth, because they joined the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement for a time. This accusation is far from the truth.

Loss of employment

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Another fact that surfaced unexpectedly was that you were actually fired from the job that you had before December 2006, and it was explained that you were confrontational and not able to get along personally with your co-workers and associates. Your testimony that you gave at our home was stated in such a way as to lead one to believe that it was your ill health that caused your loss of employment. Again, this brings up issues of integrity.”

Fact
To set the record straight, Ernie's employer did not fire Ernie from his job. Ernie resigned. His ill health was a factor in his resignation. Becky can attest to him resigning, because she worked for Human Resources at the time for the same employer and saw his personnel file, which stated that He was eligible for rehire. The unethical practices they saw affected both Ernie and Becky while employed at that Seventh-day Adventist institution. When Ernie voiced his opinions, his employer saw Ernie as being confrontational. They both were disappointed when the institution did nothing to correct the problems. Becky later resigned from her employment as the Lord instructed, and she and Ernie both are overjoyed, because now they have the Greatest Employer in the universe! It is truly the answer to many private prayers.

God says:

The Desire of Ages, p. 387

But the leaders of the people were offended, "and they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that He saith, I came down from heaven?" They tried to arouse prejudice by referring scornfully to the lowly origin of Jesus. They contemptuously alluded to His life as a Galilean laborer, and to His family as being poor and lowly. The claims of this uneducated carpenter, they said, were unworthy of their attention. And on account of His mysterious birth they insinuated that He was of doubtful parentage, thus representing the human circumstances of His birth as a blot upon His history.

Conclusion
Again, Linda rushed to a conclusion before having all the facts. How many people has she unfavorably influenced because she shared her half-truths or blatantly false statements?

Ernie a hypocrite?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Ernie, I have another question. According to your own testimony, on December 9, 2006, you were a pew-warming, workaholic, unconverted Laodicean. If you look at the definition of the word hypocrite, it also seems to apply. (definition of a hypocrite is: “a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion; a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings.”) You were a church elder, and yet you stated that you did not know Jesus.”

Fact
Ernie freely admits that he was a hypocrite. However, the fact that Ernie responded to God and has become a changed man proves that he is no longer a hypocrite. It is a sad fact that the Church is full of hypocrites. Just read the following message to the Laodicean church.

God says:

Revelation 3:14-22

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

An appropriate testimony is included here from a church elder.

Ernie,

I was fortunate to be able to be encouraged by your dreams. It was shared with me by a church Brother who had gotten it from someone else. I tell you, when I started reading it at first, I was afraid and a bit scared, I guess because I know I’m a sinner. As I read on, my heart was filled with encouragement and hope. My eyes often times welled up with tears because the scenes of heaven was so very clear and beautiful. I’m also an Elder in the church, but often times I know I’m not what the Lord wants me to be. I long to be so close to Him that I can hear Him talk to me daily; I long to be able to bring others to Him like He would want me to.

Most of all, I want me and my family and friends to go to heaven and live with Him. Thank you so much for sharing. This has further helped me to realize that I need not be afraid, all I need to do is trust and believe in Him.

Pray for me please as I pray for you. God bless!

Conclusion
What a shame that Linda and others continue to call Ernie a hypocrite even though he has repented and continues to share the dreams that God asks him to share.

First two dreams

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“So, in this condition, you had 2 dreams in the spring of 2005. You said that you ‘thought nothing of them’ other than that they were interesting. They obviously made little impact on your lifestyle or spiritual commitment. Then, you start having more dreams, had a ‘conversion’ experience in your sleep, and put up a web site. Now, these first two dreams from 2005 are elevated right along with your other dreams to become God’s last day message for His people, part of the message we are commanded to believe as we bow before the being professing to be Jesus who gave them? How do you explain that?”

Fact
We do not always perceive the significance of an event at the time. God continued to knock at the door of Ernie’s heart until he opened it. Some will open the door right away; for other’s it may take a lifetime. Unfortunately, the majority will never open the door. If Linda had searched God’s Word for the answer, she would have found it.

God says:

Job 33:14-15

For God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed.

Conclusion
We do not often understand the importance of something until the Holy Spirit reveals it to us later. Ellen White saw events in visions that she did not recall until the time when God wanted people to know what His messenger saw. Just because Ernie never recognized the divine origin of his first two dreams does not mean they were not from heaven. Before Ellen White had her first vision, which opened up the way for her ministry, she had two dreams. (See Life Sketches, chapter 4.) Ellen White had the first dream while she was in a dreadful state of depression and it left her feeling worse. However, the next dream was a comfort to her. At that time, she did not realize the full importance of those dreams. If we use Linda’s reasoning, we would question the origin of those first two dreams, especially considering her state of mind, believing she would be lost because she would not pray in prayer meetings. Why should we treat Ernie differently? We cannot always understand God’s ways.

Consulting godly men

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“All of these things continued to add up, along with the concerns in the dreams themselves. Right at the beginning, we asked you if you had counseled with godly men regarding the source of these dreams, and if you were willing to be placed under close scrutiny. You had the attitude that, since these dreams were from God Himself, you didn’t need to ask anyone permission, or to seek anyone’s counsel. This is not how God operates in His church. He is the head, we are all part of the body. Not one part is to be exalted to the point of not needing to be examined, and confirmed by the rest of the body.”

Fact
Ernie still abides by his answer given in Linda’s statement. Where does the Bible tell us a prophet must first consult with godly men before they accept and publish their message? There is not a command or example, for it never happened. The Board of For My People Ministry gives Ernie godly counsel, as well as other individuals who provide Ernie with advice and counsel whether in person or through phone calls and emails.

God says:

Psalm 12:1

Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

John 1:19-25

And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

Conflict and Courage, p. 272

John the Baptist in his desert life was taught of God. He studied the revelations of God in nature. Under the guiding of the divine Spirit, he studied the scrolls of the prophets. By day and by night, Christ was his study, his meditation, until mind and heart and soul were filled with the glorious vision. He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was lost sight of. He beheld the majesty of holiness, and knew himself to be inefficient and unworthy. It was God's message that he was to declare. It was in God's power and His righteousness that he was to stand. He was ready to go forth as Heaven's messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine. . . .

The Voice in Speech and Song, p. 357

The voice of John was lifted up like a trumpet. His commission was, "Show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." Isa. 58:1. He had obtained no human scholarship. God and nature had been his teachers. But one was needed to prepare the way before Christ who was bold enough to make his voice heard like the prophets of old, summoning the degenerate nation to repentance.

The Desire of Ages, p. 275

The Pharisees were silenced for the time, but only became more determined in their enmity. They next sought out the disciples of John the Baptist, and tried to set them against the Saviour. These Pharisees had not accepted the mission of the Baptist. They had pointed in scorn to his abstemious life, his simple habits, his coarse garments, and had declared him a fanatic. Because he denounced their hypocrisy, they had resisted his words, and had tried to stir up the people against him. The Spirit of God had moved upon the hearts of these scorners, convicting them of sin; but they had rejected the counsel of God, and had declared that John was possessed of a devil.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 596

I viewed God's people as partaking of the spirit of the world, imitating its fashions, and getting above the simplicity of our faith. It seemed that the church at Battle Creek were backsliding from God, and it was impossible to arouse their sensibilities. The testimonies given me of God had the least influence and were the least heeded in Battle Creek of any part of the field. I trembled for the cause of God. I knew that the Lord had not forsaken His people, but that their sins and iniquities had separated them from God. At Battle Creek is the great heart of the work. Every pulsation is felt by the members of the body all over the field. If this great heart is in health, a vital circulation will be felt all through the body of Sabbathkeepers. If the heart is diseased, the languishing condition of every branch of the work will attest the fact.

My interest is in this work; my life is interwoven with it. When Zion prospers, I am happy; if she languishes, I am sad, desponding, discouraged. I saw that God's people were in an alarming condition, and His favor was being removed from them. I pondered upon this sad picture day and night, and pleaded in bitter anguish: "O Lord, give not Thine heritage to reproach. Let not the heathen say, Where is their God?" I felt that I was cut loose from everyone at the head of the work and was virtually standing alone. I dared not trust anyone.

Summation
John the Baptist did not receive his education from men, and he did not request permission from the leadership to prepare the way for Christ. At times, Ellen White could not trust the Church leadership. Why should Ernie’s situation be different? He knew from the beginning that it would do no good to counsel first or get permission before sharing the heavenly messages. However, he does receive counsel from his ministry’s Board as well as others.

Conclusion
Ernie has proven that he does in fact listen to counsel from others. When God first called Ernie, he had an incorrect understanding of the 144,000. It was only by listening to the counsel of others that he accepted the truth on this subject. This shows that Ernie does not consider himself to be above anyone else.

If John the Baptist had consulted with the spiritual leaders of his time before preaching the message God had given him, would they have given him permission? They definitely would not. They rejected his mission and accused him of being possessed with a devil.

Ellen White does recommend we first counsel with our brethren, but these references are never concerning a prophet who God instructed to give a message. Some of the situations that necessitate this include:

1. Situations where individuals “strike out upon some new light” (The Signs of the Times, October 23, 1879).
2. Irresponsible men who seek to set up institutions (like sanitariums) “without taking counsel with their brethren” (Pamphlets, p. 21).
3. When workers “present new theories independent of the body” (Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, p. 125).
4. Brethren in responsible positions “should not walk in their own ideas, but counsel together” (Manuscript Releases, Vol. 2, pp. 333-334).
   

So few accept the dreams

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“The fact that so few significant Bible students accepted the dreams was another major cause for concern.

“As you left our home, we hugged and all expressed our enjoyment of our time together. It was an exciting and confusing time. We remember you stating that Brian and I, along with a couple in Ohio, the web master, and a pastor in Ohio were your main supporters. While that made us feel special, it also made us wonder why so few were accepting the dreams.”

Fact
The few that Linda mentioned were the main supporters at the time (early on in the ministry), but they were not the only supporters. However, the majority have always rejected God’s messages.

God says:

The Signs of the Times, February 7, 1878

Jesus had said to the Pharisees: "This is your condemnation, that light has come into the world; and men choose darkness rather than light." In every age of the world, the majority have rejected the light that has shone forth to illuminate the darkness of error. According to the unbelief and prejudice with which men, in spite of convincing evidence, oppose the truth, is the intensity of their hatred of those who cherish it. In proportion to the light given will be the condemnation of those who reject it.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 99

It is our duty to inquire the cause of this terrible darkness, that we may shun the course by which men have brought upon themselves so great delusion. God has given the world an opportunity to learn and to obey His will. He has given them, in His word, the light of truth; He has sent them warning, counsel, and admonition; but few will obey His voice. Like the Jewish nation, the majority, even of professed Christians, pride themselves on their superior advantages, but make no returns to God for these great blessings. In infinite mercy a last warning message has been sent to the world, announcing that Christ is at the door and calling attention to God's broken law. But as the antediluvians rejected with scorn the warning of Noah, so will the pleasure lovers of today reject the message of God's faithful servants. The world pursues its unvarying round, absorbed as ever in its business and its pleasures, while the wrath of God is about to be visited on the transgressors of His law.

Redemption Or The First Advent Of Christ With His Life And Ministry, p. 57

Christ had come first to his own favored people, to proclaim the gracious words of salvation in their ears; but they refused to listen to his words. That which stirred their malice was the meekness and plainness with which he had explained the words of the prophets concerning himself. Here was an opportunity for them to receive the great blessing which follows the reception of Christ. But they were blinded by Satan, and, in their fanatical zeal, could discover nothing in Christ, but simply the son of a carpenter. At a later period he came to Nazareth for the last time. He would give the people he loved, and whom his heart yearned to bless and save, an opportunity to redeem their past cruel conduct, and violence, toward him. The fame of his miracles, and wisdom, and power, had spread everywhere, and many of the people of Nazareth had been witnesses of his wonderful miracles. He had silenced and cast out demons, healed the sick, given sight to the blind, restored hearing to the deaf, and raised the dead to life. These evidences had been witnessed by thousands. He stood before his people in his own city, after they had had opportunity to reflect and repent of their abuse of him when he first made the public announcement that he was the Messiah. But they were no more ready to receive him, even then, than at first. They had committed themselves at the first to reject and insult him, and they retained their prejudices, and would not receive evidence, and be convinced that he was the Coming One, the Redeemer of Israel; for if they should then acknowledge him, they would condemn themselves. He came to his own nation and people, but they received him not; and ever after, their pride, which they had not controlled, was too great to accept of evidence, and admit the power of God in the mighty works performed by Christ. They rejected Christ as their Saviour, and after they had set their hearts in rebellion against him, it was not so easy for them to change their course. Notwithstanding all the mighty works they saw him do, they were too proud and self-exalted to yield their rebellious feelings. Every manifestation of his divine character increased the hatred and jealousy of the Jews. They were not content to turn from him themselves, but they sought to hinder all they could from listening to his teachings, or witnessing his miracles. The majority rejected him. They despised his humble appearance. They denied his testimony. They loved the praise of men, and the grandeur of the world. In their estimation of these things, they thought their judgment perfect, even as the judgment of God.

Conclusion
How many “Bible students” accepted Jesus when He ministered on earth? What about Noah? He gave God’s message for 120 years, and only eight people went onboard the ark. How about Jeremiah, Isaiah, Jonah, and other prophets? Where were all the “Bible students” who supported their ministries? Linda Kirk’s reasoning falls far short of the biblical standard.

Dreams took preeminence?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“How did the dreams affect me personally? Did they drive me to the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. Well, in a certain sense they did. We did study a lot on end time events during our time of belief in the dreams. But the final result was that the dreams took preeminence in our thoughts. Since they were ‘new light,’ they added to and superceded what we had previously believed. I found myself funneling spiritual thoughts through the nuances found in the dreams. It actually felt like I was becoming acquainted with a ‘new’ God, because I’d think about things in the dream much more than scripture or the Spirit of Prophecy. They made much more exciting reading. That should have clued me in!”

Fact
The dreams are not new light, but “old light in new settings.”

God says:

Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 401

The question has been asked me, "Do you think that the Lord has any more light for us as a people?" I answer that He has light that is new to us, and yet it is precious old light that is to shine forth from the Word of truth. We have only the glimmerings of the rays of the light that is yet to come to us. We are not making the most of the light which the Lord has already given us, and thus we fail to receive the increased light; we do not walk in light already shed upon us.

Sermons and Talks, Vol. 1, p. 105

We read in the following verse, verse 17, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." What made them think that? It was because, notwithstanding they had had Christ represented in the typical offerings and sacrifices, they could not get it out of their minds that it was the law, the law, the law that they must dwell upon as their entrance into heaven. And here Christ comes in with His lesson, not to detract from the law, but to reveal to them the old light in new settings. He comes to reveal that light in the framework of the gospel, that they might understand in regard to this light that it was essential for them to have.

Christian Education, p. 80

The Bible has been placed in the background, while the sayings of great men, so-called, have been taken in its stead. May the Lord forgive us the slight we have put upon his word. Though inestimable treasures are in the Bible, and it is like a mine full of precious ore, it is not valued, it is not searched, and its riches are not discovered. Mercy and truth and love are valuable beyond our power to calculate; we cannot have too great a supply of these treasures, and it is in the word of God we find out how we may become possessors of these heavenly riches, and yet why is it that the word of God is uninteresting to many professed Christians? Is it because the word of God is not spirit and is not life? Has Jesus put upon us an uninteresting task, when he commands us to "search the Scriptures"? [John 5:39.] Jesus says, "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life." [John 6:63.] But spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and the reason of your lack of interest is that you lack the Spirit of God. When the heart is brought into harmony with the word, a new life will spring up within you, a new light will shine upon every line of the word, and it will become the voice of God to your soul. In this way you will take celestial observations, and know whither you are going, and be able to make the most of your privileges today.

Counsels for the Church, p. 92

The written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man's duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God's word, yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out; but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse. The Testimonies are not to belittle the word of God, but to exalt it and attract minds to it, that the beautiful simplicity of truth may impress all….

Brother J would confuse the mind by seeking to make it appear that the light God has given through the Testimonies is an addition to the Word of God, but in this he presents the matter in a false light. God has seen fit in this manner to bring the minds of His people to His word, to give them a clearer understanding of it. The word of God is sufficient to enlighten the most beclouded mind and may be understood by those who have any desire to understand it. But notwithstanding all this, some who profess to make the Word of God their study are found living in direct opposition to its plainest teachings. Then, to leave men and women without excuse, God gives plain and pointed testimonies, bringing them back to the word that they have neglected to follow. The word of God abounds in general principles for the formation of correct habits of living, and the testimonies, general and personal, have been calculated to call their attention more especially to these principles.

The Desire of Ages, p. 74

The atmosphere of hope and courage that surrounded Him made Him a blessing in every home. And often in the synagogue on the Sabbath day He was called upon to read the lesson from the prophets, and the hearts of the hearers thrilled as a new light shone out from the familiar words of the sacred text.

Christ Object Lessons, p. 130

When we eat Christ's flesh and drink His blood, the element of eternal life will be found in the ministry. There will not be a fund of stale, oft-repeated ideas. The tame, dull sermonizing will cease. The old truths will be presented, but they will be seen in a new light. There will be a new perception of truth, a clearness and a power that all will discern. Those who have the privilege of sitting under such a ministry will, if susceptible to the Holy Spirit's influence, feel the energizing power of a new life. The fire of God's love will be kindled within them. Their perceptive faculties will be quickened to discern the beauty and majesty of truth.

Gospel Workers, p. 297

Peter exhorts his brethren to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." [2 Peter 3:18.] Whenever the people of God are growing in grace, they will be constantly obtaining a clearer understanding of His word. They will discern new light and beauty in its sacred truths. This has been true in the history of the church in all ages, and thus it will continue to the end. But as real spiritual life declines, it has ever been the tendency to cease to advance in the knowledge of the truth.

Ibid., p. 390

We must not for a moment think that there is no more light, no more truth to be given us. We are in danger of becoming careless, by our indifference losing the sanctifying power of truth, and composing ourselves with the thought, “I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.” [Revelation 3:17.] While we must hold fast to the truths which we have already received, we must not look with suspicion upon any new light that God may send.

Summation
As the writings of Ellen White bring us back to the Word of God, so Ernie’s dreams also bring us back to the Word of God and to Ellen White’s writings.

Conclusion
Linda’s argument for this issue, one could also say about Ellen White’s writings. The detail that she gives certainly draws us closer to God, and in this sense, we become acquainted with a “new God.” In fact, this experience can happen just by reading the Bible if we let the Holy Spirit work upon our hearts. The fact that Ernie’s dreams draw people into a closer walk with Jesus is proof of their origin.

Dreams had supernatural pull

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I found the dreams to have a supernatural pull, like an addiction. I would check the web site frequently, with my heart pounding, hoping and praying that there would be a new dream. And when a new dream showed up, my excitement and interest in the dream was incredibly high. When I believed in the dreams, my emotional involvement wouldn’t let me read them objectively. Things that normally would have made me uncomfortable I was able to pass over because of my attachment to the whole experience. I found that my belief in these dreams removed my objectivity, because of an addictive power that overrides reason. I believe this is a supernatural phenomena used by the devil to trap people and keep them in a delusion”

Fact
For one who has recounted all the doubts she had concerning Ernie’s dreams, it is a wonder that Linda found herself “addicted” to the dreams.

God says:

John 10:27; 12:32; 14:23

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. [12:32] And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. [14:23] Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

The Desire of Ages, p. 339

The manifestation of supernatural power aroused the superstitions of the people, and excited their fears. Further calamities might follow from having this Stranger among them. They apprehended financial ruin, and determined to be freed from His presence.

Ibid., p. 459

Hardened as were their hearts, they were melted by His words. While He was speaking in the temple court, they had lingered near, to catch something that might be turned against Him. But as they listened, the purpose for which they had been sent was forgotten. They stood as men entranced. Christ revealed Himself to their souls. They saw that which priests and rulers would not see,--humanity flooded with the glory of divinity. They returned, so filled with this thought, so impressed by His words, that to the inquiry, "Why have ye not brought Him?" they could only reply, "Never man spake like this Man."

Ibid., p. 191

The woman had been filled with joy as she listened to Christ's words. The wonderful revelation was almost overpowering. Leaving her waterpot, she returned to the city, to carry the message to others. Jesus knew why she had gone. Leaving her waterpot spoke unmistakably as to the effect of His words. It was the earnest desire of her soul to obtain the living water; and she forgot her errand to the well, she forgot the Saviour's thirst, which she had purposed to supply. With heart overflowing with gladness, she hastened on her way, to impart to others the precious light she had received.

Ibid., pp. 365-366

He who taught the people the way to secure peace and happiness was just as thoughtful of their temporal necessities as of their spiritual need. The people were weary and faint. There were mothers with babes in their arms, and little children clinging to their skirts. Many had been standing for hours. They had been so intensely interested in Christ's words that they had not once thought of sitting down, and the crowd was so great that there was danger of their trampling on one another. Jesus would give them a chance to rest, and He bade them sit down.

Conclusion
The Word of God in the Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the dreams of Ernie should have a supernatural pull on us. When Jesus spoke while on earth, His words had an effect on people like no others. Even His enemies were affected. Should it be any different today?

Was Linda “almost persuaded” until Steve Wohlberg and others pulled her away from the dreams, even instilling a fear for the dreams?

The Desire of Ages, p. 489

The people gave credence to what the priests and Pharisees taught, in place of seeking to understand the word of God for themselves. They honored the priests and rulers instead of honoring God, and rejected the truth that they might keep their own traditions. Many had been impressed and almost persuaded; but they did not act upon their convictions, and were not reckoned on the side of Christ. Satan presented his temptations, until the light appeared as darkness. Thus many rejected the truth that would have proved the saving of the soul.

The Review and Herald, September 3, 1889

In the days of Christ, there were many who beheld his mighty works, listened to his divine instruction, were impressed, and almost persuaded; but they did not profit by their privileges, for confession was not made unto salvation. The impressions did not last because they did not act out their convictions, and those who had been almost persuaded, were not reckoned on the side of Christ. It is perilous to the soul to hesitate, question, and criticise divine light. Satan will present his temptations until the light will appear as darkness, and many will reject the very truth that would have proved the saving of their souls. Those who walk in its rays will find it growing brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.

Linda, being almost persuaded is not enough. Our prayer is that you can again receive the joy you once had as you read the messages in Ernie’s dreams from your Savior. Whatever it is that pulled you away from the dreams, whether it was fear, jealousy, pride, or just listening to others’ ideas, please take it to God in prayer and to His Word with an open mind and humble heart, that you may hear that still, small voice again calling you back to Jesus.

Feeling alone

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Something that surfaces in the dreams is your feeling of being discouraged, alone or persecuted. Reference is made to spears and arrows.”

Fact
All God’s prophets have felt discouraged, alone and persecuted. Even Jesus felt that way.

God says:

Jeremiah 15:16-18

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation. Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound incurable, which refuseth to be healed? wilt thou be altogether unto me as a liar, and as waters that fail?

Conflict and Courage, p. 279

Aside from the joy that John found in his mission, his life had been one of sorrow. His voice had been seldom heard except in the wilderness. His was a lonely lot.

Conflict and Courage, p. 216

If, under trying circumstances, men of spiritual power, pressed beyond measure, become discouraged and desponding, if at times they see nothing desirable in life, that they should choose it, this is nothing strange or new. Let all such remember that one of the mightiest of the prophets fled for his life before the rage of an infuriated woman.... Those who, while spending their life energies in self-sacrificing labor, are tempted to give way to despondency and distrust, may gather courage from the experience of Elijah.

Australian Union Conference Record, September 30, 1912

Last night after I had retired to rest a strange depression came over me, and for a long time I was unable to sleep.

Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years, Vol. 6, pp. 121-122

Ellen White recognized that her responsibility ended when she had done all in her skill and power to present God's messages with love, concern and appeal. But when they were not received, her heart was heavy. She recognized that the hidden forces of evil were in the fray, and at times she felt very much alone.

I am carrying a weight of great responsibility, and I scarcely venture to speak of the weight that oppresses my soul, for there is not one of those connected with me that can possibly understand the anguish of my heart. I feel that I am alone, alone as far as any soul's being able to understand is concerned. . . .

I am instructed that the less I have to draw upon human engaged in the work in helping me, even in my own house, the better. It is wise not to trust in any mortal. I must move forward, not expecting they will understand. I must work alone, alone.

Then a heavenly being spoke to her:
"Who can stand by you in the hour of fierce conflict, when in combat with the powers of darkness, with Satan and his host of invisible allies? You will, as far as human help is concerned, remain alone. The Lord alone understands. In Him you may trust. Commit the keeping of your soul to Him who has given your special work to you.

The Retirement Years, p. 208

AT HOME DEVOTING HERSELF TO WRITING DURING EARLY MONTHS OF 1907. IN OAKLAND FEB. 15-18; UNITED WITH ELDER AND MRS. HASKELL IN THE WORK THERE; HAD TO BEAR PLAIN TESTIMONY AND MEET DIFFICULT SITUATION. IN MARCH WROTE OF THE HEAVY WEIGHT OF RESPONSIBILITY SHE WAS BEARING THAT NO ONE COULD UNDERSTAND. FELT ALONE.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, p. 163

I then saw a company pressing through the crowd with their eyes intently fixed upon the heavenly crown. As they earnestly urged their way through the disorderly crowd, angels attended them, and made room for them to advance. As they neared the heavenly crown, the light emanating from it shone upon them and around them, dispelling their darkness, and growing clearer and brighter, until they seemed to be transformed, and resembled the angels. They cast not one lingering look upon the earthly crown. Those who were in pursuit of the earthly, mocked them, and threw black balls after them. These did them no injury while their eyes were fixed upon the heavenly crown, but those who turned their attention to the black balls were stained with them.

The Desire of Ages, p. 92

Yet through childhood, youth, and manhood, Jesus walked alone. In His purity and His faithfulness, He trod the wine press alone, and of the people there was none with Him. He carried the awful weight of responsibility for the salvation of men. He knew that unless there was a decided change in the principles and purposes of the human race, all would be lost. This was the burden of His soul, and none could appreciate the weight that rested upon Him. Filled with intense purpose, He carried out the design of His life that He Himself should be the light of men.

Ibid., p. 111

He who had come to break the power of Satan would be denounced as Beelzebub. No one upon earth had understood Him, and during His ministry He must still walk alone. Throughout His life His mother and His brothers did not comprehend His mission. Even His disciples did not understand Him. He had dwelt in eternal light, as one with God, but His life on earth must be spent in solitude.

The Review and Herald, July 12, 1892

And Peter said, Man, I am not. And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him; for he is a Galilean." It was then that with cursing and swearing, Peter denied his Lord. How this cut to the heart of Jesus! There was the Man of sorrows, surrounded by his enemies, accused by false witnesses, buffeted and insulted by the mob, but the denial of Peter cut deeper than all the mockings of his foes.

Conclusion
To feel discouraged and alone is not a sin. Jeremiah, Elijah, John the Baptist, Ellen White and many other prophets felt that way. Even Jesus experienced the pain of feeling alone. Did God reject them because they felt that way? Surely not. Should we reject Ernie for feeling the same way? No prophet would have felt that way, if people had accepted their messages. Sadly, history shows that the majority of people choose to reject God’s prophets. Jesus said: “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” Matthew 5:12.

Constant affirmation

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“You seem to be receiving constant affirmation and special tokens throughout your dreams. This focus on emotion, and coddling seems to be encouraging the opportunity for pride and self-exaltation. Would this tend to increase your humility? Would not Christ be concerned lest you be puffed up with pride at your high, exalted position?”

Fact
God does express His love to His children in a way that He deems necessary.

God says:

Daniel 9:23; 10:11, 19

At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision. [10:11] And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. [10:19] And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.

Numbers 12:6-8

And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream. My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 2, p. 1034

Elijah prays, Be it known this day that thou art the God of Israel. The honor of God is to be exalted as supreme, but the prophet asks further that his mission also may be confirmed.

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 286

The apostle Paul, in his labors at Ephesus, was given special tokens of divine favor. The power of God accompanied his efforts, and many were healed of physical maladies. "God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: so that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them." These manifestations of supernatural power were far more potent than had ever before been witnessed in Ephesus, and were of such a character that they could not be imitated by the skill of the juggler or the enchantments of the sorcerer.

Ibid., p. 54

It is true that in the time of the end, when God's work in the earth is closing, the earnest efforts put forth by consecrated believers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit are to be accompanied by special tokens of divine favor.

Selected Messages, Book 3, p. 369

In the future we shall have special tokens of the influence of the Spirit of God--especially at times when our enemies are the strongest against us. The time will come when we shall see some strange things; but just in what way--whether similar to some of the experiences of the disciples after they received the Holy Spirit following the ascension of Christ--I cannot say.

The Signs of the Times, January 12, 1882

Our gracious Redeemer looked down the stream of time, and beheld the perils that would in the last days surround his chosen. For our encouragement he declares, in the words of the prophet Malachi: "Then they that feared the Lord speak often one to another; and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him."

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 395

He who has appointed "to every man his work," according to his ability, will never let the faithful performance of duty go unrewarded. Every act of loyalty and faith will be crowned with special tokens of God's favor and approbation. To every worker is given the promise: "He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."

Webster’s 1828 Dictionary says:

Loma Linda Messages, p. 574

I thank the Lord that He encouraged me to walk by faith, and I pray that He will help you to show others their privilege in this matter.

Summation
God does pour out special tokens and approbation on His people—Daniel, Moses, Elijah, Paul, and Ellen White are just some, as well as others in the last days.

Conclusion
What Linda sees as flattery in Ernie’s dreams is actually God’s way of not only showing His love but also His encouragement for Ernie to keep going in spite of opposition such as hers. Has Linda ever thought what it would be like if she had to share similar dreams? Would Linda assume that Paul should not have been healing people, because it would make him proud as people flocked to him?

Dreams confusing?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“There are many confusing things in the dreams themselves, that would leave the readers wondering how they are supposed to respond. A few that come to mind are:

Watch, As I am Coming: ‘Smiling again the angel explains, “Because you do not understand, you know. If you were to know, you would not understand. All of heaven knows, as well as all of earth, whom God has chosen.” ’ This is very confusing!”

Fact
We may not understand everything in the Bible either. Does that mean we do away with it? God forbid. Why should it be any different with Ernie’s dreams? However, God will help us understand what is important for our salvation, if we ask for spiritual discernment.

God says:

John 9:39-41

And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

1 Corinthians 1:27; 2:14

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.

[2:14] But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

2 Peter 3:16

As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

John 6:59-60

These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

The Desire of Ages, p. 390

The unbelieving Jews refused to see any except the most literal meaning in the Saviour's words. By the ritual law they were forbidden to taste blood, and they now construed Christ's language into a sacrilegious speech, and disputed over it among themselves. Many even of the disciples said, "This is an hard saying; who can hear it?"

Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 187

There are in the Scriptures some things which are hard to be understood, and which, according to the language of Peter, the unlearned and unstable wrest unto their own destruction. We may not, in this life, be able to explain the meaning of every passage of Scripture; but there are no vital points to practical truth that will be clouded in mystery.

Conclusion
Confusing elements in Ernie’s dreams are not proof that they are from Satan. Much of what Jesus spoke was confusing to the Jews because they did not understand the truth. Because of this, they believed it was proof He was not the Messiah. We can see that Linda has done the same in not understanding Ernie’s dreams.

Counsel on music

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“A View of Heaven Dream: ‘The two of us walk and talk together for quite some time. One of the things we talked about was how beautiful the music was that I heard in heaven. I mentioned that it was unlike anything I had ever heard in our worship services on Earth. I asked Him if He enjoys the music and worship services we have. He responded, “That is just it. They are your worship services not mine. He said that some of the music we have is inspired not by Himself, the Father or the Holy Spirit but by a whole different spirit.’

This paragraph brings up more questions than answers. Does Jesus not like any of our music? If He does like some, what kind does He like? When the being says in the dream, ‘They are your worship services not mine,’ what is meant by that? Are all our worship services displeasing to Him? How do we know when we go into a church on Sabbath if the worship service is displeasing to Him? Should we even go to church if the worship services are not Jesus’? I find this leaves message leaves me totally confused. While we can know some music is not spiritual music because it is based on worldly principles, this “message from Jesus” does [not] provide anything that can be helpful to us in knowing how to worship Jesus in a way that is pleasing to Him.”

Fact
Linda failed to include in her letter the rest of the details from Ernie’s dream regarding music and worship. If Linda had prayed for discernment, read the context of Ernie’s dream regarding music and compared it with the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, she would have received the answers to her questions. The following quotations provide a good foundation on the subject of worship and music.

God says:

2 Chronicles 5:13

It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD.

Evangelism, p. 508

Those who make singing a part of divine worship should select hymns with music appropriate to the occasion, not funeral notes, but cheerful, yet solemn melodies. The voice can and should be modulated, softened, and subdued.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 492

The melody of song, poured forth from many hearts in clear, distinct utterance, is one of God's instrumentalities in the work of saving souls. All the service should be conducted with solemnity and awe, as if in the visible presence of the Master of assemblies.

Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 97

The art of sacred melody was diligently cultivated. No frivolous waltz was heard, nor flippant song that should extol man and divert the attention from God; but sacred, solemn psalms of praise to the Creator, exalting His name and recounting His wondrous works. Thus music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that which was pure and noble and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion and gratitude to God.

Selected Messages, Book 2, pp. 36, 38

A bedlam of noise shocks the senses and perverts that which if conducted aright might be a blessing. The powers of satanic agencies blend with the din and noise to have a carnival, and this is termed the Holy Spirit's working. . . . Those things which have been in the past will be in the future. Satan will make music a snare by the way in which it is conducted.

Ernie’s dream says:

A View of Heaven, December 10, 2006

Pertaining to the style of music in our worship services, Jesus explained that what we call Christian rock and praise music is an abomination to Himself and the Father. He explained that we begin our worship services asking for the Holy Spirit to come. Why do we believe that they would be there in something that God finds an abomination. He explained that praise music is nothing more than repetition, a carefully designed instrument of worship by Satan himself.

How wrong is it for us to bring the world’s popular type of music into our body temple? How much worse is it for us to bring it into God's holy temple?

Conclusion
When read in context, there is nothing confusing in Ernie’s dream about the worship services Jesus likes. It clearly reveals that “Christian” rock and praise music (the repetitious, popular type) are an abomination to Jesus. Critics like Linda also find it easier to quote the Bible or Spirit of Prophecy out of context to support their ideas. The reader can easily see that there should be no confusion with what God has instructed regarding music.

Ernie placed above us?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“At our meeting, we remember someone asking you what kind of music you listened to, and you responded, I really don’t like to listen to any music, because I’ve heard heavenly music, so any earthly music is not appealing to me. This is certainly not helpful to the rest of us. It tends to place you above us.”

Fact
Ernie’s dream says: “How wrong is it for us to bring the world’s popular type of music into our body temple? How much worse is it for us to bring it into God's holy temple?” In other words, just as we are not to listen to the world’s popular type of music in our worship services, we should also not listen to it the rest of the week. Would Linda place Ellen White above us because of what she said in the following quotes?

God says:

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 146

I have been shown the order, the perfect order, of heaven, and have been enraptured as I listened to the perfect music there. After coming out of vision, the singing here has sounded very harsh and discordant. I have seen companies of angels, who stood in a hollow square, everyone having a harp of gold. At the end of the harp was an instrument to turn to set the harp or change the tunes. Their fingers did not sweep over the strings carelessly, but they touched different strings to produce different sounds. There is one angel who always leads, who first touches the harp and strikes the note, then all join in the rich, perfect music of heaven. It cannot be described. It is melody, heavenly, divine, while from every countenance beams the image of Jesus, shining with glory unspeakable.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, p. 98

I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, "You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God."

Early Writings, pp. 19-20

I saw the fruit of the tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, pomegranates, grapes, and many other kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, "Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land go back to earth no more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the tree of life and drink of the water of the fountain." And He said, "You must go back to the earth again and relate to others what I have revealed to you." Then an angel bore me gently down to this dark world. Sometimes I think I can stay here no longer; all things of earth look so dreary. I feel very lonely here, for I have seen a better land. Oh, that I had wings like a dove, then would I fly away and be at rest!

After I came out of vision, everything looked changed; a gloom was spread over all that I beheld. Oh, how dark this world looked to me. I wept when I found myself here, and felt homesick. I had seen a better world, and it had spoiled this for me.

Conclusion
After receiving her visions, Ellen White had no desire to remain in this dark, dreary world. The music she heard in heaven was so beautiful that it made earthly music sound harsh and discordant. Why should Ernie be criticized for preferring the heavenly music he heard in his dreams, considering Ellen White expressed similar feelings after coming out of vision? Does Linda condemn Ellen White for desiring to have wings to “fly away and be at rest”? Linda’s agenda to discredit Ernie’s dreams is guided by Satan, because he does not want anyone to give up the wrong kind of music, especially in worship.

Bible never superseded

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“The Work Now Begins: ‘As for me not having a broad understanding of the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, the Herald says that I have a broader understanding than I might know and that because I am not ordained of man does not mean I am not ordained of God. The angel says that the Great Teacher has many ways of teaching other than what one can read in what He has written.’ This last sentence directly contradicts the following statement: ‘The Bible will never be superseded by miraculous manifestations. The truth must be studied, it must be searched for as hidden treasure. Wonderful illuminations will not be given aside from the Word or to take the place of it.’ 2SM 48 This clearly says that God will not bypass His Word.”

Fact
Ernie has never said his dreams supersede the Bible or the Spirit of Prophecy. The dreams continually lift up and quote the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy as the source of truth and wisdom. How did God teach His prophets of old? Through revelation. That is right that God will not bypass His Word, just as He did not bypass His Word in the dreams He gave to Ernie. If one reads the next page from where Linda quotes (Selected Messages, Vol. 2, p. 49), the context is connected with disregarding God’s law. Linda, please show us where Ernie’s dreams disregard God’s law?

God says:

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 302

Paul was an inspired apostle. The truths he taught to others he had received "by revelation;" yet the Lord did not directly reveal to him at all times just the condition of His people.

S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1106

Through Paul God has given many wonderful lessons for our instruction. In his visions Paul saw many things not lawful for a man to utter. But many other things which he saw in the heavenly courts were woven into his teachings. The truth flashed from his lips as a sharp, two-edged sword. The impressions made upon his mind by the Holy Spirit were strong and vivid, and they were presented to the people in a way that no one else could present them. Paul spoke in the demonstration of the Spirit and with power (Letter 105, 1901).

Ibid, p. 1107

Mysteries which had been hidden for ages were revealed to him [Paul], and as much as he could bear of the workings of God, and of His dealings with human minds, was made known. The Lord told Paul that he must preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Light was to be given to the Gentiles. This is a mystery which had been hidden for ages (ST Jan. 30, 1912).

Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 251

Heavenly angels shed their light around him. Here, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he wrote the book of Genesis. The long years spent amid the desert solitudes were rich in blessing, not alone to Moses and his people, but to the world in all succeeding ages.

The Great Controversy (1911), viii

In harmony with the word of God, His Spirit was to continue its work throughout the period of the gospel dispensation. During the ages while the Scriptures of both the Old and the New Testament were being given, the Holy Spirit did not cease to communicate light to individual minds, apart from the revelations to be embodied in the Sacred Canon. The Bible itself relates how, through the Holy Spirit, men received warning, reproof, counsel, and instruction, in matters in no way relating to the giving of the Scriptures. And mention is made of prophets in different ages, of whose utterances nothing is recorded. In like manner, after the close of the canon of the Scripture, the Holy Spirit was still to continue its work, to enlighten, warn, and comfort the children of God."

Steps to Christ, pp. 87, 93

God speaks to us through His providential workings and through the influence of His Spirit upon the heart. In our circumstances and surroundings, in the changes daily taking place around us, we may find precious lessons if our hearts are but open to discern them…

God speaks to us in His word. Here we have in clearer lines the revelation of His character, of His dealings with men, and the great work of redemption…

Through nature and revelation, through His providence, and by the influence of His Spirit, God speaks to us.

John 16:13-14

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

Ernie’s dream says:

The Work Now Begins, December 14, 2007

I tell him that I know Jesus does not make mistakes, but can He send these dreams instead to someone who is important and well versed in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy, someone who is better suited for this task...

As for me not having a broad understanding of the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, the Herald says that I have a broader understanding than I might know and that because I am not ordained of man does not mean I am not ordained of God…

Do you not know that He is the Great Teacher? When it is time you will share the things you know, along with what you are to share from the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy.

Summation
The apostle Paul was taught by divine revelation. Moses wrote the book of Genesis under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist was taught through nature, revelation and providence, just as Jesus was. Ellen White says that God can speak to us through a number of different ways.

Conclusion
Everything Ernie sees in his dreams must be tested by the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. But this does not mean that God cannot teach His prophets by divine revelation. Ellen White says that miraculous manifestations will not supersede the Bible. This means that the Bible stands in its correct place. All visions and dreams must be compared with the Bible, and previously proven revelations such as the Spirit of Prophecy. If we accepted Linda’s view, then all the prophets would have to be rejected. Why does Linda continue to exaggerate and take Gods words out of context?

The Word of God our only safe guide

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“If God was going to go against all His biblical principles in selecting you as His end-time messenger, and exalting you above all other humans on the earth as having the final Word from Him, how would we be able to know that? Based on your word? By miracles? By your emotional love for the being that has appeared before you? By “miraculous” feelings and impressions. None of these are safe guides. We are left with the option of standing by the God of the Bible, who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and the Spirit of Prophecy.”

Fact
How has God gone against all His biblical principles in selecting Ernie as an end-time messenger? This is Linda’s subjective idea of who God can and cannot use. We agree with Linda that our only option is to stand by the God of the Bible who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and the Spirit of Prophecy. We also know that Ernie’s dreams fit the description of His Word and the Spirit of Prophecy.

God says:

Isaiah 8:20

To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

The Desire of Ages, p. 276

Now when Jesus came mingling with the people, eating and drinking at their tables, they accused Him of being a glutton and a winebibber. The very ones who made this charge were themselves guilty. As God is misrepresented, and clothed by Satan with his own attributes, so the Lord's messengers were falsified by these wicked men.

The Pharisees would not consider that Jesus was eating with publicans and sinners in order to bring the light of heaven to those who sat in darkness. They would not see that every word dropped by the divine Teacher was a living seed that would germinate and bear fruit to the glory of God. They had determined not to accept the light; and although they had opposed the mission of the Baptist, they were now ready to court the friendship of his disciples, hoping to secure their co-operation against Jesus. They represented that Jesus was setting at nought the ancient traditions; and they contrasted the austere piety of the Baptist with the course of Jesus in feasting with publicans and sinners.

Ibid., p. 355

The servant is not above his master. The Prince of heaven was called Beelzebub, and His disciples will be misrepresented in like manner.

The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3, p. 61

They not only rejected Christ themselves but took the most unfair means to prejudice the people against him, deceiving them by false reports and gross misrepresentations. In all ages of the world truth has been unpopular; its doctrines are not congenial to the natural mind; for it searches the heart, and reproves its hidden sin. Those who persecute the advocates of God's truth have ever, like the Pharisees, misrepresented their words and motives.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 571

Many of them are inspired by Satan with insane madness against those who are keeping the commandments of God. We shall be maligned and misrepresented; all our motives and actions will be misjudged, and our characters will be attacked. The wrath of the dragon will be manifested in this manner. But I saw that we should not be in the least discouraged. Our strength is in Jesus, our Advocate. If in humility we trust in God and hold fast to His promises, He will give us grace and heavenly wisdom to withstand all the wiles of Satan and to come off victors.

Conclusion
What a shame that Linda has not followed her own counsel and stood firmly on the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy in her assessment of Ernie’s dreams. In pointing out that God would have to go against all that He has revealed if He chose Ernie as an end-time messenger, Linda provides no biblical support for this. Did she not read of Paul’s conversion? If God cannot use Ernie, how could He possibly have used Paul?

Love and endure

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“As you ended your video, your prayer for each one who viewed the video was stated as this: “And I know that my prayer would be that, if my prayer could be answered that every one that watches this and has read this dream, that you could see what I see when I look into the eyes of Jesus. There’s a love that we cannot describe, there’s no words, except just to say of the love of the love of the love.”

Ernie, do you really think it is in the wise plan of God to give each one of His children a vision of Jesus? And if we don’t have such a vision, should we feel that we aren’t special enough? This does not sound like the prayer of a prophet to me. A true prophet would encourage God’s people to endure, as seeing Him who is invisible, by faith. “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:” 1 Peter 1:8”

Fact
Linda’s interpretation of Ernie’s prayer for all to see the love in the eyes of Jesus is not correct. It was meant to be symbolic, not literal. Ernie did not mean that everyone must have a dream to see the love in the eyes of Jesus. He was simply praying that all could “see” Christ’s love with their mind’s eye (through faith), just as 1 Peter 1:8 tells us.

Linda states that a true prophet will encourage God’s people to endure. Ernie was shown this very thing in one of his dreams as follows.

In the Heart of Jesus, September 12, 2009

The Workman [the Holy Spirit] now picks up a sandstone that looks strong but is rough on the outside. He says, “Other stones do not hold up under pressure.” He squeezes it and it crumbles. . . . I ask Him if He is ready to begin His project now. He answers, “Oh, no. There is still a process that each stone must go through. . . . As He slowly moves the stone into the furnace, I see it turn bright. It stays together but pieces of impurity fall off and are consumed in the fire. I see imperfections disappear. . . . All the remaining stones go through the same process and now appear like most precious jewels of different colors. . . . As He places the jewels into the frame, He is creating the most beautiful piece of art. . . . Many want to be called, but very few can hold up to the pressure, the trying of the furnace. Many do not want to be reformed nor have their imperfections shown. God can select and use those who are worthy in His hands. . . . Many want to pretend they are great stones but are hollow on the inside. . . . Our Father is looking for only the genuine type that will not crumble under pressure, the type that are not pretending on the outside or trying to be something they are not. He is looking for the type that does not paint themselves to look how they want to be seen. After a thorough sifting and shaking, a thorough separation and selection, after each is placed in a furnace and had the imperfections and impurities removed, after each has allowed themselves to be molded or reshaped to fit, what is left is a scene of perfection and love.”

If Linda had been patient and endured, she would have read this dream and not had to make the statement that she did.

On the other hand, we cannot discount that others may have a dream or vision and see the love in the eyes of Jesus.

God says:

Acts 2:17

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.

1 Corinthians 14:1

Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.

Would Linda have a problem with Daniel who wrote the following?

Daniel 10:6

His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.

Was that Daniel’s way of describing the great love in the eyes of Jesus?

Would Linda have a problem with Ellen White who wrote the following description of Jesus from a dream?

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, p. 27

The loving eyes of Jesus were still upon me, and His smile filled my soul with gladness.

Conclusion
One has to wonder what would influence Linda to make the statement she did, especially regarding the great love in the eyes of Jesus. Again, was it fear, jealousy, pride or just listening to others’ ideas? Ernie’s prayer is still that God’s people, including Linda, will see that love in the eyes of Jesus, whether it is in the mind’s eye or through dreams and visions, and that they will endure to the end.

Steve Wohlberg and tithe

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“It was after speaking with Steve Wohlberg on the weekend retreat at Wawona Camp in Yosemite in March of this year that I realized the absolute danger of these dreams. Besides all the concerns I had listed above, the tithe issue was the clincher.

In a real practical way, I thought this out: Let’s say a pastor in our conference is mingling spiritualistic theories in his teaching. I express my concern to the conference president. Nothing is done, the teaching continues. I decide to give my tithe to you, Ernie, instead of to my conference, since you are “doing the Lord’s bidding” and I wouldn’t want to be responsible for supporting the pastor who was teaching spiritualism. What would happen to my own godly pastor’s salary if I withheld my tithe? What if all my friends did the same? What if half of the people in my conference did the same? Wouldn’t that be what the “Jesus” in your dreams would want us to do, so we wouldn’t support that spiritualistic pastor? So, what happens to my godly pastor whose salary comes from the same fund? He’s out of a job!

Multiply that scenario around the world, and what happens to the church? I think you get my point. However you interpret the Spirit of Prophecy statements about tithe, this teaching in the dream could only bring upheaval and confusion to the church.”

Fact
Was Linda supportive of the dreams until she spoke with Steve Wohlberg in March of 2008?

God says:

The Review and Herald, October 16, 1900

The eternal Father is waiting for us to take our eyes off finite man, and place our dependence on him. Then look not to man for your light and strength. Put not your trust in the arm of flesh.

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 170

Those who have not been in the habit of thinking and investigating for themselves, believe certain doctrines because their associates with them in the work believe them. They resist the truth without going to the Scriptures for themselves to learn what is truth. Because those in whom they have had confidence oppose the light, they oppose it, not knowing they are rejecting the counsel of God against themselves.

Our only safety is in testing everything by the Word of God. Those who rejected the 1888 message failed to follow this principle. According to Linda’s hypothetical situation, if half the Conference stopped supporting the Church with their tithes, perhaps the Conference would follow the example of Nehemiah.

Prophets and Kings, pp. 669-670

Solemnly and publicly the people of Judah had pledged themselves to obey the law of God. But when the influence of Ezra and Nehemiah was for a time withdrawn, there were many who departed from the Lord. Nehemiah had returned to Persia. During his absence from Jerusalem, evils crept in that threatened to pervert the nation. Idolaters not only gained a foothold in the city, but contaminated by their presence the very precincts of the temple. Through intermarriage, a friendship had been brought about between Eliashib the high priest and Tobiah the Ammonite, Israel's bitter enemy. As a result of this unhallowed alliance, Eliashib had permitted Tobiah to occupy an apartment connected with the temple, which heretofore had been used as a storeroom for tithes and offerings of the people.

Because of the cruelty and treachery of the Ammonites and Moabites toward Israel, God had declared through Moses that they should be forever shut out from the congregation of His people. See Deuteronomy 23:3-6. In defiance of this word, the high priest had cast out the offerings stored in the chamber of God's house, to make a place for this representative of a proscribed race. Greater contempt for God could not have been shown than to confer such a favor on this enemy of God and His truth.

On returning from Persia, Nehemiah learned of the bold profanation and took prompt measures to expel the intruder. "It grieved me sore," he declares; "therefore I cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber. Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the frankincense."

Not only had the temple been profaned, but the offerings had been misapplied. This had tended to discourage the liberalities of the people. They had lost their zeal and fervor, and were reluctant to pay their tithes. The treasuries of the Lord's house were poorly supplied; many of the singers and others employed in the temple service, not receiving sufficient support, had left the work of God to labor elsewhere.

Nehemiah set to work to correct these abuses. He gathered together those who had left the service of the Lord's house, "and set them in their place." This inspired the people with confidence, and all Judah brought "the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil." Men who "were counted faithful" were made "treasurers over the treasuries," "and their office was to distribute unto their brethren."

If the Conference failed to follow Nehemiah’s example, then according to Ellen White’s example, supporting godly ministers directly would be appropriate. We do not believe that godly pastors would be without a job, because there would either be godly people who would support them or they would find secular employment. God would provide, just as we see from the previous quote as follows: ". . . many of the singers and others employed in the temple service, not receiving sufficient support, had left the work of God to labor elsewhere." For further details on tithe, please refer to chapter 1.

2 Timothy 4:3

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.

The Review and Herald, August 11, 1903

In this time evil angels in the form of men will talk with those who know the truth. They will misinterpret and misconstrue the statements of the messengers of God.

The General Conference Bulletin, April 2, 1903

I know that we are our worst enemies when we listen to the suggestions of the enemy. Let us not allow the truth, the precious, sanctifying truth of God, to pass by without our laying hold upon it. We are to be sanctified by the truth. The Lord will help us if we will but humble our hearts before Him, and accept Him as our personal Saviour. Only the living, acting power of our Redeemer can save us from the wiles of the enemy.

Conclusion
As pointed out in chapter 1, God holds us accountable for supporting corruption if we are aware of it and do nothing to try to correct it. As Elijah was accused of being the one who had caused all of Israel’s troubles, so Linda does not have any problem accusing Ernie of bringing “upheaval and confusion to the church.” Perhaps we should be asking who is really bringing this trouble.

Betrayed a trust

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“At that time, I knew I could no longer be connected in any way with the 4HisPeople ministry. I told Steve Wohlberg the name of the person in the Much To Do dream. That was part of my disassociation from the dreams.”

Fact
As for Linda asserting that she was part of the 4 His People Ministry, she was not. The Herald's instruction invited Linda to edit “The SDA Church” dream, which was the extent of her involvement with the ministry.

For Linda to have betrayed a trust is not something a Christian would do.

God says:

Pastoral Ministry, p. 41

Should I, who am a Christian, a child of God; one called to be the light of the world, a preacher of righteousness; who have so often expressed my confidence in the truth and the way in which the Lord has led us, should I unite my influence with those who bitterly oppose the work of God? Should I, a steward of the mysteries of God, open to His worst enemies the counsels of His people? Would not such a course embolden the wicked in their opposition to the truth of God and to His covenant-keeping people? Would not such concession prevent me from opening my lips in exhortation, warning, or entreaty in my own family or in the church of God? If Paul or Peter were placed in similar circumstances, would he thus betray a sacred trust?--ST Jan. 3, 1884.

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 36

It was a betrayal of sacred trust to take that which Jesus designed should be kept secret, and publish it to others, and bring upon the cause of truth reproach and injury.

Gospel Workers (1892), pp. 443-444

Brethren sometimes associate together for years, and think they can trust those they know so well, just as they would trust members of their own family. There is a freedom and confidence in this association which could not exist among those not of the same faith. This is very pleasant while brotherly love continues; but let the "accuser of the brethren" gain admittance to the heart of one of these men, controlling the mind and the imagination, and jealousies are created, suspicion and envy are harbored; and he who supposed himself secure in the love and friendship of his brother, finds himself mistrusted, and his motives misjudged. The false brother forgets his own human frailties, forgets his obligation to think and speak no evil lest he dishonor God and wound Christ in the person of his saints; and every defect that can be thought of or imagined is commented upon unmercifully, and the character of a brother is represented as dark and questionable.

There is a betrayal of sacred trust. The things spoken in brotherly confidence are repeated and misrepresented; and every word, every action, however innocent and well-meaning, is scrutinized by the cold, jealous criticism of those who were thought too noble, too honorable, to take the least advantage of friendly association or brotherly trust. Hearts are closed to mercy, judgment, and the love of God; and the cold, sneering, contemptuous spirit which Satan manifests toward his victim is revealed.

Conclusion
Linda has revealed her true character. Judas revealed his character after he betrayed Jesus. Unless truly repented of, one who betrays a trust cannot be trusted.

False prophecy?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I determined to dig a little deeper and find out from Shawn Boonstra if he had received any impressions about your dreams, either from God or Satan. You’ve probably seen the statement from IIW that was made as a result of my inquiry. No matter what the angel tries to say about God’s timing, the prophecy, made Oct. 21, 2007 was made when you asked Jesus: “Is there someone I can be connected with so that these messages can go out faster? Jesus replies “Yes, I will connect you with Shawn Boonstra.”

Over six months later, Shawn Boonstra dictated the following statement: ‘A number of people have communicated with our office recently, asking about our official position on the dreams and visions of Mr. Ernie Knoll. More specifically, some have been asking if Shawn Boonstra has received any sort of confirmation from God that Mr. Knoll’s experience is genuine. At this point in time, Pastor Boonstra has had no such experience... To date, It Is Written has not come into possession of any information that suggests the claims of Mr. Knoll are genuine.’

The bottom line is, Jesus did not connect you with Shawn Boonstra so that the messages can go out faster. Even if he were to “connect” with you today, over six months after your appeal to help the dreams go out faster, it’s obvious that he didn’t help them go out faster! Anybody can see that. There is no question that this was a false prophecy.”

Fact
Instead of “digging a little deeper” to get someone’s impression, Linda should have dug deeper into God’s Word. Ernie was never given a date as to when Shawn Boonstra (of It Is Written) would support the dreams. God never said anything to Ernie about a quick fulfillment. However, this is what Linda assumed, without any evidence to support her belief. The part of “getting the dreams out faster” refers to once God fulfills the prophecy. God does not fulfill His promises as quickly as we would like, as can be seen in the 120-year wait for the Flood in Noah’s time and the fact that we are still waiting for Christ’s return ever since He made that promise about 2,000 years ago. Ellen White believed time was about to end and was even shown that people then living would be translated. However, the church did not follow God’s direction. As a result, the prediction did not happen. Nevertheless, that does not make her a false prophet. We must always go by the weight of evidence.

Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G. White, p. 321

But we were yet to pass through another severe trial. At the Conference a very solemn vision was given me. I saw that some of those present would be food for worms, some subjects for the seven last plagues, and some would be translated to Heaven at the second coming of Christ, without seeing death.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, pp. 675-676

Those who desire to doubt will have plenty of room. God does not propose to remove all occasion for unbelief. He gives evidence, which must be carefully investigated with a humble mind and a teachable spirit, and all should decide from the weight of evidence. God gives sufficient evidence for the candid mind to believe; but he who turns from the weight of evidence because there are a few things which he cannot make plain to his finite understanding will be left in the cold, chilling atmosphere of unbelief and questioning doubts, and will make shipwreck of faith.

It is possible that because Linda divulged the person’s name, that God’s will did not happen in His desired time. If man had and would cooperate with God’s will, we would see a different timetable. If the Israelites had obeyed God, they would not have wandered 40 years in the desert before entering the Promised Land. If Seventh-day Adventists had obeyed God, they would not have been here “many more years” as Ellen White predicted. If we cooperate with God, we can hasten Christ’s return. When God delays a promise, it does not necessarily mean He will not be fulfilling His promise. That applies to the prediction in Ernie’s dream as well.

God says:

Evangelism, pp. 696-697

We may have to remain here in this world because of insubordination many more years, as did the children of Israel; but for Christ's sake, His people should not add sin to sin by charging God with the consequence of their own wrong course of action.--Letter 184, 1901.

By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord's return.

It is the privilege of every Christian, not only to look for, but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain.--Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 22, 23

The Desire of Ages, p. 32

But like the stars in the vast circuit of their appointed path, God's purposes know no haste and no delay. . . . So in heaven's council the hour for the coming of Christ had been determined. When the great clock of time pointed to that hour, Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

Last Day Events, p. 38

It should be remembered that the promises and threatenings of God are alike conditional. [See Jeremiah 18:7-10; Jonah 3:4-10]

Prophets and Kings, p. 704

These promises were conditional on obedience.

Ernie’s dream says:

Testing the Spirits, May 12, 2008

You and others have been privately as well as in a group been praying as to why I have not sent you _____ _____ as I said I would in the dream called ‘Much to Do.’ We both know that you entrusted to a certain individual in confidence the name of _____ _____. In lack of faith this individual gave out the name. This person, who also has a problem with memory, has forgotten that a trust was given and that they were to be used as a witness. I so want My people to have faith. Will I not find faith but in a very few? I will send you _____ _____ but not until it is time by My watch. This individual is not ready. Be patient and wait for My voice so that I may speak in My time.”

Summary

• Helping the dreams to go out faster is also part of the timing factor.
  
• Linda determined how long we should have waited before the prophecy was fulfilled—only six months.
  
• God does not always fulfill promises quickly. Even though God delays a promise, it does not necessarily mean it will not happen.
  
• The promises and threatenings of God are conditional. God cannot go against man’s freedom of choice.
  
• Because of man’s disobedience, God does not always work His will as we expect or desire.
  
• If we remain “in Christ,” we can hasten His return.
  

Conclusion
God is telling us to have faith, to be patient and wait on His time and His way. “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Revelation 14:12. Are we to follow man’s or God’s timeline? “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11. Would Linda have boarded Noah’s ark, or would she have condemned him after six months of no rain?

Another false prophecy?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Another false prophecy was given on Aug. 14, 2007 in the dream Watch, As I Am Coming. The angels said to you regarding Doug Batchelor: ‘You both walk a road parallel and your roads will cross.’ You thought perhaps this prophecy may have been fulfilled shortly after that when you attended a church where Doug Batchelor was speaking, although there was no conversation between you. Regarding the parallel paths, his secretary, Bonnie Ensminger, stated to me on April 23, 2008 that Pastor Batchelor has refused, and continues to refuse to meet with you and talk with you, although there was an attempt to make an appointment with him. That doesn’t sound like parallel roads to me! He certainly is not in agreement with the road that you are on!”

Fact
When Ernie made the statement that Linda referred to, Ernie did not mean that Linda should take it seriously. He was simply repeating what Becky had whispered to him that day at the church (with a smile on her face). Neither one believes that was the fulfillment of the prediction.

Neither Ernie nor anyone in his ministry attempted to make an appointment with Doug Batchelor (of Amazing Facts). The person responsible for that was acquainted with both Doug and Ernie and because of plans to visit their area from out of state had attempted ahead of time to schedule a visit with Doug and Ernie.

Ernie and Becky know that the “parallel roads” refers to the fact that each ministry shares the same belief system. Their prayer regarding Doug Batchelor and Shawn Boonstra follows.

God says:

Habakkuk 2:3

For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Ezekiel 12:28

Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.

Conclusion
Linda again makes hasty assumptions and loses patience, thus causing more doubt as to the true source of Ernie’s dreams. Ernie and Becky look forward to the day when God’s people all unite in truth and are one in purpose to finish the work. It is time to go home!

Revival and changed lives

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“What about all the ‘miracles,’ the changed lives, the sweet fellowship and new friendships, and increased love for Jesus that the followers of the dreams seem to have experienced? How could Satan be doing all this? Listen: ‘Popular revivals are too often carried by appeals to the imagination, by exciting the emotions, by gratifying the love for what is new and startling. Converts thus gained have little desire to listen to Bible truth, little interest in the testimony of prophets and apostles. Unless a religious service has something of a sensational character, it has no attractions for them. A message which appeals to unimpassioned reason awakens no response. The plain warnings of God's word, relating directly to their eternal interests, are unheeded.’ {NL 9.2}”

“The fact that the spiritual awakening came as a result of an emotionally charged supernatural dream causes one to wonder: Would those whose lives have been changed by the hearing of your dreams have responded to a biblical message without the ‘appeals to the imagination, by exciting the emotions, by gratifying the love for what is new and startling’? And if not, then, have their lives really been changed for the better?”

“There seems to be a revival, but it is based on a shaky foundation. Just because there is a seeming revival at a new, startling, exciting message does not mean that it is of God. False revival look very close to true revivals.”

Fact
Satan can never increase our love for Jesus! The “followers” of the dreams did not seem to have experienced a closer walk with Jesus, they did. Anyone can see that fact from the For My People Ministry testimonials.

Referring to the quote referenced by Linda, there are good emotions and good imagination. If experiencing “heaven” here now means experiencing emotion and imagination, then so be it. There is a right way to use what God has created in us.

In addition, how do Ernie’s dreams gratify the love for what is new, startling, and exciting, when they simply illuminate the same truths already in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, with added details or allegories (parables)?

If Linda has a problem with what is new and exciting, does she have a problem with the announcement on her church’s website as follows? Has she gone to her pastor and complained about the “new and exciting ways”?

Spirit & Truth Radio Broadcast with Pastor Myers

Sunday Mornings on KPRL

Listen to Pastor Myers preach the word in new and exciting ways,

each Sunday Morning at 8:00 a.m. on KPRL 1230 AM.

Source: http://templetonhillschurch.com/upcoming_events

The followers of the dreams do not have “little desire to listen to Bible truth” or “little interest in the testimony of prophets and apostles,” because that is what the dreams are about. They are intensely studying the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy and reforming. Already someone made a website, wrote three books, and co-authored another—all using the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy to support the dreams. The followers are not interested in a “sensational character” but only the pure, unvarnished truth. They are not attracted to things of this world, only the world to come. Their focus is to cleanse themselves of all sin in order to be like Jesus in preparation for His imminent return and to share the truth with others. Those who believe the dreams do not focus on the opposition. Instead, they focus on what they can do for Jesus—through His power. They see the great love in His eyes, realize His sacrifice for them, and look forward to His return. With all this in mind, how can Ernie’s message “awaken no response”? How can it be that the “plain warnings of God’s word, relating directly to their eternal interests,” are unheeded?

God says:

The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, pp. 1250-1251

The baptism of the Holy Ghost as on the day of Pentecost will lead to a revival of true religion, and to the visitation of angels and the performance of many wonderful works. Heavenly intelligences will come among us, and men will speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Spirit of God. But should the Lord work upon men as he did on, and after the day of Pentecost, many who now claim to believe the truth, would know so very little of the operation of the Holy Spirit, that they would cry, "Beware of fanaticism." They would say of those who were filled with the Spirit, "These men are drunk with new wine." The time is not far off now when men will want a much closer relation to Christ, a much closer union with his Holy Spirit than ever they have had, or will have, unless they give up their will and their way, and submit to God's will and God's way. The great sin of those who profess to be Christians is that they do not open the heart to receive the Holy Spirit. When souls long after Christ, and seek to become one with him, then those who are content with the form of godliness, exclaim "Be careful, do not go to extremes." When the angels of heaven come among us, and work through human agents, there will be solid, substantial conversions, after the order of the conversions after the day of Pentecost. Now brethren, be careful and do not go into or try to create human excitement. But while we should be careful not to go into human excitement, we should not be among those who will raise inquiries, and cherish doubts in reference to the work of the Spirit of God; for there will be those who will question and criticize when the Spirit of God takes possession of men and women, because their own hearts are not moved; but are cold and unimpressible.

General Conference Daily Bulletin, April 13, 1891 [March 24, 1891 by Ellen White]

In the revival work that has been going forward here during the past winter we have seen no fanaticism. But I will tell you what I have seen. I have seen men who were so lifted up in themselves, and so stubborn, that their hearts were enshrouded in darkness. All the light that Heaven graciously sent them was interpreted to be darkness. When the enemy presents a device of his own, some are ready to accept that; but they have been so very cautious that they would not receive the light which would have made them wise unto salvation. The mission of God's servants was to open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God. The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, if received, would have illuminated the soul-temple, and driven out the buyers and sellers, the pride of opinion and the lust of the flesh. But there are some who have criticised and depreciated, and even stooped to ridicule, the messengers through whom the Lord has wrought in power.

Satan has always led his agents to misrepresent true revivals. When God pours out the latter rain upon those who are ready for it, unbelievers will also accuse them as well. Linda’s accusation that Ernie’s dreams are the result of Satan’s false revival is without biblical evidence. It is a matter of eternal salvation that Linda and her sympathizers follow the Bible counsel and not call good evil.

Isaiah 5:20

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

Regarding “an emotionally charged supernatural dream,” many said this about the great advent awakening in the 1840’s. Many believed Jesus was coming. The excitement at that time ran high. The message was new. However, did this make it wrong? No, it was part of God’s divine plan.

Matthew 7:20

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

The Review and Herald, June 19, 1900

Ye shall know them by their fruits." Do those who accuse God's children come under the head of "contrite ones"?--Instead, they show to the world, to angels, and to men, that they have chosen to stand under the banner of the prince of darkness, to swell the number of those who love and make a lie.

Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, p. 425

I have been deeply impressed by scenes that have recently passed before me in the night season. There seemed to be a great movement -- a work of revival -- going forward in many places. Our people were moving into line, responding to God's call. My brethren, the Lord is speaking to us. Shall we not heed His voice? Shall we not trim our lamps, and act like men who look for their Lord to come? The time is one that calls for light-bearing, for action.

Operation Global Rain
In case the reader has not heard of Operation Global Rain (OGR), it was a movement started at a local Seventh-day Adventist church that Linda attends. She accuses Ernie of creating a false revival. However, please read the following information and come to your own conclusion as to whether her church promoted a false revival. Following is advertising from their website in 2007.

Imagine (sound of thunder)

16 million Seventh-day Adventists worldwide,

all praying at the same time for the same thing.

Imagine. Operation: Global Rain. (sound of thunder) 6.27.07 to 7.07.07

http://www.operationglobalrain.com/home.html

Can we now apply the quote that Linda referenced in her letter to OGR? Can we say that their advertisement “appeals to the imagination, excites the emotions, and is new and startling? Is that why the “converts thus gained” through OGR “have little desire to listen to Bible truth, little interest in the testimony of prophets and apostles” such as Ernie? Since a local Seventh-day Adventist conference endorsed OGR, did that make many Adventists excited? Does this make it right? As you continue reading, we pray that you will come to the right conclusion.

Does OGR have their chronology wrong? Where is their focus on repentance and the early or former rain first?

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, pp. 506-507

Unless the early showers have done their work, the latter rain can bring no seed to perfection.

If we do not place ourselves in an attitude to receive both the former and the latter rain, we shall lose our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door.

Does not the following quote prove that the loud cry and latter rain come after the Sunday law, not before?

Evangelism, pp. 234-235

None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit sabbath, and the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast.

In the following statement, Ellen White says the latter rain will be falling and people will not even know it. This would mean that OGR is not a true revival, because they would be telling the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church when the latter rain begins.

The Review and Herald, March 2, 1897

Only those who are living up to the light they have, will receive greater light. Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.

Is OGR the false latter rain before the true?

Early Writings, p. 260

Satan deceives some with Spiritualism. He also comes as an angel of light and spreads his influence over the land by means of false reformations. The churches are elated, and consider that God is working marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit. The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before.

There is nothing in the Bible that advocates the following procedure done by OGR:

“I had all my elders (6) come forward. We knelt and I anointed all of them on their eyelids (this was explained from Rev. 3, that we might all see our true need, and be enabled to see what needed to be cleansed from our homes, etc.) I then prayed aloud for them.”

“Two of the Elders in turn anointed my eyelids and both prayed for me aloud.

“We continued this until all heads of household had been anointed on their eyelids.”

In reading Revelation 3:17-20, the eye salve comes from Jesus not the elders, and the key is to repent and ask Jesus to abide with us.

Does OGR promote the keeping of feast days?

"Sunset Friday, May 18, is the beginning of the Sixth Sabbath of the Seven Sabbaths towards Pentecost! The 43rd Day in the count of Omer. That was the same day Yeshua ascended to heaven as per Acts 1:9-10. Counting backwards to the first day that Yeshua was being seen you arrive at the Third Day of the week, or don’t you? That day began at sunset on a Monday, do you see?
Source:http://operationglobalrain.webdevdepot.net/wp/2007/05/08/perfect-timing-may-18-and-the-40-days-of-prayer/

With widespread apostasy in the Church, the latter rain cannot fall.

The Review and Herald, July 21, 1896

When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God. God cannot pour out His Spirit when selfishness and self-indulgence are so manifest; when a spirit prevails that, if put into words, would express that answer of Cain,-- "Am I my brother's keeper?"

For those who have not heard the presentation Ernie and Becky shared in their speaking engagements, here are portions from the ending on revival and repentance. As you read it, compare it with OGR and come to your own conclusion as to whether Ernie promotes a true revival.

S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 1184

“In this age, just prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven, God calls for men who will prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. Just such a work as that which John did, is to be carried on in these last days. The Lord is giving messages to His people, through the instruments He has chosen, and He would have all heed the admonitions and warnings He sends. The message preceding the public ministry of Christ was, ‘Repent publicans and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Our message is not to be one of peace and safety. As a people who believe in Christ's soon appearing, we have a definite message to bear,--‘Prepare to meet thy God.’ ”

What must we do to prepare? We must know what sin is. God’s word tells us what sin is. If we do not know, we cannot repent. Without repentance we can never have a genuine revival and reformation. Without revival and reformation we cannot have the latter rain. We must know the forgiveness, cleansing, justification, and power from God for victory over sin through the early rain. We must win the battle over self and sin. Without that belief and experience, it will be impossible for God to pour out His latter-rain power upon us.

Upward Look, p. 87

“When you have determined what reforms need to be carried out, labor with persevering, fearless courage to that end. Do not expect to carry out the pure, uplifting principles of true reform without meeting opposition. God's Word plainly teaches that all who will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution from those who seek to tear down what God declares to be truth and righteousness. . . . There is no action of our lives in which God is not concerned, no interest which is not precious in His sight. ‘Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world,’ He declares (Matt. 28:20). God is the shield and buckler of His people. He spreads His hands above His trusting children, and no one can wound a child of His without smiting the hand of God.”

This is not the time to be celebrating. The celebrating comes after Jesus takes us home. This is a time for repentance. He will save us from sin not in sin. If we continually seek God’s will, not our own, then we will continually have the victory over sin. Remember that temptation is not a sin, but giving in to temptation is sin.

If we fall, we must pick ourselves up and begin again, just as a child who is learning to walk. In this same way we learn to walk with Jesus.

God is reaching out to His people. He is waiting for us to die to self and sin. Then and only then can God revive us to spiritual life. Are we beholding Satan and his kingdom or Christ and His kingdom? The choice is ours. By beholding we become changed.

God longs for His character to be in each one of us. When this happens, God will have a people who will move the world in the power of the latter rain and the loud cry.

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 324

“It will cost us an effort to secure eternal life. It is only by long and persevering effort, sore discipline, and stern conflict, that we shall be overcomers.”

We, who are modern Israel, have been wandering in the desert too many years. We are now standing at the Jordan River. Jesus is about ready to return. Let’s cross that river and take possession of the Promised Land.

God is looking for those who have the faith of Abraham and the boldness of Daniel and his three friends. He is asking if He will find faith when He returns—the faith of a little child—for we are but His little children. He is looking for those who will give all for Him as He gave His all for us.

Today you have heard of the Lord’s great love for you. Will you not love Him in return by surrendering all to Him?

It is no wonder why Satan tried to and continues to try to destroy Ernie and Becky and their ministry. The enemy does not want anyone saved from their sins.

Why did OGR do the opposite of what God has said to do? Did they desire something new and exciting? How can one ask for the latter lain when they are not ready? Why pour clean water into a filthy pitcher? Our vessels need to be clean first. We must pray for the early rain before the latter rain, which comes after the national Sunday law.

God says:

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 507

The heart must be emptied of every defilement and cleansed for the indwelling of the Spirit.

Maranatha, p. 240

Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples.

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 506

Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain." "He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain." In the East the former rain falls at the sowing time. It is necessary in order that the seed may germinate. Under the influence of the fertilizing showers, the tender shoot springs up. The latter rain, falling near the close of the season, ripens the grain and prepares it for the sickle [the harvest at Christ’s Second Coming.]

Conclusion
The description of the characteristics of false revivals Linda quotes has no relevance to the effects Ernie’s dreams and presentations have.

1. Those who read the dreams are not lead to disregard the Bible. There is an increased love for it and a change of life toward preparing for Christ’s return.
   
2. Those who accept the dreams do not participate in sensational worship services. The dreams condemn this kind of worship.
   
3. The dreams emphasize the warnings of the Bible, leading the reader to experience true repentance, which is what true revivals do. If false revivals look very close to true revivals, how is Linda so sure that this revival is a false one? Where is her proof?
   

In the 1844 revival, not everyone who expected Jesus to return had truly repented. Nevertheless, this did not make that revival a false one. Out of that great movement, God raised up His last-day church. Ellen White became the most prolific writer God has ever called. Similarly, there will be people who do not truly repent after reading Ernie’s dreams. This does not mean the dreams are not from God any more than the Bible, as many who read it might choose to be lost. Jesus is asking, “Will I find faith?”

Righteousness by sight?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Ernie, I appeal to you to consider the foundation of your religious experience. The heart of our message is righteousness by faith. “For we walk by faith and not by sight.” Righteousness by faith, is the three angels messages in verity, in truth. Faith is trusting in God’s love and mercy, believing that His Word is true, and that He means what He says. Faith is based on that which is not seen. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

Ernie, the “righteousness” you obtained in your dream-conversion was righteousness by sight, the “love” you “felt” when you looked into the eyes of the arch anti-christ. This is what “converted” you, and it was a false conversion experience, based on emotion and not on faith. God could never accept this false conversion and then exalt you to be His mouthpiece to the people whom He has called to experience and proclaim the great message of righteousness by faith. You have never experienced righteousness by faith, only by sight.”

Fact
If it was all right for other prophets to see the eyes of Jesus, why is it wrong for Ernie? If he experienced a “false conversion” then we must conclude the same for Paul. The heart of Ernie’s message is righteousness by faith. It is only natural for someone who receives a dream or vision of heaven to want others to be able to see that same glory. Ellen White did the same. How often do people share emails that have touched their lives? They do this because they want others to share in the same blessing they have experienced. Ernie’s desire for people to be able to see the love of Jesus in no way proves he is spiritually ignorant. This should be what we desire for everyone, whether they are surrendered to Christ or not.

God says:

Matthew 7:1

Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

2 Peter 1:16

For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

Acts 9:1-6

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Numbers 12:8

With him Moses will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 17

For three years and a half the disciples were under the instruction of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. By personal contact and association, Christ trained them for His service. Day by day they walked and talked with Him, hearing His words of cheer to the weary and heavy-laden, and seeing the manifestation of His power in behalf of the sick and the afflicted. Sometimes He taught them, sitting among them on the mountainside; sometimes beside the sea or walking by the way, He revealed the mysteries of the kingdom of God. Wherever hearts were open to receive the divine message, He unfolded the truths of the way of salvation. He did not command the disciples to do this or that, but said, "Follow Me." On His journeys through country and cities, He took them with Him, that they might see how He taught the people. They traveled with Him from place to place. They shared His frugal fare, and like Him were sometimes hungry and often weary. On the crowded streets, by the lakeside, in the lonely desert, they were with Him. They saw Him in every phase of life.

The Desire of Ages, p. 439

Let the repenting sinner fix his eyes upon "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29); and by beholding, he becomes changed. His fear is turned to joy, his doubts to hope. Gratitude springs up. The stony heart is broken. A tide of love sweeps into the soul. Christ is in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life. When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to save the lost, slighted, scorned, derided, driven from city to city till His mission was accomplished; when we behold Him in Gethsemane, sweating great drops of blood, and on the cross dying in agony,--when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be recognized. Looking unto Jesus, we shall be ashamed of our coldness, our lethargy, our self-seeking.

We shall be willing to be anything or nothing, so that we may do heart service for the Master. We shall rejoice to bear the cross after Jesus, to endure trial, shame, or persecution for His dear sake.

Conclusion
Righteousness by faith has always been the way in which God saves His people. According to Linda, if Ernie received righteousness by sight, what do we do about all of God’s prophets? Moses spoke face-to-face with Christ. The disciples walked with Jesus for three and half years. Paul received visions of things that were not “lawful” for him to repeat. Ellen White received constant communication from heaven for over seventy years. Did they obtain righteousness by sight as well, after such wonderful revelations from God?

Ernie’s conversion a model?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“If your conversion experience is held up as a model to your followers, they would see that this is a strange, new religion, not the Christianity of the Bible, and certainly not the calling of the remnant church. Just this morning I read, ‘If we have not a deep experience in the things of God, if we have not a thorough knowledge of His Word, we shall be beguiled to our ruin by the errors and sophistries of the enemy.’ Mar. 95.”

Fact
Ernie has never held up his conversion experience as a model for anyone. In fact, Linda is the one who initiated it as an issue. However, she will have to reject Paul’s conversion, because according to her reasoning, it was “a strange, new religion, not the Christianity of the Bible.” Linda is quick to judge regarding Ernie’s conversion. How can she do that when only God can accurately read a person’s heart?

God says:

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 516

Human beings, themselves given to evil, are prone to deal untenderly with the tempted and the erring. They cannot read the heart; they know not its struggle and its pain.

Conclusion
Everyone’s conversion is different. No one should be a model for another. Is Linda willing to reject Paul’s conversion, because it might provide the wrong impression regarding true conversion? Linda’s facts do not line up.

No deep understanding of Bible?

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Ernie, because of your admitted lack of a deep understanding and knowledge of the Word, you have been beguiled, and you are spreading your error around the world.”

Fact
We are still waiting for someone to prove from God’s Word what error is in Ernie’s dreams. The error that actually needs fixing is the apostasy in the Church, starting at the top. God often calls the humble, unlearned, and teachable. These people are more receptive to God’s teaching. If we are honest with ourselves, we will see that Linda is the beguiled one who is spreading error around the world.

God says:

The Acts of the Apostles, p. 17

For the carrying on of His work, Christ did not choose the learning or eloquence of the Jewish Sanhedrin or the power of Rome. Passing by the self-righteous Jewish teachers, the Master Worker chose humble, unlearned men to proclaim the truths that were to move the world. These men He purposed to train and educate as the leaders of His church. They in turn were to educate others and send them out with the gospel message. That they might have success in their work they were to be given the power of the Holy Spirit. Not by human might or human wisdom was the gospel to be proclaimed, but by the power of God.

The Great Controversy (1911), p. 171

In the choice of instrumentalities for the reforming of the church, the same divine plan is seen as in that for the planting of the church. The heavenly Teacher passed by the great men of the earth, the titled and wealthy, who were accustomed to receive praise and homage as leaders of the people. They were so proud and self-confident in their boasted superiority that they could not be molded to sympathize with their fellow men and to become colaborers with the humble Man of Nazareth. To the unlearned, toiling fishermen of Galilee was the call addressed: "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19. These disciples were humble and teachable. The less they had been influenced by the false teaching of their time, the more successfully could Christ instruct and train them for His service. So in the days of the Great Reformation. The leading Reformers were men from humble life--men who were most free of any of their time from pride of rank and from the influence of bigotry and priestcraft. It is God's plan to employ humble instruments to accomplish great results. Then the glory will not be given to men, but to Him who works through them to will and to do of His own good pleasure.

Conclusion
When Ernie says in a humble way he does not know much, people accuse him of lacking a deep understanding of the Bible. If Ernie had said he knew a lot about the Bible, Linda would have condemned him for being proud. It is not necessarily a person of deep understanding of the Bible that God can use, but a humble willingness to rely upon Him. Jesus passed by the great educators of His day when He chose humble fishermen as His disciples. Who of Christ’s disciples would Linda have accused of not having a deep understanding of Christ? All of them or just the ones she liked and approved of? Sadly, it was not until Christ was no longer with His disciples that they began to deeply understand Him.

My eyes were opened

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I am grieved that I dishonored my Lord by falling for such a lie, and I praise Him for opening my eyes. I pray for all those who have believed your lies, that their eyes will be opened, and they will receive the love of the truth, so that God will not send them strong delusions, that they should believe a lie.”

Fact
God is not the only one who can open our eyes.

God says:

Genesis 3:7

And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 55

The serpent plucked the fruit of the forbidden tree and placed it in the hands of the half-reluctant Eve. Then he reminded her of her own words, that God had forbidden them to touch it, lest they die. She would receive no more harm from eating the fruit, he declared, than from touching it. Perceiving no evil results from what she had done, Eve grew bolder. When she "saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat." It was grateful to the taste, and as she ate, she seemed to feel a vivifying power, and imagined herself entering upon a higher state of existence. Without a fear she plucked and ate. And now, having herself transgressed, she became the agent of Satan in working the ruin of her husband. In a state of strange, unnatural excitement, with her hands filled with the forbidden fruit, she sought his presence, and related all that had occurred.

Conclusion
Who really opened Linda’s eyes? Let us remember the experience of Adam and Eve. Who opened their eyes?

Repent of your wickedness

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“Ernie, the Lord is calling to you to repent of your wickedness, and to turn to Him with all your heart, with deep contrition and sorrow for your sins. Surrender your entire will to Him, and let Him guide you in the necessary work of restoration. He wants you to strip off your pride, and allow Him lay your glory in the dust, so He alone can be exalted. He can do a great work in you if you are willing to be crucified with Christ. Praise God, there still is hope. Do not delay. “Cast off the works of darkness,” and “Christ shall give thee light.” “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Rom 13:12, Eph 5:14, James 4:7”

Fact
God is still purifying Ernie and Becky. They are in the process of restoration and reformation, which includes the asking of forgiveness for unconfessed sins that the Holy Spirit brings to their remembrance. They are striving to be victorious Christians through the power of Jesus. They pray, Linda, that you do the same.

The Review and Herald, March 21, 1878

The barren fig-tree received the withering curse of God because it was a pretentious hypocrite, professing superiority over the other fig-trees by displaying its luxuriant foliage, while it was as destitute of fruit as the leafless trees. The barren fig-tree well represents those who profess to keep the commandments, as did the Jews, thus presenting the appearance of fruitfulness, yet whose religion, like that of the Pharisees, is a sham, bearing no fruit to the glory of God.

Conclusion
We must make sure we are not doing what we are accusing someone else of doing. To illustrate, here are a few examples: when pointing a finger, three fingers point back; judge not lest you be judged; the beam in your eye, etc. Linda, have the “spiritual leaders” of your church counseled with you about your sin of discrediting Ernie’s dreams? If not, it is because they are “in the same boat” as you are. “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!” Matthew 23:13.

Renounce your dreams

Linda Kirk says: (see Appendix L)

“I urge you, I implore you, to take your dreams off of your web site, and replace them with a message renouncing your dreams, and the demonic beings in your dreams. How tragic if souls are lost because of their belief in your dreams! Redeem the time, and make quick work of restoring the truth to the hearts of these precious souls. And stop receiving the holy tithe that is dedicated to God’s work.”

Fact
Satan has always tried to have God’s people renounce the truth.

God says:

The Great Controversy (1911), p. 109

He was now delivered up to the secular authorities and led away to the place of execution. An immense procession followed, hundreds of men at arms, priests and bishops in their costly robes, and the inhabitants of Constance. When he had been fastened to the stake, and all was ready for the fire to be lighted, the martyr was once more exhorted to save himself by renouncing his errors. "What errors," said Huss, "shall I renounce? I know myself guilty of none. I call God to witness that all that I have written and preached has been with the view of rescuing souls from sin and perdition; and, therefore, most joyfully will I confirm with my blood that truth which I have written and preached."--Wylie, b. 3, ch. 7. When the flames kindled about him, he began to sing, "Jesus, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me," and so continued till his voice was silenced forever.

Ibid., pp. 135-136

As a matter of policy, the Romanists had decided to attempt to win Luther by an appearance of gentleness. The legate, in his interviews with him, professed great friendliness; but he demanded that Luther submit implicitly to the authority of the church, and yield every point without argument or question. He had not rightly estimated the character of the man with whom he had to deal. Luther, in reply, expressed his regard for the church, his desire for the truth, his readiness to answer all objections to what he had taught, and to submit his doctrines to the decision of certain leading universities. But at the same time he protested against the cardinal's course in requiring him to retract without having proved him in error.

The only response was: "Retract, retract!" The Reformer showed that his position was sustained by the Scriptures and firmly declared that he could not renounce the truth. The legate, unable to reply to Luther's arguments, overwhelmed him with a storm of reproaches, gibes, and flattery, interspersed with quotations from tradition and the sayings of the Fathers, granting the Reformer no opportunity to speak. Seeing that the conference, thus continued, would be utterly futile, Luther finally obtained a reluctant permission to present his answer in writing.

Ibid., p. 138

In defense, Luther urged that the legate or the pope show him his errors from the Scriptures, and pledged himself in the most solemn manner to renounce his doctrines if they could be shown to contradict the word of God. And he expressed his gratitude to God that he had been counted worthy to suffer in so holy a cause.

Ernie’s dream says:

If You Love Me, September 4, 2007

Then another angel says, "You need to go back and recant the things you have said. You did not understand what you were shown. You do not understand about the things you spoke of. . . .

Conclusion
By urging Ernie to renounce the dreams without providing any Scriptural proof that they are not of God, Linda is as guilty as those who persecuted the great reformers. How tragic if souls are lost because of their unbelief in the dreams! (see chapter 1 regarding tithe)

Chapter conclusion

It is clear that after reading Linda’s open letter, we are saddened to see many of Satan’s tactics used to discredit Ernie’s dreams. This includes:

1. Gossip (unsubstantiated rumors)
2. Slander
   
3. Character assassination
   
4. Untrue accusations
   
5. Subtle insinuations
   
6. Casting doubt
   
7. Judging
   
8. Deception

It is interesting to note that instead of following the plain Bible counsel on how to test a prophet, Linda makes up her own tests. Some examples are as follows.

1. Linda prayed for a sign to prove the dreams were of God. When the Pharisees asked for a sign, Jesus rebuked them saying that an adulterous generation seeks for a sign. Because God did not answer her prayer, this led her to question the dreams.
   
2. Linda did not believe it was possible for Ernie to ask questions in his dreams.
   
3. Linda felt it was impossible for God to choose someone who failed her man-made tests. She prefers to rely on who she feels would be appropriate for the job and focuses more on the messenger than the messages.
   
4. Because so few Bible students had accepted the dreams, she saw this as a cause for concern.

When she thought that Ernie failed these man-made tests, she questioned the source of the dreams. This led her to reject God’s messages, betray Ernie’s trust, and slander his character.

God says:

The Review and Herald, June 19, 1900

"Ye shall know them by their fruits." Do those who accuse God's children come under the head of "contrite ones"?--Instead, they show to the world, to angels, and to men, that they have chosen to stand under the banner of the prince of darkness, to swell the number of those who love and make a lie.

Counsels for the Church, p. 93

Satan has ability to suggest doubts and to devise objections to the pointed testimony that God sends, and many think it a virtue, a mark of intelligence in them, to be unbelieving and to question and quibble. Those who desire to doubt will have plenty of room. God does not propose to remove all occasion for unbelief. He gives evidence, which must be carefully investigated with a humble mind and a teachable spirit, and all should decide from the weight of evidence. God gives sufficient evidence for the candid mind to believe; but he who turns from the weight of evidence because there are a few things which he cannot make plain to his finite understanding will be left in the cold, chilling atmosphere of unbelief and questioning doubts, and will make shipwreck of faith.

Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years, p. 123

All false statements made will appear just as they are, for it is against Christ that they do this evil, working on the enemy's side. They are poor, deceived souls, but they choose the darkness when they might have the light. They are those who are learning their lessons from the fallen apostate and they have eyes, but they will not acknowledge the evidence. They have ears to hear, but will report the very opposite of the truth which they hear, turning it to falsehood. There is not any dependence to be placed in the words they speak.

Final appeal to Linda
Linda, your open letter has caused many, who once believed in the dreams and were reforming, to walk away as they read the deceptive information you sent out. It even influenced those who did not yet have a chance to study the dreams for themselves. It persuaded those of influence, such as Vance Ferrell (see chapter 6) to discredit the dreams. As you requested of Ernie to repent and recant, we now ask that of you. If you do not, God has warned that you will give an account for what you have said. Realize the serious necessity of this so that God will not have to hold you personally accountable for the accusations you made that caused God’s people to doubt His messages.

Linda, you have done great harm to the work of God. You have spread lies against God’s chosen messenger, betrayed a sacred trust, and twisted the truth. In attacking the messenger, you have attacked your Savior. You asked Ernie if he would be willing to lay down his reputation for God. He has done that many times over. Now, we are asking if you will do that. Please read the following again.

Repent, as I Am Coming, November 12, 2008

The Herald then says, “You did not err when sending your letter to Linda Kirk, as the Spirit of God worked with you. She did not attack the messages you have been given but you as the messenger. She sent her comments and Satan used many to convey her twisted misconceptions of you. Being led by the controlling hand of Satan, she caused doubt and unbelief. The comments she made were read and believed by many. The souls that are lost are on her hands and God will hold her personally accountable. She will receive the weight of the sins of those who fell away, unless she approaches the merciful throne of God and openly confesses to all of her wrongs. She needs to ask if it is better to save her earthly name and character on this earth or repent and receive a new name from God. Right now God has turned His face from her and His countenance no longer shines upon her.

Linda, the Lord loves you but does not love what you have done. Please do not disappoint Him. Please do not let the following words apply to you. Time is running out.

God says:

Matthew 25:40

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.